Part of the Russian River Valley appellation, Sapphire Hills is one of the area's boutique wineries. Its small, light-filled tasting room is next door to the harvesting facility. During harvest the rich aroma of the fruit of the vine envelops visitors who are sampling wines in the next room, making for a unique viticulture experience. Those who miss visiting during the "Crush" can still view Sapphire Hill's wine-making facility while sipping one of its award-winning varietals.
Laurel Lake Vineyards was founded in 1980 by a group of Chilean and American vintners and friends. Its spacious and modern tasting facility with a sweeping view of the vineyard is where visitors can sample the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Pinot Noir and the popular Riesling. Laurel Lake can also host weddings and other private events.
"The nicest place you can't find," joked a customer who was tasting one of De La Montanya's prize-winning estate wines. Located at the edge of the Russian River Valley, De La Montanya can be a bit hard to find, but its well worth the effort. It's tucked off the main road. But just watch for the signs and don't miss the turn under the bridge. Nestled beside vineyards, the farmhouse-style tasting room serves some of the most exquisite Italian varietals north of Naples. They also have picnic areas and bocce ball courts. Better hurry, rumor has it in 2011 the direct-to-consumer winery will offer tastings by appointment only.
Thomas George Estates is one of the newest wineries on Westside Road, opening in 2008 on the site of the oldest (Davis Bynum). Like its predecessor, Thomas George focuses on the key varietals of the Russian River appellation, chardonnay and pinot noir, though a handful of other varietals are offered as well. Owner Jeremy Baker acknowledges the contributions of the Bynum family to help take their traditions and legacy forward.
Until the still-developing winery reaches its stride, the main attraction is the tasting facility -- a newly completed large stone building opposite a dramatic barrel cafe. The cave doubles as the tasting room on weekends (Fri - Mon), though the main tasting room is tasteful and roomy. The grounds are exceedingly well maintained and designed, with picnic areas, nature walks and statuary. Several guest houses are available for vacation rentals.
Siemers Wine & Spirits, a family-owned and operated liquor store, has been serving the community since 1933. Siemers Wine & Spirits carries a wide variety of products, including New World and Old World wines, spirits, liquors, vodka, whiskey and more.
This spacious and well-lit PCLB store carries a very large selection of high-end products, but also offers sales and clearance. They have a climate-controlled room for their premium vintage wines, and sell accessories such as specialized glassware and gift bags.
Upon entering Michel-Schlumberger Wines, visitors get an impression of a Spanish-style mission complete with a central patio courtyard and fountain. This winery is committed to sustainable wine growing through the implementation of sheep for mowing, chickens for bug control and bio-diesel made with used cooking oil. It has been deemed a Fish Friendly Farm as well as a Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary and gained CCOF recognition in 2010. As for Michel-Schlumberger's wines, they have recently recieved a Gold (2007 Le Source Syrah) and Bronze (2006 La Cime Cabernet Sauvignon) Medal at this year's Sonoma County Harvest Fair. For more in-depth information on the wines and winery, visit the website or blog.
Salvestrin Winery is a family-operated winery featuring a 26-acre vineyard. All wines sold by the company are produced on-site. Tours and tastings are available by appointment. Products also can be purchased on the website.
Wiens Family Cellars is a winery located on rustic Via Del Ponte, just off of Rancho California Road in the community of Temecula. Wiens specializes in whites like Viognier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris, and reds such as Petit Sirah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as a selection of dessert wines. Wiens' tasting room offers wine club memberships and vineyard tours, and carries a selection of gifts, souvenirs, and wines. The winery will gladly host weddings and any special events.
