What's New In Sonoma County – Winter 2026

Winter sets a different rhythm in Sonoma County. The pace softens, and the landscape exhales as valleys and vineyards grow quiet, and vines rest, gathering strength for the season ahead. Rain showers move through our region, followed by clear days and wide-open blue skies. The slower season leaves room for unhurried conversations and genuine moments of connection, inviting you to be present and experience our region at its most reflective. This is winter in Sonoma County, where “Life Opens Up.”

New in Hotels

Madeira House
Winter 2026
Madeira House is a new boutique stay on the Sonoma Coast, set where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean in the town of Jenner. The intimate property spans 11 rooms across three restored houses, pairing coastal restraint with warm, residential design. Many rooms offer river or ocean views, private decks, fireplaces, and select kitchenettes, while the overall experience is intentionally quiet and unplugged. With gardens, waterfront seating, and immediate access to coastal trails and beaches, Madeira House offers visitors a fresh lens on Sonoma County lodging beyond Wine Country, rooted in landscape, calm, and a strong sense of place.

Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country

A new Hyatt Place is under construction in Sonoma County near Charles Schulz - Sonoma County Airport (STS). The 165-room Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country is expected to open for guests in late 2026. The hotel will offer brand-style rooms, meeting spaces, a pool, a gym, outdoor areas, and a rooftop restaurant and bar with views of flights arriving and departing at STS. The lobby will include a bar serving local wines, beer, spirits, and Starbucks coffee, along with a 24/7 To-Go corner. A breakfast space and social areas are designed to appeal to business and leisure travelers alike. The project reflects growing investment in hospitality infrastructure supporting Sonoma County Wine Country tourism.

New in Wineries

Sol Rei Wines

Sol Rei Wines, a boutique, women-owned producer known for low-histamine, low-sulfite wines that are lab-tested to be free of detectable pesticides and other residues, has opened a new tasting room in downtown Sonoma. The space is designed as a light, nature-inspired retreat that reflects the brand's focus on purity, sustainability, and connection to the land and the craft of winemaking. Artistic touches include a mural of local wine grapes and a grapevine embedded in the bar, tying the tasting experience to the vineyards that supply the wines. Founder Katherine Kitzmiller created Sol Rei after a personal health journey led her to prioritize clean, intentional winemaking; the winery has quickly earned national honors for its 2023 vintage wines.

Marietta Cellars

Marietta Cellars has opened its first tasting room in downtown Healdsburg after 47 years as a Sonoma County staple known for its Old Vine Red and other approachable wines. The space, in a former police station near the Healdsburg Plaza, highlights the winery's small-lot, artisanal selections rather than its widely distributed labels. Designed by co-owner and designer Lisa Steinkamp with a contemporary feel, the tasting room offers flights, glasses, and bottles of single-estate and experimental wines in a relaxed setting with indoor seating and a leafy patio.

About Sonoma County Tourism

Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) is the official organization responsible for destination stewardship in California's Sonoma County. Committed to cultivating a vibrant economy through inclusivity, sustainability, and community connections, SCT promotes the area as a welcoming destination for all. Learn more about the organization's innovative efforts to support the local economy responsibly at sonomacounty.com/partners/about-sonoma-county-tourism/.
Wolves Lovers + Thieves

A new tasting room focused exclusively on sparkling wines has opened in Glen Ellen, adding a unique stop for Sonoma County Wine Country travelers. Wolves Lovers + Thieves brings a curated selection of bubbles to Sonoma Valley's tasting scene, giving visitors a reason to schedule a dedicated sparkling wine stop on their itineraries. The launch reflects broader confidence in Sonoma County's tasting room growth this year, with several new wine destinations debuting across the destination

Sonoma County Winegrowers

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Reservoir launched Reservoir Farms, Sonoma, the first on-farm robotics and automation hub for vineyards and the flagship of SCW's Farm of the Future initiative. The site includes fabrication space, an engineering workshop, and 14 acres of vineyard test blocks where startups and AgTech partners develop and test new tools with grower input. The hub addresses labor shortages, rising costs, and production pressures while supporting job growth and local innovation. Reservoir expects to bring six startups into the incubator by late 2025, strengthening Sonoma County's leadership in sustainable, tech-driven viticulture.

