Jacuzzi Family Winery
24724 Arnold Dr, Sonoma, CA 95476
Website: http://www.jacuzziwines.com/
The cobblestone building of Jacuzzi Family Vineyards drew in my husband and me from the road. We have driven by the winery many times as we take Route 121 to highway 101 to San Francisco. Cline, Gloria Ferrer, and Viansa are all within a short distance of each other on the same route. This same stretch of road takes you to Highway 12 in southern Sonoma. There are lots of wineries in this part of Sonoma and it is easy to spend a day or two in this area.
Most people associate the name Jacuzzi with hot tubs. It is the same family who owns the winery. The Jacuzzi brothers started their factory in Berkeley, CA in 1921 where they manufactured water well pumps and eventually the bath and spas that are well known today. Valeriano, one of those brothers, purchased a 161 acre farm in Northern California and moved his family there. He began planting grapes for home consumption in 1936.
Jacuzzi’s courtyard
There are a few reasons why I would recommend a stop at this winery. First, it is easily accessible from route 121 when passing through from Napa or San Francisco. Second, the cobblestone building, stone fountain, and grand piazza make for pretty pictures. It is especially striking lit up in the evening. Third, the Olive Press Olive Oil Tasting Room is located inside the winery where visitors can see the olive oil processing equipment and sample a number of different oils. This was my favorite part. There are also a number of other delicacies and olive themed gifts. One other important bonus is the complimentary tasting of the lovely Italian style non-reserve wines. If you are like me, you’ll appreciate the wines so much that you’ll be willing to pay the small fee to sample the additional wines. It’s well worth it!
A view of Carneros from Jacuzzi Family Winery