7 Things to Do in Russian River Valley

December 2016

By Sunset

Osmosis Day Spa & Sanctuary in Freestone.

Hike, hit the water, get a Zen facial, and buy farm fresh produce – there’s plenty of things do to in the Russian River Valley.

Sonoma Wool Company / Sonoma County Farm Trails — Sonoma County Farm Trails hosts a variety of events to connect visitors with local farmers. (Photo courtesy of Sonoma Wool Company/Sonoma County Farm Trails)

Sonoma County Farm Trails
While vineyards have displaced some of Sonoma County’s fabled fruit orchards, the county is still a paradise for the fresh produce lover. The largest concentration of growers are in the Sebastopol and Russian River areas. Throughout the year, Farm Trails hosts a variety of events to connect with local farmers. August brings the Gravenstein Apple Fair dedicated to the famous heirloom apples. Sonoma County farmers open their gates to visitors for a peek at life on the farm in September. Sonoma County Farm Trails, (707) 837-8896, www.farmtrails.org

Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville. (Photo courtesy of Johnson’s Beach)

Johnson’s Beach
For Russian River locals, Johnson’s Beach is the quintessential summer spot. Swim, sunbathe, or float in the river setting nestled among redwoods. The sunny spot has been a seasonal tradition for Guerneville for nearly 100 years. Feast at the snack bar, rent a paddle boat, and lounge under a blue umbrella for a good time by the water. 16215 and 16217 First Street, Guerneville, (707) 869-2022, johnsonsbeach.com

Osmosis Day Spa in Freestone. (Photo courtesy of Trinette Reed Photography)

Osmosis Day Spa
If your idea of heaven is a cedar enzyme bath followed by a Zen harmony facial, then this soothing Asian-influenced day spa is the place for you. Immerse your body in a bed of ground cedar, warmed biologically by fermentation. Benefits include boosted metabolism and circulation. After the bath, receive sound therapy in a field of hammocks. 209 Bohemian Hwy, Freestone, CA 95472, (707) 823-8231, osmosis.com

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Guerneville. (Photo by Rachel Weill)

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Coast redwoods tower over Armstrong alongside the Russian River. They serve as a living example of what the forest that covered much of the area looked like before 19th century logging operations invaded. The Natural Reserve preserves Sequoia sempervirens. Half a mile from the park entrance, you’ll find the 1,400-year-old Colonel Armstrong Tree. Just before it, spot the tallest tree there, the Parson Jones Tree, at 310 feet, longer than a football field. Beside Armstrong is Austin Creek State Recreation Area, whose more open terrain has camp sites. 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville 95446, (707) 869-2015, parks.ca.gov

The Gardener Healdsburg. (Photo by Caitlin McCaffrey)

The Gardener
Opened in 1984 as a Berkeley storefront, The Gardener Healdsburg features lots of outdoor furniture and a garden that’ll make you green with envy. Start in the yard where sculptures and fountains are displayed in a field of flowers. Venture inside the barn to find Japanese scissors for cutting flowers, ceramic pots from local makers, or pure lavender soap. They’ve got everything a garden lover could want. 516 Dry Creek Rd., Healdsburg, (707) 431-1063, thegardener.com

Canoe and Kayak
Generations of Northern Californians have first put paddle to water here on the Russian River. Outfitters include Burke’s Canoe Trips (burkescanoetrips.com, 8600 River Road, Forestville, (707) 887-1222), River’s Edge Kayak & Canoe Trips (riversedgekayakandcanoe.com, 13840 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, (707) 433-7247), and Russian River Adventures (russianriveradventures.com, 20 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, (707) 433-5599).

Healdsburg Famers Market. (Photo by Maggie Preston)

Healdsburg Farmers’ Market
Shop where the local celebrity chefs buy their produce. Founded in 1978, it’s one of the original 22 Certified Farmers’ Markets in California. All of the farms at this market come from within 10 miles of Healdsburg Plaza. Offerings include fruits, veggies, cheese, honey, wild fish, olive oil, and fresh eggs. Healdsburg city parking lot at North and Vine Streets; 9-noon Sat, May through Nov; 3-6 Wed, June through Oct, healdsburgfarmersmarket.org

BiteClub’s Top 30 Munchies List

December 2016

By biteclub

With an estimated 30,000 cannabis enthusiasts descending on Santa Rosa for the annual Emerald Cup there’s bound to be a munchie rush come late afternoon. Maybe sooner, since things kick off pretty early at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. And while there will be plenty to nibble at the event, we’ve put together a dream list of toker snacks both obvious and not-so-obvious that are BiteClub recommended.

First off, a little science lesson about eating when high. Stoners know that “Oh my god this is the absolute best thing I’ve ever eaten in my life” feeling that comes after downing a bag of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, but it turns out there’s some serious physiological voodoo going on in your brain that makes it almost impossible to ignore them. According to a 2014 study by the French National Institute of Health, THC (the stuff in marijuana that makes you “high”) binds to olfactory receptors in your brain, making food smell and taste really, really good. Not just any food, mind you, because no amount of cannabis will make lima beans taste good. Typically it’s food that’s high in fat, sugar and salt, aka junk food.

So, here’s a delicious list from Biteclub and our BiteClub Facebook audience. Because whether you imbibe in the kind herb, or just get hungry reading my columns, it’s always snack-o-clock somewhere.

A word on where to find these items: Most are available at any grocery store or 7-11. Trader Joe’s gets a special call out because it’s a munchie wonderland. Obviously, not all of these recommended snacks will be easy to get hold of if you’ve already partaken, so our best advice is either to plan ahead, grab a sober friend or call a taxi. Safety first, friends.

Biteclubbers 30 Best Munchie Foods

30. GH Cretors Chicago Mix cheddar and caramel corn

29. Khatta Meetha, a sweet-salty Indian snack with Chickpeas, peanuts, peas and lentils.

28. Chocolate Covered Goji Berries

27. Cheetos Cheese Puffs

26. Nutella-covered bananas

25. Dried Mangoes

24. Roasted seaweed

23. Mountain Mike’s Pepperoni Pizza (because the curl shows the quality).

22. In-N-Out Double Double with Animal Style Fries

21. Edamame and a cherry Slurpee

20. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos

19. Lucky Charms

18. Trader Joe’s Caramelized Onion Dip

17. McDonald’s Bacon and Cheese McGriddles

16. Fried chicken

15. Rice Krispy Treats

14. Taco Bell Nachos

13. Funyons

12. Ben & Jerry’s Half Baked Ice Cream

11. Trader Joe’s Scandinavian Swimmers (aka Swedish fish)

10. Pistachios

9. Trader Joe’s Cookie Butter

Trader Joe’s Peppermint Chocolate Waffle Cookies

7. Taquitos

6. Goldfish (not real ones, duh, Pepperidge Farm)

5. Gummy Bears

4. Double Raspberry Magnum ice cream bars

3. Frito-Lay Munchie Mix

2. Sonoma Creamery Parmesan Crisps (Costco)

1. Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies

Bonus: Or, show the world your munchie faves with a foodie hoodie.

What are your favorite munchies?

The Best Winter Camping in Sonoma County and Beyond

December 2016

By Christina Molcillo

Tent campsite. (Photo courtesy of parks.ca.gov) — Tent campsite Bodega Dunes Campground. (Photo courtesy of parks.ca.gov)

When a group of friends discovered they didn't have a sunset view from their campsite, they move their chairs onto the beach at Wright's Beach Campground on the Sonoma Coast. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat) — Campers enjoy a November sunset on the Sonoma Coast. (Photo by John Burgess)

Camping is usually considered a summertime activity, with many Sonoma County campgrounds filled to capacity during the warmer months. There’s no better way to spend a vacation than taking hikes during the day and then spend the night by the campfire, telling stories and eating s’mores.

But the best camping experiences happen in the fall and winter months, when most people are busy shopping for the holidays and the crowds are staying warm inside. Without the throngs of people, the animals are more comfortable roaming in their natural habitat, and the plants are starting to take over now that they aren’t getting trampled. If you can brave the cold and don’t mind the rain, nature will reward you with stunning wildlife and wilderness views.

So grab your hiking boots and get ready to have a cold-weather camping adventure at one of these three campgrounds:

BODEGA DUNES CAMPGROUND – Bodega Bay

The Bodega Dunes Campground is an extremely popular summertime destination in Sonoma County. There’s 98 available campsites and, when it’s warm outside, they quickly fill up – so privacy is scarce and noise levels can be high. But, head out to the dunes in the winter months and you’ll generally have your pick of sites and you’ll be able to hear the waves at night – as opposed to another campfire song from three tents down the row.

You can bring your RV here, but there aren’t any hookups available, so a tent might be your best option. Since there won’t be as many large groups making noise at all hours, the nylon walls of the tent will let you hear the nocturnal animals as they start their evening foraging.

Piers to the beach. (Photo courtesy of californiabeaches.com)

Many of the campsites at Bodega Dunes Campground are within short distance to the Bodega Bay beach. This is a wonderful place to walk during a chilly morning with a pair of binoculars – you might catch sight of a whale or two. Or watch the sunset with the one you love, and enjoy a moment of meditative calm.

2003:D1:Bennie Wagers of Bodega Bay takes in the winter sunset after a day on the waves at Salmon Creek State Beach. Aperture -- F4; shutter speed -- 1/15 of a second; ASA -- 200; lens -- 17-35 mm zoom at 17mm. — Bennie Wagers of Bodega Bay takes in the winter sunset after a day on the waves at Salmon Creek State Beach. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Although it’s cold outside, campfires are not permitted on the beach. This is done in order to protect the Western Snowy Plover, one of the many local birds you’ll see during your stay. This particular bird is listed by the Federal Endangered Species Act as a threatened species, so having a chance to see one in its natural habitat is a special experience.

Western Snowy Plover. (Photo courtesy of National Park Services)

Get your cold-temperature sleeping bags ready: Bodega Dunes Campground, 2485 Highway 1, Bodega Bay.

POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE – Point Reyes Station

n aerial view of the Pt. Reyes National Seashore looking west with Estero de Limnatour, bottom left, Drakes Estero, middle right and Point Reyes, top. photo by John Burgess — An aerial view of the Point Reyes National Seashore in December, looking west with Estero de Limnatour, bottom left, Drakes Estero, middle right and Point Reyes, top. (Photo by John Burgess)

If you’re ready for a camping adventure that takes you far away from the crowds – and their vehicles – Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County is the place for you. This camping destination only offers backcountry hike-in and boat-in camping. You can choose to stay at the Coast Camp, Glen Camp, Sky Camp, Wildcat Camp or Tomales Bay; as long as you have your sturdy hiking boots on.

Sky Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore.

The hike to your camp will be worth it. No matter how cold the weather is, you’ll warm up quickly as you go, and the unspoiled nature around you will ease away any holiday woes.

Elephant Rock Sunset, Point Reyes National Seashore. (Photo courtesy of Steven Bratman, Creative Commons)

Elephant Rock can be seen from McClure’s beach – a tricky hike, but well worth the effort. If you time your adventure during low tide you can head all the way out to Elephant Cave to get the best view of the rock from across the water. The low tide will also reveal a myriad of sea life such as starfish and barnacles clinging to the rocks, and great tide pools waiting for you to take a closer peek.

Alamere Falls (Photo courtesy of alltrails.com)

Alamere Falls is a round-trip hike of around 13 miles from Point Reyes National Seashore, so make sure you bring your most comfortable shoes. This “tide fall” (a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean) is a rare occurrence and a fantastic sight to see.

Point Reyes National Seashore Woodward Trail (Photo courtesy of power-travelers.com)

The fog at the coast helps bring a peaceful quiet to any outdoor excursion. If escape was your end-goal, this is the place you’ll find it.

Make sure you have some good hiking shoes: Point Reyes National Seashore – 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station

GERSTLE COVE CAMPGROUND, Salt Point State Park – Jenner

Salt Point State Park in Jenner is well developed, and all sites come with a fire-ring, picnic table, and food locker. Gerstle Cove Campground is located on the coastal bluffs, on the ocean side of Highway One. With 30 family campsites available, this campsite quickly gets filled in the warmer months. In the winter months, you’ll have your pick of where you’d like to pitch your tent.

If you want to bring your dog with you to stay warm in the cool winter air, they are allowed, but need to be kept in vehicles at night. This may be a good time to use a pop-up camper instead of a tent. Though there won’t be many other campers around, spending the night in a cold car won’t make anyone happy.

One of the special things about Gerstle Cove is the Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve, where marine life is completely protected and where divers come to explore and examine the undersea animals up close. If you want adventure but don’t have a wetsuit, there’s a plethora of tide pools to be found on the rocks during low tide.

Gerstle Cove. (Photo courtesy of parks.ca.gov)

According to the State Parks information, sandstone from Salt Point was used in the construction of San Francisco’s streets and buildings during the mid-1800’s. Some of the rocks at Gerstle Cove still contain eyebolts where the ships were anchored while sandstone slabs were brought onboard. Nothing brings an outdoor adventure to life quite like knowing the history behind what you’re seeing, and since this is an off-season trip, you can take your time exploring.

If you’d love to be close to the ocean, but don’t want to spend the night there because of the cold marine air you can still stay at Salt Point. Across the highway, less than a mile away from the Gerstle Cove campground, you can surround yourself with redwoods and choose to go horseback riding on the over 20 miles of equestrian trails.

Make your way away from the crowds: Salt Point State Park, 25050 Highway 1, Jenner

100 Best Wines of Sonoma

December 2016

By Linda Murphy & Virginie Boone

It’s finally here: Sonoma Magazine’s expert guide to the finest Sonoma County wines.

Our yearly roundup of Sonoma’s finest has a decidedly Burgundian slant, with 39 of the Top 100 made from Chardonnay or Pinot Noir grapes.

It’s no wonder: The two varieties made famous in France’s Burgundy region thrive here, too, in growing areas such as Carneros, Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast. Cooling marine breezes and fog from the Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay create an ideal environment for growing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, producing wines with plenty of ripe fruit aromas and flavors, and bright, mouthwatering acidity that makes them particularly refreshing and food-friendly. Even rival Napa Valley has figured out that Sonoma is the place for these grapes, with dozens of wineries there purchasing fruit, and in some cases vineyards, here, making Sonoma “cool” in a whole other way.

Yet the Top 100 also shows off Sonoma’s winemaking and viticultural diversity. Sparkling wines, Sauvignon Blanc, rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rhone-style reds and whites, and of course, old-vine Zinfandel, all are strongly represented on the list.

A word must be said about retail pricing and availability. Sonoma has become such a winemaking powerhouse that its best bottles are relatively expensive — particularly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Demand, production volume and buzz largely drive wineries’ pricing decisions: The more difficult a wine is to find, and the more high scores important critics award it, the more aficionados want to have it — and will pay whatever it takes. As well, prices paid for grapes by those without their own vineyards continue to soar, mirroring Napa. Winemakers must pay the going rates, and price their wines accordingly.

Still, there are many less-expensive wines in the Top 100, and a handful of outright bargains, most from long-established wineries with wide distribution. Dry Creek Vineyard, Kenwood Vineyards, Pedroncelli Winery and Rodney Strong Vineyards are among those offering terrific bang for the buck.

