Forget Napa. These days we’re having a gay old time in Sonoma County’s Guerneville. A powwow with Michael Volpatt of Big Bottom Market results in a boozy, adventurous, and tasty itinerary (but mostly boozy).
Before sipping, detour through Sebastopol and nose around the smattering of antiques shops. We’re proud patrons of FFT Antiques and Collectibles, a 3,200-square-foot vintage emporium that donates proceeds to Food for Thought, a Sonoma County AIDS food bank.
Stop off for lunch at Forchetta/Bastoni and sample its Vietnamese and Italian dishes.
Continue on to the 116 corridor wineries. Start at the funky Red Car (we recommend the pinot noir and syrah) then move on to Graton Ridge Cellars. Wind down at Iron Horse, where you can admire both the vintage sparkling varieties and vineyard views.
Make dinner plans at Michelin-starred Applewood Inn or grab a thin-crust pie at Main Street Station. Does wine give you a big head? Book a reservation beforehand at the luxurious Boon Hotel + Spa.
If you find rustic residences more restful, go with Fern Grove Cottages.
Start with breakfast at Big Bottom Market (we like the Seabiscuit with smoked salmon, creme fraiche, pickled onions, and capers) and stockpile gourmet goods for a picnic lunch.
Hit up King’s Sport & Tackle to rent kayaks and inflatables for an afternoon at nearby Johnson’s Beach.
Call ahead for tapas and vino pairings at Marimar Estate. Swing by nearby Lynmar Estate and Taft Street wineries or venture down Westside Road to Thomas George Estates (note the wine cave), VML, and Lambert Bridge in Dry Creek Valley.
Soak it all up with dinner at River’s End, where cliff views highlight Instagram-worthy sunsets.
Greet the a.m. in classic diner style at Pat’s before hiking in the Armstrong Redwoods. (The brave-of-heart trek 90 minutes up East Ridge down to Pool Ridge.)
Take the natural shortcut with an organic facial at June Bug Skin Care.
On your way out, make a final stop on River Road at Korbel’s tasting room and gourmet deli.
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