This past March, bud break in Sonoma’s famed vineyards marked the commencement of the region’s 200th harvest and a chance to celebrate all the factors and influences that turn the valley’s beautiful grape clusters into a bottled icon of excellence to be enjoyed for years to come.

Native Americans were the first viticulturists in Sonoma Valley. But, two hundred years ago, Father José Altimira, founder of the San Francisco Mission San Francisco Solano (Sonoma Mission), and Indigenous workers planted the first official vineyard with as many as 2,000 “Old World Mission” varietal grapevines to the North and East of the Mission in Sonoma Valley, California. Those vines yielded approximately 1,000 gallons of wine. At that time, the Mission grapes were primarily used as sacramental and table wine for the missionaries. The land where these original formal grape vines were planted is now part of Agoston Haraszthy’s Buena Vista Winery, and Gundlach Bundschu Winery. 

200th Harvest
Sonoma Valley’s 200th Harvest will celebrate the bicentennial of this historical event with the de facto governing body for winemaking in the region, the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Association (SVVGA), kicking off the second season of a three-year celebration.
This year, The Year of the Vintner honors the hard work of talented winemakers to guide each grape from vineyard to glass. From nurturing the vines to crafting the wine, their work is at the heart of every bottle. 

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“Sonoma Valley is the birthplace of the California wine industry. The 200th Harvest gives us the opportunity to showcase the people who carry on that two-century tradition today and continue to produce award-winning vintages that showcase their unique perspective while highlighting the exceptional quality and variety of grapes and wine that are produced in this distinctive region.” 
Robyn Sebastiani, Executive Director
Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance

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Starting in June with the Sonoma Spritz Soiree and continuing throughout the remainder of the summer, the SVVGA will host monthly celebrations throughout Sonoma Valley leading up to the signature 200th Harvest celebration in late August. Each and every event will mark the milestone of the first Sonoma Valley vintage.

200th Harvest themes and events

July

Scavenger Hunt & Friday Night Flights - wineries will stay open late on Friday nights plus corkage specials at featured restaurants.  Check the schedule each month and plan your night accordingly.

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August 
• Your Sonoma video submissions depict “Your Sonoma Valley” - Fans of Sonoma Valley wine will be asked to submit 1-minute videos to showcase what they love about Sonoma Valley. Videos will be showcased on social media and throughout the month and harvest season, (details coming soon).
• 200th Harvest Mission Bell Ringing - date TBD based on actual harvest initiation
• 200th Harvest Flash Mob on the Plaza BYOB - August 27, 6pm - Bring Your Own Bubbles photo op

September
• 200th Harvest tasting flights at participating wineries, bars and restaurants
• 128th Vintage Festival Sept 25-27 - VIP packages and General admission tickets are on sale now.

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The three-year celebration

2024: The Year of the Farmer – 2024’s celebration paid tribute to the backbone of Sonoma Valley: the dedicated farmers who cultivate our fertile lands and preserve our agricultural traditions. It celebrated the vibrant tapestry of farming culture that has shaped the region for generations.

2025: The Year of the Vintner – 2025’s celebration will raise a glass to the artisans behind Sonoma Valley’s world-renowned wines. From vine to bottle, it will honor the craftsmanship, passion, and innovation of the vintners, whose dedication continues to define the region’s vinicultural excellence.

2026: The Year of Community – 2026’s celebration will honor the heart and soul of Sonoma Valley: its people. From artisans and entrepreneurs to residents and visitors alike, the celebration will spotlight the diverse voices, stories, and experiences that embody the vibrant spirit of the Sonoma Valley community.

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If you missed June’s Sonoma Spritz Soirée,  SVVGA is sharing the official recipe so it can be enjoyed anywhere this summer. 
 
Ingredients
• 1 teaspoon Fig Preserves or Caramelized Fig Syrup by Liber & Co.
• ¾ ounce fresh lemon Juice
• ¾ ounce simple syrup
• 3 ounces Sonoma Valley Rosé
• 2 ounces soda water
 
Instructions
Shake fig preserve (or syrup), lemon juice, and simple syrup together. Strain into a glass over ice. Then top with your favorite Sonoma Valley Rosé and soda water. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and enjoy!