Five Spring White Wines to Enjoy in Sonoma County

This time of year is a conundrum. We have one muddy shoe in the rainy season, while the other is tap dancing under sun-kissed skies. We don’t dare leave our jackets in the hall closet … or do we? Our palates are just as confused but, in the end, can’t resist the urge to chase […]
Slicing beef brisket at the Cochon Volant BBQ Smoke House in Sonoma. (John Burgess / The Press Democrat)

Pig out at Sonoma’s new Cochon Volant

The metal flying pig sculpture soaring atop the roof of Cochon Volant BBQ Smokehouse in Sonoma promises pork, as does the name Cochon, which is French for “pig.” And certainly that succulent meat is a hallmark of this friendly little eatery from chef-owner Rob Larman. If the art piece from Glen Ellen talent Bryan Tedrick […]
Stephanie Holmes, left, Emmett Hanlon and Judy Holmes walk along a trail in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, in Guerneville, on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

Trail of the Week: Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Wintertime visitors to Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve in Guerneville are as likely to spot colorful galoshes as hiking boots as they trek along the family-friendly trails that wind among the towering redwoods within this majestic state park. Although several moderate and strenuous trails can challenge more advanced hikers within the 805-acre reserve, families with toddlers […]
Russian River Brewing Company's Vinnie Cilurzo, with wife Natalie, is a semifinalist for Outstanding Wine, Spirits or Beer Professional in the James Beard Foundation Awards.

2016 James Beard Award Semifinalists Announced

Two Sonoma County men were among semifinalists announced Wednesday for the James Beard Foundation’s 2016 restaurant and chef awards. Russian River Brewing Co.’s Vinnie Cilurzo of Santa Rosa and Littorai Wines’ Ted Lemon of Sebastopol were among the 20 making the cut for Outstanding Wine, Spirits or Beer Professional. About two dozen Bay Area restaurants […]
On Saturday and Sunday, fancy felines will strut their stuff at a cat show being held at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds. (Christopher Chung/ The Press Democrat)

Things to Do in Sonoma County This Week

  Written by Crissi Langwell and Dan Taylor for the Press Democrat. Looking for some fun this weekend? Here’s what you have to look forward to. This Saturday, amateur to professional builders will construct elaborate structures out of donated cans of food at the annual Canstruction event at Coddingtown. Plus, all weekend long is the […]
The 50's are back in style at the Santa Rosa Barber Shop. Owner Eric Gardea runs pomade through the hair of Cody Garzini. (JOHN BURGESS / The Press Democrat)

The Barber is Back in Sonoma County

Men are flooding back to barbershops, lured by the prospect of a clipper cut and beard trim in the company of other men. Changing hairstyles have provided some of the fuel. Salon-driven ‘70s feathered hair styles and ‘80s mullets have been replaced by the fades and pompadours that are the specialty of old-school barbers, delivered […]
Sonoma County Regional Parks allows leashed (six feet or less) and licensed dogs at all parks. Keep clicking through the gallery to see where else you can take your dog in Sonoma County.

Guide to Dog-Friendly Places in Sonoma County

Love to explore and travel, but don’t know if the pup can go, too? See the gallery above for different dog-friendly spots in Sonoma County with four sections: beaches and parks, shopping, wineries and hotels and inns. Did we miss any places? Let us know in the comments.

Shopping: Creative Finds for Sonoma County

The holidays are over and a new year looms. If your resolutions include cooking more, taking care of yourself, being more creative or simply enjoying the Wine Country life, here are some ideas for achieving your goals. Mealtime Salt of the Earth Ooh, Mommy! This Umami Sea Salt, flavored with black garlic and shiitake mushrooms, […]
Cinnamon French toast made from Village Bakery brioche topped with butter, fresh whipped cream, organic raspberries and real maple syrup with sparkling wine and a cappuccino at Estero Cafe in Valley Ford. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

3 Valentine’s Day Brunch Recipes from Sonoma County Chefs

This Sunday, instead of going out for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, you can treat your sweet babboo to something a little different: an intimate breakfast in bed, complete with fresh squeezed juice and coffee. And, if you take the time to source your ingredients from local farms and producers you’ll get points for the […]