Fall isn’t just a picturesque time to visit California wine country, it’s also an ideal moment to drink up the beauty of the region between the busy summer and holiday seasons. Peak harvest season, it’s also a great time to get an inside look at grapes being harvested and processed, destined to become in-demand future vintages.
Located just outside Guerneville, AutoCamp Russian River puts you at the center of wine country, a quick drive from some of the area’s best spots for tastings and vineyard tours.
While there’s more wineries in driving distance than you could fit into a single weekend, here’s our guide to the best (and most beautiful) spots for tasting—plus a few bonus ways to savor Sonoma’s most famous product.
A Sampling of Our Favorite Local Wineries
10 Minutes from AutoCamp
A western location within the Russian River Valley means cooler-weather wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel at this biodynamic vineyard. Revived in the 1980s by the Bass family, the picturesque vineyard has since been almost entirely replanted according to biodynamic principles, which emphasize getting the most out of the land using just labor—not harsh chemicals or over-the-top interventions. Make a reservation for a tasting of their renowned reds and whites!
8 minutes from AutoCamp
The roots of this historic winery date back to the 1800s, when the Korbel family arrived in California with the idea of bringing traditional French champagne-making techniques to the states. The results speak for themselves, and their family of sparkling wines, ranging from Brut to an Italian-style prosecco, are frequent award-winners. The sprawling vineyard includes a gourmet market offering food and snacks, as well as tastings by appointment.
22 Minutes from AutoCamp
This family-owned winery has a rustic vibe and panoramic views of Mt. St. Helena, a dreamy outdoor setting for sampling their sophisticated whites. Start with a taste of one of their famous sparkling wines, which have been served at The White House since the 1980s (we’re partial to the Wedding Cuvee, made from the blanc de noirs grape).
21 Minutes from AutoCamp
With their first vintage dating back to just 2000, this relatively young winery offers a unique blend of old world-style wines made with a modern touch. With a tasting room housed in a former tractor dealership, Red Car is a charming place to spend an afternoon sampling their lineup of Syrahs, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more.
17 Minutes from AutoCamp
Founded by a fourth-generation farmer who realized the power of converting his family dairy farm to a vineyard, Russian River’s winemakers emphasize a light touch, letting the flavor of the grapes shine through.
More Ways to Make the Most of a Wine Weekend at AutoCamp
Wind Down the Wine Road
Winding over 50 miles through Sonoma County, the Wine Road includes stops at some of the region’s most famous vineyards and small indie discoveries. Choose one of their guided maps and plan a day trip, or take a few extra days to soak up everything harvest season has to offer.
Enjoy Local Dining in Guerneville
Stop in quaint Guerneville after your wine tour for a casual lunch or a four course tasting menu highlighting local flavors. From Italian comfort food at Betty Spaghetti to German classics at Brot and seasonal American fare at Boon Eat + Drink, there’s something for every mood.
Explore Bohemian Highway
For a relaxing drive, meander your way down the 10 mile Bohemian Highway, which runs through Occidental. Surrounded by towering redwoods and scenic vistas, it a great way to wind down after a day of exploring.