Matanzas Creek Winery: A Guide to Sonoma County's Premier Wine Destination

Matanzas Creek Winery, located in the heart of Bennett Valley in Sonoma County, California, is a family-owned and operated winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over 40 years. The winery is known for its Bordeaux-style reds, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. Matanzas Creek Winery also features beautiful lavender gardens that are famous for their aromatic and medicinal properties.

The winery's estate grounds are expansive and offer a captivating setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the unique Bennett Valley wines. Visitors can book a tasting and experience the rustic country charm and refined quality of the winery. The spacious estate features an eclectic mix of gardens, pathways, and terraces, and the outdoor patio offers stunning views of the vineyards. Matanzas Creek Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of Sonoma County.

History and Overview

Matanzas Creek Winery is a renowned estate located in the picturesque Bennett Valley of Sonoma County, California. The winery was established in 1977 by Sandra MacIver, an enterprising socialite, and Merry Edwards, the founding winemaker. Since then, the estate has established deep roots in Sonoma County, producing some of the finest wines in the region.

Matanzas Creek Winery is known for its Sauvignon Blanc, which was first produced in 1980. The winery was an early pioneer in this varietal, and stands today as an expert in its production. The estate has also gained recognition for its Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The wines produced here are known for their elegance, complexity, and balance.

The winery is located in a zen-inspired oasis, surrounded by lavender fields and gardens. The unique character and beauty of the estate have earned it worldwide recognition as a premier California wine country destination. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tranquil surroundings, and learn about the winemaking process from the knowledgeable staff.

Matanzas Creek Winery is part of the Jackson Family Wines portfolio, a family-owned and operated company with a rich pedigree in winemaking. The estate is committed to sustainable farming practices, and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The estate's dedication to quality and sustainability has earned it numerous accolades and awards over the years.

In summary, Matanzas Creek Winery is a world-class estate with a rich history and pedigree in winemaking. Its commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation has earned it a reputation as one of the finest wineries in Sonoma County.

Wine Portfolio

Matanzas Creek Winery is known for its exceptional wines that are crafted with precision and care. The winery produces a variety of wines that cater to the diverse tastes of wine enthusiasts. Here is a breakdown of their wine portfolio:

Red Wines

Matanzas Creek Winery offers a selection of red wines that are rich, complex, and full-bodied. Their Merlot is a standout wine that is known for its depth and balance. It has aromas of black cherry, vanilla, and spice, and a smooth finish that lingers on the palate. The Pinot Noir is another popular red wine that is known for its bright fruit flavors and delicate tannins. It has notes of raspberry, cherry, and cranberry, and a silky texture that makes it a pleasure to drink.

The Red Blends are a unique offering from Matanzas Creek Winery. These wines are a combination of different grape varietals that are blended together to create a complex and flavorful wine. The Jackson Estate Red Blend is a standout wine that is made with a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec. It has aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla, and a rich, full-bodied flavor that is sure to please.

White Wines

Matanzas Creek Winery is best known for its Sauvignon Blanc, a refreshing and crisp white wine that is perfect for warm summer days. It has aromas of grapefruit, lime, and passionfruit, and a bright acidity that makes it a great pairing for seafood and salads. The Chardonnay is another popular white wine that is known for its buttery texture and rich flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla. It has a long, smooth finish that is sure to please.

Specialty Bottles

Matanzas Creek Winery also offers a selection of specialty bottles that are perfect for special occasions or as gifts. The Journey is a limited edition wine that is made with a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec. It has aromas of black cherry, cassis, and vanilla, and a rich, full-bodied flavor that is sure to impress. The Helena Montana Chardonnay is another standout wine that is made with grapes from a single vineyard in the Russian River Valley. It has a rich, creamy texture and flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla.

Overall, Matanzas Creek Winery offers a diverse and exceptional wine portfolio that is sure to please wine enthusiasts of all tastes.