New in Restaurants

Bubbles & Delights Café

Petaluma's newest breakfast spot, Bubbles & Delights Café, is drawing attention for its lively take on morning meals. Locals are calling it a “truly unique breakfast place” with a menu of scratch-made classics and bubbly drinks, including mimosas alongside farm-fresh eggs and hearty plates served with care. The cafe opens early for daily breakfast and brunch and adds a fresh, community-oriented voice to Petaluma's food scene.

Aroma de Cafe

Aroma de Café, located in the heart of Railroad Square, one of Downtown Santa Rosa's most historic districts, has opened, signaling a fresh chapter in Santa Rosa's dining scene. Owners Luis Rodriguez and Alejandra Bravo have relocated their well-loved brunch cafe from Fifth Street to the larger Railroad Square location, where they will continue serving Latin and American brunch favorites. The expanded space allows the cafe to grow while staying connected to the neighborhood's historic character and steady flow of locals and visitors. Adding to its appeal, chef Carlos Mojica of Guiso Latin Fusion has introduced a dinner-only Latin-Italian menu, broadening the restaurant's reach from a daytime brunch favorite into an all-day and evening destination.

Pick's Roadside

Pick's Roadside in the far northern Sonoma County town of Cloverdale has reopened with fresh energy while honoring its century-old roots. The drive-in first opened in 1923 and has become a local landmark known for burgers, milkshakes and root beer. After a complete renovation and menu reboot, the reimagined Pick's features premium Wagyu beef burgers, classic shakes and a curated Sonoma County wine list, blending old-school charm with modern tastes. New owners Anidel Hospitality led the revival to preserve the site's historic spirit and create a community gathering place with a Sonoma County Wine Country twist. The original neon sign and nostalgic feel remain, drawing longtime fans and newcomers alike. This relaunch places Pick's back at the heart of downtown Cloverdale and positions it as a must-visit stop for travelers exploring Wine Country and Northern Sonoma County.

The Porch Kitchen

Longtime caterer and chef Lisa Boisset of The Cook and The Drummer has opened The Porch Kitchen in the former Goatlandia Kitchen space in Sebastopol. The Laguna Parkway restaurant behind The Barlow previously served as the animal rescue's catering kitchen and, briefly, a vegan cafe. Boisset has revamped the patio into an upscale grab-and-go space that's quickly gaining buzz as a place to linger and dine.

New in Airlines

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines has decided to add more flights between Denver and Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa before its new service even begins. The airline will start flying from Sonoma County to Denver in April 2026, with trips available for sale now. The early expansion will add more departures than originally planned. This move responds to strong demand for nonstop Denver service from inbound and outbound travelers. The expanded schedule will offer travelers more weekend and weekday options to fly between Sonoma County and Denver when the route launches this spring.

New in Experiences

Jack London State Historic Park

Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen is marking the 150th anniversary of the novelist's birth with a full year of public programming and special events. Planned events through 2026 include a quarterly speaker series featuring scholars and London's great-granddaughter, a “Call of the Wild Day” family celebration with art, music, and guided walks, and gala events. The program also introduces new offerings such as an online “Around the World on the Jack London Trail” guide and themed trail challenges to highlight London's global travels and local legacy. This yearlong initiative aims to blend heritage interpretation with immersive tourism experiences in a beautiful, hike-friendly setting at a California state park.

New in Wellness

Park Rx- Forest Bathing Walks

Forest Therapy, also known as Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing, continues to gain attention for its proven health and well-being benefits. Originating in Japan, this guided walking practice focuses on slowing down, reducing stress, and engaging the senses to support mental and physical restoration. In Sonoma County, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers a recurring Forest Therapy Series as part of its Park Rx Program, held on the fourth Sunday of each month from March through November. Led by certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy practitioners, the experience introduces participants to simple techniques designed to deepen presence and enhance the restorative impact of time spent in nature. The program highlights Sonoma County's commitment to accessible, science-backed wellness experiences set within protected natural landscapes.

Elevate Sonoma

A new wellness destination is opening in Sonoma with the launch of Elevate Sonoma, a clinic offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy and red-light therapy. The facility features hyperbaric sessions that increase oxygen delivery in a pressurized environment to support healing, recovery, and overall well-being, while complementary red-light therapy aims to enhance results. The clinic brings a modern health and recovery option to Sonoma County's wellness landscape, positioning the region as a lifestyle travel destination for visitors seeking restorative experiences beyond traditional wine and outdoor offerings.

