Exploring Central Sonoma: Wine Country’s Hidden Gem in Glen Ellen & Kenwood
- HANSOM TOURS
- Jun 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 4
🍇 While Napa and western Sonoma get much of the wine world’s attention, Central Sonoma Valley—including Glen Ellen and Kenwood—offers a quieter, equally stunning experience for wine lovers.
This stretch of wine country is rich with history, stunning landscapes, and some of Sonoma’s most approachable and elegant wineries. Here's your guide to making the most of a Central Sonoma wine tour, featuring top wineries we regularly visit on our Wine Nation Tours route.
📍 7 Must-Visit Wineries in Glen Ellen & Kenwood
🍷 1. Kunde Family Winery – Vineyard Views for Days
Fifth-generation family estate with 1,850 acres
Try: Estate Cabernet Sauvignon or Mountain Chardonnay
Bonus: Book the Hilltop Tasting Experience for panoramic valley views
🌱 2. Benziger Family Winery – Biodynamic Pioneer
Certified biodynamic and sustainable farming
Try: Tribute Estate Red or Sonoma County Pinot Noir
Tour: Take their Tram Vineyard Tour — a guest favorite
Great for eco-conscious wine lovers
🎸 3. B.R. Cohn Winery – Wine Meets Rock & Roll
Founded by the Doobie Brothers’ manager
Try: Silver Label Cabernet or Olive Hill Estate Merlot
Gorgeous olive grove and music memorabilia on-site
Relaxed, music-loving vibe
🏰 4. Chateau St. Jean – French Elegance in Sonoma
Classic chateau surrounded by gardens
Try: Cinq Cépages Bordeaux Blend or Fumé Blanc
Great spot for large groups or romantic strolls
🍝 5. VJB Cellars – Italian Family Warmth & Wood-Fired Pizza
Small, family-run winery with Tuscan courtyard
Try: Barbera, Dolcetto, or their sparkling Prosecco
Don’t miss: their deli & wood-fired pizzas — lunch stop worthy!
🕍 6. Ledson Winery & Vineyards – The “Castle” of Sonoma
Iconic 16,000 sq. ft. French Normandy-style estate
Try: Sonoma Valley Zinfandel or Reserve Cab
Best for: Grand architecture, gift shopping, and photos
🥂 7. St. Francis Winery & Vineyards – Food & Wine Elevated
Known for their acclaimed wine & food pairings
Try: Old Vines Zinfandel or Sonoma County Merlot
Sustainable vineyards, tranquil views of the Mayacamas Mountains
🚗 Why Tour Central Sonoma?
Less crowded than Napa or Healdsburg
Wineries are close together, reducing drive time
Great for groups or relaxing, scenic days
Mix of historic estates and modern hospitality
Excellent food options from picnics to pairings
💬 What Guests Say
“This was hands-down the best day of our trip. Every stop felt unique and personal — and the scenery in Glen Ellen is unreal.”— Jason & Mia, San Diego
📣 Ready to Explore Central Sonoma?
Book a private wine tour through Glen Ellen & Kenwood with Wine Nation Tours. We handle all the reservations, tastings, lunch stops, and routes — you just sip and enjoy.
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