Explore California wineries in Sonoma and Napa for a deliciously memorable experience.

Left to right: Bouchaine Vineyards in Carneros is owned by Delaware’s own Garrett and Tatiana Copeland.   |  photo courtesy of BOUCHAINE vineyards; The Napa Valley Wine Train stops at three wineries along a 36-mile route. photo courtesy of the Napa valley wine trail; photo courtesy of the Napa Valley wine train

Newlyweds toasting a life together will find beautiful landscapes—and glorious vintages—in California wine country.

Both the Sonoma and Napa valleys are an easy trek from San Francisco and are drenched in food and drink, as well as outdoor activities to burn those calories. Think biking, kayaking and hiking.

Despite their proximity, each valley has its own distinct personality.

Napa, often referred to as Disneyland for adults, has more glitz. Imagine traffic jams of chauffeur-driven limousines bearing wine tasters through tiny, picturesque villages.

Sonoma is more laid-back. Star-gazing and harvesting grapes are traditional activities.

Like many destinations, California wine country is most crowded in summer, least crowded in winter and somewhere in the middle during spring and fall.

There are more than 400 wineries in Napa and more than 200 in Sonoma, so you might think there is no shortage of opportunities to taste. But the majority are privately held and open only by appointment. So do call ahead as you are creating your itinerary.