For years, many wineries all throughout the West Coast and especially Northern California were touted as great honeymoon spots or weekend getaways for just mom and dad. After all, the old saying goes that wineries are “for making babies, not taking babies.” But for the families who will be visiting Sonoma County, California this summer, they will quickly realize that’s not always the case.

In fact, many wineries are becoming more “kid friendly” in order to allow parents to enjoy the finer things in life, so to speak, while letting their children experience something that isn’t always offered: a behind-the-scenes winery tour. Kendall-Jackson is a fabulous example of a winery and vineyard that is not only family-friendly, but also a wonderful property with lush gardens, a farm, and a breathtaking banquet hall.

Kendall-Jackson Vineyard Estates is a vineyard and winery, under the Kendall-Jackson brand, located in Santa Rosa, California in the Sonoma Valley wine country. It’s also one of the most beautiful estates in the area, and was named the American Winery of the Year Award for 2018.
One of the great things about the Kendall-Jackson winery is that they grow the herbs they use in their food tastings in their gardens. There is also a large garden dedicated to organic vegetables and fruits used in the estate’s food, and an absolutely beautiful flower garden. The chefs themselves come by the table to discuss the ingredients and the service by every staff person is above par, which makes this a great educational experience for everyone, regardless of age.

When it comes to your kids, encourage participation. Kids can share in the experience by tasting grape juice or freshly squeezed lemonade (which was offered during our tour). Kids even get to taste some of the fruits and vegetables that are grown in the garden and participate in a special behind-the-scenes tour of the winery’s kitchen. Children will also love the demonstration garden, with every variety of wine grapes you can imagine. Another highlight is the chicken coop behind the estate. There was also plenty of room in the back terrace for children to play while parents and adults enjoyed food and wine pairings inside the banquet hall.

Speaking of the food and wine pairing, Kendall-Jackson will exceed your expectations. There is perhaps no other place that children can learn all that there is to know about the wine production industry while moms and dads can sample house smoked trout and liberty farm duck breast with a glass of cabernet sauvignon, straight from the backyard.

A gift shop is located by the main entrance and includes a variety of items, including Kendall-Jackson’s own signature dog collars. That’s right: the winery isn’t only family friendly, but pet friendly, too.

Of course, keep the rules of winery tasting-room etiquette in mind while visiting any of the Sonoma County wineries. During your tasting, bring additional snacks and coloring books to keep smaller children entertained. Needless to say, drink responsibly. Know what your limitations are and designate certain duties to those who are abstaining from the tasting, especially when visiting with kids. Reservations are also encouraged before your visit.
Know Before You Go:
5007 Fulton Rd
Fulton, CA 95403
(707) 571-8100

Have you ever visited a Sonoma Valley winery?  Share your experiences with us in the comments!

Share your thoughts in the Comments section below, on our Facebook Page,  Follow Our Twitter Account or Head Over To Our Pinterest Page!