Inside Sonoma

I went spelunking in Sonoma County recently. After an easy climb from the trailhead, I entered a veritable fairyland, a true “live cave” brimming with activity. Imagine my surprise and embarrassment when I realized caving in wine country didn’t require my carbide headlamp, crampons, or rope. I was woefully over-equipped for the expedition. And the [...]

You’ve tasted the wines, now hike through the vineyards that grow the amazing grapes. Too active for you? New winery tasting rooms have opened, special events are planned and more. It’s a great time to visit Sonoma County. Sonoma County Vineyard Adventure Program Kicks Off The Sonoma County Winegrape Commission (SCWC) began its Vineyard Adventure [...]

It’s a balmy winter day – well, balmy if you’re from the frozen tundra we call the Midwest – and what better way to enjoy the 50-plus-degree weather than exploring outdoor sculpture gardens. Cornerstone Sonoma Blends Quirky and Fabulous Packed with delightful, unexpected surprises and set amid world-renowned architectural gardens, Cornerstone Place is a wine [...]

The excitement at Inside-Sonoma world headquarters is building: Once again, Santa Rosa will be the finish line for Stage 2 of the Amgen Tour of California (www.amgentourofcalifornia.com), on May 17. The race has been moved from February to May (May 16-23) this year. Organizers hope to avoid some of the rainy and, in some cases, [...]

Is there a tastier way to explore Sonoma County than through its restaurants? I think not. People don’t live by bread alone, but sample some of the breads at our bakeries and you’ll wonder, “Why not.” If bread is just your starter course, make sure you try out some of these new restaurants or find [...]

Start 2010 off in style: Visit a Sonoma County winery on New Year’s Day. Each winery sets its own holiday schedule, but here are a few that are open New Year’s Day. Most wineries are open New Year’s Eve, but may be closing early. Call your favorites to confirm. In alphabetical order, a sample of [...]

Ask 13 Sonoma County locals what winery people should know, out of Sonoma County’s 250-plus wineries and you’ll have more than 13 answers, and a potential row that may result in fisticuffs when people defend their favorites. Sonoma County is home to 13 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), each with its own distinctive characteristics. Its amazing [...]

Main Corridor Merges with Main Street – Towns along US-101 tempt, tantalize travelers You’ve tasted wines in Sonoma Valley. You’ve floated down the Russian River. You’ve even discovered out-of-the-way wineries in Dry Creek and Alexander valleys. But, have you discovered the hidden-in-plain-sight gems that are mere blocks from US-101? Lining the main corridor of Sonoma [...]

Windsor Oaks Vineyards and Winery offers an amazing vineyard tour. The tour meanders its way through vineyards, past protected habitat land, and the most amazing oak tree you’ll ever see. At the end of your tour, you’ll taste Windsor Oaks wines on a ridge overlooked the rolling vineyards below. It’s simply breathtaking. And the wine [...]

You have four days for a quick break. You love Sonoma County, but are a little “wined” out. What can you do? Well, four days will give you four magnificent spa experiences. Let’s take a deep breath and enter the quiet, relaxing, tranquil world of spas. Day One: Experience the waters Start your quest at [...]