My Favorite Wineries

In Russian River Valley/ Dry Creek...

Armida

I love how young, hip and funky this winery is.  But they don't rest on their edge: I love almost every wine that I try there.  In fact, you can't even really see their edge until you walk in: they have a pretty building, lovely view, and nice picnic area around a pond and they look like many other wineries in the area.  But walk inside and you may hear a punk version of the Fraggle Rock theme song playing.  you'll definitely see many skull and crossbones: their signature Zinfandel "Poizin" demands such graphics.

In Carneros...

Artesa

 Ok, I am biased.  But ther first time I walked into this winery, I marveled about how I had never seen anything like it before in my entire life.  Still haven't.  Between the yummy wines, amazing view, edgy art, and delightful company, I highly reccomend Artesa to anyone looking for a beautiful wine country experience.   

and Ceja

You say Ceja and anyone who has been there says "Oh, Amelia!" as if the owner were an old friend.  In fact, Ceja is one of the most welcoming wineries I have ever visited.  It is family run, and I feel like I am walking through their backyard and into their kitchen when I visit.  I'm sure it helps that their doggie lays around, watching people taste all day.   

In Sonoma...

Imagery

I love imagery for many reasons, one of which is that I have not tasted a single wine there that I did not like.  I love the unique labels on the bottles (each bottle has a special artpiece designed especially for it).  I love the ethereal art on display, I love the friendly people behind the bar, and I love the gardens outside.  I would join their wine club someday.