If you’re looking for a place to unwind after work, spend an afternoon, or a spot to impress your date, we’ve got the intimate details on where you can indulge in a glass of red, white, or rosé.
Donkey and Goat
1340 5th Street, Berkeley
Station: Berkeley
The owners behind these wines have made it their priority to keep their grapes, and their wines, sustainably grown and processed. Donkey and Goat is a functioning winery so visitors have the opportunity to observe and learn first-hand about the wine making process. This urban winery features a tasting room and a “yard” with games and picnic tables to share a glass with your special someone.
Hidden Vine
408 Merchant Street, San Francisco
Station: Emeryville to Connecting San Francisco Bus
If you’re a fan of Bay Area wine bars, you’ve probably heard of the Hidden Vine; it’s been on Top 10 lists for the past six years. Make some time for a glass after work, or if you’re planning an overnight stay in San Francisco, linger a little longer. Hidden Vine is cozy and chic, while exuding a moody yet friendly vibe. With nearly 200 bottles on the list, you are bound to find something that appeals to your palate.
J Lohr Vineyards & Wines
1000 Lenzen Avenue, San Jose
Station: San Jose Diridon
On a budget? The tastings here are free so they won’t put a dent in your wallet! What’s even better is these wines have a low impact on the environment. As one of the first sustainably certified winemakers in California, J Lohr minimizes chemical and water usage in their vineyards, while the business division continually aims to reduce the carbon footprint of shipping and packaging. So whether you’re a party of one, table for two, or you’re taking the whole office out, don’t pass this place by.
Putah Creek Winery
110 F Street Suite D, Davis
Station: Davis
Co-founded by a UC Davis alum, this winery is local to the Davis area. Not only do they provide quality wine to the community, but the winery donates a portion of all bottle sales on Tuesdays to a different, socially-minded organization each month. With a quaint tasting room nestled right downtown, it’s an obvious choice – swipe right!
Revolution Winery & Kitchen
2831 S Street, Sacramento
Station: Sacramento
Don’t miss this opportunity to pair your love of wine and your love of food. At Revolution Winery & Kitchen you will find a farm-to-fork and farm-to-glass commitment, as ingredients and grapes are sourced from local farms and vineyards. Wine is made on location and highlights the region’s terroir on the flavor of the fruit. An added bonus is that the menu features food and wine that complement each other, so there’s no need to study up on food and wine pairings before making a reservation.
Brooklyn Winery West
201 3rd Street, Oakland
Station: Oakland Jack London
As you’re led through the tastings at Brooklyn Winery West, you will understand the love and devotion the winemakers put into each of the small batches they produce. This urban winery doesn’t have its own vineyards, but instead has cultivated open relationships with vineyards around the state to allow for new surprises and creations. The modern tasting room welcomes both seasoned wine lovers and those new to the scene. Whether you’re looking for an intimate evening or you’ve got a group to entertain, this is a pour that won’t disappoint.
Photo by Kelsey Knight