Heather Irwin, Author at Sonoma Magazine

Bottles of Horse and Plow winery's Hops and Honey Cider and Farmhouse Cider, at Horse and Plow winery in Sebastopol, California on Wednesday, July 27, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

6 Favorite Ciders from Sonoma County

September 2021

Fall is cider time. Here are a few favorites to sip as the leaves turn red, yellow and orange.

As intensifying wildfires collide with harvest season, vineyard workers bear the brunt of the risk in bringing in Sonoma’s prized grape crop. What rules are in place to protect these essential workers? And do government regulators—and local industry leaders—need to do more? (Erik Castro/Sonoma Magazine)

As Wildfires Collide with Harvest Season, Who’s Protecting Sonoma’s Vineyard Workers?

September 2021

Vineyard workers are deemed “essential” by the state, meaning their jobs continue even in times of crisis. The collision of fire season and grape harvest now increasingly forces workers to risk their health, and sometimes their safety, to bring in the crop.

Heather Fordham converted her garage into a pottery studio a few years back to focus on improving her craft. (Paige Green)

Petaluma Ceramist Creates Stunning Stoneware Mugs and Vases

September 2021

Heather Fordham converted her garage into a pottery studio a few years back to focus on improving her craft. “I am a perfectionist, and that probably shows in my work,” she laughs.

A Sonoma Family Retreat Creates Space for Long-Held Vineyard Dream

September 2021

The owners were looking for a weekend retreat with a warm summery climate and good food and wine nearby — the fact that there was space for an on-site vineyard was a big bonus.

50 Top Restaurant Patios in Sonoma County

September 2021

A few of our favorite outdoor dining spots, featuring covered and heated patios.

These Latina Winemakers and Winery Executives Are Making a Splash in Sonoma County

September 2021

Meet three Latinas who have achieved success in an industry that can often feel like a white man's world.

Four long years in the making, Chef Dustin Valette’s epic restaurant concepts The Matheson and Roof 106, pictured, have finally opened to the public in Healdsburg. (The Matheson)

First Look: The Matheson Opens in Healdsburg

September 2021

Four long years in the making, Chef Dustin Valette’s epic restaurant concepts The Matheson and Roof 106 have finally opened to the public.

Pastries at Stellina Pronto in Petaluma. (Heather Irwin/Sonoma Magazine)

Stellina Pronto Italian Bakery and Cafe in Petaluma

September 2021

Warm focaccia, buns filled with pastry cream, Italian-inspired sweets and more are on the menu. Plus, pizzas and piadine, meatball subs and chicken Parmesan are coming soon.

EARTHSeed is a new permaculture farm that both grows food and fosters resilence in the land and its people. One of founder Pandora Thomas’ goals is to make the farm and its products accessible to those who have historically faced barriers to access, particularly communities of color. She hopes to offer a robust program of classes and farming internships. (Beth Schlanker/The Press Democrat)

Sonoma’s First Afro-Indigenous Farm Honors Traditional Agriculture

September 2021

The farm practices and teaches African agricultural skills that have endured and evolved despite centuries of slavery and diaspora.

At Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen. (Sarah Deragon)

The Most Beautiful Historic Barns in Sonoma

September 2021

From melon and hop barns to a popular wedding venue, make a day trip to explore these historic buildings in Sonoma County.