J Winery

Russian River Area

J crafts crisp sparkling wines, among Sonoma's best, but it's pricey. Make an appointment and splurge on one of the seated food-and-wine-pairing experiences. The decadent 'bubble room' tasting includes five wines paired with five locally sourced dishes prepared by chef Carl Shelton ($125 per person). The alfresco 'terrace' tasting (April to November) is also a winner, with four wines paired with four small appetizers ($55). Bottles cost $24 to $75.

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

  • ST. HELENA, CA - SEPTEMBER 25: Rows of oak wine barrels sit on racks at Tres Sabores Winery September 25, 2009 in St. Helena, California. Tres Sabores, a certified organic winery, has strated to harvest their grapes for the 2009 vintage as wineries throughout the Napa and Sonoma Valleys begin to harvest and crush grapes. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

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Nearby Russian River Area attractions

1. De La Montanya

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This tiny winery, tucked amid vineyards, is known for 17 small-batch varieties made with estate-grown fruit. Viognier, Primitivo, Pinot and Cabernet are…

2. Macrostie

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For its creamy and crisp chardonnays and earthy pinots, along with top-notch service and an elegant tasting room, Macrostie is the talk of Wine Country…

3. Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach

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You can swim at this in-town beach between July and early September – lifeguards are on duty summer weekends. The fastidious can confirm current water…

4. Landmark Vineyards at Hop Kiln Estate

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This photogenic historic landmark has a busy tasting room inside a former hop kiln; we especially like the Flocchini Chardonnay. You can build your own…

5. Healdsburg Museum

2.86 MILES

Rotating exhibits include compelling installations on northern Sonoma County history, with an emphasis on Healdsburg. Pick up the walking-tour pamphlet.

7. Saturday Market

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Healdsburg's downtown farmers market comes to life every weekend in the summer, bringing in farmers from across the county, plenty of vendors and small…