The transition from summer to fall means one thing in wine country: it’s time to harvest! With harvest comes a bevy of activity. Winemakers are up at all hours of the night picking grapes at the opportune moment. The crush facilities come alive and are heavy with the scent of freshly-pressed grapes. There is an excitement in the air and once the hard work is done, it’s reason to celebrate. Just about every winery hosts some sort of harvest party to commemorate the season. Here are the ones you should not miss.
The 4th annual Calistoga Harvest Table event is being held on Sunday, September 10 under the full harvest moon. 13 local restaurants and over 40 vintners will serve an incredible meal at a massive 1,000-foot long table set up in the middle of the city. Nearby Calistoga Ranch is offering a special packaged deal in honor of the dinner that includes luxe accommodations, a welcome bottle of their estate wine, and two tickets to the harvest table event, which is already sold out! Rates for rooms start at $1570.
On Saturday, September 16, Clif Family Farm is throwing their 9th annual harvest festival. From 3 to 8 p.m. at the family’s property in Pope Valley, there will be live music, tastings of the latest wine releases, artisan food, and interactive farm tours. Tickets are $95 and give you a behind the scenes look at the Clif family’s legacy.
Charles Krug Winery is celebrating their 66th annual harvest party with a special tasting on the lawn. On September 16, from 4 to 7 p.m., guests are invited to taste new release wines while snacking on an array of Italian-inspired cuisine like pizza and pasta. Derick Irving and His Combo will perform retro rock n’ roll and R&B. Guests are encouraged to pack picnicking essentials like lawn chairs and blankets to fully enjoy the lively gathering. Tickets are $90 and no children are allowed.
On Saturday, September 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. is B.R. Cohn Winery’s Summer of Love party. The winery’s founder, Bruce Cohn, was actually the Doobie Brothers’ manager for 45 years and was there at the summer of love in the midst of the action! Enjoy a musical performance by Creatures of Habit and Chick Jagger, food trucks, and of course, wine. 1960s-themed costumes are encouraged and there will be a contest.
Kendall-Jackson is hosting an exciting inaugural harvest celebration on Sunday, October 1. The all-day event starts at 10:30 a.m. and includes farm fresh produce including the culinary garden’s famous tomatoes. There will be wine and food pairing demonstrations, outdoor painting sessions, live music, and educational seminars on topics like bee hives, cheesemaking, and barrel making. Tickets are $125 and proceeds from the event will benefit the UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County.
