Cline Family Cellars: A Sonoma Valley Gem

Cline Family Cellars is a captivating destination that embodies the spirit of Sonoma wine country. Founded in 1982 by Fred Cline, the winery began in Oakley, California, with a focus on preserving historic plantings of Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, and Carignane, some dating back to the 1880s. In 1989, the Cline family moved to a 350-acre horse farm in the Carneros region of Sonoma, where they continue to craft exceptional wines with a deep respect for the land. Today, Cline Family Cellars stands as a testament to sustainable farming practices and a commitment to quality winemaking. As one of the few remaining family-owned and operated wineries in Sonoma County, Cline Cellars is dedicated to producing premium Rhone-style wines, Zinfandels, and classic California varietals. The winery's dedication to sustainability is evident in its use of cover crops, compost teas, and sheep to manage the vineyards, ensuring healthy vines for generations to come. This commitment has earned Cline Cellars recognition as a Certified California Sustainable and Sonoma County Sustainable winery. Visitors to Cline Family Cellars are greeted by breathtaking landscapes, charming animals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The property itself has a rich history, once serving as a Miwok village and later the site of the first Sonoma Mission, San Francisco Solano. Thermal springs once bubbled up from the soil, providing healing waters and irrigation for the gardens that still grace the grounds today. The tasting room is housed in an inviting 1850s farmhouse, where guests can enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences. Cline Cellars offers a range of tasting options to suit every preference. The Classic Sonoma Bar Tasting provides a casual, standing community tasting of four classic wines grown in Sonoma County. For a more relaxed experience, guests can opt for an Outdoor Seated Reserve Tasting, featuring a curated flight of five wines. The Hosted Tour & Barrel Room Tasting offers an insider's view of the winery, with a guided tour of the estate and a tasting of reserve wines in the working Barrel Room. For a truly special experience, guests can reserve a private Garden Cabana, complete with a provision basket and two bottles of Cline wine, or enjoy a Pondside Picnic by one of the spring-fed ponds. Cline Family Cellars is also a family-friendly destination, with plenty of room for children to roam and explore. The winery is home to Pudding and Fancy, two adorable donkeys that are reminiscent of the animals used at the mission until it moved to its current site in Sonoma Plaza. A whimsical map highlights the property's 3,000-plus rose bushes, dozens of turtles and carp in the pond, and the old mission bell in the garden. Beyond the wine and the beautiful scenery, Cline Family Cellars is a place where memories are made. The Cline family's passion for winemaking and their commitment to sustainability and family values are evident in every aspect of the winery. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Cline Family Cellars offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for Sonoma wine country. For those seeking a longer stay, Cline Family Cellars offers luxurious accommodations at the Vineyard Estate, which can host up to 10 guests. Situated on the historic 160-acre winery and vineyard, the picturesque estate makes for the perfect wine country getaway, just 10 minutes from downtown Sonoma and a 40-minute drive from San Francisco. Each stay includes a complimentary Outdoor Seated Reserve Tasting at the winery for up to 10 guests. Cline Family Cellars is more than just a winery; it's a destination that celebrates the beauty of Sonoma, the art of winemaking, and the importance of family. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and create lasting memories with loved ones.