W H A T ’ S N E W I N
SONOMA COUNTY
Above: Bennett Valley AVA
The summer season in Sonoma County peaks with veraison, the beginning of ripening, when wine grapes change their color and flavor as they mature on the vines, naturally sweetening along the way This pivotal moment signals that harvest and crush will commence within 45 to 60 days. In 2024, Sonoma County celebrates 200 years since Russian colonists first planted grapevines at Fort Ross on the Sonoma coast, marking the historic origins of winegrowing in the region. This milestone in California's wine industry will be honored at events like the Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival and others that not only showcase our renowned American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) but also celebrate our community of passionate grape growers and winemakers who continue to define
Sonoma County's legacy of exceptional wines The wine industry in Sonoma County enhances cultural, culinary, and immersive experiences through vineyard explorations, community events, and support for local farmers, fostering deep connections to our agricultural roots in a destination where Life Opens Up.
New in Restaurants
Acorn Café Healdsburg
Chef Beryl Adler, proprietor of Acorn Cafe in Healdsburg has taken over the former Oakville Grocery location and unveiled new additions to his breakfast, brunch, and lunch menus. The cafe is scheduled for a late summer opening. Adler envisions the venue as a community hub featuring rotating pop-up restaurants Adler brings a wealth of experience from previous culinary posts including the W Hotel in Seminyak, Bali, and various Ritz-Carlton establishments such as Half Moon Bay and Grand Cayman in the Caribbean.
Gallina D'Oro
El Farolito, one of Healdsburg's longstanding restaurants, has recently undergone a significant transformation, including a change in name. Despite the new name, updated décor, and revised menu, the operation remains under the ownership of the talented Diaz family, whose other entrepreneurial ventures include other Sonoma County favorites such as Agave in Healdsburg, Gallo Negro in Windsor, and the Mitote Food Park in Santa Rosa.
New in Wine
Kanzler Vineyards
The new Kanzler Estate Tasting Room has opened in Sebastopol. Private wine tastings are available twice daily by appointment, featuring a flight of five wines that includes a rosé of Pinot Noir, a Chardonnay, and three distinct Pinot Noirs. Alex Kanzler, a founding member of the nonprofit Sebastopol Hills Winegrowers Association, alongside Ted Lemon of Littorai Wines, and John Balletto and Anthony Beckman of Balletto Vineyards, is spearheading efforts to establish a new Sebastopol Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA).
New in Accommodations
River Electric
Set in picturesque surroundings, River Electric will feature 40 glamping tents, offering a luxurious yet rustic retreat for overnight stays The resort will also include two expansive pools, accessible to both hotel guests and day visitors. Adding to its appeal, the venue will house a vibrant bar and restaurant where guests can indulge in locally inspired cuisine and craft cocktails, creating Sonoma County culinary experiences.
New in Events and Experiences
Arista Winery – Vineyard Vibes
Summer Series
Guests are invited to join on select Fridays through September for a fusion of wine, food, and music in Dry Creek Valley. Situated along Westside Road in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Arista Winery is celebrated for its production of elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Each Vineyard Vibes event commemorates Arista's artisanal winemaking philosophy and showcases the splendor of their site-specific vineyards
Wind to Wine Festival - August 10
Hosted by the Petaluma Gap Winegrowers Alliance, the event features a grand tasting with over 25 local producers showcasing Sonoma County Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah wines. Attendees can enjoy wine-friendly bites from the girl & the fig and artisan cheeses from Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company
Valley of the Moon Vintage FestivalSeptember 26-29
The festival commemorates Sonoma County's grape bounty, community spirit, and historical significance as the birthplace of California wine. Against the backdrop of the historic Sonoma Plaza, enjoy a weekend filled with food, wine, and communal festivities Join grape growers, winemakers, and the community in honoring Sonoma County's winemaking traditions and agricultural legacy 2024 marks the 200th Anniversary of Sonoma Valley Wine commemorating the planting of the first grapevines two centuries ago. Attendees can experience the festival's spirit through events like Vintage Movie Night, the Sonoma Valley Harvest Dinner at Gundlach Bundschu Winery, Blessing of the Grapes, Sonoma Valley Grape Stomp, and the Artisan Festival of Food & Wine
The Donum Estate
The Donum Estate, renowned for its outstanding single vineyard, single appellation Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Carneros, has debuted 'HYPERSPACE', a pioneering sound sculpture complex. Designed by multitalented artist Yang Bao, 'HYPERSPACE' marks the latest addition to the Donum Collection This expansive installation features site-specific sculptures and a unique musical composition that evolves with environmental cues like wind and temperature. At its heart lies a golden pyramid housing a futuristic space organ crafted from mirror-finish stainless steel, symbolizing infinity and fostering an immersive dialogue between visitors and nature
Donum describes 'HYPERSPACE' as a testament to the estate's commitment to sustainability and the convergence of wine, art, and culture, reinforcing its role as a multi-dimensional winery dedicated to celebrating craftsmanship and community.
Harvest at Jack London State Historic Park - August 17, 9am
History and nature enthusiasts visiting Jack London State Historic Park can delve into the story of an orchard originally planted between 1908 and 1912, later abandoned and recently revitalized. The day will begin with a presentation detailing the orchard's rich history and the progress made in its restoration efforts Visitors can then opt for a moderate six-mile hike to explore the rejuvenated orchard firsthand. Today, the orchard produces an abundance of fruit, which is harvested and distributed by Farm to Pantry to support local Sonoma organizations aiding foodinsecure populations.
Sonoma County Wine Celebration September 19-21
The event will take place at Chateau St. Jean Winery in Kenwood. Recognized by Wine Spectator as a top charitable auction, it unites wine experts, local chefs, and guests to benefit the community. Featuring exceptional auction lots of fine wines and cuisine, the event continues to support the Foundation's mission, having granted over $41 million to local nonprofits in education, health, environment, arts, and culture. This year, the focus is on the K-3 Proficiency Project, enhancing literacy among Sonoma County children
Keep up with Sonoma County Tourism at https://www.sonomacounty.com.