0526 WCTM

• 5 0th Anniversary –Judgment of Paris • Ledson Winery • Robert Mondavi Winery • Petit Soleil Napa • VJB Cellars

THE PEAK OF NAPA

An Elevated Napa Valley Tradition

Board the signature Gondola at Sterling Vineyards and float above the vines to one of Napa Valley’s most iconic hilltop wineries. Incredible views, unforgettable wines, and a ride you’ll want to take again.

Award-Winning Tour & Tasting Experiences

The Founder’s Experience – A world-class food and wine pairing with our most coveted winery exclusive wines.

Hilltop Experience –Taste a selection of five winery-exclusive wines paired with local cheese and charcuterie. This experience is a unique opportunity to taste the best Sterling Vineyards has to offer. All experiences include a round-trip gondola ride to and from our hilltop winery.

We can’t wait to share our exceptional wines and breathtaking Napa Valley views from our Sterling Aerial Gondola with you!

YOUR PERFECT NAPA VALLEY DAY AWAITS

WHAT’S INSIDE

On The Cover: BERINGER VINEYARDS

Still Going Strong at 150 Years

Tastings at Beringer Vineyards unfold within the winery’s original stone cellars or the stately Rhine House, both remarkably preserved since the 19th century, inviting guests to experience the past not as a story, but as a setting.

THE DAY CALIFORNIA SHOCKED THE WINE WORLD

What began as a simple blind tasting became a seismic moment in wine history, forever altering perceptions of California wine. In 1776, a fledgling nation declared its independence. Two hundred years later, in 1976, another kind of declaration quietly unfolded …

MAY 2026 ISSUE 5 | VOLUME 45

1 0 | BERINGER VINEYARDS Still Going Strong at 150 Years

| J UDGMENT OF PARIS 50th Anniversary 1 8 | THE BELMONTE FAMILY Rockpile Bourbon Unveiled 2 0 | ROBERT MONDAVI WINERY Landmark Reopens for a New Era 22 | N EW WEST KNIFEWORKS Kitchen Swagger Starts with the Right 24 | P RIEST RANCH TASTING ROOM A Taste of Napa, Reinvented

| PETIT SOLEIL

Sunny Side Up

| LEDSON WINERY The Stuff of Dreams 3 0 | B ROADWAY UNDER THE STARS 15th Anniversary Summer Season 32 | ‘POUR + EXPLORE’ Four Sonoma County Appellations Featured 3 4 | L AKE COUNTY WINEFEST June 13, Lakeport 3 6 | HEALDSBURG WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE World-Class Wine & Culinary Celebration 3 8 | M USIC IN PLACE Miles Davis Centennial Celebration 3 9 | YOUNTVILLE ART, SIP & STROLL May 16 5 4 | LAKE COUNTY Interscholastic Cycling League Races Continue

6 | SONOMA VALLEY Springtime Sipping in Sonoma

8 | SONOMA PLAZA Taste Elegant, Site-Driven Wines from Platt Vineyard

ONE FAMILY’S PASSION …

ESTATE GROWN FRENCH VARIETALS AND 125 YEAR OLD ZINFANDEL

Walk-ins welcome. Reservations recommended.

11600 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen • 707-934-8604

ESTATE GROWN ITALIAN VARIETALS

Come and enjoy our award-winning wines, delicious wood-fired pizza, full-service Italian deli, marketplace, gelato and so much more! 60 Shaw Ave, Kenwood • 707-833-2300

KENWOOD RANCH

A WINE COUNTRY WEDDING VENUE

The perfect setting for celebrating any of life’s beautiful moments. Sonoma Highway, Kenwood • 707-833-2300 kenwoodranchevents.com

WHAT’S INSIDE

SINCE 1981

PO BOX 92, EL VERANO, CA 95433

707-938-1783

www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

TASTE

OWNER/PUBLISHER

Chandra Grant

Chandra@WineCountryThisMonth.com

707-938-1783

SUBSCRIPTIONS

ANNUAL: $60 per year : : SINGLE COPY: $5

Send check to Visit Wine Country LLC PO Box 92, El Verano CA 95433

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Jillian Baker

Barbara Barrielle

Allan Cates

Jennifer Dadesho

Ronda Giangreco

Yvonne Horn

Laura Ness

Monty Preiser

Jody Purdom

Layne Randolph

Tanya Seibold

Donald Sonderling

Melissa Vogt

ADVERTISING

Napa Valley > RoseAnn Trzesniewski rmtrue@comcast.net 707-334-1930

Sonoma Valley & Carneros > Cathi Wastal cathi.wastal@gmail.com 707-815-4070

Sonoma County > Allan Cates

Allan@WineCountryThisMonth.com 707-331-6204

Lake County > Jim Cates jim_wctm@yahoo.com 707-695-9550

www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

Step Into History at BERINGER VINEYARDS

Still Going Strong at 150 Years

BY LAURA NESS

Tastings at Beringer Vineyards unfold within the winery’s original stone cellars or the stately Rhine House, both remarkably preserved since the 19th century, inviting guests to experience the past not as a story, but as a setting.

“The beauty of visiting Beringer is that it really is like stepping into a piece of Napa Valley history,” says Claire Wilkins, Director of Hospitality at Beringer Vineyards.

How cool is it to know you are literally tasting the same kind of wines that founder Jacob Beringer began making back in 1876, in the very place he made them? In fact, the entire Beringer estate property is listed on the National Historic Register.

German Ingenuity and Napa Valley Vision

Celebrating 150 years of continual operation as one of Napa’s oldest wineries in 2026, Beringer takes pride in upholding the strong traditions that have made it an enduring and beloved brand. Today, the wines are still made with the same care and intention as they always have been, from the time two German immigrants decided to plant roots and vines in the storied soils of Napa Valley.

Brothers Jacob and Frederick Beringer, who grew up in Mainz, Germany, left their motherland for the promise of a better life in America, as so many still yearn to do. Frederick left in 1850 for New York City, where he thrived. Jacob came later, in 1868, after working for a cooper and then a winery near Berlin. Not enamored of New York, he headed for California, where

he became a cellar hand at Charles Krug, the first commercial Napa winery. After working there for a few years, in 1875, Jacob convinced Frederick to head west. Together, they purchased the neighboring property, blessed with rocky and well-drained soils: perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon.

Jacob situated the winery on a steep hill to facilitate gravityflow winemaking. Draft horses hauled grapes to the top floor for processing. He also built caves for temperature control, common in Europe and a necessity in the Mediterranean climate of Napa.

Wine quality was first and foremost, but Beringer would set another milestone in 1934, when their winemaker of the era, Fred Abruzzini, decided to do some direct marketing to the residents and visitors in the city of San Francisco. He handed out flyers at the Ferry Building, inviting people to come visit Napa, and soon, visiting Napa became the thing to do. All the Hollywood A-listers of the time made Napa a destination, Clark Gable among them, and they first went to Beringer.

Rhine House: Napa’s Fairytale Destination

It didn’t hurt that the Rhine House, completed by architect Albert Schroepfer in 1884 as Frederick’s 17-room home, looked just like a castle on the Rhine in Germany. Long before Disney popularized a fairytale castle as part of its Magic Kingdom, this place beckoned visitors to indulge in fantasy and share in the glamour.

Restored to perfection in 2009, this elaborate mansion, with 40 stained glass windows, makes for a delightful escape from the ordinary and the modern, an ideal setting for enjoying wines still made the old-fashioned way.

Continued next page

Precision Harvesting Defines Every Vintage

Today, Beringer yearly produces a Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($150) and a Private Reserve Chardonnay ($50), which can be found on many restaurant wine lists. A Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Knights Valley Reserve Red Blend are distributed nationwide, available at major wine shops. The winery also makes an estate-only Knights Valley Mountain Rosé and Knights Valley Alluvium Blanc, a white blend.

The Knights Valley property, located in the northeastern corner of Sonoma County and nestled in the Mayacamas foothills, was purchased in the 1960s. One of the rare unspoiled places of limitless beauty in Northern California, it has become a staple of the Beringer portfolio with its flavor complexity, and distinct aromas of lavender, boysenberry, and thyme. Beringer is the largest producer of Knights Valley wines, and helped establish the AVA in 1983.

We asked Director of Winemaking, Margo Van Staaveren, who got her start at Chateau St. Jean, what is the most important decision she makes every vintage.

Her answer: “Picking decision. Once it comes off the vine, it doesn’t get better.”

With a hugely diverse portfolio of prized vineyards across many appellations, from the highest hills in Napa Valley to the valley floor behind the historic winery, each location has its own distinctive soil, climate and terrain. That means many, many

picking decisions go into each edition of Private Reserve, first made in 1977 by then winemaking legend, Myron Nightingale, and his young assistant, Edward Sbragia, who would spend 32 years as Beringer’s winemaker.

Van Staaveren says that the 31-acre Chabot Vineyard in St. Helena became the first to be bottled by Beringer as Private Reserve, and it remains a critical part of the blend today. Typically among the earlier sites picked each harvest, she says the obsidian-laden soils here produce Cabernets that are deep in color, rich in flavor, with a suggestion of mint.

“In contrast, our vineyards on Howell Mountain are some of the last to come in,” says Van Staaveren. “Vineyards like our Bancroft Ranch, which is a beautiful, mountainous vineyard that covers 89 acres of nutrientpoor, rocky soils at 1,800 feet, tend to produce intense Cabernet Sauvignon.”

With all these vineyards spanning 8 different Napa subAVAs, we wondered what Van Staavern’s idea is of the quintessential Private Reserve Cabernet, and what she is looking for when crafting that wine.

“Our goal is to showcase each vineyard in the finest way,” says Van Staaveren. “Great wines are ones that are most responsive to great vineyards. Some vineyards want to be big bold wines, and some want to have more elegance and restraint. By listening to the vineyard and the season we draw that line from wine to wine. With the Private Reserve Cabernet, we are then looking to take the very best from each site and blend them to create what we feel is the finest expression of the Napa Valley that vintage.”

Celebrating 150 Years of Innovation

In celebration of the winery’s 150th anniversary, a dedicated Knights Valley tasting experience, featuring single-parcel expressions of Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, will be rolled out this summer in the St. Helena tasting room.

Among other ways that Beringer Vineyards will be celebrating their 150th anniversary include historic tours and culinary experiences, comedy nights and a very special 150th anniversary party in September. Coincidentally, the town of St. Helena also celebrates its 150th in 2026.

“We’re lucky that the original vision of the estate was one that was very forward-thinking and founded in an entrepreneurial and pioneering spirit,” says Claire Wilkins, Director of Hospitality at Beringer Vineyards.

“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and we are always looking for ways to improve both in the cellar and in our hospitality. Every moment spent here speaks to the artistry and resilience that define Beringer.”

Take a little of that 150-year-old resilience with you, in a bottle and also in a series of amazing commemorative items, created just for this milestone occasion. And let’s raise a glass to the hard work and vision of a couple of immigrants whose dream helped establish the most widely recognized AVA in the wine world.

Experience the Legacy of Beringer

May 9: Lunch in the Vineyard: Celebrating 150 years at St. Helena Home Vineyard

May 15-16: Beringer at Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience

June 27-September 19: Music through the Decades –Live Music Weekends at the Estate

· S eptember 26: 150th Anniversary Celebration and 2023 Private Reserve Release at the Estate

October 10: Lunch in the Vineyard & Winemaker Tasting: A Celebration of Knights Valley

November 25: Downtown St. Helena Beringer Barrel Tree Lighting Ceremony

December 6: Holiday Party and burying of the Beringer 2026 Time Capsule at the Estate

Watch the website for more events to come, beringer.com.

Tasting Experiences

T he Estate Tour & Tasting – Enjoy a walking tour through the vineyards, explore the hand-dug caves, and step into the grandeur of the 1884 Rhine House. In a private room, savor a seated tasting of distinguished single-vineyard wines. More than a tasting, it’s an immersion into nearly 150 years of innovation, craftsmanship, and world-class winemaking.

• T he Collectors’ Experience – Beringer has curated a special tasting exclusively showcasing rare library vintages of the iconic Napa Valley Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon for the dedicated wine collector. The presentation also includes the pinnacle of the portfolio, the Eighth Maker Cabernet Sauvignon, highly regarded and extremely limited. Privately hosted in the historical Rhine House.

• Taste of Beringer Tour – Explore the sensory gardens, then relax in the historic Rhine House for a seated tasting. Savor a locally sourced menu meticulously crafted by the estate’s culinary team, designed to excite your palate and spark curiosity as you discover how the unique flavors of wine and food come together in perfect harmony.

• Old Winery Tour & Tasting – Enjoy an opportunity to taste the portfolio of winery-exclusive wines. Begin your experience with a guided historical tour of the wine caves, continuing to a seated tasting experience in the historic old winery. Immerse yourself in the 150-year history as you taste in the original setting where the Beringer brothers produced their first vintages. Each of the 5 wines showcases a vineyard, variety, or growing region.

• Beringer Backyard Social – Perfect for groups of 7 or more, this laid back yet elevated offering includes reserved seating in the scenic backyard, exclusive access to the bocce court and a deluxe charcuterie board. Enjoy one bottle of wine for every four guests, with selections made upon arrival from a specially curated list of red and white wines. While this is a self-guided experience, it’s crafted for effortless fun and connection.

THE DAY CALIFORNIA SHOCKED THE WINE WORLD

What began as a simple blind tasting became a seismic moment in wine history, forever altering perceptions of California wine.

DON SONDERLING

In 1776, a fledgling nation declared its independence. Two hundred years later, in 1976, another kind of declaration quietly unfolded — this time at the InterContinental Hotel in Paris, where the old world would be challenged by the new. Now, in 2026, we raise a glass to the 50th anniversary of that moment, the day California wines stepped onto the global stage and never looked back.

A Moment That Changed Wine Forever

May 24th, 1976, was a pivotal day in the world of wine. It marked the day of the 1976 Paris Wine Tasting, famously known as “The Judgment of Paris.” It was also a day, 200 years after the founding of our country (which would never have been possible without the support of the French), when a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley both ranked higher than top French wines in a highly anticipated blind tasting competition. This day demonstrated that California, especially Napa Valley, was capable of producing worldclass wines on par with the very best French wines.

The Results That Shocked the World

Twenty wines competed in the event: 12 from California and 8 from France, including some of the most renowned French wineries such as Chateau Mouton Rothschild (red wine category) and PulignyMontrachet (Chardonnay). When the judging concluded, the results shocked the wine world: California wines dominated the competition and proved that New World wines could match the best French wines. Not only did California take the top spot in both the Red and White wine categories, but it also secured 6 of the top 10 finishes in each.

A Chardonnay Heard ’Round the World

In the white wine category, the 1973 Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena took first place. Crafted by winemaker Mike Grgich, the wine was notable not only for its elegance and balance, but also for its origins — its grapes sourced largely from Sonoma County vineyards. It was a collaborative expression of Northern California terroir, and it captivated the judges.

Other standout performances in the Chardonnay category included Chalone Vineyard, which placed third with its 1974 vintage, and Spring Mountain Vineyard, whose 1973 Miravalle Ranch bottling earned fourth place. Freemark Abbey — a historic Napa estate — secured sixth, while David Bruce Winery rounded out the top ten.

Cabernet Claims the Crown

The white wines surprised the judges, but the red wines made history.

The 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars claimed first place, a bold and structured wine crafted by Warren Winiarski. In a field that included some of Bordeaux’s most revered names, this relatively young Napa winery triumphed. The wine itself contained a mere 1% Pinot Noir — an unusual detail that adds to its legend.

Other notable California reds included Ridge Vineyards’ Monte Bello, placing fifth, and Mayacamas Vineyards, which secured seventh. Clos du Val, Heitz Cellar and Veedercrest Vineyards also placed in the top ten, reinforcing the depth and diversity of California winemaking.

Legacy Producers and Lasting Impact

One winery stood out for a different reason: Freemark Abbey was the only producer to place in both the red and white categories — a testament to its versatility and legacy. Founded in 1886 by Josephine Tychson, it also carries the distinction of being one of the first woman-founded wineries in the United States.

