A New Favorite Close to Home: Scribner Bend Vineyards

Since moving to Sacramento, Don and I have spent a lot of time exploring—finding those go-to spots for wine, food, and weekends that feel a little more special.

One place that quickly made its way onto that list is Scribner Bend Vineyards.

We were first introduced to it while house hunting, thanks to our realtor Kim—whose family just so happens to own it. It’s one of those connections that makes a place feel even more personal from the start.

What makes Scribner Bend stand out isn’t just the setting (which is beautiful, tucked along the Sacramento River Delta), but the history behind it. The land dates all the way back to 1893, when George Washington Scribner settled there and began farming pears along what was then known as Silver Bend—a busy shipping point along the river.

Over the years, that original farm stayed in the family, passed down through generations. In the early 1990s, the next chapter began when the family transitioned from farming pears to planting wine grapes—eventually opening the vineyard to the public in 2002.

Today, it still feels very much like a family-run place. There’s something about that kind of history—over a century of working the same land—that you can feel when you’re there. It’s not just a winery, it’s a place that’s grown over time, evolving while still holding onto where it started.

Wine Tasting

I really love how they do their tastings. Everyone picks four wines to taste. You get a tasting menu and take your wine outside to enjoy on the patio. They do have indoor seating if you prefer that. The setting is lovely and so relaxing. You can easily spend the whole afternoon here. So of course you'll want something to eat! They have a great partnership with Paesano's on the weekend. You can enjoy hot tasty treats right from the pizza oven Friday through Sunday. 

Lunch at the Winery

When we visit, it’s usually a slow afternoon. A glass of wine and something to eat from Paesano's is just what we're looking for. Their wood-fired pizza, salads, and appetizers like polenta fries and fried ravioli make for a delicious and really fun afternoon. It’s close enough to feel easy, but far enough away to feel like you’ve stepped out of your routine for a bit.

That’s really what we’ve been looking for as we explore Sacramento—places that don’t feel overdone or overly polished, but still deliver a great experience. Scribner Bend Vineyards is exactly that. We're looking forward to attending member events and bringing friends and family here, too.

It’s become one of our go-to spots. And one we know we’ll keep coming back to.