What better reason to visit Sonoma County than to take advantage of the many fine wineries that dot the countryside? Well, how about the scenic vistas of lush hillsides and gorgeous beaches that provides the backdrop for these splendid vineyards? In truth, you can have your wine and drink it too when you take a trip to the Sonoma Valley. All you have to know is which hiking trails will lead you to the next great bottle. So if you’re looking for a wine tour that is uniquely Sonoma and well suited to your nomadic sensibilities, hitch up the straps on your rucksack and get ready to hike you way through this beautiful valley in search of the great grape. Here are a few vineyards to which you might want to take a hike.
The Bartholomew Park Winery is a must-visit for hike-happy wine-drinkers. You won’t so much hike TO this winery as IN it (although a 20-minute walk from Sonoma Square will get you there). With several steep trails traversing vineyard lands, and a dog-friendly atmosphere to boot, you’re sure to have fun flexing your footwear through the morning hours. Then stop by the wine shop for a $10 tasting that will net you 5 samples (or simply buy a bottle to sip while you picnic on the grounds). You’ll also find a hospitable and knowledgeable staff that’s anything but snobby (something of a treat in itself in award-winning wine country).
Dry Creek Valley is also impressive, especially considering you can hike through it. Michel-Schlumberger (M-S) is a good place to start. To say that this vineyard is off the beaten path is like saying the moon is far away – it’s a bit of an understatement. Starting at Bradford Hill, you’ll hike down into the valley that houses this quaint winery, through a beautifully wooded area (don’t worry, the trail is easy-going). The vineyard proper is situated in Wine Creek Canyon, although the lands spread all the way into the valley. After a decent hike, you can enjoy a tasting including their famous Merlot and Cabernet varietals. And with return trip, the hike comes in at about 4 miles, although the wine will surely help you make it through.
Of course, you could always go on instead of turning back, setting your sights on Quivera Vineyards and Winery. Located in the center of the Dry Creek region, this winery is adjacent to Michel-Schlumberger, so you could hit them both in one go-around. However, despite being in close proximity to the red-loving M-S, you’ll find that the whites win the prize at Quivera (their Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc have been known to win awards at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair). So if reds just aren’t your cuppa, hike a bit farther and check out the whites at Quivera. The scenery is worth the extra jaunt, in any case. And if you need a hike that’s a little more heart-pounding (don’t worry, the ocean breezes will keep you cool), check out Montemaggiore, which sits 750 feet above the valley floor. Try the Syrah as you cool down after your hike.
Jamie Ryan writes for Thailand Holidays where you can plan your next exciting vacation.
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