I've visited Napa several times. It's great, but this nearby wine region stole my heart.

In my opinion, Sonoma County is a must-visit California wine region.

Emily Hart

• I've visited Napa Valley, California, several times, but find myself returning to Sonoma County.
• The landscape is diverse, with vineyards, redwood forests, rivers, and beaches.
• In my opinion, the region is more laid-back than Napa, and there's room to be spontaneous.

I've visited California wine country several times over the past couple of years, including many trips to the iconic Napa Valley.