Dry Creek Kitchen
317 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA
Acclaimed Chef Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen focuses on great and simple foods highlighting Sonoma County's fresh ingredients with an ever-changing menu and an in-depth wine list of exclusively Sonoma county wines. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and features a live fire grill, and inside-outside garden seating.
Pizzando (at Hotel Healdsburg)
301 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA
Overlooking historic Healdsburg Plaza, Pizzando serves a rustic menu of wood oven pizzas, house made pastas, grilled meats, fish, and seasonal appetizers. A selection of innovative spirit based apertifs, beer and wine complement the menu. Chef Louis Maldonado of Spoonbar has designed the menu for casual family style meals.
Korbel Delicatessen and Market
13250 River Road, Guerneville, CA
A visit to Korbel is not complete without a stop for lunch or a snack at the Korbel Delicatessen and Market. Sit on one of our outdoor decks among the majestic redwoods while you enjoy a delicious bite paired with your favorite sparkling varietal. The Korbel Delicatessen and Market is open daily. For parties of 20+ contact our Reservations Coordinator at (707) 824-7709, or by emailing reservations@korbel.com.
John Ash & Co
4330 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, CA
A visit to John Ash & Co. Restaurant is a feast for the senses. With picturesque vineyards as a backdrop, our chef utilizes the finest of locally grown products to create inspired wine country cuisine for your pleasure. Complement your meal with a selection from our award-winning wine list.
Great American Grill
@ Hilton Garden Inn- 417 Aviation Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA
Casual dining. A freshly prepared breakfast is offered daily in the Great American Grill restaurant; lunch and dinner are also available. The Grill's varied menu offers Chef's specialties complementing our wine list featuring many Sonoma County wines.
Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria
21021 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, CA
Diavola practices the time honored tradition of cucina povera which consists of using locally available ingredients combined with recipes that have been proven through centuries. We take pride in our house cured salumi and sausages as well as our authentic Italian pizzas fresh from our wood burning pizza oven.
Chalkboard
27 North Street, Healdsburg, CA
Chalkboard restaurant, offers a modern small plates menu emphasizing seasonal and technique-driven fare. Executive Chef Shane McAnelly sources much of his menu from local purveyors and farms, with many ingredients coming from the restaurants own dedicated 3-acre vegetable and herb garden located at nearby Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards.
Brasserie Restaurant & Bar @ Hyatt Vineyard Creek
170 Railroad Street, Santa Rosa, CA
Inspired by classic country French influences, the farm-to-table cuisine at our acclaimed restaurant incorporates the freshest and finest Sonoma products. With a focus on seasonal local ingredients, we offer a unique dining experience in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country. Smoke infused meats and seafood create a fantastic gastronomic experience.
RUSTIC, Francis’s Favorites
300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA
Located at Francis Ford Coppola Winery, RUSTIC, Francis's Favorites, is set in a Sonoma County-casual atmosphere. RUSTICs menu embraces international as well as traditional Italian dishes, with an emphasis on family-style cooking that features fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the propertys organic herb and produce garden.
Spoonbar @ h2hotel
219 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA
Chef Louis Maldonados market-driven menu might best be described as contemporary American fare thats creatively crafted yet approachable. Earthy favorites like beef short ribs and pork shoulder take exciting twists when paired with unexpected flavors from around the globe. And the seafood, grains and seasonal produce shine just as brightly.
The Lodge at Dawn Ranch
16467 River Road, Guerneville, CA
A family owned restaurant since 1905, our historic lodge, full bar and restaurant have been completely restored. All American Organic Locavore Pub Food! The wine list specializes in Sonoma County with an emphasis on Russian River pinot noir and chardonnay. We are opening for the season on April 26, 2013. Hours will be Friday 3:30pm-9:00pm, Saturday 11:00am-9:00pm.
boon eat + drink
16248 main street, guerneville, ca
locally sourced ingredients, california bistro. sister to boon hotel & spa and Big Bottom Market. as seen in sunset magazine.
Pure Luxury Wine Tours
4246 Petaluma Blvd. North, Petaluma, CA
Wine Road's premier transportation partner. We provide pre-set tours of the Alexander, Dry Creek & Russian River Valleys, or can customized to your request. Click the link provided to see our suggested Russian River, Dry Creek or Alexander Valley tours or to chat live with a transportation specialist.
Sonoma Sterling Limousines
29 Maxwell Court, Santa Rosa, CA
Locally owned luxury limousine and transportation service specializing in customer focused Healdsburg Wine Tours. Knowledgeable chauffeurs and an in- house winery specialist creating customized itineraries. Experts in the Dry Creek, Alexander Valley and Russian River area. Offer a 27 vehicle fleet selection from touring sedans, SUV's, Limos, Shuttle Vans, Limo Buses, and Executive Charter Buses. Airport Transfers, Corporate. Call our office 7 days a week for your no obligation quote.
