Paradise Ridge Winery Review
Address: 4545 Thomas Lake Harris Drive Santa Rosa,California 95403.
Phone Number: 707-528-9463
Tasting Hours: 11:00-5:00
Region: Sonoma County, Russian River Valley AVA, California
Reviewer: Sherrie Perkovich
Review Date: 5/26/2014
Reviewer: Sherrie Perkovich
Rating: 5
The Review
Paradise Ridge, located in the hills of Santa Rosa, is owned by the Byck Family. Walter Byck bought the winery property in 1978, and the winery became a reality in 1991. In addition to wine tasting with a stunning view of Santa Rosa and Russian River Valley, Paradise Ridge also boasts an eclectic art sculpture garden. The winery also has a quaint tasting room in downtown Kenwood.
The Winery:  The winery seems to be hidden in the middle of the town of Santa Rosa. When driving there, you will pass elegant homes on the beautiful Fountain Grove Parkway. It just doesnt seem possible that such an amazing winery is tucked away among the seemingly suburban landscape of Santa Rosa but it is. This stunning property is a destination of its own in wine country. Perfectly located in the middle of Sonoma County, wine lovers can start or finish their day here and travel to Russian River Valley, Dry Creek, Anderson Valley or Sonoma Valley with ease.
Paradise Ridge is appropriately named. Featuring a unique indoor/outdoor tasting bar with a covered deck overlooking the valley below, this is truly a magical setting for wine tasting. Paradise also has the space to host private events such as weddings and parties. Anyone looking for a unique and elegant location for a wedding or party really need look no further; paradise awaits.
The Tasting:  The tasting experience you have will depend on how much time you allow yourself. If you are a bit rushed for time, you certainly can walk in to the tasting room and experience a casual, standing tasting at the indoor/outdoor wine tasting bar. It will be impossible to ignore the rolling hills and gorgeous views set out before you. If you have a bit more time, grab one of the many seats lined up on the outdoor, covered deck to really enjoy the setting and wine. Every direction you look will be filled with beauty. If you allow for at least 90 minutes, you can be enlightened with the seated wine tasting experience and take a stroll through the eclectic art sculpture garden. The standard fee for the wine tasting experience is $10 per person. You should allow for at least 45 minutes. Any groups of 10 or more must be booked in advance and higher tasting fees apply. A $20 per person, seated wine and cheese pairing is also available and must be booked in advance. To book the Wine & Artisan Cheese Pairing, contact Ruthanne at Ruthanne@prwinery.com, or call 707-528-9463.
The Wines:  Dan Barwick is the masterful winemaker behind the wines at Paradise Ridge. Barwick is a true craftsman when it comes to the wines. They are elegant and well-balanced with lovely texture. He is also a great blender, so be sure to taste a few of his blends before you leave Paradise. Unique to only a handful of wineries in the area, Paradise Ridge crafts a few sparkling wines. Currently they are featuring their 2011 Blanc de Blanc Sparkling wine. This is an excellent wine to start and/or finish with. Paradise Ridge is more known for their red wines than their whites, but dont overlook these beauties, especially on a warm day in wine country. Leading the way in the reds are their Cabernet Sauvignons. Any Cab lover will be asking for a second taste of these subtle and smooth wines.
Tasting suggestions:
Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine – $39
Delight, Russian River Valley (aromatic white blend) $24
Brides Blush Rose, Russian River Valley – $20
Estate Pinot Noir, Pommard – $56
The Posse, Estate Rhone Style (proprietary red blend) – $54
Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon, Rockpile Vineyard – $45
Cabernet Franc, Rockpile Vineyard – $80
* BONUS: It isnt available often, but when it is, dont miss their Sparkling Shiraz. This unique sparkling wine will have you bubbling out of your shoes and ready to dance.
Insider Information:  In the summer months, on Wednesday evenings, visitors are invited to experience Wines & Sunsets where they can bring a picnic and enjoy Paradise Ridge wines while soaking in the stunning views as the sun sets over paradise. Vineyard tours are also available. These are self-guided tours and are free of charge. Simply check in at the tasting room to get the vineyard tour guide/map. The route is about .25 miles and includes the sculpture garden. Ladies, be sure to wear reasonable/flat shoes – the vineyard is no place for heels.
Starting on June 18th, Paradise Ridge will also be featuring Pizza in Paradise with pizzas from Rosso Pizzeria from 11am 3pm Wednesday through Sunday every week until October 26th. They will be featuring pizzas that pair particularly well with the Paradise Ridge wines.