Come for the wine, stay for the oysters

BR Cohn Winery is idyllic. Located just minutes from Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, BR Cohn is as known for their French olive grove and olive oil as they are for their wine. Plentiful with roses, storybook cottages, wine barrel tables, and sweeping views of California vines, BR Cohn is the place to be for a perfect Sunday. I was positively enchanted by BR Cohn even in December when the roses and vines are just stems. I can only imagine how stunning the property is when everything is blooming!

BR Cohn has plenty of spaces to hang out, including the world’s most charming patio with black and white striped umbrellas, stools, and wine barrel high tops. Oyster Mike sets up nearby so you’re in a prime location. Can you believe how stunning this property is in December? Rogue olives squish under your shoes as you crunch along the pebble path as birds chirp in the trees. The vines may be twigs but the olive trees are lush as they sway in the breeze.

Founded in 1984 by Bruce Cohn, former manager of the Doobie Brothers, BR Cohn is a haven for world class musicians including The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Journey. It’s easy to see why! What rock star wouldn’t want to hang out at such a place? BR Cohn’s music scene has gotten so popular that the winery recently renovated their outdoor space to include a large covered pavilion, perfect for wedding receptions (rain or shine!) and music festivals. Check out their upcoming events here and plan accordingly.

Oyster Mike, the founder Hog Island Oyster Co, of  frequents the vineyard on Sunday with the Pacific oysters he raises himself. You can get them raw or grilled with BBQ sauce. We slurped down eight (despite not being even slightly hungry after an enormous brunch at Sante) while the birds chirped and the breeze rolled through the olive trees. The hightop wine barrel tables and friendly black and white striped umbrellas would be right at home in my own backyard!

The Taste of BR Cohn fine and food pairing was so fun after a stroll around the vineyard. Seasonal dishes prepared using BR Cohn’s oils and vinegars are paired with BR Cohn’s white and black label wines. I couldn’t resist shipping a bottle of BR Cohn’s incredible 2015 Zinfandel home! Order it for yourself here. (Fun fact: the black label means you can only get it directly from BR Cohn!) I also got some great ideas for new appetizers to make at home! I especially loved the fig cracker with marscapone, balsamic, and a fresh raspberry.

BR Cohn Winery is located at 15000 Sonoma Highway, Glen Allen, CA. The tasting room is open daily 10 am – 5 pm. Ask for Reed. He’s great! For those who want to sample all that BR Cohn has to offer without hopping on a plane, look into their wine club here. Unlike many wine clubs, the shipments are completely customizable. You can even sign up for their olive oil club to receive three new bottles every quarter! Now wouldn’t that make a wonderful Christmas gift?

If you visit BR Cohn, be sure to let them know The Rose Table sent you!