Do you know how you never notice something you pass by on the road every day until you really notice it? Exactly!! One recent Saturday morning, as we blithely were on our way up Highway 12 for a wine pick-up at a Napa winery, I noticed Ram’s Gate winery. Oh boy, another winery to explore! The wine gods were with us as we were able to score a late morning appointment. We eagerly drove through the winery’s impressive gates to begin our journey.
Since 2011, Ram’s Gate has served as the gateway to Wine County (Napa and Sonoma). Nestled in rolling hills, Ram’s Gate is the nexus for three amazing AVAs: Sonoma Valley to the south, Sonoma Coast to the East, and Carneros to the west. Under winemaker Joe Nielsen, Ram’s Gate produces refreshing Chardonnay’s and luscious Pinot Noir's. Ram’s Gate produces its own grapes and also sources from top-notch local vineyards. And something else they have is an inspired food pairing to accompany the yummy wine.
Entering the winery’s ample tasting area, what struck us first was the interesting mix of elegant and rustic, new and old, quite unusual and unique, and quite fancy. Ram’s Gate is an inviting respite from the afternoon soon with airy verandas and cozy setting areas. Settling down into their extremely comfy chairs, we perused the daily wine and food pairing offerings. I’ve been lucky to have sampled stellar food and wine pairings in the past; this was one of the best. (To that end, I’m publishing their tasting menu for the day). It was quite an experience as we worked out way through the five wines and fantastic small plates.
It was like having a spa experience while tasting and quaffing fantastic libations. Who knew what we’ve been missing!
Ram’s Gate Winery is located at 28700 Arnold Dr, Sonoma, CA. Call (707) 721- 8700 or check out their website at www.ramsgatewinery.com. They have a plethora of wine tasting options, so your hardest decision will be to pick one (or more). Plan ahead as appointments are required.