Bartholomew Park

Bartholomew Park calls itself the birthplace of California premium wine, and the site has a stronger claim than most: the Haraszthy Villa and museum sit on the grounds, and the Bartholomew Foundation runs the whole thing as a park rather than purely as a winery.

That changes what a visit is. Alongside tasting at the Bartholomew Estate Winery there are hiking trails, picnicking with vineyard views, horseback riding, educational and cultural programmes and museum access. It is dog friendly with public restrooms and published group policies, which is rare and useful. Michael scores the ambiance an 8 against 6 for wine and staff, so come for the setting and the history. Park hours are 10:00am to 6:00pm with no entry after 4:30pm, at 1000 Vineyard Lane. Call 707-938-2244. An unusually flexible stop on a southern Sonoma day.