When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Donkey & Goat Winery
Why Donkey & Goat Winery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Donkey & Goat Winery, located in Berkeley, California, offers an exceptional destination for friends to gather and enjoy natural wines crafted with a passionate commitment to sustainability and authenticity. Owned and operated by the husband-and-wife team Jared and Tracey Brandt, the winery specializes in natural and biodynamic wines, which means their practices extend from vineyard to cellar, embracing organic farming with zero tolerance for chemicals. Visitors can savor Rhône varietals and a unique Chardonnay blend, all made without commercial yeasts, plastic fermentation vats, or unnecessary additives. The winery's environment encourages connection and relaxation, featuring a well-maintained bocce ball court where guests can enjoy a game alongside a glass of their vibrant wines. Their signature California white blend, IF / THEN, delights with appealing notes of golden delicious apple, Asian pear, citrus blossoms, and subtle hints of beeswax and chamomile, balanced by lively acidity. This makes Donkey & Goat not just an excellent spot for wine tasting but a delightful venue to meet up with friends, enjoy engaging activities, and explore thoughtfully-made wines that truly reflect nature's intent.
Here's what people think of Donkey & Goat Winery
As of recent, Donkey & Goat Winery holds a 4.5-star rating based on 111 reviews.
Reviews reflect Donkey & Goat Winery's strong reputation, earning an average rating of 4.5 from 111 reviewers. Many praise the winery for its dedication to natural winemaking, appreciating the authentic flavors and environmental ethos that set the wines apart. Positive comments highlight the quality and uniqueness of their wines, describing them as vibrant, fresh, and expressive of terroir. Visitors also enjoy the relaxing atmosphere enhanced by the bocce ball court, noting it as a fun and social element that complements the tasting experience. On the other hand, a minority of negative reviews mention occasional inconsistency in some wine batches and point out that the natural winemaking approach can result in less predictable flavors, which not all palates prefer. Some guests found the tasting room a bit small or the experience less guided than expected. Overall, the feedback confirms Donkey & Goat as a well-loved winery that offers something different in the crowded California wine scene—a place where the values of sustainable farming and purity of production resonate with most visitors, creating a memorable setting to enjoy wine with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laura B. Crosby
A fantastic spontaneous visit to Berkeley, California led us to this winery. We had gotten together for a funeral, the entire family. The day after we decided get lunch on 4th street. As we were walking down the neighborhood, we encountered Donkey & Goat Winery. Sadly, they were closed. We rang the door bell, just in case. Two lovely employees came out with a lovely dog. We felt very welcomed and had a great time wine tasting. It tasted great. We highly recommend coming here!!
Karla Schlags
We hosted my husband's birthday party at the Winery last Friday night. I can't say enough what an amazing experience we had celebrating a big milestone with family and friends. From the planning stages to day of coordination the staff at D&G were amazing. The winery staff has a family like feel and really prioritize making guests and their events a success. Whether it was welcoming our guests, helping decide on table layouts or managing the flow of the evening they had it all covered. I would HIGHLY recommend hosting here for a special event. We can't wait to come back soon :)
Robert
Don’t waste your money or time here. Such bad wine and overpriced to boot! We had two flights of tastings (6 wines altogether) for $66. One of the six wines was almost drinkable. I couldn't even call the other six wine. (And yes, we have had organic wines before.) We obviously hardly touched the tasting and the staff showed no interest in our poor experience and shared no insights on the product they call wine. The champagne tasting room next door (another establishment) was a nicer atmosphere and the champagne was reasonably tasty. The Donkey & Goat space is a warehouse space with high ceilings and picnic tables. On a warm day I can see it would be nice outside in a paved area, also with picnic tables. If you didn’t have to drink the wine.
jackie
The tasting room offers unique wines that you can purchase, however they are not included in the tastings. Such as the orange wine (however if your server knows you know wine / work industry they may pour it for you!) or the Cab Pfeffer. Overall the tasting room inside was esthetically pleasing, the outside was cute as well but I recommend going on a warmer, less chilly day. The wine tasting options are pricy and limited. Overall, you’re going for the “experience” of tasting in the Hipster Berkeley area and getting a great photo op. However, you could find another great winery with more selections if you wanted. The best wine was the orange so just buy the bottle.
Janaki V
Amazing wine tasting experience. We have two chilled wines - twinkle and cannonball. The Bear was fantastic too. Cat friendly place so bring them.
