Celebrate California Wine Month This September

This year marks the 20th anniversary of California Wine Month, a celebration of the state’s 250-year winemaking history and a recognition of the importance of wine and viticulture to the nation’s economy. Throughout September, wineries across the state will host a broad range of events highlighting the innovative spirit of California’s wine community during the height of the annual harvest season.

California, which produces more than 80% of U.S. wines, will celebrate harvest this year with activities including wine and food festivals, special wine tastings, grape stomps, behind-the-scenes tours and more at locations ranging from Santa Barbara to Mendocino, and from the Santa Cruz Mountains on the coast to the Sierra Foothills in the east.

French dry red wine, pours into glass, gray background, banner, selective focus

Winery events and activities highlight the diversity, versatility and abundance of sustainable wines across the state, most of which are crafted in certified sustainable wineries. California’s nearly 6,000 winegrape growers produce more than 100 varieties throughout the state.

These annual festivities showcase the wines and people behind the state’s thriving wine industry, which generates $73 billion in annual economic activity in California alone. They also highlight the diverse regions which inspire visitors to connect, savor the moment and unwind.

Here’s a list of Statewide Wine Events. You can find more details on Discover California Wines.

North Coast

LAKE COUNTY

Paella Night
Wednesday, September 4

Six Sigma Ranch & Winery, Lower Lake

Join us for a casual Paella dinner! We host Paella night every first Wednesday of the month and feature rotating local Chefs! Dinner is $20/person and wine is sold by the bottle. Family friendly and Pet Friendly.

Guided Hike
Saturday, September 7
Six Sigma Ranch & Winery, Lower Lake

Join us on a hike of our trails! Meet at the tasting room at 9am and expect rolling hills as we hike 4 miles in 2 hours.

Pinot Noir Release and Club Pick-Up
September 7—8, 2024
Six Sigma Ranch & Winery, Lower Lake

Enjoy a new release wine flight with complimentary food pairing at 11am, 1pm, or 3pm

“No Drop” Guided Mountain Bike Ride
Saturday, September 21
Six Sigma Ranch & Winery, Lower Lake

Bring your bike and ride our trails! Konocti Bicycles will host a “no drop” ride every 3rd Saturday. Meet at the tasting room and prepare to meet other riders for camaraderie and fun. Expect rolling hills and 2 hours of biking.

MENDOCINO COUNTY

Frey Harvest Party
Saturday, September 14
Frey Vineyards, Redwood Valley

Come enjoy Frey Organic and Biodynamic wines at the old Frey Ranch on Saturday, September 14th from 6-9 pm. We are opening to the public for people who are interested in our wine club to check out. We’re offering a catered organic soup, salad, and dessert. Live Music by local artists. 

NAPA VALLEY

From Fruit to Wine: The Magic of Harvest
Saturday, September 21
Groth Vineyards & Winery, Oakville

Walk the vineyard to gather grapes, then head back to the winery to evaluate their ripeness and estimate a potential harvest date. The tour finishes with a visit to the crushpad and cellar.

Theopolis Vineyards’ Annual Harvest & Bottle Release Party
Saturday, September 21
Theopolis Vineyards, Yorkville

Enjoy Theopolis Vineyards’ Annual Harvest & Bottle Release Party, which includes a BBQ, wine tasting, live music, dancing and more.

Harvest Fiesta
Sunday, September 22
Merryvale Vineyards, Napa

Meet the winemaker, learn about the 2024 harvest, and taste Merryvale barrel samples while enjoying a Mexican-style feast.

Morning Walk in the Vineyard
September 1—30, 2024
Cliff Lede Vineyards, Yountville

Embark on a sensory journey with a morning walk through our estate vineyards and winery. Throughout the invigorating walk, you will taste a selection of curated wines that reflect the terroir and craftsmanship of the region. With each step, breathe in the crisp morning air, infused with the earthy aromas of the vineyard. This is an active walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes.

Library Tasting
September 1—30, 2024
Cliff Lede Vineyards, Yountville

Enjoy a private, educational experience that will begin in our estate vineyards (weather permitting), followed by a tasting featuring four wines hand selected from our library. Discover how Cliff Lede wines age and evolve as your host guides you through each vintage.

Classic Tasting
September 1—30, 2024
Cakebread Cellars, Rutherford

Visit Cakebread Cellars Mon-Thurs for a Classic Tour & Tasting to Celebrate California Wine Month!

