Alderbrook Vineyards & Winery

Mention ‘Day Trips’ for 2-for-1 tasting and 10% off wine purchases.

When you visit this pretty winery in the rural area not far from the town of Healdsburg, you can remember the sincere words of their tasting room manager: “We’re laid back, so come on in, try our wines and feel free to stay a while.”

Since 1981, when the winery was founded, Alderbrook has been offering a variety of wines that now have a legion of faithful followers. The setting is tranquil, with white fences, a 60-acre estate vineyard and  a farmhouse-like tasting room with white bleached-wood walls, wood floors, a high ceiling and a fireplace at one end of the casual, comfortable room.

Though the property is just minutes from Highway 101 (which makes it about an hour from the Golden Gate), it is a world apart. There’s a spacious porch in the front, and a long deck in the back facing a large lawn. If you care to picnic, feel free, enjoying you meal or snack with a glass or a bottle from their collection of wines. They will even loan you glassware as you pair one of their Zinfandels, the Chardonnay, a Pinot Noir or a Syrah with your picnic.

Inside, at the two L-shaped tasting bars, with their polished wood tops, you’ll learn about what it means to have a winery and grapes sourced from two of the most famous regions in all of Sonoma: Dry Creek and the Russian River Valleys. And, to learn this, you will be able to taste the difference and the triumphs in your glass. Can you imagine of a better way to learn?

By Charles Neave

Varietals
Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Carignane, Zinfandel and Zinfandel Port

Dates
While the winery was founded in 1981, it was in 2001 that the famous Terlato Family Vineyards took over the property and led it to the prominence it now enjoys. In fact, some of the wines, such as the Block 9 Syrah and the Chardonnay, have the Terlato name on the label.    

Fun Facts
Complimentary Pedicab service to and from the winery to the Healdsburg Plaza, just call the tasting room to arrange for pickup.
Live music every Sunday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m Dogs are very welcome at Alderbrook. Come in for a button that says, “We ♥ Dogs @ Alderbrook.”  

Other Tastings
There is a self-serve bar where you can sample mustards, oils, vinegars , chocolate and caramel sauces.

Private events
Contact the winery for information on hosting your own event at this scenic winery.