When the spring sun is shining in wine country, one of our favorite destinations to spend time is Bodega Bay in Sonoma County. Located one and a half hours west of Napa is a hidden haven of secluded hangouts to take in the bay or Pacific coastline. When the weather is less permitting for high end cabernet sauvignon, we pack our bags with a few iced bottles of “The Author”, some travel safe Hors d’oeuvres, and head west to the famed Highway 1. Here’s our tips on unwinding, wine country style along with our recommendations for wine and dining in Bodega Bay.

Bodega Bay is quaint fishing community, made famous in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1963 cult horror “The Birds”. Located 1.5 hours from both San Francisco and Napa Valley, Bodega Bay is an easily accessible destination for a slow-paced epicurean escape. Some beautiful stretches of beach include Salmon Creek beach and Goat Rock beach, just to the North.

From the nearby hiking trails and ocean bluffs, you may spot a pod of Grey Whales along their Pacific Ocean migration route. Our insider tips for two must-visit hiking adventures include ‘Hole in the Head’ and Bodega Bay Trailhead.

Before daybreak, the local fishermen will depart from the docks and return with a fresh catch from the Pacific including an assortment of pristine Salmon, Halibut and famed Dungeness Crabs, when the season permits.

If you get hungry, you’ll find the morning’s haul served at the famous Inn at The Tides Hotel. A casual yet cozy and elegant atmosphere with a prime backdrop to soak in Bodega Bay. One of our lesser-known local favorites includes Spud Point Crab Company for some of the best Chowder in the entire world (I can say that coming from Boston). We must also mention, Fisherman’s Cove for a hole-in-the-wall seafood eatery with amazing grilled oysters. Most notably, this little village also boasts some Michelin starred fare with the amazing Terrapin Creek restaurant delivering on any foodies’ dreams.

Of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without a splash of our Handwritten “The Author” Sauvignon Blanc. In early April we released the fresh new 2020 release. Bursting with tropical fruit notes, balanced by refreshing acidity, this stunning white wine pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses, shrimp gazpacho, spring risotto, grilled fish, or simply a sunny summer day on the Sonoma Coast.

If you’re visiting our boutique winery in Yountville, be sure to ask for a splash of our new 2020 Author. To add our new release Sauvignon Blanc to your next wine club shipment, call our wine curator team at (707) 944-8524 for that personalized service you know and love.