St. Francis Celebrated at 2025 Sonoma County Tourism Awards

We’re thrilled to share some incredible news—St. Francis Winery & Vineyards has been named the winner of the 2025 Sonoma County Tourism Stars of the Industry Awards for Community Enrichment. This award honors individuals, businesses, and initiatives that help elevate Sonoma County as a premier destination through acts of service, stewardship, and positive community impact. To be recognized in this category is deeply meaningful to us, as giving back is at the very heart of who we are.

As a winery inspired by the values of our namesake, St. Francis of Assisi—the patron saint of animals and ecology—we are proud to weave compassion, service, and connection into everything we do. Our commitment to community enrichment is more than a mission—it’s a legacy we live every day.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Over the years, we’ve created and supported initiatives that foster connection, compassion, and hope across Sonoma County. Our partnership with Canine Companions® has grown into one of our most cherished collaborations. Through the generosity of our guests, team, and partners, we’re on track to reach an incredible $500,000 in donations by 2025—helping to provide life-changing service dogs to people with disabilities.

Every October, we host the beloved Blessing of the Animals, a joyful community celebration that brings together local families, pets, wildlife organizations, and animal welfare nonprofits like the Humane Society of Sonoma County. This gathering isn’t just about celebrating our four-legged friends—it’s about raising awareness and funds for causes that matter.

Our team also comes together each year for the Joe Martin Day of Service, an annual tradition honoring our founder’s legacy by closing our doors for a day to volunteer in the community. Whether restoring local trails with LandPaths or mentoring students at Kid Street School, these acts of service are a meaningful reminder of our shared purpose.

During the holiday season, our commitment continues with an annual Toy & Clothing Drive benefiting organizations such as Valley of the Moon Children’s Foundation. Even the coins guests toss into our fountain throughout the year are collected and donated to support this cause—proof that small acts of generosity can ripple out in powerful ways.

A Nod to Exceptional Hospitality

While we didn’t take home the award in the Customer Experience category this year, we’re incredibly proud to have been named a finalist—and honored to stand alongside other businesses committed to hospitality excellence.

At St. Francis, hospitality is more than service—it’s a culture. Our “Culture of Thank You” guides every interaction, from the first phone call or email to the last sip of wine. It’s our way of making every guest feel genuinely welcomed, valued, and part of our extended family.

This dedication shines especially bright in the stories we hear from our guests. One of the most memorable came from a former Wine Club member whose final wish was to recreate our Wine & Food Pairing experience at home. With love and care, our team worked with Executive Chef Peter Janiak to make it happen—proof that the bonds formed here go far beyond the tasting room.

Thank You for Being Part of Our Story 

We share this recognition with every member of our team and extended community—your belief in what we do and why we do it is what makes honors like this possible. Thank you for helping us shine a light on the work that enriches lives, connects people, and makes Sonoma County so special. 

We look forward to continuing this journey with you—raising a glass not only to great wine but to the incredible community we’re proud to serve. 

A big congratulations to all the nominees and winners! View the full list of winners here and watch the inspiring finalist videos here.