5 Bay Area winery picnics and alfresco destinations for summer

California’s wineries are set in some of the loveliest landscapes imaginable, and the summer months bring a chance to enjoy those views with a glass of wine and an alfresco feast. Here are five possibilities in Sonoma, Napa and Livermore that range from bucolic picnic options to music and a nosh.

A quick note: Many wineries offer picnic tables and amenities for guests who are wine tasting. Double check reservation and picnic policies before you go — some welcome outside food, some do not, and no winery allows outside beverages.

Bricoleur Vineyards Picnics: Reserve a picnic in the rose garden, on the lawn or by the pond at this Windsor winery, and you’ll have a cheery red Bricoleur Vineyards wagon to tote your well-packed, deluxe wicker basket and chilled wine. The “essential picnic” package is $75 to $100 per person and includes everything you need for an alfresco repast. Available Friday-Sunday through October. Make reservations and find more details at www.bricoleurvineyards.com.

Murrieta’s Well Sunset Hikes: Hike to the top of this Livermore vineyard to enjoy sunset hues, gorgeous landscapes, small-lot wine and a picnic box for two on select dates through October. Make reservations ($95 per person) and find details at https://murrietaswell.com/visit/.

Tres Sabores Picnics: This St. Helena winery offers picnic perks for wine-tasting guests, including picnic tables ($20-$50 per group) set with linens, palm-leaf plates and silverware, plus cutting boards and knives. Bring your own picnic fare to pair with Tres Sabores wines or purchase a cheese and charcuterie platter ($28) there. Find details at https://tressabores.com

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Wente Vineyards Live Music Series:  This Livermore winery music series, which runs through Aug. 24, includes outdoor performances by local artists — Queen Nation, The Sun Kings, The Front Porch Drifters and more — as well as wine, beer, cocktails and food trucks. Reserve tickets ($50) and find details at wentevineyards.com/events.

Dry Creek Sunset Soirée: Yes, summer’s just beginning now — but mark Aug. 24 on your calendar for a summer sendoff at this Healdsburg winery. This festive dinner and dance party will feature limited production wines, alfresco bites and retro tunes at Dry Creek Vineyard. Reserve tickets ($195) and find more details at tinyurl.com/SunsetSoireeDryCreek.

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