Best way to enjoy Sonoma, CA?

[NDman]

I am aware that there's a few threads about what to do in SF. I am trying to find out specifically on Sonoma, since I live relatively close to SF now.

I am planning a trip to Sonoma, and maybe areas nearby depending on time. We'll be driving there (4-5 people). What is the best way to do such a trip? Just drive through the area and find random vineyards for some tasting? Any recommendation on vineyards or hospitality? Is 1 full-day too much, that we can divert some time to Sausilito, and/or Muir Woods, etc?

Many thanks ahead

[airmail]

Best way to enjoy sonoma is not to drive, so you can really enjoy the wine. Find a tour.

[NDman]

Best way to enjoy sonoma is not to drive, so you can really enjoy the wine. Find a tour.

We have a DD so driving to get there is not a problem. Plus we want to avoid those touristy traps/places. Just wondering if someone know of a smaller and cozier vineyards, that's all

[Pete_Coach]

No offense intended here but as a RFDer of long standing and the fact that you live there now, wouldn't a trip to you local tourist info or even looking at their website be in order? You are asking mainly Canadians (almost seems like mostly Torontonians) for information about your neck of the woods?
http://www.sonomacounty.com/
http://www.sonoma.com/wineries/
http://www.californiawinetours.com/
http://www.sausalito.org/
http://www.nps.gov/muwo/

[frogger]

Go on a weekday if possible to avoid the bigger crowds.

[Orenbvip]

Drunk on wine?

[Pete_Coach]

Drunk on wine?

Anything over 0.08 is legally impaired. Not drunk but big fine and a criminal record.
If you have ever been nailed in the US, you will learn that it is a very expensive process.
Oh, and you think the local or State or Highway Patrol cops don't know that tourists on the road may have been at a winery?

[NDman]

No offense intended here but as a RFDer of long standing and the fact that you live there now, wouldn't a trip to you local tourist info or even looking at their website be in order? You are asking mainly Canadians (almost seems like mostly Torontonians) for information about your neck of the woods?
http://www.sonomacounty.com/
http://www.sonoma.com/wineries/
http://www.californiawinetours.com/
http://www.sausalito.org/
http://www.nps.gov/muwo/

I've visited the first 3 sites prior to asking. I was more interested in finding if anyone knows of a hidden gem, or some less touristy places. This is the same place where a lot of fellow Canadians ask about travelling plans for all over the world. I don't see what's wrong with taking first crack at a forum that I am more familiar with.

Having that said, I do appreciate the list of websites.

[Ohboiya]

hey ... i'd recommend taking a tour with an organized group. i was in sonoma in august with my wife and we had wanted to book with platypus tours but they were fully booked ... so we ended up with california wine tours.

the value was very good. it included a driver who knew the history, the area as well as little tid bits that only a local could provide insight on. plus there was a gourmet lunch at one of the wineries. the tastings included four stops and each place gave at least 5 different wines to sample. needless to say, it was good to have a driver because by the end of the afternoon, we were looped! (haha - i know true wine aficionados are all cringing at this, but it was a fun time had by all).