SO HERE IT IS, OUR TOP 100 LIST:

Sparkling

GLORIA FERRER CAVES & VINEYARDS
2004 Carneros Cuvee Late Disgorged Brut, $75
A 97-point-scorer at the 2016 North Coast Wine Challenge, it’s yeasty and complex, with bright citrus, yellow stone fruit and green-apple character, finishing dry and mouthwatering. Deep and delicious, it won the Best of Show Sparkling award at the 2016 NCWC. (LM)

GLORIA FERRER CAVES & VINEYARDS
2007 Royal Cuvee Carneros Brut, $37
First served to Spain’s King Juan Carlos and Queen Sophia on their visit to California in 1987, this bubbly has brisk fruit and a toasty brioche character that comes from extended aging in the bottle. It has the detailed complexity of Champagne and the brightness of Sonoma fruit. (LM)

INMAN FAMILY WINES
2012 Blanc de Noir Brut Nature Russian River Valley, $68
This 100 percent Pinot Noir sparkler was made in a “brut nature” style (meaning no added sugar). So it’s bone-dry and racy, with green apple, citrus, raspberry and baking-spice notes. Scintillating on the palate, it’s perfect with oysters on the half shell and rare ahi tuna. (LM)

IRON HORSE VINEYARDS
2012 Rainbow Cuvee Green Valley of Russian River Valley, $65
It’s a blanc de noirs, comprised mostly of Pinot Noir, and it’s both rich and racy, with berry fruit and notes of citrus and apple, with a brisk finish. The Obama administration has served this focused wine at White House LGBT receptions.(LM)

IRON HORSE VINEYARDS
2011 Brut X Green Valley of Russian River Valley, $50
Super-dry, tightly wound and nervy, it has mouthwatering acidity that suggests service with bivalves, fresh crab and petrale sole. Fans of ripe, fruity sparklers might prefer other Iron Horse wines, such as Wedding Cuvee and Brut Rosé, but this exciting wine is for those who prefer greyhounds over golden retrievers.(LM)

J. VINEYARDS & WINERY
NV Cuvee 20 Russian River Valley, $32
This nonvintage wine sparkles with bright citrus, green apple and Asian pear fruit, with subtle hints of toast and brioche. Made in a slightly sweet style, it’s a great breakfast, lunch and aperitif wine, and delicious with lighter desserts, including angel food cake. (LM)

J VINEYARDS & WINERY
2006 Late Disgorged Vintage Brut Russian River Valley, $95
J’s Cuvee 20 and Brut Rosé sparklers are tasty and widely available, yet this bottling is far more serious and remarkably complex, and its price reflects that. Aromas of brioche, toasted hazelnut and baked pear lead to a crisp palate of Meyer lemon, tangy raspberry and subtle creaminess, the finish unfolding layer after layer. (LM)

Sauvignon Blanc

DRY CREEK VINEYARD
2015 Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $18
This bracing wine offers layers of white grapefruit, quince, green melon and pear aromas and flavors, with a subtle tropicality. Firm, focused and with mouthwatering acidity, it’s a fine foil for grilled fish and herbed roast chicken. As Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc soars in price, this one is an excellent value. (LM)

J. RICKARDS VINEYARDS & WINERY
2015 Croft Vineyard Alexander Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $19
Rich apple, pear and tangy citrus flavors are supported by flinty minerality and touches of vanilla and toast. This wine floods the mouth with flavor, yet remains brisk and refreshing, with an exceedingly long finish. (LM)

QUIVIRA VINEYARDS
2014 Refuge Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $30
Not the average California Sauvignon, it was barrel-aged and spent time in contact with the exhausted yeast cells after fermentation. This added smoky, earthy aromas and rich palate texture. Crisp pineapple, quince and lime flavors linger on the snappy close. (LM)

ROCHIOLI VINEYARDS & WINERY
2015 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $30
The winery’s foundation wine is lean and racy, with primary white grapefruit aromas and flavors giving way to more subtle notes of green melon and spice. Unlike most Rochioli wines, it’s relatively easy to acquire, and rewarding for its bracing, seafood-friendly nature. (LM)

SONOMA-CUTRER VINEYARDS
2015 Winemaker’s Reserve Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $25
NCWC judges awarded 96 points to this energetic, lime-infused wine with accents of grapefruit, lemongrass, guava and sweet English peas. A background vanilla note adds creaminess, achieved by partial fermentation in oak barrels. It’s a wine gimlet in the glass. (LM)

TRIONE VINEYARDS & WINERY
2015 River Road Ranch Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $23
Aromas of lemongrass, green melon and fig lead to a brisk palate of the same, plus white peach and yellow nectarine. There is also a pleasant jalapeño/justcut grass thread running through this medium-rich, refined wine, presented with style and polish. (LM)

Other Whites

ARNOT-ROBERTS
2014 Heinstein Vineyard Old Vine White Wine Sonoma Valley, $34
Sixty-year-old Riesling, Sylvaner and other ancient vines produced this exotically floral, crisp wine with pineapple, lime, quince and wet-stone character. Heinstein, previously called Compagni Portis Vineyard, is on the western flank of Mount Veeder and is remarkable for its unusual varietal mix and vine age. (LM)

BALLETTO VINEYARDS
2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Gris, $19
A mix of stainless-steel and neutral-oak fermentation gives this wine both vibrancy and polish. Made in a richer Alsatian style (as opposed to leaner Italian Pinot Grigio), it delivers lime, white peach and spice personality and mouth-filling texture similar to that of Chardonnay, with juicy vibrancy. (LM)

GUNDLACH BUNDSCHU
2014 Estate Vineyard Sonoma Coast Dry Gewürztraminer, $22
Textbook rose petal, ginger and lychee aromas lead to a juicy palate of pears, apples and citrus. It’s a dry wine that gains subtle sweetness from the ripe fruit, making it ideal for pork tenderloin and curries. (LM)

JOSEPH SWAN VINEYARDS
2014 Catie’s Corner Russian River Valley Viognier, $26
Rod Berglund continues to make an amazing array of wines showcasing the heart of the Russian River Valley, and working with Catie’s Corner Viognier is a happy marriage of winemaker and site. Berglund whole-cluster-pressed the grapes and fermented them in stainless steel. That allows a freshness of acidity and tension on the palate, along with briny lemon zest and floral notes. (VB)

KENWOOD VINEYARDS
2015 Russian River Valley Pinot Gris, $16
There’s good value in this crisp, slightly spicy wine with fleshy melon, peach, mango and lime aromas and flavors. The kiss of sweetness is balanced with zesty acidity. (LM)

MEADOWCROFT WINES
2013 Louvau Vineyard Dry Creek Valley Viognier, $28
Vivid aromas of honeysuckle, jasmine and peach lead to a rich, concentrated palate of ripe pear, peach and tropical fruit flavors. It’s a big, voluptuous wine with weight and personality. (LM)

Chardonnay

THE DONUM ESTATE
2014 Estate Carneros Chardonnay, $50
Caramel oak brackets the unfolding layers of cinnamon- dusted baked apple, papaya, banana and grilled pineapple. Flashes of racy citrus run throughout. It’s a rich wine with loads of flavor, best suited for service with fatty salmon and creamy lobster risotto. (LM)

DUTTON-GOLDFIELD WINERY
2014 Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $50
At once opulent and focused, it has fleshy tropical and green apple fruit, crème brûlée richness and bracing acidity. Full-flavored yet elegant, it packs in a lot of flavor at just 13.8% alcohol. And it’s widely available. (LM)

FLOWERS VINEYARDS & WINERY
2013 Camp Meeting Ridge Estate Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, $80
Yes, it’s expensive, but for cold-climate Chardonnay fans accustomed to drinking Burgundy, it’s a relative bargain. The bracing chill in Cazadero produces a wine with great energy, steely minerality and hints of Meyer lemon, lemon curd and peach. Delicate and subtle now, it has a track record for becoming fuller and richer with time in the bottle. (LM)

GARY FARRELL VINEYARDS & WINERY
2014 Russian River Selection Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $35
Theresa Heredia makes several stunning, single-vineyard Chardonnays at Gary Farrell, yet her blending skill is evidenced by this less-expensive Russian River Valley blend. It’s a delicious melange of Meyer lemon, green apple, poached pear, vanilla and crème brûlée, with mouthwatering acidity. (LM)

HARTFORD FAMILY WINERY
2014 Hartford Court Stone Côte Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, $65
Hartford purchased grapes from a vineyard block in the Durell Vineyard near Sonoma for this wine. It’s full-bodied yet bright, with honeysuckle, white peach, green apple and clover honey personality. Crunchy acidity makes for a long, refreshing finish. (LM)

JORDAN VINEYARDS & WINERY
2014 Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $32
This citrus- and green-apple-based wine is lean and mouthwatering now, yet has a history of evolving into a richer, broader wine in the cellar. Drink it now with pan-seared halibut and Dungeness crab cakes, but consider holding it a few years for service with roast pork loin and Thanksgiving turkey. (LM)

MACROSTIE WINERY & VINEYARDS
2014 Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay, $46
Steve MacRostie’s roots are in Carneros, though he also makes wines from grapes grown in Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast. His long relationship with the Sangiacomo family in Carneros gives him access to top-notch grapes from the ranch. That’s demonstrated in this wine, which balances fresh tropical, pear and citrus flavors with nuanced oak character and brisk acidity. The result is an elegant, refined wine. (LM)

MARTINELLI WINERY & VINEYARDS
2013 Bella Vigna Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, $45
While keeping with the potent richness theme of Martinelli wines, this one has plenty of succulent green apple and grapefruit character to make it bright and refreshing. The voluptuously ripe fruit is countered by crackling acidity and a hint of minerality. (LM)

MEDLOCK AMES
2014 Lower Slope Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $40
Vivid aromas of honeysuckle and white blossoms lead to a decadent palate of crème brûlée, citrus and pear. Lively acidity cuts through the caramel-oak richness, and the finish is long and generous. (LM)

OCCIDENTAL ROAD CELLARS
2013 Horseshoe Bend Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $28
This NCWC 96-point wine from a little-known producer comes at an excellent price for its high quality. The wine is rich in ripe pear, crisp Gravenstein apple, and spicy oak character. Hurray for the little guys. (LM)

PATZ & HALL
2014 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, $40
Produced from several vineyards, including the prestigious Gap’s Grown Vineyard near Penngrove, it’s one of Patz & Hall’s subtlest Chardonnays, with a keen balance of richness, plump fruit, minerality and snappy acidity. It offers ripe pear, pineapple, Meyer lemon, cinnamon toast and marzipan goodness. Elegance in a glass. (LM)

RAMEY WINE CELLARS
2013 Russian River Valley Chardonnay, $40
David Ramey sources grapes from a handful of Russian River Valley vineyards for this wine, blending them into a sumptuous, mouth-filling drink with green apple, pear and citrus fruit meshing with vanilla oak and spice. It’s boldly flavored yet remarkably vibrant and energetic. (LM)

ROTH ESTATE
2014 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, $28
It knocked the socks off NCWC judges, who awarded it 96 points for its inviting tropical fruit and Granny Smith apple aromas that lead to hints of creamy vanilla, golden apple and grilled pineapple. It finishes crisp and refreshing, with a minerally note. (LM)

THREE STICKS WINES
2014 One Sky Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay, $50
Winemaker Bob Cabral packed some punch into this wine, giving it full French oak treatment so that it features heady aromas and flavors of butterscotch, hazelnut, crème brûlée and baked bread. The midpalate and finish unfold with lively citrus, lemon curd and yellow-peach flavors, with enough fresh acidity to balance the oak influence. (LM)

Rosé

BALLETO VINEYARDS
2014 Russian River Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir, $19
Fresh strawberry and red-plum aromas and flavors dominate this exuberantly fruity wine, which gets a tangy kick from tangerine and grapefruit. It finishes soft and juicy, making it a fine lunch and pre-dinner sipper. (LM)

LASSETER FAMILY WINERY
2015 Enjoué Sonoma Valley, $28
This rosé is packed with lively Bing cherry and raspberry personality. A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre, is has deep coral color, enough richness to stand up to pork and lighter beef dishes, and finishes long and mouthwatering, with a kick of baking spice. (LM)

KOKOMO WINERY
2015 Pauline’s Vineyard Dry Creek Valley Grenache Rosé, $24
A Best of Class winner in previous NCWC tastings, it remains a winner, although the acclaim has made it a bit more difficult to find. Vivacious red cherry, watermelon and raspberry flavors ride a wave of brisk acidity, with ruby grapefruit and lime on the long finish. (LM)

LYNMAR ESTATE
2015 Estate Russian River Valley Rosé of Pinot Noir, $25
The color of a fresh-cut watermelon, it delivers mouthwatering watermelon, strawberry, pineapple and tangerine flavors in a slightly richer style than most, yet not at all heavy. Great with salmon. (LM)

SIDEBAR CELLARS
2015 Russian River Valley Rosé, $21
A project of Ramey Wine Cellars, Sidebar is an affordable option for tasting David Ramey’s wine-making talents. This rosé is 100 percent Syrah, from old vines growing in the Russian River Valley.Crisp and refreshing, it sports juicy strawberry and berry flavors accented by a thread of citrus. (LM)

Pinot Noir

BACIGALUPI VINEYARDS
2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $65
The Bacigalupi family’s Goddard and Frost Ranch vineyards provided the grapes for this unfined, unfiltered and utterly refreshing wine with vivid cherry, strawberry, spice and vanilla tones. (LM)

BALLETTO VINEYARDS
2014 Winery Block Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $42
NCWC judges awarded it 96 points for is superb balance, juicy Bing cherry and black raspberry flavors and spicy oak. Generous and mouth-filling, the wine has plush texture and a long, fruity finish. (LM)

BENOVIA WINERY
2013 Cohn Vineyard Pinot Noir, $70
The vineyard produced just 1 ton per acre of grapes, yet the fruit was intense and concentrated, giving the wine its rich red-fruit flavors that are balanced by minerally acidity and supple texture. (LM)

BLACK KITE CELLARS
2013 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $55
Winemaker Jeff Gaffner produced a signature Gap’s Crown Pinot: super-savory with loam, forest floor, sarsaparilla and smoke aromas. Brisk acidity frames the juicy, mouth-filling black cherry, blueberry and boysenberry fruit. Mouthwatering. (LM)

CHARLES HEINTZ VINEYARDS & WINERY
2013 Swan Selection Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $48
NCWC judges gave this smooth, supple wine 96 points and praised its intense cherry and dried-cranberry fruit, vanilla and spicy oak notes, and long, polished finish. (LM)

DELOACH VINEYARDS
2013 Swicegood Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $55
Utterly silky and delicious, it gushes with juicy darkcherry and red-berry fruit tinged with savory hints of beetroot, tobacco leaf and toasted hazelnut. The tannins are velvety, the finish lush and long. (LM)

THE DONUM ESTATE
2013 Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $65
This sumptuous, generous wine has wonderfully rich dark berry and black currant fruit balanced by bright acidity. Hints of anise, blackberry pie (with crust) and lavender add to the seductive mix. (LM)

