archmack

i think Sonoma or napa both are good...

Steamedcrab

dmcq, in answer to your question one, they are both definitely worth staying at. In fact, in light of the discussions you might have read above, you would probably find it interesting to spend a night in both, so you can compare and contrast yourself.

If you're just going to do a day trip, and if you haven't been there before, by all means make it Napa Valley. Sonoma is wonderful, laid back, less developed, and much more spread out, with multiple valleys.

Napa is a single valley that is stunningly beautiful, with great wines and wonderful (though not necessarily expensive) dining. There are also several wineries that offer wonderful views and architecture, all within a relatively short drive. Yes, more crowded than Sonoma, & a bit more expensive. But if this will be your only trip there, and just for a day, it would be a shame to miss Napa Valley, IMO. It's no wonder to me that many express a preference for Sonoma, but you have to remember these are people that have already been to the region multiple times, including both Napa and Sonoma, and have developed that preference over time.

JBass1

This thread is like Red Sox vs. Yankees.

Both Napa and Sonoma (Valleys if you must) are wonderful places. Lodging in one doesn't preclude visitng the other. I try to do a little of each. Go on line and get some two for one coupons; available just by googling. Stop at Viansa or Jacuzzi as you enter the area...and taste for free. Also, have fun tasting the olive oils.

Research the restaurants....Yountville has wonderful restaurants...try Bouchon for a late lunch or go to their bakery next door for a macaroon.

Experience the area as much as you can and draw your own conclusions.

JBass1

P.S. for me, Red Sox.

otherfootloose

to the OP, dmcq, when are you planning to visit? Events or activities in the area could have bearing on which is best for your situation

janismhartman

Hi, I am a local, here in west Sonoma county, and wanted to weigh in on the Sonoma vs Napa debate. While Napa is pretty consistent in it's microclimate, dry, rolling hills, sweeping vineyards, brush oaks, with some variation of course, Sonoma county is made up quiet a few varied microclimates. The city of Sonoma is on the eastern edge of the county, very close to Napa, and shares much of it's climate, views and varietals with Napa. They have much in common, with similar politics, climate, and "feel". As you move further west in Sonoma county, not only do the microclimates get cooler, and more varied, so do the politics and vibe. (Sebastopol was the first city in the US to have a Green Party majority, and the mayor, , is the director of Sebastopol's only pot club, as well as a gay, , american. Eventually, moving west you'll reach the rugged Sonoma coast, and the cool redwood forest. Wine country is all over Sonoma county, with the grapes reflecting the particular microclimate, one of which is the Sebastopol appellation with it's hot dry days, and cool nights, creating the perfect environment for the Pinot grapes.