It’s nearly an embarrassment of riches, for how many extraordinary wineries we have in Sonoma County. Even more exciting is the trend towards food pairings at these destinations, too. Here are some new places to savor:
MacRostie Estate House
The new winery and tasting estate from legendary winemaker Steve MacRostie offers an “Elevated tasting” ($55) that’s quite fitting, since it includes a tour of the hilltop property, followed by a seated tasting in the hillside tasting room, of single vineyards wines (some grown on that very hillside) complemented by locally sourced cheese, charcuterie, fruit and bread. MacRostie’s Scottish thistle motif was featured on earlier bottle labels, and now its showcased in the décor, alongside rich grained woods, leathers, and walls of glass.
4605 Westside Road, Healdsburg, 707-473-9303, macrostiewinery.com.
Dutton-Goldfield Winery
Sushi, anyone? Yes, you can enjoy that delicacy at this newly remodeled tasting room, paired with a selection of single-vineyard wines, including unoaked whites, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir ($40, vegan option also available). Or go whole hog with the “Beast & Pinot,” a seated adventure that guides you through four limited-production, single-vineyard Pinot Noir wines, partnered with local artisan charcuterie made from duck, rabbit, pig, and cow ($40). Or perhaps the classic cheese accompaniment is your preference – you’ll happily indulge in that, too ($30).
3100 Gravenstein Hwy. N, Sebastopol, 707-861-9120, duttongoldfield.com.
Hamel Family Wines
Debuted in mid-2014, this posh, family-owned Sonoma Valley winery has a new by-appointment charmer, called the Linen Bag Breakfast Tasting. How fun is this – chef Clinton Huntsman serves up poached eggs, braised greens with bacon rillettes and fresh Blue Ribbon biscuits topped in house made jam paired with Champagne from the Hamel Jr.’s private cellar ($35). Or, you can gather for the equally interesting Reserve Experience ($100), featuring a private tasting in the Library or Reserve Room of four Estate Series wines plus a collection of reserve wines, barrel samples and library vintages. Offered alongside are small bites, assorted cheese, and charcuterie. Wrap it all up with a private tour of the estate house, winery, caves and vineyards.
15401 Sonoma Hwy., Sonoma, 707-996-5800, hamelfamilywines.com.
Tip: Fine wines deserve a fine, worry free ride. Let Pure Luxury be your designated driver.
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