ERIN E WINES
2013 Sonoma Stage Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $37
Erin Eileen Bush is the woman behind this new, tiny-production brand. She hit the ground running with this wine, which earned 97 points at NCWC. It has richness and depth, with a cherry pie a la mode character (juicy cherry, vanilla and cinnamon-dusted crust). The finish lasts forever. (LM)

FRANCIS COPPOLA RESERVE
2014 Dutton Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $38
NCWC judges’ love affair with Pinot Noir continued with this 97-pointer from winemaker Corey Beck. Made in a riper style, it’s an intense wine with full body and length, luscious blackberry and dark cherry fruit, and hints of Asian spice, toast and vanilla for complexity. (LM)

GARY FARRELL VINEYARDS & WINERY
2014 Hallberg Vineyard Dijon Clones Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, $60
This plump, luscious wine is made from Pinot Noir clones 667 and 777 grown on the Hallberg ranch. It sports intense dark cherry and briary raspberry fruit, balanced by suave tannins and a refreshing finish. (LM)

HARTFORD FAMILY WINERY
2014 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $40
Grapes from the estate and a small amount of purchased fruit combine in this deep-fruited, concentrated wine with earthy, dark-cherry aromas and flavors, silky texture and palate-whisking acidity. (LM)

JOSEPH SWAN VINEYARDS
2013 Trenton Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $69
Delicate and focused, it has briary red raspberry and cherry fruit, subtle wood spice and a snappy finish. A classy wine best served with mushroom-sauced pasta and pork belly. (LM)

KOKOMO WINERY
2014 Peters Vineyard Winemaker’s Reserve Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $48
This four-clone blend is voluptuous and dense, with loads of black cherry and plum fruit. Black tea — a common characteristic in cool-climate Pinot Noir — adds a savory note to this supple wine’s brisk finish. (LM)

LANDMARK VINEYARDS
2014 Detour Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $35
This wine showcases the dark-fruit profile of Pinot Noir. Black cherry and raspberry flavors are enhanced by notes of truffle, lavender and cola. The tannins are structured yet supple, suggesting a long life in the cellar. (LM)

LYNMAR ESTATE
2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $45
Three vineyards, including the estate Quail Hill Vineyard, contributed to this succulent, layered wine packed with red cherry and cranberry fruit, framed by spicy oak. It’s soft, sumptuous and polished. (LM)

MACPHAIL WINE
2013 The Flyer Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $49
James MacPhail’s devotion to Pinot Noir shows in this fleshy wine with heady aromas and flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and cola. A subtle shading of toasty oak and vanilla enhances the mouth-feel and carries through on the long finish. (LM)

MERRY EDWARDS WINERY
2013 Meredith Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $60
Edwards’ first owned vineyard produced a compact, well-structured wine with myriad notes of black cherry, wild berry, Asian spice, cola and toffee. It finishes both silky and firm, and is a great match for grilled duck breast. (LM)

PAPAPIETRO PERRY WINERY
2013 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $53
Bright, tangy and checking in at a moderate 13.5 percent alcohol, this pretty, elegant wine favors red fruits over black and boasts hints of fresh herbs and black tea for a slightly savory profile. Saliva-inducing acidity leaves a lingering finish and invites another sip. (LM)

PEDRONCELLI WINERY
2014 Signature Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $20
Kudos to Pedroncelli for producing a varietally true Pinot Noir at an affordable price. It’s not full and rich, as are most Pinots on this list, but rather bright and tangy, with clean cherry and raspberry character, a hint of spice and an underlying earthiness. (LM)

SIDURI WINES
2013 Ewald Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $49
Its effusive floral aroma leads to a nicely balanced, almost delicate, and energetic palate of juicy red cherry, pomegranate and raspberry fruit, with subtle spice from oak aging. Focused on finesse rather than power, it’s an elegant wine with huge charm and poise. (LM)

SOJOURN CELLARS
2013 Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $50
Best known for the family’s Carneros vines, Sangiacomo also has a stunning vineyard at the base of Sonoma Mountain, in the chilly Petaluma Gap region. It’s the source for this bracing and layered Pinot, with dark cherry and berry fruit, cola, black tea and woodsy notes. It has the firm structure for service with duck, lamb and even beef dishes. (LM)

SONOMA-CUTRER VINEYARDS
2014 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $34
This generous, round and vibrant Pinot Noir is the most available of Sonoma-Cutrer’s reds, with dark -cherry and red-plum fruit, forest-floor complexity and caressing tannins. The price is right for high-quality Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. (LM)

SONOMA-CUTRER VINEYARDS
2013 Vine Hill Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $55
This wine scored 95 points from NCWC judges, who praised its rich dark-berry flavors, creamy oak shading and vibrant acidity. It’s currently available only to wine club members — though NCWC judges didn’t know that at the time of tasting — so contact the winery for purchasing options. (LM)

THREE STICKS WINES
2013 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $60
Former Williams Selyem winemaker Bob Cabral, now with Three Sticks in Sonoma, coaxed a 98-point NCWC wine from a handful of vineyards near Sebastopol. It’s elegant and vibrant, sporting deep aromas and flavors of cherry, boysenberry, cola, sassafras and spice. Firm tannins make it cellar-worthy. (LM)

WESTWOOD ESTATE
2014 Clone 37 Annadel Gap Vineyard Sonoma Valley Pinot Noir, $54
It scored a chart-breaking 99 points at the NCWC and was chosen ‘Best of the Best’ — meaning the best wine in the competition. Made in a lush, juicy style, it reduced judges’ comments to simply “wow” and “yum.” A retaste shows ripe black cherry and darkberry aromas and flavors, silky, seamless texture, and enough acidity to keep the excitement going on the palate. (LM)

Cabernet Sauvignon

ARCHIMEDES
2013 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $85
NCWC judges gave it 95 points for its firm structure, textbook cedar, forest floor and cassis character, and toasty French oak. A flagship wine from Francis Ford Coppola, Archimedes is as serious as Cab gets and should age beautifully for a decade or more. (LM)

CHATEAU ST. JEAN
2013 Cinq Cépages Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, $80
Made from five Bordeaux red varieties led by Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a finely tuned wine with boysenberry, black currant, chocolate and black-tea notes. Supple and delicious now, it will show its complete self with cellaring. (LM)

DRY CREEK VINEYARD
2013 Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $25
A super-steal for top-notch Cabernet, it could easily pass for a $50-plus wine. Youthful and firmly structured, it has textbook Cab qualities of forest floor, cedar and a pleasant hint of dried herbs, all wrapped around a core of juicy black cherry and plum fruit. (LM)

FOREFATHERS
2013 Lone Tree Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $69
Smoothly tannic yet structured, it offers succulent black cherry and black currant flavors and unfolding layers of toasty oak, tobacco, herbs, pepper and cedar. It’s a great match for rosemary-studded lamb. (LM)

LAUREL GLEN VINEYARD
2013 Counterpoint Sonoma Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, $40
Laurel Glen’s “second” Cabernet Sauvignon (the “regular” is estate-grown) is ready to drink now, with bright, juicy blackberry and red currant fruit and round, supple tannins. Crushed rock, licorice and smoke add interest, and the finish is long and vibrant. (LM)

MEDLOCK AMES
2013 Fifty Tons Bell Mountain Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $60
Black, bold and brawny describes this youngster, which will mature beautifully with three or more years in the cellar (or enjoy now with rare steak). Black and blue fruit flavors are seasoned with oak spice, cedar, forest floor and tobacco leaf notes. (LM)

MOSSBACK
2013 Chalk Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, $25
This NCWC 95-point wine is medium-bodied and with generous amounts of Petit Verdot and Merlot added for depth and complexity. At its core is rich, ripe cherry and dark berry fruit and barrel spice. (LM)

RODNEY STRONG VINEYARDS
2013 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $20
Longtime Rodney Strong winemaker Ric Sayre can be counted on to produce classic Cabernet Sauvignon at an affordable price. This medium-bodied wine ticks all the boxes, with cassis, dark cherry, cedar and mocha character on a soft, rounded palate, finishing fresh. 95 points, NCWC. (LM)

STONESTREET ESTATE VINEYARDS
2012 Alexander Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, $45
From the hilltops and benchlands of Alexander Valley comes this lovely Cabernet dusted in cedar and a faint rose-petal aroma. Along with a delicate supporting cast of oak and tannin, it offers black cherry, graphite and dried herbs, as well as a powerful concentration on the finish. (VB)

TRENTADUE WINERY
2013 La Storia Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, $36
Full-bodied and ripe, it earns kudos for its juicy plum and dark cherry flavors and background notes of tobacco and allspice. Rounded tannins complete the picture. (LM)

Other Red Varietals

ESTATE 1856 WINES
2013 Tzabaco Rancho Vineyards Dry Creek Valley Malbec, $36
Brian and Janice Schmidt (she’s the winemaker) won gold and achieved 95 points at the NCWC with this brawny, dense wine with blackberry, blueberry and mulberry flavors accented by chocolate, vanilla and baking spice. The tannins are quite firm, suggesting a year or more of bottle age will reward the patient. (LM)

I MILLE
2012 Knights Valley Cabernet Franc, $42
Another Francis Ford Coppola/Corey Beck wine, I Mille earned 95 points from NCWC judges. It’s a melange of red cherry, black raspberry, tobacco leaf, dried herbs and clove character, quite ripe, and with toasty, vanillin oak coming through on the finish. (LM)

KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY
2013 Grand Reserve Sonoma County Merlot, $26
Spicy oak frames the plush, juicy red plum and black fruit; the supple, mouth-coating tannins are balanced by palate-whisking acidity. It delivers more than its relatively modest price would suggest. (LM)

KENWOOD VINEYARDS
2013 Jack London Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Merlot, $28
Five percent Cabernet Sauvignon boosts the structure of this wine, which brims with blueberry, cherry and redplum flavors. Nicely oaked, it has vanilla, cola, spice and toast nuances, plus an intriguing mintiness. The tannins are soft, the finish firm and long. (LM)

LAMBERT BRIDGE WINERY
2012 Sonoma County Merlot, $60
Silky and supple, it delivers a mouthful of red and black cherry fruit, accented by spice, cola, tobacco leaf and a very subtle chocolate note on the finish. Sumptuous and satisfying. (LM)

PEDRONCELLI WINERY
2014 Alto Vineyards Dry Creek Valley Sangiovese, $17
This medium-bodied, easy-drinking red is a great weeknight quaffer, with bright cherry, plum, spice and dried-herb aromas and flavors. Its rounded tannins and crisp acidity make it suitable for pizza, meat-sauced pasta and dishes with tomatoes. (LM)

ST. FRANCIS WINERY
2013 Sonoma Valley Merlot, $45
Small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec lend complexity and structure to this medium-bodied Merlot. Plump and plummy, it offers hints of dark chocolate, vanilla, cedar and spice, with rounded tannins and a juicy finish. (LM)

Rhone-Style Reds

DEHLINGER VINEYARDS
2013 Goldridge Russian River Valley Syrah, $45
From one of the few producers to have estate-grown Syrah in the Russian River Valley, this wine is made from vines planted in Goldridge soils and exhibits robust, tangy red fruit and notes of leather, pepper and wild game. Owner/ founder Tom Dehlinger’s daughter, Eva, is now the winemaker. (VB)

DUTTON-GOLDFIELD WINERY
2013 Cherry Ridge Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Syrah, $50
This wine can get lost in the accolades for the winery’s superlative Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, but not here. Boldly flavored in blackberry and blueberry fruit, it’s laced with white pepper and subtle bacon fat character, with smooth tannins and nervy acidity. (LM)

FLANAGAN
2013 Bennett Valley Syrah, $50
Smoky and meaty in both aroma and palate, it has deep, ripe plum, wild berry and dark-cherry fruit, a generous shake of black pepper, and iron-like minerality. Smooth tannins and a lush mouthfeel make it drop-dead-delicious.(LM)

J. RICKARDS VINEYARDS & WINERY
2013 Brown Barn Vineyard Alexander Valley Petite Sirah, $32
Grower Jim Rickards and winemaker Blaine Brazil teamed for this textbook Sonoma Petite Sirah — and there is nothing small about it. Big, bold flavors of blackberry, blueberry and dark plum gain even more weight from toasty oak and hints of molasses and mocha. It’s a mouthful. (LM)

LASSETER FAMILY WINERY
2013 Chemin de Fer Sonoma Valley Grenache-Syrah-Mourvedre, $56
A longtime proponent of Rhone blends, Lasseter combines 60 percent Grenache, 23 percent Mourvedre and 17 percent Syrah to full-bodied, ripely robust effect, all from estate-grown fruit. Smoky, charred oak and spicy acidity wrap around lush blackberry, cherry and tar character, with plenty of grip on the finish. (VB)

QUIVIRA VINEYARDS
2014 Wine Creek Ranch Dry Creek Valley Grenache, $32
Packed with juicy goodness (vivacious red cherry, red raspberry and strawberry pie) and silky, Pinot Noir-like in texture, it pairs nicely with salmon, duck breast, roast chicken and even mild curry. (LM)

RAMEY WINE CELLARS
2013 Rodgers Creek Vineyard Sonoma Coast Syrah, $65
Waves of black pepper, graphite, leather and smoke unfold on the nose and palate, supporting the rich but not-too-ripe blackberry and dark plum fruit. Oak sits in the background, and vibrant acidity seals the deeply delicious deal. (LM)

Zinfandel

CARLISLE WINERY & VINEYARDS
2014 Saitone Ranch Russian River Valley Zinfandel, $47
The appellation famous for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay packs a powerfully pretty punch when it comes to Zinfandel, too, particularly in winemaker Mike Officer’s hands. He coaxes a soft, focused layering of maraschino cherry and cranberry out of the grapes, and there’s an underlying richness and hints of white and black pepper. (VB)

DELORIMIER WINERY
2013 Harris Kratka Vineyard Alexander Valley Zinfandel, $38
Aromatic and with well-defined boysenberry and black cherry fruit, it’s a deep, concentrated wine along the line of Cabernet Sauvignon, but with Zin’s signature black pepper note. Mocha and dark chocolate come from oak aging, and the mellow tannins coat the mouth. (LM)

DRY CREEK VINEYARD
2014 Heritage Vines Sonoma County Zinfandel, $22
Year after year, it over-delivers for the price, with brambly raspberry and ripe cherry fruit, background leafy herbs and black pepper, and a succulent finish.(LM)

HART’S DESIRE WINES
2013 Ponzo Vineyard Russian River Valley Zinfandel, $32
“Beautifully made and spectacular,” said NCWC judges, who gave the wine 97 points. Its dark-berry fruit is racy rather than jammy, there’s plenty of peppery spice, and the finish is long and mouth-cleansing. (LM)

LIMERICK LANE
2013 Rocky Knoll Russian River Valley Zinfandel, $50
Looked after by the Bilbro brothers, Jake and Scot, Limerick Lane’s dry-farmed, rocky outcropping of vines planted initially in 1910 produced this thick, rich and beautifully composed wine. It’s full-bodied and balanced, with hints of cherry cordial and white pepper. (VB)

PEZZI KING
2013 Hunny Hill Reserve Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $75
Jammy and juicy, it’s loaded with sassy personality. A 96-pointer at NCWC, it delivers bold blackberry, cassis and plum fruit and gains complexity from white pepper, dark chocolate, Asian spice and roasted-hazelnut notes. The price, not known to NCWC judges at the time of tasting, is head-turning. (LM)