For the Good of the Cause

Russian River Brewing Company

Russian River Brewing Company, the Sonoma County brewery behind Pliny the Elder, the globally acclaimed craft beer repeatedly named among the best beers in the world, is pairing purpose with production in 2026. The brewery has introduced Russian River 110, a West Coast–style pilsner created to support Russian Riverkeeper, the nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the Russian River watershed. A portion of net proceeds from expanded production, and the beer's first bottled release will fund local conservation efforts. The release underscores how one of America's most influential craft breweries continues to connect its beer, its place, and its environmental stewardship, giving visitors another reason to experience Sonoma County's craft beer scene firsthand.

What's New In Sonoma County For Fall 2025

With the arrival of autumn, Sonoma County is beginning to glow with brilliant oranges, golden yellows, and moody ambers as our region moves to the rhythm of the seasonal harvest. Crisp mornings carry the scent of crushed grapes and falling leaves, while vineyard crews work under soft sunlight. From Healdsburg to the Sonoma Coast, vines blush with ripe fruit, welcoming visitors to taste the results of hands-on care. In this season, Sonoma County Wine Country becomes more than a place; it's a shared experience rooted in community, hospitality, and connection.

The fall season brings celebrations that reflect the spirit behind the vines. Fireside dinners, winemaker hikes, and Sonoma County Signature Experiences offer intimate ways to connect with the land. Set against a landscape dressed in vivid foliage, these gatherings showcase local bounty grounded in our deep agricultural heritage. This is Sonoma County Wine County at harvest: vibrant, inclusive, and unmistakably “for all of us.”

New in Hotels

Vinarosa Resort & Spa

Vinarosa Resort & Spa (formerly Vintners Resort) has unveiled a $15+ million transformation, ushering in a new chapter of Wine Country elegance. The reimagined resort offers laid-back luxury, blending upscale comfort with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Highlights include thoughtfully appointed rooms and suites; a spacious new lobby with a wine and coffee bar and expanded retail offerings; refreshed meeting and event spaces; and resort pool that complements the indulgent spa and wellness program, which features locally sourced, organic products. A revitalized culinary program is led by Executive Chef Sergio Howland, who brings a new vision rooted in the estate's 92-acres of vineyards, gardens, and orchards. Guests can enjoy a new farm-to-table menu and immersive chef-led experiences such as vineyard tours and picnics, culinary gardening and cooking classes, estate farmers markets, and wine blending and tastings.

Caesars Republic Sonoma County

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians, in partnership with Caesars Entertainment, has broken ground on a landmark project that will transform River Rock Casino in Geyserville into Caesars Republic Sonoma County, a premier resort destination set to debut in summer 2027. The expansive new development will feature a 100-room luxury hotel complete with a spa, pool, and fitness center. Guests will enjoy an array of elevated dining experiences, including a signature steakhouse, upscale café, fireside bar, sports bar, and a dedicated wine bar with an outdoor deck offering sweeping views of the Alexander Valley, the acclaimed Northern Sonoma County wine region celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals.

Dawn Ranch

Dawn Ranch has introduced The Rover's Recharge; the world's first sleep wellness program designed specifically for dogs. This unique package highlights the resort's philosophy that rejuvenation should be shared by all members of the family, including four-legged companions. The Rover's Recharge is offered as a bookable add-on for a two-night stay. Each guest cabin is transformed into a calming space for dogs and includes a Pendleton Mountain-plaid pet bed, ElleVet Sciences Calm & Comfort Chews to encourage relaxation, a Thunderworks calming scent mist for aromatherapy, a dog-safe weighted blanket to promote a sense of security, and curated Spotify playlists accessible by QR code that are scientifically crafted to soothe pets. This program reflects Dawn Ranch's broader commitment to wellness, where human guests already enjoy spa treatments, creative workshops, outdoor experiences, and chef-driven dining in a peaceful setting of redwood groves, orchards, and meadows. By providing thoughtful comforts for dogs, the retreat is redefining pet-friendly travel and recognizing that when pets rest well, the overall experience is more enjoyable for both animals and their owners.

