October is possibly the best time to visit Sonoma and Napa, and if you’re looking for a luxe experience for the day, or overnight, here are a few ideas for your fall vacation to Wine Country.
Make it easy on yourself by signing up for a day of wine tasting and nibbles — here are a few options that won’t disappoint.
From Daytime…
Domaine Carneros, Plats des Perles
Carneros
New this month, enjoy oysters and bubbles at Domaine Carneros’ beautiful French chateau with iconic views of Napa Valley. The experience begins with guests descending a secluded staircase into the swanky Art Deco-inspired lounge called “Salon des Reves.” Emerging into this moody green and gold themed space, a welcome splash of bubbles will set the tone for an elegant pairing of three sparkling wines and oysters. Customize and enhance your tasting with imported Tsar Nicoulai caviar and fresh ceviche, or additional oysters.
Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Estate Tour & Tasting
Alexander Valley
A four-hour journey that includes hikes through the 1,200-acre estate, stopping for tastings of their award-winning wines paired with seasonal delicacies, starting with charcuterie and chardonnay under the olive trees, followed by cabernet sauvignon paired with artisan cheeses or local beef. The experience concludes with a relaxed sit-down tasting in the Jordan dining room, where the chef creates dishes inspired by the estate’s wines.
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Wine & Food Pairing
Sonoma Valley
Set in the heart of Sonoma Valley, this award-winning, five-course tasting menu is designed to complement the estate’s wines, with sustainably farmed pairings like pan-seared duck breast for their zinfandel or a crisp sauvignon blanc served alongside delicate scallop ceviche. Also, in honor of St. Francis — patron saint of animals — dogs are welcome.
… To Night.
Spa Night at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Sonoma
For a bucket list, lifetime memory, you and a handful of your closest friends can rent out the entire spa, including the bathhouse bathing ritual and geothermal mineral baths at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. Toast the evening with caviar and a bottle of Sonoma sparkling wine and allow your private concierge to help curate an evening you won’t forget.
Private Stargazing and Wine Tasting at Robert Ferguson Observatory
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Sonoma
After dark, guests are treated to an exclusive sunset hike or vineyard walk, and then a guided tour of the stars through high-powered telescopes, all while enjoying a private tasting of local wines from nearby wineries like St. Francis or Ledson.
Ram’s Gate Winery, Full Moon Vineyard Dinner
Sonoma
A seasonal event that takes place on nights when the moon illuminates the rolling hills of the estate’s vineyards. Guests are invited to savor a multi-course meal under the moonlight, paired with Ram’s Gate’s limited-production wines.
