THIS SPRING FEELS especially lovely in the Bay Area. Not only are the days staying lighter longer, but some of the long-observed pandemic restrictions are easing. Many of us are making up for lost time by getting out more — and there’s no better activity for the season than going wine tasting.
Our latest update to the Top 25 Wineries list is heavy on places with scenic views and comfortable outdoor seating, all the better for enjoying that warm spring weather. We’ve added Storybook Mountain Vineyards, an under-the-radar estate in Calistoga that specializes in Zinfandel. A tour of this historic, secluded property feels like stepping into a quaint bygone era of Napa Valley. We’re also recommending Aeris, a sleek new lounge on the downtown Healdsburg square that is, as far as we can tell, California’s only tasting room specializing in wines inspired by the Italian island of Sicily. And this update also adds some longtime standbys like the rustic, blessedly low-key Porter Creek; and Keenan Winery, an estate on Napa Valley’s Spring Mountain that makes a killer Merlot.
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By Esther Mobley, Chronicle wine critic | >Credit: San Francisco Chronicle