Landmark Vineyards and Winery was originally founded in the Windsor area of Sonoma County by the great-great-granddaughter of John Deere, “the tractor baron.” They moved to a spectacular 20-acre piece of land at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain in 1989 and built a California mission-style wine estate, with an 11-acre vineyard. The well-tended gardens have fountains, lawns, picnic areas and a small pond. On Saturdays during the summer there is a wagon tour of the vineyards with great draft horses pulling the load.

The tasting room is located inside the hacienda-style courtyard and features a dramatic mural of grapevines covering the back wall and flowing down over the granite-topped tasting counter. A giant chandelier illuminates the well-stocked gift shop, and a fireplace sits in the corner. There are food and wine programs available, as well as a bocce ball court for those so inclined.

Landmark’s winemaking is guided by a single overriding philosophy, “Less is more….The less the wine is manipulated, the more flavors and aromas remain to enjoy,” according to winemaker Eric Stern. The result is fruit-forward, food-friendly wines made from grapes sourced in the region, with their flagship wine being Chardonnay. The winery makes a number of versions from different California wine regions; the richest are unfiltered and barrel-fermented in 100% French oak. Landmark also produces Pinot Noir and Syrah. There is a private cottage and a guest suite on the grounds for those wishing to spend the night.