ORDAZ FAMILY WINES
2013 Montecillo Vineyard Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, $42
Chuy Ordaz grows the grapes and his son, Eppie, makes the wine for this small producer. Old vines in the Montecillo Vineyard produced this full-bodied, zesty Zin, which has a subtle minty note to the maraschino cherry, blackberry and mocha aromas and flavors. (LM)

RANCHO ZABACO
2014 Sonoma Heritage Vines Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $15
This is a super-bargain wine, soft, smooth and easy to drink. Jammy raspberry, blackberry and red currant fruit is laced with black pepper and baking spice, balanced by just enough acidity to keep it fresh and vibrant. (LM)

RIDGE VINEYARDS
2014 Lytton Springs Dry Creek Valley, $40
Not labeled as Zinfandel, it’s still 74 percent Zin, blended with Petite Sirah, Carignane and Mourvedre. Smoke, earth, leather and briary red fruit mark the aromas; the palate is deep, broad and mouth-filling, with dark cherry and black raspberry fruit, savory elements and a lingering finish. (LM)

WILSON WINERY
2013 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, $35
NCWC judges were impressed by the layered flavors and velvety tannins of this wine, awarding it 97 points. Classic Dry Creek Valley Zin character of white and black pepper seasons the plump blackberry and black raspberry flavors, and the finish is juicy and long. (LM)

Other Reds

BENZIGER FAMILY WINERY
2013 Joaquin’s Inferno Sonoma Mountain, $70
This certified Biodynamic wine is named for Joaquin Corona, former winemaker Mike Benziger’s “grape whisperer.” It’s an unusual Zinfandel-Petite Sirah-Grenache blend that packs a wallop, with an almost black color, dense black and blue fruit, strong bramble personality and loads of spice. Hello, smoky ribs and wild game. (LM)

2013 Tusca Brava Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak, $50
Winemaker Joe Benziger’s take on a Super Tuscan wine — one that combines traditional Italian Sangiovese grapes with Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot — scored 97 points at NCWC, with judges praising its red-fruit flavors, plush texture and affinity with Italian cuisine. (LM)

RODNEY STRONG VINEYARDS
2013 Symmetry Meritage Red Wine Alexander Valley, $55

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot, it exhibits earthy, loamy aromas and fresh flavors of plum, black cherry, raspberry and cassis. Vanillin oak softens the firm tannins, making for a balanced, delicious wine that will likely improve with cellaring. (LM)

Methodology

Sonoma wine critics Virginie Boone and Linda Murphy selected the Top 100 Wines from their extensive tastings and winery visits throughout 2016, and considered 95-point-and-higher scorers at The Press Democrat 2016 North Coast Wine Challenge (which Boone and Murphy helped judge).

Boone is a frequent contributor to Sonoma magazine, and the Sonoma and Napa critic for Wine Enthusiast magazine. She is a former Press Democrat wine writer, and contributes the LikeWine feature for Sonoma magazine. Murphy, Sonoma magazine’s managing editor, was the founding editor of the San Francisco Chronicle’s wine section, contributes to Decanter magazine and Food & Wine magazine’s annual wine guide, and is a wine consultant for Air New Zealand.

Only wines produced from Sonoma County grapes, by wineries located in the county, were eligible for the Top 100. Diversity in price, varietal and geography were important factors in determining the list. Sonoma magazine could have easily come up with a Top 300, so high is the quality of the local vino.

All Top 100 Wines were released in 2016, although some may no longer be in the marketplace. If you have difficulty finding a wine, contact the winery’s tasting room for availability. Also consider purchasing a newer vintage of the wine, as the 2013, 2014 and 2015 harvests were spectacular throughout Sonoma.

Note: Initials after each wine description are for reviewers Virginie Boone (VB) and Linda Murphy (LM).

Wines produced in Sonoma County, from Sonoma County grapes, are legally required to include “Sonoma County” on their labels.

For brevity, “Sonoma County” has been omitted from the wine names.

Best Hidden Bars, Breweries and Wineries in Sonoma County

December 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

Kick back with a tall one at one of these unsung watering holes.

This article is part of a series called “Hidden Sonoma.” To see the full list of 80+ things to do in Sonoma County, click here.

Iron Horse Winery. (photo: Christopher Chung) — Iron Horse Winery. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Cool Climate, Cool View: Iron Horse Vineyards
Isn’t it enough to make some of the best sparkling wines in America? Iron Horse Vineyards near Sebastopol is doubly blessed in that it also has one of the best tasting room views in the country. Sip in front of a lovely hillside vista of grapes overlooking the Green Valley of Russian River Valley. The sparklers deliver nuanced flavors and brisk freshness; also try the lesser-known but just-as-good Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs.

9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, 707-887-1507, ironhorsevineyards.com

Robert Young Estate Winery. (photo by Crista Jeremiason) — Robert Young Estate Winery. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Secret Side of Alexander Valley: Robert Young Estate Winery & Garden Creek Winery
While most visitors to the Alexander Valley stick to Highway 128 as they visit wineries and vineyards, the quieter northeast corner of the valley is home to producers with deep winegrowing roots, tucked beneath Alexander Mountain.
The bucolic, manicured grounds of Robert Young Estate Winery are open to the public daily. Visitors can enjoy the picnic area and cave tours, on request, and taste the winery’s famous Clone 17 (also called the Robert Young clone) Chardonnays and its Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasting is $10, refundable with purchase.

4960 Red Winery Road, Geyserville, 707-431-4811, ryew.com

Just around the corner from Red Winery Road on Geysers Road, Garden Creek Winery is open by appointment only, Monday through Friday. The small estate run by Justin Miller and Karen Warnelius-Miller grows Chardonnay and Bordeaux grape varieties for its red blend, Garden Creek Tesserae. The two-hour tour includes a candlelit tasting in the barrel room, a cheese and charcuterie pairing, and a walk through the vineyard. $30 a person.

2335 Geysers Road, Geyserville, 707-433-8345, gardencreekvineyards.com

View of Garden Creek Vineyards in Alexander Valley. (Photo courtesy of Garden Creek Vineyards)

Sound of Music: Spirit Works Distillery
Spirit Works Distillery in The Barlow center in Sebastopol is hidden in plain sight. If you haven’t visited, you haven’t experienced where Sonoma’s finest gin is produced, as well as excellent vodka, whiskey and sloe gin. The distillery tour and tasting details how these spirits are made. Take a peek into the barrel room, where spirits age in casks to the sound of tunes emitted from iPods. It’s a vibration thing.

6790 McKinley Street, No. 100, Sebastopol, 707-634-4793, spiritworksdistillery.com

Wine Whisperers: Hamel Family Wines
Inside the immaculate wine caves of Hamel Family Wines near Glen Ellen is a beautifully appointed private tasting room that looks like it was created as a corporate board room. The ceiling is coffered so that if two people stand at opposite corners of the room, they can whisper sweet nothings and be the only ones to hear them. Better still is the outdoor deck overlooking the Valley of the Moon, within spitting distance of historic Zinfandel vineyards belonging to the estate.

15401 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-996-5800, hamelfamilywines.com

Hamel Family Wines. (photo by Crista Jeremiason) — Hamel Family Wines. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

The Sun Also Sets: Redwood Bar at River’s End Restaurant
Do we seek out bars with pretty views to soften the need for conversation? Or after days on end staring at screens, are we humanly in need of some natural beauty? Either way, the Redwood Bar at River’s End Restaurant & Inn is a choice spot for a drink, presided over by a French Culinary Institute-trained bar chef, with room to sit on the outdoor patio as the sun touches down. The wine list is good, too.

11048 Highway 1, Jenner, 707-865-2484, ilovesunsets.com

On the Rocks in Roseland: Whiskey Tip
One particular block of Sebastopol Road in Santa Rosa, near Stony Point Road, is a destination mostly for souls seeking motor oil, a garden-hose bib or a laundromat. Yet here also flourishes a newish tavern that ably pairs two of life’s greatest gifts. The place is called Whiskey Tip Bourbon & BBQ, and it has a spacious patio with games out back and sports on the telly inside. Just add a glass of distilled artistry and one single, great cube of diamond-clear ice.
Sit back and relax.

1910 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707 843-5535, whiskeytipsr.com

Barndiva Gallery Bar in Healdsburg. (Photo courtesy of Barndiva)

Arts & Craft-Cocktails: Gallery Bar at Barndiva
Barndiva is beloved for the substantial torch it carries for garden-sourced cocktails, but now it’s taken things to a whole other level with its Gallery Bar next door, open Wednesday through Sunday from 3 p.m. until closing. An art gallery during the day, the space invites late-afternoon art-minded drinkers to mingle, chat and dine from the farm-to-table bar menu.

237 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-431-7404, barndiva.com/studio

Brewpub in a Grocery Store: Tap Room at Whole Foods Coddingtown
Why didn’t someone think of this before? The Tap Room at Whole Foods Market in Santa Rosa is a respite from the chore that can be grocery shopping, thanks to its island of beer-a-tude. Craft brews on tap, appetizers and pizzas are served, and dozens more bottled beers are in the cooler. Would-be home brewers will be inspired by the beer-making kits and fresh hops for sale.

390 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa, 707-542-7411, wholefoodsmarket.com

Some of the beers on tap in the Tap Room of the new Whole Foods Market at Coddingtown Mall, in Santa Rosa. Christopher Chung — Some of the beers on tap in the Tap Room at Whole Foods Market at Coddingtown Mall, in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Lug a Jug: VJB Cellars
Before Prohibition, it was common for folks to take empty jugs to wineries and have them refilled. Not only did the practice reduce the use of glass, corks and labels, the wine was cheaper by the ounce. After Repeal, jug-filling largely disappeared, but it’s slowly coming back. At VJB Cellars in Kenwood, a 1-liter (33-ounce) logo bottle of Family Blend red wine costs $24. Bring the empty back (clean, of course) and
a refill is just $12, about 36 cents per ounce.

60 Shaw Ave., Kenwood, 707-833-2300, vjbcellars.com

865 Watering Hole: The Washoe House
Credit the Washoe House with preventing what might have been California’s only Civil War battle. In 1865, a group of Petaluma militiamen set off for Santa Rosa intent, the story goes, on trashing the offices of the southern-sympathizing Santa Rosa Democrat newspaper. But thirst overcame them on the stagecoach route now known as Stony Point Road and they never made it to Santa Rosa. And the Washoe roadhouse, just as it has since 1859, continues to beckon with adult libations and hearty comfort food. Over the decades, patrons have left cards, photos, notes and bills covering every square inch of the ceiling.

2840 Stony Point Road, Petaluma, 707-795-4544, visit on Facebook

The Washoe’s new owner gave the landmark a fresh coat of red paint. (Photo / Chris Hardy) — The Washoe House in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Happy Hour Revival: The Villa Restaurant
Perched atop a hill overlooking eastern Santa Rosa, the Villa Restaurant & Bar is a traditional Italian eatery that has long been a favorite hangout of the older bocce set. But it’s quickly gaining traction as a kitschy happy-hour haunt by a new generation. With special drinks and apps available from 3 to 6:30 p.m. daily, selected beers and wines are just $2; value-priced tummy busters include $2 fried zucchini, fried polenta and hot dogs, $4.50 steamed clams, small pizzas for $5 and a petite plate of spaghetti and meatball for $4.

3901 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-7755, the villarestaurant.com

Old-School Italian: Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar
During Prohibition, ranchers bringing their eggs and milk to town would stop at a little Italian grocery, hand over their shopping lists and then head to the back room for a bit of lubrication. That the dining room was once a speakeasy speaks to the appeal of Volpi’s Ristorante & Bar in downtown Petaluma. With old-fashioned Italian food served on red-checked tablecloths, the occasional accordion serenade by owners John and Sylvia Volpi, and strong drinks, it remains a comfy place for conviviality.

124 Washington St., Petaluma, 707-765-0695, visit on Facebook

Jamie Spaletta, prepares to take an order, Friday Jan. 20, 2012 at Volpi's Ristorante and Historical Bar in Petaluma. (Kent Porter / Press Democrat) 2012 Kent Porter — Jamie Spaletta, prepares to take an order at Volpi’s Ristorante and Historical Bar in Petaluma. (Photo by Kent Porter)

Soup, Sandwich and Syrah: Ancient Oak Cellars
Downtown Santa Rosa isn’t known for winery tasting rooms, so it might come as a surprise to wine lovers that there is an excellent one, Ancient Oak Cellars. The winery is joined by seven other drinks producers, giving tasters the rare opportunity to sample wine, cider and mead at one location. In March, Ancient Oak relocated from Corrick’s Stationery Store on Fourth Street to the former Downtown Deli space down the block, taking advantage of the outdoor patio and kitchen, from which sandwiches spring forth daily and small plates are served by night, Friday through Sunday.

621 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-536-1546, ancientoakcellars.com

Oenophile’s Paradise: Sonoma County Wine Library
One of the nation’s deepest collections of wine-related books, oral histories, magazines, journals, photographs, maps, labels, posters and videos is right here, at the Sonoma County Wine Library. Taking up one-third of the Healdsburg Regional Library, this enological treasure trove is open to the public and overseen by Wine Librarian Jon Haupt. (Who knew such a title existed?) Oldest among the 6,000 books: “Libri de re Rustica,” published in 1514. The library also hosts speakers, authors and tastings.

139 Piper St., Healdsburg, 707-433-3772, sonomalibrary.org

Local Town Makes List of Best Christmas Main Streets

December 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

The Charlie Brown Tree Grove has 184 holiday trees on display at the Windsor Town Green. Crista Jeremiason

The nationwide “Only in Your State” network, covering the best things to do and see in all 50 states, has ranked the 7 best Christmastime main streets in Northern California – and the town of Windsor made the cut!

The Only in Your State list, titled “Seven Main Streets in Northern California that are Pure Magic During Christmastime,” highlighted cities in Northern California that make the holiday season an especially wonderful time of the year by decorating their main streets and hosting holiday community events.

catches "snow" at the Charlie Brown Tree Grove in the Windsor Town Green, Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012. One hundred eighty four decorated holiday trees are on display. Rancho Cotate vs. Willits Basketball Crista Jeremiason — Children catching “snow” at the Charlie Brown Tree Grove in the Windsor Town Green. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

In the article, Windsor was recognized for the annual Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove sponsored by People4Parks: “in Windsor, businesses, individuals, students and groups decorate a Charlie Brown tree and display them all on the Windsor Town Green for the community to enjoy.”

CC1129_FEATURE_KIDSXMASTREES_806478 — The Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove in Windsor. (Photo by Cristopher Chung)

This year’s Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove includes a total of 210 decorated trees, a dazzling Christmas light display, nightly snowfall at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and “Family Fridays in the Tree Grove” with visits from Santa, live music, crafts for kids, hot cider and treats from 5:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. For a more detailed schedule, visit the people4parkswindsor.org.

