Visiting vineyard without car

Question

We’re planning a 3 week trip to California from Scotland in May and looking at spending probably the last 3 nights in Sonoma. Our 40th wedding anniversary will fall during these days and we thought it would be perfect to visit a vineyard for a wine tasting and lunch

We will have a rental car but obviously couldn’t drive if we are going to be doing a wine tasting. I can only find options for pretty much all day trips visiting 3 or 4 vineyards - each having tasting fees of $40 ish.

How far are vineyards out of town? What transport options are there if we just want to visit one and have lunch?

Thanks

Answer

Sonoma is a fantastic choice for a relaxing wine country stay, especially for a special occasion like a 40th anniversary. Many of the region’s vineyards are within a short drive from the town center, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes away by car. Some of the most picturesque and well-known wineries, such as Buena Vista, Benziger, and Jacuzzi, are very accessible from downtown Sonoma.

If your goal is to enjoy a wine tasting and a leisurely lunch without driving, there are several options to consider:

Local Wine Tasting Shuttles or Tours: Even though most organized tours visit multiple vineyards, some companies offer private or semi-private half-day tours that can be tailored to a single vineyard. These services provide a driver, allowing you to enjoy tastings and meals safely.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in Sonoma and can be used to reach a single vineyard and return. Depending on the vineyard, a round trip may cost roughly $20–$50 each way.
Private Car Services: Many local limo and car services offer customizable wine country packages. This is often more expensive than ride-sharing but gives you complete flexibility and a stress-free experience, which is ideal for celebrating a special occasion.
Hotel Concierge Arrangements: Some Sonoma hotels can arrange private drivers or shuttle services to nearby vineyards. This can be convenient and often includes insider recommendations for lunch spots with wine pairings.

Regarding vineyard distances, most tasting rooms and restaurants are within a 5–10 minute drive from Sonoma Plaza, making it feasible to visit just one vineyard for a tasting and lunch without spending the entire day on the road. If you plan your visit for lunch, many vineyards have their own casual or gourmet dining options, so you can enjoy a full experience without needing to move to another location.

Some recommended vineyards for a single, relaxed experience include:

Buena Vista Winery – historic, beautiful grounds, offers tasting and light lunch options.
Benziger Family Winery – known for biodynamic tours and a serene picnic setting.
Gundlach Bundschu – oldest winery in Sonoma, casual outdoor lunch tables available.
Jacuzzi Vineyards – Italian-style wines with a cozy tasting room and small plates.

Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for lunch reservations and tastings, as May is a popular month in Sonoma. With a private driver or ride-share, you can have a leisurely, celebratory vineyard experience without worrying about driving.