The Sonoma Spiel

Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau
  • 5.0 (22)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

California’s Sonoma Wine Country is known as a feast for the senses - amazing food and wine, beautiful mountains and redwood forests, and charming small towns. Go deeper into the best of Sonoma Wine Country with the Sonoma Spiel, where we talk about what’s happening in and around Sonoma Valley with guests like farmers, chefs, wine makers, artists and interesting guest stars. Plus, we answer YOUR questions about visiting California’s famed wine country during our recurring feature, ”We Get Questions.” Send us a question via email (info@sonomavalley.com) or tag us on one of our pages (From Facebook to IG to TikTok) and we might just answer your question

  1. Cruising Sonoma Valley in a Vintage VW Bus with Ronnie Cotter of West Wine Tours

    2D AGO

    Cruising Sonoma Valley in a Vintage VW Bus with Ronnie Cotter of West Wine Tours

    In this episode of The Sonoma Spiel, Tim talks with Ronnie Cotter of West Wine Tours about one of the most memorable ways to explore Sonoma Valley: riding through wine country in a vintage Volkswagen bus. Ronnie shares what makes West Wine Tours special, from its fleet of colorful classic VW buses to its focus on family-owned wineries, boutique tasting experiences, and a more laid-back, off-the-beaten-path feel. They talk about some of the stops guests might enjoy, including Bartholomew Estate Winery, Winery Sixteen 600, and Anaba, along with the stories, scenery, and local flavor that make the ride part of the experience. The conversation also covers Ronnie’s path into hospitality, growing up in Sonoma, learning to drive stick, working as a farmer before becoming a tour guide, and why he enjoys helping visitors see what Sonoma Valley is really all about. Along the way there are detours into deli sandwiches, music playlists, local golf, pizza memories, and visitor questions about burgers, hostels, mashed potatoes, and hot springs. It’s a warm, funny, local episode about classic vehicles, Sonoma hospitality, and the joy of taking the scenic route. In this episode: Vintage VW bus tours in Sonoma Valley Family-owned wineries and boutique tasting experiences Ronnie’s path from farming to hospitality Bartholomew, Winery Sixteen 600, and Anaba Local stories, visitor questions, and Sonoma favorites Learn more: westwinetours.com About The Sonoma Spiel The Sonoma Spiel is brought to you by the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau, sharing the people, places, and stories that make Sonoma Valley such a special place to visit. 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    50 min

  2. MAR 26

    Fried Chicken, Fine Cocktails, and Songbird Parlour with Kenny DeAlba

    Spring has arrived in Sonoma Valley, and in this episode of The Sonoma Spiel, Tim sits down with Kenneth “Kenny” DeAlba of Songbird Parlour in Glen Ellen for a wide-ranging conversation about food, hospitality, cocktails, community, and what makes Sonoma Valley such a special place to gather. Kenny shares the story behind Songbird Parlour, the cozy and beautifully designed restaurant located in historic Jack London Village, and talks about its evolution into a full restaurant known for seasonal, farm-forward cuisine, warm hospitality, and memorable special nights like Prime Rib Wednesdays and Epic Fried Chicken Sundays. Along the way, Tim and Kenny talk about Kenny’s background in hospitality and bartending, his years working in Sonoma restaurants, his upbringing between Mexico and Sonoma, and his passion for creating experiences that make people feel at home. The conversation also takes a few fun detours into cocktail culture, motorcycle rides through Wine Country, local history, and even Napa’s mysterious “reebobs.” It’s a fun, local, heartfelt episode full of great stories and plenty of Sonoma personality. In this episode: The story behind Songbird Parlour Kenny’s journey in hospitality and bartending Seasonal California fusion cuisine in Glen Ellen Prime Rib Wednesdays and Epic Fried Chicken Sundays Sonoma Valley visitor tips and local recommendations Cocktails, community, and the joy of gathering around good food Learn more: songbirdparlour.com About The Sonoma Spiel The Sonoma Spiel is brought to you by the Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau, sharing the people, places, and stories that make Sonoma Valley such a special place to visit. 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    47 min
  3. Beer Cruises, Sonoma Secrets & UFOs | Chelsea Smith

