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Sonoma County
People talk about a certain mystique surrounding the “Wine Country Lifestyle.” But folks in Sonoma County don’t take any of that mystique stuff too seriously.
The straightforward facts are these: The region has incredible wine, amazing food and it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.
There are mountains and the ocean, the redwoods and the river, the valleys and the vineyards; the many small towns, each with their unique personality.
With all that going for it, Sonoma County doesn’t want any layers of mystique and aura to cover up the good stuff.
When you really have it, there’s no need to be pretentious.So, no wonder Sonoma County has the reputation of being the laid-back, fun-loving, free-spirit of the wine world. The other Wine Country destinations can keep the glitz and glamour. Sonoma will take the joy and laughter. So, loosen that tie…oh heck, just throw the tie away. And toss those achy shoes. Say farewell to that rehearsed, restrained chuckle. Let loose, run free, laugh out loud. This is Sonoma County. more
Sonoma California
The town of Sonoma is brimming with history, charm, character…and characters. Just beneath its sophisticated demeanor, there’s a decidedly free-spirited, eccentric bend to this community. Mingle with the locals at their wonderful Town Plaza—the largest in California. more
Sonoma Valley
Nicknamed “Valley of the Moon” by Jack London, this is one of the loveliest, most romantic spots anywhere. With mountain ranges on either side, Hwy. 12, (which is only 2 lanes wide) stretches down the valley corridor. It’s shaded by oaks, lined by vineyards and dotted with wineries. This is the quintessential Wine Country drive. more
Healdsburg and Northern Sonoma County
Chic yet comfortable, Healdsburg is known for fine dining, stylish boutiques, luxury spas, art galleries and wine tasting rooms. It is located where three wine appellations meet, and has grown into the main Wine Country town of the north while the Town of Sonoma is the main town in the south. more
Santa Rosa CA
Santa Rosa CA, is the largest city in Wine Country, but most of the residents still think of it as a small town. So, you might get stuck in traffic, but at least the locals will wave you in, with a smile, to merge in front of them. more
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Sonoma Coast
1133The Sonoma Coast is intense and dramatic, this is a coastline to inspire awe. (It’s not a bikinis and margaritas type beach.) Highway 1 winds its way along many miles of coast, offering incredible views. There are also miles of hiking trails, some rugged beaches, cute shops, restaurants, whale watching and a sea lion gathering spot at Goat Rock Beach.
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Guerneville - Russian River Area
1134Guerneville is an endearing place in which hippies and yuppies, rednecks and gays, live together in peace and harmony. Located next to the Russian River and the redwoods, it’s also a favorite spot for nature lovers. The Russian River is also a wine appellation or region. But locals not in the wine industry tend to call the stretch on River Road starting at Fulton Rd the Russian River Area.
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Sebastopol CA
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Petaluma and Southern Sonoma County
1136If you go on one street in Petaluma, you’ll think it’s full of artsy mavericks. Cross the street, and you’ll believe it’s full of old-fashioned farmers. Turn the corner, and you’ll be sure it’s inhabited by refined socialites. And if you head west through the Two Rocks region, you won’t know what to think.
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Sonoma County Bluegrass and Folk Festival 2010
| Wednesday, 10-03-10
The Bluegrass and Folk Festival is known not only for its top-notch music but also for the sense of camaraderie among the crowd. The event features several national and international touring bluegrass and "Old Time" musicians. Plus, there are plenty of spontaneous jam sessions taking place all around the venue. Musicians come together and play while the crowd joins in and sings. The event is put on by the Sonoma County Folk Society (SoCoFoSo) a volunteer organization dedicated to providing access to the folk music scene in and around Sonoma County. So, lots of the members show up for this big annual happening and you can tell that this is their passion.Tickets are $27 advance, $32 at door, which pays for the full 8-hour event. It’s general admission so you can sit wherever you want, plus you can come and go as you please. See photos and videos of the Sonoma County Bluegrass and Folk Festival.
Also, this is the second and final weekend of the Wine Road Barrel Tasting (video) in the Northern Sonoma (video). Read more about it in the following post.And the following weekend (March 19-21) is Savor Sonoma Valley, a barrel tasting taking place in the Southeastern part of Sonoma County.
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Wine Road Barrel Tasting Weekends 2010
| Monday, 01-03-10
Over 100 wineries in the Russian River, Dry Creek and Alexander Valley will be participating in the 32nd Annual Russian River Wine Road Barrel Tasting taking place this weekend and next weekend. This is Sonoma County’s largest wine tasting event.
The general idea of barrel tasting is that you can sample wines that are still in the barrel and not yet finished—basically, a wine in progress. Then you call upon your knowledge, imagination and intuition to figure out what the finished product will taste like. Or, just guess. Sometimes, the wineries will pour the same wine from a previous year to give you an idea of the direction it’s heading. (It's a great education for your palette.) And if you have high hopes for the sample, you can purchase the future wine right there, typically at a discount. Once the wine is aged and bottled, around 12-18 months from now, you can pick it up or have it shipped to you. Since many of the participating wineries are small and make very limited productions, this could be your best chance to get their wine.To join in, just show up at one of the wineries and buy a tasting glass and wristband for $20 for the entire weekend. Then drive around some of Sonoma County’s most scenic roads and check out the places that interest you. Many of the smaller wineries are not typically open to the public. Plus, much of the time, the owner or winemaker will be on hand to answer questions. 11am – 4pm; (800) 723-6336
Also of note, the Hilton Santa Rosa is making a special offer for Barrel Tasting Weekend visitors. Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night for free. Click here for more information.
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