Family-owned winery invites guests to relax, sip and enjoy wine country with no reservation required
May 20, 2026 (Healdsburg, CA) — Dry Creek Vineyard is welcoming guests back for the summer season with the opening of Claudine’s Wine Garden, a casual outdoor experience designed for spontaneous afternoons in the heart of Dry Creek Valley.
Open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. beginning Memorial Day weekend through September, the wine garden offers wines by the glass or bottle, self-guided flights and a laid-back atmosphere set within the winery’s scenic insectary garden overlooking the famed Four Clones Vineyard. No reservation is required.
At the center of the experience is Claudine, the winery’s vintage 1975 Citroën van transformed into a charming mobile wine bar. With her French roots and unmistakable personality, Claudine brings a playful touch to the relaxed summer gathering space.
“We’ve always believed wine country should feel welcoming and approachable,” said Kim Stare Wallace, president and second-generation owner of Dry Creek Vineyard. “Claudine’s Wine Garden is about creating an easygoing place where guests can slow down, enjoy a glass of wine and take in the beauty of Dry Creek Valley, whether they planned ahead or simply decided to stop by.”
Born in France and now a fixture at the family-owned winery, Claudine has become a beloved part of the Dry Creek Vineyard experience, appearing at concerts, celebrations and winery events throughout the year. While the Citroën provides a fun focal point, the wine garden itself reflects the winery’s longstanding commitment to sustainability, hospitality and creating memorable experiences for guests.
Guests visiting the wine garden can enjoy a curated selection of Dry Creek Vineyard wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel and Bordeaux-style blends, while relaxing among the gardens and vineyards that surround the historic winery property.
The opening of Claudine’s Wine Garden also launches a full season of events at the winery,including:
2026 Summer Concert Series
- 16th Annual Summer of Zin featuring The Sun Kings – Saturday, June 13
- Motown Getdown featuring The Lucky Devils – Saturday, July 11
- Country Crush featuring North Forty – Saturday, August 22
Additional 2026 Winery Events
Beyond the Summer Concert Series, Dry Creek Vineyard will host a variety of seasonal experiences throughout the year, celebrating wine, food, music and community.
- July 4 – Russian River Ramblers Independence Day performance featuring Dave Stare’s New Orleans-style jazz band
- September 12 – Sailing Adventure (Wine Club Exclusive)
- September 18 – Movie Night featuring Grease, complete with classic cars and a special appearance by actor Kelly Ward (“Putzie”)
- October 9 – Stargazing in the Vineyard taking in the Draconid meteor shower, with guidance by Robert Ferguson Observatory
- November 28 – Holiday Celebration & Marketplace
- December 5 – Holiday Winemaker Dinner (Wine Club Exclusive)
For more information, visit Dry Creek Vineyard. Claudine’s Wine Garden is open Saturdays & Sundays noon – 4 p.m. No reservation required.
About Dry Creek Vineyard
Established in 1972 by David S. Stare, Dry Creek Vineyard is Dry Creek Valley’s flagship winery located in the heart of Sonoma County. Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as President overseeing a successful family winemaking and grape growing business that includes 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. The winery is 100% Certified Sustainable. Dry Creek Vineyard proudly produces a portfolio of critically acclaimed wines that includes Dry Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends as well as a collection of single-vineyard wines. A recipient of the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 10 years running and recently named Healdsburg’s Best Tasting Room, the winery is open daily for tours and tastings. www.drycreekvineyard.com
