The 2 Best Wine Tours in Wine Country California
California’s Wine Country has long been a magnet for wine enthusiasts seeking great scenery, quality wine, and memorable experiences. From the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley to the lush hills of Sonoma, the region offers more than just tastings — it’s about the stories, the landscapes, and unique ways to explore. Among the most exciting options are riding in a tandem or single sidecar motorcycle, which adds a dash of adventure and fun to your wine day. Imagine cruising through vineyards on a vintage motorcycle, feeling the breeze, and learning about the region’s rich history in a relaxed, personalized way.
In this guide, we’ll cover two standout tours that blend scenic rides with wine tasting. First, there’s the Napa Valley: Private Sidecar Winery Tour, known for its friendly guides and intimate visits to three top wineries. Then, we explore the Sonoma: Private Tandem Sidecar Winery Tour, which offers the same charming experience in a different scenic setting. Both tours deliver a memorable mix of landscape, local culture, and wine, perfect for those seeking something a bit different from traditional tastings. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wine traveler, these adventures promise a lively and immersive experience.
Quick Overview
This guide features two high-rated sidecar tours, each costing $199 per person and lasting about 2.5 hours. The Napa Valley tour focuses on the iconic backroads of Napa, providing insight into its long history alongside visits to three wineries. Meanwhile, the Sonoma tour takes you through the lush countryside, emphasizing local culture and the region’s history, with visits to three wineries as well. Both tours have a 4.9/5 review rating, making them reliable choices for a fun, engaging day.
1. Napa Valley: Private Sidecar Winery Tour
The Napa Valley: Private Sidecar Winery Tour offers a lively way to explore Napa’s famous vineyards from a unique vantage point. At $199, this 2.5-hour experience includes riding a tandem sidecar motorcycle with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll travel along scenic backroads, feeling the wind and taking in views that many car-based tours can’t deliver.
This tour is particularly valued for its personalized approach. You’ll visit three local wineries, where guides share insights into the winemaking process, regional history, and the region’s evolution. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge help bring the experience to life. Guests often comment on how authentic and engaging the commentary is — “You really get a sense of Napa’s history while enjoying the ride,” one reviewer said. The ride itself is safe, exhilarating, and fun, especially for those looking for a bit of adventure alongside their wine.
The tour’s small group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for couples or small groups. The highlight is the thrill of riding through quiet country roads while sipping wine at carefully selected wineries. The experience is ideal for travelers craving something memorable, with the added benefit of learning about Napa’s wine culture in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: For adventure-seekers who love scenic drives paired with wine and history, this tour offers a distinctive, engaging way to enjoy Napa Valley. It combines the thrill of riding a motorcycle with the charm of small-group winery visits, making it a top pick.
2. Sonoma: Private Tandem Sidecar Winery Tour
The Sonoma: Private Tandem Sidecar Winery Tour is an equally compelling option, taking you through the lush, rolling landscapes of Sonoma. Also priced at $199 and lasting 2.5 hours, this tour emphasizes a relaxed but vibrant experience of Sonoma’s wine scene. Riding in the tandem sidecar motorcycle, you’ll get to enjoy the freedom of the backroads, with every turn revealing picturesque vineyards and charming countryside.
This tour is especially appreciated for its culture. Your guide takes you to three local wineries, with a focus on learning about Sonoma’s history and wine production. Guests love how approachable and friendly the guides are, often noting that “the stories behind Sonoma’s wineries make the tastings even richer.” The route highlights the region’s natural beauty — perfect for photography lovers and those seeking a more scenic, less commercial experience.
Participants enjoy not just the wine but the views; the tour is described as providing “a few fun-filled hours of incredible scenery,” perfect for a half-day escape. The ability to visit three wineries in a short time makes this a great choice for those who want to maximize their wine country exploration without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This Sonoma tour offers a spirited, visually stunning way to explore local wineries, ideal for small groups wanting an authentic taste of Sonoma’s rural charm. The friendly guides and scenic backroads make it a memorable choice.
How to Choose
Picking between these two tours comes down to your interests, budget, and preferred scenery. If you want to experience Napa’s iconic vineyards with a dash of adventure and a focus on history, the Napa Valley sidecar tour is ideal. It’s particularly suited for those craving a more energetic ride and small-group intimacy.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic exploration of Sonoma’s lush countryside, with an emphasis on local culture and a less adrenaline-filled ride, the Sonoma sidecar tour fits perfectly. It’s great for travelers who want a laid-back, photo-worthy experience, and is equally friendly for couples and small groups.
Booking early is wise for both, especially during peak seasons like late spring through early fall, when the weather and vineyard scenes are at their best. Check availability ahead of time to find the most convenient start times and ensure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Both of these sidecar tours deliver a one-of-a-kind way to experience California’s renowned Wine Country. The Napa Valley option stands out for its energetic backroad riding and historical insights, making it perfect for adventurous spirits. Meanwhile, the Sonoma tour offers a more relaxed, scenic journey through lush landscapes, ideal for those who want to soak in the region’s natural beauty with fewer thrills but plenty of charm.
If you’re short on time but want a memorable experience that combines scenery, culture, and wine, either tour will serve you well. For lovers of motorcycles or vintage rides, these tours turn wine tasting into a fun adventure — a great way to break from traditional tastings and create lasting memories. Be sure to book early, pack your camera, and enjoy the ride through some of California’s most beautiful wine regions.