Sonoma Wine Country isn't the kind of place to show off its luxury and wealth. This isn't the place to be seen, but rather the place to be.

Sure, Hollywood celebs and the international elite come to Sonoma County to stay in private villas, relaxa at amazing spas and eat at Michelin-starred restaurants. But they also come to stroll farmers markets, enjoy amazing farm-to-table cuisine and try some of the best wines in the world. And the lady next to you at the tasting room? She didn't get here in a limo. She was flown here in her private jet.

Here's the lowdown on luxury in Sonoma County …

Stay and Dine

Kenwood Inn & Spa
10400 Sonoma Highway 12, Kenwood
707-833-1293
www.kenwoodinn.com

In the heart of Sonoma County, set amidst the stunning hills of the Sonoma Valley, the Kenwood Inn and Spa is the premier destination for visitors seeking gracious treatment, lush surroundings, and luxurious accommodations.

Designed with hand-crafted artistry, the Inn has the allure of a Mediterranean villa enticing guests along walkways that meander from courtyard to terrace, from patio to spa to create the ultimate escape. A favorite among sybarites, the Kenwood Inn and Spa is routinely listed as one of the best spas in the United States.

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
100 Boyes Blvd., Sonoma, Calif.
707-938-9000
www.fairmont.com/sonoma

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is the ultimate elegant oasis, blessed by natural mineral hot springs in the bucolic Sonoma Valley wine region. For hundreds of years, ancient thermal mineral waters have graced this site. Today, the resort is one of the only luxury spa resorts in the country with its own source of thermal mineral water.

Before relaxing at this world-class spa, take in a round of golf at the Sonoma Golf Club. End your day with a fantastic meal at the Michelin-acclaimed Santé Restaurant. Guests enjoy a seasonal menu, in a warm and casual yet stylish setting. Designed to exude the California wine country experience, Chef Andrew Cain showcases the region's abundant local products and world-famous wines. Only the freshest local produce, meats, poultry and seafood are used to create elegantly simple dishes that let the natural flavors of the food speak for themselves.

Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant
7871 River Road
Forestville, Calif.
707-887-3300
www.farmhouseinn.com

One of Sonoma County's finest country inns — 18 rooms with a full service spa and Michelin-starred restaurant on site.

The inn is located in the heart of the Russian River Wine Country and is convenient to more than 200 wineries, towering redwoods, and the wild Pacific coastline. Sophisticated comfort and classic elegance on six acres of gardens give visitors a sense of renewal. Sublime, farm-fresh breakfasts are served each day.

A true farm-to-table experience awaits the gourmand; and a master of wine sommelier has created a wonderful wine program to enhance the dining experience.

Beautiful Places
Sonoma
800-495-9961
www.beautiful-places.com

Beautiful Places is an award-winning travel company specializing in villa and vacation rentals, epicurean adventures and tailored experiences. Recognized as one of the world's top villa rental companies by leading travel experts, Beautiful Places' portfolio ranges from cozy vineyard farmhouses to hilltop resort-like estates accommodating up to 14 guests with minimum stays from two to three nights.

Beautiful Places is recognized as one of the world's leading villa rental specialists by Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and Robb Report. Ask Beautiful Places to arrange for a private chef, in-villa spa services and behind the scenes wine tours. Guests receive complimentary wine tasting passes.

Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery
10300 Chalk Hill Road
Healdsburg, Calif.
707-657-4837
www.chalkhill.com

A taste of luxury: Chalk Hill offers several tours and wine pairings that allow guests to experience the flavor of this varied terroir –1,300-acre estate, the Chalk Hill appellation – and its unique history and approach to viticulture.

The culinary experience begins by touring the garden where organically-farmed produce is the inspiration for Executive Chef Didier Ageorges' culinary artistry. Following a brief excursion through the vineyards, guests arrive at the Pavilion — a conservatory overlooking the equestrian center with panoramic views of the Chalk Hill valley. There, you will enjoy a sit-down tasting of estate wines paired with several small plates prepared by Chef Didier.

Vérité Estate Winery
4611 Thomas Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
707-433-9000
www.veritewines.com

Vérité, tucked into the rolling hills of Chalk Hill, is the perfect spot for a vigneron — one who seeks, through wine, to give voice to the truth of the soil. The name Vérité, French for truth, stands for wines that reflect their soil with integrity.

The Vérité Estate is located in a beautiful spot in the foothills of Sonoma County's Mayacamas Mountains, where the Alexander Valley, Chalk Hill, and Knights Valley wine regions come together. The cozy tasting room offers great company, terrific views and – of course –award-winning wines. Tastings are by appointment only Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Jordan Vineyard & Winery
1474 Alexander Valley Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
707-431-5250
www.jordanwinery.com

Jordan Vineyard & Winery lies tucked into the hills of Alexander Valley – one of the world's finest winegrowing regions. Jordan strives to place in harmony the complexities of terrior, the artistry of the cellar, and the joys of the table.

Open by appointment only, the tour and tasting is an inspired experience. Jordan is all about hospitality. A visit here will be unique and designed with the guests in mind. With its own executive chef, Todd Knoll, the menus reflect the local flavors of Sonoma County. Knoll presents flavors that perfectly pair with Jordan's Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay – the only two wines made here.

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For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and
dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call 800-576-6662.

Contact:
Birgitt Vaughan
Sonoma County Tourism Bureau
bvaughan@sonomacounty.com
707-522-5826