Cakebread Cellars California Wine Month Classic Tour & Tasting
September 1—30, 2024
Cakebread Cellars, Rutherford

Visit Cakebread Cellars Mon-Thurs for a Classic Tour & Tasting to Celebrate California Wine Month!

SONOMA COUNTY

Mill Creek Vineyard & Winery Founder’s Lunch
Friday, September 6
Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery, Healdsburg

Join us for the Mill Creek Winery Founder’s Lunch.

Imagery Paint and Sip
Sunday, September 8
Imagery Estate Winery, Glen Ellen

Enjoy a guided painting class while sipping unique Imagery wine and take home your final creation. Our workshops are approachable for all levels, no previous experience necessary.

Wine Road’s Harvest Wine Trail
Saturday, September 14
30 Winereis throughout Northern Sonoma County, CA, Healdsburg

The “golden ticket” for a day of wine tasting. Only $40 for the day, with 30 wineries to chose from. No reservations required. See the list of wineries and the wines being offered online at WineRoad.com

Let’s Crush It! A Harvest Celebration
Saturday, September 14
Alexander Valley Vineyards, Healdsburg

Experience the excitement of the 50th harvest season at AVV! We’ll be celebrating the 2024 harvest with our biggest party of the year. Join us for the blessing of the grapes, try grape picking & stomping, play Wine-O Bingo, and enjoy a barbeque lunch along with live music at this all-day party on the historic Wetzel Family Estate.

2nd Annual Chili Challenge
Sunday, September 15
Cline Family Cellars, Sonoma

Join us on the great lawn for live music, yard games, wine, and chili from top chefs. Vote for your favorite and support La Luz with the winning chef’s name!

Friday Jams at Cline Cellars
Friday, September 20
Cline Family Cellars, Sonoma

Join us for Friday Jams with Nicole Marden and Hopmonk Mobile Kitchen! Enjoy live music, food truck fare, and wine from 5-7pm every 3rd Friday. No reservations needed.

Sonoma County Wine Celebration
September 19—21, 2024
Chateau St. Jean, Kenwood

The event features an opening reception on Thursday, a Friday evening party, and a live auction on Saturday. New add-on events include insider wine tours and special dining experiences with local winemakers and chefs.

Sunset Thursday
Thursday, September 26
Pedroncelli Winery, Geyserville

Enjoy wine tasting, light refreshments, and live music as you relax on the picturesque outdoor patio. Bring your own picnic.

Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival
September 26—28, 2024

Sonoma Valley Plaza, Sonoma

Celebrate Sonoma Valley’s 200-year heritage as a winegrowing region. Set on the historic Sonoma Plaza, the weekend festival features the Artisan Festival of Food & Wine and more.

CA Wine Month along the Wine Road Northern Sonoma County
September 1—30, 2024
12 locations in Sonoma County, CA, Healdsburg

We have collected special offers from our winery members to celebrate CA Wine Month in September. We invite you to log onto WineRoad.com and click on the home page to see these offers.

Inland Valleys

SACRAMENTO DELTA

Movie Night in the Vines
Saturday, September 7
Bogle Family Vineyards, Clarksburg

In this Bogle Family fave, enjoy wine while watching Bruce Willis save the world from the big, scary asteroid in Armageddon!

Clarksburg Country Nights
Saturday, September 28
Bogle Family Vineyards, Clarksburg

Are you ready for a little Nashville?!? When local country crooners meet up with some of Nashville’s best singer-songwriters, magic happens!

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

Paso Robles Wine Tasting Tour: Fresno
Thursday, September 12
Clovis Veterans Memorial District, Clovis

Enjoy a tasting of Paso Robles wines in Fresno featuring 50 winery producers. This event brings the winery personalities out of the cellars, vineyards, and tasting rooms and into your neighborhood.

Harvest Tour with Christina
Saturday, September 14
Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards, Acampo

Join winemaker Christina Lopez for a casual walk in our Lady Acquiesce Vineyard for a one hour tour. Christina will focus on winemaking and fermentation.

An Evening With Wine Guru Mike Dunne
Saturday, September 21
Acquiesce Winery, Acampo

Join us for an evening with acclaimed wine journalist, wine judge, and wine historian Mike Dunne. Many remember Mike from the years he has written a wine & food column for the Sacramento Bee. This is a great way to learn about the history of wine regions outside of Napa!

