Recently I went on a Sonoma Wine Country adventure with Landmark Vineyards. My journey began at their Hop Kiln Estate in the Russian River Valley and after we visited their picturesque Kenwood Estate.
The Hop Kiln buildings are unique structures with distinctive conical roofs and redwood construction. They are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are a testament to the region’s rich agricultural history.
During my visit our wine guide provided an in-depth tour of their historic property, vineyards, and educated us on the property’s dynamic history – from drying hops for beer to growing award-winning pinot noir. I learned that it’s one of the few remaining hop kilns of its style in the United States.
After the tour we made our way to the tasting room with a rustic yet modern vibe. While seated at a grand table we enjoyed a flight of three exclusive Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs with a nice plate of various local cheeses. These wines included:
2017 Hop Kiln Estate Pinot Noir
2018 Rayhill Pinot Noir
2019 Hop Kiln Estate Reserve Pinot Noir
The depth, complexity, and balance of the wines, showcased the winemakers’ artistry and skill. What makes this wine experience quite unique is that it has a touch of old-world charm and I not only learned about the wines, but some California history too.
After, we headed to Landmark’s Kenwood Estate located 30 minutes away. I was charmed by the estate’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture with its stucco walls, terracotta roofs, and lush courtyards. There are sweeping vineyard views, a bocce ball court, and overall it offers a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance.
At Kenwood Estate I tasted the following wines in their outdoor courtyard and it was accompanied by a cheese and charcuterie platter.
2014 Lorenzo Chardonnay, Russian River Valley
2019 Rodgers Creek Chardonnay, Petaluma Gap
2013 Spring Hill Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
2015 Rodgers Creek Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap
2021 Hop Kiln Reserve Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
From the elegant and well-structured Chardonnay to the rich and complex Pinot Noir, each wine told a unique story of the land from which it was crafted.
After the wine tasting I took a leisurely stroll through the gardens, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. I then made my way to the chic guest suite onsite to settle in.
The suite has a contemporary design and features custom furniture pieces. There are luxurious touches such as a king sized bed topped with a Frette bedding, a flat screen television and gas-burning fireplace. The bathroom features floor tiles from Spain and Landmark Vineyards branded bathrobes.
A favorite feature was the private patio that offers spectacular views of the Mayacamas Mountains and estate vineyards, creating the perfect setting to taste and enjoy Landmark wines.
Overall, both of Landmark Vineyards’ properties offer stunning settings to indulge in premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines and enjoy Sonoma at its finest.