Behind the scenes, another influential thread connected many of the winners: Robert Mondavi Winery. Both Grgich and Winiarski had honed their craft there in the late 1960s, part of a new wave of American winemakers committed to innovation, precision, and global ambition. Their success in Paris was not accidental — it was the culmination of a vision that had been quietly fermenting for years.

Fifty Years Later: A Lasting Legacy

Fifty years later, the legacy of the Judgment of Paris endures — not just in the bottles, but in the confidence it instilled. California wines have continued to evolve, refine, and expand, earning respect across the globe. Napa Valley is no longer an underdog; it is a benchmark.

To commemorate the 50th anniversary, the invitation is simple: open a bottle of California Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon, pour a glass, and take a moment to savor history … because what happened in Paris wasn’t just a victory – it was a turning point.

TASTE THE LEGACY

While a select group of wineries took center stage in that fateful blind tasting, many others were deeply connected to the moment.

Participating Wineries

• Chateau Montelena 1429 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga 707-942-5105

• Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 5766 Silverado Trail, Napa 707-261-6410

• Chalone Vineyard Ocean Avenue & Mission Street, Carmel-By-The-Sea 831-223-0120

• S pring Mountain Vineyard 2805 Spring Mountain Road, St. Helena, 707-967-4186

• Ridge Vineyard

650 Lytton Springs Road, H ealdsburg, 707-433-7721

1 7100 Montebello Road, Cupertino, 408-868-1320

3 340 Ramada Drive, Paso Robles, 805-840-2414

• Mayacamas Vineyards 1155 Lokoya Road, Napa 707-224-4030

• Clos du Val 5330 Silverado Trail, Napa 707-261-5212

• Heitz Cellar 436 St. Helena Hwy, St. Helena 707-963-2047

• D avid Bruce Winery 21439 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-399-5800

Other Wineries Related to the Judgment of Paris

• G rgich Hills Estate 1829 St. Helena Hwy South, St. Helena, 707-963-2784

• Bacigalupi Vineyards 4353 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-0115

• Robert Mondavi Winery 7801 St Helena Hwy, Oakville 888-766-6328

JUDGMENT OF PARIS AT 50: CURATED CELEBRATIONS

From Napa to New York — and back again — the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1976 tasting is inspiring a year-long lineup of events that honor the past while toasting the future of California wine.

• M ay 2 | Grgich Hills Estate, St. Helena, CA

Chardonnay Masterclass

Kick off the celebration with an intimate deep dive into Chardonnay led by winemaker Ivo Jeramaz and Violet Grgich. Expect insights into the grape that helped change wine history.

• M ay 9 | Bacigalupi Vineyards, Healdsburg, CA

Among the Vines: A Paris Tasting Vineyard Tour & Luncheon

Return to where it all began — among the vines of the historic Paris Tasting Block, which supplied 40% of the Chardonnay poured at the legendary 1976 tasting. Join the Bacigalupi family and winemaker Ashley Herzberg for an intimate vineyard walk through the Paris Tasting Vineyard, with thoughtfully selected wines along the way. The experience concludes with a seasonal farm-to-table luncheon.

• M ay 11–17 | CIA at Copia, Napa, CA

Judgment of Paris Anniversary Week

A full week of tastings, panels, and culinary experiences explores the impact of the 1976 event and the evolution of Napa Valley’s global reputation.

• M ay 24 | New York, NY

Judgment of Paris 50th Anniversary Celebration

A cross-country toast brings the story to the East Coast, uniting collectors, sommeliers, and enthusiasts for a commemorative tasting experience.

• M ay 30 | Grgich Hills Estate, St. Helena, CA

50th Anniversary Celebration

Return to the winery that helped make history for a celebratory gathering honoring Mike Grgich’s legacy and the enduring influence of his landmark Chardonnay. A newly released wine, the Paris ’76 Chardonnay, will be featured.

THE UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTH

Some judges, upon learning that they had favored California wines, reportedly attempted to revise their scores — unable to reconcile their expectations with the reality in their glass. But the results stood, and the message was clear: greatness in wine was not confined to geography or tradition.

FROM “NON-EVENT” TO GLOBAL HEADLINE

The aftermath of the Judgment of Paris was immediate and far-reaching. Though only one journalist, George Taber of Time Magazine, covered the event, his report ignited international attention. What had been expected to be a polite, even uneventful tasting became a “David versus Goliath” story that reshaped the wine industry.

• J uly 18 | Napa Valley, CA

World Premiere Opera at Festival Napa Valley

The story takes the stage with the debut of “The Judgment of Paris” opera – a reimagining of the 1976 Paris tasting, bringing the gods of Olympus together with the pioneers of California winemaking.

• S eptember 8 | La Toque, Napa, CA VENU Magazine Blind Tasting

In a modern reimagining of the 1976 event, VENU magazine will stage a blind tasting featuring both original producers and contemporary global counterparts. Curated by wine writer Monty Preiser and Master Sommelier Virginia Philip, the event will be emceed by Violet Grgich. Judges include an all-star panel: Jean-Charles Boisset, Ken Frank, Jeff Morgan, Sara Preiser, Shelly Rafanelli-Fehlman, Chris Sawyer, and Deborah Parker Wong, among others—bringing serious expertise (and a few perfect 100-point palates) to the table.

• O ctober 10 | Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Napa, CA Winemaker Dinner

A one-of-a-kind dinner hosted by winemakers and principles from eight of the Napa Valley wineries and vintners that were involved in the Judgment of Paris.

• O ctober 11 | Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Napa, CA Immersive Tasting Experience

Join an unprecedented gathering of eight Napa Valley wineries and vintners that were involved in the Judgment of Paris.

Whether you’re seated at a masterclass, raising a glass at a gala, or revisiting the wines that changed everything, the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris offers a rare chance to experience history — one pour at a time.

For more Judgment of Paris events across the US and abroad, visit judgementofparis50.com

– FROM VINE TO BARREL

The Belmonte Family Unveils Rockpile Bourbon

The legacy of Sonoma’s Belmonte family runs deep. Their story begins in the late 1990s, when Henry Belmonte and his brother Victor dreamed of a place to pour their own wines. Victor’s untimely death at the age of thirty-four spawned the birth of VJB Vineyards and Cellars, in honor of the late Victor Joseph Belmonte.

BY CHRISTINE RIOS

VJB Cellars – Tuscan Ispired, Family Driven

The first vintage of VJB’s Italian varietal wines was released in 1999, with the Kenwood tasting room opening in 2003. Production now stands at 10,000 cases. The property itself has grown immensely over the years, with the expansion of the tasting room into a Tuscan-style villa complete with piazza, a full-service deli, pizza kitchen, gelato shop, barrel room for special events, and even a Tommy Bahama boutique. This is truly a family affair, with Henry Belmonte, “the Big Parm,” helming the operation, Vittorio Belmonte, “Il Patron,” guiding the winemaking team, and Maria Belmonte, “the Nonna,” serving as executive chef.

Visit the tasting room to try the Primitivo, an awardwinning top performer, as well as their flagship wine Dante, a perfect example of the VJB winemaking team’s ability to blend Old World and New World winemaking styles. Tastings are available at the bar, in the piazza, and virtually, as well. You can even set up a wine tasting experience with a family-style lunch included.

Wellington Cellars – Intimate Bordeaux-Style Experiences

In 2014, the Belmonte’s bought Wellington Cellars, a twenty-four acre property just two miles down the road. This addition brought with it a new production facility and the ability to expand their wine portfolio to include French Bordeaux-style blends. The newly redesigned tasting room debuted in 2024. Case production is now 3,500 cases a year with the focus on limited production estate grown fruit. There are multiple tasting experiences available here, including at the bar, in the olive grove, or in the vineyard. You can even set up a tasting with the proprietors, Henry and Vittorio Belmonte, themselves.

Kenwood Ranch – A Bucolic Setting for Celebrations

The Belmonte’s branched out further with the acquisition of Kenwood Ranch, a quintessential wine country event venue nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley. Here you will find a bucolic backdrop for weddings and special events. Guests enjoy access to the orchard, lawn, patio, barn, and bridal cottage, all perfectly paired with VJB and Wellington wines, of course!

Rockpile Bourbon – From Wine Roots to Craft Spirit

Rooted in wine, food, and family, a new spirit now emerges. After five years of dedicated work and careful craftsmanship, Henry Belmonte proudly presents the newest addition to his family’s legacy, Rockpile Bourbon. This 90-proof straight bourbon whiskey, made from a mash of corn, rye, and barley, is crafted in small batches at the Wellington production facility, where it is aged for five years in American oak and then finished for thirty days in Montepulciano and Sangiovese wine barrels. Their newest creation is a further testament to their knack for bridging the gap between the old world and the new, as well as between their wine roots and the spirit that Henry Belmonte has always loved. You can purchase Rockpile Bourbon at the Wellington facility. Tasting experiences will be coming soon.

Where Every Guest Becomes Family

When you step on the grounds of any of the Belmonte family’s properties you are guaranteed to feel at home. Every glass and every bite celebrate the memory of Victor J. Belmonte and serve as a testament to their love of sharing their family traditions with Sonoma. They have fostered a warm environment, bringing people together through food, wine, and tradition — a place where every guest becomes part of the story. Their motto is “Come as a guest, leave as family.” Mission accomplished.

VJB CELLARS | Open daily 10am | 60 Shaw Avenue, Kenwood | 707-833-2300 | vjbcellars.com

WELLINGTON CELLARS | Open daily 10am | 11600 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen | 707-934-8604 | wellingtoncellars.com

ROCKPILE BOURBON (at Wellington Cellars) | Open daily 10am | 11600 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen | 707-934-8604 | rockpilebourbon.com

KENWOOD RANCH | 9250 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood | 707-833-2300 | kenwoodranchevents.com

ROBERT MONDAVI WINERY

A Landmark Reopens for a New Era

Timed to its 60th anniversary, Robert Mondavi Winery officially reopened its historic Oakville estate on April 20, unveiling a reimagined destination shaped by a threeyear transformation. Long regarded as a cornerstone of Napa Valley winemaking, the winery returns with new guest experiences, modernized facilities, and a limitededition commemorative Cabernet Sauvignon release.

The renovation marks the most significant evolution of the property since its founding in 1966. Updates include a new hospitality wing, expanded indoor-outdoor tasting areas, enhanced culinary spaces, and state-of-the-art winemaking facilities. At once-contemporary and deeply rooted in heritage, the redesign reflects the enduring vision of founder Robert Mondavi: a place where wine, culture, and community intersect.

Architecture Rooted in Legacy

“This transformation reflects a renewal of Robert Mondavi’s original vision,” said Peggy Hemphill, Brand Marketing Director. “We’re proud to welcome guests back with experiences that feel both elevated and authentic to Napa Valley.”

Architecturally, the project honors the legacy of Cliff May, whose midcentury design defined the winery’s iconic look. Signature elements, including the arch and tower, have been carefully restored, while new interventions by Aidlin Darling Design and Surfacedesign strengthen the connection between the estate and its surrounding landscape. A striking inverted gable canopy now anchors a series of terraces and gathering spaces, while a new culinary building and garden-focused programming deepen the sensory experience.

Precision Winemaking, Elevated

Central to the winery’s next chapter is its commitment to precision winemaking. Estate vineyards, led by the renowned To Kalon Vineyard — now certified organic — continue to define the character of its wines. Inside the newly built To Kalon Cellar, advanced technologies such as optical sorting and gravityflow systems, allow for smallerlot fermentation and greater expression of site.

“The reopening reflects the evolution happening behind the cellar doors,” said head winemaker Kurtis Ogasawara. “We’re refining every step of the process to highlight the individuality of each vineyard block.”

Designed for Connection

The transformation extends beyond architecture and winemaking into the guest experience itself. Landscapes designed to reflect the region’s geological history guide visitors through terraces, gardens, and pathways that mirror the natural forces shaping Napa Valley. Interiors by BAMO introduce warmth and intimacy, blending natural textures with preserved elements such as hand-painted tiles by Margrit Mondavi.

New tasting experiences invite deeper exploration of the estate. The To Kalon Collective offers access to wines from multiple producers tied to the vineyard, including Schrader Cellars and Double Diamond, while the reimagined Tower Library provides an intimate setting for rare and reserve tastings.

A Commemorative Release

To mark the milestone, the winery will release a 2023 60th Anniversary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($125), sourced from To Kalon and Wappo Hill vineyards. The wine is now available at the estate, online, and through select retail partners.

Reservations for tastings, tours, and culinary experiences are now open, signaling a new era for one of Napa Valley’s most influential estates — where legacy and innovation meet once again.

Kitchen Swagger Starts with the Right Knife

If you have ever used a quality blade then you know that all knives are not created equal and the team at New West KnifeWorks is passionate about helping patrons discover their craftsmanship. Your kitchen prowess, or flare, will never be the same.

Established over 25 years ago by Corey Milligan, a modest, self-proclaimed “maker,” New West KnifeWorks was born as a hobby that took shape in a workspace inside the founder’s small apartment in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The handcrafted knives proved so popular for this artisan, who began selling his wares at the nation’s top arts and craft shows and festivals, the first retail location for the knife maker was soon founded in Jackson

In the Home

For the home chef, shoppers will find an impressive array of beautifully crafted knives from paring to santoku and bread to deli, all of which feature high-grade S35VN steel. If you want to geek out, this type of particle metallurgy steel provides New West knife makers with just the right ratio of carbide distribution allowing for not only excellent strength but also incredible edge retention.

If the steel was not an attractive enough draw, certainly the gorgeously formed color handles will do the trick.

In the Wild

For game hunters and outdoorsy personalities, the St. Helena establishment features a curated collection of hunting knives and gear, including custom-made pieces that feature exotic handles such as water buffalo horn and elk antler.

If cool outdoor gear wasn’t enough of a draw, shoppers can indulge in a bit of wild gaming right within the store. Tomahawks, anyone? Yup, you can try your hand at tomahawk throwing, in downtown St. Helena.

The next time you visit St. Helena or – for that matter, Denver, Park City, Jackson Hole, or Big Sky – add New West KnifeWorks to your list of must-see spots. Who knew knives could be so much fun?

ATasteofNapa,Reinvented

At Priest Ranch, wine is just the beginning.

There’s a particular kind of magic that happens when good wine and good food come together — but at Priest Ranch, that harmony is reimagined into something bolder, more unexpected, and undeniably memorable.

Nestled in the heart of Yountville, the tasting room at Priest Ranch is not your typical wine country stop. It’s a sensory playground where every pairing, every pour, and every plate is curated with intention — and a little creative edge. From the seasonal Bacon & Wine Experience to live music paired with four-course menus, Priest Ranch invites guests to taste Napa Valley through a fresh lens.

Not Just a Tasting — An Experience

The Bacon & Wine Experience is where many guests begin their journey — and for good reason. This signature tasting features four globally inspired preparations of thickcut pork belly, each paired with a different Priest Ranch wine. It’s a flavor deep dive that challenges assumptions and excites the palate.

Think pork belly glazed in pomegranate molasses paired with a structured red blend, or a smoky preparation alongside Peacemaker. The combinations change seasonally, offering a reason to return again and again. Every pairing is the result of collaboration between Executive Chef Dan Solomon and the tasting room team, whose shared passion for bold flavor and unexpected harmony drives each experience.

EXECUTIVE CHEF DAN SOLOMON

Beyond the Tasting Room

Do you prefer a full meal with your wine?

Step next door to The Kitchen at Priest Ranch and sink your teeth into the award-winning Smashburger, perfectly paired with a glass of Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon. Whether you’re here for a curated tasting or a casual bite, they’ve got you covered.

Bring a Little Priest Ranch Home

Guests can take a taste of the experience home with house-made KPR rubs, estate olive oil, and other culinary essentials available for purchase onsite or online.

Fan favorite: The Mediterranean Spice Rub, used in Chef Dan’s recipe for Mediterranean Spiced Pork Chops — a dish that’s equal parts rustic and refined, and a perfect pairing for Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon or their signature blend, Coach Gun.

