Elevate your wine country experience with a perfectly planned picnic! This guide provides essential packing tips, delicious Sonoma Valley food suggestions, and information on how our club members can access our exclusive “Deck.” By carefully selecting your menu, packing the essentials, and choosing the perfect location, you can create a memorable occasion that complements your wine country adventure.

Packing Tips: Picnic Essentials

A successful wine country picnic hinges on being prepared. Here’s your essential checklist:

  • The Right Vessel: Invest in a sturdy picnic basket or a cooler bag with compartments. We love Mark and Graham because they offer stylish and functional picnic essentials, blending timeless design with modern practicality.
  • Chill Factor: Keep your whites, rosés, and bubbles at their crisp best. Products like Vinglace are invaluable for maintaining the perfect temperature, ensuring every sip is as refreshing as intended. Don’t forget ice packs for any perishables! 
  • Glassware & Utensils: Real wine glasses elevate the experience, but if you’re worried about breakage, consider durable, reusable acrylic or Tritan glasses. Pack quality cutlery and cloth napkins for a touch of elegance.
  • Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for cheese, charcuterie, and fresh bread.
  • Blanket or Tablecloth: Create your own cozy oasis with a comfortable blanket or a stylish tablecloth.

Water: Stay hydrated! Wine tasting and sunshine call for plenty of water.

Pack It In, Pack It Out: Leave No Trace

Wine country is a treasure, and it’s our responsibility to protect its beauty. “Pack it in, pack it out” is the golden rule. This means taking all your trash with you, leaving no food scraps behind, and respecting the environment. Consider using reusable containers and minimizing packaging to reduce your footprint. Biodegradable plates, cutlery, and napkins are also excellent eco-conscious choices.

Sonoma Valley Delights: Local Provisions

Elevate your picnic with the incredible flavors of Sonoma Valley. Here are a couple of local gems to consider for stocking your basket:

  • Pascaline Fine Catering: For gourmet sandwiches, salads, and delectable pastries, look no further than Pascaline Fine Catering. Their offerings are perfect for a sophisticated picnic spread. 
  • The Sonoma Cheese Factory: Indulge in a selection of artisan cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet accompaniments from The Sonoma Cheese Factory. Their products are a Sonoma Valley staple and a picnic must-have.  


A Crucial Reminder: Before you pack your perfect picnic, remember that winery policies on outside food vary significantly. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, always contact the wineries you plan to visit ahead of time to confirm their specific rules regarding bringing your own food.

Club Member Perk: Book the Deck

Coursey Graves Wine Club Members enjoy exclusive access to the Member Vista Deck – a private retreat with stunning views, perfect for picnics or sharing a charcuterie board with friends. Simply “book the deck” and we’ll handle the rest: escorting you to your space, assisting with wine selections, and providing glassware. Contact Lexi at [email protected] to inquire.

A wine country picnic is a chance to slow down, savor the moment, and connect with nature and good company. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. So, grab your picnic basket, gather your friends, and have fun creating lasting memories in Sonoma Valley this summer!