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Open 10:00-4:30
Appt required? No
Last barlinwine.com visit: 2011
Directions
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Tasting:
I hadn't heard of Hartford Family Winery before my most recent trip to Sonoma County, but the posh winery facility nestled in the hills of Green Valley was a surprisingly good find for us, at least from a wine standpoint. After arriving at the winery, visitors drive across a single-lane bridge to the winery facility, a massive grey-roofed white structure. I was expecting something cozy with a modest tasting room -- a small family winery -- but instead we found ourselves at a posh facility in the same class as a place like Gary Farrell.
The atmosphere left a bit to be desired at first.
The woman pouring for us was downright snooty and only warmed up once she realized we'd be buying some wine, but the wine certainly saved our experience. Hartford Family makes three varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. There were at least 2-3 wines per varietal to taste, and most were single vineyard wines. I don't think I had a disappointing wine out of all of them, and most were very good. Hartford's wines aren't cheap, but in many cases I felt that the price was justified. The Far Coast Pinot Noir was one of the best wines I had, not just at Hartford but throughout a week-long trip to wine country.
After a second trip back to Hartford, I still enjoy the winery, but it's shine is fading for me. The tasting room is too small to accommodate the number of people they seem to attract, and while the wine is good, I'm still smarting after being charged $33 to ship three bottles to Chicago. There's a missing personal feel from a trip to Hartford -- if ever a winery could benefit from a winery dog or holding more tastings outside on its beautiful grounds, it's this one! Instead, it sadly remains cramped, stuffy, and a bit overpriced.
The atmosphere left a bit to be desired at first.
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Recommended wine: As mentioned, the Far Coast Pinot Noir was outstanding. I enjoyed the Fanucchi-Wood Road Zinfandel, if for no other reason than its name. The Highlands Zinfandel is also very good.
Ratings (out of 5):
 WINE | 4.75 |  TASTING ROOM | 4.25 |
 ATMOSPHERE | 3.75 |  VALUE | 3.50 |
 OVERALL | 4.06 | ||
