Best Family Friendly Vineyards To See Grapes Harvested

Wine may be for adults but that doesn't mean you can't bring your children to a winery to experience the magic of winemaking. Vineyards north of San Francisco are some of the most beautiful areas in the state. California wine country inspired John Steinbeck and many other writers, so having children does not mean you can't take in the sense and sights of a winery. The following is a list of the best wineries to take the whole family to, including those under 21.

Arrowood Vineyards & Winery
14347 Sonoma Highway
Glen Ellen, CA 95442
(707) 935-2600
arrowoodvineyards.com

Arrowood Vineyards & Winery began in 1996 by Richard and Alis Arrowood and is now under the vintner expertise of Heidi von der Mehden. Arrowood creates full-bodied wines from Sonoma County. Public and private group wine tours are available for wine tastings and exploration of the grounds. Kids will enjoy watching the grapes harvested and crushed, but the chance to get their feet wet crushing grapes will really get them excited.

Related: Take A One Tank Trip To Downtown Sonoma

Benziger Family Winery

1883 London Ranch Road
Glen Ellen, CA 95442
(888) 490-2739
benziger.com

A family-run winery who has been in the wine industry for generations, this vineyard produces certified organic wines to reflect the family's "green" values. It is Earth and kid friendly and also hosts picnics for families who want to sample its finest vintners. The family practices sustainable farming that maintains the ecosystem's balance. A team of winemakers combine their knowledge to deliver prize-winning labels.

Arista Winery

7015 Westside Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 473-0606
aristawinery.com

The McWilliams family began this sustainable winery in 2002 and has gone on to make popular signature vintages outside of its native Sonoma County. Surrounded by natural beauty of fruit trees along with tennis courts and a Japanese tea garden, families can enjoy a picnic with their wine tour. Kids will also enjoy meeting the family's dogs, Lucy and Coco, who welcome all guests. The dogs are probably going to be the kid's favorite part of the visit.

Landmark Vineyards
101 Adobe Canyon Road
Kenwood, CA 95452
(707) 833-0053
landmarkwine.com

Not only can families visit Landmark Vineyards, but they can stay in the nearby cottages. The vineyards opened in 1974 and winemakers Greg Stach and Eric Stern have continued the tradition of bestselling bottles. The collection of Pinot Noir has made this winery world famous. Kids will enjoy the plush shrubbery and the quaint cottages that are almost out of a child's fairytale book.

Alexander Valley Winegrowers

8644 Highway 128
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(800) 654-1213
jordanwinery.com

Through the wines born out of the native grapes and soil of the Alexander Valley, this winery has attracted many to the rich heritage of the region. The winery is comprised of 26 winemakers who, as a collective, bring their best skills together. Explore over 13,000 acres with your loved ones, both young and old. One of the wineries in the collective is Jordan Vineyard.

Related: Best Farmers Markets In North Bay

Vérité Winery
4611 Thomas Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 433-9000
veritewines.com

Red Bordeaux is the name of the game for this Healdsburg-based vineyard. Many special events and public tastings offer a chance to visit and sample Vérité's collection. A short drive from San Francisco or Napa brings you to the world of Pierre Seillan's winemaking philosophy. Kids will enjoy running through the rolling hills of Chalk Hill.

Rheba Estante is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.