Buena Vista Winery, California’s Oldest Winery, estab. 1857 sonoma, CA

Just 45 minutes north of San Francisco lies Sonoma Wine country, one of the trendiest grape-growing enclaves in Northern California. Many know Napa with its famed vintners and Micheline-starred restaurants. But Sonoma is its more rustic—and more accessible—cousin over the hill, home to more than 425 wineries ranging from rustic to regal.

Here you can cruise along the rugged Pacific coastline or tour wine estates and hike among the vines zipping over the hillside. You may spot deer and wildlife as you wander among towering redwoods or crest mountains with spectacular vista points. Afterward, you can sit back and enjoy the small towns and cheerful accommodations and eateries that most often welcome visitors with a glass of local cabernet. The big draw will naturally be wine tasting. Many wineries offer walk-in tastings in a variety of settings for your sipping pleasure.

Private Tastings are also available in a variety of venues. These can include barrel tastings, food and wine pairings, personalized tastings, estate tours, and behind-the-scenes wine education. Some wineries will even let you create your own vintage for special events or weddings.

Sonoma has everything you need for a fantastic holiday: tasty cuisine, quirky shops, affordable accommodations, luxurious spas, and a cornucopia of wine options in this wine wonderland. You will want to return again and again. Cheers!