Art ~ Wine ~ Education at 140 Northern Sonoma County Wineries

On January 14 and 15, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., more than 140 wineries in Dry Creek, the Russian River and Alexander Valley in Northern Sonoma County will roll out the red carpet to welcome guests to one of the most beautiful wine growing regions on the planet. It’s a true celebration of wine, education and the arts. Now in its 20th year, this popular event has become a tradition for so many people who want to celebrate the beginning of  the new year with fine wine and food.

While the vineyards throughout Sonoma County might be dormant all winter, the Wine Road shakes the cold weather blues with this annual “Winter Wineland” event and invites guests to create their own journey through Wine Country, discovering new wines, speaking with special artists in residence, viewing art installations and learning about vineyard practices throughout the area.

The event showcases this region’s reputation for inspiring creativity by highlighting the many artists that call this region home. It also honors the art and history of winemaking, giving guests behind-the-scenes access to the people, practices and wines that make Wine Road one of the most exciting destinations in California.

For those who are long-time fans of this portion of Northern California, or are lucky first-time visitors, this is a unique opportunity to experience a very special time of the year in wine county. The pace is unhurried, the holidays are past and the entire valley is relaxed but, also enthusiastic about what the 2012 growing season and harvest might bring. It is a time of anticipation, a time to sample wines – many of them bottlings or labels that are new to you – and to share them with friends, even friends you have not met before. One thing you will hear over and over again from those who have been to this magical weekend is that they have remained friends with people they had met in a tasting room, who share a common appreciation for fine wine, the wine country lifestyle and the gracious good humor of a tasting rooms hospitality. What better gift could that be?

Tickets include tastings and viewings at all participating wineries, including some wineries that are not usually open to the public. Prices range from $35 to $55 (plus sales tax) and advance ticket sales end January 9. If you are a designated driver you can still enjoy all of the fun but no wine and your ticket is only $5. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.wineroad.com, or contact Beth Costa at 1-800-723-6336. Free maps are available. You can also visit the Wine Road on Twitter and Facebook.