It seems like only yesterday that DeLoach Vineyards pruned vines and welcomed the arrival of spring lambs in February. Now, the weather is warming up, and estate vines are awakening and coming out of hibernation. Artichokes from the garden have been harvested and green beans, basil, tomatoes and watermelon have been planted according to the Biodynamic® calendar.  

A pioneering producer of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Zinfandel in Sonoma’s Russian River Valley since 1975, DeLoach seeks to produce exceptional wines that spotlight the singular personality of the Russian River Valley, with its rare and bountiful convergence of the sea, the soil and the stars. Since 2003, DeLoach has grown its small-lot vineyard designate wine program, become a certified organic and Biodynamic estate vineyard, and implemented traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques such as open-top wood fermenters, native yeast fermentations, and hand punch-downs.

Visitors can taste the wines of DeLoach and partake in the abundance of life and activity in the gardens and surrounding vineyards on the estate.  

A Garden Tour offered Saturdays and Sundays (by appointment only) takes guests through the estate and gardens, where they will learn about the history of DeLoach and the philosophy of Biodynamic, organic and sustainable farming and wine growing that the winery has adopted. Visitors get to meet the sheep and chickens, learn what’s in season in the garden and harvest produce, which is then used for the food and wine pairing hosted in the Garden Gazebo.

Still hungry? On Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m., and weather permitting, you can enjoy a pizza from the wood-fired pizza oven using fresh ingredients from the Biodynamic garden.

How about a table for two?  DeLoach hosts picnics year-round, weather permitting. DeLoach will put together a selection of local fare, including salami, cheese, crackers, olives, chocolates, fruits and nuts inside a basket with table cloth, napkins, cutting board, knife, and wine glasses. Pickup your favorite DeLoach wine to complete the package, grab a spot on the terrace, and enjoy the splendor of the day amongst the vines.

For something a little more intimate and hands on, you can set up an appointment for a guided wine and cheese pairing. This seated tasting includes a selection of three local artisan cheeses paired with DeLoach wines. Be sure to reserve a day in advance.

If you’re on the go and passing through, DeLoach is open daily for tastings from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and local cheeses and food items are available for purchase to go.

1791 Olivet Road, Santa Rosa
(707) 526-9111  |  www.deloachvineyards.com