Two Ways to Sip: The Ultimate Guide to the Roche Winery Experience

 

When our hotel guests ask for a winery that pairs award-winning bottles with down-to-earth "Irish hospitality," we always send them straight to Roche Winery. For over 35 years, this family-owned staple has been making some of the most approachable, high-quality wines in the valley.

 

The coolest part about visiting Roche is that they offer two completely different tasting experiences right here in town. Whether you want a lively, walkable plaza vibe or a relaxing afternoon out on the vineyard floor, Roche has you covered.

 

---

 

One Family, Two Distinct Locations

You do not have to choose just one style of tasting—both spots showcase the family’s excellent Carneros AVA wines, like their acclaimed American Oak Reserve Chardonnay and estate Pinot Noir.

• The Downtown Sonoma Tasting Room: Located in a lovely 1940s craftsman-style building just off the famous Sonoma Plaza. It features a wrap-around porch, cozy indoor bars, and a spacious, shaded garden patio with outdoor fireplaces.
• The Sonoma Winery & Tasting Room: Found just south of town on the valley floor, this massive 17,000-square-foot modern production facility is located right on their gorgeous Tipperary Vineyard.

---

 

Choose Your Tasting Vibe

Depending on your mood for the day, pick the location that best fits your vacation itinerary.

The Downtown Plaza Experience

• The Vibe: Breezy, casual, and perfect for people-watching right near the shops and restaurants.
• Best For: A pre-dinner flight or a relaxing afternoon break without needing a designated driver. You can sit by the fire pits, sip a glass of their crisp Rosé, and enjoy local wine-infused chocolate truffles.

The Estate Vineyard Experience

• The Vibe: Expansive, scenic, and deeply educational.
• Best For: A dedicated winery day. You can hang out on the outdoor "Tasting Plaza," look out over thousands of acres of western-slope vines, or book an intimate walking tour of the state-of-the-art production facility.

 

---

 

Planning Your Visit: Quick Details

Both locations are highly accessible, very welcoming, and perfect to pair with a stay at our property.

Downtown Tasting & Vineyard Experience

Feature	Roche Downtown Tasting Room	Roche Winery & Tasting Plaza
Address	122 W. Spain Street, Sonoma	22097A Bonness Rd, Sonoma, CA
Hours	Daily: 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM	Daily: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Price Range	Flights from $35 – $45 per person	Flights from $35 – $45 per person
Reservations	Recommended; walk-ins welcome	Strongly encouraged; required for tours

---

 

Insider Pro-Tips from Our Front Desk

• The Bottle Discount Strategy: If you find a bottle you love, buy a few! Purchasing bottles frequently waives your tasting fee, and the staff is famous for walking forgotten bags or flyers right over to local hotels if you leave them behind. 
• Book the Vineyard Lunch: If you head to the production facility, ask about their private picnic and lunch options which include a full layout on the estate.
• Dress for the Patio: Both locations boast incredible outdoor seating spaces. Bring your favorite sunglasses and a light sweater for when the evening breeze rolls in across the valley floor.

 

---

 

After a wonderful day of sipping through the Carneros region, your comfortable room is just minutes away. Stop by the front desk if you would like us to call ahead to secure prime outdoor patio seating or help map out your downtown walking route!