Porter Creek Vineyards — On our second visit to this charming tasting room we had an equally lovely visit. Jonathan was a friendly host full of suggestions and stories. Given the small tasting room they can get crowded quickly but on this morning we had the place to ourselves. We bought a bottle of the 2011 Carignane “Old Vine” (mild tannins, easy to drink) and a 2011 Zinfandel “Old Vine” (big and bold, would be good w/ stew).
VML — This winery is relatively new (opened in 2011) by well-known winemaker Sonoma Co. Virginia Marie Lambrix. The outdoor seating area with tables and umbrellas was very relaxing and the landscaping was beautifully manicured. Even though we were outside the entire time, our host, Cameron, never let our tasting glass stay empty for more than a few moments before he appeared with the next wine. We left with two bottles each of the 2012 VML Sauvignon Blanc (slightly sweet, lime, passion fruit and peach) and the 2012 Bradford Mt Red Field Blend (cherry, bit of smoke, good value). Highly recommended and I can’t wait to get back here.
Moshin Vineyards — Another vineyard we’ve been to twice now, Moshin is always a good time with friendly staff and nice wines. The last time we left with a case of zinfandel and this time we got a case of the Promoshin white blend. Our other favorites were the 2012 Pinot Gris (crisp green apple and pear) and the 2009 Petite Sirah (chocolate-covered black cherry).
Korbel — Situated less than five minutes away from our B&B we decided to stop in after passing it numerous times on our way to other places. Eric tried a sparkling flight while I opted to try some of their still selections. There are a ton of champagne-style wines available here with varying degrees or sweetness and dryness. Eric stuck to the ones we couldn’t find by us and I was fairly impressed by their whites and reds. Eric’s favorite was the LePremier, a blend of pinot noir and chardonnay, and mine was the Pinor Noir (medium dry w/ nice pepper and spice). The prices are good here so I think it would be a great place to pick up some wine and bubbly to drink with dinner or back at the B&B.
Hanna Winery — Our last winery of the trip, we stopped here because I was eager to try a place known for their whites, specifically sauvignon blanc. Alicia, our wine pourer, was very nice and we had the tasting room to ourselves on a sunny Sunday morning. We liked the sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and pinot noirs but the 2013 rose really impressed us. We didn’t have any more room our shippers, but we made room for a bottle in our suitcase!.
Hanna Vineyards tasting room in Sebastopol