Choose Your Adventure

Have wine YOUR way at Whitehall Lane Winery.

From traditional bar tastings to estate tours and seated venues, build your experience your way and even add a snack or two.

Elevated Cabernet Tasting

Sip in the views of the Mayacamas Mountains from our Club Room while savoring the most exquisite Cabernets in our collection, from library releases to single-vineyard wines.

Leo Trio

A quick and fun sip of three current-release wines, guided by one of our excellent educators, in our tasting room or on our front patio.

Winery Exclusive Flight

Enjoy a selection of fantastic Napa Valley wines that can only be found here. Relax in our Garden Pavilion among the vines and enjoy the sunshine (sunshine not guaranteed).

Don’t Miss

Y2K Music Bingo Remix, May 15, 6:30-8:30pm

Discover upcoming events and make a reservation at www.priestranchwines.com.

Priest Ranch Tasting Room

6490 Washington St, Yountville (707) 944-8200

The Kitchen at Priest Ranch 6488 Washington Blvd, Yountville (707) 947-4017

Add-Ons & Extras

Make your visit extra special by adding on a cheese or charcuterie plate, or schedule a picnic lunch from Oakville Grocery to enjoy during your tasting.

Which adventure will you choose?

ROOM OPEN DAILY 10AM-5:30PM RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

– Sunny Side Up –PETIT SOLEIL

BY JENNIFER DADESHO

There’s a certain hour in Napa Valley when it feels like the town belongs only to the people who live there. Before the first wine of the day is poured, before the roads hum with visitors, before the moments become scheduled – there’s morning and breakfast. Not the kind you plan. The kind you fall into.

Locals drift toward places that don’t try too hard, where the food is honest, the coffee is simple and strong, and the rhythm is unhurried. And, while “bougie brunch” certainly has its moments, sometimes there is simply no need to complicate breakfast. Maybe eggs, maybe bacon, always coffee. And, around you, conversations are low and familiar – winemakers, chefs, neighbors, and out-of-towners - all easing into the day.

If you ask locals where they linger a little longer for breakfast, the answer often turns to the cozy Petit Soleil. For years, Petit Soleil was tucked into a quiet cove of downtown Napa and it always felt like something discovered rather than something advertised. The space – cheerful and kitschy without trying – featured mismatched furnishings, including coffee mugs with clever and cheeky messages, in a way that felt personal and lived-in. Hence, this cozy little spot naturally lent itself to breakfast meals that stretched into late morning without anyone noticing.

The chill and cheery team at Petit Soleil is led by Trena Madrigal, a lifelong Napa resident with deep roots in the region, who took the helm of the existing establishment on Clay Street. Her vision has always been to create a place where people could gather over fresh, flavorful food without pretense – a space that felt as friendly as it was delicious and, in 2022, Petit Soleil began shining its sunny rays in downtown Napa.

After almost 4 years of being such a snug yet coveted space, Petit Soleil has outgrown the cute little alcove in downtown Napa, carving out a new and equally sunny spot just three miles away from the original.

Here, in its new home at the corner of Soscol and Imola, the friendly crew of Petit Soleil continues to serve breakfast all day –omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes, and my personal favorite, the “Sexy Skillet”. The new Petit Soleil still features all the classics – done right and without fuss. The plates themselves are as generous and comforting as is the new space. And, Petit Soleils has managed to keep its shabby-chic, hippie vibe, maintaining its steadiness and laidback approach to neighborhood breakfast joints where nothing is rushed, nothing is overthought.

The clientele at Petit Soleil tells you everything you need to know. A mix of regulars whom the staff greets by name, families settling into a weekend rhythm, and the occasional in-the-know visitor who looks quietly pleased to have stumbled upon this local fave. Petit Soleil is still casual and still welcoming and is built around one simple idea – good food, good people, and good slow-and-sunny mornings in Napa Valley.

Open Monday-Friday 8am-2pm, Saturdays & Sundays 8am-3pm 1000 Imola Avenue, Napa • 707-252-1408 • petitsoleilnapa.com

LEDSON WINERY The Stuff of Dreams

BY JODY PURDOM

They don’t call it the Castle for nothing. Ledson Winery’s impressive edifice on Highway 12 in northern Sonoma Valley is the stuff of legend, responsible over the years for drawing an astonishing 85 percent of the winery’s foot traffic. Just as impressive is the legacy Steve Ledson and his family have built in the Valley of the Moon. Farming, ranching, and winemaking in Sonoma County since the mid-1800s, the Ledsons know a thing or two about growing exceptional fruit, making extraordinary wines, and impeccable hospitality. When it comes to shakeups in the industry, there is hardly a ruffled feather from a family that has weathered the Great Depression and Prohibition, emerging strong as both a family and a business enterprise.

Helmed today by Steve Ledson, the company has seen its share of ups and downs and has no intention of letting a downturn in wine consumption dictate its future. According to Ledson, it all comes down to hospitality. The way you make a person feel; Steve’s dad use to tell him people won’t necessarily remember what you said or what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

“It’s about respecting people,” he said. “Guests who visit the Castle or our downtown tasting room on the Sonoma Plaza are treated with respect and reverence. It’s the way I want to be treated when I travel, and I want our guests to feel comfortable and at home while they’re here.”

Quality Over Quantity – For Ledson, that philosophy extends directly to the wine itself.

“People may be drinking less, but they’re drinking smarter,” he said. “That often means wines with more balance and lower alcohol. The days of big, heavy, high-alcohol wines are fading, and we’ve adjusted our winemaking to reflect that.”

His approach follows a principle passed down through generations of family farmers: identify the cause of a downturn, then adjust accordingly. Ledson farms vineyards throughout Sonoma County but is increasingly focused on sites that consistently produce exceptional fruit.

On 300-acres of Estate Vineyard, 80 acres are being removed not just for the downturn in the wine industry, it’s also because it’s the time to increase quality over quantity, keeping only the very best. “If it’s not the best, we don’t keep it,” he said.

He points instead to the Mountain Terraces vineyard in Moon Mountain AVA, just above the Castle. Rocky soil provides excellent drainage, steady breezes keep the vines cool, and mildew is virtually nonexistent. “It’s phenomenal,” Ledson said. “The fruit is extraordinary, and the wines that come from that vineyard are truly special.”

Hospitality as Culture – At Ledson, hospitality is not a department. It is the culture.

From the tasting room to the vineyards, staff are trained not just to serve wine, but to create an experience that feels personal and welcoming. That mindset begins at the top and is reinforced daily. Many employees have been with the winery for more than 25 years, some as much as 42 — a rarity in an industry known for high turnover.

“Our longtime employees are the foundation of this winery and the key to sustaining our business,” Ledson said. “They stay because they enjoy what they do, and that shows. When our team is genuinely happy to be here, guests feel it.” Many say they don’t know if they are at work or at play, because they are enjoying every minute.

Steve is not just the viticulturist nor just the winemaker, he is a true Vigneron, a term used in France for those who do both. That consistency — in farming, in winemaking, and in service — may be the real secret behind the Castle’s staying power. In a changing wine landscape, Ledson Winery continues to rely on what has always sustained it: quality, resilience, and a deep-rooted belief that hospitality matters.

Tradition in Bloom

After generations of farming and riding out the inevitable ups and downs of both the economy and the wine business, Ledson Winery is still guided by the same values that built it: care for the land, a focus on quality, and a belief that hospitality matters.

In the spring, that steady foundation feels especially fitting. Vineyards are bursting with bright green shoots and sunshine warms the rolling hills. There’s an ease to the season – quieter roads, cool mornings, and time to linger over a tasting rather than rush through it. It’s a chance to see the Castle and the vineyards at their most alive, and to taste wines that reflect both history and careful attention. If you’re looking for a moment to slow down and experience the Valley of the Moon at its best, spring – and Ledson Winery – make a compelling case.

BROADWAY UNDER THE STARS

Transcendence Theatre Company  Announces 15th Anniversary Summer Season

Three-show summer season in Sonoma’s Field of Dreams venue, featuring Ain’t Too Proud, Radio Recall, and Mamma Mia!

In partnership with the City of Sonoma and the Field of Dreams, Transcendence Theatre Company (TTC) announced its highly anticipated 15th anniversary season of Broadway Under the Stars, returning to Sonoma with what the company calls its biggest season yet. The 2026 season will feature three dynamic productions: Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Radio Recall, and the beloved musical Mamma Mia! — bringing Broadway-caliber talent to the company’s open-air Field of Dreams theater venue just steps from historic Sonoma Plaza.

“For fifteen years, Transcendence has brought audiences together to experience the magic of live theater in one of the most beautiful settings in the country,” said Transcendence Theatre Company Co-Founder Amy Miller. “Broadway Under the Stars has grown into California wine country’s premier award-winning entertainment experience, and this season reflects the extraordinary talent and community spirit that have made it so special.”

Celebrating fifteen years of inspiring audiences, Transcendence continues to blend Broadway-caliber performances with the magic of outdoor theatre in wine country. Each evening begins with the company’s signature pre-show picnic experience — featuring local wine, food, and breathtaking sunset views before the stage comes alive under the stars.

To further enhance the wine country experience, Transcendence is partnering with select Sonoma hotels to offer exclusive packages, including discounted accommodations and tickets to Broadway Under the Stars

The season opens June 12 with Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical that tells the extraordinary story of the legendary Motown group whose signature sound shaped a generation. Featuring iconic hits including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” the electrifying

production celebrates the music, brotherhood, and powerful legacy of one of America’s most influential groups.

“The Temptations shaped a generation, and the songs they created left a lasting mark on American music, bringing joy and building a bridge between races. This story is not only about featuring their incredible music; it's about the brotherly bond they formed along the way,” said Director Vasthy Mompoint.

Opening July 10, Radio Recall takes audiences on a high-energy musical journey celebrating more than six decades of the songs that shaped our lives — from Queen and The Beatles to Tina Turner and Coldplay. The production is headlined by Aaron Lavigne, a standout contestant from The Voice who earned a chair turn and joined Team Kelly Clarkson, alongside Broadway star Jenna Rubaii (Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 50th Anniversary Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar) for a night of unforgettable music, storytelling, and show-stopping vocals. It’s the soundtrack of your life performed live under the stars.

The season concludes with the global smash hit Mamma Mia! ,  opening August 13 and featuring the infectious music of ABBA and the beloved story of love, friendship, and family set on a sundrenched Greek island. The production promises a joyful finale filled with iconic songs including “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and “Super Trouper.”

“This season brings some of the biggest Broadway vibes Sonoma has ever seen — from the powerful story and music of Ain’t Too Proud to the nostalgia

of Radio Recall and the joyful energy of Mamma Mia! ,” said Artistic Director Tony Gonzalez. “Each production celebrates the power of music and how it gives us life.”

Community & Impact

Transcendence Theatre Company’s impact extends far beyond the stage, with a deep commitment to community engagement, arts education, and accessibility. Through partnerships with local nonprofits and its Transcendence For All, the company provides performances, workshops, and programs that serve youth, seniors, and underserved communities throughout the North Bay.

A portion of every ticket sold supports the Field of Dreams and local youth sports and recreation programs. To date, Transcendence has entertained more than 350,000 guests, raised over $850,000 for local nonprofits, inspired 11,000 youth through arts education, and contributed millions to the region’s cultural and economic vitality.

“Transcendence has always been about more than just great

performances,” said Executive Director Brad Surosky. “It’s about creating an experience where audiences gather, celebrate music, and feel part of something truly special within this incredible community.”

Pre-Show Picnic Experience

On performance days, the magic begins before the curtain rises. Starting at 5 p.m., all ticket holders are invited to the pre-show picnic on the picturesque Field of Dreams lawn. This signature Sonoma-style experience features local food, wine, specialty cocktails, and live music — creating a vibrant atmosphere where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy the evening before the performance begins.

Community Nights

The season will feature a series of themed community nights, including ASL-interpreted performances (June 19, July 12, August 21), Juneteenth (June 19), Family Night (July 10), and Pride Night (August 29).

See all ticket information at transcendencetheatre.org/tickets.

Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Knights Valley and Russian River Valley Wines Featured at ‘Pour + Explore’

BY RONDA GIANGRECO

The Sonoma County wine country offers what many visitors seek … an experience that combines amazing wine, culinary excellence, breathtaking scenery, and an opportunity to leave the din of city life behind. Everywhere there’s a sense of the peaceful co-existence between the land and the people. Warm, welcoming and unhurried tasting experiences offer visitors a respite from the crowds. World-class dining, minus the pretension, can be enjoyed at a slower pace, often in outdoor settings that yield a feast for all the senses. Simply put, wine and food taste even more delicious when enjoyed while taking in a panorama of rolling hills, verdant vineyards and towering redwoods.

The Sonoma County wine region actually consists of 19 American Vinticulture Areas, or AVAs. Each AVA provides a unique set of components to the wine growing region that include soil content, weather and elevation. The result is wines that beautifully reflect what Mother Nature has graciously provided. At the north end are four distinct AVAs: Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Knights Valley, and Russian River. This month, the Pour + Explore event, taking place on May 21 at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, will focus on wines produced specifically in these four AVAs. Alexander Valley, in northeastern Sonoma County, is famous for producing rich, velvety Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as Merlot, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Vintners discovered the area’s potential in 1984, and the Alexander Valley has now become the largest and most heavily planted wine region in Sonoma County, with over 15,000 acres of vineyards along the Russian River. Encompassing the charming towns of Healdsburg and Geyserville, the valley faces the southwest-slopes of

the storied Mayacamas Mountains. With hot afternoons, followed by nights with cool breezes and morning fog, the Alexander Valley offers a unique climate that produces deep, complex flavors and acidity. These factors are essential to creating the ideal conditions for growing premium wine grapes. Visitors can enjoy the bounty of the Alexander Valley at nearly forty wineries and tasting rooms. In 2025, Conde Nast Traveler rated the region as one of the top destinations in the country.

Dry Creek Valley gets its name from the picturesque Dry Creek, a tributary of the Russian River. The valley extends from the Warms Springs Creek, just south of Healdsburg, and stretches sixteen miles by two miles wide, encompassing several thousand acres of vineyards, over sixty wineries, most of which are privately owned. The Dry Creek Valley is best known for bold, beautiful Zinfandels, produced in one of the most rural and authentic settings in the wine country

of California. Dining options, while a bit limited, reflect the simple, no-frills approach to life that characterizes the heart of this charming corner of the world.

Knights Valley AVA is Sonoma County’s warmest and most remote growing region, defined by volcanic soils, rugged terrain, and wide day-to-night temperature swings. These conditions yield powerful yet structured wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, with dark fruit, firm tannins, and age-worthy depth, alongside elegant Sauvignon Blancs that balance richness with vibrant acidity.

The Russian River Valley AVA is a 96,000-acre wine region traversed by the scenic Russian River, a favorite recreational area for locals and visitors, alike. Encompassing the historic towns of Forestville, Sebastopol and Healdsburg, the Russian River Valley AVA is noted for its cool climate, majestic Redwoods, and proximity to the coast. Ocean breezes arrive from just a few miles away and waft over the vineyards, the result being outstanding Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Pour + Explore is an exciting tasting experience produced by Sonoma County Vintners in collaboration with Sommelier Christopher Sawyer! Discover wonderful wines that epitomize the essence of each region’s distinctive terroir. These festive evenings include a walk-around tasting of a curated selection of wines from each vintner, along with light appetizers.

