Winter Winelands, Sonoma

As part of my wine education, a few years ago, I spent 2 1/2 years visiting wineries, year-round, four days a week.  I loved talking to wine makers, owners and staff during the winter season.  During that time, and the 5 years before that, when I wasn’t studying, I was home (practicing pairing) so I rarely went to public wine events.

This year, Winter Winelands in Northern Sonoma County caught my attention. It’s one of my favorite wine regions, and although 6,000 people attend annually, the event is spread out over 30 miles including Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Healdsburg, Dry Creek Valley and even some tasting rooms in Santa Rosa. The possible combinations of itineraries is almost endless.

I’ve decided to visit some old favorites in Dry Creek Valley. I’ll miss a few folks over in the Russian River (like John Tyler) but I’m sure I’ll be inspired to come back another weekend to say hello.  My friend Herlinda and I will be in my little roadster starting at Bella Wine Vineyards & Wine Caves. It’s beautiful inside the caves with tasting stations throughout, the perfect escape when it’s chilly outside and the vineyards are bare and boring.  Warmed up, we’ll be ready to hit the red carpet at Dry Creek Vineyard where there are always good deals and a variety of wines to taste. (I’ll be looking for a new vintage of their dessert wine Soleil.)

Then off to a rare public opening of a secret winery that is usually appointment only. Note: Not on the Winelands list but tastings are complimentary for Wine Road participants. Only open Saturday, not Sunday.  From there, a drive up to Michel Schlumberger to see friends, it’s always a great place for a party (inside scoop that they will have some fabulous deals, the more you buy, the more you save).  Might end our day here but I’d love to stop by Merriam Vineyards to taste through their outstanding wines. Merriam’s also serving braised pork and grits. Yum!

Make your itinerary at Winter Wineland, The Wine Road.

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White Oak Winery

The pretty Alexander Valley tucked into Sonoma County’s northern corner is quite different from its famous neighbors, Dry Creek Valley (filled with Zinfandel pursuers) and Russian River Valley (teaming with Pinot Noir collectors). There is a hidden, quiet, unassuming quality to the area.  Perhaps this is because the main road is dotted with occasional signs and driveways and most of the wineries are hidden from view.  It’s also a monoculture grape-growing region, so a big part of the area’s appeal is being surrounded by rows and rows of vineyards.

It”s easy and pleasant to get around this unhurried and uncrowded area, yet it’s also an ideal place to enjoy open-air transportation.  Unless you have your own convertible, your choices are a horse-drawn Wine Carriage or a customized Land-Rover called the Vine Rover.

The Wine Carriage takes you through the vineyards and includes a barrel tasting & cave tour at Alexander Valley Vineyards, guided tours, premium tastings and a gourmet picnic and tasting at White Oak Vineyards & Winery, Hannah Winery, or Soda Rock Winery.

Vine Rover Tours offers customized tours, VIP tastings, friendly and knowledgeable guides.  And because I’m a guide with Vine Rover Tours, I’ll introduce you to some of my favorite wineries.

To book Vine Rover Tours, call Jay (707) 838-1405.  For the Wine Carriage call Bret at (707) 849-8989. Both are available year-round as weather permits.

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After years of concentrating on California wines, I’m wholeheartedly drinking and learning about wines from emerging markets.  My wine refrigerator is now stocked with Chilean Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Austrian Grüner Veltliner, Greek Assyrtiko, South African Pinotage and Argentine Malbec.

The style and flavor of these international wines are fascinating.  Here’s some tips and recommendations for your own international exploration pleasure:

• I’ve found that food really brings out the light style of the Austrian and Greek white wines. Look for the Assyrtiko grape from Santorini and Grüner Veltliner from Austria.  There are many enjoyable wines for under $20.
• Don’t let unfamiliar grapes fool you into thinking they are going to taste unfamiliar.  You’ll probably associate a foreign grape with something you already love. For instance, the Charming 2007 Grüner Veltliner reminds me of a rockin’ Sauvignon Blanc.
• South Africa has fascinated me as I’ve watched so much dramatic change in the last 20 years. The signature grape is Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault.  Good Pinotage has the earthiness that I love in a good Pinot Noir. I highly recommend Silkbush’s Lion’s Drift 2009 Pinotage that will be available in Summer 2011. I received a pre-release sample and it rocked my world. (Review to come soon.)
• I suspect consumers have no idea how fantastic Pinot Noir from Chile’s Leyda Valley can be. My favorite so far is Leyda Las Brisas 2009 Single Vineyard Pinot Noir.  Stylistically it reminds me of Oregon Pinots, ripe black cherries, dark with a honey texture. (Look for my post soon about a perfect pairing.)
• It’s pretty much an open secret that I’m in love with Argentina. There are so many great values and excellent wines, enjoy Malbec but also look for red blends, Torrontes, Bonarda (a very special post coming soon about aged Bonarda), sparkling Malbec and Chardonnay. In other words, explore the world of Argentine wines. (Links go to some of my favorites.)

