Begin in Healdsburg, which was listed as No. 2 “Best Small Town to Visit in U.S.,” by Smithsonian Magazine. Downtown Bakery & Creamery (308 A Center St.) has been a staple for savory breakfasts since the café opened in 1987. And it still shines strong as a favorite for sticky buns, croissants, pains au chocolat, home-made jam pockets, donut muffins, bran muffins, blueberry scones, whole-wheat scones with currants and orange, or cheddar cheese and thyme. For larger appetites, the pancakes or breakfast pizzas are a treat, as is the Croque Madame with ham, cheese, ricotta, poached egg, and pickles. You’ll want to get a peek at Alexander Valley, which is one of the most beautiful spots — of many, many breathtaking places — in Sonoma County. Travel a short bit through Healdsburg up to the hillside area, for a visit to Jordan Vineyard & Winery (1474 Alexander Valley Road), and your 10 a.m., by-appointment library tasting. The estate has been legendary since the stone and stucco castle opened in 1972.

The intimate tasting will give you an excellent overview of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, in a guided, one-hour immersion accented by small bites. Then, head off to Francis Ford Coppola’s elaborate estate, just up the road on the edge of Geyserville (300 Via Archimedes), It’s a wonder of a resort from one of Hollywood's famous writers and directors, and gives a great dose of glam, since the enormous European-style chateau is topped with a glass pyramid. The property boasts a giant swimming pool and a museum brimming with movie memorabilia. On your return, take a jaunt down West Dry Creek Road, a gently curving stretch that is lined with winery after wonderful winery, breathtakingly beautiful vineyards, mountainscapes and a few destinations like the rustic-chic Dry Creek General Store (3495 Dry Creek Road). Next, head back to Healdsburg, for a walking and shopping tour of the downtown Plaza. First built in 1872, this pretty patch of green grass and concert pavilion has grown into a fantasyland of clothing boutiques, tasting rooms, restaurants, candy shops, and art galleries.

One World Fair Trade (104 Matheson St.) is a gem, offering beautiful handcrafted gifts from the developing world, with fair pay for third-world artisans.food and wine best tea shops It’s about time for lunch, but rather than a sit-down meal at a single spot, indulge in a walk-around feast with Wine Country Walking Tours. cheap good red wine singaporeThe guided stroll includes exclusive private seated tastings at boutique tasting rooms, plus lots of fine snacks like beignets, honey-drizzled St. Agur blue cheese atop Bosc pears, port with chocolates, freshly baked breads, charcuterie, olive oil, and French pastries.top sweet red wine brands You’re probably ready for a little rest now, so head to your hotel. wine list pdf download

That might be the ultra-luxury Madrona Manor Wine Country Inn (1001 Westside Road), a beautifully restored 1881 mansion set on eight acres of English gardens and wooded hillside.beer and wine are fine Or, for a more budget friendly rest, Raford Inn (10630 Wohler Road) is nestled right in the Russian River vineyards. what is best wine for turkeyIt feels like a whole other world, here, surrounded by vast open spaces, peaceful quiet, and the stars at night. best wine carrierThe 1800s Victorian bed and breakfast is intimate with just five rooms, and featuring fireplaces, private baths, and a complimentary evening wine and hors d'oeuvres reception.best new zealand white wine

Either hotel offers great opportunities for easy hikes exploring surrounding vineyards, or just settling back in the manicured flower gardens — a quintessential Sonoma County experience.best wine cheese pairing Refreshed and rejuvenated, hop back in the car and take a leisurely drive to Forestville, for dinner at the Michelin-starred Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant (7871 River Road). best red wine for 12 dollarsDine on a seasonal menu sourced from farm-fresh local ingredients, in a setting both humble and elegant, with a romantic and timeless atmosphere.best value wine glassesIt's amazing what a little sea spray can do for the soul. best type of wine with chocolate

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