Ladies’ weekend & white wines

Question

Hello friends,

Some friends and I just booked a last minute weekend trip to Sonoma. We know very little about wine other than we prefer whites. A favorite wine of mine from the region was Chasseur, I honestly don’t even know if that’s still being made. Any wine tasting suggestions? We’re not big drinkers so something that also offers ambience and teaches us about wine would be a plus.

Thank you!

Answer

Sonoma County is a wonderful choice for a ladies’ weekend focused on white wines. Since you enjoy whites and want a relaxed, educational, and ambient experience, there are plenty of wineries that cater to that style.

Wine Tasting Recommendations for White Wine Lovers:

Chateau St. Jean: Known for their crisp Chardonnays and aromatic Sauvignon Blancs. The estate has beautiful gardens and a relaxed tasting room, making it perfect for beginners.
Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens: Offers Chardonnay flights and a gorgeous garden setting. They also have food pairings and staff that provide a good introduction to wine tasting.
Buena Vista Winery: One of California’s oldest wineries, offering educational tastings and historic ambiance. Their whites are elegant, and the tasting experience is more intimate.
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards: Known for Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. The staff is knowledgeable and enjoys explaining wine-making techniques in a relaxed setting.

Additional Tips for a Relaxed, Fun Weekend:

Consider booking a private or semi-private tasting for your group—it’s more interactive and can be tailored to your white wine preference.
Lunch or picnic at a winery with scenic views can make the day more enjoyable without overdoing tastings.
Many wineries offer light educational sessions on tasting techniques and pairing foods, which is perfect for those who want to learn a bit without feeling pressured.
If Chasseur was a favorite, you might find similar styles at local boutique wineries, especially Pinot Gris or Chardonnay from Russian River Valley producers.

Planning a few stops and leaving time to enjoy the scenery and each other’s company will make your Sonoma weekend both relaxing and memorable.