Anisya Fritz’s Sonoma

Napa and Sonoma are both gorgeous wine growing valleys in Northern California. Sonoma is larger, more diverse, more rustic and closer to the ocean. Where Napa Valley is more elegant, we tend to be more laid back and closer to nature in Sonoma. The Sonoma visitor is more likely to be interested in the outdoors, discovering gems on backroads and a fan of cool climate wines like Pinot Noir.

 Do you recommend staying in Sonoma or Healdsburg?

I think Healdsburg is a wonderful town with a quaint town square and a diversity of shopping and dining experiences.

 I would recommend Single Thread Restaurant and Farm run by the husband and wife team of Kyla and Katina Connaughton for an elegant, expensive and romantic meal. Charlie Palmers Dry Creek Kitchen and Barndiva are my other favorites for dinner. The Shed, with a beautiful retail presence and wonderful salads is a great place for a snack or lunch.

What is your favorite hotel in town and outside of town?

Hotel Healdsburg is centrally located and has all the amenities of a fine hotel. The Farmhouse Inn is a family owned precious gem in Forestville, and the Vintners Inn is a wonderful venue for corporate gatherings and events.

I think my favorite time of year is Fall. We have cool mornings and warm days. It is harvest time and there is a special energy that infuses wine growing regions when the grapes come off the vines and begin their journey.

Can you recommend one or two fun activities besides wine tasting?

 For the outdoor enthusiast there is wonderful hiking in Armstrong woods, a number or gorgeous bike paths, hot air ballooning over the valley, visits to Bodega Bay or Point Reyes Seashore. For  more cultural experiences I recommend a concert at The Green Music Center or a visit to the Charles Schultz museum.

What’s the best way to organize a visit to Lynmar?

Call our reservations line  at 707-829-3374 or email reserve@lynmarestate.com and speak with our concierge, who can tell you about our different wine tasting experiences, wine and food paired meals, our guest house or a private custom designed experience for you.