Designated Drivers Napa Sonoma
2587 Wine Country Avenue, Napa, CA
Your car - our fully insured driver - an amazing experience! We are the first and most returned-to designated driver service in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Want to meet a winemaker? Picnic at a winery? In addition to our driving service, we also offer customized tour packages.
Terrific Tours
1450 Fulton Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Take a fun and informative wine tour guided by the experts! Luxury SUV tours passenger vans, and mini coach! Mixed group wine tours including complete wine education! Join daily wine tours within Sonoma County.
Beau Wine Tours
21707 8th Street East Suite A, Sonoma, CA
Beau Wine Tours and Limousine Service is the wine tour company to help you plan an unforgettable day in Wine Country! Locally based and with years in the business, our knowledgeable office staff and experienced drivers will create a memorable day of wine tasting and sightseeing just for you.
California Wine Tours & Evans Transportation
California Wine Tours is a full service transportation company that has been providing excellent service in the wine country for over 31 years. CWT proudly offers the finest in luxury transportation available in Northern California. We own and operate Sedans, Limousines, Suburban’s, Luxury Vans, Limobuses, Minibuses, and Motorcoaches.
Sonoma County Airport Express
We offer scheduled transportation 365 days a year between Sonoma County and San Francisco and Oakland Airports. Our buses drop you off only steps away from stations at the airport and pick you up directly outside baggage claims. We have pick up and drop off locations in Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Santa Rosa.
California Rivers Tours
575 Country Club Drive, Santa Rosa, CA
Visit great wineries in the scenic Russian River and Dry Creek appellations. Garden tours and back road tours also available. Relax in a comfortable van with large windows and enjoy a great picnic lunch. A picnic lunch is served on all tours.
Avis
Sonoma County Airport, 2266 Airport Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA
Avis is a favorite rental car provider for WINE ROAD and special discounts are available. Start your search here and the discount will be automatically applied, or reference code (AWD number) H655500 when booking with Avis or your travel agent.
Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport
2290 Airport Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA
Sonoma County's very own, oh-so-convenient airport! Good old "STS". Fly direct: San Francisco, Los Angeles, Santa Ana, Portland, Seattle, San Diego, Phoenix and seasonal flights to Minneapolis and Las Vegas.
Alaska Airlines
2200 Airport Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA
Fly directly to the Wine Road from Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles and San Diego. Visit wineries and take home a case of wine on Alaska/Horizon for FREE.
Epicenter Sports and Entertainment
3215 Coffey Lane, Santa Rosa, California
Epicenter Sports and Entertainment is redefining fun with the north bay’s largest all-in-one destination for sports, recreation and entertainment. Come play in our arcade, laser tag arena, and XD Dark theater. Enjoy our upscale bowling and lounge, and our sports bar and restaurant, where you can watch all the games. Bring the kids to jump in our trampoline park or kids play structure. 130,000 feet of fun, under one roof!
Russian River Cycle
9806 Old River Road, Forestville, CA
Relationship is my focus. At Russian River Cycle Service there are no salesmen, service writers, or managers, just me. My slogan is the "the smallest shop is Sonoma county". I say that with pride. This allows the best quality control, giving my customers top level service.
Savor Healdsburg Food Tours
Healdsburg Town Square, Healdsburg, CA
Our 3-hour walking tours are the ultimate way to taste the tantalizing flavors of Wine Country - from local artisans, winemakers, and nationally acclaimed restaurants and chefs, in a fun and flavorful three-hour stroll through downtown. We will share the culture, personality and history of this World-Class culinary region!
SOAR Inflatables, Inc., Russian River Adventures
20 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA
This is the best place to take a date during the summer! Come spend a day with us on the Russian River. We love the river, and we give you an easy day of paddling fun and relaxation, which we call "River Time.
Northwood Golf Club
19400 Highway 116, Monte Rio, CA
Built in 1928 by famed golf architect Alister MacKenzie, noted for his work at Augusta National and in collaboration with Robert Hunter, this enticing par 36 nine-hole course was originally created for the Bohemian Club. Today Northwood remains one of the most scenic and challenging courses open to the public.
Mayacama Golf Club
1240 Mayacama Club Drive, Santa Rosa, CA
The Signature walking course at Mayacama Golf Club is unequivocally one of Jack Nicklaus finest. Consistently ranked among Golf Digest's "Top 100 Courses in America", theres no end to the camaraderie from the annual member-guest tournaments to the "sipn swings" to the inter-club challenges.
Bennett Valley Golf Course
3330 Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA
Come see our beautiful "Green" and LEED facilities! In addition to the new facilities, we hope you have heard about our online tee-time reservation system. The system is very easy to use and all the information you need to complete your first on-line booking can be found online! Please visit our website to book a tee time online!
