Day One: A Warm Welcome & A Harvest Surprise

The journey began at the serene Harmon Guest House, where guests settled in before gathering for a creekside welcome reception featuring local wines and small bites. An elegant wine-paired dinner at the Bubble Room at J Vineyards & Winery set the tone for the days ahead, highlighting the region’s signature hospitality.

Just when it seemed the evening was winding down, guests were whisked away for a thrilling surprise night harvest in Russian River Valley. Under the Sonoma County stars, campers joined local growers in the vineyard, witnessing the energy and skill of vineyard employees, a memory that quickly became a camp favorite.

Day Two: Hands-On Winemaking & Vineyard Adventures

The second day kicked off with a lively breakfast at Appellation Healdsburg, with guest appearance by co-founder and celebrity chef Charlie Palmer. With energy high, guests headed to Trione Vineyards & Winery for a behind-the-scenes tour of the crush pad, fermentation tanks, and barrel rooms – an insider’s look into winemaking.

The late morning unfolded at Limerick Lane Cellars, where a guided vineyard tour and seasonal wine country lunch offered a delicious glimpse into Sonoma County sustainability and terroir. The visit came with a surprise: a grape stomp in the cellar, bringing laughter, purple-stained feet, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

After a break to explore the charming Healdsburg Plaza, guests regrouped for intimate “Truck Talks” with Sonoma County winegrowers—an opportunity to share stories, ask questions, and connect directly with the farmers cultivating the region’s wines. The day closed with a festive ranch dinner hosted by Vino Farms, where growers, winemakers, and campers came together to celebrate harvest with seasonal pairings and world-class wines.

Day Three: Blending, Pairing & the Art of the Farm to Table 

On the final day, guests embraced their inner winemaker with a wine blending workshop with Rodney Strong Vineyards, crafting their own unique red wine blends under expert Winemaker guidance.

At Bricoleur Vineyards, the group stepped into the garden to harvest fresh produce before learning to make handmade pasta with the estate chef for a true farm-to-table food and wine experience. This hands-on meal highlighted the connection between Sonoma County’s farmers, chefs, and vintners—bringing the story of the land full circle.

The afternoon continued at La Crema Estate, where an engaging wine seminar offered deeper insight into the science and artistry behind winemaking. After a short refresh at the hotel, guests gathered for a farewell dinner at Gary Farrell Winery, raising a final toast to new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking Ahead

Sonoma County Grape Camp was more than a getaway, it was an immersion into all things Sonoma County, where guests became part of our story. From stomping grapes to blending their own wines, night harvest adventures to farm-to-table meals, 2025 Grape Camp offered a rare and personal connection to the people and places that make Sonoma County so extraordinary.

Sonoma County Winegrowers can’t wait to welcome a new group of campers in 2026 for another unforgettable Sonoma County immersion!