My wife and I are considering heading up to Healdsburg to attend this for the first time. What can we expect that Sunday to be like? Also, any recommendations on best value hotels to stay on in the square or nearby?
Finally, any hidden gems we should be sure to check out in the area?
Hey there,
The best overall hotel is probably the Dry Creek Inn, but I understand it’s sold out on the Sat night prior…
There are several other hotels within walking distance (Hotel Healdsburg, H2, four Sisters Inn, and several budget options near the entrance to town. (L&M , America’s Best Value), and of course Windsor is the next town down.
I would hurry and make your reservations, as it’s a very busy weekend up here.
Since the tasting is on a Sunday, we understand a lot of the local Pinot wineries, roll out the red carpet on Saturday, since a lot of their club members are in town for the event, we certainly do. Also a lot of new releases tend to be available for tasting, since the a lot of folks bottle in July, Aug & Sept, so there might be some 13’s to try.
It’s often a little chilly on the plaza square at 11-12 when people arrive so bring a sweater at least.
We just hand you a glass , and you have 5 hours to sample the 100+ producers, and there are lots of local places to eat, so lunch is a must… getting in and out is easy.
There is also a silent auction going for the Boys & Girls Clubs, and a walking judging panel which will pick out two producers for special recognition.
It’s a bit more like a town block party than a formal tasting and we’ve tried to keep it informal, fun & neighborly.
see http://www.pinotfestival.com for more details, and https://www.facebook.com/PinotOnTheRiver/photos_stream for photos from prior years.
Thank you sir! I surely will be stopping in to my favorite Pinot producer to try the 2012 Black Label. Can’t wait!
Awesome, we will be pouring the Black Label 2012 and several other new releases that weekend… including our Weir Vineyard & Sangiacomo Vineyard 2012 reserves… Cu then…