Sonoma County Tourism
Contacts
FAQs
You’re in luck! Sonoma County’s official website now offers a digital inspiration guide & map to help you plan your next best trip and find all the things you need to explore. Find the guide for 22-23 here
Sonoma County is located 45 minutes’ drive north of San Francisco and along the western border of Napa, stretching up and all the way to the Pacific Coast
The ‘best’ time to visit is usually a personal preference. Our most popular time of year to visit is May through October, and especially during the grape harvest in September/October.
The Sonoma Valley has a “Mediterranean” climate. Temperatures in the Valley rarely drop below freezing during the rainy winter months; in the summertime, coastal fog and breezes bring cool evenings even after very warm days.
Pretty big! Sonoma County is one million acres and includes five different valleys, 18 American Viticultural Areas, redwood forests, and nearly 90 kilometres of rugged Pacific coastline. That being said, it’s pretty easy to get around. A drive up the main highway (101) will take about 45 minutes to an hour from the bottom of the county to the top.
Sonoma County Tourism can assist journalists, content creators and influencers in a range of ways, from providing flight, accommodation, on-ground transport, and itinerary and planning support.
The Sonoma County team maintains discretion about which trips it supports, and to what extent.
Sonoma County usually participates in the annual Visit USA roadshow and/or the Visit California Roadshow that is held every two years. In addition, different agent events run throughout the year. If you are interested in attending any future events related to Sonoma County, please register your interest.
San Francisco International – 56 miles (90km) – 1 hour 18 mins
Oakland International – 56 miles (90km) – 1 hour 11 mins
Sacramento International – 76 miles (122km) – 1 hour 26 mins
Sonoma County Airport – 36 miles (57km) – 47 mins
San Jose International Airport – 84 miles (135km) – 1 hour 37 mins
At least two nights, though most people wish they’d booked more time once they’re there. Since the area is so diverse, you can also split up the stay to have 2-3 nights in the Valley’s and Vineyards area, and another 2-3 nights along the Coast or near the Redwoods. Depending on the client, a stay of 4-6 nights can easily be filled with food, wine and fun activities.
As of January 2023, there are over 435+ wineries to discover.
Yes! Sonoma County is where life opens up. There is an incredible culinary scene focusing on farm-to-table methods as well as many outdoor adventures. With the three different regions (coast, redwoods and vineyards) there are many different offerings ranging from outdoor activities to spa and wellness, shopping and farmer’s markets, breweries and food tours, arts and culture and music and nightlife.
Restaurants: 18-20%
Taxis: 10-15% (many taxis in the US aren’t equipped with credit card machines, so ask before you get in)
Tour guides: 20%
Bell desk: $2/bag
Valet: $2 when they bring your car around (nothing when you drop it off)
Valet loading luggage into your car: $2/bag
If hotel delivers anything to your room: $3
Housekeeping: $3/day on the bed
Courtesy shuttle: $2 per person
Doorman if they call you a cab: $2
Head to Sonoma County Tourism’s website to learn more.
Sample Itineraries
Brochures
Story Ideas
Exploring Sonoma County with Snoopy and Charlie Brown
When it comes to iconic cartoon characters, few are as beloved as Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the entire Peanuts gang. If you’re a fan of Charles M. Schulz’s timeless creations, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in their world than Sonoma County, California. Join us as we embark on a whimsical journey to explore Sonoma County through the lens of Snoopy and Charlie Brown, in their “home town”.
8 Natural Wonders of Sonoma County
One of the best ways to get familiar with Sonoma County is to check out its superb natural wonders. These marvelous twists of nature, all of them in beautiful locations scattered around the county, will take you by surprise and stay in your mind forever.
Check out the Natural Wonders by clicking here!
What to Do When Wine Isn’t For You
While Sonoma County is best known for being a wine region, many don’t know what else this vast region excels at. Awesome breweries and distilleries, olive farms and tasty cheese are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the hidden gems this region offers.
Get your Glamp On
If you’re looking for a twist on your next getaway, consider glamping in Sonoma County.
