Petaluma – Sonoma Portworks

It is the only winery in Sonoma County – and one of only a handful in California – that specializes in port and other after-dinner wines. Sonoma Portworks is a family-owned business that has been in operation for more than 40 years. In addition to port and sherry, the Sonoma Portworks portfolio includes aperitif, grappa, and their Sonomic “almost vinegar.”

Bill and Caryn Reading run their firm on a small scale, with an artisanal approach to all they do. They produce approximately 2,000 cases per year, with 83 of those being designated for the Reserve line, from grapes that have been harvested by hand on land that has been farmed by the same family for six generations. There are 12 feet (the Readings’ and their friends and family’s) involved in gently extracting the juice, which is aged in recycled barrels for up to 6 years. Production involves one hand-powered pallet jack, ten five-gallon buckets, and one foot (the Readings’). Once opened, a bottle of Portworks wine will keep its flavor for up to eight weeks in the refrigerator.

Sonoma Portworks began operations in the Sonoma Valley in 1994 and expanded to Petaluma’s Foundry Wharf in 2003, first establishing a production facility and then adding a tasting room in 2007. Bill and Caryn consider it to be a tremendous asset to be located in the heart of the Bay Area’s most accessible (and delicious) food and beverage destination. They incorporate locally sourced cheese, chocolate, and baked goods into their tastings, and they even collaborate with another Petaluma business, Stillwater Spirits, to produce their award-winning grappa, which has received national attention.

As Bill points out, “Petaluma, CA has so much to offer in the way of consumables.” “We have butchers, bakers, candlestick makers, and a slew of other artisans who work together to create wonderful products that delight both residents and visitors.” In addition to its close proximity to the coast, Wine Country, and San Francisco, and its natural beauty, Petaluma’s people are perhaps its most endearing characteristic. Additionally, Bill and Caryn are active members of the Petaluma Downtown Association, and they host a monthly storytelling event called West Side Stories, which attracts people from all walks of life. According to Bill, “This is a genuine town with a genuine sense of community.” “Everyone contributes to the success of Petaluma by working well together.”

Petaluma Arts Center
Critical Control – Restoration service