The Top 3 (okay 4) Reasons to Visit Healdsburg in 2023
Blog Post
1. Lytton Springs Ranked #1 in Cosmopolitan’s Top Winery Experiences this Year
In the first issue of 2023, Cosmopolitan ranks America’s top vineyards and winery experiences, and listed at the #1 spot is Ridge Vineyards! Our sustainably built Lytton Springs tasting room in Healdsburg, CA is credited for its one-of-a-kind views and exceptional private tasting experience.
“This sustainable spot has been perfecting its cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel since 1962, and by ‘perfecting,’ we mean they’re already pretty much perfect. Sipping your way through a roster of reds while soaking in views from the elevated patio, or grabbing some pals and booking a private tasting near century-old vines before zipping through the vineyard on an electric go-kart? Name a better way to weekend. (There isn’t one.)” -Kristy Alpert, Cosmopolitan
2. RIDGE Club Members Get Special Rates at Boutique Healdsburg Hotel, The Madrona
The Madrona is a new luxury hotel & restaurant tucked in the hills of Healdsburg, just 1 mile from town, and features interiors by renowned designer Jay Jeffers. Located on eight lush acres of hillside, the 24-room reimagined estate features an all-day dining destination from Michelin Starred Chef Jesse Mallgren that celebrates the culture and flavors of Northern California. The Madrona also showcases a full bar & lounge within the Mansion’s intimate parlors, heated saltwater pool, half an acre of regenerative gardens serving as the restaurant’s main source of bounty, a full gym, and a robust calendar of unique culinary events & overnight experiences.
Ridge wine club members get 15% off The Madrona’s best available rates year-round plus complimentary room upgrades based upon availability. Contact us directly for details on how to take advantage.
3. There are Four Michelin-Rated Restaurants in the Area and a Bustling Culinary Scene to Explore
There’s no shortage of amazing local restaurants to explore while you’re visiting Healdsburg, including coffee shops, bakeries, ice cream & pie shops, farm-to-table dining, and the Michelin-rated restaurants below.
Single Thread – Three Michelin Stars
“The menu at this Healdsburg jewel is acutely tuned to each micro-season in Sonoma County, thanks to the bounty provided by farmer and co-owner, Katina Connaughton. Spring might bring delicately smoked Ora king salmon topped with arctic char roe and myoga; while winter showcases pumpkin tartare with Dungeness crab and a miso-makrut lime foam.” -The Michelin Guide
Cyrus – One Michelin Star
“Celebrated Wine Country chef Douglas Keane has returned to the fore with his re-launch of Cyrus in Geyserville. Set among rolling vineyards, the dining rooms are housed in a coolly modern concrete and glass lair that offers a striking contrast to the verdant surroundings..Dinner is an ebullient experience that progresses from canapes and Champagne in the lounge, to small bites in the kitchen, and concludes with substantial compositions in the dining room. Farm-fresh crudité to be dipped in umeboshi emulsion; Sonoma duck with turnips and hoisin; and black sesame financier with shaved plums are just a few examples of the impressive, globally accented cuisine.” -The Michelin Guide
Barndiva – One Michelin Star
“Even for scenic Healdsburg, Barndiva is eye-catching. Service is attentive and with nary a hint of pretense. Nothing feels contrived in this dining room, where farm-to-table is the dictum .An Early Girl tomato filled with mozzarella espuma on a base of dashi gelee takes familiar flavors and creates something utterly new. Roasted duck accompanied by caramelized fennel, orange confiture and duck liver mousse dusted in cocoa powder is given a gorgeous plating…” -The Michelin Guide
Chalkboard – Bib Gourmand
“Located in the luxury boutique Hotel Les Mars, Chalkboard is a surprisingly laid-back boîte, with a casual vibe and a buzzing bar that offers a refreshing counterpoint to a day of wine tasting…The menu of small plates spans every cuisine and appetite. Be sure to sample at least one of the homemade pastas: bucatini with pepperoni and Meyer lemon is fresh and delightful. English peas with truffled chevre, mint, potatoes and pickled red onions are a tasty, and visually appealing, celebration of spring.” -The Michelin Guide
4. Healdsburg Has Outdoor Adventures Galore
A visit to Healdsburg is not just for wine tasting; there’s so much more to see and do! Below are a few of our favorite activities if you’re up for an outdoor adventure.
Horseback Riding at Lake Sonoma
The Ranch at Lake Sonoma offers a variety of different trail rides across the Lake’s network of trails that offer breathtaking mountain views. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, they have a trail to suit your fancy. Both private and public rides are available.
Hiking the Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Reserve
Explore the trails at the Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve. The preserve spans 155 acres and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including 40 distinct species of birds. The popular Nancy’s Ridge and All-the-Oaks Loop is about 2.2 miles and is great for birding, hiking, or running. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit any time of year.
We can’t wait to see you in wine country this year!