New in Wine

Solo Nostro Wines

Ted Seghesio, a fourth-generation winemaker from the historic Sonoma County winemaking family, has launched Solo Nostro with his wife, Dana, bringing their legacy of passion, craftsmanship, and innovation. The brand's first tasting room has opened at Bacchus Landing, a collaborative space also home to Dot Wines and Smith Story Wine Cellars. Solo Nostro, meaning “ours alone” in Italian, represents both a personal rebirth for Ted and a new chapter the couple proudly calls their own.

Montagne Russe Winery & Record Lounge

Montagne Russe Winery & Record Lounge has opened its doors in downtown Petaluma. Founded in 2015 by Kevin Bersofsky, who began crafting small-lot Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah in his garage, the winery takes its name from the French term for “roller coaster,” a nod to the highs and lows of winemaking. After flourishing in the Healdsburg area, Montagne Russe now brings its unique concept to Petaluma with a new tasting room that doubles as a record store. The space blends the sophistication of AVA-focused, handcrafted wines with the nostalgic charm of vinyl, offering more than 4,000 records for sale. Playful yet refined, Montagne Russe creates a multi-sensory experience where wine and music come together in perfect harmony.

Overshine Collective

Former Google executive David Drummond is reshaping Sonoma County's wine scene with The Overshine Collective, a collaborative group that now includes Martha Stoumen Wines, Reeve Wines, and BloodRoot Wines. Rather than traditional acquisitions, Drummond's model gives founders equity and creative freedom, while consolidating backend operations like finance and distribution to boost efficiency and allow greater focus on winemaking. The collective builds on prior investments including Idlewild Wines, Armida Winery (rebranded as Overshine Wines), Comunità, and the Las Cimas Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, now planted with rare Italian varietals led by winemaker Sam Bilbro. As consolidation grows across the industry, Drummond's approach preserves brand identity while promoting shared resources, collaboration, and expanded reach. The collective also aims to increase impact among underrepresented communities without compromising authenticity or control.

Sonoma County Winegrowers

The San Francisco Giants have teamed up with Sonoma County Winegrowers to launch an exclusive Giants Wine Club, a first-of-its-kind wine membership in Major League Baseball. Selections are handpicked by Evan Goldstein, MLB's first-ever Master Sommelier, who brings extraordinary expertise and a flair for pairing wine culture with baseball tradition. This innovative fan experience underscores the Giants' enduring connection to Sonoma County Wine Country and their reputation for creative, elevated programming in Northern California.

New in Restaurants

Bijou Petaluma

Bijou, meaning “jewel” in French, is the latest venture from the team behind Petaluma's Table Culture Provisions, chefs Stéphane Saint Louis and Steven Vargas with Marta Saint Louis. It offers a more approachable take on their Michelin-recommended cuisine in downtown Petaluma. The space blends modern comfort with community charm, featuring whitewashed walls, a concrete bar, minimalist tables, and exposed brick under warm metal-frame chandeliers—what Saint Louis calls his “jewel box for the community.” The seasonally rotating à la carte menu marries French technique with Sonoma ingredients, from duck-stuffed caramelle and truffle-topped croque monsieur to rib-eye with peppercorn sauce and Japanese sea bream with pistachio-caper sauce. Otello Tiano's cocktail program offers inventive originals, French-inspired classics, and a California-focused wine list. Balancing elevated technique with a warm, welcoming spirit, Bijou delivers refined hospitality, French-inspired flavors, and creative drinks, making it a polished yet inviting addition to Petaluma's dining scene.

Waterhawk Lake Club

Waterhawk Lake Club, the new lakeside venture from the team behind Petaluma's popular Brewsters Beer Garden, has opened in Rohnert Park. The refreshed venue features expansive views of Roberts Lake, luxe outdoor picnic seating, a fully redesigned interior, and a full bar led by beverage director Cappy Sorentino serving craft cocktails alongside approachable reimagined American classics. Owners Mike Goebel, Ben Hetzel and Sorentino have brought Brewsters' welcoming, communal ethos to this larger indoor-outdoor setting, making Waterhawk feel like an inviting summer hangout rather than an exclusive club.