Vineyards and Sustainability

Matanzas Creek Winery prides itself on its commitment to sustainability. The winery has a number of estate vineyards located throughout Sonoma County, which are carefully tended to ensure the highest quality grapes for their wines.

Estate Vineyards

One of the winery's most notable vineyards is the Jackson Park Vineyard, which is located in the Bennett Valley AVA. This vineyard is home to some of the winery's most prized grapes, including its Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot varietals. The vineyard is situated on a hillside, which allows for excellent drainage and sun exposure, resulting in grapes with exceptional flavor and complexity.

Sustainably-Farmed Practices

Matanzas Creek Winery is committed to sustainable farming practices, which are designed to protect the environment and ensure the long-term health of the vineyards. The winery uses a number of techniques to achieve this goal, including cover crops, composting, and integrated pest management.

All of the winery's fruit comes from sustainably-farmed, estate vineyards scattered throughout the mild interior and cool coastal AVAs of the county. In addition, the winery was one of the first to feature the Certified California Sustainable logo on label with the 2017 vintage, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices.

In conclusion, Matanzas Creek Winery's estate vineyards and sustainably-farmed practices are a testament to the winery's commitment to quality and environmental responsibility. The winery's dedication to sustainability ensures that their wines are not only delicious, but also produced in a way that is responsible and respectful of the environment.

Visiting the Winery

If you are looking for a memorable wine-tasting experience, Matanzas Creek Winery is a must-visit destination. The winery is located in the remote but breathtakingly beautiful Bennett Valley region of Sonoma County. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Tasting Room Experience

Matanzas Creek Winery offers a unique tasting room experience that showcases the best of rustic country charm and refined quality. Visitors can taste the unique Bennett Valley wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. The tasting room is open to the public from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and reservations are recommended to ensure availability.

Tours and Amenities

In addition to wine tasting, Matanzas Creek Winery offers a range of tours and amenities to enhance your visit. Visitors can take a virtual tour of the estate, participate in a Lavender Market, or attend one of the winery's many events. The estate grounds are captivating and offer a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the wine and scenery.

Events and Membership

Matanzas Creek Winery offers a variety of events throughout the year, including wine tastings, food pairings, and live music. The winery also offers a membership program that provides exclusive access to limited production wines, discounts on purchases, and invitations to members-only events.

Whether you are a wine enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Matanzas Creek Winery is a destination worth visiting. With its stunning location, exceptional wine, and range of amenities, it is sure to be a memorable experience.

Lavender Gardens

Matanzas Creek Winery is renowned for its picturesque lavender gardens that offer visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lavender gardens at Matanzas Creek Winery are a sight to behold and are a true testament to the beauty of Mother Nature.

Lavender Fields

The lavender fields at Matanzas Creek Winery are a popular attraction for visitors. The fields are meticulously maintained and are a stunning sight to behold. Visitors can take a stroll through the fields and enjoy the beauty of the lavender plants up close. The lavender fields are a great place to take photos and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Bloom Season

The lavender plants at Matanzas Creek Winery bloom in late June to early July. During this time, the lavender fields are a sea of purple and the air is filled with the sweet scent of lavender. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lavender fields during bloom season and learn about the history and cultivation of lavender.

Matanzas Creek Winery takes great pride in its lavender gardens and is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the area. The lavender gardens at Matanzas Creek Winery are a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.

Culinary Experience

Food Pairings

Matanzas Creek Winery offers a variety of food pairing options to complement their wines. The winery's tasting room provides a selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to pair with their wines. The cheese and charcuterie selection is sourced from local producers, and the tasting room staff can provide recommendations on which wines pair best with each selection.

In addition to the cheese and charcuterie options, Matanzas Creek Winery also offers a honey tasting experience. The honey is sourced from the winery's own beehives and is paired with their wines to create a unique tasting experience. The honey tasting is a great option for those looking for a sweeter pairing with their wine.