SIERRA FOOTHILLS

CALAVERAS COUNTY

Ironstone Amphitheatre Concert – Dokken with George Lynch, Warrant & SteelHeart
Friday, September 13

Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys

Ironstone Amphitheatre concert venue in the Gold Rush town of Murphys is a must see. From classic rock to country to pop, artists of all genres play in this beautiful outdoor venue.

Ironstone Concours d’ Elegance
Saturday, September 28

Ironstone Vineyards, Murphys

Since 1996, the Ironstone Concours Foundation has held the Ironstone Concours d’ Elegance. Our events have resulted in more than $1,000,000 of donations made to support youth in agriculture, including Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H youth activities. We also regularly fund annual scholarships to the California State Fair and the Calaveras County Fair. In addition, the Ironstone Concours Foundation has underwritten a room at the State FFA headquarters in Galt, California, and we have steadily supported the 4-H Leadership Conference, Guide Dog Programs and Horse Classic. It is with much gratitude and thanks to all of our loyal entrants, sponsors, vendors and supporters ​that help us support these efforts each year.

CENTRAL COAST CALIFORNIA

PASO ROBLES

Renegades & Outlaws Party
Friday, September 6

Ancient Peaks Winery, Santa Margarita

Come and celebrate 250 years of the historic Santa Margarita Ranch with us at our public Renegades & Outlaws event! In the spirit of the Wild West, we will dance, eat tacos, ride bulls* and enjoy the exceptional wines from Ancient Peaks Winery! Including our latest release – Renegade, with a brand-new label but still the same Syrah blend that fans love. We encourage you to dress up in your favorite western wear but it’s not mandatory. However, there may or may not be a prize for the best dressed. This event is 21+. No pets please. No outside food or drinks allowed.

Adelaida History Night & Dinner
Saturday, September 14
Dubost, Paso Robles

Enjoy a delightful evening including Adelaida history, award-winning wines, and a BBQ dinner all while located on property in the Dubost family since 1882.

SAN FRANCISCO

Sunset Concert featuring Forejour | Tribute to Foreigner & Journey
Sunday, September 1

McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Grab your picnic chairs, blankets, and dancing shoes for our Sunset Concert featuring Forejour on the Front Lawn at McGrail!

Vine to Wine
Sunday, September 1
San Pedro Square Market, San Jose

Bay Area’s largest wine & food event showcasing Santa Clara Valley wineries.

Sunset Hike Experience
Friday, September 6
Murrieta’s Well, Livermore

Embark on a memorable journey with our picturesque hike through the golden hour hues of our estate vineyards. At the summit, unwind and indulge in a bottle of wine paired with a picnic box. Take in the sunset over the Livermore Valley while savoring the flavors of our estate wines, creating unforgettable moments amidst the beauty of our vineyard landscape.

Sunday Morning Hike Experience
Sunday, September 8
Murrieta’s Well, Livermore

Embark on a sensory journey as you explore the charm of our vineyards and a refreshing hike across our estate. Upon your return, treat yourself to a tasting experience paired with Brunch bites either in our rustic barrel room or on our sun-kissed patio.

Fall Tasting Event at Woodside Vineyards
September 7—8, 2024
Woodside Vineyards, San Carlos

Join us for our annual Fall Tasting Event, where you can taste our new and existing wines September 7-8 from 12-4 p.m and get special discounts on select vintage wine

Into the Fog: Wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains
Friday, September 13

Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyards, Woodside
Two factors greatly impact Santa Cruz Mountain wines: ocean influence and complex mountain topography. Experience the distinct aromas and flavor profiles derived from these factors as you taste wines from the northern part of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. Tasting salon and winemaker dinner at Thomas Fogarty Winery featuring the cuisine of Chef Scott Cooper of Le Papillon. Reception begins at 5pm; Dinner starts at 6:30pm. Sneak peek of the menu available here.

Wine & Food Faire featuring Thomas Fogarty Winery, Lexington Wine Co., Precedent Wines & Ghostnote Wines
Saturday, September 14
Thomas Fogarty Winery & Vineyards, Woodside 

We are excited to host a collaboration event between Thomas Fogarty Winery, Lexington Wine Co. & our winegrower and assistant winemaker label Precedent and Ghostnote! Taste through flights from all four producers, enjoy lunch from Curveball Sliders and live music overlooking Silicon Valley. Spend the afternoon mingling with this talented winemaking team. Sample various winemaking styles and learn about different exciting varietals.