Thu, May 21

Thu, June 18

Fri, July 24

Thu, August 20

Thu, September 17

Fri, October 16

Thu, November 19

Thu, December 10

Pour + Explore: Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Knights Valley, and Russian River Valley at Paradise Ridge Winery

Pour + Explore: Chardonnay at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens

Pour + Explore: Sonoma Valley, Ram’s Gate Winery

Pour + Explore: Rosé & Aromatic Whites

Pour + Explore: Zinfandel

Pour + Explore: Petaluma Gap, West Sonoma Coast

Pour + Explore: Rhône Varietals

Pour + Explore: Sparkling Wines at Gloria Ferrer For up-to-date information and tickets, visit sonomawine.com/pour-explore

Explore Sonoma County’s Largest

Sip, Savor, and Support Music at WINEFEST

Annual Event Benefits Lake County Symphony Association, June 13

On June 13th, Library Park in the heart of Lakeport will transform into a vibrant celebration of music, wine, and community as the Lake County Symphony Association hosts its annual WINEFEST. Running from noon to 5 p.m., this long-standing tradition, now in its 20th year, is the biggest fundraiser for the symphony, and it promises a day of indulgence, creativity, and lively entertainment for visitors of all ages.

The festival is a haven for wine and beer enthusiasts. From the rolling hills and volcanic soils of Lake County, local vineyards produce some of the region’s most distinctive wines, bursting with flavors shaped by the area’s unique terroir. At WINEFEST, both home winemakers and established commercial wineries will pour tastes of their finest creations. Expect everything from crisp whites and bold reds to sparkling surprises that reflect Lake County’s adventurous spirit. Craft beer aficionados won’t be left out either — local brewers will be on hand to showcase small-batch brews perfect for sipping under the California sun.

WINEFEST is more than just tasting — it’s about giving back. The event, dubbed “Making Wine for Music,” directly supports the Lake County Symphony Association, helping to bring live classical and contemporary performances to the community. Attendees can also try their luck in the popular Wine Barrel Raffle, where two winners will each take home 24 bottles of Lake County wines, an enviable prize for any collector or casual sipper. For a personal touch, stop by the Symphony booth to meet Conductor John Parkinson, who will share stories about the symphony’s mission and the musicians who bring the music to life. Advance tickets for wine and beer tasting are $30, or $35 at the gate, ensuring your entry into the tasting experience. But even if wine or beer isn’t your passion, WINEFEST offers plenty to enjoy. Admission is free for visitors who want to browse the arts and crafts booths, savor local food offerings, or explore the Silent Auction, featuring unique items generously donated by local businesses and symphony supporters.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, live music will provide a soundtrack for the day, creating a lively and convivial environment where neighbors, visitors, and music lovers can mingle. Families, couples, and friends are all welcome to experience the fusion of flavors, artistry, and community spirit that defines WINEFEST.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur, a craft beer fan, or simply looking for a fun day out, WINEFEST promises a unique way to support the local symphony while celebrating Lake County’s rich food and wine culture. Don’t miss this opportunity to sip, savor, and make a difference — all in one unforgettable afternoon.

For tickets and more information, visit lakecountywinefest.com, or follow the celebration on Facebook at Facebook. com/WineForMusic.

Library Park is located at 225 Park Street, Lakeport, Come for the wine, stay for the music, and leave with memories — and perhaps a few bottles of Lake County’s finest — in hand. lakecountywinefest.com

Best Wine Country Inn

Best Staycation

WHERE CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY MEETS THE SONOMA COAST…

THE INN AT THE TIDES IS LOCATED 60 MILES NORTH OF SAN FRANCISCO AND IS NEARBY THE FINEST BEACHES, WORLD-CLASS WINE TASTING, CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF, SPORTFISHING ADVENTURES, WHALE WATCHING TOURS & THE MAGNIFICENT ARMSTRONG REDWOODS NATURAL RESERVE

COMPLIMENTARY CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST

BOTTLE OF WINE UPON ARRIVAL BAY, POOL, GARDEN OR PASTURE VIEWS

IN-ROOM MASSAGE SERVICES POOL, SAUNA, WHIRLPOOL AND FITNESS CENTER

WIRELESS INTERNET AVAILABLE ROOM SERVICE – BREAKFAST & DINNER

800 HIGHWAY ONE, BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA 94923

WWW.INNATTHETIDES.COM (800) 541-7788

WINEMAKER DINNER SERIES

AT THE BAY VIEW RESTAURANT

MAY  15: BALLETTO VINEYARDS with John & Terri Balletto

JUNE  12: HONIG VINEYARD AND WINERY with Steve & Annika Honig

JULY 24: THREE STICKS • AUGUST 21: HOOK & LADDER WINERY

NO SEATS AVAILABLE ... WITHOUT A VIEW OF THE BAY

UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL SETTING AND VIEWS. MADE FAMOUS IN THE EARLY 1960’S AS THE BACKDROP OF ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S FILM CLASSIC, “THE BIRDS”, THE TIDES REMAINS A POPULAR DESTINATION FOR LOCALS AND TRAVELERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.

OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER & COCKTAILS SEAFOOD, BURGERS, PASTA, CHOWDER, STEAKS VEGETARIAN AND GLUTEN-FREE SELECTIONS

CHILDREN’S MENU AND FOOD TO GO WIRELESS INTERNET AVAILABLE

835 HIGHWAY ONE, BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA 94923

WWW.INNATTHETIDES.COM (707) 847-3652

Fifth Annual Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience

World-Class Wine & Culinary Celebration Returns to Wine Country

The Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience returns May 14-17 for a four-day celebration of Sonoma County’s farmers, growers, winemakers, and chefs alongside acclaimed wines from leading regions around the world. Set among the vineyards and rolling hills of Healdsburg in California wine country, the festival highlights a culinary culture rooted in sustainability, seasonality, and a deep connection to agriculture.

The weekend opens with a Welcome Celebration at Appellation Healdsburg, the culinary-focused luxury hotel founded by Chef Charlie Palmer and Executive Chef Reed Palmer. The evening features dishes from chefs Maneet Chauhan and Duskie Estes alongside offerings from the Appellation culinary team, paired with curated wines.

A featured seminar, “150 Years of Beringer Vineyards,” moderated by Ray Isle, executive wine editor of Food & Wine magazine, honors Napa Valley’s longest continuously operating winery as it celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026. Founded in 1876, Beringer Vineyards helped shape California wine. Pairings will be prepared by Charlie Palmer, Reed Palmer, and the Appellation Healdsburg culinary team.

Another seminar, “Don’t Bust My Chops” Red Wine Loves Lamb, takes place at Arandas in Healdsburg. Moderated by wine educator Anthony Giglio, the session explores the science behind pairing red wine and lamb, featuring a tasting of red wines with lamb dishes prepared by XXVII North using lamb from the American Lamb Board.

Saturday’s Grand Tasting (12-4 p.m., with VIP early entry from 11 a.m.–12 p.m.) will feature bites from nationally recognized chefs including Joe Sasto, Nadia Caterina Munno

“The Pasta Queen,” Viet Pham, Lee Anne Wong, and Britt Rescigno, while more than 150 local and international wine producers pour throughout the afternoon.

The Vintners Plaza Grand Tasting will showcase Willer Larreal of Sushi by Scratch Restaurants; Jeffrey Lunak of Sumo Dog; Mark Stark and Chef David Zimmerman of Stark Reality Restaurants featuring Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar; Todd Kneiss of Acme Burger; Kris Austin of A&M BBQ; Dino Moniodis of Dino’s Greek; Carlos J. Mojica of Guiso Latin Fusion; Jake Rand of Sushi Koko; Ari Weiswasser of Glen Ellen Star, Stella, and Park Avenue Catering; and Sheana Davis of The Epicurean Connection.

Featured experiences include the Sushi by Scratch Restaurants Omakase Dinner Friday evening at Aperture Cellars and the Garden to Table Lunch at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens. Chef Willer Larreal will present an omakase-inspired tasting paired with wines from Founder and Head Winemaker Jesse Katz, named 2025 Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast. The Garden to Table Lunch features Executive Chef Tracey Shepos Cenami, Master Culinary Gardener Tucker Taylor, and Top Chef alum Maneet Chauhan.

Additional highlights include the Sommelier Showdown Dinner at Dry Creek Kitchen, where American and international sommeliers compete to pair wines with a menu from Executive Chef Shane McAnelly alongside Chefs Charlie Palmer, Reed Palmer, and Daniel Kedan of the Culinary Institute of America. Moderated by Ray Isle, guests will vote for their favorite pairings.

Platinum VIP Weekend Package holders will enjoy a lunch at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery featuring fresh

pastas by Nadia Caterina Munno “The Pasta Queen” and Italian dishes by Domenica Catelli, paired with Ferrari-Carano wines and selections from Chalk Hill Estate, Chateau St. Jean, Silverado Vineyards, Lancaster Estate, and Champagne PIAFF, with bites from Sam McKenzie, Culinary Director of Foley Family Wine & Spirits.

Friday morning, J Vineyards’s Shifting the Lens series returns with a brunch hosted by Iron Chef, Top Chef, and restaurateur Stephanie Izard. Friday evening at MacMurray Estate, VIP guests will attend a seated Platinum Dinner featuring wines from Ravenswood Winery and live-fire cooking by chef Britt Rescigno.

The 5th annual outdoor concert at Rodney Strong Vineyards will feature Grace Bowers, the 19-yearold award-winning guitarist, singer, songwriter, and bandleader. Opening the evening is country music singer/songwriter Hannah Ellis, nominated for New Female Artist of the Year at the American Country Music Awards. Rodney Strong wines and food truck dinners will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting Farm to Pantry.

The Big Bottle Party at The Matheson returns with large-format wines paired with late-night bites by Chefs Dustin Valette and Lee Anne Wong, plus a Sushi by Scratch Restaurants pop-up omakase tasting, wine lounges, caviar stations, and a dance floor.

Sunday concludes with the Sunday Wine-Down Pool Party at Appellation Healdsburg and the Pizza & Pinot Party at Copain Wines in the Russian River Valley, where Joe Sasto and Ari Weiswasser will serve handmade pizzas paired with Pinot Noir.

“As we mark our fifth year, we’re proud of how the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience has evolved into a platform that champions sustainability, culinary innovation, and agricultural heritage,” said Steve Dveris, Founder and CEO.

Partners of the Healdsburg Wine & Food Experience include Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, Stonestreet Estate Vineyards, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery, FOOD & WINE, and founding partner Sonoma County Winegrowers. The Official Water is San Benedetto. The Reserve Lounge at The Matheson Rooftop is presented by First Citizens Bank and First Citizens Wealth. healdsburgwineandfood.com

saturdayJune 13, 2026 noon to 5pm library park

LAKEPORT CALIFORNIA

WINE AND BEER

TASTING TICKETS $35 ARTS, CRAFTS & FOOD VENDORS

WINE BARREL RAFFLES SILENT AUCTION PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS

Miles Davis Centennial Celebration

A multi-dimensional tribute honoring the life, legacy, and influence of a musical pioneer

On Saturday, May 30, Music in Place will present the Miles Davis 100 - A Centennial Celebration , a dynamic, multi-part experience honoring one of the most innovative and transformative artists in music.

The program will take place at the Sonoma Community Center and the Sebastiani Theatre, both in beautiful downtown Sonoma. Featured artists will include Emcee Dick Conte, jazz artist and educator Marcus Shelby, the Konstantins Jemeljanovs Sextet and jazz legend Tom Scott.

A visionary trumpeter, composer, and bandleader, Miles Davis redefined jazz again and again — from BeBop, to the cool elegance of Kind of Blue, to the electrifying fusion of Bitches Brew, and into pop fusion throughout the 1980s. Known for constantly evolving his sound and elevating the artists around him, Davis shaped the course of modern music and left a legacy that continues to influence generations across genres.

More than a concert, the Miles Davis Centennial Celebration invites audiences into an immersive journey through music, conversation, historical videos, and visual art. The event explores the Miles Davis influence across generations and artistic disciplines.

“Miles Davis didn’t just shape jazz,”

said Rod Marymor, President of Music in Place, “he reshaped how we listen, create, and experience music and culture. This event is an opportunity to honor that legacy in a meaningful and inspiring way.”

The Miles Davis Centennial Celebration is sponsored by the Sonoma Tourism Industry District, the Sonoma Valley Jazz Society, the Dawn Redwood Trust, the KHR McNeely Family Foundation and the Sonoma Community Center.

A DAY OF MUSIC, CONVERSATION & EXPERIENCE

• A Conversation with Marcus Shelby 3pm, Sonoma Community Center, 276 E. Napa Street, Sonoma Renowned bassist, composer, and

educator Marcus Shelby leads an engaging conversation exploring Miles Davis’ profound impact on music and culture. This intimate experience offers deeper insight into an artist whose work continues to shape the sound of modern music. A limited number of tickets are available with the purchase of a concert ticket.

Advance purchase required.

• VIP Reception & Docent Tour 6pm, Sebastiani Theatre, 476 1st Street East, Sonoma

VIP guests are invited to an exclusive pre-show experience featuring a curated gallery of original photographs, historic Fillmore posters, and rare visual artifacts celebrating Miles Davis’ legacy. The reception includes wine, early access, and reserved seating.

• Centennial Celebration Concert 7pm, Sebastiani Theatre, 476 1st Street East, Sonoma

The evening culminates in a powerful live performance by the Konstantins Jemeljanovs Sextet with special guest Tom Scott. Guided by emcee Dick Conte and enhanced by curated multimedia, the concert offers an immersive tribute to the evolution and genius of Miles Davis.

$45 for general admission, $75 VIP musicinplace.org

14th Annual Yountville Art, Sip & Stroll

Sip, savor and stroll in downtown Yountville on Saturday, May 16

Yountville Arts presents the 14th Annual Art, Sip & Stroll, on Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Art, Sip & Stroll, the Napa Valley’s largest visual arts event, is an open-air event offering visitors and valley residents the opportunity to enjoy fine art, fine wine and great food in the heart of Napa Valley.

Stroll downtown Yountville’s Washington Street where over 80 juried artists, wineries, tasting rooms and live musical performances await attendees. For guests who find that perfect painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry or work of art in a variety of mediums, concierge services are available for shipping, wrapping and will call to hold items until the end of the event.

Complete the day by purchasing lunch on site from local food vendors and relax in one of the town’s park-

like venues, or make reservations for lunch or dinner at one of Yountville’s celebrated restaurants at yountville. com/dining.

Don’t miss 2026 featured artists Katherine Zimmer at the Steve Rogers Gallery, in the Heart of the Art, Sip and Stroll event. The exclusive, open

to the public show and exhibition, “In the Middle of Somewhere”, features Zimmer’s PhotoArt. Meet Katherine in person and view her unique artwork that is available for sale.

There is no charge to enjoy the event, which is situated throughout the center of town and ample parking is available. Once parked, guests are encouraged to walk or use the free Yountville Bee Bus to travel throughout Town.

Guests can enjoy the art at no charge, or they can purchase an “Art, Sip & Stroll” tasting package for $50 per person which includes a tasting glass with wine tasting tokens to be used at over 20 unique wine tasting stops, plus an original Art, Sip & Stroll 2026 poster hand signed by artist Katherine Zimmer.

All proceeds from Art, Sip & Stroll Tasting Package sales support the Arts in Yountville. artsipstroll.com

Things To Do

• N apa Valley Drifters (707) 492-5701 napavalleydrifters.com

• S onoma Ballooning (707) 819-9223 sonomaballooning.com

• Napa Valley Aloft (855) 944-4408 ballooning@nvaloft .com nvaloft .com

• Wine Country Balloons (707) 538-7359 hotline@balloontours.com winecountryballoons.com

• Napa Valley Drifters (707) 492-5701 napavalleydrifters.com

CYCLING

• Sonoma Ballooning (707) 819-9223 sonomaballooning.com

• N apa River Velo Napa, (707) 258-8729 info@naparivervelo.com naparivervelo.com

• Fat Tire Bike Rental Napa, (707) 345-6396 fattirebikerentals@gmail.com www.fattirebikerentals.org

H NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS (707) 251-8687 info@napavalleybiketours.com napavalleybiketours.com

• Getaway Adventures 800-499-2453 info@getawayadventures.com getawayadventures.com

• Pushpak Motors Tours on electric trikes Sonoma, (707) 343-1192 www.pushpakmotors.net

• Napa Native Tours (707) 815-0172 WineTours@NapaNative.com www.napanative.com

HOT AIR BALLOONS

Hot Air Balloons

If you’ve never taken a hot air balloon ride, there’s no better place than wine country to experience the amazing 360° aerial views from inside the basket. Experienced and knowledgeable hot air balloon pilots act as both guide and entertainer while pointing out local highlights and welcoming questions from you and fellow flyers.

