Yes, you're coming for the wine. But guess what? That's only a small part of what Sonoma County excels in because when you have fine wine you expect everything else you eat or drink to be first-rate.
Beer
It seems when you excel at premium wine you also attract premium brewers. The trend started with Lagunitas and Russian River Brewery, but there are now over two dozen craft breweries in the county. That hoppy path stretches from Petaluma to Healdsburg with most of the breweries concentrated along that 30 miles of US 101.
Hard Cider
There was a big apple industry in Sonoma County at one time. It's been replaced by grapes, but there are still enough local apples (including one of the best--the Gravenstein) to support several cider makers.
Eating Out
Excellent wine also attracts excellent restaurants. There are too many to mention. Healdsburg, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, and Sonoma each have a couple dozen outstanding eateries.
Cheese
The western part of the county near the Pacific has thriving dairy, goat and sheep industries. This means lots of artisan cheeses. Check out Vella Cheese in Sonoma -- a local institution. Sonoma & Marin Counties have a cheese trail.
Coffee Roasters
There is some great coffee being made and served in the county. Flying Goat is arguably the best, but there are a dozen others with plenty of fans. While you're here don't do Starbucks!
Bread
Bread-making is big in Sonoma County. You know, you need bread and cheese to go wine tasting, right? Sourdough is king though there are many other breads. Costeaux French Bakery sourdough is a favorite, but there are a couple dozen bakeries with their fans.
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