Falconry and Wine Tasting Experience
Saturday, September 14
Murrieta’s Well Winery, Livermore

Your adventure begins as you’re welcomed with an introductory wine and meet our expert falconer, who will enlighten you on the role birds of prey play in sustainable farming practices. Learn how these birds help protect our grapes from other birds and contribute to preserving our vineyards during the harvest period. After a demonstration, guests will conclude their experience with a wine tasting.

Bubbly & Beats
Sunday, September 15
McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Join us at McGrail as we celebrate the release of our brand new Gracie Sparkling Wine! We will have a mimosa bar, DJ Michael Ramponi will be playing all the best throwbacks, food trucks will be on site with food for purchase, & local vendor pop-ups will be available to shop from!

Harvest Winemaker Dinner
Friday, September 20
Murrieta’s Well, Livermore

Join us for an enchanting harvest evening in our barrel room, featuring a curated dining experience with our acclaimed Winemaker, Robbie Meyer. Enjoy a four-course dinner expertly paired with our estate wines, as Robbie guides us through each wine and its pairing.

Vinyasa & Vino with Audrey Allen
Saturday, September 21
McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Join us at McGrail Vineyards for a peaceful and tranquil start to your weekend with a rejuvenating morning yoga session amidst panoramic views of the Livermore Valley and wine tasting to follow!

Sunday Morning Hike Experience
Sunday, September 22
Murrieta’s Well, Livermore

Embark on a sensory journey as you explore the charm of our vineyards and a refreshing hike across our estate. Upon your return, treat yourself to a tasting experience paired with Brunch bites either in our rustic barrel room or on our sun-kissed patio.

Cabernet Celebration at McGrail Vineyards
Sunday, September 22
McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Join us at McGrail Vineyards as we celebrate the release of our 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, our 16th edition! Enjoy wine tasting, live music, local food trucks, & panoramic views of the Livermore Valley!

Evening Under the Stars with Pasquale
Saturday, September 28
McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Join us at McGrail Vineyards for an evening under the stars with famed Italian Tenor, Pasquale Esposito!

Terroir-to-Table Wine Pairing Experience
September 1—29, 2024
Murrieta’s Well, Livermore

Join us for an enriching wine and culinary experience curated by our expert team. Experience meticulously paired dishes and wines, curated by our seasoned ambassadors and winemaker Robbie Meyer. Explore the intricacies of wine alongside Chef Daniel’s culinary artistry through a captivating 5-course pairing. Delve into the history, production, and terroir of our estate while savoring each unique flavor. Every Sunday from 11am – 12:30pm. $95 per person | club discount applies Reservation required. All guests must be 21 and over for this experience.

Celtic Wine & Seafood Festival at McGrail Vineyards
Sunday, September 29
McGrail Vineyards and Winery, Livermore

Join us for a festive afternoon on the Front Lawn at McGrail Vineyards as we bring the spirit of Ireland to the heart of Livermore wine country! Enjoy a delightful combination of Celtic wines, fresh seafood, and live Irish music.

Wente nth Degree Merlot Vertical
September 1—30, 2024
Wente Vineyards, Livermore

Experience the nuances aging can make in this Merlot vertical. Indulge in a side by side comparison of the 2019, 2020 and 2021 of our nth Degree series, the pinnacle of the Wente Vineyards portfolio.

Wente California Wine Duo
September 1—30, 2024
Wente Vineyards, Livermore

For the month of September enjoy a Wente Vineyards wine duo sourced from two iconic California growing regions, Livermore Valley, San Francisco Bay AVA & Arroyo Seco, Monterey County AVA. This Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon duo is a classic representation of California and the wines it does best.

Cave Tour & Barrel Tasting Experience
September 1—30, 2024
Wente Vineyards, Livermore

Discover the captivating history of Wente Vineyards’ wine caves and indulge in an unforgettable journey through our tirage building to the wine caves. Lose yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you explore the wine caves and savor the extraordinary experience of a barrel tasting in the heart of the Bay Area.

Celebrate CA Wine Month with the Livermore Valley Wine Passport!
September 1—December 31, 2024
34 Participating Livermore Valley Wineries, Livermore

The Livermore Valley Wine Passport is our personal invitation for you to come explore this wine region that has historical roots dating back to the 1800’s and has now hosted six generations of winemakers and growers. 

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Live Music: Gipsy All Stars
Sunday, September 15
Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards, San Luis Obispo

Enjoy Kelsey wines paired with music by the Gipsy All-Stars, a Central Coast jazz band led by band leader/guitarist Toan Chau.

