Sonoma County is arguably one of the best regions in California for the production of sparkling wine. With several sub-appellations boasting the perfect climate for growing premium sparkling wine grapes, it’s no wonder numerous Sonoma bubblies have garnered worldwide attention. Many have even been served at some of the country’s most prestigious events (read: Presidential Inaugurations).

While sparkling wines are found throughout the region, there are several Sonoma AVAs that are producing truly world-class sparkling wines. The Russian River Valley, along with the Carneros and Sonoma Coast AVAs are marked by the perfect climate for growing classic sparkling wine grapes like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Here, a strong marine influence from the Pacific Ocean provides breezes and lingering fog that keeps the region cool. These factors contribute to a long growing season that allows the grapes to slowly ripen, developing complex and elegant flavors, while retaining the bright acidity so crucial to producing quality sparkling wines.

If all this talk of bubbly has you ready to pop some corks, read on for a list of some of Sonoma County’s best sparkling wine producers.

A Carneros Staple

Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards

Winegrowers since the 1500s and owners of Spain’s La Freixeneda (of the famous Freixenet Cava), the Ferrer family founded Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards in 1986 to pursue their dream of creating traditional method sparkling wines in New World terroir. They chose Carneros, where they would become the first sparkling wine house in the area. Produced as both still and sparkling, and ranging from brut to demi-sec, the wines have been awarded hundreds of gold medals and more than fifty 90-point scores in recent years.

Insider Tip: Book the Taste of Carneros for the ultimate sparkling wine tasting. You’ll enjoy a flight of four sparkling wines while seated outside with views of the Carneros estate vineyards.

Tasting Fee: $60-$125
Visit: 23555 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA 95476 
Contact: (707) 933-1986
Reservations: Recommended

All That Sparkles

J Vineyards & Winery

With a cheerful tagline like “Let life bubble over,” this iconic winery is a must-visit. Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, J Vineyards produces a range of still wines and bubblies made from classic grapes like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Meunier. From bone dry extra brut to softly sweet demi-sec to complex vintage selections, sparkling wine lovers of all types are sure to find something up their alley.

Insider Tip: While gorgeous spaces to sip and savor at J Vineyards abound, few compare to the food and wine pairing experience at The Bubble Room, available during five seatings per day, Thursday – Sunday.

Tasting Fee: $35-$175
Visit: 11447 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Contact: (707) 431-5430
Reservations: Recommended

Bubbly For All

Iron Horse Vineyards

The wines of this family-owned estate, located in the Green Valley appellation of the Russian River Valley, have an impressive history; they have been served at the White House for six consecutive Presidential Administrations, starting with the Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings ending the Cold War. Iron Horse Vineyards produces over a dozen different vintage sparkling wines, ranging from their classic Vintage Brut to their Joy! Blanc de Blancs, made from 100% Chardonnay and aged for a whopping 15 years en tirage.

Insider Tip: Each bottle of Iron Horse Ocean Reserve Blanc de Blancs gives a portion of every bottle sold to The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California.

Tasting Fee: $35-$50
Visit: 9786 Ross Station Road, Sebastopol, CA 95472
Contact: (707) 887-1507
Reservations: Required

Bubbles & Bites

Domaine Carneros

Though it’s not technically in Sonoma, Domaine Carneros is just a stone’s throw away in Carneros and should be on your radar if you like bubbly. This popular Château shines with a wide range of sparkling wines and cheese pairings, which can be enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace. Or, if an elevated tasting is what you’re after, the Bubbles & Bites experience features four sparklers paired with an appetizer menu inspired by different cuisines from across the globe, while the Ultimate Caviar Experience allows two people to savor a selection of three portions of Tsar Nicoulai Caviar, gourmet potato chips, toast points, crème fraîche, and sparkling wine.

Insider Tip: It’s worth noting that if you’re traveling with a group of friends, tastings here are limited to groups of 8 people. Oh, and no one under 21 is permitted, so plan accordingly. 

Tasting Fee: $40-$175
Visit: 1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559
Contact: (800) 716-2788
Reservations: Required

Food Friendly Fizz

Inman Family Wines

A passion for Pinot Noir led Napa native Kathleen Inman to establish Inman Family Wines in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Since then, this small, terroir-driven winery produces both still and sparkling wines made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris that are naturally low in alcohol and food-friendly. The winery’s three sparklers, the Extra Brut Luxe Cuvee, 100% Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs, and their 100% Pinot Noir-based Blanc de Noir, are great testaments to the potential of the Russian River Valley for world-class sparkling wines. 

Insider Tip: The winery is made almost entirely from recycled materials and has the first privately owned, publicly available electric vehicle charging station in the North Bay.

Tasting Fee: $30-$100
Visit: 3900 Piner Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Contact: (707) 293-9576
Reservations: Recommended

Brillant Bubbles

Bacigalupi Vineyards

Founded by Charles and Helen Bacigalupi in 1956, Bacigalupi Vineyards has a rich history in sparkling wine production. Their hallmark sparkling wine – Brillante –  is a tribute to Paul Heck, co-owner of Korbel, daughter-in-law Pam Bacigalupi’s father, and close friend to Charles. Bacigalupi produces their traditional method sparkling wine with estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 

Insider Tip: It was Bacigalupi’s Chardonnay that helped put California wines on the map during the 1976 Paris Tasting, when the 1973 Château Montelena Chardonnay, which was made with 40% of Bacigalupi fruit, triumphed over many acclaimed French wines.

Tasting Fee: $40-$115
Visit: 4353 Westside Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Contact: (707) 473-0115
Reservations: Recommended, although some tastings are by reservation only

For Everyday Celebrations

Korbel Champagne Cellars

The Russian River Valley mainstay, Korbel Champagne Cellars, has been producing méthode champenoise sparkling wine since 1882. While, like Iron Horse, the wines have been served at many Presidential Inaugurations, Korbel believes that sparkling wine should be part of every kind of celebration, from milestones to small, intimate weeknights at home. Korbel also employs sustainable farming and winemaking practices and is certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers. 

Insider Tip: Grab a bite at the Korbel Delicatessen & Market, offering salads, sandwiches, and boxed lunches, as you sit on the outdoor decks among the majestic redwoods and sip a glass of your favorite Korbel sparkler. 

Tasting Fee: $25
Visit: 13250 River Road, Guerneville, CA 95446
Contact: (707) 824-7000
Reservations: First come, first served