    MAR 17

    Beer Cruises, Sonoma Secrets & UFOs | Chelsea Smith

    What do beer cruises, Sonoma theater, travel planning, and UFOs have in common? Chelsea Smith. In this episode of The Sonoma Spiel, Tim chats with Chelsea Smith about her journey through travel, beer, performance, and life in Sonoma Valley. From Germany and Lagunitas to the Sonoma visitor center and local stage productions, Chelsea shares insider tips, great stories, and plenty of personality. Find out: Sonoma travel recommendations Winery and lunch ideas Boutique hotel suggestions A look at Chelsea’s hosted beer cruise on the Rhine Behind-the-scenes stories from Sonoma Arts Live And a completely reasonable amount of talk about cryptids and UFOs Visit sonomavalley.com for more Sonoma inspiration. 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers. It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    1h 1m
  4. Show your bib! Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon + Rosé 5K (w/ Gretchen Schoenstein)

    MAR 11

    Show your bib! Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon + Rosé 5K (w/ Gretchen Schoenstein)

    Gretchen Schoenstein returns to The Sonoma Spiel for a third appearance—host of the Finish Line Moments podcast and a key part of the team behind the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon + Rosé 5K. Tim and Gretchen talk about what makes this race weekend feel like a true Sonoma Valley celebration (not a “fly-in, fly-out” event), including the popular Show Your Bib program that encourages runners to explore local businesses, wineries, and neighborhoods throughout the weekend. Gretchen also shares what Finish Line Moments is all about—how running stories (and life stories) connect us—and what she’s covering next in the running world. In “We Get Questions,” they answer quick visitor FAQs about the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, what to do with a 20-year-old in Sonoma, wine tasting costs for groups, where to find hot cross buns, when the Plaza roses bloom, and fun nighttime ideas (speakeasies, shows, stargazing, and more). Race info: runnapatosonoma.com Finish Line Moments: finishlinemoments.com  🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers.   It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    59 min
  5. Wine Country Concierge Explains: The Lodge at Sonoma with Laurie Noble & Evan Purslow

    MAR 4

    Wine Country Concierge Explains: The Lodge at Sonoma with Laurie Noble & Evan Purslow

    Think you know Sonoma Valley? Sonoma podcast host Tim Zahner will be the first to tell you… he’s “expert-adjacent.” 😄 On this episode of The Sonoma Spiel podcast, Tim hangs out with two pros from The Lodge at Sonoma who 'actually' know how the magic happens: Lori Noble — Hospitality Coordinator & Concierge (she can build your perfect Sonoma day in about 90 seconds)   Evan Perslow — Marketing Manager (former Vans shoe-store guy who can basically guess your shoe size on sight) We talk concierge myths (“Do I have to pay extra?” “Is it fancy?” “Can they really get me in?”), how travelers plan trips now (spoiler: a lot of people arrive with zero reservations), and what the Lodge at Sonoma offers—from cottage-style rooms and spa vibes to on-site dining and an easy shuttle to the Plaza. Then we jump into "We Get Questions” with quick, super-local tips on: Best bar seating for solo travelers   Easy 60–90 minute hikes (Sonoma Overlook Trail + more)   Mustard flower baby photos… without trespassing   Sparkling wine picks   Great patios for lunch with a small group   Where to find beer options if not everyone wants wine   More info: The Lodge at Sonoma: thelodgeatsonoma.com Sonoma Valley events: sonomavalley.com    🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers.   It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    1h 1m
  6. Sonoma Valley E-Bike Rentals + Self-Guided Winery Routes | Vine & Vista Tours (Dog-Friendly!)

    FEB 24

    Sonoma Valley E-Bike Rentals + Self-Guided Winery Routes | Vine & Vista Tours (Dog-Friendly!)

