Hanna Winery
In a region full of wineries, Hanna stands out by offering picnics under a famous oak tree and a prime location in the Russian River Valley between Santa Rosa and Sebastopol. A local favorite since the 1980s, the winery has two tasting rooms: this location and another up north in the Alexander Valley, near Healdsburg.
The Basics
Hanna is in the middle of Sonoma County wine country and can be visited on winery tours from San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, or Napa. Many travelers drive there, while those without wheels can try bike tours, Sonoma Valley wine trolleys, or private tours that offer custom itineraries—and make it easy to enjoy some wine without stressing about driving.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Neither pets nor outside drinks are allowed inside the tasting room.
- Groups of up to eight guests can picnic in the vineyard with a reservation.
- Reservations are needed for VIP seated wine tastings and wine-tasting flights.
- The winery is within biking distance from Santa Rosa—consider rental bikes if weather permits.
- Families must keep children under adult supervision at all times.
How to Get There
Hanna Winery is in the middle of Sonoma County on Occidental Road west of Santa Rosa and north of Sebastopol. While buses run from Santa Rosa to Sebastopol and the surrounding area, they’re limited and not recommended. Make it easy on yourself and drive, bike, or take a winery tour in a region made for them.
When to Get There
Though the tasting room opens in the morning, the best time to visit is during the afternoon, preferably after hiking nearby or swimming in the Russian River. Reserved wine-tasting flights are available from 10am to mid-afternoon—around 2:30pm. Weatherwise, Santa Rosa is pleasant year-round, but is warmer and drier than San Francisco.
What’s On in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa might be the best-kept secret in wine country. The mix of arts, trails, and wineries (as well as breweries) make it a destination in its own right—and an ideal base for exploring the area. In addition to visiting wineries, make sure to check out the Railroad Square Historic District, the Charles M. Schulz Museum—dedicated to the famed local cartoonist—and Trione-Annadel State Park on the eastern edge of town.