Fodor's Expert Review Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards

On a clear day this Spanish hacienda–style winery's Vista Terrace lives up to its name as guests at seated tastings sip delicate sparkling wines while taking in east-facing views of Los Carneros AVA and beyond it San Pablo Bay. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from the vineyards in the foreground are the product of old-world wine-making knowledge—generations of the founding Ferrer family made cava in Spain—but also contemporary soil management techniques and clonal research. Hosts well-acquainted with the winery's sustainability practices and history as the Carneros District's first sparkling-wine house serve the wines, either solo or accompanied by food that varies from cheese and charcuterie to caviar or a full lunch. Except on Wednesday, visits are by appointment. On Wednesday only, the winery is open for by-the-glass pours and bottle service (no flights), reservations not required.