Ten years ago, wine tasting in Sonoma and Napa counties was a simple, often free experience. You could visit a winery without an appointment, taste a selection of wines, and decide if you liked any enough to purchase a bottle. If a winery did charge a fee, it was usually minimal and sometimes even refundable with a wine purchase.
In 2012, only a small percentage of wineries in Napa (13.4%) and Sonoma (14.6%) charged tasting fees, according to the Silicon Valley Bank 2012 Direct to Consumer Wine Report. Back then, wine tasting was a casual, accessible activity.
Fast forward to today, and the wine tasting landscape has changed dramatically. The entry-level price for a wine tasting in Sonoma County has risen from $36 in 2022 to $43 in 2024, according to the 2024 Direct to Consumer Wine Report. In Napa, prices are even steeper, with the average cost for a standard tasting now around $75.
While it’s hard to avoid the rising costs, some wineries still offer a more affordable—or even free—tasting experience. In the winter months, particularly during the off-season, wineries need to adapt to the competitive market by offering complimentary tastings or more budget-friendly options. Here are a few spots where you can still enjoy a great tasting experience without breaking the bank.
1. Meadowcroft Wines
Located in Sonoma’s Cornerstone marketplace, Meadowcroft Wines offers a seated, guided tasting of four wines, which is currently free (a $25 value). The tasting features a rotating selection from their expansive portfolio, including sparkling wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and more. You can enjoy your tasting in the chic salon or on the vine-covered patio.
Location: 23574 Arnold Drive 121, Sonoma
Phone: 707-934-4090
Website: meadowcroftwines.com
2. Gamling & McDuck Wine
Founders Adam McClary and Gabrielle Shaffer invite visitors to “party like it’s 1999” at their quirky Napa tasting room. Their Wild Wild West Tasting experience is free and offers a chance to try their small-production Cabernet Francs and Chenin Blancs. If you’re looking for more in-depth knowledge, you can opt for their Big Picture or Club Tasting, priced at $35 and $70, respectively.
Location: 1420 Second St., Napa
Phone: 707-312-2574
Website: gamlingandmcduck.com
3. Frick Winery
If you’re in the mood for a more intimate and down-to-earth wine tasting experience, Frick Winery in Geyserville is the place to be. Owner Bill Frick offers tastings of his estate-grown wines, including Cinsaut, Carignane, and Rhône blends, for a small group of guests (maximum of four). Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead is recommended to ensure availability.
Location: 23072 Walling Road, Geyserville
Phone: 707-484-3950
Website: frickwinestore.com
4. Locals Tasting Room
In downtown Geyserville, the Locals Tasting Room offers a unique wine-tasting experience where you can sample wines from different local producers. The Handal family manages this tasting room, which serves as a hub for six to eight changing wineries. And the best part? You can enjoy their flight tastings for free.
Location: 21060 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville
Phone: 707-814-0713
Website: localstastingroom.com
5. Korbel California Champagne
Korbel Champagne Cellars in Guerneville offers a historic and charming tasting experience. As one of the few wineries still able to use the "Champagne" designation, they provide a complimentary tasting of their Natural California Champagne. You can also enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the winery’s historic cellar and museum.
Location: 13250 River Road, Guerneville
Phone: 707-824-7000
Website: korbel.com
6. Passport Programs
If you’re looking to explore multiple wineries without shelling out a lot of money, consider the winter and spring passport programs. These packages allow you to visit multiple wineries for one all-inclusive price, offering a great way to sample wine at a variety of locations.
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Winter in the Wineries Passport (Calistoga): This $80 passport grants access to complimentary tastings at 19 wineries in the Calistoga area, including Charles Krug Winery and Château Montelena, with a combined value of $800. Valid through February 9.
Purchase: Visit Calistoga -
Passport to Dry Creek Valley (Sonoma County): Taking place in April, this passport gives you access to tastings at over 25 wineries. Prices range from $95 for a single day to $175 for both days.
Purchase: drycreekvalley.org
Wine tasting has certainly evolved over the years, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still find great experiences that fit your budget. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual sipper, Sonoma and Napa counties have plenty to offer for those looking for a more affordable tasting experience. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and enjoy these local gems.
