Matanzas Creek Winery

A hidden gem in Sonoma County, Matanzas Creek Winery is off the beaten path, located in the Bennett Valley just outside Santa Rosa.

Situated between Taylor Mountain, Sonoma Mountain, and Bennett Peak, viticulture in Bennett Valley dates back to the 1800s when Isaac DeTurk began growing grapes and producing wine. However, DeTurk’s venture was short-lived due to a phylloxera outbreak that destroyed his grapes. Prohibition soon followed, and significant grape-growing was not seen again in the valley until it was revived by Matanzas Creek Winery.

Founded in 1977, Matanzas Creek Winery quickly put the area on the map as a top wine-producing region with their Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir wines.

Adding to their world-class wines, Matanzas Creek planted lavender gardens along the drive into the winery in 1991.

Truly spectacular in sight and smell, lavender gardens, native grasses, and olive groves greet guests, inviting them to enter the inspiring and tranquil environment.

With a tasting room tucked amongst the trees above the vineyards and lavender gardens, Matanzas Creek Winery is a perfect spot to spend a quiet afternoon taking in the panoramic view while sampling their excellent wines.

The yields of the lavender fields are used to create a wide assortment of lavender products and decorative accessories – all available in the beautiful, spacious tasting room.

Enjoyed on the deck outside the tasting room, the Matanzas Creek artisan cheese, and wine pairing is one of our favorite leisure pursuits in Sonoma County. Sampling limited-production wines and local artisan cheeses, combined with the serene setting, make for the perfect wine-country afternoon.