Sonoma Canopy Tours
6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, CA
Sonoma Canopy Tours is high adventure and completely unlike anything you've ever experienced. Come enjoy a two-and-a-half hour guided tour that includes 7 zip lines, 2 sky bridges, a majestic spiral staircase, an 80-foot rappel, and the unparalleled beauty of the world famous California Coastal Redwoods.
Sonoma Vineyard Walks
Gone are the days when your trip to wine country is limited to driving from one tasting room to another. You stay active and healthy on vacation, visit private vineyard properties you'd never see on your own, and learn about wine making and grape growing from your own personal guide.
Above The Wine Country Ballooning
397 Aviation Boulevard, Santa Rosa, CA
707-'LETS FLY' or 707-538-7359
Celebrating 35 years as Sonoma County's oldest established, highest 5-star rated, FAA-PUC safety certified ballooning service. A spectacular way to view lush vineyards, Redwood forests, mountain ranges, the Russian River and the Pacific Coast. Enjoy a freshly made-to-order Champagne brunch with your pilot after your morning's excursion.
Getaway Adventures and Wine Country Bike Tours
2228 Northpoint Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA
We offer guided one to six-day bike trips in the Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River valleys and surrounding areas. We also offer guided kayak tours on the Russian River, Lake Sonoma and at Jenner-by-the-Sea. Ask about our Farm Fresh Bike Tours of the Dry Creek Valley!
Spoke Folk Cyclery
201 Center Street, Healdsburg, CA
Spoke Folk Cyclery, located in downtown Healdsburg, is the area's only full-service bicycle shop. We offer high quality rentals and demo bicycles for road, touring and tandem. Visit our huge apparel selection with hundreds of items. Free area maps available; let the locals show you where to go.
The Spa Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, CA
The Spa Hotel Healdsburg offers simple, complete and conscious care in tranquil surroundings. Choose from many personalized treatments - massage, facials, manicures, pedicures or total body packages. You will be pampered and restored, using the highest quality natural products enriched with herbal extracts and essential oils. Day guests welcome!
Relish Culinary Adventures
14 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, CA
Relish hosts events that bring people together in the kitchen such as private cooking parties and corporate team-building events. Our events feature locally-grown and/or organic ingredients whenever possible, illustrating the bounty of this wonderful region and leaving guests with a "sense of place" that is all about Sonoma County.
Coastwalks
555 S Main Street, Ste1, Sebastopol, CA
Coastwalks are organized, guided multi-day hiking and camping trips for individuals and families along California's spectacular coast. On the Classic and Family adventures, participants enjoy daily hikes, while their gear is transported by Coastwalk California from one location to the next. It's backpacking without the pack!
Alexander Valley Bike Co.
20980 Geyserville Ave, Geyserville, CA
Located in the heart of downtown Geyserville in the historic Lampson Tractor Bldg. Featuring a fleet of comfort bikes for your cycling enjoyment in Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Take a pleasure ride to Healdsburg, Asti or Cloverdale. Drop in or call to reserve. Certified bicycle mechanic on site.
LifeCycle Adventures
Come celebrate and explore the Wine Road with LifeCycle Adventures! We create custom bike tours in California Wine Country for all levels of rider. We specialize in self-guided trips where you choose the start date, daily mileage and style of accommodation. Trips are 3 to 8 days in duration.
Walk-a-Bout Healdsburg
walkhealdsburg@yahoo.com, Healdsburg, CA
Walk-a-Bout Healdsburg, walking tours of Healdsburg by foot, is launching their 2013 season with a selection of seasonal and historic tours that capture what makes Healdsburg a great town to visit and live in. These tours are lively and entertaining glimpses into the known and secret Healdsburg.
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary
209 Bohemian Hwy, Freestone, CA
Osmosis is the perfect getaway for stress reduction and rejuvenation. Located in the coastal hills of Sonoma County, Osmosis features the only cedar Enzyme Bath in the U.S., world-class 75-minute massage and healing aromatherapy facials. After your treatments, relax in our tranquil 5-acre refuge of serene and meditative Japanese Gardens.
Wine Country Bikes
61 Front Street, Healdsburg, CA
Visit our Wine Country Bicycle Touring Center in Healdsburg's historic riverfront winery district. Day tours, multi-day tours, guided & self tours through the bucolic Sonoma Wine Country. The area's finest fleet of road, hybrid & tandem rental bikes await.
Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Where the stars meet the vines! World-class music, comedy, dance, theater, and the spoken word presented in our intimate Sonoma County theater with no seat further than 75-feet from the stage.
EcoRing
EcoRing will facilitate the development of eco-friendly tours, events, lodging, dining, farm products and appropriate transportation by others for the Lower Russian River area while educating and aiding businesses, residents and visitors to act responsibly toward the environment.
