Bar none, the Lambert Bridge Winery, near Healdsburg CA. has the one of the prettiest picnic areas in California wine country. As we mentioned in our last blog post, the Dry Creek area is no longer a secret and hidden area. On weekends tourists flock to the Dry Creek Valley so much so that often all accommodation in nearby Healdsburg are booked solid. A better choice is to visit the Dry Creek area and Lambert Bridge during the week. From San Francisco, you can get to Lambert Bridge in about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic through Santa Rosa.
Lambert Bridge is located on the very quiet side of the Dry Creek Valley on West Dry Creek Road. The fall is definitely the best time to picnic here but really any time of the year is wonderful. The best way to get to Lambert Bridge is take the Dry Creek Exit off 101 and head west about four miles to the Lambert Bridge Road. Turn left, and this road takes you to the Lambert Bridge and over Dry Creek to West Dry Creek Road. Turn left to Lambert Bridge Winery. Before you turn left to go over Lambert Bridge you may want to stop and buy your picnic lunch at the Dry Creek General Store. Rumor has it that the store, founded in 1881, is now owned by Gina Gallo.
I’m a little disappointed at some of the changes that have taken place at the Lambert Bridge winery in recent years. Now there is a tasting fee of $10 and the wines have jumped in price. I say, forget tasting here, just stop in the tasting room and to the left is a small wine cooler. Pull out a chilled bottle of their delicious Sauvignon Blanc and when you pay for the wine ask the server for glasses. Then enjoy a wonderful and relaxing picnic lunch.
Picnics are simply fun. It is definitely wise to save for the rainy days, considering the current economy. Picnics are great way to have a staycation.. Not to mention, that kids love to be outdoors all the time. It’s a perfect combination. Dont for get to bring your picnic baskets and enjoy.