When it comes to world-class wine and heartfelt hospitality, nothing compares to the charm and authenticity of family-owned Sonoma wineries. Rooted in tradition and dedicated to craftsmanship, these Sonoma family winery estates reflect generations of passion, innovation, and love for the land. Suppose you want to enjoy a fun tour through some of our favorite family-owned Sonoma wineries with wonderful environments and amazing wines. In that case, these Sonoma wineries offer unforgettable experiences in every glass.

1. A. Rafanelli Winery

Address: 4685 West Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Founded in the early 1900s by Italian experts Alberto and Letizia Rafanelli, A. Rafanelli Winery has been a cornerstone in Sonoma's Dry Creek Valley. Their son, Americo, moved the winery to its current location in the 1950s, focusing on premium Zinfandel grapes. Today, the fourth generation, led by Winemaker Shelly Rafanelli and Stacy Rafenelli, A Rafanelli Winery continues the tradition, emphasizing sustainable farming and handcrafted wines.

2. Amista Vineyards

Address: 3320 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Vicky and Mike Farrow's dream of owning a vineyard materialized in 1999 when they purchased a 20-acre Chardonnay vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. Over the years, they've transformed Amista Vineyards into a vibrant winery, introducing Rhône varietals and a sparkling wine program. The name "Amista," meaning "making friends" in Spanish, reflects their commitment to community and hospitality.

3. Bacigalupi Vineyards

Address: 4353 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Charles and Helen Bacigalupi purchased their estate in 1956, planting Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Bacigalupi Vineyards grapes gained international acclaim when used in the 1973 Château Montelena Chardonnay, which triumphed in the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Today, the family continues to cultivate their vineyards, producing wines that honor their rich heritage.

4. Brick & Mortar

Address: 315 Hudson Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Founded by husband-and-wife team Matt and Alexis Iaconis, Brick & Mortar focuses on crafting elegant, cool-climate wines from high-elevation vineyards. Our commitment to minimal intervention and sustainable practices reflects the dedication to both quality and the environment.

Experience a personal tasting with either our winemaker or owner in our barrel room or outdoor tasting space. Choose between a flight of our single vineyard still and sparkling wines, or a flight of our sparkling wines. A selection of cheese and charcuterie can be added by request.

Book your Brick & Mortar Tasting online here.

Notable Wines:

2022 Ferrington Vineyard Chardonnay
2022 Iaconis Chardonnay
2023 Manchester Ridge Rosé

5. CIRQ

Address: 1200 River Road, Fulton, CA 95439

Established by renowned winemaker Michael Browne, CIRQ is a boutique winery specializing in Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Browne's passion for winemaking and commitment to excellence are evident in every bottle, making it a standout among famous Sonoma wineries.

6. Cobb Wines

Address: 4720 Gravenstein Highway North, Sebastopol, CA 95472

David and Diane Cobb planted their Coastlands Vineyard in 1989, seeking a coastal property that combined their love for the ocean and redwoods. Their son, Ross Cobb, now leads Cobb Wines’ winemaking, producing nuanced Pinot Noirs that reflect the unique terroir of their estate. For incredible Sonoma Coast Wines, Cobb Wines is one of our favorites, and we know you will fall in love with the family and their amazing wines.

7. CHEV

Address: 1200 River Road, Fulton, CA 95439

Another venture by Michael Browne, CHEV celebrates bold, expressive Pinot Noir. With a retro, hot-rod vibe, this Sonoma family winery combines personality and precision, reflecting Browne's innovative spirit. At the same time, the emphasis is on agriculture, especially Sonoma’s soil, which delivers a unique taste.

8. Dutcher Crossing Winery

Address: 8533 Dry Creek Road, Geyserville, CA 95441

Debra Mathy fulfilled her lifelong dream by purchasing Dutcher Crossing in 2007. Under her leadership, Dutcher Crossing Winery has expanded its portfolio and embraced a philosophy centered on family, community, and exceptional hospitality.

9. Freeman Vineyard & Winery

Address: 1300 Montgomery Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472

Ken and Akiko Freeman founded their winery, Freeman Vineyard and Winer,y with a vision to produce elegant, cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Akiko, drawing from her Japanese heritage, brings a unique perspective to winemaking, emphasizing harmony and balance through all Freeman Vineyard wines.

