Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
707-433-6491;
www.hopkilnwinery.com
; 6050 Westside Rd, Healdsburg;
tasting $7; 10am-5pm)
This photogenic, historic landmark, has a busy tasting room inside a former hop kiln; we
especially like the flavored vinegars, which make great $10 gifts.
De La Montanya
WINERY
$10; by appointment Mon-Thu, 11am-4:30pm Fri-Sun; )
This tiny winery, tucked amid vineyards, is known for 17 small-batch varieties made with
estate-grown fruit. Viognier, Primitivo, Pinot and Cabernet are signatures; the 'summer
white' and Gewürtztraminer are great back-porch wines. Apple-shaded picnic area, bocce
ball and horseshoes add to the fun. Bottles are $20 to $60 and the tasting fee is refundable
with a purchase.
J Winery
WINERY
ing $20, tour $30; 11am-5pm)
J crafts crisp sparkling wines, among Sonoma's best, but it's pricy. Splurge on seated food-
and-wine pairings ($45; Friday to Sunday, May to October, call ahead). Bottles cost $20 to
$90.
Dry Creek Valley
Hemmed in by 2000ft-high mountains, Dry Creek Valley is relatively warm, ideal for
Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel, and in some places Cabernet Sauvignon. It's west of Hwy
101, between Healdsburg and Lake Sonoma. Dry Creek Rd is the fast-moving main thor-
oughfare. Parallel-running West Dry Creek Rd is an undulating country lane with no cen-
ter stripe - one of Sonoma's great back roads, ideal for cycling.
Quivira
WINERY
707-431-8333;
www.quivirawine.com
;
4900 West Dry Creek Rd; tasting
$10;
11am-5pm;
)
