Your Local’s Guide to the Most Scenic Sonoma Wineries
When you live in Sonoma County, your family and friends suddenly start planning their vacations around you. And honestly? Can you blame them? Between the redwood forests, rolling vineyard views, and delicious wines, it’s no wonder this wine country destination tops so many travel wish lists.
So when my aunt and cousin planned a springtime trip to Healdsburg, I found myself doing a little local recon. I wanted to find wineries that felt special but still relaxed, scenic but not stuffy. While they enjoyed wine, they weren’t “wine people” (whatever that means): they just wanted to have come to Sonoma County and have a good time.
Whether you want to sip exceptional Pinot Noir under string lights, or visit some of the best scenic Sonoma wineries (according to wine critics), this quick list has you covered.
Iron Horse Vineyards
Iron Horse Vineyards is the only winery in Sonoma County entirely dedicated to sparkling wine—and what a gem it is. Nestled in the Green Valley AVA of Sebastopol, this family-owned winery produces some of the best bubbles in California, all from estate-grown, certified sustainable grapes.
If you’re visiting Healdsburg for a celebratory trip (birthday, bachelorette party, anniversary, or just a well-deserved getaway), there’s no better way to kick off your tasting weekend than with a toast at Iron Horse.
With sweeping vineyard views and crisp, cool-climate sparkling wines, it’s hard not to feel festive here.
Pro Tip: Head to The Barlow in Sebastopol for lunch afterward. You’ll find great local eats, cute boutiques, and maybe even another glass of wine (or two).
LOCATION
9786 Ross Station Rd
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Comunita Wines
(Tasting room inside Overshine Wines)
Comunita Wines checks all the boxes: organic wines, a playful and stylish tasting room, and a one-of-a-kind Alpine food pairing experience. Comunita wine tastings take place at the Overshine Wines tasting room on Westside Road, and the views from the patio are some of the prettiest in Sonoma County.
The Alpine Food Pairing includes a vintage-style raclette where you can melt imported cheeses and enjoy them with artisan hams, crisp tater tots, and seasonal accompaniments. (Yes, it’s just as mouth-watering as it sounds.)
Pro Tip: Don’t miss their Ramato, a copper-hued Pinot Gris made in the traditional Friulian style. It’s like rosé’s cooler cousin—dry, textured, and super food-friendly.
LOCATION
7383 Westside Rd
Healdsburg, CA 95448
Reeve Wines
Elegant wines, a peaceful patio, and wood-fired pizza? Yes, please. Reeve Wines offers a dreamy escape in Dry Creek Valley. The tasting room is modern yet cozy, with views of the surrounding vines and oak trees. Bulb lights hang between branches, adding just the right amount of rustic charm.
Here, you’ll find Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, plus small-lot bottlings from Mendocino and Anderson Valley. The tasting menu also occasionally includes unexpected gems like Riesling, Gamay, and Vermentino.
Pro Tip: Ask your host if they’re pouring anything off-menu—they often have a surprise bottle or two behind the bar for curious palates.
LOCATION
4551 Dry Creek Rd
Healdsburg, CA 95448
Preston Farm & Winery
Preston Farm & Winery is one of the most beloved spots in Dry Creek Valley. This organic and biodynamic estate is not just a winery; it’s a working farm. Expect to see chickens roaming, kids playing in the grass, and happy dogs lounging in the shade.
Come for the laid-back vibes and stay for the wine. Preston is known for varietals like Carignane, a chillable red that’s ideal for summer sipping. Their outdoor patio feels like an extension of a friend’s backyard, complete with picnic tables, garden views, and a general sense of calm.
Pro Tip: Visit in the fall to check out their U-pick pumpkins, or pick up some fresh eggs, sourdough bread, and just-harvested produce while you’re there.
LOCATION
9282 W Dry Creek Rd
Healdsburg, CA 95448
Lynmar Estate
Lynmar Estate is one of the most beautiful wineries in Sonoma. Though I didn’t make it there on this trip, it came highly recommended by friends in the industry—and it’s easy to see why. Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Lynmar is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, sweeping vineyard views, and standout Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Their estate experience is as much about the setting as the wines, with tastings that take place in their flower-filled gardens or spacious patio. It’s one of the most photogenic wineries in Sonoma, and the wines are just as memorable.
Pro Tip: Book the Estate Tasting with Food Pairing if you’re celebrating something special. It’s a splurge-worthy experience that wine lovers won’t forget.
LOCATION
3909 Frei Rd
Sebastopol, CA 95472
Tips for Visiting Sonoma Wineries
Planning a wine tasting weekend in Sonoma? Here are a few tips to help make your visit a breeze.
- The one question I get asked over and over when friends and family visit: what do I wear to a winery? Sonoma County is more relaxed than Napa, and many ladies go for sun dresses AKA wine country dresses (any length), wedges, flats, sandals, or boots (depending on the season), and sun hats in the summer – especially if you’re sitting on the patio.
- Make reservations ahead of time. While it may be tempting to fly by the seat of your pants on your vacation, many of the best Sonoma wineries now require advance bookings, especially on weekends.
- Plan your day and your route. Healdsburg and Sebastopol are between 20 and 25 minutes apart – and the vineyard views on that drive are lovely. Pick 2–3 wineries close to each other, and build in time for a long lunch in a downtown Healdsburg restaurant or a spot in Sebastopol.
FAQ
How many wineries are in Sonoma County?
Sonoma County is home to over 425 wineries, ranging from small family-owned vineyards to internationally acclaimed estates. While many visitors flock to big names, some of the best Sonoma wineries are the tucked-away gems you discover down a country road or recommended by a local.
When is the best time to go wine tasting in Sonoma County?
There’s truly no bad time to visit Sonoma, but spring and fall are especially magical. In spring, everything is lush and blooming. In fall (aka harvest season), you’ll see grapes being picked and wineries buzzing with activity. Summer brings long, sunny days—perfect for patio tastings—while winter is quieter and cozy, great for fireside Pinot Noir. Just keep in mind, winters can be rainy.
Where is Sonoma County?
Sonoma County is located in Northern California, about an hour north of San Francisco. It spans from the Pacific Coast to the Mayacamas Mountains and includes charming towns like Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Sonoma, Glen Ellen, and Forestville. It’s part of California wine country but has a more laid-back, rustic vibe compared to its neighbor Napa Valley. Side note: I personally prefer Sonoma County for this very reason.