Helico Sonoma
5990 Flightline Dr. (Santa Rosa Airport), Santa Rosa, CA
See the wine country from a birds eye view! Sonoma Helicopter goes up and above to offer you a unique vista only a helicopter can achieve. Fly down the Russian River to the Pacific coastline and return to breathtaking valleys amid the surrounding mountains. Experience what others rarely get to.
Burke’s Canoe Trips
We offer a ten mile self-guided canoe or kayak trip through the redwoods with return shuttle. Pack a lunch and paddle downriver through towering redwoods, past warm sunny beaches, stopping at your leisure to swim, picnic, sunbathe...etc. View wildlife such as river otter, great blue heron, turtles...etc. $58 per canoe.
Up & Away Ballooning
Up & Away Ballooning offers the most personalized, professional ballooning experience in Sonoma County. We are proud of our 100% positive safety record in 16+ years of flying thousands of riders. After the flight, a hand-made gourmet brunch is served in a winery or park setting. No hidden fees.
New from Wine Road – see who can host large groups, meetings, rehearsal dinners
Large Groups for Tastings, Meeting, or Wedding Rehearsal Dinners, Wine Road, CA
We have just updated our list of wineries that are able to host large groups for tasting, others that can offer meeting space and those that can provide for a small wedding or rehearsal dinner space. Scroll down to find each catagory.
Russian River Vineyards
5700 Hwy. 116 North, Forestville, CA
This iconic Russian River Valley venue merges history with the comfort of laid-back West County vibes. With a ceremony inside the vines under a historic oak tree and dinner overlooking the Vineyards, this location offers unbeatable ambiance and ease. With access to Santa Rosa and the neighboring quiet towns of Sebastopol and Forestville within minutes, it makes for the ideal Wine Country getaway for you and your guests. Watch the video HERE This is a perfect location for not only weddings, but meeting, family gatherings and other types of events.
Notre Vue Estate
11010 Estate Lane, Windsor, CA
Notre Vue Estate is a destination winery tucked away between Chalk Hill and Russian River AVA's. Choose from several sites within our Estate. Options range from meetings, corporate groups, private parties, rehearsal dinners, welcome event and weddings…all for up to 100 guests; our Lakeside Pavilions, which feature a private lounge space overlooking our upper lake, to our Notre Vue Room, which is ideal for small groups and intimate dinners, to our Block 23 Terrace, which offers stunning views and a space away from it all.
Francis Ford Coppola Winery
300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, California
At Francis Ford Coppola Winery, we’re here to help you plan the perfect celebration of love, life, or any special occasion. We offer personalized, all-inclusive planning from start to finish, with distinctive venues that can accommodate up to 300 people.
J Vineyards & Winery
11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA
A choice of stylish venues and dining options on our winery property beautiful, pastoral scenery in the vineyards, sophisticated indoor tasting salons and a rustic, wine-scented Barrel Room. Our hospitality staff will make your event exceptional and Js Executive Chef and Culinary Team will wow you!
Krug Event Center @ the Best Western Dry Creek Inn
198 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA
Krug Event Center @ the Best Western Dry Creek Inn offers exceptional banquet and event facilities accommodating up to 185 people. The outdoor Florence Grounds are perfect for weddings and receptions and the Prado Covered Patio with Tuscan fountain and fireplace is perfect for receptions and gatherings. The Dry Creek Inn has 163 spacious, comfortable hotel rooms, with many extra and delightfully appointed amenities. Dry Creek Inn offers accommodations for your every need.
Vintners Inn
4350 Barnes Road., Santa Rosa, CA
The perfect place to gather and celebrate - you and your guests will delight in the romantic setting, the luxurious rooms and the award-winning cuisine. You will enjoy the use of the perfectly groomed gardens, flower-lined terraces and grand Event Center, complete with a 35-ft bell tower entrance
Sbragia Family Vineyards
9990 Dry Creek Road, Geyserville, CA
We offer a lovely, contemporary and original take on a winery wedding. Everything about the setting is crisp and immaculate, with luxuriant landscaping complimenting the glorious views. Feel pampered and relaxed in our bridal party lounge where you and your bridesmaids will spend memorable moments before the ceremony
So Eventful- Marisa Manna, Wedding Coordinator
By Appointment Only: 107 North Street, Suite E, Healdsburg, CA
Your wedding reflects your style, personality and relationship. You want to work with someone who realizes your vision and your budget helping you craft a day that will be remembered forever. With customized services to fit your needs, So Eventful allows you to be a guest at your own event.
Trione Vineyards & Winery
19550 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, CA
Experience rustic elegance and breathtaking views for your special occasion at Trione Winery, located in the heart of Alexander Valley on 220 acres of planted vines. Two stories of century old stone masonry and spectacular wood beams set the stage for the wedding or party of your dreams.
