Wine Institute: Tips for Touring California Wine Country
EXPLORING CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY -- Plus, added notes on Amador, Lodi, Monterey, Napa, Paso Robles, Santa Cruz and Sonoma wine regions. (Note: While the following were developed by the Wine Institute as Tips for Touring Wine Country during Harvest and during the California Wine Celebration, the guidelines are good for planning a tour at any time of the year.)
Harvest in California's wine regions, typically from mid-August through October, bursts with vibrant golden yellow and crimson colors, mingled with aromas of ripening fruit and crushed grapes. Visitors witness first-hand the dynamic energy of grape growers, winemakers and cellar workers ushering in the year's bounty.
The annual California Crush is a once-a-year opportunity. Driving the country roads in the cool, early morning, visitors can watch the mastery of vineyard hands as they rapidly pick the grapes, carrying them in bins to a waiting truck for transport to the cellar. Or, depending on the region, they might view mechanical harvesting, where large machines travel the rows of vineyards, harvesting the fruit in their mighty jaws.
As these fall scenes of activity take center stage in the industry, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has acknowledged the many contributions that California's winemakers and winegrape growers make to the state with his proclamation of September as California Wine Celebration. (Visit: www.wineinstitute.org/communications/statistics/CAWineProclamation2005.htm to view the proclamation.) Winegrapes are grown in 48 of California's 58 counties, and the state is home to more than 1300 wineries with a wine history dating back to the late 1700s when the first Missions were established here.
Special events abound during harvest time, from winery lunches, tastings, crush events, seminars, food and wine festivals, winery concerts and vintage wine auctions. Local restaurants feature seasonal cuisine; balloon rides offer spectacular aerial views of the vineyards; bocce ball courts invite cheerful recreation; and winery museums and gardens provide artistic diversions.
As the tourist season abates, tasting room staff can spend more time with individual guests, giving an exclusive experience to professionals, collectors, and budding wine enthusiasts alike. It is an ideal time for wine lovers, and anyone interested in learning more about wine, to visit one of California's five major wine-producing areas. By exploring a wide variety of wineries, alternating between large, medium and small facilities, experiencing wineries that make still wine and champagne/sparkling wine, and visiting both longtime favorite and new producers, guests can experience the fascinating process of winemaking and the many winery personalities.
TIPS FOR TOURING CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY:
Even for the experienced wine lover, the most challenging aspect of touring California's wine regions can be deciding where to go because there are so many wonderful locales.
With more than 200 days of sunshine every year and a very dependable growing season, California has the ideal climate for growing grapes, a direct tribute to the state's five major wine regions: Northern California Coast (the area north of San Francisco), Central California Coast (San Francisco to Santa Barbara), Sierra Nevada (the west side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains), Southern California (Ventura to San Diego) and the San Joaquin and Sacramento Valleys (between Redding and Bakersfield). Within these regions are designated American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), the defined appellation or designated geographical area in which the grapes are grown.
The following tips can help make a tour of the California Wine Country a memorable experience:
• Where to Go: First determine what region to visit. While California's wine regions are worthy destinations unto themselves, there are wineries located near or en route to most popular urban areas and natural attractions. Once you've determined the region, decide what appellation(s) to visit within the region if there is more than one.
• Wine Organization Contacts: Get in touch with the local Chamber of Commerce, Visitor's Centers/Tourism Bureaus and Winery Trade Associations to get maps and suggestions on wineries to visit, winery events and accommodations.
• Choosing a Winery: An easy way to select which wineries to visit is to browse web sites and promotional materials of trade associations for specific appellations, i.e., Santa Barbara County, Dry Creek Valley, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, Lodi, and so on. Choosing wineries according to the varietals they make is another way to narrow the plethora of choices.
• Harvest Events: Peruse one of the many online Events Calendars for local listings of harvest events.
• Call Ahead: Some wineries are open for touring and tasting only by appointment so be sure to call ahead. During harvest, visitors can also call ahead to find out when the grapes will arrive so they can watch the crush.
• Don't Overbook: Limit each day's excursion to a maximum of three wineries so as to get the full experience at each facility: take a winery tour(s), talk to the tasting room staff to learn more about the wines, browse the gift shops, allow time to eat lunch between winery visits and time to drive between tasting rooms. Most wineries are located in rural areas where roads can be narrow and winding. Additionally, trucks are on the roads at this time of year carrying loads of grapes and moving slowing. Relax and allow yourself plenty of time to take in the scenery.
