Stunning views in Sonoma
Good views & good wines
You can’t live in California and not love a great view—the bay, the ocean, the hills, the Sierras. They’re all reasons why the thought of moving back to the East Coast feels… underwhelming. That said, I’ve definitely had some mediocre wine that got a pass simply because the scenery was doing the heavy lifting. But that shouldn’t be the case—Sonoma offers plenty of wineries where both the wine and the views are worth savoring. (Admittedly, these are on the pricier end. Perhaps one day I’ll do a “Best bargain views” post?)
Gary Farrell: Classic, Beautiful, Bring the In-Laws
Dating back to 1982, Gary Farrell is an oldie but a goodie. Known for its elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the winery captures the essence of its terroir through small-lot, single-vineyard production. Recognized as a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits magazine, it's a classic for a reason.
Tasting Overview: A scenic tasting experience with a hilltop terrace offering breathtaking views of the valley. A beautiful (pun intended) way to explore the delicate diversity of Pinots. Definitely impressive enough for the in-laws—or a date you actually like.
Notable Varietals:
🍷 Red: Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir, and (for variety) more Pinot Noir—plus the occasional old-vine Zin.
🥂 White: Chardonnay, available in multiple vineyard designates and blends.
Other Essentials:
🍷📅✅ Booking Link
🍾💲 Median Bottle Price: ($70-100)
Lynmar Estate: meticulously crafted (the wines, the views and the lunch)
Lynmar is the whole package—pristine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, stunningly landscaped grounds, and a culinary program that actually holds its own against the wine. The estate’s commitment to matching each vine to its ideal soil and microclimate results in wines that truly showcase Sonoma’s cool climate and volcanic soils.
Tasting Experience: A seated tasting of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, complemented by sweeping vineyard views. Opt for the seasonally inspired multi-course wine-paired lunch (a splurge at $250++pp, but decadent) or take a stroll through their pollinator garden before settling in with a glass on their stunning patio.
Noteworthy Varietals:
🍷Red: Pinot Noir – with multiple estate and single-vineyard bottlings from Russian River and Sonoma Coast.
🥂White: Chardonnay
Other Essentials:
🍷📅✅ Booking Link
🍾💲 Median Bottle Price: ($70-100)
Skipstone: for a luxurious view
Skipstone Ranch is where luxury meets precision winemaking. This estate winery is famed for its Bordeaux-style wines, crafted under the watchful eye of Philippe Melka (who has an almost suspiciously long list of 100-point wines) and now Laura Jones. Their meticulously farmed organic vineyards and artisanal approach result in powerful yet polished wines, try the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon-based Oliver’s Blend and the Cabernet Franc/Merlot Faultline blend.
Tasting Experience: A work of beauty. Personalized tours, gourmet pairings, and light bites from their on-site garden make for an elevated experience. And oh, yes, views.
Noteworthy Varietals:
🍷 Red: Cabernet Sauvignon is the cornerstone. Other Bordeaux reds include Cabernet Franc and Merlot. 🥂White: Viognier
🍾Sparkling: Skipstone releases a proprietary Champagne (produced in France via méthode champenoise)
Other Essentials:
🍷📅✅ Booking Link
🍾💲Median Bottle Price: $ ($100+)