Hello from wine country!

The holiday season is a magical time in wine country, where time-honored traditions blend seamlessly with the region’s renowned wine culture. Whether you're a local or planning a holiday getaway, these festive activities are sure to get you into the spirit of the season.

Here are the top 10 traditional holiday traditions in wine country:

1. Holiday Open Houses at Wineries

Many wineries deck their halls and open their doors for festive open houses. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, holiday treats, and exclusive discounts on their favorite bottles. It’s a perfect way to stock up on gifts for the wine lovers in your life.

2. Winemaker's Holiday Dinners

These intimate dinners pair seasonal dishes with perfectly curated wine selections. Often hosted by the winemakers themselves, these events provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into their craft while celebrating the season with gourmet cuisine.

3. Holiday Crafts Workshops

Put a wine country twist on your holiday décor by crafting a wreath from grapevines. These workshops, such as wreath making or centerpiece making are popular in wine regions and often include wine sips and festive snacks as you create your masterpiece.

 

 

4. Holiday Light Tours

From vineyard-adorned twinkle lights to charmingly lit wine country towns, the holiday lights in wine country are a must-see. The lighted trees and buildings bring some twinkle to those short days and romantic evenings.

Some regions, like Yountville, California even offer guided tours through the most scenic spots.

5. Barrel Tasting Weekends

Holiday barrel tasting events give visitors a chance to sample wines straight from the barrel. It’s an exclusive opportunity to taste future vintages and learn about the winemaking process directly from the experts.

 

6. Festive Wine Pairing Events

Celebrate the holidays with curated wine pairing experiences featuring seasonal dishes or holiday desserts. These events often inspire guests to create their own perfect pairings at home.

 

7. Small Town Holiday Markets

Charming towns in wine country host holiday markets featuring local artisans, specialty foods, and, of course, wine. Strolling through these markets with a glass of mulled wine in hand is an idyllic way to shop for unique gifts.

 

 

8. Vineyard Sleigh Rides

Some wine regions take holiday magic to the next level with vineyard sleigh rides. These tours, often accompanied by blankets and warm drinks, offer a cozy way to enjoy the winter scenery.

 

9. Holiday Concerts in the Vineyards

Celebrate the season with live music set against the backdrop of vineyards. These concerts often feature holiday classics, creating an enchanting evening under the stars or in beautifully decorated barrel rooms.

 

10. Winter Wine Tasting Passports 

Many wine regions host multi-day events like Winter Wineland in Sonoma County, where participating wineries offer themed tastings, festive activities, and holiday cheer. It’s a perfect way to explore the region while celebrating the season.

 

Book a Romantic Getaway

Wine country during the holidays is a truly enchanting destination. From cozy sleigh rides to vibrant markets and gourmet dinners, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the festive spirit, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Cheers to a joyous holiday season filled with great wine, laughter, and togetherness!

-The Silver Fox

 

 

Holiday Season Events

With harvest here, we've got a fantastic line up events. So, get out and raise a glass with us in wine country!