Red, White, and Zin
Dry Creek Valley knows how to throw a party. In celebration of America’s Heritage Wine, they hosted All-American Zin Day. Wineries and staff were decked out in red, white, and blue and served up food, wine, and music. It was the perfect excuse for an excursion to sunny Healdsburg for a wine and food adventure.
Dry Creek Valley is best known for their Zinfandel, but 40 other varietals thrive in the area. Many of the wineries are small, family-owned operations. You are likely to be interacting with the owner, family member, or winemaker when you visit, which provides for a more satisfying wine experience.
Five wineries participated in the day’s festivities serving up Zinfandel and some of their other favorites, including barbecued chicken, pulled pork, ribs, sausages, and steak.
At Rued Winery, we enjoyed a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon along with Zinfandel and grilled chicken. The owners were very much in evidence at the grill and in the tasting room. We chatted with other guests at tables overlooking the vineyard while appreciating the perfect pairing of food with their award-winning wines. And for dessert, a commercial ice-cream machine dispensed cones.
The next stop was Family Wineries, a collection of six wineries housed in one tasting room. Outside they served tri-tip steak to complement their array of Zinfandel. Across the parking lot was Kokomo Winery with a rustic tasting room and knowledgeable staff. They were serving pulled pork with cole slaw and decadent chocolate brownies. Their award-winning wines were delicious, especially the Zinfandel.
When we arrived at Mazzocco-Sonoma the party was in full swing, with a live band entertaining guests. They served skirt steak along with their notable Zinfandels. The tasting room was filled to capacity, and visitors enjoyed live music on their vast lawn. They also host a summer music series on their grounds.
Wilson Winery, one of the larger wineries, drew a big crowd. They were serving sausages and apple pie along with a selection of Zinfandel and additional whites and reds. Their shaded deck with valley views was the place to be for food, wine, and live music.
Dry Creek Valley is the ideal destination for wine and food lovers. The wine region boasts over 60 wineries, many of which are owned by multi-generational wine families. Enjoy farm-to-table fare at one of the gourmet restaurants located downtown. Read “Savoring Wine in Dry Creek Valley” to learn more about wineries, restaurants and lodging suggestions. To learn more about wineries to visit see the Winegrowers of Dry Creek Valley website.
