A continuation of our itinerary ideas, we’ve highlighted 12 more Dry Creek Valley wineries you simply won’t want to miss on your next visit. If you’re seeking great patios to enjoy wine tastings, looking to try grapes you’ve never tasted, or looking for wineries where you can bring your dog, these short lists will help you plan perfect days in wine country.
1) Uncommon Grape Varieties and Wines
Here is a guide to wineries you’ll want to visit if you’re seeking to try grape varieties and blends you’ve never had before.
David Coffaro Vineyard and Winery – David Coffaro is a tireless experimenter. He grows all the grapes Dry Creek Valley is most known for, and he also grows such obscurities as the Portuguese grape souzao and France’s peloursin and tannat. Despite the rarity of these grapes, Coffaro’s wines are bold and accessible, and you’re guaranteed to find something you love.
DaVero Farms and Winery – This certified biodynamic winery specializes in Italian grape varieties, and we aren’t just talking sangiovese. Stop into the tasting room for a taste of Dry Creek Valley barbera, dolcetto, and pinot nero. Don’t expect a taste of their highly-coveted, most premium wine–Sagrantino–but know that if you like their other wines, this rarity is worth the splurge for a bottle.
Unti Vineyards – Another winery emphasizing Italian and Rhone grape varieties. Here you’ll find a refreshing Rhone-style white blend featuring vermentino, grenache blanc, and picpoul and a delicious montepulciano.
Amista Vineyards – Dry Creek Valley’s only winery to specialize in sparkling wines from the region, Amista Vineyards frequently expands their library of bubbles. Right now, you can enjoy a champagne-like sparkling Blanc de blanc from chardonnay, sparkling syrah (yes, it’s red), and a delicious sparkling grenache.
2) Wineries with Patios
With long sunny days for so much of the year, you’ll want to take in the blue skies and lush vineyard views while enjoying wine and tasty snacks.
Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery – This summer, Ferrari-Carano opened their patio “Il Terrazzo” for outdoor tastings that come with tasty small bites of charcuterie, cheese, and olives. The winery is beautiful inside and out, so we’re thrilled there’s now a comfy place to taste while enjoying views of their vineyards, gardens, and magnificent fountains.
Sbragia Family Vineyards – You can purchase wine from the tasting room at Sbragia and bring a picnic or purchase gourmet snacks from their deli case to enjoy on their elevated terrace. The views of Dry Creek Valley are as good as their incredible wines.
Geyser Peak Winery – A winery dating back to 1880–but a newcomer to Dry Creek Valley, many visitors to the area haven’t yet dropped in for a tasting at Geyser Peak’s welcoming tasting room. Their back patio makes for a lovely place to soak up the sun or play a game of corn hole.
Bella Vineyards and Wine Cave – Taste wines inside Bella’s dimly lit cave, then emerge for a hillside picnic and take in the views or make friends with other guests. It’s a special and unique experience to enjoy their Lily Hill Zinfandel just feet from the vineyard.
3) Pet-friendly wineries
Bringing your dog on vacation doesn’t have to limit you–there are plenty of Dry Creek Valley wineries where you can taste fabulous wines and mingle with man’s best friend.
Dutcher Crossing – Two lovely labrador retrievers hang out at Dutcher Crossing most days, and you’re welcome to bring your four-legged friends with you, too, so long as they’re as friendly as Dutchess and Remy.
Lambert Bridge Winery – Pets are not allowed inside the stunning tasting room at Lambert Bridge, but there is plenty of outdoor space for guests to hang out with their dogs while savoring tastes of premium small production wines.
Michel-Schlumberger Wine Estates – This 110 acre property features a spacious Tasting Salon, a courtyard, gardens, and a redwood grove. There’s plenty for you and your pups to explore.
Chateau Diana – A winery well-known for their welcoming and fun-loving staff, Chateau Diana will also welcome your pets into their tasting room.
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