We are a family-run operation of both wine grape farming and wine production, located at the northern end of the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County. Owned and operated by Jim and Eliza Rickards, the Vineyards have been planted over the past four decades, augmenting the original 1908 Zinfandel vines.
Our Darn Fine Brown Barn, built back in 1997 by our good friend Ron Marley, has since evolved from housing tractors to become our rustic tasting room overlooking the valley. Come on up for a visit and a walk through the Old Vine Zinfandel block or our innovative Wine Cave.
Our Darn Fine Brown Barn, built back in 1997 by our good friend Ron Marley, has since evolved from housing tractors to become our rustic tasting room overlooking the valley. Come on up for a visit and a walk through the Old Vine Zinfandel block or our innovative Wine Cave.
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We are a family-run operation of both wine grape farming and wine production, located at the northern end of the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County. Owned and operated by Jim and Eliza Rickards, the Vineyards have been planted over the past 30 years, augmenting the original 1908 Zinfandel vines. The Winery started in 2005, born out of the encouragement of friends who have enjoyed the small lots of hand-crafted wine we have been making since 1991.
He's pictured front right, looking a bit concerned. Perhaps he was figuring out how the save the poor fool who climbed a barrel stack to take the shot. He was the best bottle polisher ever, and we will miss him terribly. Here's to you, Mike! When Eliza and I started making wine in 1991, the first vintage was in celebration of our marriage.
In this video, Jim explains our relationship with the Barn Owls "hoo" occupy the eight boxes he has put up throughout the vineyards. When we decided it was time to expand our operations, a neighbor suggested that we look inward, not in introspection, but physically into the hillside. Jim decided to use an old technology in a new way.
A special preview for our wine club members! Join us between 4 and 6 PM to sample the award winning wines and try our delicious Mushroom & Leek Quiche (GF, with cauliflower crust). We're limiting this to only 50 guests, so give Maggie a call at 707-758-3441 or email her to make your reservations. Club members may bring two additional guests.
The greatest gratification for all of us at J. Rickards Winery is sharing our wines with friends. When you become a club member, you also become part of our extended family with all of the privileges that membership offers. Wine club shipments are processed four times a year - February, May, September and December.
Reviews (9)
Nathanael Hauser
Jul 28, 2021
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Kevin Branstad
Dec 07, 2019
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Dude Knows
Oct 30, 2019
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J. Rickards Winery was awesome! Some of the best wine I have drank! The host Ozzy did an amazing job showing us the barrel rooms, walking us through the fields, he was super knowledgable, professional, and friendly! Ozzy made us feel special and important! Ozzy is a world class sommelier FOR SURE and the best one I have ever had on a tour! After going to J. Rickards 1st on our Platypus Wine Tour of 4 vineyards. The following 3 vineyards we had on the tour stunk compared to J. Rickards and Ozzy!
Thomas Henriksson
Oct 22, 2019
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This is an excellent winery. We are members because their wines. They have an old vine zinfandel that is to die for. That and their five sisters blend of cabernet are so good we come back for them time after time. Today we also got a tour of their wine cave that was very informative. The winery is family owned and not part of a large consortium.
Jim Cheney
Jan 28, 2019
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J. Rickards is a great Sonoma County winery. Friendly, smart staff and off the beaten path. If you're tired of stuffy Napa County wineries, Come to J. Rickards in Northern Sonoma County.
I first learned of J. Rickards two years ago when I attended a Wine Road event and wanted to visit wineries I had not been too before. J. Rickards was on the north end of our itinerary. I enjoyed the relaxed environment and handcrafted wines. My favorite wine was the Old Vine Zinfandel which came from the estate grown vines planted in the early 1900's.
today, I'm writing this review after visiting again this
I first learned of J. Rickards two years ago when I attended a Wine Road event and wanted to visit wineries I had not been too before. J. Rickards was on the north end of our itinerary. I enjoyed the relaxed environment and handcrafted wines. My favorite wine was the Old Vine Zinfandel which came from the estate grown vines planted in the early 1900's.
today, I'm writing this review after visiting again this
Cynthia P.
Aug 07, 2018
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Katie Johnson
Jul 06, 2018
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Wonderful wine tasting experience with a down-to-earth history of the operation and a nice tour through their wine cavern (impressive). We like the owner's philosophy with regard to not using insecticides and allowing things to happen naturally. The wine is outstanding! First wine club we have ever joined and we look forward to enjoying this wine and sharing it with friends for years to come.
Sanjay Jain
Jun 06, 2017
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I was intrigued by the perfect 5 scores, and thought that it was because of the free tasting. Makes sense since you pay to get decent wine, atleast in Napa. But not here, the wine paired with cheese (and chocolate) and the people are amazing.
The 2016 GVM is great - I really like dry wines and this one is aromatic with just the right sweetness. The reds were definitely their strong suit. Try the 2014 Zinfandel - both the regular and the reserve are great. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Five Sisters) is complex and delicious. Finish, with the 2016 Muscat Blanc. It is sweet, but not overbearingly
The 2016 GVM is great - I really like dry wines and this one is aromatic with just the right sweetness. The reds were definitely their strong suit. Try the 2014 Zinfandel - both the regular and the reserve are great. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Five Sisters) is complex and delicious. Finish, with the 2016 Muscat Blanc. It is sweet, but not overbearingly
J. Staub
Aug 19, 2015
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Loved the time we spent here. Very rustic feel to the winery tasting room. The variety was plentiful and they have something to offer each palette. The owner greeted us and welcomed us to his home, and informed us that he does NOT use any pesticides or herbicides.The Cabernet was fantastic. I would highly recommend this winery above most others in the region.
