Joie de Vella

We've got you covered on three of wine country's most important ingredients for an amazing day: wine, cheese, and a hike. Not in that order though. Start with the cheese. Sonoma's Vella Cheese has been making all-natural goodness since 1931. All the milk in their award-winning cheese comes from a local, sustainably farmed family dairy where cows range free. The Daisy Cheddar, Regular Dry Monterey Jack, and Romanello Dolce are always good bets, but everything's tasty here. Sample the cheese for yourself at Vella's historic store just a few blocks from the busy plaza, pick up your favorites, and head to nearby Bartholomew Park Winery for a hike.

Bartholomew is surrounded by open space with miles of trails. We recommend a 3-mile round-trip hike starting on the You-Walk Miwok Trail. Wind next to neighboring wineries and beside a stream before climbing up to the best view on the property. Szeptaj Point will have you swooning; on clear days views extend across the valley and vineyards. Continue on to Benicia's Lake, a quiet oasis shrouded in redwoods with a bench perfect for wine country ogling. The Grape Stomp Trail takes you back to the start. Visit Bartholomew's tasting room, pick up some Estate Zinfandel and take it out to the oak-tree dotted picnic ground. Valley to vineyard views, a vino-and-Vella pairing: Vive Sonoma!

Vella Cheese is located at 315 Second St. E., Sonoma. NOTE: It is closed on Sundays. Bartholomew Park Winery is at 1000 Vineyard Ln., east of Vella. No dogs inside Vella, but Bartholomew Park is dog-friendly!