A First for St. Francis: A National Win Worth Celebrating

Big news is flowing through Sonoma County, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it—St. Francis Winery & Vineyards has been named a winner in the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards 2026! In our very first year being recognized in this nationally celebrated program by Newsweek, we’re honored to take home not one, but two awards: Best Tasting Room and Best Wine Tour for our Tour de St. Francis Trolley Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting. These awards are especially meaningful because they’re driven by votes from guests and wine lovers across the country—people like you who have sipped, savored, and experienced all that we have to offer. If you’ve ever searched for the best winery, explored Sonoma wineries, or looked for the best wine tours or a truly fun thing to do in wine country, this recognition is a reflection of the moments we create every day.

Where Hospitality Meets Award-Winning Wine

At the heart of our award-winning tasting room is something simple but powerful—hospitality. From the moment you arrive, our team is dedicated to making you feel welcomed, relaxed, and inspired to explore. It’s this spirit of connection, paired with breathtaking vineyard views, that transforms a tasting into something memorable. Of course, the experience begins with the wine, and our portfolio showcases the very best of Sonoma County, thoughtfully crafted by our talented winemakers, Chris Louton and Katie Madigan. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite or revisiting a classic, each glass tells a story of place and passion. We’re also proud to be a destination where everyone feels at home—our winery is both dog-friendly and family-friendly—making it easy to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the day together. For those looking to elevate their visit even further, our culinary experiences offer a delicious way to explore the art of pairing, while wine club members can enjoy exclusive access to our Member Parlor and special benefits that make every visit feel like an insider experience.

The Best Wine Tour in Sonoma—With a Twist

And then there’s the adventure that helped earn us the title of Best Wine Tour—our Tour de St. Francis Trolley Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting. This isn’t your typical wine tour; it’s an experience designed for laughter, connection, and a little bit of fun along the way. Imagine pedaling through our Wild Oak Estate Vineyard with a glass of wine in hand, surrounded by sweeping views of Hood Mountain and the rolling beauty of Sonoma Valley. Along the journey, you’ll stop to take in the scenery, learn about our sustainable farming practices and winemaking philosophy, and truly immerse yourself in the land that shapes every bottle. It’s the perfect outing for groups, celebrations, bachelorette parties, or even unforgettable wedding and event experiences. The tour concludes with a terrace tasting where the views continue to impress and the experience lingers just a little longer.

Plan Your Visit: Come See What Everyone’s Talking About

While we’re incredibly honored by this recognition, what excites us most is the opportunity to share these experiences with you. Over the years, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards has proudly been named among the best by both the SFGATE Best of Bay Area Awards and the Press Democrat Best of Sonoma County Awards—earning top honors for Best Winery and Best Tasting Room. To now be recognized on a national stage with the Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is not only an incredible milestone, but a meaningful reflection of the experiences we’ve built together with our guests—and a moment we’re proud to celebrate.

That same spirit of excellence and hospitality carries through every experience we offer. Beyond our award-winning tasting room and trolley tour, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered—from our immersive Secrets of Sonoma culinary experience to our beloved Wine & Food Pairings and a full calendar of winery events designed to bring people together. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another unforgettable day, there’s never been a better time to experience why St. Francis Winery & Vineyards continues to be named one of the best wineries in Sonoma. Come see it for yourself, raise a glass with us, and be part of what makes this place so special. Cheers!