Sonoma County
Small family wineries in Santa Rosa
Tiny cellars where the person pouring may well have made the wine. The Santa Rosa spots worth seeking out.
Russian River Valley
Benovia Winery
Small enough to meet the maker. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel
Russian River Valley
Emeritus Vineyards
Small enough to meet the maker. Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley
Rochioli Vineyards & Winery
Small enough to meet the maker. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Russian River Valley
Williams Selyem
Small enough to meet the maker. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel
Russian River Valley
Limerick Lane Cellars
Small enough to meet the maker. Zinfandel, Syrah
Want the perfect day, not a list?
Answer four questionsGood to know
What are the best small family wineries in Santa Rosa?
Start with Benovia Winery, Emeritus Vineyards and Rochioli Vineyards & Winery.
How many wineries can you visit in a day in Santa Rosa?
Three or four is the sweet spot: about an hour each, plus a proper lunch. Five is possible if the cellars are small and close together.
How do you get around Sonoma wine country without driving?
Private driver for the day (about US$95–150 per hour, 4-hour minimum); Small-group wine tour (about US$150–200 per person, full day); Walk the Healdsburg plaza (free). Every Grapevine itinerary lists these local options; book them directly.
When is the best time to visit?
Open year-round. Harvest runs mid-August to October; winter is quiet, rainy and the easiest time to get seated tastings.