Set just off of Arnold Drive in Glen Ellen, CA, Eric Ross Winery produces some spectacular wines for such a small winery. Founded in 1994 by two San Francisco newspaper photographers, Eric Luse and John Ross Storey, the Winery is committed to producing wines with big personalities and heartfelt passions.

“Sonoma’s long, cool growing season keeps the vines temperate, yet there’s plenty of sun to ripen," Eric explains. "The cool-down at night prevents acids in the skins from dissipating into the air. Grapes ripen slowly, and what we’re getting is a fruit of great concentration".

The wine making is hands on and deliberate. The Old Vine Zinfandel starts with fermentation in open-topped redwood tanks, punched down by hand twice daily. After pressing, the wine is transferred to American and French oak casks for 18 months prior to bottling.

The offerings include memorable Russian River Valley Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as a Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon. The storefront tasting room is laid-back, casual, and dog friendly. Eric Ross Winery is proof that even the little guys can still make some extraordinary wine.