If you’ve never taken a hot air balloon ride, there’s no better place than wine country to experience the amazing 360° aerial views from inside the basket. Experienced and knowledgeable hot air balloon pilots act as both guide and entertainer while pointing out local highlights and welcoming questions from you and fellow flyers.

• B alloons Above the Valley 800-464-6824 info@balloonrides.com balloonrides.com

• Balloons Above the Valley 800-464-6824 info@balloonrides.com balloonrides.com

• N apa Valley Balloons 800-253-2224 info@napavalleyballoons.com napavalleyballoons.com

• N apa Valley Aloft (855) 944-4408 ballooning@nvaloft.com nvaloft.com

• Napa Valley Balloons 800-253-2224 info@napavalleyballoons.com napavalleyballoons.com

Whether you’re after a leisurely afternoon pedal or a full day of serious biking through the vineyards, there are several cycling companies offering guided, off-the-beatenpath rides throughout the valley.

• Wine Country Balloons (707) 538-7359 hotline@balloontours.com winecountryballoons.com

• Ace It! Bike Tours Windsor, (707) 688-4063 aceitbiketours.com

Cycling

• Calistoga Bike Shop (707) 942-9687 www.calistogabikeshop.com

• Ride Napa Valley info@ridenapavalley.com www.ridenapavalley.com

• Napa River Velo Napa, (707) 258-8729 info@naparivervelo.com naparivervelo.com

• S onoma Valley Bike Tours Sonoma (707) 996-2453 sonomavalleybiketours.com

Whether you’re after a leisurely afternoon pedal or a full day of serious biking through the vineyards, there are several cycling companies offering guided, off -the-beaten-path rides throughout the valley.

• Fat Tire Bike Rental Napa, (707) 345-6396 fattirebikerentals@gmail.com www.fattirebikerentals.org

• G etaway Adventures 800-499-2453 info@getawayadventures.com getawayadventures.com

• Ace It! Bike Tours Windsor, (707) 688-4063 aceitbiketours.com

• N apa Native Tours (707) 815-0172 WineTours@NapaNative.com www.napanative.com

• Calistoga Bike Shop (707) 942-9687 www.calistogabikeshop.com

• St. Helena Cyclery St. Helena, (707) 963-7736 www.sthelenacyclery.com

★ NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS (707) 944-2453 info@napavalleybiketours.com napavalleybiketours.com

• Wine Country Cyclery Sonoma, (707) 996-6800 www.winecountrycyclery.com

• Pushpak Motors Tours on electric trikes Sonoma, (707) 343-1192 www.pushpakmotors.net

• Wine Country Bikes (707) 568-304 info@getawayadventures.com www.winecountrybikes.com

• Ride Napa Valley info@ridenapavalley.com www.ridenapavalley.com

• Wine Country Cycling Tours 800-462-2848 dave@adventureincycling.com winecountrycyclingtours.com

★SONOMA VALLEY BIKE TOURS Sonoma (707) 996-2453 www.sonomavalleybiketours.com

NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS One-Stop Shop for Fun Adventures!

Napa Valley Bike Tours specializes in providing visitors with some of the most unique and unforgett able vacation experiences (even if it’s just a day trip) in Napa Valley. Guided bike tours, visiting Napa wineries, self-guided wine-tasting bike tours and bike rentals are just the beginning. You can even book a bike tour/ hot air balloon ride adventure that includes lunch and wine tasting stops at two Napa Valley wineries! You’ll be talking about your adventure with Napa Valley Bike Tours for years to come!

FULL-DAY & HALF-DAY GUIDED BIKE TOURS BIKE RENTALS • ELECTRIC BIKES napavalleybiketours.com • 707.251.8687

HORSEBACK RIDING

Vineyard horseback ride coupled with a food and wine tasting, make this a must-do when visiting wine country. Saddle-up and an experienced trail guide will take you for a ride through the vineyards.

• N apa Valley Trail Rides Napa, (707) 255-5661 info@shadybrookestate.com www.napavalleytrailrides.com

• S onoma Valley Trail Rides Sonoma, (707) 343-5511 sonomavalleytrailrides.com

• Triple Creek Horse Outfit Glen Ellen, (707) 887-8700 triplecreekhorseoutfit.com

BOCCE COURTS

Many wineries have bocce courts for their visitors’ enjoyment. Becase the game is played between two players or two teams of one, two, or four, it lends itself well to hanging out with friends at the winery as part of your total winery adventure. Be sure to check ahead. Some courts require reservations and/or fees. If you have your own balls, Veterans’ Park in Yountville or Crane Park in St. Helena have bocce courts available when leagues are not in play.

• Anaba Sonoma, (707) 996-4188

• Auburn James St Helena, (707) 967-9100

• B ell Wine Cellars Napa, (707) 944-1673

H BACCHUS LANDING Healdsburg, (707) 395-0697

• B eringer Vineyards St Helena, (707) 257-5771

• B remer Family Winery St Helena, (707) 963-5411

• Chateau Montelena Calistoga, (707) 942-5105

• Chateau St. Jean Winery Kenwood, (707) 708-8171

• D ’Argenzio Winery Santa Rosa, (707) 546-2466

• D e La Montanya Vineyard Healdsburg, (707) 433-3711

• D ry Creek Vineyard Healdsburg, (707) 433-1000

• D utcher Crossing Winery Geyserville, (707) 431-2700

• Ehlers Estate Winery

St Helena, (707) 963-5972

• Farm at Carneros Inn Napa, (707) 299-4880

• Francis Ford Copola Geyserville, (707) 857-1400

• Furthermore Wines Sebastopol, (707) 823-3040

• HALL St. Helena St Helena, (707) 967-2626

• H ook & Ladder Vineyards Santa Rosa, (707) 526-2255

• I magery Estate Winery Glen Ellen, (877) 550-4278

• Landmark Vineyard Kenwood, (707) 833-0053

• M artorana Family Winery Healdsburg, (707) 433-1909

• M atanzas Creek Winery Santa Rosa, (707) 521-7019

• M athew Bruno Rutherford Rutherford, by appt. (707) 912-9112

• N ichelini Family Winery St Helena, (707) 963-0717

• Overshine Wine Co. Healdsburg, (707) 433-2222

• Piña Napa Valley Napa, (707) 738-9328

• Pope Valley Winery Pope Valley, (707) 965-1246

• Raymond Vineyards St Helena, (707) 963-3141

• S eghesio Family Vineyards Healdsburg, (707) 433-3579

• S ilenus Vintners Napa, (707) 299-3930

• Stags’ Leap Winery Napa, (707) 257-579 0

• S ugarloaf Wine Co. Kenwood, (707) 244-4885

• Thomas George Estates Healdsburg, (707) 431-8031

• Trione Vineyards Geyserville, (707) 814-8100

• Trinchero Napa Valley St Helena, (707) 963-1160

• Turnbull Wine Cellars Oakville, (707) 963-5839

PICKLEBALL

Pickleball in wine country offers a unique blend of competitive fun and scenic relaxation..

• Anaba Sonoma, (707) 996-4188

PETANQUE

Similar to bocce, the French version Petanque is growing in popularity. Courts are available at the following locations.

• Clos du Val Winery Napa, (707) 261-5212

• St. Supéry Estate Rutherford, (707) 302-3488

ON THE WATER

Kayak or SUP (stand up paddle board) are a perfect way to relax on the water while seeing the wine country sights.

• B urke’s Canoe Trips Forestville, (707) 887-1222 burkescanoetrips.com

• N apa Valley Paddle Napa, (707) 200-5511 crew@napavalleypaddle.com www.napavalleypaddle.com

• E njoy Napa Valley (707) 227-7364 enjoynapavalley@gmail.com enjoy-napa-valley.com

• Clavey Paddlesports Petaluma, (707) 766-8070 info@clavey.com, www.clavey.com

• N apa Valley Gondola (707) 373-2100 napavalleygondola.com

• Petaluma Stand Up Paddle Petaluma, (707) 486-4314 www.petalumasup.com

• Rubicon Adventures Forestville, (707) 887-2452 Bill@RubiconAdventures.com rubiconadventures.com

CULINARY CLASSES AND COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

Take a hands-on cooking class. Talented chefs will give you the tools and confidence to become a rock star in your own kitchen.

• Cakebread Cellars 800-588-0298 cakebread.com/events

• C IA at Copia (707) 967-2500 www.ciafoodies.com

• Cooking with Comedians (888) 965-7090 www.crushersofcomedy.com

• E picurean Connection Cheesemaking class (707) 235-9530 theepicureanconnection.com

• N apa Valley Cooking School St Helena, (707) 302-2452

• Planet Cheese World Cheese Tour, classes fletcher@foodwriter.com www.janetfletcher.com

• S ilverado Cooking School (707) 927-3591 info@silveradocookingschool.com silveradocookingschool.com

• Vista Collina Resort www.meritagecollection.com/ vista-collina/dining/food-wine-center

RECOMMENDED MICRO-DESTINATIONS

• The Barlow

Outdoor market district with food, wine, spirits, hip stores Sebastopol, thebarlow.net

• Cornerstone Sonoma

Shopping, dining, wine tasting, gardens, event venue; Sonoma www.cornerstonesonoma.com

• The Estate Yountville Resort

Upscale shopping, art, dining, wine tasting; Yountville www.theestateyountville.com

• Oxbow Public Market

Local gathering place for great food, wine, shopping; Downtown Napa oxbowpublicmarket.com

UNIQUELY WINE COUNTRY

As a prime vacation destination, wine country has its share of unique tours, activities and micro-destinations replete with wine tasting, boutique shops and fine dining. Here are a some we highly recommend.

• California Cheese Trail

Find where to taste cheese, cheesetrail.org

H JELLY BELLY VISITOR CENTER

Learn how the famous jelly beans are created and get free samples! Fairfield, (707) 428-2838, jellybelly.com

• N apa Valley Wine Train (707) 253-2111, www.winetrain.com

H NAPA VALLEY WINE TROLLEY

Vintage, open-air trolley, like the San Francisco Cable Cars (707) 252-6100, www.napavalleywinetrolley.com

H SONOMA VALLEY WINE TROLLEY Sonoma, (707) 938-2600 sonomavalleywinetrolley.com

LIVE PERFORMANCES

After wining and dining, continue experiening wine country with a live performance at one of these top-notch venues. Check our Calendar of Events or visit each website for what’s coming up.

• Blue Note Napa – Napa (707) 880-2300, www.bluenotenapa.com

• G reen Music Center – Rohnert Park (707) 664-4246, gmc.sonoma.edu

• Luther Burbank Center for the Arts – Santa Rosa (707) 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org

• N apa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater, Yountville (707) 944-9900, lincolntheater.com

• Oxbow RiverStage – Napa (707) 880-2300, www.oxbowriverstage.com

• Transcendence Theatre Co – Sonoma 877-424-1414, transcendencetheatre.org

OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

• J ack London State Historic Park Hiking & horseback trails, museum, ruins 707-938-5216, www.jacklondonpark.com

• S onoma Canopy Tours Ziplines, treehouse glamping 888-494-7868, sonomacanopytours.com

• S onoma County Farm Trails Visit and tour Sonoma County farms, ranches, artisans, farm stands, www.farmtrails.org

• S afari West Wildlife Preserve & African Tent Camp 800-616-2695, www.safariwest.com

• S onoma TrainTown Railroad Fun for the whole family (707) 938-3912, www.traintown.com

Every tour includes a Jelly Belly Train Ride! (weather/staffing permitted)

Wine Country Calendar

HDAILY HAPPY HOUR

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake

$1 off beer/wine/cocktails

25% off Snacks, Apps & More menu 3-6pm, greenviewbarandgrill.com

HWEEKENDS IN MAY WEEKEND CHEESE SERIES

V. Sattui Winery, St. Helena

Every weekend, the cheese counter becomes a rotating showcase of rare and remarkable selections from around the world — paired with curated wine splashes and hosted by a seriously passionate cheese team member. vsattui.com

HONGOING WEEKENDS LIVE MUSIC

Passaggio Wines, Glen Ellen

Enjoy live local music and a glass of wine! Bring your own picnic or order from one of the great restaurants in Jack London Village. 2-4pm, passaggiowines.com

HTHIRD SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH NO DROP GUIDED RIDE

Six Sigma Winery, Lower Lake

Bring your bike and ride the trails! Konocti Bicycles will host a “no drop” ride every third Saturday. Meet at the tasting room and prepare to meet other riders for camaraderie and fun. Expect rolling hills and 2 hours of biking. 9-11am, sixsigmaranch.com

HFIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH GUIDED HIKE

Six Sigma Winery, Lower Lake

Meet at the tasting room at 9am and expect rolling hills as you hike 4 miles in 2 hours. 9-11am, sixsigmaranch.com

HONGOING SUNDAYS SUNDAY SESSIONS

Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville

Live acoustic music, brunch-themed small bites from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and a curated flight of brunch-friendly wines. 10am-1pm Live music 11am-1pm, priestranchwines.com/visit

HONGOING SUNDAYS

SUNDAY FUNDAY BRUNCH

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake Bloody marys/marias & mimosas, $5 10am-3pm, greenviewbarandgrill.com

ONGOING SUNDAYS

Social Sundays

Freemark Abbey, St. Helena

Enjoy a flight of Napa Valley Classics while learning about the rich history of Freemark Abbey. 10am-4pm, freemarkabbey.com

HONGOING MONDAYS MARGARITA MONDAY

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake $6 margaritas all day. Add a crunchy taco for $2. greenviewbarandgrill.com

HONGOING TUESDAYS TWO ON TUESDAYS

Twin Pine Casino & Hotel, Middletown Lunch or dinner for two includes appetizer, entrée & desserts: lunch $30 | dinner $45, twinpine.com

HONGOING MONDAYS/TUESDAYS EARLY BIRDIES SPECIAL

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake Hot dog & draft beer, $8, 12-3pm greenviewbarandgrill.com

HONGOING WEDNESDAYS WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake 25% off all wines, greenviewbarandgrill.com

HONGOING THURSDAYS PRIX FIXE THURSDAYS

Greenview Bar & Grill, Hidden Valley Lake 3-course dinner, $27.95, beginning at 5pm greenviewbarandgrill.com

HMAY 2

2026 UNCORKED! AT THE ESTATE: AN ANNUAL TOAST TO OUR TERROIR Somerston Estate, St Helena

Be a part of this celebratory toast to the land, the wines, and the people behind it all at Somerston Estate. This exclusive afternoon invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of the Estate with guided vineyard experiences, hands-on custom wine blending, and generous tastings of premium, Estate-grown wines. Savor thoughtfully crafted culinary offerings, enjoy live music set against the backdrop of the property, and take part in interactive experiences designed to bring the terroir to life. Meet the team, explore the grounds, and raise a glass to the legacy — and future — of the land. $195, 12-3pm, PriestRanch.com

ONGOING THURSDAY-SUNDAY

Cheesemaking Classes

The Epicurean Connection, Sonoma

• H ands-on Cheesemaking Class

Thursday-Friday 12-2pm

• H ands-on Cheesemaking Class

Thursday & Saturday 3:30-5:30pm

• M ozzarella Pulling Class, Friday 3:30-5pm

• H ands-on Cheesemaking & Buttermonger Demonstration, Saturday 12-2pm $125, theepicureanconnection.com

MAY 1

The Art of Taste

Lewis Cellars, Napa

A decadent wine and culinary experience, this monthly five-course prix fixe pairing crafted by a MICHELIN-Starred chef celebrates the sensory experience through the interplay of aromas, textures, and flavors.

