One of the first things I wanted to do after getting back to the Bay Area was drive up to Wine Country. Sonoma County has turned a deep green since I was last here—the kind of lush that makes you pull over just to take it in. There’s something grounding about these quiet hills, the early spring air, and those rows of vines stretching into the distance.

We spent the day at MacRostie Winery, one of my go-to spots in Sonoma Wine Country, and honestly, it was exactly what I needed. I’ve always loved this place—not just for the wine, but for the setting. There’s something about being out on their terrace, glass in hand, looking out over the vines. It feels tucked-away in the best way. Like you’ve somehow got a slice of Wine Country all to yourself (but shh, I never said that).

The MacRostie Estate House – Design That Speaks for Itself

You know I’m a sucker for good design, and MacRostie’s Estate House really delivers. When they built this space, they didn’t cut corners—they brought in Gould Evans Architects, Grant K. Gibson for interiors, and ROCHE+ROCHE for the landscape. The result is simple, elegant, and incredibly intentional.

It’s all clean lines, warm wood, and glass that opens straight out onto the vineyards. Whether you’re inside or outside, you’re wrapped in these stunning views of the Russian River Valley. It’s elegant, but not overdone—sophisticated without trying too hard. One of those spaces that just makes you want to stay a little longer.

asting Experience at MacRostie – Pinot, Chardonnay & a Perfect View

One of the things I love about Sonoma wine country is how different every tasting feels—and MacRostie Winery always delivers something special. Their focus is on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and if you’re into cool-climate wines that are both elegant and expressive, this is the spot.

MacRostie sources its grapes from some of the top vineyards in Sonoma County, including their own Wildcat Mountain Vineyard, as well as Sangiacomo and Dutton Ranch—names you’ll definitely hear if you’re exploring wines from the Russian River Valley or Carneros. You can really taste the range of Sonoma’s terroir in each glass. Every wine we tried had a story, and a personality.

Our tasting was led by Kristi (ask for her if you go—she’s the best), and she walked us through each pour with the kind of warmth and insight that makes you feel instantly welcome. We even got to look out over one of the vineyard sites while tasting the wine that came from it, which just adds this whole layer of connection to what’s in your glass. The Loch & Key Reserve Editions were a highlight—small production, estate-only wines that you won’t find anywhere else. Complex, beautifully balanced, and very much worth the visit alone. And yes, the food pairings? Next level. I’m still thinking about those biscuits. We also talked a bit about Clockwise Wines, the personal label of Heidi Bridenhagen, MacRostie’s head winemaker (and one of the youngest leading winemakers in Sonoma!). Her approach is all about precision and purity of expression, and it totally comes through in both brands.

Every time I visit MacRostie, I leave wanting to come back. Maybe next time around harvest, when the valley shifts into that golden, late-summer glow.

PS: There was a recent wildfire near Healdsburg, and it’s heartbreaking to see how fragile these beautiful places can be. Hoping for safety for everyone affected—and a reminder to keep taking care of the land that gives us so much.

Planning a full Wine Country weekend? Check out my guide to 48 Hours in Sonoma and my favorite wineries with a view.

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