Pacheco Ranch Winery 235 Alameda del Prado • Novato • CA 94949

Pass through the gate of Pacheco Ranch Winery and be transported by its serenity, history, and romance. Situated on one of the oldest land grants in California, the current property has been owned and farmed by descendants of the original grant recipient since the 1840s. Today it’s creating a growing fan base with its handcrafted cabernet sauvignon and charming wine country weddings.

A gentle sloping drive, lined with mature oaks, heirloom citrus trees, and Italian cypress, leads up to the two-story Italianate ranch house. Built in 1876 by a master shipbuilder, it includes Victorian touches like a columned covered porch, decorative eaves, a pergola draped in wisteria, and a fragrant rose garden. It’s ideal for welcoming guests with a cool drink, and it’s also incredibly photogenic. In fact, great photo ops are everywhere, from group pix on the staircase inside to couple shots against a backdrop of antique outbuildings or in the vineyard itself.

Spread throughout the bucolic grounds are five distinctly beautiful event sites. The first, near the entrance, features two large olive trees that frame the ceremony, while a second boasts an expansive lawn with an old-growth redwood tree as a focal point. Both of these include a wide variety of foliage as well as vineyard views. If you want a more elevated perspective, head a bit higher in the hills where you can overlook the vineyards … or, say “I do” at their newest hillside locale and enjoy the soothing sounds of a natural waterfall. Finally, for something quite different, cross their creek via a wooden bridge to a secluded spot with a fluttery Bay tree and a profusion of greenery.

The winery’s centrally located, spacious outdoor reception area feels quite magical with spotlights tucked in the tall trees. Add a tent if you like, or host up to 200 for cocktails and dinner al fresco. Then dance for hours under the stars since amplified music is allowed until midnight!

What makes this place even more special is how accommodating they are. Want to use your own caterer? That’s fine, or they can recommend some good local ones. Need suggestions for a florist, DJ, or other vendors? No problem! But if you prefer to DIY to save some money, that’s OK, too.

They also allow full-day access, giving you plenty of time for setup and prep. Plus, the owners remain on-site and available during your event to answer questions and help make sure everything goes smoothly. Oh, and one more extra perk: since they’re all about family here, feel free to include your well-behaved pet as part of the wedding.