Sustainable Winery Experiences in Sonoma
99% of Sonoma County’s 60,000 vineyard acres are certified sustainable. To gain a boots-on-the-ground understanding, just visit some of these Sonoma County wineries.
The Most Beautiful Wine Castles of Sonoma County
Let your imagination run wild at these picture-perfect wine castles and chateaux in Sonoma County.
10th annual AVFest
The Alexander Valley Film Festival regularly showcases and hosts new and emerging talents from all over the world. AVFF features cutting-edge indie films and selections of diverse works from and about underrepresented artists and communities. They actively seek socially conscious films that depict characters in the richness of their culture and identities; works from directors of colour; Latinx-, LGBTQ+-, and female-driven narratives; and youth-oriented stories.
18th Annual California Artisan Cheese Festival
The California Artisan Cheese Festival encourages you to taste, explore and learn at an event like no other! Cheese, Cheese and More Cheese …get your tickets now before they sell out. Head to artisancheesefestival.com to scoop up your tickets for the coveted Farm & Producer Tours on Friday, where you meet the producers, farmers, and cheesemakers behind these stellar local cheeses, artisan foods and craft beverages!
Sonoma Epicurean
Sonoma Epicurean is a signature series of events that feature curated, hands-on experiences with award-winning chefs, local artisans and world-class vintners. Save the Date for the 3rd annual event for adventures and experiences focused on lifestyle, wellness and sustainability. Proceeds from the event will benefit the V Foundation for Cancer Research to fund game-changing cancer research and related programs.
Sonoma International Film Festival
The SIFF is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the best in independent film and filmmakers from around the world, inspiring savvy film lovers, and introducing the power of film to student filmmakers. Blending a program of international film, food, wine and fun.
Wine Road Barrel Tasting
Learn directly from winemakers how they work with their wines after harvest before the wine is bottled. Be the first to taste limited production wines and take the opportunity to purchase futures for your own cellar. Participating Wineries are located throughout Northern Sonoma County; Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Windsor, Guerneville, Forestville, Sebastopol, Cloverdale and Geyserville.
Sonoma County Restaurant Week
Each year, Sonoma County restaurants showcase their talents — and local ingredients — in their Restaurant Week dishes. Don’t miss your chance to sample the cuisine of some of the area’s top eateries, as you sample their best on specially curated tasting menus … all for an amazing price. Participating restaurants offer both a la carte and prix fixe options that run the gamut from house-made pasta and freshly caught seafood to Latin fare and classic California-style cuisine.
Cloverdale Citrus Fair
The annual Cloverdale Citrus Fair features everything you love about a small-town fair! Enjoy live music by local bands, a carnival with thrilling rides and games, a Friendly Farm Petting Zoo, and agricultural 4-H shows. Culinary demos and wine tastings showcase the region’s bounty, while art and photo exhibits highlight community talents. Special events include a parade, cabaret performances, talent shows, and a Citrus Fair Queen pageant.
Chowder Day Bodega Bay
Come celebrate Chowder Day 2024 on the beautiful Sonoma Coast, filled with mouthwatering chowders and coastal vibes! Join us for a fun day in the Bodega Bay Area sampling chowder at the numerous restaurants. This is a driving event around the towns allowing you to enjoy our beautiful area. This is a Fundraiser for the various charities, scholarships and supporting Bodega Bay area businesses.
Winter Wineland
Join us for 2 glorious days along the Wine Road for our 31st Annual Winter WINEland …The perfect winter escape…taste current vintages, multiple varietals grown in Sonoma County, and experience the beauty of Winter in Sonoma County. Restock your cellar, enjoy wine with friends, discover new wineries or old favourites in Sonoma County Wine Country. Our detailed program will be available in December – see what each winery will offer for the weekend…then plan your tasting adventure.
Korbel Holiday Market
Korbel would like to wish you a Happy Holiday by inviting you to our Holiday Market showcasing local vendors. There’s no better place to get those last-minute stocking stuffers and gifts! Say hello to the Hospitality team and purchase a specialty Holiday Cocktail. Every purchase from a local vendor will give you the chance to win a prize.
