Following winter rains, mustard flowers blanket vineyards and valleys across Sonoma County in vibrant yellow, adding a seasonal splash of color to the landscape and to countless Instagram feeds.
If you’d like to take in the scenery or capture it with a camera or smartphone, here are several public spots known for mustard flower views. In true Sonoma style, we’ve also noted nearby places to stop for a bite or a glass of wine.
As always, be mindful of plants and wildlife and respectful of private property. No trespassing.
Alexander Valley
Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley abounds with mustard flowers in late winter and early spring. Just after turning from Alexander Valley Road onto Highway 128, both sides of the road are lined with fields of bright yellow flowers.
Sonoma Valley
The iconic “mustard flower hill” at B.R. Cohn Winery turns yellow and white each spring, creating a striking view along Highway 12 in Sonoma Valley. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road while passing. Stop in afterward for a glass of Chardonnay. 15000 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen, 707-938-4064, brcohn.com
Mustard flowers also surround Kenwood’s Kunde Family Winery in February and March. Afterward, head to Palooza Gastropub for craft beer and pub fare on its spacious patio. 9825 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, 707-833-5501, kunde.com
Santa Rosa and Russian River Valley
The Joe Rodota Regional Trail, which runs between downtown Santa Rosa and Sebastopol, borders mustard fields in late winter and early spring. It’s a popular route for cyclists and walkers. Note that the properties bordering the trail are private. Ride the trail to Sebastopol and stop at The Barlow for a snack or drink.
At Paradise Ridge Winery, outdoor sculptures are often framed by mustard blooms. Visitors can enjoy wine and small bites on the veranda overlooking the vineyards. 4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive, Santa Rosa, 707-528-9463, prwinery.com
Imwalle Gardens, a small family-run market on Third Street in Santa Rosa, is surrounded by homes and, during spring, fields of mustard flowers. Pick up picnic supplies or flower starters for your garden, but remember that the surrounding fields are private property. 685 W. Third St., Santa Rosa, 707-546-0279, facebook.com/p/Imwalle-Gardens-100057055376943
Another viewing spot is the Laguna Environmental Center, off Occidental Road near Sebastopol. During heavy rains, the area tends to flood, but across the street from the Laguna de Santa Rosa, the mustard flowers shine brightly. The mustard fields surrounding the center are private property and fenced with barbed wire. Viewing the flowers is permissible, but public entry is not. 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, 707-527-9277, lagunadesantarosa.org
After admiring the blooms, head to Balletto Vineyards for a glass of sparkling Brut rosé on the patio.
Carneros Valley
Carneros Valley has a cooler climate than much of Sonoma County, ideal for both Pinot Noir and mustard flowers. One of the best vantage points is the terrace at Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards, where visitors can sip sparkling wines and enjoy Spanish-style tapas while overlooking mustard-covered vineyards. 23555 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 707-933-1986, gloriaferrer.com
Petaluma Gap and Sonoma Coast
For a scenic drive, head toward Dillon Beach on the Sonoma Coast. Along Tomales Road near Petaluma, rolling countryside is dotted with dairy farms and mustard flowers.
Before heading to the ocean, stop in downtown Petaluma at Petaluma Creamery (711 Western Ave.) to pick up some Spring Hill cheese curds.
Dry Creek Valley
West Dry Creek Valley Road offers a quieter, more intimate drive than its parallel, Dry Creek Valley Road. In late winter and early spring, mustard flowers brighten the roadside, and lighter traffic makes it a pleasant route for cyclists.
Stop by Quivira Vineyards & Winery to taste wine and learn about pollination in the winery’s organic gardens. Continue to Martorana Family Winery & Vineyards for a glass of Zinfandel, or head to Mounts Family Winery for sweeping valley views paired with a pour of Grenache.
Looking for more spring flowers in Sonoma County? Check out where the season’s lupines are painting the county a vibrant purple.