Patrick James, 3, stands with his Dr. Seuss themed tree at the Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove in Windsor on Sunday, December 1, 2013. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat) Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove Conner Jay Publication Date: December 2, 2013 — Patrick James, 3, stands with his Dr. Seuss themed tree at the Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Grove in Windsor, December 1, 2013. (Photo by Conner Jay)

65 Cheap Eats in Sonoma County

December 2016

By Sonoma Magazine Staff

The Mondo Double cheeseburger, weighing in at 14 ounces, from Healdsburger in Healdsburg. (Chris Hardy)

Beet salad and fish and chips from Willi's in Healdsburg Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Beet salad and fish and chips from Willi’s in Healdsburg. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

You don’t have to be wealthy to eat well in Sonoma County. Sure, there are high-end restaurants with deep wine lists, $15 cocktails and menu items that include exotic and expensive ingredients. But beyond the gustatory glitz is a smorgasbord of good, honest and affordable eateries and dishes across the region. There are myriad options for delicious indulgence, but only if you know where to go. And we do. Welcome to cheap eats, Sonoma County style.

Start the Day

DIERK’S MIDTOWN CAFÉ

This is the second location for Mark Dierkhising and Karen Brodsky (their first is Dierk’s Parkside Café). Their smoked salmon hash ($14.25) commands attention, accompanied by oven-dried tomatoes, green onions and hash browns. The perfectly cooked salmon is topped with two eggs and a chive-lemon-horseradish sauce that brings all the flavors together. And guess what? It’s the most expensive item on the menu, delivering great bang for the buck.

1422 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-2233, dierksmidtown.com

Eggs benedict at Dierk’s in Santa Rosa. (Photo by John Burgess)

HOMEGROWN BAGELS

Beautiful bagels and bialys have been made here for nearly 40 years, and there are a variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, too. Best deal: six bagels and cream cheese for just $10.

201 W. Napa St., No. 21, Sonoma, 707-996-0166, homegrownbaking.wordpress.com

TINY TOWN CAFE

This unassuming coffee shop in “downtown” Forestville makes one of the best burritos in the land, the Spicy Bomb Breakfast Burrito ($8). It’s huge, enough for two meals, with two eggs, Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, oven-roasted potatoes and black beans folded into an extra-large flour tortilla and toasted on the grill. The kick comes from poblano or jalapeño chiles, added on request. And the chai with almond milk is to die for.

6544 Front St., Forestville, 707-887-1400, visit on Facebook

CAFE SCOOTERIA

This retro drive-thru surrounded by vintage scooters serves great coffee drinks and chai, doughnuts, bagels, pastries, croissant sandwiches, breakfast burritos, gelato and more, all at very fair prices. A scooter driver will deliver an order to your door, if you’re in range.

55 W. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-938-0800, cafescooteria.com

Latte and pastry from Scooteria in Sonoma Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Latte and pastry from Scooteria in Sonoma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

CRISP BAKESHOP

Executive chef Moaya Scheiman and pastry chef Andrea Koweek keep it local, organic and sustainable. Their breakfast biscuits ($4.25) with eggs and melty cheese sandwiched between knobby buttermilk biscuits are filling superstars, as are the sandwiches, which include pickled egg salad and salmon, and the Cubano (smoked pork loin, soppressata, copa, Holey Cow cheese and spicy bread and butter pickles) for $9.95, with a choice of side salad or chips. Pastries, cupcakes and other sweet things complete a meal.

20 W. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-933-9999, crispbakeshop.com

WORTH OUR WEIGHT

With weekends-only brunches prepared and served by enrollees in Evelyn Cheatham’s culinary apprenticeship program, Worth Our Weight provides big wows at very fair prices. Her team prepares savory staples such as extraordinary spaghetti carbonara, lamb hash with poached eggs and sautéed greens, and brandade (puree of salt cod) cakes topped with poached eggs and a kale salad alongside, each for $9.95. Ethereal scones with butter and preserves are complimentary.

1021 Hahman Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-544-1200, worthourweight.org

Lemon Tart at Tiny Town Cafe in Forestville. (Photo courtesy of Tiny Town Cafe)

BREAKAWAY CAFE

Bob Rice presides over this popular eatery, with egg dishes available for breakfast and lunch. Hotcakes and waffles, too, plus soups, lots of large salads, sandwiches and burgers, with many dishes under $12.

19101 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-996-5949, breakawaycafe.com

PICAZO CAFÉ

Sal Chavez and his family and friends serve early coffee and pastries, bagel breakfast sandwiches ($8) and omelets ($10) that come with potatoes, toast, fruit and homemade jam. For lunch, go for the burgers, which are grilled outside and come in a variety of styles and fixins’, with fries, for $10.

19100 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-931-4377, picazocafe.com

Chad Harris opened the Fremont Diner in Sonoma for breakfast and lunch so he could be home to pick up his kids from school. John Burgess — Chad Harris opened the Fremont Diner in Sonoma for breakfast and lunch so he could be home to pick up his kids from school. (Photo by John Burgess)

Timeless Classics

WILLIE BIRD’S RESTAURANT

With weeknight dinner deals that include an entree plus soup or salad for $13.95, it’s hard to go wrong at Willie Bird’s. Craving Thanksgiving flavors out of season? There are multiple options, including the open-faced hot turkey sandwich, which comes with mashed potatoes, stuffing, giblet gravy and cranberry sauce ($12.95). Show up early for happy hour, Monday through Friday, 4:30-6:30 p.m., for free appetizers along with your favorite libation.

1150 Santa Rosa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-542-0861, williebirdsrestaurant.com

BERGAMOT ALLEY

Eating in the ’Burg can cost a bunch, but this lively wine shop, music venue and once-a-week movie house sells classic grilled cheese sandwiches, soups and salads at affordable prices. The Healdsburg Classic and Pepper Party (with a slather of handmade pimento) grilled cheeses are $10 and come with kettle chips and house-made sauerkraut and pickles (or a green salad). The Hippie Points sandwich (cashew cheese, arugula, butternut squash, curry cashews and cherry pepper spread on gluten-free bread ($12) should please any vegan and comes with the same sides.

328 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-8720, bergamotalley.com

Bergamot Alley (Photo by Erik Castro) — Bergamot Alley in Healdsburg sells classic grilled cheese sandwiches, soups and salads at affordable prices. (Photo by Erik Castro)

THE FREMONT DINER

This roadside mecca serves up stellar, Southern-style comfort food in a retro roadhouse atmosphere. The biscuits are buttery and fabulous, particularly when they’re used as a vehicle for fried chicken. The chicken biscuit ($4.99) is perfectly seasoned and crunchy, adorned with spicy sausage gravy. If you’ve got swine in mind, go for the house-smoked ham biscuit ($3.99), slathered with orange marmalade and grainy mustard. At these prices, you can have one of each.

2698 Fremont Drive, Sonoma, 707-938-7370, thefremontdiner.com

Chicken biscuit and ham biscuit from Fremont Diner in Sonoma Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Chicken biscuit and ham biscuit from Fremont Diner in Sonoma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

MAC’S DELI AND CAFE

What’s not to love about ginormous, really good sandwiches flanked by a pickle? How about when they’re just $6.50-$8.50 for stacked-high kosher specialties such as hot corned beef layered with coleslaw? Best ever deal: hot corned beef on rye with choice of salad and a glass of tap beer, all for $8.75. Breakfast is a winner, too, for two eggs with pastrami, home fries or hash browns, and a bagel for $8.95.

630 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-3785, visit on Facebook

RICARDO’S BAR & GRILL

Miss Caffe Portofino? You’ll find some of the staff members now at Ricardo’s.

Sit at the long bar or grab a booth and check out the grilled cheese and tomato soup with Parmesan-crusted bread ($12) or the four-piece fried chicken plate with mashed potatoes and gravy ($17.50). Happy hour is 2-6 p.m. daily, with $4 cocktails, $5 wine, $2.50-$5 beer and $4-$8 appetizers.

2700 Yulupa Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-545-7696, ricardosbarandgrill.com

The Reuben sandwich from Ricardo's Restaurant and Bar in the Annadel Shopping Center in Santa Rosa. Ricardo's — The Reuben sandwich at Ricardo’s Bar & Grill.

Viva Italia

BACI CAFE & WINE BAR

Snag a seat at the bar and enjoy insalata Cesare ($12), creamy polenta ($9) with Gulf shrimp ($3 each) and wild arugula ($4); spaghetti with olive oil and garlic ($8), and spinach with pancetta ($8).

336 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-8111, bacicafeandwinebar.com

RUSTIC FRANCIS’S FAVORITES

Francis Ford Coppola’s beloved Italian dishes are on display here, at his restaurant at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. The fairly priced menu, offered 11 a.m.-9 p.m., includes bargains such as spaghetti al pomodoro ($12), Uncle Mikey’s sausage sandwich with peppers and onions ($12), grilled vegetables with rice ($12) and a muffaletta sandwich that feeds three to four ($20). The L’Ami Louis Gâteau de Pommes — potato cake — is $16 and one is enough for a table of four to six.

300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, 707-857-1471, francisfordcoppolawinery.com

Pizza Luigino is served at the Rustic restaurant at Francis Ford Coppola Winery on Tuesday, November 5, 2013. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat) Rustic at Francis Ford Coppola Winery Conner Jay — Pizza Luigino is served at Rustic restaurant at Francis Ford Coppola Winery (Photo by Conner Jay)

THE RED GRAPE

Shared New Haven-style, thin-crust pizzas with white or red sauce ($13.50-$18) are the way to go at this neighborhood favorite that’s also kid-friendly. Not into a pie? Check out the beef or quinoa burger with fries or cole slaw ($12), truffled onion rings ($10), and tomato basil soup ($4.75 cup, $6.95 bowl) or clam chowder ($5.95 cup, $7.95 bowl).

529 First St. W., Sonoma, 707-996-4103, theredgrape.com

VIGNETTE

Chef Mark Hopper’s wood-fire fare features delicious individual pizzas, including the Red Eye (Calabrese chile pesto, eggs, mozzarella, mortadella, $17), that are big enough to share, as is the enormous chopped kale salad ($9; with an egg, $11). Fire-roasted potatoes ($6) and addictive rosemary flatbread with spicy Iberico lardo ($13) are also recommended.

The Barlow, 6750 McKinley St., Sebastopol, 707-861-3897, vignettepizzeria.com

Meatball Parm pizza served at Vignette at The Barlow in Sebastopol, Tuesday, September 16, 2014. ( — Meatball Parm pizza served at Vignette at The Barlow in Sebastopol. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Ahoy, Matey

THE BOAT HOUSE

Fish and chips were never more spectacular than they are here. For $11.95, you get a big portion that would demand a doggie bag if you didn’t want to consume every last fluffybattered, crisp-fried, steamy bite right on the spot. Shack owner Rick Powers mans his own schooner to haul in the rock cod fresh from the bay, and his cooks turn the sweet flesh into light-as-air masterpieces served with thick-cut fries, lemon wedges and tartar sauce. Best seat: a tiny table overlooking the water.

1445 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3495, visit on Facebook

FOURTH AND SEA

Anchored on the corner of Fourth and C streets, this humble joint fries up some of the best fish and chips in Sonoma – and some say, the Bay Area. For less than $8, you get a huge piece of grease-free, flaky white fish, served with coleslaw and addictive batter-dipped steak fries. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, plus a walk-up window and drive-thru for takeout orders.

101 Fourth St., Petaluma, 707-762-6424, fourthandsea.com

Fish and chips from Fourth and Sea in Petaluma Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Fish and chips from Fourth and Sea in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

QUICKLY

It’s a chain, true, but Santa Rosa is home to the only Quickly in the county, where tasty fried seafood on sticks, bubble milk teas and other Asian snacks draw a Santa Rosa High and Santa Rosa Junior College crowd. At $3-$4 for most items, thrifty eaters can munch on fried baby octopus, squid balls, calamari rings and shrimp trigon, washed down with a mango milk tea.

1880 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-303-7412, quicklyusa.com

PC:Biteclub Fried mini octopus at Quickly in Santa Rosa. Photo Heather Irwin. 2/15 — Fried mini octopus at Quickly in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

Food Trucks

EL COYOTE

This taco truck sets up shop daily, across from Sonoma Valley High School. Super-popular with kids of all ages, the truck is clean and decorative, the service fast, the prices right. Breakfast burritos ($5.50-$7.50), tacos ($2-$6.50,) burritos ($7.50-$8.50) and tostadas and taco salads ($5.50-$7.50) are huge and filling. Dinner plates (meat, rice, beans, toppings and tortillas) are just $8.50.

1001 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-480-5001

EL ROY’S

Before there was the El Roy’s Mexican Grill sit-down restaurant in Petaluma, there was El Roy’s taco truck. Al pastor and shrimp tacos, burritos, quesadillas and so much more continue to be offered, at great prices, outside the restaurant location.

210 Edith St., Petaluma, 707-241-6534, visit on Facebook

El Roy's Mexican Grill has been voted the best food truck in Sonoma County. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat) — El Roy’s in Petaluma. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

TACOS JALISCO

Not a truck but a cart, it’s run by the family of the women who make flour and corn tortillas inside at Jalisco Tortilleria y Taqueria. The taco cart has a long line before it opens at 5:30 each evening, so bring your patience and use the time to decide whether to get the $2 soft tacos (al pastor, tripe, tongue, pork cheek, chicken or steak), quesadillas ($8) or tortas ($8). Help yourself to the tubs of guacamole, pickled vegetables and spicy salsa.

847 W. Napa St., Sonoma, 707-935-7356

TIPS TRI-TIP

This truck really gets around … Sonoma County. It appears at farmers markets, wineries, music and film festivals and more (check the website), offering dishes such as tri-tip chili with cornbread ($8) and tri-tip “sando” (sandwich), a half-pound of beef with cole slaw and chipotle sauce ($11).

tipstritip.com

CROQUES & TOQUES

This Cotati-based truck specializes in croquettes – meat, fish and vegetable rolls that are coated in breadcrumbs and fried. Good-value eats include chicken Parmesan croquettes with mozzarella and marinara sauce ($8), and croque monsieur croquettes with ham and Gruyère and Emmentaler cheeses ($8). The truck appears regularly throughout Sonoma; check the website for details.

415-830-9046, croquesandtoques.com

Holiday Feast croquettes from the Croques and Toques food truck in Santa Rosa, California. Photo: Heather Irwin/Press Democrat. — Holiday Feast croquettes from the Croques and Toques food truck in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

Meat Market

ALIOTO’S HEALDSBURGER

The former 1950s A& W is now a virtual burger palace, thanks to owner David Alioto. That means a funky setting and also some of the best burgers around, piled with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, mayo, mustard, ketchup and a choice of seven cheeses. The bomb? The Mondo Double cheeseburger, weighing in at 14 ounces ($10.50). Split a side of superb chili cheese fries ($6.50) with your dining accomplice, and it’s the only meal you’ll need all day.

48 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-473-9604, healdsburger.com

COCHON VOLANT SMOKE HOUSE

Rob Larman smokes and barbecues meats to perfection and offers tons of sides. Bargains include four pieces of fried chicken with two sides, enough for two ($15), and a barbecued pulledpork sandwich doused in coarseground coriander Carolina sauce, and one side dish ($10). Bring your own wine and there is no corkage fee — a rather rare bonus in Sonoma.

