Wine Road: The Wine, When, and Where of Northern Sonoma County.

The Wine Road provides the Wine, When and Where of Northern Sonoma to locals and visitors with tips and news on events, wineries, restaurants, outdoor activities, and places to stay.

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 239 - Jacob Mounts 11/06/2025

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 239 - Jacob Mounts Welcome to Wine Road, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa. Thanks to Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards for supporting the podcast. Check out for their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. (0:49 - 1:37) Episode 239 features Jacob Mounts, Winery and Vineyard Manager at Jacob, 25, represents the new generation of winemakers. His mother suggested he join the show to share insights from a younger perspective. (1:38 - 2:48) Jacob introduces the 2022 Italian Affair, a blend of Barbera and Teroldego. The unique combination offers juiciness and balance. The name stems from his father’s decision to plant Italian varietals, which his mother jokingly called "cheating" on their Rhone roots. (2:49 - 5:25) Mounts Family Winery grows 35 varietals, including Rhone, Italian, Spanish, and Bordeaux grapes. Jacob explains the importance of experimenting with heat-tolerant varietals like Tempranillo and Touriga Nacional to adapt to climate change and appeal to younger wine drinkers. (5:26 - 7:08) Jacob emphasizes the importance of balance in winemaking, crediting his father’s skill. He shares his passion for structured wines and his desire to expand the winery’s production. (7:09 - 9:14) Jacob reflects on leaving the wine industry at 18 to explore other careers, including mechanics and commercial fishing in Alaska. His time away gave him a renewed appreciation for winemaking and the natural beauty of vineyards. (9:15 - 12:21) Jacob discusses the challenges of engaging younger wine drinkers, citing high tasting fees and lack of approachability. He advocates for making wine fun and accessible, encouraging people to enjoy it however they like. (12:22 - 14:45) The conversation shifts to the importance of storytelling in wine. Jacob believes sharing the history and personal stories behind a bottle creates a deeper connection for consumers, especially younger generations. (14:46 - 18:07) Jacob shares how introducing wine to friends in Alaska sparked their interest. He highlights the role of peer influence in making wine more appealing to younger audiences. (18:08 - 21:06) Jacob talks about his family’s Rhone roots and their Viognier, which expresses stone fruit and honeysuckle notes. He also praises Grenache and Cab Franc as standout varietals in their portfolio. (21:07 - 24:00) Mounts Family Winery is open for tastings by appointment during the week and walk-ins on weekends. Jacob and his mother personally host tastings, offering a welcoming and intimate experience. (24:01 - 28:07) Jacob shares his passion for brandy and distilled spirits, mentioning his first barrel of brandy aging for 10 years. He enjoys exploring local artisanal producers and learning from their craft. (28:08 - 33:32) The hosts praise the winery’s scenic location and encourage listeners to visit. Jacob highlights their new label designs, which represent their evolving portfolio. (33:33 - 37:53) The discussion touches on the beauty of Sonoma County year-round and the importance of slowing down to enjoy the scenery. Jacob expresses gratitude for being part of the wine community. (37:54 - 42:07) Beth promotes upcoming Wine Road events, including Winter Wineland and the Holiday Wine Trail, which supports the Redwood Empire Food Bank. She encourages listeners to explore the auction on wineroad.com. (42:08 - 44:32) Jacob thanks the hosts for the opportunity to share his story. The hosts commend his passion and authenticity, encouraging him to continue inspiring younger generations. Links: /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/38525960

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 238 - Elaina Dimond and John Duckett from Trione Vineyards & Winery 10/23/2025

