Homewood

Homewood is a small artisan operation in Carneros, and after 38 harvests it is still handcrafting in small batches. The scale is the appeal, and so is the lack of polish.

The range is broader and more idiosyncratic than most wineries this size attempt, taking in Roussanne, Century Old Vine Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Malbec, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and blends with names like Redder The Better and Flying Wizzbangers, plus late harvest dessert wines. Several have taken Silver Medals. They also run case sales at prices well below what the surrounding valley charges. Michael's staff score of 8 is the highest of its marks. Tastings are on site. A genuine value stop on a southern Sonoma day.