Sonoma

It's possible to think of Sonoma, a county in Northern California, as the laidback, unpretentious sister of Napa because of its rustic attractions and variety of wineries. There are several small cities worth visiting in its rolling hills, which ascend into the Sonoma Mountains and descend to the Pacific coast.

Try Santa Rosa for an urban getaway with museums and trendy eateries, or head to Glen Ellen for a taste of small-town America. Sonoma, not Napa, should be your California wine region trip if you're looking for a relaxed introduction to world-class vintages and stunning properties. Consider scheduling a guided tour if you're only visiting for a single day. The best California tours include a few full-day excursions to Sonoma.

You should travel to Sonoma, California, if you want to taste world-renowned wine. More than 60,000 acres of vineyards and 400 wineries are tucked away behind the boundaries of 18 American Viticultural Areas, which extend from the Pacific Coast to the Mayacamas Mountains. No matter what your palate preferences, there are many wine varieties due to the area's size and diversity. Numerous national and international honors have been given to Sonoma County wineries, and the region has emerged as a leader in the production of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Benziger Family Winery is an excellent option for people looking for environmentally friendly wine. The winery attained biodynamic accreditation in 2000, the highest degree available for organic products. You may take tours of the farm and partake in tastings here. The sheep are an important part of the operation because they help to clean the field of weeds. Hanzell Vineyards, a storied winery with a reputation for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, is a must-see. Hanzell is the first winery in the entire world to use temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for fermentation, which is evident in their distinctive Chardonnay, which has a grapefruit-like flavor.

Rankings:

• #2 in Best Wine Vacations
  
• #3 in Best Cheap Romantic Getaways
  
• #4 in Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
  
• #6 in Best Day Trips from San Francisco
  
• #7 in Best Places to Visit in October
  
• #12 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA
  
• #14 in Best Foodie Cities in the U.S.
  
• #14 in Best Places to Visit in California

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