How to reach Donkey & Goat Winery
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Website: None
Why Donkey & Goat Winery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Donkey & Goat Winery with your friends? Imagine a vibrant urban winery nestled in the heart of Berkeley, California, where natural wines crafted with ecological principles meet an inviting atmosphere tailored for memorable group gatherings. Donkey & Goat Winery, with its 4.5-star rating from over 111 reviews, holds a unique position as one of the pioneers in California’s natural wine movement. Founded by Jared and Tracey Brandt in 2003, this winery emerged from their passion to produce wines that are both authentic and sustainable, using organically and biodynamically farmed grapes sourced from Napa, Mendocino, Sonoma, and the Sierra Nevada regions. The winery’s commitment to natural fermentation and minimal interventions in winemaking creates wines that have depth, character, and a distinctive taste, perfect for sharing with friends who appreciate quality and uniqueness. Moreover, the winery’s vivid story and their role in shaping Berkeley’s Gilman District into a vibrant community of craft wineries provide a rich cultural backdrop to your visit. Gathering at Donkey & Goat offers not only excellent wine but also a chance to experience a very personal, artisanal approach to winemaking in a welcoming urban setting, making it an ideal spot to rally with friends and family.
What activities does Donkey & Goat Winery offer for group meetups? The winery has crafted a multifaceted experience that goes beyond just tasting wine, ensuring that groups can enjoy quality time together. First, the tasting room offers a warm and detailed exploration of their wines, with knowledgeable staff guiding visitors through the story behind each bottle. Their focus on natural wine means you get to try selections with unique profiles—sparkling Ramato Pinot Gris, bright high-acid reds and whites, and cloudy native ferments that often spark lively conversation. In addition, the winery is part of Berkeley’s lively Gilman District Winery Block, cohabiting with other boutique producers, which allows visitors to explore a wider array of urban wines in the area, perfect for extended group outings. Donkey & Goat also often hosts special events—wine dinners, harvest celebrations, and collaborative tastings—that encourage socializing in a more dynamic environment. For groups seeking something more intimate, private tastings and vineyard tours based on availability provide a tailored experience showcasing the winery’s regenerative agriculture origins and natural winemaking philosophy. The blend of education, social ambiance, and artisanal wine production makes Donkey & Goat Winery perfect for groups looking to not only enjoy great wine but also engage with an authentic craft community.
Why is Donkey & Goat Winery perfect for a group meetup? Several factors contribute to its ideal suitability for hosting friends or family. Its urban location in Berkeley makes it easily accessible for local groups or visitors from the broader Bay Area without needing a long trip to rural wine country. The tasting room is spacious yet cozy, balancing the industrial charm of the Gilman District with comfortable, inviting seating that encourages conversation and connection. Donkey & Goat’s winemaking philosophy also fosters a sense of community and discovery—each wine tells a story about the land, vines, and natural processes, which naturally lends itself to shared enjoyment and discussion. Additionally, the winery’s pioneering spirit and commitment to sustainability offer groups a meaningful experience beyond mere consumption; visitors often leave inspired by the ethical and ecological responsibility embedded in every bottle. Whether your gathering is casual or celebratory, the blend of exceptional wine, a story-driven environment, and the lively, collaborative energy of the Gilman District Winery Block creates the perfect backdrop for memorable meetings with friends or family.
What makes the wines at Donkey & Goat special for group tastings? Jared and Tracey Brandt’s dedication to natural wine means each bottle is crafted with minimal additives—often only a small amount of sulfur dioxide—which allows the pure character of the grapes and terroirs to shine through. The winery’s portfolio reflects diverse influences, from traditional Rhône valley techniques learned through their partnership with Eric Texier, to a uniquely Californian expression that embraces high-acid and native ferment profiles. This results in wines that are vibrant, sometimes unpredictable, and full of personality, encouraging lively discussion among friends about flavors, textures, and winemaking techniques. Their commitment to transparency—being one of the first to list ingredients on labels—further adds an educational element to tastings. For groups, this means every sip opens the door to exploring natural winemaking craftsmanship together, deepening appreciation and creating lasting memories linked to authentic artisanal experiences.
