Stags Leap Winery is absolutely breathtaking.

When we called for an appointment, we decided to go with an informal porch tasting.  We took a few minutes to look around the grounds and then headed to our tasting.  It was casual with about six other people in our group.   With each pour, we were given a brief explanation and background.  We sat on the porch and visited with others in the group and went up on our own to get the next pour.  It was on our time, and we were in no rush.  We tasted five wines, working from white, to rose and finishing with a cabernet.  This was a different experience because we listened to others ask questions and discuss the wine.  During these types of tastings you will often meet others who are excited to talk about their preferences and history with wine.  This is an aspect that I love taking in with a visit.  Always remember to take your time with the tasting, not only with your wine, but with those in your group and enjoy the scenery.  After the wine tasting our guide gave us background on the winery.   Stags Leap has a great history, so we decided to walk through the main house by ourselveshouse taking it all in.   This was a completely different experience than our first stop at Saintsbury.  We were a little more on our own at Stags.  I did enjoy visiting with the others in our group and hearing their experiences, but we felt that we learned a little more at Saintsbury.  This is why you should try different types of tours and tastings.  The variety keeps it enjoyable and you can find the type of tour you prefer.   

Next stop.... Dinner...with a little detour.

I visited California Wine Country a few weeks ago and have never learned so much in a few days.  Yes, I produce a wine show, but I walked into this radio show a wine novice. 

 I went to California last year and was introduced to an entirely new world, one where I was slightly uncomfortable and visited vineyards that were recommended.  This year was a different story.  I knew that I was going to be traveling to California in June, so I began looking in late April/early May at different vineyards that I was interested in visiting.  You must first decide is if you want to visit Napa or Sonoma.  I was interested in both so I planned for Napa one day and Sonoma the other.  I looked at a map and wrote down which vineyards I really wanted to visit.  I picked my top five in both Napa and Sonoma and then began my research.  On each vineyard’s website, you are able to find out if they give a tour, tasting or both.   I called each of the vineyards and asked for an appointment.  The people at the vineyards have always been very kind and helpful.  They will let you know how long to plan for your visit and will usually e-mail directions and any other information that you may need. 

I planned two tours each day.  This allows you to enjoy your experience at each vineyard and not be rushed at each stop.  It also gives you time to stop at any winery you may pass along the way … and stop at their tasting room for a quick taste (no appointments needed for tasting rooms).  There are several types of experiences you can have at each place.  All of my visits were unique and I will share those with you over the next few weeks.

My first stop was at Saintsbury Vineyards.  I have to say, this was one of my absolute favorites.  It was very personal and took place out on the lawn under beautiful trees for shade.  Libby was our guide and spent a lot of time with us.  We started off with the Rose, then went to the Chardonnays and wrapped up with the Pinot Noirs.  Libby took her time with us and made us feel comfortable to ask any questions that came to mind.  I will say, when I got on the plane to fly to California, I was strictly a white wine drinker.  But I made a promise to myself that I would try some reds.  I shared this with Libby and she was more than happy to walk me through the red wine experience.  I am now a huge fan of Saintsbury Pinot Noir and bought a few bottles to take with me.  With each wine, she also brought along a story of how it was made, where the grapes came from, how long it took to make and why it was chosen for Saintsbury.  I was fascinated and truly began to understand the winemaking process. 

As our time wrapped up at Saintsbury, we asked Libby for some suggestions for lunch.  She gave us a variation of places to choose from and we found a great place right down the road, Boon Fly Café.  What a great menu with a variety of prices and wonderful ambiance.  Always listen to the locals … they do know what they are talking about!

Time was working in our favor, so right after we ate we headed to Stags Leap Winery. 

More to come…