Santa Rosa Wineries Recommendation

Question

Hi all,

We initially planned to visit Castello di Amorosa, but since they do not charge a separate fee for just tours, we have to alter our plan. We have one person in our party who does not drink alcohol, so we don't want to spend $60 for just the tour.

Any recommendations for a good wine tasting experience in Santa Rosa? If you have to do only one spot, what could that be?

Thanks.

Answer

If you’re looking for a great wine-tasting experience in or very close to Santa Rosa—especially one that’s enjoyable even for a non-drinker—there are several excellent options that offer beautiful grounds, interesting tours, or food pairings that make the visit worthwhile beyond just the wine.

Santa Rosa sits in the heart of Sonoma County, so you have access to both intimate, down-to-earth wineries and larger, more polished estates. Below are some of the best choices, including one “if you only pick one” recommendation.

If you must choose just one spot: Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens (just north of Santa Rosa) is the most well-rounded experience and enjoyable even for someone who doesn’t drink. The spectacular culinary gardens and food-and-wine pairings make it a destination in itself.

Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens (Fulton/just north of Santa Rosa) – The estate features extensive culinary gardens, guided garden tours, shaded seating areas, and food-pairing experiences. Non-drinkers often enjoy the garden tour, the chef’s garden experiences, or simply exploring the grounds. It’s one of the top visitor-friendly wineries near Santa Rosa.
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards (Santa Rosa/Highway 12) – Known for one of the best wine-and-food pairings in Sonoma County. If someone doesn’t drink, they can still participate in the (excellent) multi-course food tasting portion or enjoy the grounds and bell tower. The views of Hood Mountain are stunning.
Benziger Family Winery (Glen Ellen—15–20 minutes from Santa Rosa) – A great option for non-drinkers because they offer a tram tour of their biodynamic vineyards, winemaking facilities, and caves. The tour is fun, educational, and scenic, and you don’t need to drink to enjoy it.
Matanzas Creek Winery (Santa Rosa/Sonoma Valley side) – Famous for lavender gardens. In summer, it’s an incredible setting for photos and relaxing outdoors. A non-drinker can enjoy wandering the gardens while others taste.
Charles M. Schulz Museum + Russian River/West County tasting rooms – If you want to split the day with something non-wine-focused, the nearby museum plus tasting rooms like Balletto or Dutton-Goldfield create a great balanced itinerary.

Below is some guidance depending on the type of experience you want:

Best overall experience (wine + gardens + ambiance): Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens
Best for a non-drinker who wants a tour-style experience: Benziger tram tour
Best for scenery and pairing menus: St. Francis Winery
Best relaxing outdoor spot close to Santa Rosa: Matanzas Creek Winery

Overall, if you need one winery that will make everyone happy—including the non-drinker—Kendall-Jackson or Benziger are the strongest options. Both offer experiences that go far beyond just drinking wine and are known for being visitor-friendly, scenic, and memorable.

Any of these choices will give you a relaxed, high-quality Sonoma County experience without forcing someone to pay for a tasting they won’t use.