The Burrow

Chef David Baeli and his wife Elise have opened The Burrow, a welcoming, family‑oriented café. Designed by parents for parents, the cozy spot features a thoughtfully curated chef‑driven menu for adults—including smash burgers, grilled salmon, duck‑fat potatoes and seasonal salads—and a separate “kid‑tested” menu (buttered noodles, mac & cheese, chicken tenders and more), plus an outdoor play area stocked with toys and books to keep little ones engaged. With a rotating array of craft beers from independently certified Sonoma County breweries, an approachable wine list and desserts like ice‑cream floats and almond‑flour cakes, The Burrow delivers elevated dining just off Healdsburg's town square.

Levant

Levant, a homestyle Middle Eastern restaurant, has opened in Petaluma's Theater District, offering flavors from Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine/Israel prepared in generous, family‑style portions. Created by Arafat “Art” Herzallah of San Francisco's Freekah—alongside local partners Saheer Kassis and Issa Musalla—the menu features cold mezze like hummus, labneh, baba ghanoush and muhamarra served with warm pita, hot bitesize dishes such as fried halloumi, falafel and cauliflower, and hearty entrees including kufta, lahme and the signature Jordanian mansaf with lamb, saffron rice and jameed. The intimate 1,700 sq ft space features warm, rustic decor, and service is enriched by Herzallah's wife, who shares family stories and plant‑based options.

Jimtown Store and Them Sum

After a five-year hiatus, the beloved Jimtown Store in Alexander Valley has reopened under the new name Jimtown & Then Sum, helmed by Michelle Wood, chef‑owner of the acclaimed dim sum catering company Dim Sum and Then Sum. While the rustic charm of the circa‑1893 building remains largely untouched, weathered plank walls, wood floors, shaded porch, Wood has infused the space with her signature Chinese‑American flavors. The revamped menu now blends traditional Jimtown staples like sandwiches, salads, breakfast pastries, coffee and deli items with dumplings, bao buns, spring rolls and poke bowls, debuting three weeks into operations after initial challenges integrating the labor-intensive dim sum menu. With roots as a classic highway pit stop for cyclists, locals, and visitors, the rejuvenated Jimtown now marries nostalgic charm with bold new flavors.

Salt & Sea

Salt & Sea, a new concept from Chef Jake Rand of Sushi Kosho, has joined the culinary scene at The Barlow in Sebastopol. Specializing in Hawaiian-style poke bowls, the eatery serves up marinated raw fish over seasoned rice with fresh, vibrant toppings like avocado, seaweed, and Maui onions. Rounding out the menu are inventive offerings such as spicy tuna nachos, Japanese-style finger sandwiches, bubble tea, and tropical fruit drinks. With its island-inspired flavors and light, satisfying fare, Salt & Sea adds a bold and refreshing twist to The Barlow's expanding food lineup.

Jimmy's Lakeside Café

Longtime Sonoma County restaurateur Jim Goff has brought fresh energy back to the Windsor Golf Club with the grand reopening of the lakeside dining spot under a new name, Jimmy's Lakeside Café. Goff, who ran Sky Lounge Steakhouse & Sushi Bar at Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport from 2007 to 2022, is known for his mix of comfort classics, creative sushi, steaks, solid drink offerings, and broad appeal. At Jimmy's Lakeside Café, he intends to carry forward that philosophy: approachable dishes using fresh local ingredients, with a polished yet casual vibe that resonates with both tourists and golfers. Goff is also putting renewed emphasis on the venue's standout feature, its lakeside patio, pairing “views, hospitality, and the connection to golf and wine country” with plans for live music, tastings, and event-driven menus.