18350 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-509-5480, cochonvolantbbq.com

BROADWAY MARKET

The deli is a wonderland of plump breakfast burritos, homemade soups, giant sandwiches and hot entrees such as meatloaf, rotisserie chicken and ribs, all of premium quality from a grocery store that looks like a dive from the outside. The pastrami sandwich with homemade sauerkraut comes griddled or cold, on a choice of nine breads, for about $7, depending on enhancements such as cheese and avocado. One can eat well for $5-$10 throughout the entire menu.

20511 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-938-2685, broadwaymarketsonoma.com

Pastrami sandwich from Broadway Market in Sonoma Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Pastrami sandwich from Broadway Market in Sonoma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

SADDLES STEAKHOUSE

MacArthur Place’s flagship restaurant woos with sumptuous, a la carte $30-$50 steaks. But if you dine in the bar, you can score sweet deals such as a burger with Sonoma Jack cheese, applewood bacon and fries ($12), and a Kobe burger with wild mushrooms, Brie, and a salad of baby greens, candied walnuts and goat cheese ($14). This is where the beef is.

29 E. MacArthur St., Sonoma, 707-933-3191, macarthurplace.com

THE GIRL & THE FIG

Often voted “Best Burger” in town, Sondra Bernstein’s is huge and comes with a pile of shoestring fries ($14). Also tuck into the daily omelet with salad ($13). The $38 cost of the French prix fixe dinner is subjectively inexpensive, since regular entrees range from $23-$30-plus. Bernstein’s plats du jour change every Thursday, and can look something like this: Little Gem salad with radicchio, brioche toasts and lemon-Parmesan vinaigrette; braised pork ragout atop polenta with roasted baby carrots and pearl onions; and a brownie sundae topped with salted fig caramel, brandied cherries, cocoa nibs and Chantilly cream. Add wine to the three courses for just $13.

110 W. Spain St., Sonoma, 707-938-3634, the thegirlandthefig.com

Executive chef John Toulze prepares a decadent chocolate brownie at The Girl and the Fig in Sonoma on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat) The Girl and the Fig Conner Jay — Chocolate brownie at The Girl and the Fig in Sonoma. (Photo by Conner Jay)

ROY’S CHICAGO DOGS AT THE YARD

Located in the Petaluma Livestock Auction Yard, Roy’s is a world away from the hipster eateries lining Petaluma Boulevard. Take a seat at the long lunch counter and choose from 13 creative dogs. A favorite is the Chicago dog, a snappy Vienna Beef wiener in a poppy seed bun, topped with tomatoes, peppers, neon relish, celery salt, onions, mustard and a pickle spear. With crinkle-cut fries, it will set you back just $6.

84 Corona Road, Petaluma, 707-774-1574, visit on Facebook

TONY’S OF NORTH BEACH

It’s in the Graton Resort & Casino, but don’t let that stop you from having high expectations for Tony’s Prime Rib Mondays. Juicy rosemary- and garlic-encrusted beef is slathered in pan drippings and horseradish cream, and served with a salad of baby greens with creamy Gorgonzola dressing, all for a bargain price of $15.99. The larger Flintstone cut is $18.99. Make it a real waddle-out feast with $4 sides, among them roasted-garlic mashed potatoes and creamed Parmesan spinach with pancetta.

30 Park Court, Rohnert Park, 707-586-0777, tonysofnorthbeach.com

Prime rib from Tony's in Rohnert Park Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Prime rib from Tony’s in Rohnert Park. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Asian Influence

THAI TIME ASIAN BISTRO

With a menu featuring dishes priced $5-$22 (most less than $14), choices abound, and every beautifully presented item tastes as good as it looks. Fans of tom-kha coconut soup will be hooked instantly on the flavorful, rich broth packed with vegetables and a choice of chicken or tofu ($7); add $2 for prawns. The soup has just the right amount of spice and can be a meal in itself.

402 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-545-5204, thaitimeasianbistro.com

TING HAU

Look no further than this small, unassuming eatery for high-quality, fresh and inexpensive Chinese food. It might not have the flash of the pricier choices around, yet this is the real deal. For a perfect spin on a classic dish, go for the honey walnut crispy prawns lunch special ($11), which comes with steamed or fried rice, crispy wontons and hot and sour soup.

714 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-545-5204, visit on Facebook

SHISO MODERN ASIAN KITCHEN

Owner Ed Metcalfe’s best deal is the lunchtime bento boxes, which include miso soup, edamame, cucumber and seaweed salads, and steamed rice, plus choice of entree, including tofu, vegetarian, grilled salmon, Asian sticky ribs or chicken. ($8-$14). Happy hour is popular here and offers wasabi deviled eggs, miso sardines and crispy chicken wings ($1.75-$5).

19161 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-933-9331, shisorestaurant.com

Salmon and edamame bento box from Shiso in Sonoma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

GOLDEN SPRING MANDARIN CUISINE

Golden Spring serves some of the best Chinese food in Sonoma, with a special lunch menu that includes appetizer, soup, entree with rice, and fortune cookie ($6.85-$8.25); chicken, beef, pork, vegetables, and prawns are among the choices. The menu also has noodle soups, mu shu, egg foo yung, poultry, duck, lamb, beef, pork, tofu, seafood and sizzling plates ($7.25-$11.70).

18991 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-938-1275, goldenspring.weebly.com

TIAN YUEN

The work of owners Ming Cheng Kuo and Mei Jung Shih, this modern Asian spot sings with excellent Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese dishes, most under $10. There’s an authentic Thai-Indian specialty, praram long song chicken ($9.99), and vegetarians will find plenty to like, such as the tempting tofu hot basil ($9.99). Secret: If you order sushi, ask for it to be a “special,” and you get two pot stickers and soup for $2 more.

421 S. Cloverdale Blvd., Cloverdale, 707-894-5697, tianyuen.squarespace.com

he House Special chow mein is served at Tian Yuen restaurant in Cloverdale on Tuesday, November 12, 2013. (Conner Jay/The Press Democrat) Tian Yuen Asian Cuisine Conner Jay — The House Special chow mein is served at Tian Yuen restaurant in Cloverdale. (Photo by Conner Jay)

Taco the Town

LA HACIENDA BAR & GRILL

La Hacienda serves big bowls of rich, chicken-based tortilla soup, soft tacos ($2.65-$3.99, depending on the meat) and combos of all sizes, including a chile relleno with rice, refried or whole beans, and salad for a cheap $7.75. Regular and super vegetarian or meat burritos (with 13 meat choices) are $6.85-$7.75. Unlimited chips and salsa, too.

17960 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-939-8226

CASTAÑEDA’S MARKETPLACE

The menu has all the usual suspects, but the delicious reality is huge portions of Mexican food the way it’s meant to be, based on fresh grilled whole chiles, handmade tortillas, pristine local beef and sparkling-fresh sauces such as chimichurri. Bust a very happy gut with the Burrozilla, a full pound of carne asada wrapped in two flour tortillas with rice, beans, pico de gallo, salsa, cheese, crema and guacamole. At $12.99, it feeds two.

8465 Old Redwood Highway, Windsor, 707-838-8820, visit on Facebook

Burrozillo from Casteneda Market in Windsor Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Burrozillo from Casteneda Market in Windsor. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

BELLY LEFT COAST KITCHEN & TAP ROOM

Usually, the tacos at this hip joint are three for $10. But on Taco Tuesday, they’re only $1 all day and night, with a choice of ground beef, chorizo, pulled pork or veggie street tacos (why choose, at that price? Get one of each). You’ll save on suds from 2 p.m. on, too.

523 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-526-5787, bellyleftcoastkitchen.com

MI TIERRA

Watch fresh tortillas being made on-site and savor an enormous, regional Mexican specialty molcajete: steak, prawns, chicken, mushrooms, grilled cactus, roasted chiles, a huge slab of queso fresco, onion, tomato and spicy broth, all served in a stone molcajete bowl ($20). It’s enough for two, and comes with rice, refried beans, avocado and those luscious tortillas, great for dunking into the broth.

2000 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-546-1777, mitierramex.com

Molcajete dish of steak, prawns, chicken, mushrooms, grilled cactus, roasted chiles, a huge slab of queso fresco, onion, tomato and spicy broth all served in a stone molcajete bowl from Mi Tierra in Santa Rosa Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Molcajete dish of steak, prawns, chicken, mushrooms, grilled cactus, roasted chiles, a huge slab of queso fresco, onion, tomato and spicy broth all served in a stone molcajete bowl from Mi Tierra in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Happy Hours

THE VILLA RESTAURANT

Others may try, but no one can beat The Villa’s old-school happy hour, 3-7:30 p.m. daily. Beer and wine are $3, well drinks $4, and there is a wide assortment of appetizers ($3-$8). Check out the fried calamari, soft polenta with meat sauce, and tortellini pesto. Those who don’t fill up on apps can order a half-portion of most entrees for less than $20.

3901 Montgomery Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-7755, thevillarestaurant.com

BRAVAS BAR DE TAPAS

You’ll think you’re in Barcelona when you hit happy hour at this Spaincomes- to-Healdsburg tapas spot. From 3-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, every small-plates item is $4.20 (Bravas’ street number and, perhaps coincidentally, code for pot), including goat cheese tostada, duck meatball bocadillos (tiny sandwiches), Serrano ham and Manchego cheese bocadillos, and cider-braised chorizo with padron peppers.(LM)

420 Center St., Healdsburg, 707-433-7700, starkrestaurants.com/bravas.html

Tortilla Espanola with Alioli from Chef Mark Stark at his new Bravas Bar de Tapas in Healdsburg. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat) — Tortilla Espanola with Alioli at Bravas Bar de Tapas in Healdsburg. (Photo by John Burgess)

STARK’S STEAK & SEAFOOD

Its lunch and dinner menus are not cheap-eats material, but there is no arguing the popularity and pricing of Stark’s happy hour, offered Monday through Saturday – yes, Saturday – from 3-6 p.m. A lively crowd enjoys drinks specials, including $2.50 Beefeater martinis on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, and several small-plates noshes. Raw oysters, tuna tartare tacos and truffle fries are $1.75, Moroccan chicken meatballs and prime rib banh mi sandwiches are $3.75, and mini burgers with Cheddar and bacon are $5.

521 Adams St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-5100, starkrestaurants.com/stark_steakhouse.html

ROSSO PIZZERIA & MOZZARELLA BAR

Rosso’s Petaluma location offers Magnum Mondays, featuring $4 glasses of wine poured from magnum bottles, and a happy hour menu offered 3-9 p.m. You can easily make a meal of the meatball sliders, featuring Rosso’s tender, garlic-laden orbs of deliciousness ($6), or the Caggiano sausage pizza ($8), fired in the wood oven until the crust is crisp and blistered.

151 Petaluma Blvd. S., Petaluma, 707-772-5177, rossopizzeria.com

Meat balls and pizza from Rosso in Petaluma Food shots for Cheap Eats section Chris Hardy — Meat ball sliders at Rosso’s in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Pub + Bar Dining

BARLEY AND HOPS TAVERN

The pub rocks with live music, local craft beers are on tap, and owners Noah and Mirjam Bolmer keep the entire menu a bargain, sending out fancy pot roast simmered in porter beer and figs over parsnip puree and sautéed chard, for $15. A Sloppy Joe ($13) delivers delicious nostalgia, with big, sloppy mouthfuls of Niman Ranch ground beef simmered in zesty tomato sauce, plopped on a toasted brioche bun and topped with fried yam strings, plus fries and pickle chips. Upgrade the fries with an avalanche of applewood bacon and Cheddar for $1.50.

3688 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, 707-874-9037, barleyandhops.happytables.com

JOHN ASH & CO. THE FRONT ROOM BAR + LOUNGE

You can get a beef filet in the main restaurant for $43, or you can relax in the lounge and indulge in Tips And Toast — beef filet tips, mushroom cream sauce and grilled ciabatta for $14. Set with a fireplace, the elegant space sparkles with other deals, such as roasted lamb ribs in pomegranate Pinot Noir barbecue sauce ($14) and oversized grilled fish tacos with slaw, cilantro cream and salsa ($11).

4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa, 707-527-7687, vintnersinn.com

PUB REPUBLIC

While the name “pub” typically conjures images of heavy, dark wood and nary a glimpse of the outside world, Pub Republic is bright and airy, with high ceilings and reclaimed wood accents. Among the menu offerings of elevated pub fare is an unexpected showstopper: Brussels sprouts tacos. For $11, you get two generously sized flour tortillas filled with caramelized Brussels sprouts, toasted almonds, avocado and a sprinkling of cheese.

3120 Lakeville Highway, Petaluma, 707-782-9090, pubrepublic.com

Brussel sprout tacos from Pub Republic in Petaluma. (Photo by Chris Hardy)

Family Values

FLAVOR BISTRO

Come for dinner on Farmhouse Wednesdays, when the kitchen sends out firstrate, family-style suppers with a glass of wine included, for a jaw-dropping $18.95. Dishes on a recent evening included chicken Parmigiana, creamy garlic potatoes, arugula pasta, winter vegetables, sautéed spinach, Blue Lake beans, heirloom tomato soup, organic romaine salad in lemon-Romano dressing, warm stone-oven bread with butter, and pear tart with Chantilly cream. Wow.

96 Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, 707-573-9600, flavorbistro.com

MOMBO’S PIZZA

It’s a deal almost too good to be true: The two-location Mombo’s Feed 4 deal for $19.99 is one large one-topping pizza, an order of wings and choice of either a large salad or a quart of soup. Calling all parents with kids.

880-B Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-528-3278; 560 Gravenstein Highway N., Sebastopol, 707-823-7492, mombospizza.com

EL BRINQUITO MARKET & MEAT

Newly painted hot red and yellow, the Iniguez family’s carniceria can be smelled blocks away, as moist, juicy chickens sizzle on the roadside grill on Saturdays and Sundays. Half and whole chickens are $7 and $14, respectively, and a family of four can share a whole chicken, beans, rice and tortillas for just $19.

7380 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-966-4912

ose Ojeda grills 400 chickens per weekend at El Brinquito Market & Meat in Sonoma. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat) — Jose Ojeda grills 400 chickens per weekend at El Brinquito Market & Meat in Sonoma. (Photo by John Burgess)

DRAKE’S FIRESIDE LOUNGE

Tucked next to the upscale Duck Club Restaurant, this charming hideaway offers a priceless setting, with a stone fireplace, outdoor fire pit and stunning ocean views. The seasonal menu comes from the same Duck chef, but with lower-priced, more laid-back options. Tuck into the meal-size grilled flatbread smothered in Marin French Brie cheese, watercress, roasted sweet peppers, hen of the woods mushrooms, smoked onions and Italian salsa verde ($12), or the hearty Occidental chicken sandwich of grilled herbed bird, mozzarella and pesto on house-made focaccia and a pile of garlic fries ($13).

103 Highway 1, Bodega Bay, 707-875-3525, duckclubrestaurant.com

WILLI’S SEAFOOD & RAW BAR

Small plates can mount up to a hefty tab, but smart choices deliver good value here. Penny-pinchers should steer clear of the $3-each oysters and clams, and share heartier dishes such as roasted beet salad with goat cheese mousse, spiced pecans and basil ($9.50); skewered marinated chicken with aji amarillo, mango mustard and toasted pine nuts ($10); Dean’s Salt & Pepper Baby Back Riblets ($11), and Willi’s French Fries with Laura Chenel Goat Cheese Ranch dipping sauce ($9.50). A party of four will dine luxuriously for approximately $10 each.

