The Sonoma Valley runs north from Sonoma town to the top of Sugarloaf Ridge — 17 miles of wine country that is smaller, more varied, and easier to navigate than Napa. The valley appellations include Sonoma Valley AVA, Carneros (shared with Napa), and the Moon Mountain and Sonoma Mountain sub-appellations on the valley walls. Pinot noir, chardonnay, and zinfandel are the strengths; the volcanic soils of the mountain vineyards produce intense, structured reds.
Buena Vista Winery on Old Winery Road just outside town is the historic starting point and offers good cave tours. Benziger Family Winery in Glen Ellen runs excellent biodynamic farm tours. For tasting without driving, the plaza has six tasting rooms within walking distance, though the appointment-required policy at many wineries means planning ahead pays off on weekends.