15 Small, Under-the-Radar Sonoma & Napa Wineries To Visit Now

Napa Valley and Sonoma County are home to some of the world’s most famous names in wine, but sometimes it’s fun to go off-the-beaten track to discover the less mainstream, smaller production wineries. Often family-owned and operated, these wineries tend to offer welcoming hospitality, intimate tasting experiences (sometimes held with the winemaker and/or owners themselves), and limited-release bottlings not easily found outside the winery.

So, the next time you’re looking to visit a small producer you may not have heard of, or simply want to add a bottle of something delicious you can’t find anywhere else, be sure to check out these 15 under-the-radar wineries in Napa Valley and Sonoma County — all of which are currently open and ready to welcome you back. They may produce less wine than the bigger names, but rest assured these wineries don’t disappoint when it comes to offering memorable experiences. Just be sure to book your reservation in advance and bring your mask, per the latest Covid-19 guidelines in place throughout the State of California.

15 Under-the-Radar Small-Production Wineries to Visit Now

Napa Valley

Amulet Estate

Amulet Estate is a family-owned boutique winery nestled in the hills of St. Helena, where single vineyard wines express the elegance of Napa Valley terroir. Location: St. Helena

Etude Wines

Explore single-vineyard chardonnay, pinot noir, and cabernet sauvignon wines at this Napa gem. Location: Napa

Mira Winery

A brand-new hospitality house is an idyllic place to sample their single-vineyard, single-varietal wines. Location: Yountville

Canard Vineyard

Enjoy hand-crafted, single-vineyard estate wines at the historic 25-acre property. Location: Calistoga

Hewitt Vineyard

Savor Hewitt’s single-vineyard cabernet sauvignon from the patio of sister winery, Provenance. Location: Rutherford

Fantesca Estate & Winery

Stunning views, wine caves, and limited-release wines await at this pristine Spring Mountain winery. Location: St. Helena

Somerston Estate

Take a private tour and tasting at this secluded, picturesque property, located high on the eastern hills of Napa Valley. Location: St. Helena

Maxville Winery

A peaceful setting, panoramic views, and award-winning wines are some of the highlights of this Chiles Valley winery. Location: St. Helena

Sonoma County

Moshin Vineyards

Relaxed tasting experiences and Burgundian varietals take center stage at this estate winery in the Russian River Valley. Location: Healdsburg

Schermeister Winery

Creekside tastings led by the Schermeisters themselves make for a memorable experience. Location: Glen Ellen

Garden Creek Vineyards

Walk through the vineyards during a visit to this family-run winery, nestled in the hillsides of the Alexander Valley. Location: Geyserville

Donelan Wines

Sip syrah and pinot noir made from grapes the Donelan Family source throughout Northern California. Location: Santa Rosa

VJB Cellars

Italian roots inspire all aspects of this family-operated winery, from the wine and food to the hospitality and atmosphere. Location: Kenwood

Bricoleur Vineyards

Wine and food go hand-in-hand at this picturesque winery focused on sustainable viticulture. Location: Windsor

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– Napa Valley Wineries Reopen for Visitors –

– Napa Valley Reopening: What to Expect in the Covid-19 Era –

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Author

WineCountry Staff