With news that more direct flights have opened up to Sonoma County, the area is on our radar more than ever. They also have a new motto: Life Opens Up. In the same way that one lets wine “open up,” to  “breathe” and be at its best, the idea is that WE open ourselves up to new experiences. We love that notion and agree completely! There’s a lot going on in Sonoma County these days and here are a few things that are new that, in particular, caught our eyes.

“Life Opens Up,” was announced as Sonoma County’s motto (along with delicious wine and appetizers) at a recent gathering RealFoodTraveler.com attended.

Lodging that’s new in Sonoma County:

Hotel E accepting reservations for July opening
In July, 2019, Hotel E opens in downtown Santa Rosa’s historic Empire Building, adjacent  to  the 19 Old Courthouse Square building. The 71-room four-star boutique hotel, in the Beaux Arts building will have 39 rooms available in January and the rest coming later in the year. The Enology Lounge is a combination wine bar, living room, and lobby. Reservations for this first phase of the project are being accepted at hotelesantarosa.com.

The E Hotel in Santa Rosa is one of the things that’s new in Sonoma County. Photo courtesy the E Hotel.

Wineries that are new in Sonoma County:

Coursey Graves opens Healdsburg tasting room
The new tasting room in downtown Healdsburg provides an opportunity for owner John Graves and winemaker-owner Cabell Coursey to help guests focus on discovering lesser-known vineyards that yield some of the world’s best fruit. Their goal is to have wines reflect on a sense of “place,” and improve with age. Seated tastings are $35 and include a local artisan cheese board. Walk-in tastings, $25, are wine-only. Reservations are encouraged and walk-ins are welcome.

Restaurants that are new in Sonoma County:

Corks & Taps features beer, wine, bites
It was the dream of Floyd and Nicole Wells to open their own place where they could share their passions for taprooms and wineries. Enjoy beer, wine,  cheese and charcuterie boards, a hummus plate, chicken tenders, Caesar salad, mini corn dogs, and a selection of cheese melts and flatbreads. Bring the kids to this family-friendly spot too.

Corks & Taps is a great place to ponder what a great day you’ve had in Sonoma.

Sweet Treats new in Sonoma County:

Two Dog Night Creamery opens a new location in Windsor 
Organic ice cream made from dairy products from local farmers, and cones are made daily. The small batch ice cream is frozen using liquid nitrogen, which means little air is whipped into the cream, resulting in a super-creamy, dense product. Look forward to seasonal flavors including Blueberry Pie, with organic blueberry preserves and cinnamon streusel, and Yuzu Lemon, which blends lemon, mandarin orange, and grapefruit.

Which flavor will you choose at Two Dog Night Creamery?

Special ways to experience Sonoma County:

Private food and wine pairing at The Spa Gourmet 
It’s pampering to the max when you can taste premium wines paired with delicious gourmet goodies and a spa experience. The Spa Gourmet is the creation of husband and wife team, chef Trip Fuchs and massage therapist Cindy Scott-Fuchs. Each has more than 20 years of experience in their respective crafts. Together they can turn your Sonoma County vacation rental into a private luxury spa and gourmet restaurant for a day. Chef Trip delivers seven hand-picked Mayo Family Wines paired with tapas-style portions, complete with wine pouring and presentation in your chosen Sonoma County vacation spot. The deluxe package includes luxurious spa treatments.

For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call 707-522-5800. 

Hungry for more? While you’re in the area, take a little extra time to visit The Presidio. Find out how they made wine a long time ago (and still do).