Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
cl tour $20; 11am-4:30pm)
A great bike-to winery, Bartholomew Park occupies a 375-acre preserve, with oak-shaded
picnicking and valley-view hiking. The vineyards were originally cultivated in 1857 and
now yield certified-organic, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon softer in style
than Napa, and lush Zinfandel. Tours (reservations required) are available Friday to
Sunday. Bottles are $22 to $45.
Hawkes
TASTING ROOM
707-938-7620;
www.hawkeswine.com
;
383 1st St W, Sonoma; tasting $10;
11am-6pm)
When you're in downtown Sonoma and don't feel like fighting traffic, Hawke's refresh-
ingly unfussy tasting room showcases meaty Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, never blen-
ded with other varietals. Bottles are $30 to $70, the tasting fee is waived with a purchase
over $30.
Little Vineyards
WINERY
tasting $15; 11am-4:30pm Thu-Mon; )
The name fits at this family-owned small-scale winery surrounded by grapes, with a lazy
dog to greet you and a weathered, cigarette-burned tasting bar, at which Jack London
formerly drank (before it came here). The big reds include Syrah, petite Syirah, Zin, Cab
and several delish blends. Good picnicking on the vineyard-view terrace. Also rents a cot-
tage in the vines. Bottles cost $20 to $45.
BR Cohn
WINERY
Glen Ellen; tasting $10; 10am-5pm)
Picnic like a rock star at always-busy BR Cohn, whose founder managed '70s-superband
the Doobie Brothers before moving on to make outstanding organic olive oils and fine
wines - including excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, atypical in Sonoma. The little gourmet
