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Glen Ellen Star is a bit north but should be in your dinner wheelhouse.

As noted above you’re probably not looking for Mexican food, but if you want an easy lunch, El Molino Central is a classic.

Wine wise, I find Durrell to be quite good and the property is lovely. Same for Sangiacomo, though it’s more valley floor in perspective.

  • Hook 'Em 1
Posted
On 9/2/2025 at 11:54 AM, txduck87 said:

Headed to Sonoma (the town) for my 60th next week.  Looking for a few specific recs.   Have looked in the thread and it's quite frankly overwhelming from what to pick to do.  Never been and we are not huge knowledgeable wine people (like to drink it but certainly not experts ) but do want to try some different things and just experience the whole vibe there. Staying at the Fairmont Mission Inn and Spa while there so hopefully that is a good spot??  We aren't interested in $90 wine tastings and would be happy if there are some good ones to try right in town. My only restaurant reservation so far is at the Girl and Fig.

Here I'd like some guidance on.

1) Best pick for a nice restaurant for my 60th. Not French Laundry type prices but something nice ($250-$400 all in for 2 type place).  Willing to drive on this one a bit but the closer to Sonoma, the better. 

2) 2-3 Reasonably priced winery tastings.   Willing to drive a little but would be great if there was a can't miss right in Sonoma. 

3) Are the guided tours worth it for one day to see several wineries?  Not usually a fan of group travel but don't want to be driving around if I'm visiting 2-3 spots in a day.

4) 1/2 day hiking spot.  4-8 miler ---moderate type thing.

Appreciate any help/thoughts.

 

 

Wine tastings aren't what they used to be in terms of price.  None are really cheap anymore.  On the bright side, most will knock off a tasting or two when wine is purchased.  A recommendation on wine tastings depends on what type of wine you prefer (if you know).  Some ideas:

Pinot Noir - Walt Winery, just off the square in Sonoma.  Our favorite Pinots in the area.  We were white wine only drinkers when we first arrived in Sonoma and the Pinot Noir here was our "gateway drug" into reds.

Zinfandel - Wellington Cellars, north of town between Santa Rosa and Sonoma.  They have a number of Zins including from vines planted in 1882, 1912 and 1924.

Cab and Red Blend - Three Fat Guys Wine, here's a curve ball for you.  Just south of town, founded by three former Packers linemen, hence the name.  They make a good red blend that's not too expensive (The Linemen) and a Cab or two that's good (though kind of expensive).

I might have some other suggestions depending on what you like (white, red, bubbly, ports, etc.).

If you want to combine a hike with wine tasting, you can check out Bartolomew Estate Winery.  Beautiful spots to drink wine outside and the expansive property includes miles of hiking trails that lead up into the hills that surround the property.  Plenty of Redwoods up there.

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