Wilson Winery
1960 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA
Wilson Artisan Wineries is launching a new Department of Special Events for celebrations up to 100 guests. Whether an intimate family and friends gathering, rehearsal dinners or cocktail parties, come enjoy our award winning wines on the deck over looking the Dry Creek Valley.
Soda Rock Winery
8015 Highway 128, Healdsburg, CA
Wilson Artisan Wineries has launched its Department of Special Events for celebrations of all shapes and sizes. We have the site to suit your needs; anniversaries, corporate retreats, rehearsal dinners, elopements and weddings, cocktail party, bar mitzvah. Your imagination is your only limitation.
Hotel La Rose
308 Wilson Street, Santa Rosa, CA
At Hotel La Rose, our four conference rooms are all designed to exceed your meeting needs. All rooms have independent environmental controls and multiple electrical connections to serve state of the art audio/visual equipment. Everything needed for your conference or meeting can be handled without ever leaving the hotel.
Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, CA
Hotel Healdsburg offers a range of meeting and special event spaces for executive board meetings, rehearsal dinners and other celebrations all catered by Charlie Palmer's acclaimed Dry Creek Kitchen. All facilities have natural lighting and are conveniently located on the ground floor built around the Hotels interior courtyard and gardens.
H2hotel
219 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA
h2hotels Green Room offers the perfect venue for your next social or company get together. Meeting and events from morning till night will be catered by the h2hotels casual restaurant Spoonbar. Spoonbars communal table in the dining room also welcomes groups of up to 24 for dining.
Geyserville Inn: Wedding and Meeting Venues
21714 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, CA
Geyserville Inn can host a dream wedding, your next family celebration or a corporate event, all in the heart of the wine country. We have a venue that provides different events to be customized to your specific needs. We offer lovely outdoor wedding venues that are shaded in the summer.
deLorimier Winery
2001 Hwy. 128, Geyserville, CA
707- 857-2000 Tasting Room; 707-433-3303 Isabelle
deLorimier Winery, located in the heart of the Alexander Valley, is a stunning estate vineyard and winery that will entice your senses with amazing wines and breathtaking views. We offer wedding options by providing indoor and outdoor space. Our Certified Wedding Planner will guide you each step of the way.
Dawn Ranch Lodge
16467 River Road (Highway 116), Guerneville, CA
Whether you choose an intimate ceremony under the boughs of the century old apple blossoms in the orchard, or a large celebration in our beautiful meadow, Dawn Ranch Lodge is the perfect romantic setting to celebrate your union.
We were very proud to be featured in The Knot magazine as one of the top ten outdoor wedding venues in Northern California.
Trentadue Winery
19170 Geyserville Ave , Geyserville, CA
The romance of Tuscany in the prestigious Alexander Valley. Design your dream celebration at our magnificent setting featuring 200 acres estate vineyards, gardens, fountains, lawns, redwoods and mountain views. French doors around the spacious event center create a garden-feeling indoors. Professional staff, award-winning wines a family tradition of gracious hospitality.
boon hotel + spa
14711 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA
Gorgeous, tranquil, peaceful wedding site under the redwood canopy....
Hilton Garden Inn – Conference Facilities
417 Aviation Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA
Conference facilities for up to 50 people. On site catering available.
Best Summer Wine Pairings
Warm weather beckons us outside for grilling, picnics and sunset dinners. And, we’re always looking for the best wine pairings to accompany these al fresco meals. Here are some of the best summer pairings with delicious wines found along the Wine Road.
Pairings with Salads
Rosé
The combination of Greek watermelon salad and a delicious crisp Rosé is tough to top. The brininess of the feta cheese merges with the refreshing melon with just a hint of fresh mint, creating an ideal addition to a picnic or backyard meal. When paired with the Pedroncelli Rosé, you’ve got a heavenly match. Made with 100% free-run Zinfandel juice, this rosé will soon become a favorite whether you’re pairing it with watermelon salad or a host of other perfect pairings.
Sauvignon Blanc
Once I discovered tabouli salad, it became a staple in my repertoire of summer menus. With garden-fresh ingredients, this salad bursts with the essence of summer. When I first tasted the 2021 aesthete Sauvignon Blanc, I knew it would be the ideal complement to my tabouli salad. This elegant Sauvignon Blanc, from the renowned Dry Stack Vineyard, offers bright acidity with delicate notes of white grapefruit and just the right touch of minerality to balance the salad’s flavors. Once you try this wine, you’ll discover the need to find more perfect pairings so you can sip it again and again.