New in Experiences

FieldNotes at SingleThread Farms

FieldNotes is SingleThread Farms' annual farm summit, a full day celebration of culinary artistry, agricultural connection, and community gathering at their Dry Creek Valley farm. The day begins with a welcome beverage and access to a makers' marketplace. Guests can select up to two hands-on workshops such as donabe cooking and dashi demonstrations with Chef Kyle Connaughton, floral design with Head Farmer Katina Connaughton, or a “Garden to Glass” cocktail session with Scott Beattie. Lunch will be a family-style meal sponsored by YETI and prepared by Chef Darryl Bell of Stateline Road Smokehouse. In the afternoon, journalist Guy Raz will moderate a panel discussion on agriculture, hospitality, and sustainability featuring voices from the culinary and farming world. The evening program begins with a champagne reception, oyster station, and seasonal canapés in the gardens. Guests will then enjoy a six-course collaborative dinner. Chef Kyle Connaughton will cook alongside Chef Matthew Kammerer of Harbor House Inn, and Chefs Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski of State Bird Provisions, The Progress, and The Anchovy Bar. The menu will highlight late summer and early fall ingredients from Northern California. A portion of ticket proceeds will support Sonoma Family Meal, and on-site fundraising will help strengthen the local food economy | Saturday, October 18 | 9:00 am and 6:00 pm | Healdsburg

Collectors Lunch at Lynmar Estate

Lynmar Estate has introduced a new wellness-driven experience that blends beauty, nourishment, and science-based principles of longevity. Launching with an early fall menu, the Collectors Lunch is a four-course, open-air wine country dining experience inspired by the world's Blue Zones; regions where people enjoy the longest, healthiest lives. Beyond clean food and natural movement, these communities thrive on social connection, which research links to reduced inflammation, lower risk of chronic disease, and longer lifespan. Set in Lynmar's heirloom gardens overlooking Quail Hill Vineyard, the experience is designed to cultivate that same sense of connection through shared meals, hyper-local anti-inflammatory ingredients, and thoughtful wine pairings. Estate Chef David Frakes brings intention to every dish, while proprietor Anisya Fritz describes the lunch as “an act of love… for ourselves and those we care about.” This curated experience is offered Thursday to Sunday through November.

New in Airlines

Alaska Airlines

Nonstop service between Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) and Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) returns this fall, with Alaska Airlines launching the seasonal route on October 26. The new flight connects the warmth of the desert with the laid-back luxury of Sonoma Wine Country, offering travelers a seamless journey between two beloved destinations. Alaska Airlines will operate the route with the Embraer 175, a comfortable, modern aircraft featuring 76 spacious seats, all either window or aisle, with no middle seats.

Southwest Airlines

Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS) has announced that Southwest Airlines will begin service on April 7, 2026. The airline will launch with new nonstop routes to San Diego, Burbank, Las Vegas, and Denver, further expanding travel options for Sonoma County bound passengers. San Diego and Las Vegas flights will operate daily, including two San Diego roundtrips on peak days, while service to Denver and Burbank will be available on high-demand travel days. With this addition, travelers will gain convenient connections to Southwest's national network, including popular eastbound destinations, through North America's fourth-largest airline.

For the Good of the Cause

Dog Day Out

Sonoma County Animal Services Dog Day Out program offers a unique opportunity for both volunteers and shelter dogs. Designed to give dogs a break from the kennel environment, the program pairs volunteers with medium to large dogs for day-long adventures, allowing them to explore the outdoors, local parks, or even dog-friendly Sonoma County wineries and tasting rooms. Volunteers are provided with all the essentials, leash, harness, water, toys, and an “Adopt Me” vest, so they can focus on giving the dogs attention, exercise, and socialization. Beyond the joy of spending time with a four-legged friend, these outings provide shelter staff with valuable insights into each dog's personality, helping improve adoption matches. Dog Day Out not only enriches the lives of shelter dogs but also offers volunteers a meaningful way to enjoy the beauty of Sonoma County while making a tangible difference in a dog's life.

Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park and Open Space Preserve

West Sonoma County just got greener. 1,517 acres of redwood forest and salmon streams are now protected, quadrupling Monte Rio Redwoods Regional Park and Open Space Preserve. The addition closes a major gap between existing parks and preserves, connecting a vast expanse of contiguous wildlife corridors. This means a more connected habitat for wildlife and a healthier future for Sonoma County's remarkable landscape.

Northern California Wine Country Inns Are Open For Business

SACRAMENTO, CA [October 27, 2017] -- Despite the television images of fires raging across swaths of California’s wine country and the reports of catastrophic damage, the vast majority of the region’s wine and tourism industry escaped unscathed. But they’re suffering now that the smoke has cleared.

“Many boutique hotels and bed and breakfast inns in the region are receiving cancellations because travelers don’t realize that they are open for business,” said Jenn Iliff, Program Manager for the California Association of Boutique and Breakfast Inns (CABBI).