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Melville’s Harvest Jubilee & 25th Anniversary
Saturday, September 28
Melville Winery, Lompoc

Join us for a celebration of harvest and 25 years of winemaking at our second-annual Harvest Jubilee! Live bluegrass band, 100% estate wines, BBQ dinner.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

Steve Abrams/Sam Kellerman Duo at Cooper Garrod Estate Winery
Sunday, September 1
Cooper Garrod Farms Estate Winery & Stables, Saratoga

Enjoy wines from Cooper Garrod, winner of the 2024 California Green Medal Sustainable Winegrowing Community Award, paired with music by the Steve Abrams / Sam Kellerman Duo.

Sip With Us Livermore
September 1—30, 2024
Livermore Downtown, Livermore

In celebration of September’s California Wine Month “Sip with Us Livermore” supports local dining establishments and Livermore wineries by encouraging patrons to bring in a bottle of their favorite Livermore produced wine to enjoy at participating downtown Livermore eateries. This exciting pilot program will drum up enthusiasm for purchasing Livermore produced wine and enjoying it while dining in downtown Livermore in September. The initiative encourages patrons to use their wine and dine dollars right here in our community!

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Escondido Grape Day Festival
September 14—August 14, 2024
Grape Day Park, Escondido

Bring the family along to this free festival that dates back to 1908. It includes grape stomping, local wine tasting, food vendors, antique farm machinery, children’s games, and live music.

TEMECULA

Temecula Wines Annual CRUSH
Saturday, September 7
Monte de Oro, Temecula

CRUSH is back in Temecula Valley where over 30 member wineries will be showcased at Monte de Oro Winery.

Killer Dueling Pianos at Fazeli Cellars
Saturday, September 14
Fazeli Cellars Winery, Temecula

Full Bar, Food, Show

The Killer Dueling Pianos will rock Fazeli Cellars on Saturday, September 14th! Enjoy as they battle it out with some of your favorite songs over the piano. Tickets: $40 Non-Member | $30 Members | $50 at the door Food and drinks available starting at 5pm at the outdoor courtyard (food ends 8pm), 6pm show starts (full bar open until 930pm) 21+ ONLY

Comedy Night at Fazeli Cellars
Saturday, September 21
Fazeli Cellars Winery, Temecula

Join us for a night of laughs with K-VON! Known around the world as the most famous half-Persian comedian – each month millions of people enjoy his hilarious clips online. Full bar and flights & bites start at 5pm (food ends 8pm) | show starts at 6pm VIP spots available

Ponte Winery 22nd Annual Grape Stomp
Sunday, September 22
Ponte Winery, Temecula

Sure to be a fun filled afternoon with lively grape stomping competition with prizes, a wonderfully prepared Harvest Buffet and Beer & Wine Bar!

South Coast Winery’s Annual Grape Stomps in the Vineyards
September 20—22, 2024
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula

For first-time grape stompers and those who enjoy this special experience every year, South Coast Winery’s Annual Grape Stomps are an exhilarating way to celebrate the harvest of the vineyards’ estate grown grapes with an opportunity to stomp these precious grapes in a charming winery location. In the Vintner’s Garden, guests will be able to shop from local vendors, swing to live musical entertainment and, best of all, sip some exceptional award-winning wines. The cost is $50, which includes grape stomp for two, tasting for two and a deposit per couple to be applied toward case purchases on the day of event attended.

Karaoke Night at Masia de la Vinya Winery
Friday, September 27
Masia de la Vinya Winery, Temecula

It’s time to rock the mic with your family and friends or dare to be brave and belt out your favorite solo tunes.

Flights & Bites at Fazeli Cellars
September 7—28, 2024
Fazeli Cellars Winery, Temecula

Join us for Flights & Bites every Friday & Saturday in September from 5pm-9pm! (food available from 5-8pm) Our full bar will be open for wine, beer, sangria and cocktail service as well as our flights & bites food menu, complete with entertainment each night!

Salsa Night at Fazeli Cellars
Saturday, September 28
Fazeli Cellars Winery, Temecula

Dress Black & White Salsa Night! Flights & Bites menu and bar open 5-8pm | Salsa lesson at 6pm | Dance, dance, dance! $30 Non-Member | $25 Members | $35 at the door 21+ ONLY

Flight & Bites
September 1—30, 2024
Visit Temecula Valley, Temecula

Coming Soon This September Celebrate Wine Month in Temecula Valley with the ultimate Flights & Bites experience.

Mary Jo Manzanares
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