AZWildcat

Hi All,

Taking two out-of-town friends up to Sonoma this Sunday (DH agreed to be Designated Driver--woohoo!). What would you recommend as must-sees and must-tastes? Will the cute stores around the square be open on a Sunday? How about the wineries? I would love to take them on a champagneria tour, but I'm not sure if there is one in Sonoma (been to one in Napa and loved it!) So far the only definite on my list is the Hungarian winery (forget the name) because I love their building and the informative little tour.

None of us are wine connoisseurs...just looking for a day of relaxation and trying to give them a "feel" of the wine tasting experience.

Also, Jelly Belly factory--worth a stop?
Any and all opinions are appreciated! Thanks!

razzledazzle

Let's see-take Hwy 37 over to 121
and make your first stop Viansa-not so much for the wine, but the boutique deli
is great. Next, since you mentioned
champagne, cruise down the road to
Gloria Ferrar-if you want a tour be sure to check out their website and call
the morning you go to verify. On into Sonoma then-all the shops will be open-
try Meritage if you want a full lunch or the Sonoma Cheese shop if you want a
picnic. While on the square you can stroll into Sonoma Enoteca which represents 12 boutique wineries-
do try wine from Noah and Robert Stemmler if they have bottles open that day. Next, head west for your visit to Gundlach-Bundschu (they are of German
heritage, so not sure if this is your
"Hungarian")-these folks nuts, as are
the good people over at Ravenswood.
This would be enough for me,but if you want to keep going-head over to Glen Ellen to Benziger and Mayo Family.
Sunday supposed to be a gorgeous day here!
Glad to help with questions, and
remember to "Bear Down!"

R5
Class of "oh so long ago"

FainaAgain

Check Jelly Belly website, the factory is closed on weekends.

AZWildcat

R5 and Faina--thanks for the responses! I jotted down your fav's and will post a mini-report next week.

easytraveler

R5 is one of the great experts on Sonoma! She gives excellent suggestions!

I'd just like to add a few more places:

Slightly off Sonoma Square is Sonoma Market. I like to pick up a picnic lunch there - the variety of cheeses is awesome!

If you are not into drinking so much, I'd suggest going for the views and the architecture at Souverain and the incomparable Ferrari-Carano. Last time I was there (early October) the gardens were gorgeous with flowers.

J Winery is a great place to try the pairing of food and wine.

Just a few more suggestions! Have a fine trip!