Sonoma gets a new upscale food and wine destination wineryAs you drive into wine country from San Francisco, the very first winery you'll encounter is the brand new Ram's Gate. Located on route 121/Arnold Dr., just across from Sonoma Race, this new winery sets itself apart from others in several ways. An imposing new structure is located atop a hill, and greets visitors entering Sonoma. Ram's Gate Winery serves as Sonoma's newest winery, and mixes small lots of fine varietals, exceptional food pairing, and a calming atmosphere with awe-inspiring views. The property itself can be found in the old Roche winery spot, and was built by a well-known architect Howard Backen. His intent in creating the winery structure was to imitate the style of the weathered old farmhouses that dot the Carneros countryside. If that doesn't tempt you enough, then consider the interior design by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, the same guy who did the San Francisco Opera. Or that their winemakers, Jeff Gaffner and Jesse Fox, create some of the most structured and balanced small lot production examples I have ever tasted. And did I mention the giant French oak tanks that you'll see nestled in a fancy-looking fermentation room that's just to your right at the entrance? Although these huge tanks are functional, most of the winemaking takes place under the building.After you drive up the twisting driveway and park, you'll be greeted by a friendly greeter and offered a place to do a tasting or tour. Unlike most wineries that I've been to, which have small, cramped tasting room bars, Ram's Gate features numerous places to enjoy yourself. Grab a spot on either side of the Carrera marble bar, grab a seat at one of the many outdoor tables, or lounge in some comfortable chairs by one of the fireplaces. The interior decor is modern and comforting and also jaw-dropping. Guests will enjoy high ceilings, and giant walls that swing open to let the Carneros breeze cool off the building on warm days. Sweeping views greet them as they step outside the building, and an array of fireplaces allow them to cozy up with a loved one as they enjoy the delicious Chardonnay and Syrah. Make sure you try their Sangiacamo Pinot Noir too - it's quite delicious!From their site:"If you're the type of person who loves the idea of sampling fine wines and fresh locally sourced food pairings in beautiful surroundings, then consider this a warm invitation to Ram's Gate Winery. No matter how much you happen to know (or want to know) about wine, we have designed Ram's Gate with you in mind."Speaking of the wine and food - they're both amazing. A full kitchen is situated behind the main tasting bar, and guests have the option to pair their tasting with small bites that complement the wines. They produce some very balanced wines, including their Sonoma County Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. The majority of their production is sold to visitors at the winery, through their website, and to their wine club members.If you're planning a visit to Sonoma, be sure you make a stop at Ram's Gate winery. They are the closest winery to San Francisco too - in about thirty minutes you can be sitting atop 147 acres of vineyard hillsides, enjoying some of the finest wine in the country. And if you need a Sonoma winery to rent for a private event, they can accommodate your needs. On any sunny day in wine country, this should be a stop on your list.
Visit Ram's Gate website for more information and to plan your visit.
Ram's Gate Winery
28700 Arnold Dr.
Sonoma, CA 95476
Make a reservation online
Email: info@ramsgatewinery.com
Phone: 707 721 8700
