How to do a Sonoma Wine Weekend Right

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Nick Stutts
Curated By

Nick Stutts

  • Sonoma

  • Food & Wine

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Vineyard

Advisor - How to do a Sonoma Wine Weekend Right
Curator’s statement

Sonoma Valley offers all the wine, luxury accommodations, and scenery that often attracts people to Napa Valley, but with so much more character and charm! You will have no shortage of tasting rooms right on the Sonoma Plaza or head up the valley to experience wineries with breathtaking architecture and scenery. Of course, no wine weekend is complete without amazing food to go with it. And Sonoma has no shortage of eateries that source their food locally in hopes of sharing their own unique food traditions with you.

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Where to stay in Sonoma, California

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Things to do in Sonoma, California

Beautiful modern architecture at Auteur Wines

Hamel Family Wines

Visit this self-made wine family at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains for breathtaking views and enjoying volcanic terrier-driven wines. Book the Estate Experience to tour the facility or splurge for the Chef’s Experience to indulge in bites from the executive chef.

Auteur Bungalow

This tasting room (just a block from the plaza) in downtown Sonoma boasts some of the best Pinot Noir from Sonoma County. The grapes are grown sustainably and with a passion for showcasing Northern California’s take on French-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Hanzell Vineyards

Take in a flight of Rhone-inspired blends not often found in Sonoma while at this relaxed bohemian spot known for its place off the beaten path in Glen Ellen. After sampling the offerings, take a look through the Mercantile on-site that prioritizes locally, sustainably made, female-run businesses.

Obsidian Base Camp Tasting Room

Obsidian is committed to wine making that highlights the unique terroir of volcanic soil vineyards. Hidden in plain sight just off the plaza, you can enjoy the stylish interior or garden outside while sipping these one-of-a-kind wines.

Shopping on the Plaza

Between tastings, take a stroll around the plaza and discover unique finds, including categories such as vintage, cooking, coffee, art galleries, and menswear.

Sonoma Overlook Trail

Less than a mile from the plaza, you will find an easy to moderate set of well-marked hiking trails that will give you the best views overlooking downtown Sonoma. Note: no dogs or bikes allowed!

Places to eat & drink in Sonoma, California

Tomahawk steaks and Cabs—a match made in heaven

The Girl & The Fig

Though situated on the Sonoma Plaza, you will be whisked away to a French countryside while enjoying the antique bar serving French Aperitifs and the charcuterie plates. For the main event, the offerings include traditional country food with a French passion, which is also evident in the “Rhone-Alone” wine list that features only classic Rhone Valley grape varietals.

Sunflower Cafe

This brunch restaurant on the Sonoma Plaza offers locally sourced and seasonal dishes such as avocado toast, breakfast burritos, and sandwiches. Arrive early on the weekends as the garden seating fills up quickly!

Valley

This restaurant, wine bar, and bottle shop run by Sonoma locals is committed to supporting and promoting their local community through California home cooking and wines focused on traditional, organic, and regenerative farming practices. The quaint yet chic atmosphere makes this a place you can feel at home while enjoying the best Sonoma agriculture has to offer.

El Dorado Kitchen

Enjoy classic Californian fare at the historic El Dorado hotel. Generous portions and back patio dining shaded by a giant fig tree make this a sunny day delight.

Sonoma Eats

The best breakfast burrito in town! Sonoma Eats is operated with a passion for real Mexican food that celebrates the culinary traditions of Mexico. The vibrant decor, authentic food, and warm staff make this a great stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Need to know

Note on wine tastings: Plan to hire a driver if you are enjoying more than one tasting experience per day. This allows you to enjoy more and keeps everyone safe!

My recommendation is also to avoid the temptation to cram too much into one day. Three tastings in a day is totally doable time-wise, but you will likely end up at your final tasting of the day not feeling your best. Two tastings in a day is the ideal amount for most!

Nick Stutts

Travel Advisor

Nick Stutts

Advisor - Nick Stutts

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