White Rhône Varietal Blend
Burrata with grilled nectarines can be served as a salad, an appetizer or even for dessert, but the window for finding juicy nectarines makes this a worth-the-wait summertime treat. The aromas and flavors of the 2022 Carol Shelton Coquille Blanc are a perfect match for this popular dish. Coquille Blanc, a Rhône varietal blend, is 40% Grenache Blanc, 30% Rousanne, 20% Viognier and 10% Marsanne. The winemaker’s notes read, “Enticing nose of spicy pears and white peaches, almond paste/marzipan, a touch of honeysuckle perfume.” How could this not be the perfect pairing for burrata and grilled nectarines?
Pairings with Seafood
Grilling is synonymous with summertime menus. We’ve spent a lot of hours tending the grill to ensure the meat is cooked perfectly while sipping on something delicious. Now let’s dive into some of those grilled favorites.Chenin Blanc
Skewering up garden veggies and prawns is a quick, easy and tasty meal that everyone loves. Finding the right pairing wine that can complement both the vegetables and the prawns can end up with some misses, but not so with today’s pick. The 2023 Leo Steen Chenin Blanc Saini Farms is a stunning wine, and yes, it’s a Chenin Blanc! Bursting with aromas, flavors, lively acidity and subtle minerality, this wine is the ideal complement for this meal. Winemaker Leo Hansen has proven that well-farmed Chenin Blanc can and should be bottled as a single varietal, rather being a part of a white wine blend. Thanks, Leo!
Pinot Noir
Cedar-planked grilled salmon is such a treat, and so is the wine we’ve paired it with, the 2021 Bucher Pinot Noir Pommard Clone. We first tried this pairing several years ago and we were awed how well the wine complemented the cedar-laced essence of the salmon. You know the wine and food pairing is magical when your dinner guests stop talking so they can savor every sip and bite.
Pairings with Red Meat
With red meat, we tend to serve red wine, and the wineries along the Wine Road offer up so many terrific options. Here are four wine and food pairing winners that will have your mouth watering.Sangiovese
Building the perfect burger is the quest of many. My quest also includes finding the perfect wine pairing. When in doubt, my go-to wine is the Peterson Winery Sangiovese. The bright acidity and rustic Italianate flavors of this Sangiovese complement both tomato-based dishes and juicy red meat, like a bacon cheeseburger. If you haven’t tried Peterson Sangiovese with a burger, now that summer’s in full swing, it’s time to check it out.
Zinfandel
Barbecued pork ribs served with potato salad and coleslaw is classic summertime fare. Add in the 2019 Quivira Black Boar Zinfandel and you’ve got another match made in heaven. To quote the winery’s tasting notes, “Blueberries, fresh strawberries, and a hint of caramel. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder weave their way through along with a touch of toasted coconut.” How could it not be the perfect pairing with ribs? Yum.
Primitivo
Smoked brisket might be available year-round, but nothing beats hanging around outside on a summer’s day and smelling the aromas as the meat slowly cooks through. Then slicing it up, and savoring the smoked crust, juicy, tender interior and delicate smoked essence is nirvana. We found that the 2018 due Ruscelli Vineyards Luna Primitivo is a perfect complement in this pairing.
Bordeaux Varietal Blend
In 2023, I visited ACTA Winery for the first time and tried their proprietary Bordeaux varietal blend, DEEDS. I recently enjoyed a grilled ribeye with a bottle of DEEDS I had in my cellar, and savored another aha moment with this wine pairing. The 2021 DEEDS is a blend of 66% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, and only six barrels of this wine were produced. If you love savoring a succulent grilled steak with a superb bottle of wine, be sure to check out ACTA’s DEEDS.
More Pairing Options
Just in case you want even more amazing pairing options from along the Wine Road, visit the historical Wine & Food Affair recipe and pairing database. This database holds hundreds of recipes that can be searched by several categories including “Wine Pairing.” The next Wine & Food Affair is November 2-3, 2024, with tickets going on sale in early September. If you love wine and food pairings, don’t miss this event. After writing about wine and food, it’s time to wrap this up and go create something delicious to nosh on and open something superb to pair it with. Happy Sipping!Simplifying Wine Pairing
The perfect food and wine pairing can make or break a meal, but how do you pull it off? Do you serve a new wine with each course? What if your guest wants to keep sipping what is in their glass, and you’re moving on to the next course and next wine? These aren’t major life issues, but when you want your gathering to come together seamlessly, every detail, including the food and wine pairings, becomes important. This seems especially true during the holiday season.
