8th Annual Garagiste Wine Festival: Northern Exposure

The 8th Annual Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure is returning to Sonoma on Saturday, May 2, 2026 to give you rare access to the region's best small, hard-to-find winemakers.

Why spend your hard-earned dollars on mass-produced labels when you can unearth the true essence of winemaking at Garagiste? Here, every bottle tells a story of passion, not profit. You're not buying wine; you're investing in a moment, a story, a piece of art that was crafted in tiny batches, by the hands of the winemakers who will be pouring them for you.

At this exclusive event, you will discover and taste amazing, cutting edge wines from over 30 high-quality, micro-production, commercial wineries from Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Amador County, and more -- all of who produce under 1500 cases a year!

Over 85% of the Garagiste wineries participating in this event do not have regular tasting hours, so this is truly a singular chance to discover and meet the next great winemakers and get the opportunity to taste their amazing micro-production wines.

You'll encounter varieties and blends you've never heard of, made in ways that defy the conventional. Every visit to Garagiste is like opening a treasure chest. With each sip, you're not just tasting wine; you're uncovering the soul of the winemaker, the terroir, the innovation. This isn't about finding the best wine; it's about discovering what speaks to you -- your personal map of flavors, stories, and characters.

You won't be able to duplicate this tasting experience at any other wine event.

Meet the winemakers, taste their passion!

• Limited ticket sales so no waiting 15-20 minutes for a taste! Spend less time standing in line and more time exploring these amazing wines.
• Indoors with A/C so you are comfortable and the wines aren't warm. Plus you don't get sun-burned.
• A Silent Auction filled with the good stuff - great wine! Want to take some vino home? This is a great way to find amazing bottles.

FESTIVAL DETAILS

All Festival Events will take place at

THE SONOMA VETERANS’ MEMORIAL HALL

126 1st Street W, Sonoma, CA 95476

VIP RARE & RESERVE HOUR: 1:00-2:00pm -- Come early and get to taste the best of their best, as our wineries treat our VIP guests with library, club only or reserve wines, only being poured during this special time period. The festival’s Grand Tasting follows from 2-5pm with an additional 100+ wines featuring over 20 different varietals. Complimentary bottled water, cheese & charcuterie will also be provided. These tickets are limited to ensure VIP guests a more personal tasting experience.

GRAND TASTING: 2:00-5:00pm -- The festival’s Grand Tasting showcases over 30 winemakers pouring 100+ wines and 20+ varietals. During this time complimentary cheese & charcuterie will be provided. Artisan vendors will also be on hand with samples of their handmade products.

PARTICIPATING WINERIES INCLUDE:

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Yes. You must be 21-years-old to attend. IDs will be checked at the door. No babies or small children will be allowed into the building per our licensing with the ABC. No pets are allowed either, with the exception of licensed service animals.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The hall has plenty of free parking. It is also within walking distance of downtown Sonoma.

What can I bring into the event?

The event is indoors and will happen rain or shine. No outside beverages will be allowed into the building. Drinking water will be provided for all guests.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please contact us at [email protected].

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Host or Publisher Garagiste Events, Inc.