Sonoma has many fabulous wineries so it’s hard to pick favorites but here are 3 that have great atmosphere as well as wonderful vino…

I have loved the wine at Gundlach-Bunschu for many years and I really like taking people there for a visit. Not only are their wines delicious, it’s got a great tasting room and you can buy some wine and picnic on the terrace as well.   They have tours Thursday through Monday, May – Oct you can take in a vintage Swiss Army Pinzgauer that seats 12.   So if you’re planning a trip to Sonoma next Spring, Summer or Fall it’s a fun way to see the winery and vineyards.

Sometimes on my way to Sonoma if it’s around lunchtime I’ll meet a friend at Ram’s Gate Winery which is located just past the Sears Point Raceway. In order to have food you need to be a member but it’s an incredible place, worth a visit just to see it and try some of their wines. The setting is fabulous with water views AND it’s pretty close to Marin and San Francisco if you want a quick getaway. They are also open until 6pm but keep in mind they’re closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Speaking of beautiful settings the third winery has been a favorite for a very long time. It’s Gloria Ferrer and they specialize in sparkling wines but they also make some great reds with their Pinot Noir and Merlot. It’s right down the road from Ram’s Gate across from Cornerstone. I try to meet friends there at about 3-4 for a late afternoon glass of their delicious sparkling wine. On a sunny day sitting outside on the terrace looking out over the valley, the setting is truly magical! And now they’re going to make it even better. It will soon get a makeover with a bigger terrace, more area in the Visitor Center, a private room and a new display area. It should be ready early June. In the meantime they’ll suspend tours during renovation and set up a special tented area for their guests for tasting.