All you do need is a love of world class wines, paired with exceptional culinary treats created by Sonoma County’s top chefs. It also doesn’t hurt if you like to get down and party, since the 40 + participating wineries pull out all the corks, throwing in everything from belly dancers to safari adventures to ensure that everyone has a great time.

If you really want to do it up right, join a select group of serious foodies for the one helluva kick-off party in late April, at the acclaimed Dry Creek Kitchen and the Hotel Healdsburg with sumptuous cuisine from celebrity chef Charlie Palmer. Discover world-class small production wines from Dry Creek Valley wineries, all family-owned!

FYI: Zinfandel is the signature varietal of Dry Creek Valley, partic their old vine Zinfandel planted in the early 1900’s as well as some tasty Bordeaux and Mediterranean varietals. Attendees have the opportunity to speak to and connect with the winemakers and vineyard owners on a personal level, and learn more about the history and culture of Dry Creek Valley and its wines

*Tip: This popular event sells out so if you procrastinate you’ll be shut-out, so you’d better buy tickets in early January.

Ticket details:

Gateway to Passport—A First Class Experience: Annually in April -Friday Nite Kick-off Party.

Passport to Dry Creek Valley®—A First Class Journey activities on Saturday and Sunday combined are $150 for the two-day passport, or $75 for the Sunday only Passport.

“While there are many wine festivals around, few offer the access to winemakers and intimate tastings that Passport to Dry Creek Valley in northern Sonoma County, California, boasts.” – Jeanne O’Brien Coffey, Forbes 

“The great part is that unlike many other multi-winery tasting events, this one has a long-standing tradition. When buying your ticket, you also choose which winery you would like to pick your passport up at, which spreads the crowds over the entire valley.” – Esther Tseng, E*Star LA

“After your lunch and/or dinner is complete, you have the whole passport-y weekend to look forward to…Add to all of this the exquisite April-ness of Dry Creek Valley, with everything in early bud and bloom, and you have a prelude not just to a wine-nice weekend but, also, to one of the best times of year in the area.” – Alysia Gray Painter, NBC Bay Area