Bowman Cellars — Attraction in Forestville

Where to start???? So many wineries around Santa Rosa, some awesome, some clearly not. Some very cool, some stuck up, others very modest and humble. So many choices. Well.....Alex and Katie Bowman offer the perfect mix. Cool, chic, laid back, fun, outstanding wine at a very, very modest price given the quality (unlike many other wineries). Focus on their chill, laid back, fun atmosphere.

Let me dive in with the details. The whole experience starts with Katie and Flyn (the dynamic duo). Alex is often busy running their new venture (and amazing bar called the Third Pig in Sebastopol (another must see). Exceeding customer expectations is at the forefront of their service motto. Yet, they still find a way to spend time with each customer, so you feel like by the time you leave you are part of the family.

Both Katie and Alex are from families with deep roots in the area, so their knowledge, experience and connections in the wine and service business are extensive. Their staff also have multi-generational ties to the area. This enables them to share the best of the best with their friends, family, members and visitors.

Our story is simple. Although our last name is Bowman, we are not related. Our first visit (several years ago) was planned just as a check it out look/see visit. From the moment we arrived, met the Bowman team, enjoyed the wine, the weather, the ambiance and their location, we knew that we had stumbled into something very special. Whenever we travel to the area, we always, always make sure we reserve time to drop in. This past May we did their Kentucky Derby event and it was beyond memorable. The interaction amongst all of the attendees was a hoot, the food was great, wine even better and nobody left disappointed.

We popped in on Friday, August 11th for their happy hour. Lucky for us (again). What a perfect alignment of the stars. New Chef (who is really stellar) offering up Smash Burgers (yum, yum) and a lot of other really tasty offerings. Out on the porch, we all chilled with our friends, met other visitors, got our dog fix (Our guy had to stay home in Seattle), enjoyed the super weather, music, wine and food. Definitely worth the short drive to Graton to Bowman Cellars. Check out the other testimonials and their pictures and you will see why we are not the only ones who have keyed into their perfect combination.

Nuff said!!!!

Go and enjoy and tell them that the Northern Bowman Clan (again no relations) recommended you give them a...

5 star rating on their tasting room, customer service AND their wines! The space is lovely: tucked into the quiet community of Graton, the tasting room has a large outdoor space filled with comfy seating. The landscaping is lovely and makes you feel like your are having a drink in a friend's back yard. the the interior is eclectic and fun with amusing paintings throughout, fun wall paper and rustic seating. The space is bright, light and casual. I became a wine club member for the wine, but stayed for the outdoor space. Kate and Alex are so very kind, enthusiastic and fun. They are never stuffy and genuinely enjoy making their wine and sharing it with the world. Along with Amanda, they are also attentive, detail oriented and helpful. THEIR WINE: The Chardonnay, not too oaky, bright and savory glug glug The Rose, well balanced acidity and sweetness (which I find rare of California roses), reminds me of provencal roses, PERFECT on a hot day glug glug glug The Zinfandel, spicy but red and black fruit jammy without being like you are eating a jar of jam. Spicy finish. glug...

I recently had the pleasure of enjoying a picturesque picnic lunch at the Bowman winery estate. It was nothing short of magical. The setting was serene and inviting and so was Kelly our host. The curated lunch was filled with amazing sandwiches, artisanal cheeses, nuts, dried fruit and a selection of gourmet delights, perfectly paired with the estate’s finest wines. Sipping on a delightful Zin while chatting with Kelly was an unforgettable experience. The attention to detail, warm hospitality, and exquisite flavors made this picnic a truly delightful escape. A must-visit for anyone seeking a charming, unpretentious and...