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 238 - Elaina Dimond and John Duckett from Trione Vineyards & Winery Podcast Summary: Wine Road Episode 238 Welcome to Episode 238 of the Wine Road podcast, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa, with special thanks to Ron Rubin and for their support. This episode features guests Elaina Dimond, Direct Sales and Hospitality Manager, and John Duckett, Winemaker at Highlights: Introduction (0:49 - 1:12): Elaina and John join the show to discuss Trione Vineyards and Winery. They clarify the pronunciation of "Trione" and share a laugh about common mispronunciations. John's First Vintage (1:16 - 2:32): John shares the story of his first vintage at Trione, a 2023 Cabernet Franc. This small-lot wine, bottled exclusively for wine club members, represents his first red wine under his winemaking leadership. He explains the decision to keep this special lot separate from their usual Henry’s Blend. John's Journey to Winemaking (2:47 - 4:13): John recounts his unique path to winemaking, starting as a competitive swimmer at UC Davis before discovering the viticulture program through a table grape growing class. He reflects on his 12 years at Jordan Winery before joining Trione in 2023. Trione's History (8:24 - 10:30): The Trione family has been a part of Sonoma County since 1947. John shares how Henry Trione started in mortgages and later invested in land and vineyards, eventually amassing 1,000 acres (now 600). The family’s contributions to the community include the 5,000-acre Trione Annadel State Park and other philanthropic efforts. Winery Experiences (11:31 - 13:23): Elaina and John discuss the unique tasting experiences at Trione, including vineyard tours via golf carts and curated flights showcasing wines from their various vineyard properties across Sonoma County. They emphasize the importance of connecting visitors to the land and the winemaking process. Upcoming Events (18:02 - 23:00): Trione is hosting several events, including: Aroma, Sensory, and Blind Tasting (November 8th): Guests will use black glasses to train their senses and identify wine aromas. Barrel Demonstration (December 13th): A live demonstration of barrel-making and toasting. Soups and Sweaters Soiree (December 6th): A casual, fun event with wine and seasonal vibes. Trione's Small Production (26:09 - 29:03): Despite its impressive facilities, Trione is a boutique winery producing only 7,000 cases annually. They focus on five main wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Henry’s Blend, and Block 21 Cabernet Sauvignon. John highlights their meticulous vineyard management and commitment to showcasing the unique characteristics of their vineyards. Community and Fun (33:03 - 37:00): Elaina and John share their love for Sonoma County, from coastal trips to farmer’s markets. They also discuss Trione’s casual, welcoming atmosphere, encouraging locals and visitors to enjoy picnics, bocce, and wine in their beautiful setting. Closing Notes (38:00 - 39:46): Beth highlights the Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza as a great lodging option and reminds listeners about the upcoming Wine & Food Affair (November 1-2), featuring wine and food pairings at 50 wineries. This episode captures the passion, history, and community spirit of Trione Vineyards and Winery, making it a must-visit destination in Sonoma County. Thanks to: Ron Rubin and – for their financial support Richard Ross and – for making us sound so darn good! Links from today: /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/38150650

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 237 - Julie Pedroncelli St. John 10/09/2025

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 237 - Julie Pedroncelli St. John Podcast Summary: Wine Road Episode 237 Welcome to another episode of Wine Road, hosted by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa, with special thanks to Ron Rubin and for their support. This episode features Julie Pedroncelli St. John, President and CEO of and newly elected President of The Wine Road. Highlights: Pedroncelli Winery's Legacy: Julie shares the rich history of her family-owned winery, which is nearing its 100th anniversary. She reflects on the winery's evolution, including their focus on Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and the recent release of their Block 10 Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine showcases the best of Dry Creek Valley with its layered flavors and elegant tannins. Winery Updates: Julie discusses the winery's refreshed tasting room, complete with new landscaping, rock walls inspired by her great uncle's original designs, and a peaceful vineyard-view pergola. Visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere with Adirondack chairs and picnic-friendly spaces. Upcoming Events: Pedroncelli Winery is hosting a harvest celebration in October, offering an immersive experience where guests can taste freshly picked grapes, sample wines from the tank, and witness the winemaking process firsthand. 50 Years of The Wine Road: Julie celebrates the upcoming 50th anniversary of The Wine Road, highlighting the collaboration among wineries to promote the region. She emphasizes the importance of the iconic Wine Road map, a resource for visitors planning their adventures in Sonoma County. Personal Stories: Julie shares fond memories of growing up at the winery, from picking grapes as a child to working alongside her family. She also talks about her love for road trips, including her favorite drive along Highway 395 and visits to hidden gems like the ghost town of Bodie. Lodging Spotlight: Beth highlights the Geyserville Inn, a charming hotel surrounded by vineyards, offering a pool, on-site dining, and proximity to local tasting rooms and attractions. Wine and Food Affair: The hosts remind listeners to grab tickets for the Wine and Food Affair, happening November 1-2, where 50 wineries will pair wines with delicious recipes. Julie’s passion for her family’s legacy and the wine community shines throughout the episode, making it a must-listen for wine enthusiasts planning a visit to Sonoma County. Thanks to: Ron Rubin and - for their financial support Richard Ross and - for making us sound so darn good! Links from today: Harvest Activities at Pedroncelli - /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/38150545