    Host Tim Zahner welcomes Jeremy Noland of Vine & Vista Tours, an e-bike rental experience based in Kenwood that’s helping visitors explore Sonoma Valley in a fun, self-guided, eco-friendly way—often with dogs along for the ride (including sidecar setups for larger pups). Jeremy shares how the idea started, what makes their premium e-bikes different, how routes are curated with safety in mind, and the best ways to experience Kenwood and Glen Ellen by bike—wineries, parks, and great local food stops included. In the “We Get Questions” segment, Jeremy helps answer visitor FAQs about self-guided winery biking, Sonoma food gifts that travel well, and buyout options for high-end corporate groups and private events. 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers. It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    50 min
  7. Sonoma’s Tattooist Talks Trends, Travel Tattoos + “Sonoma Questions” | Jessie Marioni

    FEB 18

    Sonoma’s Tattooist Talks Trends, Travel Tattoos + “Sonoma Questions” | Jessie Marioni

    It’s late winter in Sonoma Valley—mustard in bloom, trees blossoming, and citrus everywhere—and Tim Zahner welcomes Jessie Marioni of Rosa Grande Tattoo to The Sonoma Spiel. Jessie shares how she became a tattoo artist, what’s changed in tattoo culture over the years, and why tattooing is as much about meaning, memory, and community as it is about art. They also talk trends, styles, and some of the most common “Sonoma visitor” tattoos. In the “We Get Questions” segment, Jessie helps answer real visitor questions about Swiss connections in Sonoma, a (wild) idea to rebuild Jack London’s Wolf House, planning Sonoma Sips for a large group, and what happened to the famous “LOVE” sculpture near Sonoma City Hall. More info: Rosa Grande Tattoo: rosagrandetattoo.com Events + Sonoma Sips details: sonomavalley.com 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers. It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

    1h 2m
  8. From Sonoma to London and Back Again: The Kearsley Story of Fabrics, Linens and Craft

    FEB 11

    From Sonoma to London and Back Again: The Kearsley Story of Fabrics, Linens and Craft

    Host Tim Zahner (Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau) welcomes Sonoma local Heather Kearsley Wolf of Kersley for a wide-ranging conversation that blends design, entrepreneurship, history, and travel tips. Heather recounts the origin story of Kersley—how she went from construction and interior design to launching luxury linens and textiles produced with expert makers in Italy (and later the UK), navigating retail and trade showrooms, and evolving into custom work and hospitality collections. Along the way, she shares a fascinating look at textile craft and why bedding comfort comes down to fibers, weave, and real-world use—not just thread count. Then Heather joins Tim for the fan-favorite segment “We Get Questions,” answering real visitor questions like: • Best Italian restaurants in Sonoma • What to do if you only have a few hours in town • What the little “smoke puffs” in vineyards are (controlled burns?) • Where to buy Sonoma t-shirts locally Plus: a show-and-tell of Kearsley products (cashmere pillows, linens, and a beautifully made tote sewn right in Sonoma). 🍷 Save up to 25% on Sonoma wine tastings with the Sonoma Tasting Pass! Choose three great wineries in Sonoma Valley: 👉 https://bit.ly/SonomaTastingPass Plan your trip + events: sonomavalley.com Don’t miss Sonoma SIPS (Feb 15–Mar 15): $15 wine tastings at 50+ wineries More info about Kearsley: www.Kearsleyhome.com Youtube: @kearsleyofficial https://heatherkearsleywolf.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kearsleyofficial/ https://www.facebook.com/KearsleyLinens https://www.linkedin.com/company/kearsley-linens Blog: https://kearsleyhome.com/blogs/kearsleys-threads Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at info@sonomavalley.com, text us at 707-996-1090 or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers.

    1h 10m
See All (100)

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

California’s Sonoma Wine Country is known as a feast for the senses - amazing food and wine, beautiful mountains and redwood forests, and charming small towns. Go deeper into the best of Sonoma Wine Country with the Sonoma Spiel, where we talk about what’s happening in and around Sonoma Valley with guests like farmers, chefs, wine makers, artists and interesting guest stars. Plus, we answer YOUR questions about visiting California’s famed wine country during our recurring feature, ”We Get Questions.” Send us a question via email (info@sonomavalley.com) or tag us on one of our pages (From Facebook to IG to TikTok) and we might just answer your question

Information

  • Creator
    Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Sonoma Spiel

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