• Responsible Tasting: Schedule appointments and look at maps to learn the driving routes. Visitors often underestimate travel time between one region and another so ask for distance and approximate times when calling ahead. If taking a limo or bus, make sure the winery allows large parties. Determine which wineries are open for public tasting and their business hours. Have a designated driver when possible and also use spit buckets and share tastes as appropriate.
Resources:
Food and Wine Events Calendars:
Viticultural Area Maps, Reference Guides and Information:
AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTY
Regional Wine Associations Share Touring Tips
Each year, tourists visit wine regions throughout California to explore the state’s 2,000 wineries and the diverse array of cultural attractions. From gardens, art museums, great seasonal cuisine and artisan foods to natural hot springs, spa treatments, beaches, redwood groves, golf, and boutique shopping, California wine country offers travelers many diversions between visiting the wineries.
With so much to choose from, some of the state’s regional winery associations have shared their “insider” tips for having great experiences while touring their wine regions. The following are recommendations for three ideal days in Amador County, Lodi, Monterey County, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, Santa Cruz County and Sonoma County from these travel and hospitality experts
AMADOR COUNTY
Nestled in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, two hours from San Francisco, Amador County boasts 35 small family wineries, some of California’s finest old-vine Zinfandels, gorgeous scenery and many captivating Gold Rush-era attractions.
Begin your tour in Jackson visiting the wonderful Amador County Museum, which boasts a treasure trove of memorabilia from the Gold Rush days. Then, head east to Pine Grove to visit Indian Rock Grinding State Park, located in a small valley 2,400 feet above sea level. From Pine Grove, travel northeast to the charming Gold Rush town of Volcano for dinner and a night’s stay at the historic St. George Hotel.
On your second day, explore the Black Chasm Caverns in Volcano and then head west to Sutter Creek to savor its quaint Main Street shops and Gold Rush-era buildings. Enjoy a casual lunch and local wines at Susan’s Wine Bar, then visit Sutter Ridge Vineyards to taste one of California’s few Tempranillos. Thrill-seekers should be sure to book a tour of the Sutter Gold Mine. From Sutter Creek, head north to Plymouth, gateway to the wineries of the Shenandoah Valley. Join the locals for some delicious ribs and Zinfandels at Incahoots, than bed down at the nearby Plymouth House Inn.
On your third day, buy a snack at the gourmet Amador Vintage Market in Plymouth before setting off for the gorgeous scenery and charming wineries of the Shenandoah Valley. Be sure to stop at Montevina, one of California’s venerable producers of classic old-vine Zinfandel, and Shenandoah Vineyards, a producer of an array of top-value Amador wines. Also check out Avio, a new winery specializing in Italian varietals, and Dobra Zemjla, a quintessential Amador producer of “Big Reds.”
For more touring information, visit www.amadorwine.com.
LODI
Lodi Wine Country is a hidden jewel in California wine country. Begin your journey with the glass of wine you are handed as you check into the quaint Amorosa Inn and Gardens at Vino Con Brio Winery. Head to downtown Lodi, strolling along boutique and antique shops as you make your way to School Street Bistro, owned by local winemaker, David Akiyoshi and wife Trisha.
Spend the next day tasting wine in Lodi Wine Country, making sure to stop at Jessie’s Grove Winery, a historic farm property highlighting the history of Lodi. Then head to Phillips Farms so you can experience the Michael-David Winery and grab a snack at the farm fresh café. Next, stop by Chocoholic’s Chocolate Factory in Clements to practice chocolate making first-hand with self-guided tours and chocolate tasting in their gift shop.
Be sure to also check out the thousands of acres of nature preserves surrounding Lodi. A paradise to avid birders and nature lovers, the river-rich basin and marshes are home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. The Cosumnes River Preserve is a favorite among visitors and offers year-round hiking trails and an educational visitor center.
During the winter months, the Sandhill Crane come to nest, offering individuals an opportunity to view this magnificent bird. Lodi celebrates the arrival of the crane each November with the Sandhill Crane Festival featuring nature-related educational classes, bus tours and entertainment.
Spend the next two nights in the hands of Wine & Roses so you can experience seasonally flavored cuisine, beautiful Tuscan appointed guest rooms and luxurious spa facilities. Just a short walk from your room at Wine & Roses is the interactive Lodi Wine & Visitor Center where you can walk through the demonstration vineyard, learn about winegrape growing and winemaking, find out more about a number of local wineries and everyone’s favorite part – taste a selection of over 200 Lodi wines.
See www.lodiwine.com for more visitor information.