50 Years Celebrating ‘A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving’
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the animated classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving with crafts for kids, a Snoopy-inspired snack of jellybeans, popcorn, and pretzels, and screenings of the movie on the big screen.
Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s Annual Kids Halloween Carnival
Wear your most eerie-sistible costumes for a day of ghoulish games, a fortune teller, reptiles and other animals to pet, a Wheel of Deals, devilish decorations, and entertainment for all!!
Fogbelt Beer Camp at Wildhaven
Who didn’t love summer camp as a kid? Fogbelt Beer Camp is designed for our rad beer lovers who’s happy place is with nature. This two-night adult summer camp features amazing Fogbelt beers, live music, wood-fired cooking and so much more, all at the popular Wildhaven glamping experience located along the Russian River in Healdsburg. Featured activities include wood fire cooking, coffee roasting, yoga, astronomy, live music, barrel aged beers, falconry, wilderness first aid, and brewing techniques.
Russian River Pride Guerneville 2023
Experience the Magic Where Redwoods and Rainbows converge! Guerneville, nestled in the picturesque Russian River region of Sonoma County, hosts its distinctive Pride event every October. This hidden gem has long been a beloved retreat for Bay Area weekenders. Over the years, it has earned the affectionate moniker of the ‘Gay Riviera.’
World Championship Grape Stomp
As part of the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, the annual grape stomp in Santa Rosa invites people of all ages to compete in the winemaking tradition of crushing grapes by foot. “Stompers” crush the grapes while “swabbies” direct the juice into the glass jugs. During the final round, 60 pounds of grapes will be stomped for five minutes. Whichever team fills the jugs with the most juice wins.
Sonoma County Harvest Fair
Indulge in Sonoma County’s finest at the Harvest Fair Grand Tasting Event! Featuring participation from over 100 esteemed wineries, even the most discerning connoisseur is bound to discover a new favourite to enrich their collection.
Jacuzzi’s 5th Annual Grape Stomp
Join the excitement at Sonoma County’s highly anticipated event, Jacuzzi’s 5th Annual Grape Stomp, happening on October 8th. This grape-stomping extravaganza promises a day filled with grape-crushing fun and wine-tasting delights.
Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival
Visitors can immerse themselves and revel in the most anticipated time of year, harvest. (more…)
Wine Country Distillery Festival
The 4th Annual Wine Country Distillery Festival returns bringing together Sonoma County distilleries to celebrate their craft and share their spirits with locals and visitors alike. (more…)
Out in the Vineyard’s Gay Wine Weekend
Out in the Vineyard’s Gay Wine Weekend has made the move to the Russian River Valley and the Healdsburg wine region of Sonoma County, with all-new venues, wineries, restaurants, winemaker dinners, winery tours, pop-up bars, a drag queen brunch and auction, after parties, closing pool soiree, and the signature event, the Twilight T-Dance at Crema Winery Estate.
What's New
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Sonoma County launches a new app to make your trip even better!
January 20 Life opens up in Sonoma County and it has just got even easier with the new app designed to make your trip stress free. find an endless list of restaurants, activities, wineries, hotels and more. Personalized to you, the app will design an itinerary for your trip, with an up to date events calendar to keep you in the know of all the exciting things happening! Share your personal itinerary with friends, family and social media too. Featuring turn-by-turn directions let the app do all the work for you whilst you sit back and enjoy your unique trip, that you'll never forget. Find out more here: Sonoma County App | SonomaCounty.com
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More than fourteen properties in Sonoma County made U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 list of “Best Hotels in the USA.”
March 1 More than fourteen properties in Sonoma County made U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 list of “Best Hotels in the USA.” The list, which evaluated over 6,000 hotel properties nationwide, includes Timber Cove Resort (590), Vintners Resort (656), The Stavrand (842), Gaige House (849), The Farmhouse (850), The Lodge at Bodega Bay (1106), Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn (1216), Kenwood Inn & Spa (1250), The Madrona (1611), The Astro (1840), Graton Resort & Casino (2265), Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine County (4967), and the Flamingo Resort (5518).
