The citizens of Santa Rosa have reason to be in a continually celebratory mood as their microbrewery of choice takes top honors nearly every year at Denver's Great American Beer Festival. Since its inception in 1997, it has won such accolades as “Small Brewing Company of the Year,” “Innovation in Craft Brewing” and "Large Brewpub Champion Brewmaster." Indeed, gold medal winners include such eloquently named brews as Damnation, Blind Pig and Pliny the Elder. Many of them can be found in pubs throughout the Bay Area, but the headquarters is a must-see destination. Russian River Brewing Company is also credited with inventing the Double India Pale Ale. The entire list of ales is fascinating, each of them unique in blend, texture and flavor. At the tap room, live music entertains crowds as they savor pizzas made thin, crisp and fresh.
Brian Arden Wines is established in a very old, Zinfandel vineyard which Brian Arden acquired from his father. Now, armed with the expertise of wine growing, the owner offers excellent vintages and tantalizing tasting sessions, paired with some delicious cuisine. The winery can also be toured, offering an overall exciting experience for the visitor.
Lisbeth Holmefjord a native of Bergen, Norway, and her husband Shari Sarabi established Baci Cafe & Wine Bar to bring delectable flavors of Italian cuisine to Sonoma County. Executive chef Sarabi uses locally sourced fresh ingredients to recreate the authentic Italian taste. Those with dietary restrictions can partake from their fares by ordering from their special gluten free menu. The tantalizing cuisine of this place attracts a huge crowd, so do reserve your table before you visit this restaurant.
Clif Family Winery is a family owned vineyard which offers up excellent wine tastings with artisan food pairings. Known mainly for their Clif Bar, an energy snack popular among cyclists, one can sample some of their best vintages such as Estate Zinfandel, Grenache, and of course, Cabernet Sauvignon, which is their specialty. Enjoy a glass with some spectacular views of the verdant vineyards when you visit here.
Established in 1994, Hartford Family Winery specializes in single origin wines, made exclusively from their own vineyard located in the nearby town of Forestville. This qualitative approach to wine making has earned them numerous regional accolades over the years. Their tasting room located in the heart of Healdsburg is a lovely, light-filled space, with a little outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying their award-winning chardonnays and pinot noirs.
The classy and breezy restaurant awaits diners to take them on a journey of modern American cuisine specially prepared by chef Louis Maldonado. The menu features Broccolini Cooked on the Plancho, Kampachi with hazelnuts and grapefruits, Branzino, Loin of Beef and traditional Bok Choy served with lemon oil, cheese and radish. The drinks menu is impressive boasting local spirits and brews that are as potent and delightful as the imported variety. There are also various events and tastings that are held here, showcasing the culinary skills of celebrated chefs.
Flora Springs tasting room or usually referred to as 'The room' is the place where you sample the exquisite wines produced at the Flora Springs winery. Set in a modern and contemporary space, it is sure to impress you with the selection of wines it offers. You can sip on some fine wines while enjoying splendid views of the hills of Napa Valley from their rooftop lounge. Their courtyard picnic area fosters a festive vibe and is a great place to relax with your family and friends. Wine tasting for individuals as well as groups is offered.
Clif Family Winery is a family owned vineyard which offers up excellent wine tastings with artisan food pairings. Known mainly for their Clif Bar, an energy snack popular among cyclists, one can sample some of their best vintages such as Estate Zinfandel, Grenache, and of course, Cabernet Sauvignon, which is their specialty. Enjoy a glass with some spectacular views of the verdant vineyards when you visit here.
Brasswood Cellars situated in the heart of St Helena is a winery featuring multiple tasting rooms as well as a guided tour of the facility. The exquisite wine produced here in small batches using locally grown grapes is quite popular amidst wine connoisseurs in the city. You can tour the beautiful Estate Vineyards and learn about their entire wine making process as you will uncover how the concoction came to be stored in large, elegant wooden casks where they are left for fermentation. Moreover, you can also learn the nuances of wine tasting in the Sensory Room at Brasswood Cellars under expert guidance during your visit here. Overall, if you already not an oenophile, this place will turn you into one.