Absentee Winery opened in Fort Bragg in 1988. Robbie is the winemaker. Pinot Gris from Handley Vineyards in Mendocino County, Semillon from the Luchsinger Family, and Viognier from Rivino Vineyard in Ukiah Valley anchor the white program alongside Pinot Blanc. The reds span Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zinfandel. It's My Fault is a blended white of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Semillon, and Viognier. Tasting runs $15 per person for five wines, no reservation required. Outdoor seating and a picnic area are available. Pets are not permitted in the main bar, seating area, or bluffs.
Yes — Absentee Winery has a tasting room open to visitors. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking ahead is safest on busy weekends.
Absentee Winery focuses on Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Semillon, Viognier, Pinot Noir, and more. Signature bottles include It's My Fault, Pinot Gris, Semillon, Viognier, Signature Red Blends. When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
Absentee Winery's tasting fee: $15 per person for 5 wines. Fees change with the season and the experience booked, so confirm the current price when you reserve.
Absentee Winery doesn't serve food on-site. Plan to eat before you arrive or head out after. Tasting on an empty stomach limits how many wines you can assess accurately.
Yes, Absentee Winery has a picnic area. Call ahead to confirm any corkage fee or outside-food policy. Some estates allow you to bring provisions; others have restrictions. Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
Absentee Winery doesn't allow dogs on the property. Service animals are a separate case and are generally accommodated. Plan a stop where your dog can wait comfortably, or pick a dog-friendly estate for that leg of the day.
Absentee Winery is set up for an adults-only tasting. Book a sitter or choose a family-friendly estate if the whole group is coming.
Absentee Winery is in Fort Bragg, California. Phone: +1 707-972-0344. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
Absentee Winery was established in 1988, giving the estate 38 years to develop its wine program and farming practices.
The winemaking at Absentee Winery is led by Robbie. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
Absentee Winery offers: Wine Tasting, Picnic, Whale Watching and Private Events. Seated or guided experiences typically include more context about the wines and the estate's approach. Worth booking if you want depth over breadth.
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday: Closed | Friday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Yes, Absentee Winery has outdoor seating. Availability is weather-dependent. Call ahead to confirm, particularly outside summer months.
Location
31720 Hwy 20 Fort Bragg, California, United States of America