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 236 - Our Summer Vacation 09/25/2025

Wine Road Podcast - Episode 236 - Our Summer Vacation The podcast begins with hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa introducing the show and expressing gratitude to their sponsor, Ron Rubin, for supporting the podcast. They also thank River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their financial backing, which allows them to keep sharing stories and sipping wine. Just like in elementary school...we talk about what we did on our summer vacation :-) The episode, number 236, focuses on recapping their summer adventures in Sonoma County and beyond. Richard Ross, their engineer, kicks things off by sharing his first-ever road trip in an electric vehicle through the Eastern Sierras. He recounts stops at South Lake Tahoe, Bridgeport, Bodie ghost town, Mono Lake, and Mammoth Mountain, highlighting the beauty of the snow-covered Sierras and the challenges of finding EV chargers in remote areas. Along the way, he enjoyed local wines, quirky dining experiences, and even visited the Western Film Museum in Lone Pine. Beth shares her summer highlights, including frequent trips to Eureka to visit family, where she enjoyed the zoo, a stunning dahlia garden, and local wine. Marcy on the other hand, attended major events like Taste of Sonoma, the Sonoma County Fair (featuring the chaotic and hilarious Corgi races), and the Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol, which showcased local apples, cider, and artisan goods. She describes the fair’s expanded layout, bustling crowds, and delicious treats like apple fritters. Marcy reflects on her summer filled with wine-related activities, including the Big West Wine Fest, which focused on natural wines, and the Sonoma County Fair’s grape stomp. She also enjoyed beach picnics, hiking at Jenner Headlands, and participating in a summer reading program, where she read 15 books. The hosts also discuss their efforts to deliver updated Wine Road maps to local wineries, with Beth noting the beauty of driving through Sonoma County’s wine regions. They highlight Guerneville’s Dawn Ranch as a charming lodging option surrounded by redwoods, perfect for weddings or family reunions. Marcy shares her experience taking a pickling class in Sebastopol, adding to her growing list of homemaking skills, and encourages listeners to explore similar workshops. The episode wraps up with a shoutout to Ron Rubin for sponsoring another year of the podcast, ensuring they can continue sharing their love for Sonoma County wine and culture. The hosts encourage listeners to visit the region, sip Sonoma wines, and enjoy all the unique experiences the area has to offer. Mentions: /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/38080155

