The Wineries of Healdsburg
Healdsburg is known for its charming streets, eclectic shops, and small town atmosphere surrounded by the finest wineries of the Sonoma Valley. But where to begin?
Dry Creek Vineyard is known for its high-quality wines, affordable prices, and experienced staff. Founded in 1972 by David Stare, it was the first new winery built in the Dry Creek Valley since Prohibition. In the late 1960s, David moved his family across the country to fulfill his dream of making wine. Inspired by the dry, fruity wines of the Loire Valley in France, he was the first to plant Sauvignon Blanc in the Dry Creek Valley. In the 1980s, David combined two of his passions, winemaking and sailing, by incorporating boats onto the labels. This made their wines easily recognizable, and they quickly became known as the “wine for sailors.” Our Sonoma Wine Tours can take you to the tasting room where you’ll sample their Fumé Blanc and Zinfandel wines. You’ll also enjoy strolling through the beautiful picnic grounds or even a game of bocce ball.
Jordan Vineyard and Winery is known for its elegant wine service, beautiful gardens, and attentive staff. Founded in 1972 by Tom and Sally Jordan, this couple from Colorado shared a love of French wine and food, which eventually led them to follow their dream of becoming vintners. While visiting San Francisco, the Jordan’s realized they could fulfill their dream of owning a French-inspired vineyard in Northern California. After purchasing a remote piece of land in the Alexander Valley, they planted their first Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot vines. In 1978, they completed construction of their hilltop winery, overlooking the grapevines in the valley below. Our Limo Wine Tours can take you to the chateau where you’ll enjoy their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines with paired hors d’oeuvres and artisan cheeses. You can also walk the beautifully landscaped grounds or visit the chef’s garden.
Rodney Strong Vineyards is known for its surprisingly relaxed atmosphere, sweeping views of the Russian River Valley, and knowledgeable staff. Founded in 1959 by Rodney Strong, this professional dancer returned from four years in Paris with a deep love of French wines. This experience shaped his secondary career as he retired from dance, married his dancing partner and opened his first winery. In 1962, he purchased a vineyard in Windsor where he planted the first Chardonnay vines in the region. They quickly expanded to the Russian River Valley where he planted Pinot Noir and built the winery that now serves as their tasting room. In 1989, the Klein family purchased Rodney Strong Vineyards, modernized the winemaking techniques and elevated the brand. Our Wine Country Tours can take you to the tasting room to sample their single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Reserve Meritage. The outdoor terrace features seated wine flights and food pairings. The winery also hosts an outdoor Summer Concert Series featuring top musicians and sweeping views of the valley.
Make sure to add these top-rated wineries to your Sonoma Wine Tours must-visit list!
