Sonoma’s Wine Road is trading sun hats for beanies and breaking out the cozy vibes. Winter WINEland is back, and it’s basically the perfect excuse to lean into sweater weather and swirl something delicious while the vineyards nap. If you crave the slower tempo of winter tasting—less buzz, more breathing—this one’s your jam.
“Step into the magic of Winter Wineland, where the Wine Road transforms into a true wonderland.”
—Wine Industry Advisor
On the calendar: January 17 @ 11:00 am – January 18 @ 4:00 pm PST. Two days, plenty of tasting rooms, and a whole lot of hospitality along a stretch of Sonoma that knows how to host. Think crisp air, vineyard views, and the kind of conversations you only get when everyone’s not racing to the next pour.
Winter tasting hits differently. Cooler temps make reds feel plush and layered, while whites show their nerve and spine—like your friend who quotes poetry but also surfs Maverick’s. So plan your route with intention. Start with a lighter warm-up: a bright Chardonnay or a bubbly aperitif to reset the palate. Then lean into heartier pours—Zinfandel, Syrah, Cab—paired with those wintery snacks tasting rooms love to roll out. If there’s braised anything or mushrooms involved, you’re on the right track.
Here’s how to make the most of Winter WINEland without turning it into a relay race:
- Map a manageable loop. Pick a few tasting rooms close together so you can linger and chat. The best moments happen between pours.
- Go early. That 11:00 am start is your secret weapon. Beat the afternoon rush; snag a seat by the window and settle into the vineyard view.
- Layer up. Jackets, scarves, and a portable umbrella never go out of style in January. Cozy is the vibe—lean in.
- Hydrate like a pro. A refillable water bottle is the unsung hero of a great tasting day.
- Snacks save palates. A little protein between stops keeps tasting notes sharp and decisions smarter.
- Designate your driver or use rideshare. Great wine deserves great choices.
Winter WINEland is also a reset button for your palate and your calendar. Post-holiday schedules finally loosen up, the vineyards are all skeletal beauty, and tasting rooms feel like living rooms. It’s less about checking boxes and more about finding something that speaks to you—be it an under-the-radar blend or a vintage that’ll do cartwheels next to your Sunday roast.
“It’s not just wine tasting; it’s an unforgettable experience—rich with connection, beauty, and that irresistible winter glow.”
—Wine Industry Advisor
If you’re the collector type, bring a short list: a crowd-pleasing red for dinner parties, a bright white for seafood night, and one wildcard bottle you haven’t tried. If you’re the experience-first type, ask about vineyard practices, barrel choices, or their favorite food pairing for winter. Winemakers love a curious mind—especially when you’re genuinely listening and not just nodding while scanning the room for the next pour.
Pro pairings to test-drive along the Wine Road this time of year:
- Pinot Noir + roasted mushrooms or thyme-y chicken—earth meets silk.
- Zinfandel + short ribs or chili—fruit and spice play anchor.
- Syrah + lamb or black pepper steak—savory, smoky, and utterly winter.
- Chardonnay + buttery squash or Dungeness crab—texture meets briny sweetness.
And hey, pace yourself. Winter WINEland is a marathon, not a sprint. Take notes, snap a few photos, and ask about shipping if you fall for something—you’ll thank yourself next time you’re planning a dinner and remember the bottle that transported you back to January along the Wine Road.
Bottom line: If your ideal weekend includes great wine, time to breathe, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit, Winter WINEland has your name on it. Sonoma knows how to do winter—quiet vines, generous pours, and a low-key glow that sticks with you long after the last taste.
“Make memories. Share laughter. Discover your next favorite vintage.”
—Wine Industry Advisor
See you out there. I’ll be the one in a cozy flannel, sipping something peppery and pretending my tasting notebook isn’t just doodles and pairing ideas.
Source: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/event/winter-wineland/
