Iron Horse Vineyards

"If you’re only going to one winery, go here. At the end of a rural road, on a hill overlooking undulating hills of grape vines, the “tasting room” is a simple wooden shelf, constructed outdoors. CEO Joy Sterling or winemaker David Munksgard may be pouring their sparkling wines, Pinot Noirs, and Chardonnays. This informality is especially delightful when you consider that five consecutive presidential administrations have been drinking Iron Horse wines at state dinners. (No word yet on whether the Obamas have sampled the winery’s wares, but they did receive some bottles.) The entire Sterling clan (brother Laurence and parents/owners Barry and Audrey) lives on the property, and their warm enthusiasm for the family business is infectious. For a $10 tasting fee, you can try incredible wines like the earthy, velvety 2007 Estate Pinot Noir; the unoaked, lime-y, fresh 2007 Chardonnay; or the surprisingly dry 2005 Brut Rosé sparkling wine that would make an excellent summer hostess gift."

From A West Sonoma Road Trip, By Lessley Anderson, 7/31/2009