As you cross over the stone bridge to the Mission-style visitor center of
St. Francis Winery, it is as though you are stepping back in time to the days of early California. As you reach the bell tower you will spot the statue of St. Francis of Assisi, the saint who was believed to have been the first to bring European grape cultivation to the new world. The visitor center grounds have lawns, fountains and tantalizing courtyards through which to stroll.

The new winery facility sits up against picturesque Hood Mountain, well behind the visitor center, and can be toured by appointment. The facility is state-of-the-art and is 60% powered by solar. The winery produces big, bold full-bodied wines with lots of flavor. Wines are produced from 100% Sonoma County fruit and are made with the philosophy of “maximum extraction, minimal intervention."

The tasting room, a spacious attractive tile-floored space with a fireplace at one end, offers three separate tasting bars. There is a beautiful slate patio with panoramic views of the surrounding Wild Oak Vineyards, lavender-dotted gardens and vistas of the Sonoma Valley. There are two tasting options, as well as a daily Reserve Food and Wine Pairing Program, for which a chef on the premises will create delectable appetizers to accompany a selection of four reserve wines. There is a well-stocked gift shop with wine accessories, logo clothing, and large-format bottles for sale.