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Little Saint Reopens with New Food Program
March 1 Healdsburg’s Little Saint has reopened with a more casual all-day food program. Changes include a new menu from chef Bryan Oliver highlighting their 100% plant-based, vegetable-forward cuisine, driven by what is grown seasonally on local Sonoma County farms. The wine list has been transformed with emphasis on an expanded collection of small-producer wines. A new bar program offers a creative take on both spirits-based and non-alcoholic cocktails.
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The Roadhouse Collective
March 1 The former Fork Roadhouse in Sebastopol has been reimagined as a food collective. The growing cast of food businesses at the renamed Roadhouse Collective include Fork Catering, Just Eat Some Plant-Based, Bayou on the Bay, Happy Cat Pizza, and SubHuman, a sandwich shop. The food collaborators will share the space as an event venue, commissary kitchen, and pop-up space for their concept restaurants. The Roadhouse Collective believes collaboration is key to a thriving and sustainable food business model.
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Astro Adventures
March 1 The Astro has launched its inaugural season of weeklong “Astro Adventures” in partnership with chefs, master sommeliers, mixologists, and authors, and their restaurant, The Spinsters Sisters. Each week the adventure is hosted by a different expert who guides the group through Sonoma County. The Astro Adventure package includes lodging at the midcentury motor lodge, several meals at The Spinster Sisters tasting fees, transportation, and goodies to bring home.
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Extended Stay Promotion in Sonoma County
March 2 The late winter-early spring months are far from sleepy in Sonoma County. In fact, it is an excellent time to feel like visitors are getting Sonoma County all to themselves, especially mid-week. Check out Sonoma County’s deals page for cool trip ideas. Or if visitors prefer more buzz balanced out by time to relax, they may consider extending their weekend stay and saving more.
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New restaurant opening 15th July
Downtown Santa Rosa will say bonjour to a casual French bistro early this summer, according to restaurateurs Mark and Terri Stark. The couple recently leased the long-empty, former Bollywood space at 535 Fourth St. with plans to serve classic bistro dishes, like steak frites and mussels. The restaurant also will feature a fresh seafood bar, along with wine and cocktails.
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“World’s 50 Best Restaurants
For the third consecutive year, SingleThread, the Michelin three-star Healdsburg restaurant, has been included on the prestigious “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list, a curated collection of outstanding global dining experiences.
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Sea Ranch Lodge
The North Building at the Sea Ranch Lodge has been completely reimagined and now offers 17 new, intimate guest rooms for a quiet, Northern Sonoma County coastal escape. Following the complete restoration and revitalization of the Lodge's public spaces in October 2021, the opening of The Sea Ranch Lodge guest rooms marks the final phase of its multi-million-dollar reimagination. San Francisco-based design collective NICOLEHOLLIS has concepted the new look for the guest rooms, creating an atmosphere of elevated simplicity that aligns with The Sea Ranch's ethos: living lightly on the land.
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Dawn Ranch
After purchasing neighboring property Fern Grove Cottages and closing for a series of renovations, Dawn Ranch has reopened just in time for the summer season. Along with highly sought-after access to the Russian River, the property now boasts 81 accommodations, a new renovated South American-inspired restaurant and bar, a new full-service luxury spa with nature-inspired treatments, new luxury glamping tents are set to open in the coming weeks.
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Timber Cove Resort
Celebrating its 60-year anniversary, Timber Cove Resort is the only Sonoma County hotel with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. Marking this major milestone, July 25-29, Timber Cove Resort will host a variety of 60th anniversary events including wine tastings and multi-course dinners, as well as fireside chats with guests Ninive Calegari, daughter of original Timber Cove owner, and architect Richard Clements Jr., and Mary Alinder, former assistant to Ansel Adams. Healdsburg's homegrown chef Dustin Valette, owner of The Matheson and Valette is preparing a four-course anniversary dinner on July 29. Each course will be paired with wine from the Sonoma Coast’s Wayfarer Vineyard.
