Matanzas Creek Winery
A picturesque winery known for its stunning lavender gardens, personalized wine tastings, and serene vineyard setting in Sonoma County.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak lavender bloom
Matanzas Creek Winery
Best Time
Peak lavender bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque winery known for its stunning lavender gardens, personalized wine tastings, and serene vineyard setting in Sonoma County.
"Absolutely amazing experience! The most beautiful grounds and so much to see with the lavender and amazing views."
Reserve Your Tasting Slot
Book your wine tasting in advance, especially for weekends, to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Visit During Lavender Season
Experience the stunning lavender gardens in full bloom from mid-June to early July. :purple_heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lavender Gardens
Winery Grounds
Wander through fragrant fields of purple lavender, especially vibrant from mid-June to early July.
Wine Tasting Experience
Tasting Room & Patio
Enjoy personalized wine tastings with knowledgeable guides, featuring a variety of estate wines.
Scenic Grounds & Views
Throughout the Winery
Soak in the beautiful vineyard landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque views.
Bocce Court
Outdoor Area
Challenge friends or family to a game of bocce amidst the beautiful winery setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tasting in Advance
Timing is Everything for Lavender
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Your Tasting Slot
Book your wine tasting in advance, especially for weekends, to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Visit During Lavender Season
Experience the stunning lavender gardens in full bloom from mid-June to early July.
Ask About Food Pairings
Inquire about charcuterie or food options when booking, as availability can vary. :cheese_wedge:
Explore the Grounds
Take time to stroll the beautiful grounds and enjoy the scenic views beyond the tasting. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Your Tasting Slot
Book your wine tasting in advance, especially for weekends, to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Visit During Lavender Season
Experience the stunning lavender gardens in full bloom from mid-June to early July.
Ask About Food Pairings
Inquire about charcuterie or food options when booking, as availability can vary. :cheese_wedge:
Explore the Grounds
Take time to stroll the beautiful grounds and enjoy the scenic views beyond the tasting. :camerawithflash:
Consider a Merlot Tasting
In October, they offer special Merlot-focused tastings to explore the varietal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Matanzas Creek Winery for its breathtaking grounds, particularly the seasonal lavender fields, and its highly personalized and educational wine tasting experiences. The knowledgeable staff and beautiful scenery contribute to a memorable visit, though some guests have noted inconsistencies in service and food availability if not booked in advance.
"Our experience here was incredible. We reserved a tasting and it was easily the best one we've had. Our tasting guide made the experience very personal and memorable. We felt very welcome, and the grounds were absolutely gorgeous. I would highly recommend this to anyone in the region. Plus, the wine was incredible, the Journey Chardonnay, and it had the taste of a delightful buttery croissant."
Steven Treibly
"We visited Matanzas Creek Nov 19, 2024 to pick up our wine shipment. It's one of the most beautiful vineyards, we enjoy coming here for the lavender garden and the wine tasting."
Carl Wong
"Absolutely amazing experience! I called earlier in the day to see if they had room for walk-in’s and they got us in at the start of the day. We had a great time with Brad and tasting so many different varietals and such a great education on the region, even picked a few wines to try catered to our preferences. Also, the most beautiful grounds and so much to see with the lavender and amazing views. Got a few wines sent to our home, totally worth it. Also the bocce was fun too!"
Breanna Northrup
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matanzas Creek Winery is located in Santa Rosa, California. Driving is the most common way to reach the winery, offering scenic routes through Sonoma County.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for visitors at the winery.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can be used, but availability might be less frequent in this more rural setting. It's advisable to check service availability in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to ensure you can secure a tasting slot. While walk-ins might be accommodated, it's not guaranteed.
Matanzas Creek Winery is generally open for tastings from Monday through Thursday, 11:00 am to 3:30 pm, and Friday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.
A standard wine tasting typically costs around $35 per person, which includes several pours of their estate wines.
While the lavender gardens are a major attraction, they are typically accessed as part of the winery experience, often included with a tasting reservation.
Yes, Matanzas Creek Winery sometimes hosts special events, such as Merlot Month tastings in October, offering a deep dive into specific varietals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond wine tasting, you can explore the beautiful lavender gardens (seasonal), enjoy the scenic grounds, play bocce, and visit the gift shop.
Information regarding pet policies can vary. It's advisable to contact the winery directly to confirm if dogs are permitted on the grounds.
Yes, Matanzas Creek Winery has a gift shop where you can purchase wine and other items.
They offer a range of wines including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, among others.
Outside food policies can vary. Some reviews suggest that charcuterie boards are reservation-only, so it's best to confirm directly with the winery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While they don't have a full restaurant, they may offer charcuterie boards, but these are often reservation-only. It's crucial to inquire about food availability when booking your tasting.
Policies on outside food can differ. It's recommended to contact the winery directly to clarify their picnic policy before your visit.
If available and reserved, charcuterie boards are an option. Otherwise, you might need to plan for dining before or after your visit at nearby restaurants in Santa Rosa.
📸 📸 Photography
The lavender fields (seasonal), the vineyard vistas, and the charming winery architecture offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially to capture the beautiful scenery and your tasting experience.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – often provide the most beautiful light for landscape and portrait photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to book your tasting in advance and inquire about any specific family-friendly policies or amenities. Bringing snacks or confirming food availability beforehand is also a good idea, as dining options might be limited.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a tasting during the golden hour for breathtaking sunset views, or plan your visit during the fall foliage for added romantic scenery.
The option to play bocce together adds a fun, shared activity to your visit. 🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to try their highly-regarded Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Lavender Gardens
Visitors can stroll through the rows, breathing in the calming aroma and capturing stunning photographs. While the lavender is seasonal, its presence contributes to the winery's overall serene and picturesque atmosphere. Even outside of peak bloom, the grounds offer beautiful scenery, making it a delightful place to visit year-round.
Pro-tip: If you're visiting specifically for the lavender, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and capture the best light for your photos.
Crafting Your Wine Tasting Experience
+2 The staff, like their concierge Robin, are known for being welcoming and knowledgeable, guiding guests through the nuances of each wine. Many visitors highlight the personalized attention they receive during tastings, with guides catering to individual preferences and providing insights into the Sonoma region.
For those looking to deepen their appreciation, consider inquiring about special tastings, such as the Merlot Month event in October, which offers a comprehensive exploration of this varietal across different vintages and regions.
This allows for a more focused and educational journey into the world of wine. Beyond the Vines: Activities and Ambiance
The winery's scenic grounds are a significant draw, with rolling hills and picturesque views that create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
This serene environment makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking in the California wine country charm. In addition to the natural beauty and activities, the winery also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase their favorite wines and other mementos.
Social
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