403 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-9191, starkrestaurants.com/willis_seafood.html

International Flavors

BISTRO 29

It seems like it has to be a typo: $29 for a four-course French meal Tuesday through Thursday, with just $11 more for wine pairings from the lengthy list of French and California labels. But it’s true, with the bistro’s changing prix-fixe menu offering lineups such as asparagus cream soup with bacon and buckwheat crumbs; Baby Gem lettuce salad with toasted hazelnuts, grapes and blue cheese; hanger steak with potatoes Lyonnaise, Dijon mustard and grilled spring onion, and dark chocolate mousse.

620 Fifth St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-2929, bistro29.com

DELHI BELLY

Relatively new to Sonoma, this Indian restaurant offers respectful service and fun decor, with umbrellas hanging from the ceiling for good luck.

Enjoy kale pagodas (three for $5), chicken mushroom soup ($7), coconut vegetable curry that generously feeds two ($12), panch dal lentils ($10) and tandoori chicken ($15), which can also be shared.

522 Broadway, Sonoma, 707-343-1003, delhibellybistro.com

Lamb Shank at Dehli Belly Indian Restaurant in Sonoma, California on 01/25/16. (Heather Irwin, Press Democrat). — Lamb Shank at Dehli Belly Indian Restaurant in Sonoma. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

YANNI’S SAUSAGE GRILL OF PENNGROVE

Red chile-apricot glaze … anise-citrus … feta-kalamata … lamb-tzatziki. These are what sausage dreams are made of, and they become mouthwatering reality thanks to the talents of chef-owners John and Francesca Vrattos. Beginning in 2010 with loukaniko, a Greek country sausage they made for friends, they’ve now built up a thriving palace to authentic sausage sandwiches that are filling and fabulous for $6.90-$8.50, including peppers on top.

10007 Main St., Penngrove, 707-795-7088, yannissausages.com

KING FALAFEL

With Greek and Middle Eastern restaurants few and far between in Sonoma, this small eatery fills a need. The gyro sandwich ($8.99) is stuffed with sliced beef, lamb or chicken, onions and tomatoes, and drizzled with cooling tzatziki sauce. The falafel plate ($9.99) includes five perfectly seasoned falafel (fried chickpea cakes), hummus, tabbouleh and pita bread.

100 Brown St., No. 150, Sebastopol, 707-824-4800, kingfalafelusa.com

WATER STREET BISTRO

Stephanie Rastetter’s French-inspired menu in her jewel-box restaurant features daily specials that make this place affordable. Entrees such as coq au vin and Moroccan pork and couscous are $12-$14 and include salad and Della Fattoria bread. There are also four daily soups, $4.50 for a cup and $6 for a bowl. (MAJ)

100 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, 707-763-9563, waterstreetbistro.com

Two toasted pecan waffle finish cooking at the Water Street Bistro in Petaluma. Shot on Thursday, December 28, 2006 for Spring Savor magazine. ( Press Democrat / Charlie Gesell ) Charlie Gesell — Two toasted pecan waffle finish cooking at the Water Street Bistro in Petaluma. ( Photo by Charlie Gesell)

BURTONZ BAKERY

Kiwis love their meat pies and sausage rolls, and authentic versions are available at this Windsor bakery and cafe. New Zealand native Warren Burton left the viticulture business to learn baking, and his breads and pastries are magic. But it’s the savory steak and potato, mushroom and goat cheese, and bacon and egg mini pies ($6) that have locals asking, “Where have you been all my life?” Sausage rolls are just $2.75, served with Wattie ketchup.

9076 Brooks Road S., Windsor, 707-687-5455, burtonzbakery.com

DIVEWALK CAFE

Banh mi sandwiches ($7), Hanoi tacos ($3) and sweet and savory crepes ($9$10) are among the bargains owners Lorene Reed and Marc Sloop sell from their yellow tent well off the Sonoma plaza. The banh mi is the savory star: pork or chicken topped with pickled daikon and carrots, cucumber, cilantro, jalapeño, hoisin and sriracha aioli. Satisfy a sweet tooth with the Brie + Fruit crepe with maple syrup.

19449 Riverside Drive, Sonoma, 707-334-3175, divewalkcafe.com

Brie + Fruit crepe served at Divewalk Cafe on Riverside Drive in Sonoma, Friday, July 10, 2015. (CRISTA JEREMIASON / The Press Democrat) Divewalk Cafe — Brie + Fruit crepe served at Divewalk Cafe on Riverside Drive in Sonoma. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Sweet Treats

LA MICHOACANA

Natural ice cream and paletas (ice cream bars) are made on-site by Teresita Fernandez from fresh fruit and include flavors such as coconut pineapple, mango, almond cappuccino and Mexican Neapolitan. Cones are $2-$5.50, paletas $2.50-$4.

18495 Sonoma Highway, Sonoma, 707-938-1773

ZAZU KITCHEN + FARM

Leave it to zazu’s Duskie Estes and John Stewart to incorporate their Black Pig Meat Co. bacon into an addictive treat. Their Rodeo Jax bacon caramel popcorn ($3.50 at the restaurant) is salty-sweet and crunchy, made with organically grown corn that is popped, lacquered in caramel and seasoned with salt made from applewood smoked bacon. It puts Karmelkorn to great shame.

The Barlow, 6770 McKinley St., No. 150, Sebastopol, 707-523-4814, zazukitchen.com

MOUSTACHE BAKED GOODS

Cupcakes may no longer be the dessert of the moment, but they will never go out of style in the floury hands of the Moustache crew. Best-sellers include The Butcher (maple-spice buttercream topped with a mini slice of bacon), The Outlaw (caramel-filled chocolate cake with sea salt) and The Local (gluten-free almond cake filled with house-made cherry jam). Just $3 each.

381 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-395-4111, moustachebakedgoods.com

LOCOCO’S CUCINA RUSTICA

LoCoco’s does cannoli proud, turning out classic versions as good as any found in New York or New Jersey. House-made, tube-shaped fried pastry shells are filled with sweetened ricotta, pistachios and orange zest, then dusted with powdered sugar. The first-bite crunch leads to a heavenly, creamy center. They’re well worth the $8.95 price for two cannoli.

117 Fourth St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-2227, lococos.net

Cannoli at LoCoco's Cucina Rustica, in Santa Rosa, Calif., on September 24, 2013. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat) — Cannoli at LoCoco’s Cucina Rustica, in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

22 Most Instagram-Worthy Spots in Sonoma County

December 2016

By Josephine Clements

selfie - 1 — Photography by Brennan Spark (www.brennanspark.com)

Sonoma County is filled with scenic hikes, breathtaking waterfront views, artistically presented food and drinks, and picturesque buildings begging for photo ops. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an Instagram addict, it’s a beautiful place to be and to snap away your day.

Here’s a selection of our favorite local Instagram-worthy spots — perfect for a backdrop or paired with a selfie. Did we miss one of your favorites? Share it with us on Instagram: instagram.com/sonomamag, @sonomamag!

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville
What could be a better background for your Instagram feed than a still life of majestic redwoods stretching toward the sky? On a quiet Sunday morning in these Sonoma County woods, you can hear the wind whispering through the trees, and then the clicks of smartphone cameras capturing the moment.

? A photo posted by Kaitlin Kerins (@kaitlin_kitch) on Apr 26, 2016 at 2:33pm PDT

The Russian River With hundreds of photos tagged “Russian River” on Instagram, the river has proved a popular destination for ‘grammers. Many continue to risk their phone’s life – precariously dangling over a kayak – to get a perfectly composed image of the river, the redwoods, and the blue skies.

I, I follow, I follow you #DeepSeaBaby #GoPro #RussianRiver A photo posted by Nicole Kruckmeyer (@nkruckmeyer) on May 23, 2015 at 10:44pm PDT

The Fremont Diner, Sonoma
This roadside diner is packed with picture-perfect pockets – vintage decor, rusted retro memorabilia, aqua paint tables and American comfort classics. Snap a shot of the “Greetings from Sonoma” mural outside, and you’ve got yourself a digital post card.

Breakfast with a view at @fremontdiner #minivacay #sonoma #winecountry

A photo posted by @_rachelstelter on Jul 22, 2016 at 12:59pm PDT

Petaluma Pumpkin Patch Looking to stage some cute photos of the kids that will knock the socks off of your fellow insta-Moms/Dads? Snap away at the Petaluma Pumpkin Patch while junior explores the hay bales, the corn maze and the oh-so-stunning sunflower field. The only photo op that could possibly rival a shot of your adorable offspring – the cute and cuddly baby farm animals.

squad A photo posted by Rebecca Skidgel (@rebeccaskidgel) on Oct 29, 2015 at 10:06am PDT

The Barlow, Sebastopol
If you build it (in corrugated metal) and add cool designs to it — Instagrammers will come. This trendy marketplace features a wide variety of artisan restaurants, breweries, tasting rooms, coffee shops, boutiques and galleries where you can capture the local makers in action.

Taste the rainbow ??#windgapwines #winesontap #terroirlife #roygbiv #skittles #thebarlow A photo posted by Wind Gap Wines (@windgapwines) on Aug 7, 2016 at 6:05pm PDT

Petaluma Historical Library & Museum This neoclassical style Carnegie Library is a local treasure. It features original fan-glass windows, interior wood panelling and columns, and the largest free-standing leaded glass dome in Northern California.

The historic Petaluma Library is a museum today, but still an exquisite structure #publiclibrary #freetoall #petaluma #libraryporn A photo posted by Cheyenne Walvatne (@wallvahtnee) on Jul 28, 2016 at 10:51am PDT

Paradise Ridge Winery Sculptures, Santa Rosa
This Kenwood winery, featuring a sculpture exhibit on the grounds, is the definition of Instagram bait. Guests are invited to wander the estate post tasting to snap photos of the winery’s works of art.

Duncans Landing, Bodega Bay These panoramic views of Sonoma Coast beaches and cliffs are a must-stop for a vacation/stay-cation picture. You’ll be handsomely rewarded in the form of Insta likes.

Standing watch… ???#pacific #duncanspoint #sonoma #sonomacounty #sonomacoast #seagulls #gulls #clouds #cloudporn #norcal #northerncalifornia #california #seabird #seascape #nature #outdoors #bodegabay #jenner #highway1 #pacificcoast #travel #wanderlust #mothernature #pachamama #ocean #travelgram #picturesque #seaside #explorecalifornia A photo posted by Nathan Stern (@ndstern) on Apr 4, 2016 at 4:21pm PDT

Tea Room Café, Petaluma
Looking to snap a trendy breakfast photo? This popular Petaluma spot serves up picture-perfect lattes. Don’t hesitate to get on your toes and hover over your food to get the best brunch shot for your feed.

Teams that breakfast together, stays together. A photo posted by Breakfast in SF (@breakfastinsf) on Apr 8, 2016 at 9:45am PDT

Screamin’ Mimi’s, Sebastopol If you ever need an excuse for ice cream indulgence, the photogenic scoops at Screamin’ Mimi’s will more than suffice. You’ll need to order all the flavors to capture the full color palette — from pistachio to rose. The cute ice cream parlor décor frames your background.

haaaaappppy national ice cream day ladies n’ gents ? A photo posted by Arianna Maysonave (@arimays) on Jul 17, 2016 at 9:37pm PDT

Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy, Bodega Bay
It’s hard to miss the bright pink and white striped wall outside this taffy shop in Bodega Bay. Grab a friend and a bag of your favorite green apple, peppermint, or lemon taffies and have fun posing.

Happy birthday Stacy!! ? A photo posted by Sophia Llamas (@sophilla) on Jul 25, 2016 at 6:55pm PDT

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Santa Rosa Anywhere you look here, there is another photo opportunity: trees as far as the eye can see, flowing waterfalls, lush meadows along the trails and grounds covered with wildflowers. The summer months are ideal for clear and sunny shots of this most photogenic of parks.

True serenity can only be found in certain places. Thanks for coming @brandonstach and thanks @alexisbmills for sharing this place. #waterfall #sugarloaf #wanderlust A photo posted by Brennan Spark (@brennanspark) on Apr 6, 2016 at 1:45pm PDT

Helen Putnam Park, Petaluma
Prime poppy season in this Petaluma park is paradise. Find the perfect angle as the sun hits the wildflowers. You’ll be rewarded with a lot of share-love.

Hiked by a field of poppies. #spring #petaluma #sonomacounty #photooftheday #getoutside A photo posted by @jamiefratt on Apr 18, 2016 at 4:47pm PDT

Desserts at Madrona Manor, Healdsburg The desserts at this posh Healdsburg B&B hit the sweet spot. The confectionary masterpieces, prepared by award-winning pastry chef Emmanuel “Manny” Fimbrez, will stand the test of Instagramming time.

@sweetfable the creator throwback # #dessert #madronamanor #winecountry #foodie #healdsburg #calilife #chef #pastrychef #sonomacounty A photo posted by Daniel Medina (@dj_duck_d) on Jun 27, 2016 at 11:03pm PDT

St. Teresa of Avila AKA “The Birds Church,” Bodega
While you may not be the first person caught posing, by humorously cowering from the birds overhead, your old school black and white filter shot is sure to become the star of your Instagram account.

_we’re chasing birds today. ⛪️? #thebirds #alfredhitchcock #hitchcock #bodegabay A photo posted by Mariana Laviaguerre (@marilaviaguerre) on Apr 23, 2016 at 3:09pm PDT

Wishbone, Petaluma Heart-shaped latte art never seems to go out of style on Instagram — and this restaurant is a good spot for continuing that trend. The Wishbone coffee menu includes the “El Toro Rojo Spicy Mexican Mocha” and a “Beekeeper Lavender Latte,” both almost too pretty to drink.

Always the most photogenic food here. ☕️ A photo posted by Alex Foreman (@alxforeman) on May 30, 2015 at 12:16pm PDT

SHED, Healdsburg
SHED, a local market, restaurant, café, and fermentation bar all in one, is Christmas morning for Instagrammers. Its sleek wood design, fresh produce, Japanese/Scandinavian-style utensils, and colorful flowers led one photographer to comment “I’m resisting the urge to Instagram the entire place.”

Goat Rock Beach, Jenner This is one of the most picturesque spots on the Sonoma Coast. With steep cliffs overlooking turquoise waters and a wide sandy beach — you don’t even need an eye for photography to appreciate the goodness of this scenery.

Weekend dreamin’ on this sunny hump day ? A photo posted by Allegra Krasznekewicz (@allegrakraz) on Aug 3, 2016 at 1:51pm PDT

River’s End Restaurant, Jenner
This Jenner restaurant not only features fabulous food and drinks, it also boasts a deck with views of the Sonoma Coast. Snap a sunset-lit shot of your champagne glass or a panorama of the coastal scenery, and you’ve hit Insta gold.

Sunset A photo posted by Steffan (@elravizza) on Sep 19, 2015 at 8:56pm PDT

Sandstone Hills at Salt Point State Park The sedimentary sandstone rocks in this state park contrast beautifully against bright blue skies. Snap away on 20 miles of hiking trails with panoramic Pacific Ocean views.

