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Escape to Anderson Valley

Travel planner: Find wonderful wine, authentic farm stands, and much more in Northern California's least known wine country

It's hard to leave Esterlina Vineyards, where the dizzying valley views and leisurely, appointment-only tastings seem designed for relaxation.

It's hard to leave Esterlina Vineyards, where the dizzying valley views and leisurely, appointment-only tastings seem designed for relaxation.

Photo by Emily Nathan. © 2009 Sunset

Provided by
Sunset
© 2009 Sunset

by Amy Wolf

Taste Your Way Through Anderson Valley

 

GETTING THERE

From San Francisco, take U.S. 101 north to Cloverdale, then State 128 west toward Mendocino. Or take U.S. 101 toward Ukiah and State 253 to Boonville, which is about 28 miles north of Cloverdale.

WHAT TO DO

Esterlina Vineyards (1200 Holmes Ranch Rd; Philo; 707-895-2920).  At the top of a dirt road.  By appointment only. 

Goldeneye (9200 State 128, Philo; 800-208-0438).  Much more Napa than Anderson Valley (there’s a tasting fee!), but its garden and wine-and-food pairings are lovely. Tasting fee from $5.

Gowan’s Oak Tree (6600 State 128; 707-895-3353). Great fruit and cider.

Hendy Woods State Park (18599 Philo Greenwood Rd, Philo; 707-895-3141).  Day-use fee.

Lazy Creek Vineyards (4741 State 128, Philo; 707-895-3623). By appointment and whenever the gate is open.

Navarro Vineyards (5601 State 128, Navarro; 800-437-9463). Good place to sample Anderson Valley varietals.

Standish Wine Company (5101 State 128, Philo; 707-895-9213).

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