Tag: tasting rooms

It's not the easiest thing in the world to produce great wine. In fact, it's as much art as it is science. These three California wineries have embraced the challenge and not only produce spectacular wines, but offer accessible environments for visitors to enjoy them in.

Steve Ledson, fifth generation farmer, winemaker, and owner of Ledson Winery & Vineyards in Kenwood, and Ledson Hotel & Centre du Vin in Sonoma, has an uncanny knack for realizing his visions. When he was 13, his first soapbox derby car won the prize for its construction. He grew up and founded Ledson Construction in the heart of Sonoma Valley wine country. He pursued a successful career, but with winegrowing in his blood, it’s no surprise that Steve wanted to plant his own vineyard. He purchased a 21-acre property, planted 17 acres to Merlot, and started building a house for his family.

Just 35 miles east of San Francisco, Livermore Valley wine country is very easy to get to, and when you arrive, the wineries are easy to find. We’ve scouted around and assembled this list of 10 great Livermore Valley tasting rooms to visit. Some are brand new, while others have been around for a century or more. Since not all are open daily, we recommend that you check their websites as you plan your itinerary.

A landmark and storied gathering place for the local community and visitors alike, the Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center offers a luxury hotel, expansive modern conference center, six on-site wine tasting rooms, art gallery, and a nationally recognized gourmet restaurant and wine lounge, in downtown Walla Walla, Washington.