Wine Country Balloons
In 1979 three commercial airline pilots introduced one of the very first hot air balloons to Sonoma. This original Grape Cluster design named ‘Sonoma Thunder’ became a well known mascot in the Wine Country and was awarded a Registered California Trademark.
In 1984 Scott van der Horst, a veteran pilot from from Michigan was hired to fly their quickly growing number of passengers. Scott initially flew only two passengers at a time, and then adding larger balloons managed the fledgling company to become the most enduring and successful balloon operations in the region.
We Make Your Journey
Easy & Memorable
Safest Luxury Aircrafts
Our state-of-the-art luxury balloons are the safest in the industry.
Step Right In
Our easy-access doors allow you to walk right into the basket.
Exclusive Launch Sites
Our exclusive launch sites provide an intimate, breathtaking takeoff.
Comfortable Shuttles
Relax in our spacious, high-end shuttles before and after your flight.
Best Price Guarantee
Book ahead for the best hot air balloon prices in Sonoma.
Most Experienced Pilots
Our pilots ensure a smooth journey with 50+ years of experience.
Our current fleet of 7 beautiful balloons can accommodate groups of 2-3, 4-6, 8-10, 10-12 and 16-20 passengers each.
The 10th anniversary reincarnation of the original ‘Sonoma Thunder’ balloon was renamed ‘Cluster’s Last Stand’ and still participates in ballooning events around the country.
Global Territories
Flight Hours
Years Flying
Happy Customers
Meet The Team
Scott is the chief pilot in charge of operations for Wine Country Balloons and has been flying balloons since 1970 throughout Europe and North and Central America. In addition to teaching numerous professional local balloon pilots to fly, he has performed 85% of the flights for this company since 1984, accumulating more than 8000 hours flying hot air balloons and and personally hosted more than 50,000 passengers. In addition to ballooning Scott produces, directs and performs on live stage and television.
Formally educated in aeronautical sciences at San Jose State University, Michael already had a commercial license in fixed wing aviation when he decided to become a balloon pilot. When he’s not flying he’s a full time Dad for 4 teenagers. He also works within the medical industry maintaining monitoring equipment for hospitals.
Customer Reviews
