Pinot Noir is about place. The where of growing it, making it and consuming it all plays a part in the joy and love of it. And while Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is delicious no matter where you drink it, there is something magical about enjoying it while tucked in between tall trees, eyes taking in the view of the very vines grown to create it. With that in mind we’ve scouted some of the best patio views in the Valley.
Everywhere in Anderson Valley is beautiful and there’s not a bad option to be had, but these five are some of our favorites to feast our eyes as well as our palates:
Pennyroyal Farm: The Bounty of Boonville
Farm animals might not sound like the ideal drinking buddies, but there is nothing quite so quintessentially Anderson Valley as sitting on Pennyroyal’s patio watching the sheep graze, listening to the honeybees buzz and sipping on Sauvignon Blanc (or more likely, Pinot Noir). The winery is often a site for sore eyes after the long and windy drive into the valley but its patio is where the true vision lies.
Toulouse Vineyards: Drinking with the Birds
Geese grace the wine labels at Toulouse but they aren’t the only birds you’ll see when you flock to this winery patio. High up on a hill and nestled among the tops of trees, you’ll be drinking in miles of views along with your tasting.
Breathtaking Views
You’ll get glimpses of the winding Navarro River far below and flashes of rustling wings in your eyeline. Just don’t get too loose, it’s a long drop down.
Goldeneye: Golden Gardens and Rugged Redwoods
Anderson Valley has a reputation that leans toward the rustic. But Goldeneye is happy to prove that stereotype wrong with its pristine patio gardens and sweeping, expansive views. Beyond its carefully manicured flowers, though, is a line of giant redwoods and vast vineyards in between. It’s a study in all types of environmental exquisiteness and the setting truly reflects the wines of Goldeneye: elegantly made but with just an edge of rustic place.
Phillips Hill Winery: Apples and Pears and Pinot, Oh My!
It’s hard to get sick of vineyard views but variety is the spice of life and Phillips Hill can help sate your wandering eye as well as your palate. You can choose to sit tucked below the tasting room to enjoy the quiet harmony of the babbling creek or go for the more variegated views offered at the picnic tables which encompass the neighboring vines, towering redwoods and an orchard full of pear trees. Either way, you get to enjoy the sight of the tasting room itself: an old apple dryer barn full of history and charm.
Handley Cellars: Homey Touches and Deep Views
Perhaps it’s more famous for the unique antiques that fill the inside of the tasting room but Handley’s outdoor environs are equally full of thoughtful touches that remind one of both near and far.
Adirondacks dot the front lawn allowing for views of the undulating hills, uninterrupted other than wildflowers peeping here and there. Or, take a seat on the more formal patio: arbor overhead, glass full, eyes on the historic ranch house and daydreams brimming with what it would be like to live full time nestled among the vines.
Accommodation with Charm. And Paella
The Boonville Hotel is the local hotspot in Anderson Valley. Not only do they offer individually decorated rooms with a touch of shabby chic, they have a gorgeous patio for leisurely dining or socializing. On Sunday’s during the summer and fall they offer a paella night. But reserve ahead because it always fills up!
Overwhelm Your Senses: Sleep to Crashing Waves
If you are looking for a coastal experience to compliment your wine tasting trip look no further than the Heritage House Inn & Spa. Enjoy rustic luxury with an expansive ocean view directly outside of your room. Only a few minutes from Mendocino, you have access to incredible dining options and shopping.
~ By Jacqueline Rogers
Pinot Noir is about place. The where of growing it, making it and consuming it all plays a part in the joy and love of it. And while Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is delicious no matter where you drink it, there is something magical about enjoying it while tucked in between tall trees, eyes taking in the view of the very vines grown to create it. With that in mind we’ve scouted some of the best patio views in the Valley.
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