Healdsburg, California is a small town that has become famous among wine lovers for the high-quality wines produced in the area. Located in the northern part of Sonoma County, Healdsburg is home to more than 35 wineries, each with its own unique combination of wines, tasting rooms, and views. In this article, we\’ll take a closer look at some of the best wineries in Healdsburg.

One of the most well-known wineries in Healdsburg is Jordan Vineyard & Winery, located just outside town. Founded in 1972, Jordan produces classic Bordeaux-style wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Visitors to the winery can take a tour of the vineyards and enjoy a tasting of the winery\’s current releases.

The Rodney Strong Vineyards, also located in Healdsburg, is another excellent winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over 50 years. With a focus on sustainability, Rodney Strong\’s wines are made from grapes grown in the winery\’s own vineyards, using eco-friendly farming practices. Tastings at Rodney Strong are held in the winery\’s stylish, modern tasting room, which boasts expansive views of the surrounding vineyards.

For those looking for a smaller, more intimate tasting experience, the Scherrer Winery is an excellent choice. This family-owned winery produces small batches of high-quality wines, including Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Visitors to the Scherrer tasting room can taste wines directly from the barrel, and hear the winemaker\’s philosophy on winemaking.

Fans of white wines will want to check out the Longboard Vineyards, which specializes in Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Named after owner Oded Shakked\’s passion for surfing, Longboard\’s tasting room features beach-themed decor and a laid-back vibe. Visitors can enjoy a tasting while listening to surf music and taking in the view from the winery\’s outdoor patio.

The HANNA Winery & Vineyards is another unique Healdsburg winery that offers visitors a breathtaking setting for wine tasting. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Russian River, the winery\’s tasting room offers a panoramic view of Sonoma County. HANNA produces a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, and is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Another excellent winery in the Healdsburg area is the Dutcher Crossing Winery. Located in the Dry Creek Valley, Dutcher Crossing is known for its small-batch, handmade wines. The winery\’s tasting room is located in an old hop kiln building, and visitors can taste the wines while enjoying a picnic on the winery\’s lawn.

Wine Tasting Tips

If you\’re planning a visit to Healdsburg\’s wineries, here are some tips to help you make the most of your wine tasting experience:

1. Start with lighter wines: Begin your tasting with lighter wines, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, and work your way up to heavier wines, like Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. Take notes: Bring a notebook and pen to write down the names of the wines you like, as well as the wineries that produced them.

3. Pace yourself: Don\’t rush through your tastings. Take your time to savor each wine and appreciate its unique qualities.

4. Don\’t forget water and snacks: Drinking water and eating small snacks between tastings can help refresh your palate and keep you from getting too drunk.

5. Be respectful: Remember that wine tasting is a social experience. Be courteous to other guests and to the winery staff.

Conclusion

Healdsburg, California is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. With its stunning scenery, friendly wineries, and fantastic wines, it\’s easy to see why Healdsburg has become a top spot for wine tourism. Whether you prefer red or white, big or small wineries, Healdsburg has something to offer every wine enthusiast. So why not plan a trip to Healdsburg and experience the best wineries that the area has to offer?