California’s wineries are set in some of the loveliest landscapes imaginable, and the summer months bring a chance to enjoy those views with a glass of wine and an alfresco feast. Here are five possibilities in Sonoma, Napa and Livermore that range from bucolic picnic options to music and a nosh. A quick note: Many wineries offer picnic tables and amenities for guests who are wine tasting.
Double check reservation and picnic policies before you go — some welcome outside food, some do not, and no winery allows outside beverages. Bricoleur Vineyards Picnics: Reserve a picnic in the rose garden, on the lawn or by the pond at this Windsor winery, and you’ll have a cheery red Bricoleur Vineyards wagon to tote your well-packed, deluxe wicker basket and chilled wine. The “essential picnic” package is $75 to $100 per person and includes everything you need for an alfresco repast.
Available Friday-Sunday through October. Make reservations and find more details at www.bricoleurvineyards.
com. Murrieta’s Well Sunset Hikes: Hike to the top of this Livermore vineyard to enjoy sunset hues, gorgeous landscapes, small-lot wine and a picnic box for two on select dates through October. Make reservations ($95 per person) and find details at https://murrietaswell.
com/visit/ . Tres Sabores Picnics: This St. Helena winery offers picnic perks for wine-tasting guests, including picnic tables ($20-$50 per group) set with linens, palm-leaf plates and silverware, plus cutting boards and kniv.