Sonoma

Sonoma Half-Day

Sonoma;

Start your visit with a trip to Viansa 25200 Arnold Dr., Sonoma; 800-995-4740; http://www.viansa.com Upon entering the estate's Tuscan-style villa, you'll feel like you've been transported to Italy. Sample an assortment of fine wines, gourmet mustards, olive oils, breads, and desserts and take in the beautiful surroundings (tastings begin at a very wallet-friendly $5). From there, make your way to Gloria Ferrer 23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com to indulge in a few fine sips of bubbly, and then pop into Schug 602 Bonneau Rd., Sonoma; 800-966-9365; http://www.schugwinery.com, right next door, to try a few elegant and complex Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. If you have time, continue up to Gundlach Bundschu 2000 Denmark St., Sonoma; 707-938-5277; http://www.gunbun.com)a family-run winery that specializes in bright German varietal wines that are sure to perk up your taste buds after several hours of eating and drinking (reservations are required).

Sonoma Full-Day

Sonoma;

Toast the day ahead with a glass of bubbly at Gloria Ferrer (23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com). Then pop into Schug (602 Bonneau Rd., Sonoma; 800-966-9365; http://www.schugwinery.com right next door, to sample some elegant and complex Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. If you want to really pack a lot into your schedule, check out Gundlach Bundschu (2000 Denmark St., Sonoma; 707-938-5277; http://www.gunbun.com) a family-run winery that specializes in German varietal wines. If you want to take your sweet time, then skip Gundlach and head in a more leisurely way to Imagery (14335 Sonoma Hwy., Glen Ellen; 877-550-4278; http://www.imagerywinery.com for an unconventional surprise. You'll discover a palette of unusual varietals, surprising blends and innovative farming techniques. Pay attention to their labels, which are one-of-a-kind world-class works of art. This experience is a Jane must. After lingering a while, get back to traditional wine-roots at Chateau St. Jean (8555 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood; 707-833-4134; http://www.chateaustjean.com where you'll find a variety of crisp whites awaiting you. End the day at Ledson (7335 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood; 707-5373810; http://www.ledsonwinery.com where you can enjoy sampling award-winning Petite Sirahs and Zinfandels. The medieval-style grounds are equally impressive, and there are lots of great places to sit and rest your wined-out toes.

Sonoma Bubbly

Begin with a visit to Gloria Ferrer (23555 Carneros Hwy., Sonoma; 707-996-7256; http://www.gloriaferrer.com to indulge in a few fine sips of bubbly on the lovely terrace overlooking the vineyards. After whetting your palate there, head over to J Winery's Bubble Room (11447 Old Redwood Hwy., Healdsburg; 888-594-6326; http://www.jwine.com to indulge in a full tasting flight featuring sparkling wines only available here, complete with a carefully selected tasting menu designed to enhance the wines. It's a bit of an extravagance at $60, but we're confident you'll agree that it's money well spent. Be sure to reserve ahead. Weekends only.