Sojourn Cellars

About Sojourn Cellars

Sojourn Cellars was founded in 2001 by Erich Bradley and Craig Haserot, two friends united by a passion for winemaking and wine collecting. The winery's name draws inspiration from the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, who believed life itself was a sojourn—a temporary journey best lived to its fullest. This philosophical foundation shapes the winery's approach to crafting exceptional wines and creating meaningful tasting experiences. Beginning with 100 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon produced for friends and family, Sojourn has evolved into a critically acclaimed producer known for its meticulous attention to vineyard selection and winemaking excellence.

The Tasting Experience

Located in a charming yet sophisticated Tasting Salon just steps from downtown Sonoma's historic square, Sojourn offers an intimate seated tasting experience designed for wine connoisseurs. Guests are seated at private tables where Wine Educators guide them through comparative tastings of single-vineyard wines served in elegant stemware. The experience focuses on exploring the nuances and distinctive qualities of wines from three primary appellations: Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, and Napa Valley. The salon features exhibits of soil samples from various vineyards and maps showing the precise locations where Sojourn sources its fruit, deepening guests' understanding of terroir and regional characteristics.

Wine Portfolio

Sojourn focuses exclusively on three varietals: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. While the winery's inaugural vintage in 2001 was a Cabernet, the founders recognized the exceptional potential of Pinot Noir and added it to the portfolio in 2004, eventually making it the cornerstone of their production. The winery's current releases showcase single-vineyard expressions from acclaimed sites including Durell Vineyard, Rodgers Creek Vineyard, Wohler Vineyard, and Beckstoffer Georges III in Napa Valley. Seasonal offerings ensure that tastings reflect the latest vintages and vineyard releases, providing returning guests with fresh discoveries.

Atmosphere and Setting

The recently renovated Tasting Salon combines relaxed comfort with sophisticated elegance, creating an environment conducive to serious wine appreciation without pretension. The intimate setting encourages meaningful conversation and focused tasting, distinguishing Sojourn from larger, family-style vineyards. The proximity to gourmet restaurants and boutique shops in downtown Sonoma makes the location ideal for visitors seeking a comprehensive wine country experience within walking distance of other attractions.

Visiting Information

Tastings are available daily by appointment, with same-day walk-in appointments accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Typical tastings last 45 to 60 minutes, though the experience can extend to two hours depending on group size and depth of exploration. The winery is closed only on major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Sojourn also offers a wine club for enthusiasts seeking regular access to new releases and exclusive offerings.