Of the 46 CABBI-member inns in Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties, none were damaged by the fires and all but one are open for business.  The one inn that remains closed—Kenwood Inn & Spa—expects to re-open shortly. 

The Beazley House Bed & Breakfast Inn in Napa has been hosting guests and PG&E workers without interruption since fires began just over two weeks ago.  Owner Jim Beazley said the City of Napa was never evacuated; nor did anyone in the city lose phones, power or services. 

Beazley and his wife Carol toured Napa Valley from Napa to Calistoga this week along the two the major wine tasting routes: Highway 29 and Silverado Trail.  Though some fire damage is visible along Silverado Trail, Beazley said that none of the most famous wineries along Highway 29 were damaged. “Of the 450-plus wineries in Napa Valley, only seven wineries were severely damaged or lost,” said Beazley. “Over 99% of Napa’s wineries remain open.”

It’s a similar story in Sonoma County, where Farmhouse Inn owner Joe Bartolomei said that of the hundreds of wineries in the region, only a handful were damaged or destroyed. 

Bartolomei has been fielding reservation calls from guests who wanted to cancel because they thought the inn had burned down or wanted to postpone because they were uncomfortable visiting while the region is recovering.  Bartolomei tells them, “The best thing you can do right now is come and support the tourism businesses.”

CABBI has set up quick links on its website for visitors to search for inns in Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.

• Napa County: www.cabbi.com/region/Napa-Valley
• Sonoma County: www.cabbi.com/region/Sonoma
• Mendocino County: www.cabbi.com/region/Mendocino

For more information about CABBI and its member inns, visit www.cabbi.com.

California Wine Country Has Not Burned Down And Is Welcoming Visitors #Wine

Meggan Driscoll Napa Valley © Bob Ecker

On the night of Sunday, October 8, Northern California Wine Country was hit with a dangerous “perfect storm” of atmospheric conditions combining: warm temperatures, extremely low humidity, bone-dry fields and forests, and very strong winds. Beginning at 9:52 pm, 17 wildfires sprung up throughout the wine country counties of Napa, Sonoma, Lake, and Mendocino counties. These were considered wildland urban interface fires, meaning forest fires within close proximity to human habitation and businesses. And these fires were big and fast-moving, among the worst in California’s history. The result was a tragic toll on some communities, notably in Santa Rosa in Sonoma County. Some people lost their lives, many were evacuated, and some people are still displaced.

Yet it could have been much worse. Firefighters mobilized quickly, and crews from around California and beyond poured in to battle the Atlas, Nuns, Tubbs, and Redwood Valley fires among others. As heavy smoke shrouded much of Wine Country, teams of first responders made headway against the blazes and of this writing, almost all of these fires have been extinguished. Volunteers helped out, and nearby unaffected communities rallied to assist. Happily, the smoke has long since blown away as Wine Country gets back to business. Most wineries, restaurants, hotels, and related businesses are back open and undamaged. Another fortunate development was that when the fires hit, about 90% of the grapes in Wine Country had already been harvested. And it turned out that the healthy vineyards proved to be a very effective firebreak.

Solano County © Bob Ecker

Dr. Anita Oberholster is Cooperative Extension Specialist in Enology, University of California, Davis. This university offers America’s premier Enology and Viticulture program. She said, “Although any loss is heartbreaking, we currently have confirmed reports of 15 wineries that were totally destroyed or severely damaged by the fires. This is a very small percentage, and we urge potential visitors to continue their planned visits and support the grape and wine industry in Northern California.” Approximately 1,200 of California’s 4,600 wineries are situated in Lake, Mendocino, Napa, and Sonoma counties.

“Aside from heavy smoke the first few days, there was no damage to us or our employees’ property in the Napa area. We had many cancellations of visits these first two weeks,” said Delia Viader, President of Viader Vineyards & Winery.

Shelley Post is the President of Four Sisters Inns, a group of premier inns primarily located in Northern California. Two of their properties remain closed, but the others are fully open for business. “We had an interesting mix of people staying at our properties including some good regular guests, people displaced by the fires, and first responders from all over,” said Post. “Our hearts reach out to all of those people affected.”

