Address: | 10701 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448, USA |
Phone: | +1 707-473-2909 |
Site: | garyfarrellwinery.com |
Rating: | 4.4 |
Working: | 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM 10AM–3:30PM |
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Jaime Phalen
This is a mixed review. STAFF: 2 stars. We had an appointment for 1 pm but arrived about 20 minutes early. We waited at the hostess stand for 5 minutes while staff walked by ignoring us. We then walked around the corner into the tasting room, where 4 or 5 staff looked busy cleaning stemware. Despite a group of 6 people, they largely ignored us until one of us spoke up. When I informed them of our appointment, they said "Well see you AT 1 pm", emphasizing the AT. No smile. Nothing. We then went onto the patio where another staff member shushed us for being apparently too boisterous. Well, excuuuuse us for speaking. At 1 pm promptly, a certified somm brought us into the private tasting room. Only after 20 minutes of being with our raucous group did the frost thaw from her icey personality and she finally began to warm up to us. Had we not read about the wines and known about Gary Farrells reputation for winemaking, we would have walked out and this would end the review. Fortunately, for this winery, their products stand head and shoulders above the impenetrable snobbiness of the staff. WINE & FACILITY: 5 stars. There arent enough superlatives to describe the excellent wines that we tasted and truly enjoyed as part of our private tasting. Each was excellent and more than one stood out as cellar-worthy. We took the high road here and overlooked our rude treatment and went ahead and purchased several bottles. I can only hope that future visitors are given a warmer and more respectful welcoming than was afforded to us. If we return, it will be for the wine alone.
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Alice Chiu
Had a good time visiting GF for its scenic view of the Russian River Valley and amazing wines. Was lucky to try the rose of Pinot Noir outside the wine tasting list - wow. I normally have no affinity to rose, but that was the most memorable wine that day. Both the tasting room and outdoor terrace had beautiful view of the valley. Our host was also very patient in educating us about their wines and accommodating to our short visit. GF may be a little bit out of the way and not the cheapest place for wine tasting, its worth a visit.
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Herve Thomas
Recently had diner in a very good restaurant in Miami, we asked for a light, red, fruity wine. Sommelier recommended Russian River 2012... ho my....!!! I will never thank that guy enough: I almost had an orgasm. :o)).. Seriously, it is an excellent wine, really had a blast, with the food (ravioles), and finished it with a cheese plater..?? (with very good bread) absolutely SUPERB. WIll get some asap. PS: Im a French guy, I worked in many kitchens, and knows a little about wines.. (its genetic).
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Amanda Medrano-White
Wonderful winery! We hadnt been in quite some time and they now require reservations on the weekends. We hadnt made a reservation, but they werent busy and quickly set us up a table for tasting. They also offer cheese and charcuterie plates, which are quite tasty. The wines are all wonderful! They are known for their Pinot Noir, but have a tasty Zin as well. And if you are sitting outside, you have the most beautiful view of the rolling hills and vines.
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Ron Rotella
We were there last Friday the 10th, and had a great time. The winery and view are beautiful. The staff was great and we learned a great deal about the areas history. It ended with a wine and cheese pairing that was amazing. Thanks for everything, Ron & Mark
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Adrian Sanchez
I cant believe it has taken me years to find this great place. Driving on Westside road in Russian River Valley helped us finding another great winery in Sonoma. The wines are fantastic, Pinot Noir being the best one and we even became wine members. Great wines, the location is amazing with the best views of Sonoma Valley in Russian River. Staff is super friendly and the place still feels low-key as living in Sonoma. Cheers!
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A Private User
Great location, good wine but was the only place that charged big fees ($10 per person for the basic and another $15 for the rest), none of which credited toward purchase. The "basic" was unimpressive and since we were there we tried the other. It was a special moment when we purchased $300 of wine, plus a pricey freight charge and the tasting bill for four of us was presented. You do the math. Outrageous!
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A Private User
Couldnt agree with Steve more. Despite the great view and quality wine, the $15 tasting fee for patrons is still being enforced and is a turn-off for buyers. I understand if customers come along and buy nothing. We would have bought more wine, but the tasting fee not being waived was poor form. Weve decided to be more strategic about buying at wineries with high tasting fees.
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Phil Sundberg
I dont like Pinots, that is until we went to Gary Farrell. Its very rare when we like 100% of the wines we tasted, let alone Pinots, but we have seen the light! Great wines, fantastic view and our host Ed took his time and made our visit one of the most rewarding in 6 days of wine tasting. Highly recommended!
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Patrick Hiller
Out of the 12 tasting tours this was our fave by far. Our Som Pierre was so nice and knowledgeable. The facility and view was amazing. The non oaked Chard was amazing and the best was the Pinot Noir. This is a must tasting!!
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Eric Medeiros
So accommodating and kind to all of us! Their wine was fantainstic and even though we came in late in the day they were more than willing to work with us! Amazing experience and will sure be back soon!
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Anna Hautzinger
Gary Farrell Winery is a lovely facility on a hilltop. The building is new, and the views stunning. The wines are good, but the tasting fee is a bit pricey.
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Monty Brown
We enjoyed ourselves so much that we curtailed our itinerary for the day so that we could spend more time here. Lydia, the wine educator, was delightful.
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Kenard Puchalski
Sumptuous Pinot Noir. Great tasting and tour. Knowledgable staff.
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Casey Ho
Beautiful tasting room and view. Great service and wines.
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Jason Bell
Incredible views, and Quinn was an awesome host!
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Andrew Newman
Great wine, great property, great view!
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Tom Kuhne
Great views. Amazing wine!
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Erin Garmon
The view is spectacular