Located just off Sonoma Plaza in a restored adobe, Three Sticks Wines is a necessary stop in Sonoma County due to its history, design and fine wines.
Built originally in 1842 for the brother of General Mariano Vallejo, the Vallejo-Casteñada Adobe transports you back to the time when California was called Alto California as it was still part of Mexico. Design impresario, Ken Fulk known for creating luxurious environments added his magical touch to this historic adobe. There’s ornate fixtures and furniture throughout that make you realize it’s truly a work of art.
I made my way into the backyard that’s a little slice of California at its best. There are exotic cactuses and sweet humming birds fluttering from plant to plant and I was in awe of the beautifully designed seating areas.
For the seated tasting, we sampled five Three Sticks Wines and throughout the experience we nibbled on a delightful plate of fine cheeses, nuts, and fruit.
We started out with the 2019 Durrell Vineyard Pinot Blanc with elegant flavors of white nectarine flower, crisp green apple, and a slate-like minerality. It’s quite refreshing and pairs perfectly with warm weather.
It was followed by the 2018 One Sky Sonoma Mountain Chardonnay dubbed as the Goldilocks of their chardonnays. You’ll find nutmeg spice paired with ripe Meyer lemon and guava.
The 2018 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay has a unique bouquet of white flowers and morning buns. It has distinctive minerality that’s enhanced by notes of honeysuckle, key lime, and fresh cream. Its dances on the palate quite nicely!
As for reds, we sipped on the 2018 Cuvée Eva Marie Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir. It’s quite luxurious with notes of rose petals, blackberries, and a perfect blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and cocoa nib at the finish.
Last and definitely not least, we sipped on the 2019 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir – a quintessential example of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. On the nose, there’s aromas of hibiscus, cranberry, and fresh clove. Silky tannins seduce ones palate, complemented by notes of toasted pie crust and ripe cherry.
Overall, I found the wines to be world-class and they perfectly showcase the diverse terroir of Sonoma County. I look forward to visiting Three Sticks Wines again and perhaps next time I’ll try another experience such as a food and wine pairing.