Wine Pairing Tips
For my work I often need to find recipes that pair well with specific wines. To do this, I first taste the wine, noting the aromas, flavors and structure. Then I either look for a recipe that has similar flavors, or one that has contrasting flavors that will complement those found in the wine. An example of similar flavors would be a Zinfandel with rich berry flavors pairing well with Raspberry Balsamic Pork Tenderloin, or a bright citrusy Sauvignon Blanc with Pan-Seared Halibut with Lemon Caper Sauce. For contrasting flavors, an aromatic Gewürztraminer is perfect with Saag Paneer Enchiladas, which marries Indian and Mexican cuisines with a Germanic wine. If you’re just learning about matching food and wine, try pairings that you know will work—hearty foods with robust wines, and lighter meals with lighter wines. As you get more comfortable with wine pairings, expand your choices and do some experimentation. If you find a bottle of wine doesn’t work with the food, have a backup option available just in case. You can always use the wine that didn’t work as the after-dinner sipper.More Wine Pairing Tips
If you’re pairing wines with each course, let your guests have multiple glasses in front of them. This allows them to move on to the new course and new wine without having to set aside (or gulp down) the wine from the previous course. They can also revisit the previous wine and try it with other foods being served. This is how our palate learns what pairs well with particular flavors — trial and error. Don’t dictate what they should sip with each course, rather suggest the wines that pair best. Avoid serving foods in the same meal that require different wines to truly enjoy both the wine and the food. An example would be serving a red meat entrée that pair perfectly with a robust red wine and having one of the side dishes be asparagus, which taste better with sparkling or white wines. If you want to serve asparagus or artichokes hearts as part of the main course, serve an entrée that pairs with a crisp white wine. Make sure you’re serving the wines in “tasting order.” Tasting order is lighter to heaviest, and driest to sweetest. Why? If you serve a heavy or robust red wine first and then a white or sparkling wine after it, your palate will no longer be able to detect the subtilties or nuances of the lighter wine. One example of a tasting order is sparkling wine with appetizers, white wine with a salad course, red wine with dinner, and a port or late harvest wine for dessert. Sometimes I return to serving a sparkling wine with a cheese course for dessert to give my guests a break from heavy wines, then serve port or a big red as the after-dinner sipper.Know When to Let Go
If you want to serve multiple types of wines at a gathering, let go of your desire to control who drinks what with each course. In a festive atmosphere, the focus is on having a good time and you shouldn’t stop someone from enjoying the wine they prefer. If you want to make sure the food and wine pair well together, then select wines that go with everything you’re serving. Wine is about enjoyment and sometimes my guests will drink Cabernet with prosciutto wrapped asparagus, but I know the fat and salt from the prosciutto will make even that pairing palatable.Classic Pairings
The following wine pairings will give you options for the upcoming holiday season. Included are some pairings from winery websites and from the Wine & Food Affair recipe database. These websites are gold mines of recipes. When you look at one of the recipes linked below, take a few minutes to back up to the main recipe page and look at more options. You won’t be disappointed.Wine Pairings with Appetizers
Caviar Pie paired with sparkling wine Hot Artichoke and Jalapeño Dip paired with Sauvignon Blanc Strawberry Brie Bites paired with Grenache Oysters with Rhubarb & Pink Peppercorn Mignonette paired with Pinot Noir Roast Beef Crostini with Horseradish Cream paired with Cabernet Franc Artisan Cheese and Charcuterie Board paired with Merlot
Wine Pairings with Salads
Caesar Salad with Rock Shrimp paired with Rosé Salad Pear, Pecans & Gorgonzola paired with Pinot Gris Salad of Frisée, Apples, Blue Cheese & Bacon paired with Chardonnay
Wine Pairings with Entrees
Seared Scallops with Leeks and Ginger paired with Chardonnay Salmon Wellington with Smoked Paprika Tomato Sauce paired with Pinot Noir Crab Cioppino paired with Sangiovese Chanterelle Ragout with Acorn Squash Ravioli paired with Mourvèdre Chicken Piccata paired with Sauvignon Blanc Saffron Paella with Chicken, Andouille Sausage & Shrimp paired with a Red Rhone Blend, like GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) Pan Seared Duck with Blackberry Sage Sauce paired with Dolcetto Grilled Pork Loin with Maitake Mushrooms and Cannellini Beans paired with Syrah Grilled Lamb Chops with Pomegranate Molasses and White Beans paired with Malbec Filet of Beef Wrapped in Parchment with Bearnaise paired with Cabernet Sauvignon
Wine Pairings with Dessert
Orange Panna Cotta paired with Gewürztraminer Crème Brûlée paired with Late Harvest Muscat Flourless Chocolate Torte with Raspberry Sauce paired with Late Harvest Zinfandel Easy Chocolate Mousse paired with Cabernet Sauvignon
Explore the Wine & Food Affair Recipes
The food and wine pairing lists go on and on in the Wine Road’s Wine & Food Affair recipe database, with hundreds of recipes and pairing suggestions from past Wine & Food Affair events. What I love about this database is you can search by:- Winery or Lodging who contributed the recipe/pairing
- Category, such as appetizers, breakfast, lunch, main dish, salad, and more
- Main Ingredient
- Wine Pairing, which lists dozens of varietal options
- Vegetarian or Gluten Free
- Year published in the database
Keep it Simple
Sharing wine and food is about having fun, enjoying time with others and exploring the pleasures of smell and taste. As you explore the links in this blog and dig deeper into the various websites, enjoy the journey and I hope you discover your perfect pairing this holiday season.