In case you are wondering, I’m not really leaving California in the physical sense, but if you stop by my house, we can transport ourselves to almost anywhere in the world with some fine wine and matching food.

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Loxton Winery

If you’re looking for a California resort in the town of Sonoma, MacArthur Place is the only game in town. It has everything I want in a resort—-a pool, spa, boutique shopping (next to the Spa), complimentary wine & cheese pairings in the Library, a martini bar, on-site breakfast (in bed too), a variety of room choices (all fabulously decorated) and flower gardens with sculptures (e.g., eye candy).  It’s just a few blocks from the Sonoma Plaza on a residential, tree-lined street and very convenient for wine tasting in that area.

If you want privacy & a kitchen, I recommend renting a home.  I have a great recommendation in the Kenwood/Glen Ellen, a beautiful area with lovely wineries.

(Picture is of Loxton Cellars.)

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If you are related to the wine industry (wine, lodging, restaurants, etc.), adult beverages or related PR company, and you’d like to share your product with me, you can reach me at 415.382.0505 or send me an email.

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Courtesy of Hotelhealdsburg.com

Initially, I wasn’t drawn to this hotel because it seemed a bit slick for this small town village square, but once inside, my weakness for soft robes, tranquil surroundings and luxurious amenities won me over.  I was surprised by the light and architectural detail–anyone who appreciates stylish design will want to see inside this hotel.

I find that too many hotels are nondescript or overly designed.  The feeling I get at HH is a sensual collage of design, real light and a clean and fresh atmosphere. I liked discovering unexpected meditative seating areas. I think this is the first hotel that I’ve been in that has hardwood floors everywhere.  I would stay here in a heartbeat.  I’m also looking forward to getting a pedicure at their spa. Check online for specials and give them a call.

PS: After wine tasting in the Dry Creek or Russian River area, return by 5:00 p.m. on a Thursday or Friday to take advantage of their complimentary wine tasting.

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Courtesy of NV Train

Trains remind me of old Western movies. Women traveling in bodiced gowns with flourishy feather hats anticipating romance, adventure and sometimes danger (bandanna-masked robbers).  The Napa Valley Wine Train (turning 20 this year) sits on tracks with a wonderful history.

Today’s Wine Train Experience is focused on food, wine and hospitality.  There are a lot of choices (lunch, dinners, winery tour stops, murder mysteries, etc.)  It’s a wonderful experience for a special occasion, an opportunity to let someone else do the driving (save gas), and be pampered with VIP winery tours.

Added bonus, some of the best gift shops in the valley are at the station. (Tip: Shop before you go and pick up the items upon return.  You’ll be slightly worn out after all the food and wine tasting.)

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Ssshhhh…here’s a local’s secret. Sausalito (Marin County, CA) is a popular tourist destination and a wonderful place to stay or visit when in Northern California wine country. One of my favorite hangouts is the Cat ‘n Fiddle (Johnson & Bridgeway). It’s warm, cozy and overlooks the San Francisco Bay. Because it is not on the main drag of this small village, only tourists in the know show up…mostly, the locals are there. Hubby and I like popping in for an Irish coffee on a late afternoon before the dinner rush. We don’t go for the food, but the chowder is nice on a cold day.

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I am a big fan of the Peanuts comic strip as well as the old T.V. holiday specials. If you are visiting CA Wine Country, I encourage you to visit the Charles M. Schultz Museum in Santa Rosa (Sonoma County, CA). My hubby and I had a great photo-shoot there. Both children and adults will love it. The building is gorgeous and houses giant displays of his comic strips, sculptures, and an outdoor garden (with Charlie Brown’s kite stuck in a tree). There is also a large gift shop and art gallery, Snoopy’s Ice Arena and the Warm Puppy Cafe. If you are taking pictures, it is allowed everywhere except in the main museum gallery.

If you tire of wine tasting, spend a few hours enjoying this fun and unique place.

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