Scharffenberger Cellars — Attraction in California

Love their sparkling wine (especially the LHD) and as Fort Bragg locals we have enjoyed stopping in for a glass to break up the drive from Santa Rosa. I don't recommend going on wine club weekend. Staff (only 1 person) could not be bothered to be friendly or kind. Received an ugly side-eye upon arrival - no hello, no smile, just annoyance. I went in and waited patiently while said staff member finished helping others. When I made it to the counter they wouldn't let me finish my request and just said "no" before I could ask for a couple glasses of wine (not a tasting). Realized our presence was just an inconvenience, told them so and left. To be fair they did offer to pour glasses as I was already walking out. Makes me sad, but not inclined to stop by again...

We were looking for a place to feed our baby on the way home from a trip and Gowan’s Cider was sadly closed, probably because of the Super Bowl. We checked out the gorgeous property of Scharffenberger instead and I would’ve been happy to feed the baby in the parking lot, but my husband asked the one remaining employee and even though they were trying to close up early for the game, they very generously invited us to come in. We each had one glass of delicious bubbly in the VIP lounge, which they’re currently using until the tasting room reopens later this spring, and enjoyed learning about the winery and the area from the very kind and knowledgeable employee. Such a great way to round out our trip, we’re grateful to have found this port in the...

you know when some people just shouldn't be in a "service" role? Arrived and the place is empty... the woman in charge had a very regimented approach to how things should work: it was minus ten degrees in the shade and the bench in the sparse sunshine, just a few feet away? was "not for tasting". When l asked why she told me - clearly rehearsed- "well this is the new normal". I replied, so my chance of catching Covid is increased by sitting on a warm bench? Long awkward pause, "well... no, it's easier for me" I thanked her, said I was done with the tasting, and bade...