Dry Creek Valley

I recently went wine tasting in the Dry Creek AVA of Sonoma County. The Dry Creek Valley is beautiful and has a warm and welcoming country atmosphere. On our day of tasting we sampled numerous wines at many different wineries. As you might expect some parts of the day were more memorable than others. A few of the stand outs from my day of tasting included the wines from UNTI Vineyards, Preston of Dry Creek and the picnic provisions from the Dry Creek General Store.

The Dry Creek General Store established in 1881 has all you’ll need for lunch from sandwiches to salads and even a selection of beers if your palate needs a break from wine tasting. They serve everything to go or you can enjoy a pretty view of the valley from the store’s front porch or shaded picnic tables.

UNTI Vineyards is a small family-run winery producing about 6500 cases annually. The wines are all estate grown and are well worth the visit. Their tasting room and approach is simple, no frills but friendly, letting the wines speak for themselves. Tastings are by appointment only (707-433-5590).

Another must see is Preston of Dry Creek. Preston of Dry Creek is an organic family farm. In addition to producing interesting and tasty wines, the tasting room sells Preston of Dry Creek home-made breads, olive oils and seasonal vegetables from their organic gardens. The tasting room is located just off a peaceful and calm country garden with tables and umbrellas - the perfect spot for a wine country picnic. Pick-up supplies at the Dry Creek General store, buy a bottle of Preston of Dry Creek wine and enjoy lunch in the garden.

Some fun facts about Dry Creek form the Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley web site:

Dry Creek Valley is one of the smallest enclosed American Viticultural Areas only 16 miles long and 2 miles wide

Key varietals for the region include: Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc

Dry Creek Valley has roughly 9,300 acres of planted vineyards and 58 wineries

The history of grape growing and winemaking in Dry Creek Valley is among the longest in California, beginning more than 130 years ago.

Dry Creek Valley also produces apricots, peaches, plums, pears and olives.

Mikaela Sullivan
Wine Education Manager