Resilient Sonoma County, Gather In Sonoma

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The Kincade Fire in Northern California has been fully contained and Sonoma County’s hospitality businesses have returned to what they do best – providing guests with a world-class welcome and unforgettable experiences.

The fire damaged less than 8% of Sonoma County’s 1 million-acre land mass. Some 77,758 acres burned and threatened the populated areas of Geyserville, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, and Windsor. However, firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the largely unoccupied wilderness areas in the rugged northeastern part of the county, beyond where most visitors go. Cal Fire reports 374 structures were destroyed, 60 more damaged, and no fatalities.

The 2019 winegrape harvest was 92 percent complete at the onset of the fires, while an additional 3% was harvested before evacuations took place a few days later. Vintners have a positive outlook about the 2019 wines and are committed to only releasing the highest-quality wines that Sonoma County wine enthusiasts have come to know and love.

Only two winery tasting rooms reported damage. Soda Rock Winery lost its tasting room. Much of Soda Rock’s wine storage is offsite, so there was little damage to inventory. As part of Wilson Artisan Wineries, Soda Rock wines can be purchased online or at other Wilson Artisan wineries.

The Spire Collection at Field Stone Vineyard sustained damage to the winery and barn. They are still hosting guests and accepting appointments at their tasting room in Calistoga.

“This is a great time to visit,” said Claudia Vecchio, president/CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. “The weather is good, there is a full slate of events, and the hospitality is unmatched. Visiting now helps support local businesses and families.”

Visitors are encouraged to take photos while they explore the region and tag #GatherInSonoma on their social media channels. Enjoy tasting rooms, brew pubs, state and regional parks, and gorgeous coastline. With warm temperatures and blue skies, there is an abundance of events to enjoy, and the hospitality remains unmatched.

Businesses are providing visitors with special offers, including inns, resorts, wineries, restaurants, and other attractions. Continue enjoying a taste of Wine Country all year long when you take advantage of $5 shipping on cases of wine through Nov. 22 with the Wine Road #SipSonoma offer. Visit www.sonomacounty.com/gather-sonoma for more information about specials and trip planning.

Plan to #GatherInSonoma County, where Life Opens Up. Just as wine “opens up” when it’s allowed to breathe, Sonoma County inspires visitors to open upto new experiences. Just 30 miles north of San Francisco, Sonoma County is one of California’s top food and wine destinations, home to more than 425 wineries ranging from rustic to regal. Hike among towering redwoods, cruise along rugged Pacific coastline, and get to know inviting small towns. Or, just sit back and take it all in. Because here, you’re free to go your own way.

Sonoma County was named Wine Enthusiast magazine’s 2019 Wine Region of the Year. Start planning your visit today at www.sonomacounty.com or call 707-522-5800.