Did you know that the Petaluma Gap is one of California’s NEWEST and most highly acclaimed AVA’s (American Viniculture Area)? With our custom designed Private Petaluma Gap Wine Tour, we aim to highlight the uniqueness of the Petaluma Gap AVA and the gorgeous wineries located therein. We share personal and professional knowledge of the region, the best tasting experiences, the families behind the farms, and more.
Petaluma Gap Wine Tour
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Petaluma Gap Wine Tour
The Petaluma Gap AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a wine region located in Northern California, specifically within the larger Sonoma Coast AVA. It was officially designated as an AVA in 2017. The region is known for its unique climate, influenced by the coastal fog and winds from the Pacific Ocean, which create ideal conditions for growing cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.
The Petaluma Gap is located just 25 miles north of San Francisco, and is a premier gateway into Sonoma wine country that is not to be missed. A 15 mile gap in the coastal mountains channels strong, cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay, bringing with it dense nightly fog.
Our Petaluma Gap Wine Tour includes a visit to three of the wineries (tasting fees may not be included) for a seated tasting experiences, vineyard tours, optional vineyard lunch, private Tesla transportation for up to four guests, and a welcome wine and charcuterie for the road.
Why is the Petaluma Gap special?
Formed where a wind-gap in the coastal mountain range which funnels cooling wind and fog east from the Pacific Ocean through the city of Petaluma and south to San Pablo Bay. Afternoon wind causes lower, stronger yields and longer hang-time. Because of this, conditions are perfect for creating award winning wines.
The town of Petaluma is lively, vibrant, and holds a rich history dating back 200 years. It’s the perfect location to stay while you explore Wine Country, the Redwoods and the coast. While staying in Petaluma make sure to visit the numerous downtown tasting rooms and restaurants.
Characteristics of Petaluma Gap AVA
- Climate: The area experiences significant wind and fog, which cools the region and extends the growing season. This results in grapes with high acidity and complex flavors.
- Soil: The soils in the region are diverse, including volcanic, loam, and clay, which contribute to the unique terroir.
- Topography: The region includes rolling hills and valleys, which also influence the microclimates within the AVA.
Petaluma Gap Wineries
Keller Estate
Keller Estate known for its sustainably farmed vineyards and elegant wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The estate offers tours and tastings with stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding landscape.
- 5875 Lakeville Hwy, Petaluma, CA 94954
- Wednesday – Sunday 10:30AM – 4:30PM
Parum Leo
Parum Leo, or “little lion”, is a family-run, small-lot producer of boutique wines based in Petaluma. While they specialize in Pinot Noir, they also offer a selection of premium white and red wines. Parum Leo sources grapes from various appellations in Northern California, and grow their own on the estate in Petaluma.
- 4415 Kastania Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952
- Friday – Sunday 11AM – 4PM
Sangiacomo Family Wines
Sangiacomo Family Wines located just outside Petaluma Gap AVA, have been farming and growing grapes in the region since 1999. Their Roberts Road Vineyard is one of the most sought after sites in the area.
- 21545 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476
- Open daily from 10AM – 5PM
McEvoy Ranch
McEvoy Ranch has long been a famous Petaluma estate. Located on the way to Point Reyes, they offer a wide range wine tasting experiences as well as olive oil tastings and food pairings. Their wines and olive oil are both estate grown and worth the visit.
- 5935 Red Hill Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952
- Daily from 11AM – 5PM
Azari Vineyards
Azari Vineyards is a family winery located in a Tuscan style villa which overlooks their vineyards. They offer an intimate tasting experience with delicious estate grown Pinot Noir (you might even meet the owners).
- 1399 Spring Hill Rd, Petaluma, CA 94952
- Saturday & Sunday from 11AM – 4PM
Barber Cellars
Barber Cellars has a hip downtown tasting room and is located right in Hotel Petaluma. They offer a fun and casual tasting experience with delicious wines that can be paired with delicious small bites. If you’re feeling like something a little stronger than wine, they also are part of Barber Lee Spirits, a premium quality spirit’s lounge with a great atmosphere and fantastic mixed drinks.
- 112 Washington St, Petaluma, CA 94952
- Daily 11AM – 3PM
Toje Wines
Toje Wines Is located in Sonoma Valley and features wines from Petaluma Gap’s Sweet Lane Vineyard, neighbor to some of the Petaluma Gap’s most famous vineyards, Gap’s Crown and Robert’s Road. This small production winery produces delicious wines and present’s them in an intimate Wine Cave setting.
- 602 Bonneau Road Sonoma, CA 95476
- Reservations are available on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
Brooks Note Winery
Brooks Note Winery is one of downtown Petaluma’s newest tasting room’s, first opened in the summer of 2021. They have delicious Pinot and Chardonnay as well as lesser known varietals such as Pinot Blanc or Fiano. While they’re newer they’ve already made a splash on the Petaluma winery scene and are well worth the visit.
- 426 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952
- Friday 11AM – 8:30PM, Saturday – Thursday 11AM – 6PM
Book a Petaluma Gap Wine Tour
We love the Petaluma Gap and will put together a day featuring some unique wineries and experiences. Looking to venture outside of the Petaluma Gap? Get in touch with our Wine Country Expert to help plan your perfect trip.