Episode 235 - Tom Buckley, GM Hotel La Rose 09/11/2025

Episode 235 - Tom Buckley, GM Hotel La Rose Special Thanks to... Ron Rubin / - for their financial support Richard Ross / - for the amazing sound engineering In this episode of Wine Road, Marci Gordon and Beth Costa chat with Tom Buckley, the General Manager of Hotel La Rose in Santa Rosa and a new board member of The Wine Road. They kick things off by thanking their sponsors, Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards and Winery, for keeping the podcast going. Tom shares the rich history of Hotel La Rose, a boutique hotel located in the historic railroad district of Santa Rosa. Built in 1907, the hotel boasts unique architecture with stone brought in from eastern Santa Rosa. The property features 29 individually designed rooms in the main building and a charming carriage house with balconies, patios, and a courtyard that’s perfect for group gatherings. Its central location makes it a great spot for visitors, with restaurants, shops, and even the train station just steps away. The conversation highlights the hotel’s outdoor venue, which is ideal for weddings and events, and the convenience of the nearby SMART train, which brings visitors from the Bay Area. Tom reflects on his journey in hospitality, his love for the boutique hotel experience, and the importance of connecting with guests. He also praises Grossman’s, the Jewish deli located in the hotel, for its delicious food and bakery offerings. Beth and Tom discuss the many reasons people visit Sonoma County, from wine tasting to exploring the coast, redwoods, and local attractions like Safari West. They also touch on the idea of hosting a Farmer’s Market at the hotel’s outdoor venue and the popularity of events like the Pliny the Younger beer release. The episode wraps up with Beth’s “hidden winery” segment, giving listeners clues about a winery in Dry Creek Valley known for its fumé blanc, and a reminder to check out the Harvest Wine Trail, featuring 30 wineries and unique harvest experiences. Tom encourages everyone to visit Hotel La Rose, calling it the perfect base for exploring Sonoma County. Thanks to: - for our amazing sound recording! Mentions: Pliney the Younger - /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/38079925

Episode 234 - Spicy Vines owner, Chrystalyn Hackett 08/28/2025

Episode 234 - Spicy Vines owner, Chrystalyn Hackett In this episode of Wine Road, hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa (0:00-0:24) introduce the show and thank sponsors and for their support. They welcome Crystalyn Hackett, owner of Spicy Vines, as their guest (0:49-1:00). Crystalyn shares her excitement about being on the show and introduces a spiced wine she brought, which ties into her personal story and the origins of Spicy Vines (1:23-2:55). The wine, described as "Christmas in a glass," is a blend of Grenache, Zinfandel, Carignan, and Petite Syrah, infused with holiday spices and a hint of brandy, evoking cozy, festive feelings (2:05-2:33). Crystalyn recounts her journey, starting with her time as a competitive equestrian in Germany, where she realized her entrepreneurial aspirations (3:08-4:46). After traveling and brainstorming ideas, she returned to California and created her first spiced wine, inspired by a drink she had in Germany (6:00-7:16). Despite having no prior experience in the wine industry, she spent a year perfecting the formula and navigating regulatory challenges to define and legally categorize "spiced wine" (8:03-9:22). Crystalyn explains how she built Spicy Vines from scratch, starting with events in San Francisco and eventually partnering with her now-husband, Doug, who became the winemaker (10:29-11:19). Together, they expanded their portfolio to include Zinfandel, Syrah, rosé, and other varietals, focusing on high-quality, small-batch production (12:12-13:07). Their Healdsburg tasting room, opened in 2016, offers a lively atmosphere with live music, wine cocktails, and charcuterie (13:13-14:22). Crystalyn emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming, fun experience for visitors and wine club members, offering customizable memberships and personal touches like follow-ups and curated shipments (17:00-24:41). She also teases plans to launch her own podcast to share inspiring stories and connect with others (24:42-25:35). The episode wraps up with details about Spicy Vines' unique "winning cork" promotion and upcoming events, including their harvest release party and annual "Taste of Pine Mountain" event (25:36-27:00). The hosts close by encouraging listeners to visit Spicy Vines and keep it spicy (29:33-30:05). LINKS: - the lodging property featured today - tickets to on sale today - our last mystery "where am I winery" Sponsor: Credits: The Wine Road podcast is mixed and mastered at  Threshold Studios Sebastopol, CA. /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/37971030

