Recs for Sonoma wine tastings

Question

Party of four, first time visitors to the region. I really want to try some different Sauvignon blanc brands. And we like Pinot noir. We don’t really like Chardonnay, which seems to be ubiquitous in the region. My daughter would probably enjoy a nice view but that’s not required. Budget is flexible.

Merry Edwards seems to fit what we want. Anyone agree with that?

Answer

Sonoma County is a fantastic region for wine tasting, especially if your group is interested in Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir while avoiding Chardonnay. Merry Edwards Winery is an excellent choice for Pinot Noir, as they are well-known for their elegant and complex expressions of this varietal.

In addition to Merry Edwards, there are several other wineries that focus on Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and other varietals that might appeal to your group. Some of these also offer beautiful views that your daughter might enjoy.

Merry Edwards Winery: Renowned for Pinot Noir. Tastings focus on their single-vineyard and estate wines. They do not produce much Chardonnay, so it aligns well with your preferences.
Hanzell Vineyards: Famous for Pinot Noir, and they offer a historic estate with scenic grounds.
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens: Offers Sauvignon Blanc among other varietals. Their gardens are lovely and family-friendly.
Ramey Wine Cellars: Has some Sauvignon Blanc options and excellent guided tastings, with a focus on quality over quantity.
Iron Horse Vineyards: Known for sparkling wines and some Sauvignon Blanc, plus they have beautiful vineyard views and picnic areas.
La Crema Winery: Excellent for Pinot Noir, located in a picturesque setting in Russian River Valley.

When planning tastings, it’s a good idea to book appointments in advance, especially for well-known wineries like Merry Edwards, as they can get quite busy. Many wineries in Sonoma also offer tasting flights that allow you to sample several wines without committing to a full bottle purchase.

Overall, Merry Edwards is highly recommended if Pinot Noir is your main focus, and combining it with a few other wineries that specialize in Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir will give you a well-rounded Sonoma tasting experience.