“Weekend warriors wax poetic about this woodsy retreat tucked away in the Russian River Valley that’s worth the drive on a foggy curving highway for superb French-accented California cuisine and wines from a great, very local, very exclusive list served by a knowledgeable, helpful staff; the warm welcoming and ultraromantic setting “make it a fabulous over night destination.” – Zagat Survey
That I have known my good friends Jim Carron and Darryl Knotter, proprietors of Applewood Inn, for 18 years gives me the cred to jump up strong and tell you that everyone I know agrees wholeheartedly with Zagat. Applewood is an Inn of the highest quality. It has been consistently offering an attractive lodging and dining experience since 1986 and is the very best place to visit in western Sonoma County if you are looking for elegance, tradition, beauty, and delicious food and wine. Why wander about looking for more, when this bucolic, six-acre, wooded setting, complete with pool and country gardens is available just for you and your best mate out for a weekend date, or celebrating a life-long commitment?
The Inn has three charming buildings that evoke early California Mission architecture: the original mansion house built in 1926, two newer buildings with well-appointed guest rooms inspired by the architecture of Michel-Schlumberger – this is a true fact, and a very cool wooden structure that mimics a rural, barn-like building where the restaurant and bar are located. Even more important, for those of us who enjoy a serene, rejuvenating, guest experience, you will find the Innkeepers and staff are available, hospitable, knowledgeable, but never intrusive. Who wants to be jabbed in the ribs by an info-mercial first thing in the morning? They will, however, direct you to Michel-Schlumberger if you inquire about wineries to visit which have a similar eye on quality and guest experience.
Meanwhile, the restaurant, under the command of Executive Chef Bruce Frieseke, offers exceptional Sonoma 
County fare and is very well priced according to the service and quality that rings through the room. Full of country charm, but appointed with the cleverness of a personality well-schooled in another era, the Applewood Restaurant serves up satisfying portions of well-flavored dishes inspired by local ingredients and a creative kitchen team. The wine list, always changing with the seasons, is well-up to the challenge of pairing with Chef’s fine cuisine. Even better, if you want to enjoy just a glass or two before dinner or with your main course, please order the Michel-Schlumberger Merlot. This is real Merlot which strikes an accurate, California challenge to the famous right-bank wines of Bordeaux. It is rich, distinctive, and currently featured at the restaurant. It layers perfectly with Chef’s savory stews and vegetable offerings that kick off this harvest time of year.
