Sonoma County, nestled in the heart of Northern California, is renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wines. While many wineries cater primarily to adults, there are hidden gems that welcome families with open arms. As a local who has experienced wine tasting with children in tow, I’ve curated a list of my fave family-friendly wineries in Sonoma County that offer awesome experiences for both parents and kids.

Top Family-Friendly Wineries in Sonoma County

1. DeLoach Vineyards (Santa Rosa)

DeLoach Vineyards is a family-owned winery passionate about sharing their love of wine. They offer tastings, tours, and events, along with a picnic area for families to relax. Children can participate in educational programs about the winemaking process and the vineyard’s history.

2. Paradise Ridge Winery (Santa Rosa)

Paradise Ridge offers a unique experience with stunning countryside views. Families can enjoy tastings, tours, and events, as well as a picnic area and sculpture grove. Children are welcome to join educational programs, and there’s a special kids’ menu available.

3. Landmark Vineyards (Kenwood)

Landmark Vineyards provides a family-friendly environment at their Kenwood estate. Known for their delicious Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, they offer free horse-drawn carriage tours every Saturday from May through October. Parents can relax with a picnic and wine tasting while kids play on the lawn.

4. Ledson Winery & Vineyards (Kenwood)

Ledson Winery is famed for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Families can explore the grounds, enjoy tastings and tours, and utilize the picnic area. There’s also a play area for children to have fun while adults savor the wines.

5. Chateau St. Jean (Kenwood)

Chateau St. Jean boasts beautiful grounds and scenic views, making it ideal for a family day out. They offer tastings, tours, and events, along with a picnic area and a play area for children.

6. Benziger Family Winery (Glen Ellen)

Benziger Family Winery is a true family operation, known for its organic and biodynamic wines. Their tractor-pulled tram tour is a hit with both kids and adults, offering insights into sustainable winemaking practices. The tour includes visits to wine caves and encounters with farm animals. A playground is also available on-site.

7. Jacuzzi Family Vineyards (Sonoma)

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards offers a unique and interactive experience. Families can tour the vineyard, taste wines, and learn about the winemaking process. A picnic area is available for meals and games.

8. Cline Family Cellars (Sonoma)

Cline Family Cellars, a family-run winery since 1982, provides various tasting experiences across their property, including outdoor cabanas and a pond area. Families can enjoy picnics, guided tours, and visits to the California Missions Museum. The winery is home to turtles, birds, fish, and donkeys named Fancy and Pudding.

9. Larson Family Winery (Sonoma)

Larson Family Winery, with over 120 years of farming history, has transformed their farmhouse into a family- and pet-friendly wine destination. Families can enjoy picnics, wine tasting, bocce, and kid-friendly games on the expansive lawn or shaded patio.

10. Buena Vista Winery (Sonoma)

Established in 1857, Buena Vista Winery is California’s oldest commercial winery. They offer wine tastings for adults and interactive experiences for kids, including guided tours by period actors, visits to the Historic Wine Tool Museum, a hedge maze, and a giant crocodile sculpture.

11. Preston Farm & Winery (Healdsburg)

Preston Farm & Winery combines excellent wines with a rustic farm experience. Families can enjoy gardens, bocce, sheep, a chicken coop, and friendly cats. Kids might even get the chance to bottle-feed a lamb. A picnic area and farm shop with fresh produce are also available.

12. Francis Ford Coppola Winery (Geyserville)
Francis Ford Coppola Winery offers a resort-like experience with a pool, bocce, board games, and a teepee with a kid’s library. Parents can enjoy wine and food delivered poolside, while kids play. The on-site museum features props from Coppola films like The Godfather and Dracula. Pool access requires reservations.

Tips for a Successful Family Wine Tasting Day

• Plan Ahead: Research winery policies on children and make reservations if necessary.

• Stay Local: If you’re planning a visit from out of town, choose a vacation rental nearby so you can run home for breaks as needed.

• Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, games, and activities to keep children entertained.

• Time It Right: Visit wineries earlier in the day when kids are well-rested.

• Engage Kids: Choose wineries with kid-friendly amenities like play areas or farm animals.

• Safety First: Always supervise children, especially near water features or during tours.

Sonoma County offers a plethora of family-friendly wineries where parents can indulge in exquisite wines while children engage in fun and educational activities. By selecting the right wineries and planning accordingly, families can create memorable experiences in California’s wine country.