Guide to Visiting Kendall-Jackson Winery

Kendall-Jackson is one of the biggest names in California wine, and Sonoma County is K-J’s home turf. Visiting Kendall-Jackson Winery is more than wine tasting — it’s an educational and culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Here’s a handy guide to this exceptional winery so you can see it for yourself in scenic Sonoma County Wine Country. 

Join the Court of K-J

In 1996, Jackson Family Wines purchased a magnificent chateau-style winery estate (the former Chateau de Baun) at the gateway to Sonoma County Wine Country in Santa Rosa. Surrounded by lush gardens and vineyards, Kendall-Jackson Winery is conveniently located near the 101 freeway and offers ample parking.

You can explore the winery’s peaceful, park-like setting on a self-guided or guided tour with wine tasting. Stroll through the rose gardens and vines, relax in a gazebo surrounded by mature trees, and revel in the delights of the fragrant “sensory gardens.”

Inside the modern visitor center, you’ll find a video display that swoops and plunges to showcase Kendall-Jackson’s many mountainside vineyards, which stretch throughout Sonoma County and beyond. 

The Range of Kendall-Jackson Wines 

Many are familiar with K-J’s Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, the buttery, oaky style blend that made K-J a household name. For others, the Avant Chardonnay is a favorite, aged in stainless steel and ‘neutral’ barrels that do not impart a woody essence but round out the crisp edges of its fresh-pear flavor. Don’t forget the high-quality Grand Reserve Chardonnay (crafted in smaller amounts) with softer caramel and crisp lemon flavors.

Jackson Estate and Stature Cabernet Sauvignon round out the selection of K-J’s top wines. Signature and estate tastings are available and can be booked in advance.

Food Pairings and Tips for Visitors 

One of K-J’s greatest attractions is its gourmet food and wine pairing experiences. The winery may hold special farm-to-table dinners with seasonal menus prepared by the executive chef and featuring produce from the onsite culinary gardens. Popular wine-and-cheese and wine- and-chocolate pairings may also appear on the events calendar.

Between courses and tastes, wander the Kendall-Jackson demonstration vineyard, originally planted by viticulture students at Santa Rosa Junior College. Just in case there’s a test: Ampelography is the practice of identifying grapevines, beginning with the shape of the leaves. When it’s close to harvest, grape clusters provide a few hints, too.

Meet the Winery Ambassador

Kendall-Jackson has many winemakers but only one wine master. Since 1997, Randy Ullom has coordinated winemaking operations for this large, family-owned company. Discover more about Kendall-Jackson’s wine ambassador Randy Ullom.

Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate & Gardens, 5007 Fulton Road, Fulton, 707-576-3810