$350+, 6-9pm, lewiscellars.com

MAY 1

Friday Jams

Cline Cellars, Sonoma

Favorite local artists take the stage this summer. Enjoy wine and bites — both available for purchase. 5-7pm, clinecellars.com

MAY 1-3

St. Helena Sidewalk Sale

Downtown St. Helena

Great deals on home goods, last season clothing, accessories, art, and more! Make a day of it, sip, shop, and dine in St. Helena. sthelena.com

HMAY 2-3

SPRING BAZAAR AT BACCHUS

Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg

Stroll the piazza and browse a thoughtfully curated collection of local artisans, makers, and small businesses featuring handcrafted goods, seasonal finds, art, home décor, jewelry, gifts, and more. Make a day (or a weekend) of it — sip and taste with Bacchus Landing’s acclaimed wineries, enjoy the fresh spring air, and discover unique treasures while supporting the local community. Whether you’re shopping for Mother’s Day, treating yourself, or just soaking up the atmosphere, the Spring Bazaar is the perfect way to welcome the season. 11am-5pm, bacchuslanding.com

MAY 1-3

Sonoma Valley Authors Festival Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma

An exclusive three-day event that brings together more than 20 celebrated authors, speakers, and moderators — including Dave Barry, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Andrew Ross Sorkin, Maria Semple, Admiral James Stavridis and more. This is a rare opportunity to engage deeply with today’s leading voices through dynamic talks, in-depth conversations, and personal book signings. svauthorsfest.org

MAY 1-5

Cinco De Mayo Bar Crawl

Participating Bars, Napa

5 Days of celebrating featuring Di Campo Tequila! Hit all the bars before Cinco De Mayo is over. Visit Arbaretum, Bitter Bar, 1331, The Q, and Wilfred’s Lounge.

Presented by Napa Cocktail Collective.

HMAY 2

LIVE MUSIC ON THE PIAZZA

Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at Bacchus Landing with Live Music on the Piazza. Bring friends, enjoy tastings, and unwind with great music in the heart of wine country. Wood-fired pizzas will be available for purchase.

12-4pm, bacchuslanding.com

MAY 2

Live Music in the Magnolia Room

Kunde Family Winery, Kenwood

Live music, Kunde wines, and rotating food offerings. 1-4pm, kunde.com

May 2: Jesse Brewster

June 6: Third Rail Band, Tri Tip Trolley

July 11: John Waltz & Christina Lovett

August 1: Third Rail Band

MAY 2

Live Music

Montagne Russe, Petaluma Tami Gosnell (Soulful Acoustic Rock & Stellar Vocals) 5-7pm, russewines.com

MAY 2

Spring Fling 2026

Crocker & Starr, St. Helena

Kickoff spring with a day of savory BBQ, relaxed lawn games, and the first pour of new releases.

It’s “Napa Casual” at its finest: social, spirited, and centered around a shared table.

$75, 11:30am-2:30pm, crockerstarr.com

HMAY 2

GOLDEN STATE STORM

Women’s Professional Tackle Football Laney College Football Field, Oakland

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards is proud to be the Official Wine Partner of the Golden State Storm, the Bay Area’s first-ever women’s professional tackle football team. As part of the partnership, St. Francis is bringing the wines of Sonoma Valley directly to Laney Field in Oakland for three home games! goldenstatestorm.com

MAY 2

Derby Day

Adaptation | Odette Estate Winery, Napa

This festive watch party brings together Southern charm and wine country elegance. Dress in your best Southern Garden Party attire and enjoy exceptional Adaptation and Odette wines alongside chef-prepared bites. $175, 1-4pm plumpjackcollection.com

MAY 2

JUDGMENT OF PARIS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Chardonnay Master Class

Grgich Hills Estate, Rutherford

Taste through a selection of library Chardonnays through the decades of Grgich Hills with winemaker Ivo Jeramaz and Violet Grgich, as well as the brand-new Paris ‘76 Chardonnay, which will be releasing that month as an homage to the 50th anniversary. $95, 10-11:30am, grgich.com

MAY 2

5th Annual Spring Social Hyde Vineyards Estate, Napa

An afternoon filled with live music from local talent Josh Yenne, delicious food prepared by Napa chef The Fancy Savage, fun activities, and, of course, plenty of wine. $128, 2-5pm, hydevineyards.com

HMAY 2

DIAMOND ROAD MUSIC FESTIVAL

Jack’s Lavendar Farm at Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, Lower Lake Live music, adventure, family-fun, great food, and community celebrating the incredible musical talent from Lake County. Local musicians will perform on the main stage throughout the day. From rock and soul to country and Latin rhythms, the lineup reflects the rich musical culture of the region. Guests are encouraged to spend the day exploring the ranch while enjoying nearby experiences at Six Sigma Winery and Huttopia Wine Country. Wander scenic trails, ride bikes, enjoy wine tasting, grab food with friends, or simply relax and listen to music in the wide-open beauty of the farm. $20, $25 day of; 11am-5pm diamondroadmusicfestival.com

MAY 2

11th Annual Derby Party and Discussion Release

Duckhorn Vineyards at Paraduxx, Napa Settle into the day with Southern-inspired bites in partnership with La Saison and Culinary Director Dominic Orsini. No Derby celebration would be complete without a Best Dressed Competition, inviting guests to showcase their finest raceday style — from big hats and fascinators to sport coats and bow ties. $200, 1:30-4:30pm, duckhorn.com

MAY 2

Oak Knoll Spring Tasting Celebration

Bartholomew Estate Winery, Sonoma

An over-the-top day on the Knoll celebrating Spring on the Oak Knoll! Indulge in a wine flight and enjoy food truck treats and live music while soaking in the views of our enchanting estate. $6, 11am-4pm, bartholomewestate.com

HMAY 3

YOGA & WINE

Laird Family Estate, Napa

Grab your mat and start your day off right with morning yoga with Jocelyn Hoar. After you awaken from Savasana, treat yourself to wine and brunch bites. $50, 9:45am-12pm lairdfamilyestate.com

MAY 3

Sunday Bottles & Bites

Sangiacomo Winery, Sonoma

Local caterer Adam Green from Ollie’s Pizza & Baking Co. will be back at Sangiacomo! Adam will be preparing a selection of fresh, wood-fired pizzas all afternoon. Pair his vibrant flavors with a glass or bottle of Sangiacomo wine and settle in for a laid-back Sunday. 11:30am-4:30pm sangiacomowines.com

HMAY 3

BRUNCH & BLUSH

St. Francis Winery, Santa Rosa

Step into spring and savor the season at Brunch and Blush, a whimsical rosé-inspired brunch set against the breathtaking backdrop overlooking Wild Oak Vineyard and Hood Mountain. Gather around the table for a family-style brunch thoughtfully crafted by Executive Chef Peter Janiak. Each dish highlights fresh seasonal ingredients and vibrant flavors, beautifully paired with an artisan selection of St. Francis wines and, of course, plenty of rosé. Brunch and Blush is the perfect excuse to slow down, sip, and savor the beauty of the season. $125, 10:30am-12:30pm, stfranciswinery.com

MAY 3

Italian Brunch & Bocce: Spring Edition

Seghesio Family Vineyard, Healdsburg Indulge in a family-style brunch featuring springinspired pizzas and salads from Diavola.

• B occi Masterclass: Want to upgrade your roll? Bocce Masterclass featuring tips and tricks from some of the sport’s top Sonoma talent.

• Curated Wine Selection • Live Music $125, 11am-1pm, seghesio.com

MAY 6

Aww Shucks, It’s Wednesday! (Oysters & Bubbles)

Davies Vineyards, St. Helena

An oyster enhancement will be available for any of the tasting experiences, including a specially curated flight of three Schramsberg sparkling wines selected for their culinary excellence with fresh oysters. Curated Sparkling Wine Flight: $35 Oysters: $20/half dozen, $35/dozen. 11am-3pm, schramsberg.com, 707-709-4245

WEDNESDAYS MAY 6-SEPTEMBER 16

Accoustic Sunsets

Sonoma Botanical Garden, Glen Ellen

Rotating line up of live music in the Garden’s outdoor amphitheater, local wine tasting, a family-friendly atmosphere inviting picnics and pups, and extended evening access to the Garden.

• May 6: Jacob Phillip Benning

• May 13: Chris Cotruvo

• May 20: Clay Bell

• June 3: Open Mic Night 5:30-7:30pm, sonomabg.org/visit

MAY 7

Barnett Vineyards Wine Dinner

Silverado Resort, Napa

Indulge in the finest regional wines, thoughtfully paired with each course in our monthly wine dinner series, and experience an evening of unforgettable flavors and sophisticated elegance. $225, 6pm, silveradoresort.com

MAY 7

May We11ness Experience

Eleven Eleven Wines, Napa

Intellectual Wellness featuring Alison Levine

Prepare to be inspired by her stories of grit and grace, paired with a conversation designed to sharpen your mind and spirit for the “business” of life. $45, 5:30-7:30pm, elevenelevenwines.com

MAY 9

Trefethen Block Party

Trefethen Family Vineyards, Napa

Come to the very first Block Party celebrating the debut of the all-new “Block Party” red blend and shining a spotlight on the character of the estate vineyards. Stroll through the Villa, glass in hand, and taste how each block expresses its own personality. Live music sets the tone while you mingle, explore, and experience the unique nuances that make the estate wines so special. Think classic block-party fun, elevated by Trefethen charm. $125, 12-3pm, trefethen.com

HMAY 8

THE GRAND BARREL PARTY

Castello di Amorosa, Calistoga

Over 30 Castello wines available for tasting with the winemaking team. Step into the Great Hall for the last chance to taste and purchase select wine futures from the barrel. Enjoy a variety of gourmet, seasonally inspired food stations in the courtyard. Live Music and dancing. $190-$240, 7-10pm, castellodiamorosa.com

HMAY 8

CONVENE + CAVIAR | APÉRO HOUR

Convene, Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg

Taste through the newly released spring wines with Dan Kosta and indulge in Tsar Nicoulai Caviar. The perfect start to Mother’s Day weekend! $75, 5-7pm, bacchuslanding.com

MAY 8

Friday Night Music

Longboard Vineyards, Healdsburg

Music: Junk in the Trunk • Food truck: Adobos N More. 5-7pm, longboardvineyards.com

MAY 8

Sunset Series

MacRostie Estate House, Healdsburg

Enjoy an evening of wine tasting, live music, and a rotating menu of seasonal small plates available for purchase à la carte. $50, 4-6pm, macrostiewinery.com

MAY 9

French Garden Market

Dry Creek Vineyard, Healdsburg

Step into the charm of the French countryside at our French Garden Market. Browse a curated collection of local artisans offering handcrafted treasures — from chic clothing and jewelry to gourmet foods and home goods. Enjoy live music by electric violinist Maya Victoria, who puts a lively spin on modern pop. Delicious bites. $45, 21+, 12-4pm, RSVP drycreekvineyard.com

CALENDAR ■

HMAY

9

LUNCH IN THE VINEYARD

Beaulieu Vineyard, Rutherford

This spring, come to the Rutherford vineyard near BV for an exclusive experience with the Vineyard Manager, learning firsthand about the season and the art of viticulture. Afterward, enjoy a family-style, farm-to-table picnic among the vines with BV wines and serene views, followed by a sweet treat in the Vinyl Room and the opportunity to purchase wines. $145, 10:30am-2pm, bvwines.com

MAY 9

Paint Your Pet

Kunde Family Winery, Kenwood

Enjoy a fun, guided painting experience set against the backdrop of scenic vineyards and leave with a personalized portrait of your favorite pet! The session includes all painting materials plus your first glass of wine. $100, 2-4pm, kunde.com

HMAY 9

LUNCH IN THE VINEYARD: CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF ST. HELENA HOME VINEYARD

Beringer Vineyards, St. Helena

Come for an unforgettable Lunch in the Vineyard — a sensory journey that brings you back to the roots of where it all began. Wander through the very vines that shaped the legacy, taste the wines that made them iconic, and dine where tradition and terroir meet. beringer.com

MAY 9

Vino & Vibes Patio Party

Rutherford Ranch Winery, St. Helena

Sip new release wines, savor tacos by Taco Addiction, and vibe to live DJ beats by DJ Mark Byrd! Be among the first to sample the new release 2025 Rosé. 12-3pm, $40 rutherfordranch.com

MAY 9

JUDGMENT OF PARIS

50TH ANNIVERSARY

Among the Vines: A Paris Tasting Vineyard Tour & Luncheon

Bacigalupi Vineyards, Healdsburg

Return to where it all began — among the vines of the historic Paris Tasting Block, which supplied 40% of the Chardonnay poured at the legendary 1976 tasting. Join the Bacigalupi family and winemaker Ashley Herzberg for an intimate vineyard walk through the Paris Tasting Vineyard, with thoughtfully selected wines along the way. Includes a seasonal farm-to-table luncheon. 11am-2pm, bacigalupivineyards.com

�� MAY 9

Spring Wreath Making Class

Bricoleur Vineyards, Windsor

Guided by Samantha of Peony & Pineapple, this floral-forward experience is the perfect way to spend time with your mom, friends, or loved ones while sipping wine and welcoming the season. Includes two glasses of wine. $125, 11am-1pm bricoleurvineyards.com

MAY 9

Live Music

Montagne Russe, Petaluma Brothers of Siren (acoustic rock, soul and blues) 5-7pm, russewines.com

�� MAY 10

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

VJB Cellars, Kenwood

Enjoy Italian brunch, Prosecco, chocolates, and gelato ... everything Mom loves, all in one place. Celebrate her the right way! No reservations needed. Available all day. 707-833-2300

�� MAY 9

Lawn Party

Imagery Winery, Glen Ellen

Enjoy an afternoon filled with live music, local food trucks, lawn games, and of course, delicious wine! Cool off with a frosé drink, including a nonalcoholic option. Complimentary admission, wine by the glass and food available for purchase. Food available on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP not required. Book a picnic table for premium reserved seating. Family-friendly event, leashed dogs OK. Featuring: Phat Salads and Wraps DJ Z – rock out to ’80s hits, classic rock, and current favorites. 12-3pm imagerywinery.com

MAY 9

Morning Hike and Tasting at the Ridge Pine Ridge Vineyards, Napa Embark on a guided “grape-to-glass” journey that begins with artisan trail treats before ascending into the dramatically terraced hillside vineyards. Moderate hike, $100, 9:30-11am pineridgevineyards.com

HMAY 9 & 10

SAUVIGNON BLANC RELEASE & CLUB PICK UP

Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, Lower Lake sixsigmaranch.com

�� MAY 9-10

MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND TASTING Convene, Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a classic duo, popcorn and Chardonnay. The perfect pair for the ones we love! As a thank you, mothers receive a complimentary glass of Chardonnay upon arrival. bacchuslanding.com

�� MAY 10

Mother’s Day Reserve Brunch Bartholomew Estate Winery, Sonoma Give her a stress-free Mother’s Day with a reserved table, gorgeous views, gourmet picnic brunch, wine, and flowers. Catered by Preferred Sonoma Caterers. $150, $35 ages 3-10 bartholomewestate.com

�� MAY 10

Made with Love – Paint & Sip

Miner Family Winery, Napa

Relax and unwind with a guided painting class led by a local instructor. No experience needed. All supplies are provided, along with delicious Miner Wines to enjoy as you paint, sip, and laugh. $65, 2-4pm, minerwines.com

�� MAY 10

A Mother’s Day High Tea Fête

Clif Family Winery, St. Helena

Handmade scones, biscuits, and tea sandwiches will be paired with Clif Family wines, as well as tea, coffee, and sweets from Madeleine’s Macarons and Rory’s Bakehouse. Includes a flight featuring of new wine releases $100. Limited, book now! cliffamily.com

�� MAY 10

Mother’s Day Bouquets & Rosé Azur Wine, Napa

Children can craft a beautiful bouquet for their mothers. Each ticket includes a splash of refreshing Azur Rosé for the mom to sip and enjoy while the little ones create their floral masterpiece. $30, 12-4pm, azurwines.com

�� MAY 10

Mother’s Day Candle Making Class & Our Lady of the Rosary Rosé Release

Trinitas Cellars, Napa

Come for a hands-on candle-making experience paired with a new wine release, Our Lady of the Rosary Rosé. Guided by a local artisan, you’ll explore the art of candle making — from understanding soy wax and wicking to fragrance blending and finishing techniques. $85, 2-4pm, trinitascellars.com

�� MAY 10

A Mother’s Day High Tea Fête

Clif Family Winery, St. Helena

Handmade scones, biscuits, and tea sandwiches will be paired with Clif Family wines, as well as tea and coffee from local roaster, Naysayer Coffee, and sweets from local friends Madeleine’s Macarons and Rory’s Bakehouse. Includes a wine tasting flight featuring new spring wine releases $100. Limited, book now! cliffamily.com

�� MAY 10

Mother’s Day Pairing

You Didn’t See Coming

Hanson of Sonoma Distillery, Sonoma

• Lobster rolls from Cousins Maine Lobster

• Teaser flights of vibrant mini cocktails: Lemon Drop, Ginger Refresher & Cucumber Spritz

• Garden-inspired garnishes hansonofsonoma.com

MAY 11-17

Judgment of Paris Anniversary Week

CIA at Copia, Napa

A full week of tastings, panels, and culinary experiences explores the impact of the 1976 event and the evolution of Napa Valley’s global reputation.