Local Products

Matanzas Creek Winery is committed to supporting local producers and offers a variety of local products in their tasting room. The winery features a selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from local producers, as well as honey from their own beehives.

For those looking to enjoy a picnic on the winery's beautiful grounds, the tasting room also offers a selection of local products to create the perfect picnic spread. The winery's staff can provide recommendations on which wines pair best with the local products available for purchase.

Overall, Matanzas Creek Winery's commitment to supporting local producers and providing unique culinary experiences make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.

Recreational Activities

Bocce Ball

Matanzas Creek Winery offers a fun activity for visitors to enjoy while they are at the winery. The winery has a bocce ball court where guests can play the classic Italian game. Bocce ball is a game of skill and strategy that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It involves rolling a ball towards a target ball, and the player who gets their ball closest to the target ball wins. The bocce ball court at Matanzas Creek Winery is located in a beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by vineyards and gardens. The court is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and guests can borrow bocce balls from the tasting room.

Picnicking Options

Matanzas Creek Winery is a great place to enjoy a picnic with friends and family. The winery has several picnic areas where guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful setting. The picnic areas are located in the gardens and vineyards, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can bring their own food and drinks, or they can purchase a picnic basket from the tasting room. The picnic baskets come with a selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and other delicious treats. The winery also offers a variety of wines that pair well with picnic food.

In conclusion, Matanzas Creek Winery offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. The bocce ball court and picnic areas are great options for those who want to have some fun and relax in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Winery Information

Contact Details

Matanzas Creek Winery is located in Santa Rosa, California. The winery can be contacted at 800.590.6464 or via email at info@matanzascreek.com. The physical address of the winery is 6097 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404.

Visiting Hours

Matanzas Creek Winery is open for visitors from Monday to Sunday, between 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the winery and take part in the wine tasting sessions. The winery is closed on major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. It is advisable to check the winery's website or call ahead to confirm visiting hours.

Website and Online Presence

Matanzas Creek Winery has a well-designed website that provides information about the winery's history, wine portfolio, and events. The website also allows visitors to purchase wine online and join the wine club. The winery is active on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, where they post updates about the winery and its events. Visitors can follow the winery's social media accounts to stay up-to-date with the latest news and events.

Matanzas Creek Winery is known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot wines. The winery's tasting room offers a six-wine tasting experience that includes both white and red wines. The winery's estate features sustainably-farmed vineyards, beautiful gardens, and spectacular lavender fields. The winery is open to visitors throughout the year, and the visiting hours are subject to change based on the season. Visitors are advised to check the winery's website or call ahead to confirm visiting hours.

Customer Engagement

Matanzas Creek Winery is committed to providing its customers with a unique and engaging experience. One of the ways they achieve this is through their Wine Club, which offers exclusive access to their best wines and special events.

Wine Club

Membership to the Matanzas Creek Wine Club provides members with a host of benefits, including a selection of four, six, or twelve bottles shipped directly to their door three times per year in February, May, and October. Members also receive exclusive access to limited production wines, invitations to members-only events, and discounts on all purchases.

The Wine Club offers three different levels of membership, each with its own set of benefits. The "Explore" level is perfect for those who are new to the winery and want to try a variety of wines. The "Sample" level is for those who have already tried Matanzas Creek wines and want to explore more of their offerings. The "Collect" level is for serious collectors who want access to the winery's most exclusive wines.

Exclusive Discounts

In addition to the benefits of the Wine Club, Matanzas Creek Winery offers exclusive discounts to its members. Members receive a discount on all wine purchases made at the winery or online. They also receive discounts on merchandise, including apparel and accessories.

The winery also offers discounts to members who refer their friends and family to join the Wine Club. Members who refer a friend receive a discount on their next Wine Club shipment.

Overall, Matanzas Creek Winery is committed to engaging with its customers and providing them with a unique and exclusive experience. Whether through their Wine Club or exclusive discounts, members can feel confident and knowledgeable about their purchases and their relationship with the winery.