Ledson Winery & Vineyards – Nov ‘09 Winery of the Month
IMPECCABLE HOSPITALITY • EXQUISITE ATMOSPHERE • EXTRAORDINARY WINES
Leaving Downtown Sonoma we headed Northwest up Hwy 12, a beautiful drive lined with vineyards and history. With no destination in mind, we came upon a grand castle nestled among the vines. 
The pull to turn into the entrance was too much to fight. We found ourselves walking up an enticing path past budding vines, lush grounds and circular fountain towards a 16,000 square foot French Normandy Castle. Upon our arrival we were greeted by a sweeping staircase and a hostess who directed us to our tasting area complete with beautifully hand-crafted tasting bars.
It was almost closing time yet they were happy to accommodate us without making us feel rushed. After an unforgettable tasting of fine wines, we exited the winery through a gourmet marketplace and outside to a large inviting picnic area shadowed by 100-year old majestic oak trees. It was a place I didn’t want to leave but time to head back to Sonoma’s Square where we were staying. Walking along the back of the Castle past more rolling vineyards and yet another beautiful fountain, we were discussing it was time for a margarita after two full days of wine tasting. Little did we know our answer would come flying out the back employee door. Full of life and smiles, a woman introduced herself and explained she was on her way home after a day of working at the winery.
We inquired about the best place to find our cocktail and as quickly as she appeared, she disappeared back into the Castle. A few minutes later she came back out and said “Done, called my husband, let’s go” and lead us to La Casa. Now this is why I love Sonoma so much – she is a perfect example of the people here. They are warm, loving, generous and full of high spirits!
Now back to the winery, as it made a lasting impression on me that day in April of 2001. I ended up bringing a case of wine home to share with friends and they all agreed; this is grand juice! With over 70 wines to choose from, 20 different varietals and blends from 20 appellations, Ledson offers something for every palate – and may I add every budget as their wines range in price from $14 to $250. They specialize in small varietal lots that are sold only through the winery, in select restaurants and to club members as well as online. Ledson was the first wine club I joined in 2001 and today I am still a happy wine club member. Not one shipment, not one wine has let me down. They offer nine different clubs to choose from, catering to the wide range of tastes and price point preferences.
Quickly back to my Margarita Queen from Sonoma. She invited me back for a true Wine Country Thanksgiving with her family and who could resist, so plans were made. Upon my second visit to Sonoma she treated me to a private tasting at Ledson conducted by Jerry Padilla, assistant winemaker. The tasting was customized just for my palate and paired with an assortment of gourmet cheeses. Jerry’s passion for Ledson, winemaking and the area will inspire and delight you. His energy is contagious and his wisdom captivating. An appointment with Jerry is an experience all in itself and not to be missed. I highly recommend you call for a private tasting with him either outside on the terrace or in one of the intimate tasting rooms. 
If you cannot make it out to Sonoma at this time then I highly encourage you to go online and treat yourself and friends to these fine wines, especially now for the holidays. Feel free to contact Jerry and he’ll be happy to make recommendations for you centered around your taste and get your wines quickly mailed out to you. Their Pinot Noir is the perfect complement to any Thanksgiving feast!
Steve Ledson is a fifth generation Sonoma wine grower. He began building the castle in 1989 as his family home. Given the attention during construction and the quality of the Merlot grapes that were coming from the vineyard, Steve decided on a new direction and turned his home into a winery. With the support of winemaker Tom Mackey from St Francis, Steve also began to bottle his own fruit and in 1997 released his first wine, the 1994 Estate Merlot. Then in 1999 Ledson Winery opened their doors to visitors. Today there are 17 acres of vineyards on the estate grounds. Steve owns other vineyards in Sonoma, including 21 acres of “old vine” Zinfandel in Sonoma, 5,500 acres in Mendocino County and also in Anderson Valley. They also source some fruit from a select group of premiere vineyards throughout Alexander Valley, Russian River, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, Knights Valley, Lodi, Anderson Valley, Madera, Monterey, Lake County and Contra Costa.
Ledson Winery produces a number of varietals including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Rose, Port, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet France, Malbec, Sangiovese, Carignane, Meritage/Red Blends, Grenache along with Italian Varietals including Barbera, Primitivo as well as Rhone Varietals including Syrah, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre; then to complete the collection both a red and white dessert wine.
The wines are handled as little as possible during fermentation to allow the natural melding of the varietal and vineyards flavors. They are aged in a combination of American and French Oak barrels with a variety of toast levels to add complexity and richness.
As you can see, Steve takes great care and holds a daily personal interest in his wines, his employees, his family and his visitors. It came only natural for him to create a place where his wine club members could experience that same feeling of warmth by building a hotel on Sonoma’s historic downtown plaza. It’s another extension of the luxury and details that was created at the Castle. Upstairs on the second floor there are six elegant rooms with private balconies, whirlpool tubs, marble showers and fireplaces. Each room has a perfect view, either overlooking the Square or the rustic backstreet and great palm tree surrounded by blooming flowers.
Downstairs is the Harmony Lounge, an intimate and tranquil lounge with a cozy fireplace, comfy sofas and heated patio complete with bistro-style tables to relax and sip on cocktail while enjoying some light food or dessert. Here you can also enjoy a wine tasting of Ledson’s varietals.
Steve has been blessed with a good upbringing and success and does his part by giving back to others. He started the Harmony Foundation that helps children who aren’t as fortunate.
Throughout the year, Ledson hosts many exciting and memorable events. If your travels take you there for Thanksgiving, be sure to join them for the 26th annual holiday open house. A great place to truly enjoy time with loved ones and begin your holiday shopping in their gift boutique and marketplace.