Like some other hotel properties, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn was able to help to feed displaced locals and first responders. They also opened their locker rooms to anyone who needed hot showers. The luxury hotel sustained no damage and has fully reopened to the public.

View from my house © Bob Ecker

“There’s no physical damage to our properties, but our psyche has been disrupted! We’ve experienced tremendous anxiety, sadness, and stress caused by the loss of lives, the length and uncertainty of the wildfires, and their destruction, said Amelia Ceja, President and Founder of Ceja Vineyards. “We extend our deepest appreciation to the brave firefighters, first responders, and community members for their tireless efforts.”

Violet Grgich, Vine President, Grgich Hills Estate, said: “Most important, all of our employees and their families are safe. Sadly, we had three employees lose their homes due to the fires, but we did not lose any buildings or vineyards.”

Smoke Taint?

Another potential post fire issue is that of “smoke taint” that may occur in the 2017 grape vintage. There is no absolute consensus, but most suggest that this will not be a factor considering that most grapes were already harvested, and smoke did not last for an extended period of time. In fact, 2017 was looking like an outstanding year for the grapes.

Ehlers Estate in the Northern Napa Valley town of St. Helena was untouched by the fires. “The fragrance of the fermenting grapes is now far stronger than the smell of smoke,” said Winemaker Kevin Morrisey. “We’ll get through this, as we always do. We’re farmers after all.”

Remi Cohen, Vice President and GM of Cliff Lede Family Wines in Yountville, said: “Thankfully, most wineries in Napa and Sonoma were nearing the completion of harvest by the time the wildfires started. At Cliff Lede Vineyards, only 3% of our fruit remained on the vines when the fires began.” The Owner, Cliff Lede, is originally from Edmonton.

Dr. Oberholster from UC Davis stated: “At low levels, smoke adds complexity to the wine. It is only at very high levels that it will be seen as a fault or taint and can decrease the quality of the wine. We do not expect a significant economic impact on Northern California’s wine regions due to the fact that only a small percentage of wines may be affected by the fires and smoke.”

David Duncan, President & CEO, of Silver Oak Winery, said: “Other than the tasting rooms being closed for a week, we had little direct impact from the fires. All of our fruit was picked, and the wines in the winery will be totally unaffected.”

Megghen Driscol, Communications Director, Terlato Wine Group, told me: “The vast majority of our fruit was picked prior to the fire; in fact, we were night harvesting Chimney Rock’s estate fruit the night the fire broke out! A few of our smaller vineyard blocks still had fruit on the vine after the fire, and because of road closures, we had to halt harvesting for a few days. Once we were allowed back in, we elected to continue picking. We are taking a very methodical approach to these lots and are not rushing to judgement.”

Violet Grgich said: “We’ve sent samples of the fermenting wines to ETS lab in St. Helena, and we have no discernable sign of smoke taint. We’ll keep a close eye on the wines, of course. Overall, we think this will be a very good vintage!”

Fire Wooden Valley © Bob Ecker

Helping:

Many people across the world have asked how they can help. Most in Wine Country simply say: “Come back – California Wine Country is alive and well. Patronize the restaurants, inns, and wineries. Purchase California wines at home.” This will undoubtedly help local families and businesses to slowly recover. Additionally, many wineries in Napa Valley are donating tasting room fees as well as hosting fundraisers for fire relief. For those who wish to donate recovery and relief efforts, the Napa Valley Vintners recommends the Napa Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund.

“Visiting will help Sonoma County’s hospitality community get back to work,” said Tim Zahner, interim CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. “Fans of the area are urged to continue to support Sonoma County wineries, breweries, cheese makers, farmers, and local artisans. Purchases of items that were bottled in, made in, grown in, brewed in, or otherwise came from Sonoma County help local families recover economically.”

“We encourage our neighbors and guests from across the country to visit us to enjoy our delicious wines and legendary hospitality and please also support our wine country community in the Napa and Sonoma Counties,” said Amelia Ceja.

Most hotels and Inns are fully open, but visitors should check in with Airbnb before flying out. Restaurants and wineries are virtually all open, and in fact, now less crowded than usual. The small Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport has also reopened.

Soda Rock Winery’s Sales Director Isabelle Adams said: “Our doors are open, and we look forward to welcoming our customers once again. My new mantra: rebuilding Sonoma one case at a time.”