5 Russian River Valley Estates & Wineries

I’ve read that Economist John Maynard Keynes said on his deathbed that his only regret in life was that he had not drunk more champagne. After the pandemic, many of us realize that life is unpredictable, so recently I traveled up to Sonoma County to drink more wine and champagne.

After visiting Korbel to drink more champagne, I discovered that the Russian River Valley is a haven for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Some of the best California wines are grown in the Sonoma County. They also have some old-vine Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc on acres of rolling hills.

Many of the wineries and estates are open for outdoor wine tastings and lunch by reservation. I discovered a multitude of wineries offering large and picturesque outdoor tasting areas, plenty of covered spaces and shade to keep visitors comfortable while enjoying their wines on a warm summer day.

Here are my top 5 champagne and wine experiences:

Korbel California Champagne

The Korbel family came to California in the 1850s and built one of the most popular Champagne brands in the state. The historic site offers three complimentary Marketplace tastings outside at a beautiful designated tasting table. They also have a Korbel Deli to order hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, and a wine country cheese and bread plate. For those seeking bubbles, they have five tastes for $15 and a four tasting Discovery menu for $10.

Lynmar Estate

Lynmar Estate enjoy a Summer Tasting Lunch that includes a three-course meal and two wines at your own private table in the gardens. Chef David Frakes prepares an elegant lunch from ingredients gathered from the Estate gardens and local farmers. Wines poured may include 2016 Sweeney Vineyards Chardonnay and 2018 Quail Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir. Tastings are $60 per person. Lunch is offered Thursday – Sunday at $110 per person.

Croix Estate

Longtime Napa winemaker, Kirk P. Venge purchased the former Robert Rue property in 2015, renovated the barn and home and invites guests by reservation to his wine tasting experience. His silky Pinot Noirs offer a robust jam-like flavor and his Chardonnays are medium to full-bodied with the essence of caramelized orchard fruit. Croix offers a one-on-one experience on Wednesday through Sunday only. Contact them on their website for tasting opportunities.

Le Crema

At the top of a long driveway, The La Crema Estate at Saralee’s Vineyard offers a tasting room for their acclaimed Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. On a knoll, visit the historic barn that dates back to 1900.  La Crema Estate tastings highlight six wines showcasing their cool-climate varietals for $30 per guest. They also offer an  La Crema intimate 5 barrel tasting for $60 per person, and a golf cart tour of the vineyards and estate, plus a walking tour and tasting of their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays for $75 a guest.

MacRostie Winery

This Estate is open daily with advance reservations. Wine tastings highlight five wines, with a focus on their single-vineyard Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast. Knowledgeable wine ambassadors guide guests through their highly acclaimed wines for $35 per person.

Be sure to purchase a bottle or two of your favorite wines at these wineries to enjoy at home. Don’t have any regrets…drink more wine!

Feature photo Lynmar Estate Chef David Frakes and Wine Host Drew Lynch