The week-long festivities at CIA at Copia will bring the spirit of 1976 to life through a multitude of must-attend (dare we say, FOMO) offerings including:

• I mmersive French-inspired culinary classes such as specially curated Californian vs. French cuisine and our always-sold-out

“Inside Julia’s Kitchen”

• M ovie nights (with wine, of course) including the highly entertaining, Bottle Shock comedic storyline of the Judgment of Paris

• M arché aux Puces (French flea market)

• Exclusive showing of Master Sommelier

Andrea Immer Robinson’s Judgment of Paris documentary and panel discussion with winemakers including Robert Mondavi and Beaulieu Vineyards

• G olden Grande Tasting Finale featuring dozens of wineries from across Napa’s 17 AVAs including Judgment of Paris’ winners, Chateau Montelena and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, along with Freemark Abbey, Domaine Carneros, Taittinger, St. Supery, and many, many, more

This is not just a look back at a historic win; it is a toast to the enduring excellence and collaborative spirit that defines Napa today. ciaatcopia.com/judgment-of-paris-50thanniversary

MAY 13

Sip & Support: Soroptimist St. Helena

Sunrise + Street Food Menu & Live Music

Clif Family Winery, St. Helena

Globally inspired street food. Benefits Soroptimist St. Helena Sunrise. Available 11:30am-6:30pm. Live music. cliffamily.com

HMAY 15

WINEMAKER DINNER SERIES: BALLETTO VINEYARDS

with John & Terri Balletto Bay View Restaurant & Lounge, Inn at the Tides, Bodega Bay

This intimate and relaxed setting is the ideal backdrop for this monthly “Dinner with the Winemaker” series. It’s the perfect opportunity to talk one-on-one with winemakers all while enjoying a variety of award-winning wines and locally grown foods. Special room rates available for winemaker dinner guests. innatthetides.com, caall 707-875-2751 or email: reservations@innatthetides.com

MAY 15

Rhinefarm Afterhours

Gundlach Bundschu Winery, Sonoma

An evening of wine, music and community. Each month brings a new wine theme, a guest host and vinyl sets from Andy Cabic. Tickets include a glass wine and a legendary Rhinefarm sunset. Additional wine and food available for purchase. Third Friday of each month. $20, 5-8pm, www.gunbun.com

MAY 15-16

Salute to American Graffiti –Car Show & Cruise

Downtown Petaluma

Featuring American model cars 1972 or older at the annual Salute to American Graffiti Car Show. This event features show parking on the streets of historic Downtown Petaluma, the same street featured in the film, old time live radio DJ, food vendors. Cars will “cruise the Boulevard” following the car show, at 4pm, americangraffiti.net

HMAY 15

Y2K MUSIC BINGO REMIX

Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville

Come for an evening filled with all your favorite hits from the early 2000s — think throwback jams, singalong moments, and a little friendly competition. Play along for a chance to win prizes while enjoying delicious bites from The Kitchen, along with wines available by the glass or bottle. Feeling nostalgic? Come dressed in your best 2000s-inspired outfit for a shot at extra prizes and ultimate bragging rights. Grab your friends, brush up on your playlists, and get ready for a fun, high-energy night you won’t want to miss! $10 deposit applied to beverage purchases. 6:30-8:30pm priestranchwines.com/visit

HMAY 16

BATTLE OF THE BLENDS

Alexander Valley Vineyards,Healdsburg

Have you ever dreamed about making your own wine? AVV’s Battle of the Blends is your chance to join a team, sample components, and then create a blend you think is a winner. Winemaker Kevin Hall will guide you through the process, then select the top blend. The winning team’s name will be featured on the next vintage of our Wine Club Reserve, and each member of the team will receive a magnum of Sin Zin. The blending competition is followed by a casual family-style lunch on the Wetzel Family garden patio. avvwine.com

MAY 16

Paella with Peju

Peju Winery, Rutherford

Watch Peju chefs prepare two authentic paellas in giant pans over an open flame. Savor a feast with food-friendly wines, and cap off the evening with live music. $185, 6:30-9pm, peju.com

HMAY 16

SPRING 2026 WINE TRAIL

Participating Wine Road Wineries, Northern Sonoma County

Enjoy a relaxed day of wine tasting, featuring a curated selection of whites, rosés, and sparkling wines. Perfectly paired for patio parties, beach outings, and fun-filled moments with friends, these wines are sure to set the tone for a vibrant spring season. For just $50, enjoy a day of exploring 20 incredible wineries, discovering hidden gems, and savoring delightful wines — all without the hassle of extra fees or reservations. wineroad.com/events/wine-trail

HMAY 16

SONOMA VALLEY

WESTERN RESERVE

Roots, Boots & the Best Wines in the West Wing & Barrel Ranch, Sonoma

A new premium wine experience that brings together passionate wine enthusiasts and collectors from across the Greater Bay Area seeking rare wines and insider access to Sonoma Valley’s vintners. Sip rare reserve labels poured by the vintners themselves, paired with signature cocktails, live music, and a hearty ranch-style dinner. Add-ons include clay shooting, fishing, casting, and archery. Connect with the valley’s most storied vintners and growers for a night defined by great wine and unforgettable characters. All proceeds benefit the Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Foundation. Claim your spot on the range! $250-$2500+ vvgf.ejoinme.org/WesternReserve

HMAY 16

YOUNTVILLE SIP & STROLL

Downtown Yountville

70+ juried artists showcasing sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewelry, etc. Live music. Free to attend. $50 tasting package; 20 participating wineries. Local food vendors. 11am-5pm artsipstroll.com

MAY 16

Spring Release Event: Camp Pritchard

Chappellet Vineyard, St. Helena

Pack your flannel, gather your camp crew, and gather at The Meadow for an unforgettable afternoon at “Camp Pritchard” at Chappellet — a nostalgic celebration of spring’s arrival, great wine, and time well spent together. $155 12-3pm, chappellet.com/spring-release

MAY 16

“Set Sail” – Spring Release Party

Schramsberg Vineyards, Calistoga

Spring Release Party featuring inspired pairings that highlight California’s coastal bounty and flavors, alongside acclaimed sparkling and still wines. $370, 11am-2pm, schramsberg.com

MAY 16

Neighborhood Table

Adams Street at Library Lane, St. Helena

Set against the stunning backdrop of mountains and vineyards, this will be an unforgettable evening featuring an al fresco dinner by Chef Nash Cognetti, live music by Max Minardi, great company, and a shared commitment to expanding access to healthcare across Napa Valley. 5-9pm, shhfoundation.org

MAY 16

Cheese & Wine Flight

Ty Caton Vineyards, Kenwood

Enjoy a curated selection of local cheeses expertly paired with Ty Caton wines to highlight complementary flavors and textures. Part of a monthly pop-up tasing with a new theme each month. tycaton.com

MAY 16-17

PIZZA & WINE JUG WEEKEND

Wellington Cellars, Glen Ellen

Pizza & Jug is back on select weekends! Your excuse to enjoy wood-fired pizza and a bottle of the signature Jug Wine. No reservations, no fuss, just great wine, delicious pizza, and even better company – see you there! 11am-4pm, 707-934-8604, wellingtoncellars.com

HMAY 17

LOBSTER LUNCH

Corner 103, Sonoma

Enjoy an elegant Lobster Lunch – a refined five-course experience showcasing lobster in seasonal preparations, thoughtfully paired with Corner 103 award-winning wines for a luxurious afternoon together of food and wine. Once again, the talented team at the Girl & the Fig’s Suite D will prepare a five-course lunch, four of which will feature Lobster prepared four different ways! Each course will be paired with Corner 103’s award-winning wines and will express the unique flavors of lobster.

$150, 12-3pm, corner103.com

MAY 17

Taste of Atlas Peak

Silverado Resort, Napa

Explore a curated selection of Atlas Peak wines known for their depth, structure, and high- elevation character. Enjoy gourmet culinary creations showcasing seasonal ingredients and the artistry of Napa Valley cuisine. $135.23, 1-4pm, atlaspeakappellation.com

MAY 17

Sonoma Rosé Wine Fest

MacRostie Winery & Vineyards, Healdsburg

Come dressed in pink and enjoy two dozen wineries poouring their latest rosé wines at this stunning location surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Live music, light bites and surprises. outinthevineyard.com

MAY 17

Spritz Garden Party

Chandon, Yountville Garden party season is back! Celebrate with the new CHANDON Spritz. Come to enjoy the sun and the new flavors of spritz in the Chandon Garden. $36, 10am-3pm, chandon.com

MAY 17

Grove 45 May High Tea Grove 45, Calistoga

Enjoy a High Tea in the tasting room blending your own tea accompanied by scones, sandwiches, and decadent desserts. Museion wines are available for an additional charge. $73+, 2-4pm, grove45.com

MAY 17

Lasseter Lounge

Lasseter Family Winery, Glen Ellen

Relax in a picturesque vineyard setting with live music by Steve Pile. Purchase delicious offerings from Chad’s Soup Shack, and Lasseter wines by the bottle, and enjoy a laid-back wine country experience that captures the spirit of Glen Ellen. $15, lasseterfamilywinery.com

MAY 20

Sip & Support: Family Dog Rescue + Street Food Menu & Live Music

Clif Family Winery, St. Helena

Globally inspired street food. Benefits Family Dog Rescue. Available 11:30am-6:30pm. Live music. cliffamily.com

MAY 21

Third Thursdays

Markham Vineyards, St. Helena

Live music, local food favorites (available for purchase), and bold wines at the historic Stone Cellar. Family and dog friendly. 5:30-7:30pm markhamvineyards.com

MAY 22

Vintage & Vinyl

Hourglass Winery, Calistoga

Sip and savor extraordinary pours from Schramsberg and Davies Vineyards – featuring elegant bubbles and beautifully crafted reds, Chardonnays and other offerings while Argentinian born DJ Alberto spins a curated soundtrack of soul and reggae from vinyl — bringing warmth, groove, and a little nostalgia to the afternoon — pair it all with delicious food offerings. $250, 11am-2pm, schramsberg.com

MAY 22-24

Vino & Vibes Weekend

Trefethen Family Vineyards, Napa Stop by for this drop-in pre-party where the wine flows by the glass or bottle. Pair it all with a live DJ and a delicious spread of snacks, and you’ve got the perfect warm-up for an unforgettable weekend. No reservations — just walk in, sip, snack, and vibe! Bottlerock attendee? Enjoy $5 glasses of wine by showing your wristband! trefethen.com

MAY 23

Morning Hike and Tasting at the Ridge

Pine Ridge Vineyards, Napa

Embark on a guided “grape-to-glass” journey that begins with artisan trail treats before ascending into the dramatically terraced hillside vineyards. Moderate hike, $100, 9:30-11am pineridgevineyards.com

MAY 29

Pasta Class – Pasta Duos

Bricoleur Vineyards, Windsor

Explore the beauty of contrast with the art of pasta duos – a technique that joins two uniquely flavored or colored doughs into one stunning piece. Learn how to roll, layer, and shape pastas that blend color and taste in perfect harmony, resulting in ribbons and patterns that are both eye-catching and delicious. Includes pasta dinner. $125, 5pm, bricoleurvineyards.com

MAY 29

Friday Summer Music Series

Ballentine Vineyards, St. Helena

Relax on the vineyard terrace with live music and Ballentine wine. Wine is available to purchase by the bottle or glass. $35, 4-7pm ballentinevineyards.com

MAY 30

THE JUDGMENT OF PARIS 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Grgich Hills Estate, St. Helena

50 years ago, at the historic Judgment of Paris, the world of wine was changed forever. At the forefront of that revolution stood Miljenko ‘Mike’ Grgich, the winemaker behind the famous 1973 Chardonnay that beat the very best wines of France for the first time in history. You’re invited to celebrate this momentous occasion with a reception-style event featuring delectable bites and an eclectic selection of wines. Attendees will be among the first to be able to try a brand new release: 2023 Paris ‘76 Chardonnay! This wine, made in the same style as Mike Grgich’s world-changing Chardonnay, is graced with a brand new label honoring the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris. $100, 1-4pm, grgich.com

MAY 30

Shafer x PRESS Restaurant: ‘Past, Present & Futures’ Dinner

Shafer Vineyards, Napa

Discover a Michelin-level dinner celebrating the Past, Present, and ‘Futures’ of the estate. $580, 5:30-9pm, exploretock.com/shafervineyards

MAY 30

Rosé Pool Party

Marimar Estate, Sebastopol

Come for a fun-filled afternoon celebrating the release of the 2025 Rosé of Tempranillo! Live music by Jon Gonzales and an assortment of tapas. $95, 12-4pm, marimarestate.com

HMAY 22

SIP & SOLVE TRIVIA NIGHT –

An Evening of Wine, Wit, and Friendly Rivalry

St. Francis Winery, Santa Rosa

Put your knowledge to the test, and your wine glass to good use, at our Sip & Solve, our lively trivia night hosted in the heart of the Sonoma Valley. Complimentary grazing table of fresh, seasonal spring bites. Free admission. 5-7pm stfranciswinery.com

HMAY 31

SUNDAY WITH THE TENORS

VJB Cellars, Kenwood

Enjoy live Italian opera on the piazza while savoring wood-fired pizza, fresh bites from our deli, and your favorite VJB wines. Take a stroll through our marketplace, grab a scoop of gelato, and browse our gift shops along the way. No reservations required - just come, sip, and stay awhile! 1-1:45pm, 707-833-2300, vjbcellars.com

HJUNE 5

GRAIL BY DAN KOSTA | APÉRO HOUR

Grail Wine Collection

Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg

Born from Dan’s lifelong pursuit of Pinot Noir excellence, Grail is his personal project, building on lessons from Kosta Browne. Dan seeks pristine vineyards and top resources to craft wines of purity and purpose. Each wine is made carefully, with Dan and winemaker Shane Finley choosing grapes and barrels to showcase California’s top vineyards — Dan’s take on the state’s “Grand Cru.” $75, 5-7pm, bacchuslanding.com

JUNE 5

Sunset Series

MacRostie Estate House, Healdsburg

Each first Friday of the month, enjoy an evening of complimentary wine tasting, live music, and a rotating menu of seasonal small plates available for purchase à la carte. $50, 4-6pm macrostiewinery.com

JUNE 5

Friday Night Music

Longboard Vineyards, Healdsburg

Music: Used Goods • Food truck: Casa Nostra Pizza Wines by the bottle or glass. Food sold separately. 5-7pm, longboardvineyards.com

HJUNE 6

LIVE MUSIC ON THE PIAZZA

Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with Live Music on the Piazza. Bring friends, enjoy tastings, and unwind with great music in the heart of wine country. Wood-fired pizzas will be available for purchase. 12-4pm, bacchuslanding.com

JUNE 6

Live Music in the Magnolia Room

Kunde Family Winery, Kenwood

Live music, Kunde wines, and rotating food offerings. 1-4pm, kunde.com

June 6: Third Rail Band, Tri Tip Trolley

HJUNE 6-7

LAKE COUNTY WINE ADVENTURE

Participating Wineries, Lake County

Hit the road for the 2026 Lake County Wine Adventure — two days of tasting, exploring, and celebrating across participating wineries throughout the county. Cruise scenic backroads, discover exclusive pours, and meet the winemakers behind every glass.

