Dry Creek Vineyard

Mention this article and receive a complimentary tasting for 2 and 10% off any wine purchase.

A visit to the Dry Creek Valley would not be complete without a visit to Dry Creek Vineyard, where a pioneering young entrepreneur named Dave Stare helped put the Dry Creek Valley on the world wine map nearly 40 years ago.

When Dave arrived in Dry Creek Valley, the land surrounding him was planted primarily to hops and prunes. But Dave saw the great potential in planting the same grape varietals that made world class wines in the Loire Valley of France, where Dave had traveled extensively and found much inspiration. And so he planted Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, a variety he was told would never grow in the Dry Creek Valley.

Today, Dry Creek Vineyard still produces Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, plus a whole lot more. What’s great about their lineup is that you’ll find both great value wines for everyday drinking, and some amazing treasures to stash away in the cellar or open on weekends, holidays and other special occasions.

In the tasting room you’re likely to find wide selection of wines available to sample, including the kind of old vine and single-vineyard Zinfandels Dry Creek Valley is best known for. For those who love a big red wine, Dry Creek Vineyard makes a pair of phenomenal red blends. The Meritage is a deep, dark and concentrated Bordeaux-style blend that is a steal at $30 retail; and The Mariner ($45), which is even more powerful and particularly ageworthy.    

By Michelle J. Baker

Fun Facts
Did you know that Dry Creek Vineyard was the first winery in California to put the term “meritage” (meaning “merit” of the vineyard combined with “heritage” of the vine) on a wine label?

Dave and his winery, Dry Creek Vineyard, have established many “firsts” on the way to becoming one of Dry Creek Valley’s shining stars.  In fact, Dry Creek Vineyard was the first new winery in the Dry Creek Valley after prohibition.  They were also the first to produce a Fumé Blanc in Sonoma County; the first to use the Dry Creek Valley appellation on a wine label; and the first to champion Zinfandel as a world-class varietal.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch or grab a sandwich to-go on the way, as Dry Creek Vineyard has a sprawling and shady picnic area for guests where you can enjoy a bottle of wine with your lunch and free WiFi, too!

What to Taste
Chenin Blanc, Fume Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, dessert wines and more...