“What the heck are people doing growing grapes and making wine from way out on a ridge top above the cold Pacific Ocean? I mean, it is remote. And mountainous. And, frankly, the weather can be a little inhospitable at times.” The quick answer goes something like – this is where our research and luck led us. The longer answer follows.....
Longtime friends Todd Williams and Rodney Strong created Toad Hollow Vineyards when they released their first vintage of unoaked chardonnay in 1994. As one of the leaders in unoaked Chardonnay, their consistent style featuring bright, crisp fruit flavors, continues to be a favorite.
Anaba wines are handcrafted from the best Rhône and Burgundian grape varieties grown at our Carneros Estate vineyard and in selected outstanding vineyard properties throughout Sonoma County. Anaba Wines Rhône-style wines are artistic blends, inspired by the rugged earthiness of France's Rhône Valley and replicated in the rocky Sonoma soils.
Hart's Desire had absolutely exceptional wines, and very many at that. They had a lot of varietals that you rarely find elsewhere in Sonoma County except for in blends, such as Malbec, Claret, and Cabernet Franc. Their tasting room has beautiful artwork and has an old school jukebox playing great tunes!
At just five years old, Harry Merlo Sr. began his journey in the wine industry, stomping grapes with his feet beneath the railroad tracks in the Italian section of Stirling City, California. His father, Giuseppe Merlo, an Italian immigrant known as the wine steward of the High Sierra lumber town, would place a washtub on the woodshed floor, dump in a 50-pound lug of zinfandel grapes, and young Harry would eagerly stomp away. Harry often jokes that his years in wine qualify him as a true connoisseur—thanks to his permanently purple feet.
The family tradition flourished when Harry acquired his own vineyard near Geyserville, California, in 1965. By the mid-1960s, he delivered his first truckload of grapes to the Italian Swiss Colony Winery, receiving a receipt priced at $50 per ton after weighing his truck.
This passion for winemaking extended to the next generation, with Harry’s son, Harry Jr., pursuing viticulture and enology at California State University, Fresno. After graduation, Harry Jr. took the reins as Manager of Lago di Merlo Vineyards & Winery at the family’s Merlo Ranch in Sonoma County.
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The wines are great. There are two basic tasting menus, the market list and the reserve list. The market list is wine you can find at your local store. Most of these wines are good, but for the really good stuff you won't see in stores spend a bit more and sample the reserve list.
This place doesn't have boutique winery hipster appeal so if you're looking for that, go elsewhere. The pourer we talked to works in the field with the winemaker; she said that they all wear many hats. The people behind the tasting counter are just wonderful. Last time it was the wine maker himself! Though he said it's rare to find him doing the tasting.
Established in 2006, Alpha Omega is a gem for California wine lovers, dedicated to crafting artisanal, handcrafted wines that beautifully blend Old World vineyard traditions with New World innovation. Their mission focuses on capturing the unique terroir of Napa Valley, allowing each bottle to express a true sense of place.
Nestled on the Rutherford Bench in the heart of Napa Valley, Alpha Omega welcomes visitors with a warm and inviting atmosphere, mirroring the authentic spirit of the Napa Valley farming community. The winery's founders, Robin and Michelle Baggett, have always prioritized creating world-class wines in a convivial setting, a commitment that has remained strong since they first opened their doors on July 1, 2006.
The picturesque surroundings at Alpha Omega are nothing short of breathtaking, featuring charming water fountains, a serene reflecting pond, and stunning views of the Mayacamas Mountains. This stunning backdrop provides the perfect ambiance for savoring the handcrafted wines produced from grapes sourced from prestigious, historic vineyards, all expertly managed by Alpha Omega’s talented winemaking team.
Visitors are greeted by a friendly staff of knowledgeable wine educators, eager to share their passion for wine in a setting that feels like a postcard from paradise. The winery’s modern farm-style architecture, located along the famous Highway 29, enhances the experience, making it a delightful destination for those seeking beautiful wines and a memorable visit.
When Robin and Michelle first toured the valley in 2005, they envisioned creating an estate that rivaled the finest in Napa. Drawing on their diverse backgrounds—Robin as a seasoned attorney and grape grower, and Michelle as an international hotel interior designer turned hospitality marketing expert—they brought their ambitious vision to life. The name Alpha Omega, conceived in 2005, reflects their commitment to delivering the ultimate winery experience from start to finish. Today, Alpha Omega proudly stands as one of the top wineries in the region, inviting all to indulge in its extraordinary offerings.
Image - Old Vine Zinfandel - photographer Randy Caparoso
Hanna Winery was founded in 1985 by Dr. Elias Hanna, a world-renowned cardiac surgeon, who was eager to find a place in the country to continue the farming heritage of his upbringing in Syria. In the 1970s he realized his dream with the purchase of 12 acres in the Russian River Valley. Dr. Hanna's oldest daughter Christine now runs the winery. Great location, excellent views and a really nice and modern tasting room. Hanna makes a wide variety of wines and I was taken by their Elias Pinot Noir.
ALEXANDER VALLEY TASTING ROOM RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY TASTING ROOM
9280 HWY 128, Healdsburg, CA 95448 | 707.431.4310 x116 5353 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 | 707.431.4310 x140
Open Daily: 10:00am – 4:00pm Open Daily: 10:00am – 4:00pm
With renowned winemaker Helen Turley behind the scenes, they produce incredibly rich Pinots and Zins, plus a host of delicious white wine.