$42.99, $16.74 designated driver, 11am-5pm lakecountywineries.org

HJUNE 7

SUMMER RELEASE PARTY

Corner 103, Sonoma

This relaxed seasonal celebration is all about enjoying new releases, warm-weather wines, and time spent with fellow members and the Corner 103 team. Taste through the latest wines, pick up your allocation, and enjoy the easygoing energy of summer in Sonoma. Whether you’re lingering with a glass or stopping in briefly, this event offers a flexible and welcoming way to experience the new releases. A complimentary Wine Club Pickup event created exclusively for 103 Club family. Not a member? Join now! corner103.com

HJUNE 7

CALISTOGA FOOD & WINE

Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley, Calistoga An afternoon walk-around tasting featuring nearly 30 Calistoga wineries, standout local cuisine, and live music. Enjoy curated bites from leading local restaurants, and experience live music throughout the afternoon. $175-$190, 11am calistogawinegrowers.com/events

HJUNE 12

WINEMAKER DINNER SERIES: HONIG VINEYARDS AND WINERY with Steve & Annika Honig

Bay View Restaurant & Lounge, Inn at the Tides, Bodega Bay

This intimate and relaxed setting is the ideal backdrop for this monthly “Dinner with the Winemaker” series. It’s the perfect opportunity to talk one-on-one with winemakers all while enjoying a variety of award-winning wines and locally grown foods. Special room rates available for winemaker dinner guests. innatthetides.com, caall 707-875-2751 or email: reservations@innatthetides.com

JUNE 12

Friday Summer Music Series

Ballentine Vineyards, St. Helena

Relax on the vineyard terrace with live music and Ballentine wine. Wine is available to purchase by the bottle or glass. $35, 4-7pm ballentinevineyards.com

JUNE 13

STANDUP COMEDY NIGHT

Beringer Vineyards, St. Helena

Get ready to laugh where the magic happens. Join us for an unforgettable Comedy Night in Beringer’s Fermentation Room, featuring live stand-up performances set within our historic winery. Your ticket includes one glass of Beringer wine, the perfect pairing for a night of big laughs and great vibes.6-9pm, beringer.com

HJUNE 13

LAKE COUNTY WINEFEST (BEER TOO!) Library Park, Lakeport

Home wine and beer makers and local commercial wineries will supply tastes of their creations. “Making Wine for Music” this yearly fundraiser supports the Lake County Symphony Association. The popular Wine Barrel Raffle drawing will award two lucky winners 24 bottles of Lake County wines. Stop by and meet Conductor John Parkinson at the Symphony booth for the whole story. Live music will be on hand. Wine and beer tasters can get advance tickets now for $30 or pay $35 at the gate. Not into wine? Or beer? Admission is free to shop and enjoy the many wonderful arts, crafts booths and food supplied by local vendors. Visit the Silent Auction and bid on a variety of special items–donated by local businesses and other symphony supporters. lakecountywinefest.com

Winery & Vineyards

Steve Ledson comes from a long line of Sonoma County farmers and winemakers dating back to the 1860s. More than a winemaker or viticulturist, Steve is a true vigneron — the French term for one who does both, he walks the vineyards, tends each vine with sustainable, time-honored practices, and oversees every step of winemaking. His hands-on dedication yields expressive, place-driven wines that reflect the character of Sonoma. Designed and built by Steve, the iconic Castle winery is considered one of the world’s most impressive. Enjoy private and seated tastings. Reserve a table by the fireplace or in the West Oak Grove, and explore the Gourmet Marketplace’s selection of artisanal cheeses, meats, sandwiches, salads, and treats.

Perched at 2,500 feet in the Moon Mountain District, Mountain Terraces is Ledson’s dramatic Estate Vineyard known for world-class wines and sweeping views of Sonoma Valley and the Bay Area. Extreme elevation, distinctive soils, and meticulous sustainable farming create intensely expressive wines available exclusively through an annual allocation. Guests can also book guest houses with stunning vineyard and Bay Area views.

Located on the Historic Sonoma Plaza, this six-room boutique hotel was named one of the 100 Hottest New Hotals globally and one of the 9 Best Hotels in Sonoma County for Wine Tasting and Wellness Getaway by Condé Nast Traveler. Designed and built by Steve Ledson, it blends timeless luxury with personalized service. Rooms feature Whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, private balconies, and marble amenities. Wrap your day up at the Zina Lounge. Taste meticulously handcrafted and award-winning wines from Zina Hyde Cunningham, Mountain Terraces and Ledson wineries while watching the sunset from the sidewalk seating, or relaxing in the lounge by the fireplace.

■ LAKE COUNTY

NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League Races Continue at Six Sigma Ranch, May 16-17

Each spring, the rugged trails of Six Sigma Ranch transform into a highenergy race venue as student-athletes from across Northern California gather for the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League season. What unfolds over race weekend is more than competition — it’s a celebration of youth cycling, community, and the next generation of outdoor leadership.

The NorCal League, the first high school mountain bike league in the United States, has grown into one of the largest and most influential youth cycling organizations in the country, emphasizing inclusivity, teamwork, and personal growth alongside competition.

A Natural Fit:

NorCal

Racing at Six Sigma

Six Sigma Ranch has long been a natural partner for NorCal racing. Racing at Six Sigma Ranch began in 2017, quickly becoming a cornerstone venue for the league. With its expansive terrain, varied elevations, and working ranch landscape, the property offers an ideal course for developing riders to test endurance, technical skill, and strategy.

NorCal League races, often branded as events like the “Six Sigma Slinger,” have been hosted at the ranch for years and have become a staple stop on the race calendar. These events bring together student-athletes from across multiple regions, creating one of the most dynamic and wellattended race weekends of the season.

The Scale of Participation

What makes these events truly remarkable is their scale. NorCal League races routinely draw roughly one thousand student-athletes across middle school and high school divisions, alongside coaches, families, and volunteers.

Across the league as a whole, participation has grown dramatically

over the years, reflecting the rising popularity of youth mountain biking and the strength of NorCal’s programming.

At Six Sigma specifically, race weekends typically see:

• Large, multi-category race fields throughout the day

• D ozens of teams representing communities across Northern California

• 'A strong presence of coaches, volunteers, and family supporters

More Than a Race

While the competition is exciting, what stands out most at Six Sigma is the atmosphere. Riders cheer each other on across team lines, families line the course, and volunteers help create a safe, supportive environment. This aligns directly with the NorCal League’s mission: building “strong body, mind, character, and community” through cycling.

For many student-athletes, racing at Six Sigma is a highlight of their season; a place where hard work meets wide-open space, and where personal milestones are achieved one lap at a time.

A Lasting Partnership

The continued partnership between Six Sigma Ranch and the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League reflects a shared commitment to land stewardship, youth development, and outdoor recreation. Each race not only showcases the landscape of the ranch but also reinforces its role as a gathering place for communitydriven events. As the league continues to grow, Six Sigma remains an essential part of that story; hosting races that inspire young riders and leave a lasting impact long after the finish line.

■ SONOMA VALLEY

Savor the Season: Springtime Sipping in Sonoma

Spring in Sonoma Valley reveals its own kind of magic with vineyards painted in vibrant greens, wildflowers lining the roads, and long, sunlit afternoons that ease into cool, golden evenings. This is the season to sip al fresco, wander from winery to winery, and soak in the fresh, lively rhythm of wine country as it awakens. From the laid-back charm of Passaggio Wines to the storybook grandeur of Ledson Winery & Vineyards, Sonoma’s wineries feel especially alive this time of year.

Passaggio Wines, nestled in Glen Ellen’s historic Jack London Village, is the perfect place to begin. This shared tasting space showcases a rotating lineup of local Sonoma producers, inviting guests to sample wines by the glass or bottle in a relaxed, open-air setting. With crisp whites and fresh rosés in the spotlight, it’s an easygoing place to linger and take in the season.

For a more personal experience, Dane Cellars offers handcrafted small-lot wines with the added bonus of oneon-one connection with the winemaker. Spring’s slower pace — just before the height of summer crowds — allows for deeper conversations and a closer look at the stories behind each varietal.

Wellington Cellars captures the essence of the season with its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and beautifully

balanced wines. Tastings often extend outdoors, where fresh air and vineyard views elevate every pour.

At VJB Cellars, wine meets the bright flavors of the season. The on-site Italian kitchen serves fresh, seasonal dishes and rustic pizzas that pair effortlessly with lively, fruit-forward wines — perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Few places feel as transportive as Ledson Winery & Vineyards in spring and early summer. Its dramatic stone architecture is framed by lush greenery and rugged mountain. Enjoy a tasting on the terrace with a cheese or charcuterie plate, surrounded by the beauty of the vineyards in full bloom.

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards offers a polished yet relaxed experience ideal for the season. Guests can enjoy curated wine and food pairings on scenic patios, where vineyard views and attentive hospitality create an effortless sense of escape. Plan ahead and book an unforgettable eco-friendly, pedal-powered trolley tour through the vineyard.

Spring and early summer wine tasting in Sonoma Valley is all about renewal, color, and connection. With fresh green landscapes, open-air tastings, and wines that dazzle in the sunshine, the season invites visitors to slow down, savor every sip, and experience wine country at its most vibrant.

Visit Glen Ellen

The small and charming town of Glen Ellen offers visitors a perfect blend of history, wine, and natural beauty. While sometimes overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, this laid-back destination provides an authentic wine country experience without the crowds. A day in Glen Ellen is best spent exploring its scenic landscapes, discovering its vibrant local businesses, and, of course, sampling world-class wines.

■ SONOMA PLAZA

Taste Elegant, Site-Driven Wines from Platt Vineyard

Platt Vineyard Tasting Salon offers a refined, quietly compelling introduction to one of the Sonoma Coast’s most respected vineyard sites. It’s a space that feels both contemporary and rooted — where clean design, natural textures, and a sense of calm allow the wines to take center stage.

Platt Vineyard itself sits far to the west, near the Pacific’s cooling influence, but here on the Plaza, guests can explore its distinctive personality without leaving town. Known for meticulously farmed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the vineyard has built a reputation among winemakers for producing fruit of exceptional balance and character. The tasting salon brings that story forward, translating coastal terroir into an intimate, accessible experience.

Seated tastings are the norm, encouraging guests to slow down and engage. Knowledgeable hosts guide visitors through a curated lineup, often highlighting subtle differences in clone, block, and vintage. The Chardonnays show precision and energy — think citrus blossom, green apple, and a saline edge — while the Pinot Noirs lean into red berry, earth, and spice, with structure that speaks to the site’s wind-swept conditions.

What sets the experience apart is its focus. This isn’t a broad portfolio tasting; it’s a deep dive into a single vineyard’s voice. For wine enthusiasts, that level of specificity is a rare treat, offering insight into how farming decisions and microclimates shape what’s in the glass. For casual visitors, it’s simply an opportunity to taste elegant, site-driven wines in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.

The salon’s location makes it an ideal stop during a day exploring Sonoma. After a stroll past boutiques and historic buildings or a leisurely lunch nearby, slipping into Platt feels like discovering a hidden layer of the region’s wine culture— one that values nuance over spectacle.

In a destination known for abundance, the Platt Vineyard Tasting Salon stands out by doing less, exceptionally well. It’s a place where the conversation is as thoughtful as the wines, and where a single vineyard’s story unfolds, glass by glass, in the heart of Sonoma.

HISTORIC SONOMA PLAZA

Sonoma County Wineries & Tasting Rooms

Rockpile

DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG TASTING ROOMS

Blanchard Family Wines

BloodRoot Wines

Breathless Sparkling Wines

Cartograph Wines

Coursey Graves

Devil Proof Vineyards

Ehret Family Winery

Foley Society: Healdsburg

G&C Lurton

Gordian Knot

Hartford Family

Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery

Hirsch Tasting Room

Hudson Street Wineries:

• Burnside Road

• Owl Ridge

• Shippey Vineyards

• Willowbrook

Je Cohn Cellars

La Follette Wines

Lioco Wine Company

Longboard Vineyards Malm Cellars

Marine Layer

Matt Smith/Grapeseed Meeker Vineyards

Murphy-Goode Old Roma Station:

Cole Ranch

Es Okay

Hart’s Desire Wines • Leo Steen Wines • Pezzi King Vineyards

Rootdown

Sapphire Hill Winery

Portalupi

Ramey Wine Cellars

Roadhouse Winery

Rockpile Vineyards

Sanglier Cellars

Seghesio

Selby

Siduri

Spicy Vines

Stephen & Walker

Stressed Vines Cellars

Thumbprint

Truett Hurst Winery

Williamson

Sonoma

Malm

Gordian

DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG

Ehret Family/G&C Lurton

Jeff Cohn

Follette BloodRoot Idlewild

Williamson Wines

Rockpile Vineyards

GEYSERVILLE

ST. HELENA

LOS CARNEROS

YOUNTVILLE

Napa Valley Wineries & Tasting Rooms

Exploring DOWNTOWN NAPA

NAPA RIVER

Bazan Cellars/MaCo

Palisades

MAIN STREET

T Vine

Wilfred’s Lounge Bounty Hunter Boho Lifestyle Allegria

Starbucks

Vermeil Back Room Wines

Don Perico

Jax Diner

Napa Noodles/Eiko’s Poke Bar

Miyamo

Inti

Napa Cigars

Anthropologie

Overland

Brown Estate

Pera Rug

Archer Hotel Lululemon Free People

Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar

Charlie Palmer Steak

Compline

Milo & Friends Pet Boutique Cupcake Childrens

Habituate

Napa Valley Distillery ArBaretum

COOMBS STREET BROWN STREET

Shadowbox

Rebel Vintners

Goodman Library

Kalifornia Jean Bar State & 1st Mecox Makers Market

Fess Parker

Mia Carta

Napastak

Alpha Omega Collective

Bougie Napa Afterwords Wine

The Perfect Provenance

The Bennington

Honey Whiskey Boutique Riza Blue Diamond Jewelers I•elle

Vineyard 29

Eiko’s Sushi

Copperfields

FRANKLIN STREET RANDOLPH STREET

Annette’s Chocolate & Ice Cream

Napa Valley 1st & Franklin Antiques on 2nd Outland Outer Space Wines Cadet

STREET SEMINARY STREET

SCHOOL STREET

SHOPPING

DINING

Los Agaves Napa – Authentic Mexican food

Morimoto Asia – Inventive, high-end Japanese fare & artful cocktails

Morimoto Napa – Western/Japanese cuisine by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto

Waterfront Seafood Grill – Fresh, quality seafood restaurant

ÆRENA Gallery – Contemporary art and sculpture; curiosities old and new

Helen Lyall – Some of the greatest designer clothing, shoes & accessories

Scott Lyall clothes for men – One-on-one experience that fits everyone’s lifestyle

Shoppe Twelve – Boutique clothing for every style

Sidestreet – Travel/shaving accessories, fine cigars, custom suits/shirts

SPECIALTY

Napa Valley Roasting Company – Freshly roasted specialty coffee

Zuniga Optical – Luxury eye care shop

Celebrating 50 Years of Flavor & Connection

• CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED WINES

• TOURS & TASTINGS

• WINE & FOOD PAIRINGS

• SUSTAINABLY FARMED ESTATES

• CULINARY MARKETPLACE

• ARTISAN DELI

• PICNIC GROUNDS

• WEDDINGS & EVENTS 1111 WHITE LANE, ST. HELENA, CA 94574

707.963.7774 | VSATTUI.COM