How does the Gilman District Winery Block enhance your group visit to Donkey & Goat? Donkey & Goat was the pioneering winery that helped develop the Gilman District into an exciting hub of artisanal wine production in Berkeley. Today, the block houses a cluster of small, innovative wineries including Broc Cellars, Hammerling Wines, and Tessier, all fostering a collaborative and vibrant community environment. For groups, this means the opportunity to extend their wine adventure by exploring multiple tasting rooms within walking distance, each offering distinct styles and stories. This cluster creates a festive, social atmosphere perfect for meetups, as groups can share varied tastings while soaking in the energy of a thriving artisan wine scene. Accessibility, urban charm, and the ability to hop between wineries make the Gilman District Winery Block a unique destination to rally your friends and family around a shared love of natural wine and craft beverages.
What ambiance can you expect when visiting Donkey & Goat Winery? The tasting room and winery space reflect a thoughtful blend of industrial urban aesthetics and warm, inviting touches that make every guest feel at home. The interior features raw materials like exposed brick and steel, softened by rustic wood and natural lighting, creating an environment that perfectly complements the winery’s natural, environmental ethos. This balance of rugged and cozy encourages guests to relax, linger, and enjoy deep conversations over glasses of wine. The staff’s passion and knowledge add another layer of warmth, as they enthusiastically share stories and answer questions, making visitors feel personally connected to the brand and its winemaking journey. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply gathering for an afternoon of tasting, the ambiance at Donkey & Goat Winery cultivates a sense of community and shared experience, ideal for group enjoyment.
What practical considerations make Donkey & Goat Winery an ideal spot for hosting groups? Located at 1340 5th Street in Berkeley, Donkey & Goat offers convenient public transit access and ample parking, easing logistical concerns for group meetups. The tasting room’s layout accommodates groups comfortably with a good balance of seating and standing room, encouraging interaction without feeling cramped. The winery’s team is experienced in managing group visits, often providing private tastings or customized experiences when arranged ahead of time. Additionally, Donkey & Goat’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment means all guests feel comfortable and valued. The winery’s urban location also allows visitors to combine their wine tasting with nearby dining or other activities in Berkeley, turning a simple meetup into a full day or evening outing with friends or family.
Why is Donkey & Goat Winery more than just a place to drink wine? Donkey & Goat’s story is deeply rooted in sustainability, community-building, and pioneering natural winemaking practices in California. Founded out of a vision to craft authentic, ecologically mindful wines, the winery continually advances regenerative agriculture and transparency in the industry. For visitors, this means engaging with more than just flavor—each visit becomes a lesson in environmental stewardship and innovation. The Brandts’ journey from their Rhône Valley experience to establishing a thriving urban winery adds a rich narrative that guests can connect with. This holistic approach makes Donkey & Goat Winery a destination where every gathering nurtures a sense of place, purpose, and shared values alongside memorable wines and good company.
How can hosting a meetup at Donkey & Goat Winery create lasting memories? The combination of exceptional natural wines, a vibrant urban winery setting, and a deeply rooted story of passion and sustainability cultivates an experience that guests will remember long after the tasting ends. The shared discovery of distinct wines made with minimal intervention encourages conversation and exploration, sparking curiosity and bonding among friends. The lively atmosphere of the Gilman District, with its supportive community of small wineries, creates a sense of celebration and connection. Staff-led tours or private tastings provide personalized touchpoints that enhance group cohesion and create special moments. Whether toasting a milestone, catching up with old friends, or simply indulging in a favorite pastime, a meetup at Donkey & Goat Winery offers a rich, authentic, and social experience that stays with you.
What future events or opportunities does Donkey & Goat Winery offer for groups? Donkey & Goat’s active role in the Berkeley wine community often translates into curated events and collaborative gatherings ideal for groups. These may include harvest celebrations, food pairings, and educational sessions focusing on natural winemaking and regenerative practices. By participating, groups gain insider access to the nuances of their winecraft and meet likeminded enthusiasts in an engaging, lively environment. The winery’s continuous involvement in supporting sustainable agriculture and community initiatives also means visitors can align their social gatherings with deeper causes, enriching their experience. Keeping an eye on Donkey & Goat’s event calendar or contacting the winery for private bookings can ensure groups tap into these unique offerings to make their meetups even more memorable.
Visiting Donkey & Goat Winery is not just about tasting wine; it’s about rallying around craftsmanship, community, and conscious production. Its unique story, natural wine portfolio, vibrant urban location, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect venue for groups seeking connection through authentic experiences and exceptional wines.