10. Hirsch Vineyards

Address: 45075 Bohan Dillon Road, Cazadero, CA 95421

David Hirsch established his Hirsch vineyard in 1980 on the rugged Sonoma Coast. Initially supplying grapes to top producers, he began crafting his wines in 2002 to better understand his vineyard's unique terroir. The winery is now a benchmark for coastal Pinot Noir.

Visit Hirsh Vineyards downtown Healdsburg Tasting Room. See that and some of our other favorite Downtown Healdsburg Tasting Rooms to visit here.

11. Idlewild Wines

Address: 132 Plaza Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Sam Bilbro, inspired by his family's winemaking heritage, founded Idlewild Wines to explore Italian varietals in Sonoma. His passion for Piedmontese grapes like Dolcetto and Nebbiolo brings a fresh perspective to the region's wine scene.

12. Lioco Wines

Address: 125 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Lioco was born from a shared vision between Matt Licklider and Kevin O'Connor to produce minimalist, terroir-driven wines. Their commitment to sourcing from exceptional vineyards and employing natural winemaking techniques has garnered acclaim among enthusiasts. Additionally, the LIOCO Tasting Room was created to advance the concept of tasting. It's more of a Euro Wine Bar / Cafe vibe. The interior design is California Coastal.

13. Marine Layer Wines

Address: 308B Center Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Founded by Baron Ziegler, Marine Layer Wines is a family affair, with his children actively participating in the winemaking process. The winery focuses on Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, capturing the essence of the region's fog-laden vineyards.

14. Merriam Vineyards

Address: 11650 Los Amigos Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Peter and Diana Merriam fell in love with Sonoma County and established their estate in 2000. Emphasizing sustainable farming and French-inspired winemaking, Merriam Vineyards continues to produce wines that reflect their passion and dedication.

15. Martinelli Winery

Address: 3360 River Road, Windsor, CA 95492

With roots dating back to the 1880s, the Martinelli family has been cultivating vineyards in Sonoma for generations. Their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in their acclaimed Zinfandel and Pinot Noir offerings. They recognize Sonoma as the most sustainable wine-growing region in the world, taking part in recycling, emission-friendly equipment, and local commitment.

16. Mauritson Wines

Address: 2859 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

The Mauritson family's farming history in Sonoma spans six generations. Clay Mauritson continues this legacy, producing wines that showcase the distinct terroir of their Rockpile and Dry Creek Valley vineyards.

17. Papapietro Perry Winery

Address: 4791 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Founded by friends Ben Papapietro and Bruce Perry, this winery specializes in small-lot Pinot Noir. Papapietro Perry Winery’s collaborative approach and commitment to quality have made them a favorite among Pinot enthusiasts.

18. Ramey Wine Cellars

Address: 25 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg, CA 95448

David Ramey, a pioneer in California winemaking, established his family-run winery to produce wines that marry Old World traditions with New World innovation. His daughter, Claire, now plays a pivotal role in Ramey Wine Cellars' operations.

Visit Marine Layer’s downtown Healdsburg Tasting Room. See that and some of our other favorite Downtown Healdsburg Tasting Rooms to visit here.

19. Rochioli Vineyards and Winery

Address: 6192 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

The Rochioli family's commitment to excellence has made their estate a benchmark for Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Their single-vineyard wines are celebrated for their depth and complexity. In the 1990s, Rochioli Vineyards began releasing wines from individual vineyard blocks, each with unique character. This helped establish the Russian River Valley as a mini Côte-d'Or, known for terroir-driven wines.

20. Sangiacomo Family Wines

Address: 21545 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476

The Sangiacomo family's farming roots in Sonoma date back to 1927. Transitioning from grape growers to winemakers, they now produce wines that reflect their deep understanding of the land and commitment to sustainability.

21. Trailmaker Wines

Address: 12841 CA-12, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

A newer addition to Sonoma's wine scene, Trailmaker Wines is a family-run venture dedicated to producing approachable, high-quality wines that honor the region's rich viticultural heritage.

Each of these family-owned Sonoma wineries offers a unique glimpse into the dedication, passion, and history that define Sonoma's wine country. Visiting these famous Sonoma wineries not only provides an opportunity to taste exceptional wines but also to connect with the families who pour their hearts into every bottle.

Top Family-Owned Sonoma Wineries: A Guide to Authentic Wine