See green farming in a sustainable way, on bike or foot
Sonoma County has a heritage of farm families — many of whom have been practicing sustainable farming techniques and winemaking practices for decades.
Family owned and operated, Martorana Family Winery is committed to the preservation of land and natural resources and practices organic farming techniques that earned a certification from California Certified Organic Farmers.
Solar energy powers the daily needs of the winery, cover crops like clover and bell beans are grown to rebuild depleted soil (and minimize the need to import fertilizer), and techniques are chosen to benefit the quality of wine and the quality of life of today’s and future generations.
A stop at the Biodynamic farms at DaVero Farms & Winery allows cyclists to visit the wealth of the property — from olive groves, vineyards and fruit trees to chickens, sheep and pigs.
The Biodynamics approach considers the entire farm a living organism, and farmers attempt to harmonize factors such as climate, light and warmth of the sun, and inherent wildlife of the earth within the living farm structure.
If you’d rather get close to winemaking in Sonoma Valley on foot, a handful of wineries offer guided hikes that take visitors through vineyards and gardens, as well as enjoy a sampling of wine to make the journey just a little more special.
Jordan guided hikes begin with a continental breakfast at Vista Point, the highest hilltop of the 1,200-acre ranch, with views of multiple wine regions and mountain ranges.
Covering 3 miles of hills and valleys, the moderately strenuous hike passes through natural wildlife habitat, sustainably farmed vineyards and olive orchards as well as around Jordan’s secluded lakes, cattle ranch and chef’s garden. www.jordanwinery.com.
Hikers join Seghesio family members Jim and Ned Neumiller as they lead a journey through the 120-year-old vines at the Home Ranch estate, where visitors view the property’s Zinfandel and Italian varietals on the way to the top of Rattlesnake Hill.