Thanks
Although many winery websites include recipes, only a few were included in this blog. I want to thank them for sharing their wealth of recipes and pairings online. Thank you to Alexander Valley Vineyards Capo Creek Winery DeLoach Vineyards Jordan Winery La Crema Pedroncelli Winery Sonoma Cutrer Vineyards And of course, the Wine Road for their amazing Wine & Food Affair recipe database. Happy Holidays & Happy Sipping!7 Reasons to Attend Wine & Food Affair 2023
There are many reasons to attend this year’s Wine & Food Affair, but here are my top seven. If you don’t already have your tickets, get them ASAP. If you have your tickets, keep reading so you don’t miss the best parts of the Wine & Food Affair weekend.
#1 – The Scenery
No matter the month, the beauty along the Wine Road is breathtaking, but the autumn scenery in Northern Sonoma County is exceptional. The vineyards will be displaying their fall color palette, as will many of the local trees. Plus, the quality of light in early November makes every photo appear as if you spent hours waiting for the right moment to shoot. It’s the perfect time to take your holiday photo with the ideal backdrop — a gorgeous vineyard!
#2 – Unique Experience
Where else can you enjoy a two-day progressive food and wine tasting experience? Have you looked at the program and seen the delicious food options and all the wineries who are participating? If you’ve not had the pleasure of attending Wine & Food Affair before, let me fill you in how it works. You go online and buy a ticket that is good for the entire weekend. At the time you purchase your ticket(s), you select a starting winery where you’ll check in. At check in, you get a wristband to indicate you’re a ticketholder and pick up your Wine Road logo glass that you’ll use all weekend and then take home. Once you’ve checked in, you’re free to go to any of the participating wineries. To make the most of the event, be sure to review the program and have a general plan for the day so your progressive tasting follows a logical path. [caption id="attachment_81875" align="aligncenter" width="900"]
Mouthwatering lasagna at Colagrossi Wines during 2022 Wine & Food Affair.[/caption]
#3 – Add-on Events
There are three Friday Night events ticket holders can attend as well. Two require an additional ticket purchase and one is complimentary. Alexander Valley Vineyards is hosting an insider’s tour of their barrel-aging wine cave and tasting with light appetizers. This is a ticketed event. Hook & Ladder Winery will have a complimentary concert, with their wine and food truck fare available for purchase. West Wines is offering a Sunset Library Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting with their winemaker Katarina Bonde. This is also a ticketed event. There is also a VIP package with Friday Night Happy Hour at Limerick Lane and Saturday Morning Breakfast at Jordon Winery, plus a six-pack of spices, but all the VIP tickets quickly sold out. Maybe you can snag VIP tickets next year!#4 – The Food
Each winery will be offering a tasty treat to pair with their wines. Here are just a few of the offerings: Smoked Duck Breast and Bresaola served with Rustic Bakery Olive Oil and Sel Gris Flatbread at Baldassari Wines Mushroom, Spinach and Gouda Puff Pastry at Bucher Wines at Grand Cru Conchiglioni Ricotta e Spinaci at Colagrossi Wines Rosemary Dark Chocolate Bonbon at EHRET Curried Orzo Marrakesh Al Baldi at Ektimo Winery Traditional French Cassoulet at GC Lurton Vineyards Kathleen’s Local Harvest Vegetable Paella at Kelley & Young Rigatoni Bolognese at Mengler Family Wines Lobster Bisque Drizzled with Truffle Oil alongside a Pullman Sourdough Grilled Cheese with a Savory Dollop of Tomato Jam at Pech Merle Winery Salmon Cake and Zucchini Fritter with Red Pepper Aioli at Russian River Vineyards Pumpkin Pear Bisque with Goat Cheese Brioche Croutons at Soda Rock Winery The list of foods being served is just mouthwatering. To view all the food offerings, check out the Wine & Food Affair program online. [caption id="attachment_81874" align="aligncenter" width="900"]
The perfect pairing at Bucher Wines during last year's Wine & Food Affair.[/caption]
#5 – The Wine
The wineries along the Wine Road all produce stellar wines. By attending Wine & Food Affair, you’ll have the opportunity to explore new wineries, plus visit some of your favorites. The Wine Road website lists all the Wine & Food Affair participating wineries, and has a link to a map showing each winery’s location. When you click on a colored winery marker, a side window opens, giving details about the winery including what food they’ll be serving. This is the perfect tool to help you plan your itinerary each day.
As you’re planning your path, be sure to add in a few off-the-beaten-path wineries on Sonoma County’s renowned and beautiful less-traveled roads.