Running the gamut from brand-spanking-new to freshly remodeled, these five Wine Country tasting rooms are well worth a trip and a toast.
IN 1889, workers chipped away at the side of a dormant volcano crater on Mount Veeder to make room for a stone winery. The estate just received a refreshing facelift in honor of its 125th anniversary, and recently reopened to the public. Along with a classic tasting experiences, visitors can also indulge in a jaunty sport utility vehicle ride across the winery’s beautifully rugged 465 acres. 1155 Lokoya Rd, Napa
What to drink: 2009 Mayacamas Merlot
The newly remodeled tasting room at Dutton-Goldfield offers refreshingly new ways to enjoy the tasting experience. "Beast & Pinot" is a seated adventure that guides you through four limited-production, single-vineyard Pinot Noir wines, partnered with local artisan charcuterie made from duck, rabbit, pig, and cow. Make your reservations at least 24 hours in advance, since this VIP experience fills up fast. Selections include the coveted 2012 Devil’s Gulch Vineyard Pinot Noir, along with pig and rabbit sourced from Marin's Devil's Gulch Ranch. 3100 Gravenstein Hwy N, Sebastopol
What to drink: 2013 Green Valley Vineyard Gewurztraminer
The Tuscan-style stone building sits in the heart of downtown, featuring a luxuriously decoroated living room, dining room, and library—no jostling for space at a crowded tasting bar. The décor is sourced from Ralph Lauren Home, and if you see something you like—be it a couch or chandelier—the space doubles as a store, so you can add add your selections to your bill and simply take it with you. 6495 Washington Street, Yountville
What to drink: 2014 Apollo's Folly Rosé of Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast
At Jigar wines, kick back in the rustic, wood-trimmed tasting room in Forestville, or opt for a private tasting in the Jigar cellar at the winery facility on Dry Creek Road in Healdsburg. In an up-close-and-personal bonus, the by-appointment affairs are often led by the owners, Jigar and Stephanie Patel. 6615 Front St, Forestville
What to drink: 2013 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel
This longtime favorite just dialed up their tasting experience, thanks to a new bocce court and vineyard walk trail. For a posh experience, book the private Bocce in the Vineyard experience, which lasts for two hours for up to 12 adults. Think linen-draped umbrella-capped tables, a bottle of chilled Chenin Blanc or Fumé Blanc, and a personal concierge to fetch more wine, cheese, and even that errant bocce ball. 3770 Lambert Bridge Rd, Healdsburg
What to drink: 2010 Sonoma County Meritage
