Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
- Zin and Syrah - but there's terrific Rosé (good for barbecues), and late-harvest Zin
(great with brownies). The wonderful vibe and dynamic staff make Bella special. Bottles
are $25 to $42.
Preston Vineyards
WINERY
11am-4:30pm; )
An early leader in organics, Lou Preston's 19th-century farm is old Sonoma. Weathered
picket fencing frames the 19th-century farmhouse-turned-tasting room, with candy-colored
walls and tongue-in-groove ceilings setting a country mood. The signature is citrusy
Sauvignon Blanc, but try the Rhône varietals and small-lot wines: Mourvèdre, Viognier,
Cinsault and cult-favorite Barbera. Preston also bakes good bread; picnic in the shade of a
walnut tree. Monday to Friday, there's bocce ball. Bottles are $24 to $38, and the tasting
fee is refundable with a purchase.
Alexander Valley
Bucolic Alexander Valley flanks the Mayacamas Mountains, with postcard-perfect vistas
and wide-open vineyards. Summers are hot, ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and
warm-weather Chardonnays, but there's also fine Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel. For
events info, visit
www.alexandervalley.org
.
Hanna
WINERY
Healdsburg; tasting $10-20; 10am-4pm; )
Abutting oak-studded hills, Hanna's tasting room has lovely vineyard views and good pic-
nicking. At the bar, find estate-grown Merlot and Cabernet, and big-fruit Zins and Syrah.
Sit-down wine-and-cheese tastings are available ($25). Bottles cost $18 to $56.
Hawkes
TASTING ROOM
707-433-4295;
www.hawkeswine.com
; 6734 Hwy 128, Healdsburg; tasting
$10;
10am-5pm;
)