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Goldfinch - Sebastopol
Goldfinch is a modern American bistro highlighting the comforts and spirit of Northern California cuisine featuring ingredients cooked on an open-wood fire that reflect the seasonal bounty of Sonoma County. New and Old-World wines are sourced to complement Goldfinch’s menu year-round, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails range from classic to contemporary. Goldfinch is committed to cooking with local, fresh foods that support Sonoma County farms, anglers, and purveyors such as Mycopia Mushrooms, Pink Barn Farm, Earthworker Farm, DMS Ranch, and the Joe Matos Cheese Factory.
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19Ten Bar and Provisions – Santa Rosa
The owners of Windsor’s Kin and Healdsburg’s KinSmoke BBQ have opened an upscale casual restaurant in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square, turning the historic Jacobs building into a cocktail-focused eatery with pizza, sliders, and shared plates. Unlike their family-focused restaurants in Windsor and Healdsburg, 1910 Bar and Provisions will have late-night offerings and a full bar.
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The Farmhouse Restaurant - Forestville
With years of experience in fine dining and prominent San Francisco Michelin-starred restaurants (Coi, Petite Crenn), The Farmhouse Restaurant has introduced Craig Wilmer as their new executive chef. Wilmer brings his version of avant-garde California-French cuisine to the Forestville location with a new menu that will feature seasonal and curated ingredients from Sonoma County.
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The Sea Ranch anticipates new stunning guest rooms
Located on the Northern California coast, The iconic and history filled 53-acre property, renovated into a hotel after serving its role as a cultural hub, anticipates the launch of its new guest rooms in summer 2023. Over the last 3 years they have set about thoughtfully restoring the South Building to its original beauty, and exciting new things are happening. Until then, enjoy its wide range of bliss from dining, bars, golf course, events, activities, exhibitions and more.
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Sonoma County’s Bib Gourmands awards were announced for 2023
Following the July release of the annual California Michelin Guide. Receiving the awards were Healdsburg’s Chalkboard; El Molino Central, Valley Bar & Bottle and FolkTable in Sonoma; Khom Loi and Ramen Gaijin in Sebastopol, Stockhome in Petaluma, and Glen Ellen Star in Glen Ellen. -
Healdsburg’s Madrona and Forestville’s Farmhouse Inn on their prestigious list of 15 Favorite U.S. Resorts of 2023.
Two Sonoma County properties, Healdsburg’s Madrona and Forestville’s Farmhouse Inn, with superior service and pristine natural settings excelled in Travel + Leisure’s annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023.
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Kenwood Inn & Spa
Kenwood Inn & Spa has completed a multi-phase renovation project. The Sonoma Valley property’s Mediterranean feel remains but now with a sleek, modern touch. All 31 guest rooms and suites have been remodeled, as well as the property’s peaceful outdoor common areas, including the poolside cabanas. The lush foliage remains, but changes to the landscaping now allow details like the property’s water wheel to stand out. Additionally, the outdoor warming pool in the spa area has a new look, and couples lounge chairs and fire pits have been added to maximize relaxation.
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Forest Bathing & Wine Tasting at Bartholomew Estate Winery
Bartholomew Estate Winery is now offering a new forest bathing and wine tasting experience in partnership with Jenny Harrow-Keeler, Certified Nature Therapy Guide. Guests will be hosted by Harrow-Keeler who will guide them through the forest bathing experience through the vineyards, and alongside the creeks and trees of Bartholomew Park. Then they will return to the winery’s Oak Knoll for a flight of Bartholomew Estate Winery’s sustainably farmed and award-winning wines, connecting their sensory experience with the terroir showcased in the wine.