Episode 233 - Trentadue Winemaker Miro Tcholakou 08/14/2025

Episode 233 - Trentadue Winemaker Miro Tcholakou Wine Road Podcast Episode 233 Summary Hosts Marci Gordon and Beth Costa welcome Miro Tcholakov, winemaker at Trentadue Winery, for a lively discussion about wine, winemaking, and his journey in the industry. Key Highlights: Featured Wines: Miro introduces a Rosé of Sangiovese (Rosato) and a Sauvignon Blanc under the La Storia label. The Rosato is made using the "bleeding" method from old and new vineyards, while the Sauvignon Blanc marks a shift in branding for Trentadue. Winery Overview: Trentadue Winery, located in Geyserville, is one of Sonoma County's oldest wineries, bonded in 1969. Miro has been with the winery for 26 years, overseeing significant updates and producing estate-grown wines like Sangiovese, Malbec, and Montepulciano. Miro’s Background: Originally from Bulgaria, Miro shares stories of his winemaking roots, including childhood memories of family winemaking and his early career in the U.S. He started his own label, Miro Cellars, focusing on Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. Events at Trentadue: Upcoming events include the Taste Destination 128 Barbecue Cook-Off (Aug 23) and the Lobster Feast (Sept 13). The winery also offers gondola vineyard tours and hosts weddings. Cultural Insights: Miro reflects on his upbringing in Bulgaria, his family’s winemaking traditions, and his adventurous spirit, including spelunking expeditions in Europe. Additional Mentions: Lodging Recommendation: The Stavrand in Guerneville, a luxurious property surrounded by redwoods, was highlighted for visitors. Harvest Wine Trail: A one-day event on Sept 12 featuring 30 wineries offering unique harvest experiences. Miro’s passion for winemaking and storytelling shines throughout the episode, making it a delightful listen for wine enthusiasts. LINKS: Sponsor: Credits: The Wine Road podcast is mixed and mastered at  Threshold Studios Sebastopol, CA. /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/37819090

Episode 232 - Beth & Marcy chat about their recent adventures 07/31/2025

Episode 232 - Beth & Marcy chat about their recent adventures Podcast Title: Wine Road – Episode 232 Hosts: Marcy Gordon & Beth Costa This show is made possible by the generous financial support of , and Ron Rubin. Overview: This episode is a mix of updates, wine adventures, and local highlights from Sonoma County. The hosts share personal experiences, wine insights, and community happenings, all while sipping on sparkling wine from West Wines. Key Highlights: Wine Writers Educational Tour: Marcy recounts her experience on a deep-dive wine tour organized by Fred Swan. The tour explored Sonoma County’s wine regions, including visits to wineries like J. Vineyards, Gary Farrell, and Fort Ross Vineyard. Marcy rediscovered her love for Sonoma County, appreciating its beauty, terroir, and community. The tour included seminars, tastings, and interactions with winemakers, offering a detailed look at Sonoma’s diverse AVAs. Zinfandel Throwdown: Beth shares her experience at Dry Creek Vineyard’s annual Zinfandel Throwdown. Winemakers from the region participated in a blind tasting to crown the best Zinfandel. This year’s winner was Baca Wines, with Dry Creek Vineyard and Mauritsen taking second and third place. Local Gems: Marcy highlights Gather, a new store in Sebastopol focused on home arts like canning, knitting, and preserving. She attended a lemon-preserving class and shared her creations. Beth celebrates The Beat restaurant in Cloverdale, recently named one of Sonoma County’s top 20 restaurants. Book Recommendation: Marcy recommends 1000 Vines: A New Way to Understand Wine by Pasqueline Le Pelletier, praising its holistic and literary approach to wine education. Upcoming Event: Tickets for The Wine and Food Affair (first weekend of November) will go on sale around August 30th. Closing Notes: Beth encourages listeners to explore Marcy’s blog (ComeForTheWine.com) for more wine stories and insights. LINKS: Sponsor: Credits: The Wine Road podcast is mixed and mastered at  Threshold Studios Sebastopol, CA. /episode/index/show/wineroadpodcast/id/37514980