“There is science, logic, reason; there is thought verified by experience. And then there is California.” – Edward Abbey Well put sir, well put. | Salt Point State Park, Sonoma Coast, California A photo posted by Rachid Dahnoun (@rachidphoto) on Jul 28, 2016 at 2:29pm PDT

Beltane Ranch House, Glen Ellen
The bright yellow and white house at historic Beltane Ranch has been around since 1892, but it only seems to get better with every year. Swirl like a Southern Belle on the wrap-around porch while snapping selfies sans regret – like Scarlett O’Hara, you can think about it tomorrow.

There are lots of really beautiful historic homes in Sonoma Valley but, @beltaneranch is one of the most charming and authentic. #whencanimovein #winecountry #sonomacounty #sonomavalley #sonoma A photo posted by Michelle Lacy (@sonomalacy) on Jun 11, 2016 at 9:37pm PDT

Duke’s Spirited Cocktails, Healdsburg It is hard to decide whether to drink these farm-to-glass works of art, or frame them. Thankfully, you can do both. No filter is necessary when the cocktails are this good looking.

The new hot spot in town :: @dukeshealdsburg They have a great atmosphere with awesome people and spectacular beverages! Cheer! ?And check it out! In #Healdsburg . . . #cheers #dukeshealdsburg #healdsburgsocial #flossyonawhim #libations #wine #winecountry #beverages #bar #hotspot #nightout #photography #love #smile #drink #bitters #flower #tabletop A photo posted by Healdsburg Social (@healdsburgsocial) on Jul 8, 2016 at 8:56am PDT

And finally, a quick Napa snap:

Domaine Carneros Villa and Vineyards
Villa Carneros is the Versaille of Wine Country where tourists and locals alike flock to sip classic vintage Brut Cuvée – then pause briefly to pose in the parterre-style gardens in front of the chateau.

Good to be home? @mburmanatx #champagne #chateaustyle #napa #california A photo posted by Sheridan Burman (@sheridan_burman) on Aug 13, 2016 at 11:16am PDT

Snapchat Lists Local Beignets Among Top 10 In The Country

December 2016

By Josephine Clements

beignets - 1 — Valentine’s Beignets at The Parish Café in Healdsburg.

Social media has been buzzing about beignets ever since Kim Kardashian went all the way to New Orleans’ Café Du Monde to satisfy her pregnancy pastry cravings. Last week, Snapchat posted an article listing the top 10 restaurants across the United States serving up the delicious Creole fried pastries covered in powdered sugar. Among the lucky ten was Healdsburg’s The Parish Café!

beignets - 1 (1) — Our serving of beignets at The Parish Café in Healdsburg. (Photo by Josephine Clements)

As soon as we saw the Snapchat article, we headed to Healdsburg for a beignet bite. The Snapchat story, which also mentioned Homage in San Francisco and Sidecar Bakery in Springfield MA, gave credit to The Parish Café chef and owner Rob Lippincott, a New Orleans native and a former charter boat captain. Lippincott sure knows what he is doing with the dough, his fantastic fried bits stand out from the beignet crowd not only in taste but also in size and, best of all, at five dollars for a serving of three, these beignets won’t break the bank. Pair these sweet treats with a chicory coffee on the Parish patio – this is a dessert that will never disappoint.

Rob Lippincott, owner of The Parish Cafe in Healdsburg. (Christopher Chung/ — Rob Lippincott, owner of The Parish Cafe in Healdsburg. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

If you’re a North Bay beignet connoisseur, you should also take a bite on Jackson’s Bar and Oven’s skinny and tall beignets (served with chocolate, vanilla anglaise, and a fresh raspberry sauce), the Boon Fly Cafe’s donuts, The Hummingbird’s beignets, Bouchon Bakery donuts, and Bistro 29’s Honey Glazed Beignets with summer berries and whipped cream.

Beignets served with chocolate and raspberry sauce and a vanilla crme anglaise at JacksonÕs Bar and Oven in Railroad Square. July 22, 2010. (Photo: Erik Castro/for Santa Rosa Magazine) — Beignets served with chocolate and raspberry sauce and a vanilla creme anglaise at Jackson’s Bar and Oven in Railroad Square. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Charlie Gesell/Press Democrat One of the "Five Bucks for the Road" offerings at the Boon Fly Cafe is the "Baker's Dozen Homemade Boon Fly Donuts" served hot and fresh. Charlie Gesell — Baker’s Dozen Homemade Boon Fly Donuts at Boon Fly Cafe. (Photo by Charlie Gesell)

Best Bars with Games in Sonoma County

December 2016

By Sofia Englund & Estefany Gonzalez

Whether you feel a sudden urge to take on your pals at pool or practice your ping pong, these Sonoma County bars do their very best to help you quench your thirst for some competition.

Toad in the Hole, Santa Rosa: Darts & Quiz Night

While the US medal count exceeded all countries in Rio, the UK brings home the gold in knowing how to set the stage for friendly competitions at boardgames, darts, skittles, billiards and cards in their local living rooms — the pubs. This Santa Rosa English pub stays true to British tradition with Darts Night on the last Wednesday of the month and Quiz Night (British for “trivia”) on the first Wednesday of the month. Happy Hour is Monday – Friday & Sunday 4-6 p.m. (1$ off domestic beers, $0.50 – $0.75 off imported beers $3 off all fishes and chips).

116 5th St,, Santa Rosa, 707-544-8623, thetoadpub.com

Christina and Mike Velzo, both from Chicago, playing Rummikub, one of the many games available at Bergamot Alley Bar & Wine Merchants in Healdsburg. February 24, 2014. (Photo: Erik Castro/for The Press Democrat) — Christina and Mike Velzo, both from Chicago, playing Rummikub, one of the many games available at Bergamot Alley Bar & Wine Merchants in Healdsburg. (Photo by Erik Castro)

Bergamot Alley, Healdsburg: Boardgames, Ping Pong & Trivia Nights

From themed trivia nights to ping pong tournaments, the shenanigans-o-meter hits the roof at this hip Healdsburg restaurant. Other pertinent perks: fine wine and bubbles, crafty beers, stickies, sherry and sake, good eats, dance parties, a great vibe and, during summer, live music on Tuesdays.

328 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg, 707-433-8720, bergamotalley.com

The Round Robin, Santa Rosa: Pie-Eyed Pool

“The Dirty Bird” (as most locals like to call this Santa Rosa dive bar) is best after a drink — or five. Within walking distance from many downtown bars, this is a popular last stop on a night out. There’s affordable drinks, two big communal pool tables at the center of the bar, a jukebox stacked with classics and a variety of happy hour specials throughout the week. Who said rough around the edges can’t be fun?

616 Mendocino Ave., Santa Rosa, 707-575-1354, facebook.com/Round-Robin

A friendly game of pool at the Round Robin in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Estefany Gonzalez) — A friendly game of pool at The Round Robin in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Estefany Gonzalez)

Beyond the Glory, Petaluma: Retro Arcade Games

For the sports enthusiast, this popular Petaluma restaurant and bar has a definite draw: how about nineteen 42-inch to 55-inch LCD TVs and two 100-inch projection screens that carry the NFL Ticket, MLB Package, NHL Center Ice, and the NBA Full Court? If that’s not enough to get your game fix, there’s a room in the back equipped with pinball machines and retro arcade games.

1371 N. McDowell Blvd. #130, Petaluma, 707-775-3775, btgpetaluma.com

BS_070515_CUP5_739346 — If 20 plus big screen TVs are not enough to get your game fix, Beyond the Glory in Petaluma also has a room in the back equipped with pinball machines and retro arcade games. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Brew, Santa Rosa: Boardgames & Trivia

There’s more to Brew than craft beers and coffee. The living room-like environment makes this a popular place for locals looking to get some work done or unwind after a long day at work. Brew provides a wide variety of boardgames, local beers, cider and wine — and a pour over with a punch that will keep you on your toes for Tuesday night trivia. There’s also a double daily happy hour with $1 off all draft beer and wine between 4-6 p.m. and 8-10 p.m.

555 Healdsburg Ave. Santa Rosa, 707-303-7372, brewcoffeeandbeer.com

There's more to brew than coffee and beer - there's also plenty of boardgames and Tuesday Night trivia. (Photo by Heather Irwin) — There’s more to Brew than coffee and beer – like plenty of boardgames and Tuesday night trivia. (Photo by Heather Irwin)

El Verano Inn, Sonoma: Karaoke & Pool

This 1887 Sonoma roadhouse still rocks in the ‘00s with sports on the big screen, pool, live performances, karaoke nights and lingerie shows. You can even practice your best moves on the brass pole! Gather a group of friends — or make some new ones — shoot some pool or see who can do “My Way” the best way.

705 Laurel Ave., El Verano, 707-935-0611, elveranoinn.com

elverano - 1 (1) — Shoot some pool or see who can do “My Way” the best way at historic roadhouse El Verano Inn. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Whiskey Tip, Santa Rosa: Cornhole, Giant Jenga, Shuffleboard & Billiards

Nothing pairs better with bourbon and BBQ than a game of cornhole — Whiskey Tip in Santa Rosa has it all. The large patio in the back has three cornhole games and picnic tables to relax by between bean bag throws. There’s also shuffleboard and billiards for variety, or why not try your whiskey-steadied hand at giant Jenga. For the less competitive, there are outdoor heaters and lots of hot entertainment (including burlesque) to keep you warm.

1910 Sebastopol Road, Santa Rosa, 707-843-5535, whiskeytipsr.com

Friar Tucks Pub, Cotati: Beer Pong & Pub Quiz

This popular SSU student hangout is a proud pastiche pub: from the “Irish Guard” behind the bar to the replica throne in the billiards room, Friar Tucks is decorated with enough Irish and Scottish memorabilia to make the stalwart, staff-wielding monk proud. This is also the birthplace of the “Cotati crawl,” the culmination of the college $1 draft night. On Tuesday nights, there’s a free double elimination beer pong tournament and pub trivia.

8201 Old Redwood Highway, Cotati, 707-792-9847, friartuckspub.com

An Irish Guards uniform tunic and other Irish-themed decorations stand above the beer tap during a football game between the Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons at Friar Tucks Pub in Cotati, California on Thursday, August 25, 2016. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat) — An “Irish Guard” guards the bar at Friar Tucks Pub in Cotati. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

Old Main Street Saloon, Sebastopol: Trainspotting & Pool

This Sebastopol dive bar is home away from home for loyal locals. While a tiny train chugs around the ceiling, below, on pristine tables, pool balls roll and shuffle board discs clack. There is of course a plentiful variety of beer on tap.

153 N. Main St., Sebastopol, 707-829-1172, facebook.com/Old-Main-Street

Third Street Ale Works, Santa Rosa: Pool

There’s a lot of fun on tap at this Santa Rosa brewery. On Tuesdays, when pints and “brats” (bratwurst sausages) are only $2.50, the outdoor patio fills up with local beer lovers and regulars. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere while playing a game of pool. The small-bite and $3 pint Happy Hour (3-6 p.m.) Monday through Saturday also offers plenty of pool opportunity.

610 3rd St., Santa Rosa, 707-523-3060, thirdstreetaleworks.com

Third Street Aleworks is popular on Tuesday nights due to their specials in downtown Santa Rosa, August 17, 2010. — From the beers to the “brats’ and the pool, there’s a lot of fun on tap at Third Street Aleworks. (Photo by Crista Jeremiason)

Underwood, Graton: Bocce Ball

In the mood for some classy competitive socializing? Put on your wide-brimmed hat, your Holly Golightly glasses to play some bocce ball, craft cocktail in hand, at Underwood Bar & Bistro. The “Tequila Mockingbird,” with fresh grapefruit juice, or the “Cucumber Julep,” a gin drink with cucumbers and ginger beer, will be sure to transport you, in a snap, to Holly’s Upper East Side.

9113 Graton Road, Graton, 707-823-7023, underwoodgraton.com

The bar at Underwood Bar & Bistro, where you can play bocce in the back. (Photo by Christopher Chung)

Local Barrel, Santa Rosa: Family Guy Pinball, Boardgames & Shuffleboard

Santa Rosa’s newest taproom is well equipped for drinks and games: the venue’s Family Guy pinball machine, shuffleboard table and boardgames make it a stomping ground for your competitive edge. And for music aficionados, there are free live music acts on Sundays. This month’s lineup includes Americana badass Sally Haggard, eight-string guitarist Nate Lopez and rockabilly act Boyd’s Bash. Happy Hour is 4-6 p.m.

490 Mendocino Ave. #104, Santa Rosa, facebook.com/TheLocalBarrel

Shuffleboard at Local Barrel in Santa Rosa. (Photo by Estefany Gonzalez)

Mario & John’s Tavern, Petaluma: Shuffleboard & Pool

At this neighborhood cocktail bar and tavern, tucked away in the outskirts of downtown Petaluma, the laid back vibe, low ambient lighting and friendly bartenders create a great space for a relaxed game of shuffleboard or pool. The cocktails, all under $10, sparkle with the creativity their names suggest — try a “T’amaro Never Dies” or a “Friendship Bracelet.” The tavern is open Monday – Sunday, 1 p.m. to 2 a.m.

428 East D. St., Petaluma, 707-981-7661, facebook.com/MarioandJohnsTavern

Windsor Bowling Center: Disco Bowling

This bowling alley rolls a strike with a bar feel during its Monday, Friday and Saturday Night Rock n’ Glow. On these nights, between 5 and 10 p.m., bowling is only $10 per person (shoes included) and there’s a wide variety of beer, wine and spirits served.

8801 Conde Lane, Windsor, 707-837-9889, windsorbowl.com

Get your bowling-disco shoes on for Rock n’ Glow at Windsor Bowling Center. (Photo by Alvin Jornada)

Palooza, Kenwood: Ping Pong Tournaments, Triva, Pool, Giant Jenga & Darts

Palooza restaurant in Kenwood serves up a lot of family (and dog) friendly fun – with a side of local craft beers and wines, gastro pub grub and wood fired pizzas. You can bring your dog on the patio, participate in ping pong tournaments on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m. and trivia nights on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., shoot some pool, or try your hand at giant Jenga and darts.

8910 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-4000, paloozafresh.com

Palooza Gastropub & Wine Bar in Kenwood hosts ping pong tournaments on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m. (Photo Courtesy: Palooza)

Sweet Spot Pub & Grill, Santa Rosa: Pac-Man

Before Pokémon Go there was Pac-Man. If you happen to feel some old school nostalgia for the pre-digital age, Sweet Spot is your place. Go tripping back to the 90s while trying out some Brazilian empanaditas or some classic pub grub. There’s also a shuffleboard table and big screen TVs.

619 4th St., Santa Rosa, 707-528-7566, sweetspotpub.com

Sweet Spot in Santa Rosa is the spot to get your soccer fix, or — Get your sports fix at Sweet Spot in Santa Rosa, or take a trip back to the 90s with some Pac-Man. (Photo by Beth Schlanker)

Speaking of Pokémon — if there are local Pokémon Go pub/bar crawls happening, we’d like to know!