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Americana Restaurant Opens Second Location In Sebastopol
The owners of Santa Rosa’s Americana restaurant are opening a second location in Sebastopol. The husband /wife team of chefs Ryan and Samantha Ramey are bringing their locally sourced diner-style cuisine to the food scene in Sebastopol this fall. The Ramey’s will continue to highlight their classic preparations where they can use the Sonoma County’s seasonal bounties. Sourcing is a key element to their offerings and mission using strictly local, organic and sustainable ingredients.
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Pascaline Patisserie and Café Opens New Location
Pascaline Patisserie and Cafe recently opened a new location in the Montgomery Village area of Santa Rosa led by owner and top ranked chef Didier Ageorges with pastry chef Lea Schleimer. The new café imparts a cozy, relaxed country-chic vibe. In addition to elegant pastries, the cafe also serves savory breakfast and lunch dishes. -
Sonoma County Stories at Museum of Sonoma County
The Museum of Sonoma County has announced the grand opening of Sonoma County Stories. A groundbreaking permanent exhibition that encourages the public to engage with the county's past, and contribute to its future, through the power of storytelling. Sonoma County Stories combines vibrant recorded oral histories with other original sources. Featured in the exhibition are the personal histories of individuals, families, and communities representing the many cultures present in the county over the last two centuries, including Native American, Latino, Asian, African American, European, and more. An immersive experience, visitors are invited to use multimedia stations with access to videos, audio recordings, and images. This pivotal project is grounded in the three-decade journalistic and preservationist endeavors of Gaye LeBaron who spent her career with The Press Democrat. -
Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport
Sonoma County Airport (STS) celebrated the completion of its $40 million terminal modernization project, marking a significant milestone in Sonoma County’s transportation infrastructure. The unveiling showcased a modernized air terminal filled with upgraded amenities, new facilities, and local artwork embodying the spirit of its namesake, Charles M. Schulz - the beloved American cartoonist, and creator of Peanuts. The renovations boast 27,000 square feet of additional space, including a refreshed ticketing lobby, improved security lanes, a spacious main lobby with four extra boarding gates, dedicated concessionaires, and an outdoor seating area. Travelers can look forward to passing through a state-of-the-art baggage claim area fitted with two carousels, car rental spaces, and artwork that pays tribute to Schulz. Also, last year, the County of Sonoma partnered with ForeFront Power to build a 963 kilowatt (kW) solar energy portfolio at Sonoma County Airport. The new solar parking canopy at STS is now generating enough renewable electricity to offset 100% of the airport’s annual electrical demand. -
Pushpak Historic Sonoma Wine Tour has been recognized as a Viator Experience Award winner for Beverage Tours in North America
Viator is the world’s largest travel experiences marketplace with more than 300,000 bookable tours, activities, and excursions. The Viator Experience Awards ranks the world’s top experiences based on average review ratings, share of bookings with a review, and number of bookings on Viator over a 12-month period from travelers around the world—setting the bar for the best things to do and see. -
Jordan Vineyard and Winery has made the 2023 World’s 50 Best Vineyards list.
Ranked at #20, the Healdsburg winery was recognized as a “continent winner,” or the top vineyard in North America. It was the only Sonoma County winery to make the list this year and only one of two U.S. wineries in the top 50.
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Healdsburg Bubble Bar & Cuvée House
Sonoma County winemaker Sarah Quider, senior vice president of winemaking for Foley Family Wines, will open a Parisian-chic sparkling wine tasting room just off the Healdsburg Plaza this winter with her sister, restaurateur Samantha Tilley. Bubble Bar will highlight bottles from across the globe, with a special focus on grower Champagnes, which come from small, lesser-known producers. The sisters plan to offer wine tasting by the flight, by the glass and by the bottle, as well as weekly educational wine tastings, a wine club and bottles to-go. The multidimensional wine bar also boasts its own Airbnb, the Cuvée House in a charming century-old, Queen Anne Victorian home.
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Sustainability and Responsibility - Travelling and Preserving the Land
Sonoma County’s Suki Waters Discusses Responsible Travel and Preserving the Land – YouTube
Sonoma County, Where Life Opens Up
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