MONTEREY COUNTY
Each winegrowing area within Monterey County’s 40,000 acres of grapes offers unique wine tasting experiences.
Start your first day with the convenient tasting venues throughout the popular vacation areas of Monterey and Carmel-by-the Sea. From there, check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which Zagat Survey rated as the nation's top aquarium and the third best attraction in the U.S. Next, get ready for some excitement with kayaking or whale watching. End your day with fabulous cuisine at one of the restaurants near Cannery Row while watching a beautiful Monterey Bay sunset.
On your second day, visit the intimate tasting rooms in the Carmel Valley Village. Spiritual seekers will find inspiration at Esalen in Big Sur, or by walking the labyrinth near the mouth of Carmel Valley. Mid-afternoon, go tide pooling along the rocky shore, ride horseback over open meadows, or hike in one of the many nature preserves. Explore Monterey County’s ninety-nine miles of Pacific coastline and the world-famous 17 Mile Drive. Then, treat yourself to one of the many pampering packages at one of the world-class spas, such as Pebble Beach or Quail Lodge. Finally, golf at one of these resorts or one of over 10 other wonderful golf courses in the area.
Head over into the Salinas Valley on the third day. First, speed enthusiasts will want to take in a race at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Then literature buffs can visit the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas to experience a journey through John Steinbeck’s world, experiencing Steinbeck’s works and philosophy through interactive, multi-sensory exhibits for all ages and backgrounds, priceless artifacts, entertaining displays, educational programs, and research archives. Wrap up the afternoon with a tour along River Road and visit one of the many new tasting rooms that have recently opened. End the evening by staying at The Inn at the Pinnacles, located adjacent to the Chalone Winery. Check in your bags at The Inn and then hike through the Pinnacles Monument. End your evening by listening to the coyotes and eating a gourmet meal at this exclusive inn.
For more information on Monterey, visit: www.montereywines.org.
NAPA VALLEY
Napa Valley is a renowned world class winegrowing region that was the first recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA) among California’s 107 AVAs. Though most known for full-bodied, signature Cabernet Sauvignons, the 400 wineries in the Napa Valley produce a range of wines including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot among others.
Start your tour visiting a winery off the beaten path, such as the Hess Collection on Mt. Veeder where within its three-story winery houses a renowned collection of modern art. Have lunch at Domaine Chandon’s restaurant with sparkling wines from this well-known winery in Yountville. On Highway 29, visit the Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville for an educational tour. Unwind overnight at the Meadowood Napa Valley Resort, site of the annual Auction Napa Valley, or one of the many bed and breakfast inns dotting the valley.
Day two begins with exploring wineries along or near the Silverado Trail, such as Groth, Duckhorn, Clos du Val, Stag’s Leap Winery, Rudd or Miner Family Vineyards. Make a reservation to do a wine blending seminar at Conn Creek Winery. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch on the lawn at V. Sattui Winery’s delicatessen, then take a break from wine tasting and visit the charming town of St. Helena for some shopping. Dean and De Luca is a purveyor of wine country eats and accessories and there are several unique antique stores and boutiques.
Begin day three with a visit to the historic Rhine House of Beringer Vineyards in St. Helena. Next, take a tram ride up to Sterling Vineyards’ hilltop winery and take in the view of Napa Valley on their patio. Travel to nearby Calistoga to shop or visit one of the several historic spas for a mud bath, massage or natural hot springs soak. End this day with a cooking class and dinner at the Culinary Institute of America.
For more information, visit: www.napavintners.com
PASO ROBLES
Paso Robles Wine Country is centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles along California’s Central Coast. The region is home to 170 wineries and more than 26,000 vineyard acres, making it the state’s third largest wine region. More than 40 wine varieties are grown and produced here. From Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Zinfandel to Viognier, Roussanne and Marsanne, you can find a wide selection of wines.
Begin your stay by exploring the wineries as well as the thriving community. Between winery visits, take a stroll through the downtown City Park, outlined with boutique shopping, olive oil tasting, and several fine dining restaurants.
On the second day, take a quick 30-minute trip to the coast; just 30 minutes puts you on the sandy beaches where you might spot elephant seals. Next, tour the majestic Hearst Castle San Simeon State Historical Monument. Choose between five tours, ranging from the basic “Experience Tour” to the upper floors and gardens to a special tour at night. Tour reservations are required to guarantee the tour, date, and time desired.
On your third day, check out the WineYard at Steinbeck Vineyards, where you can discover Paso Robles Wine Country aboard a vintage jeep. The winegrape growers lead this excursion through the vineyards and talk about planting a vineyard and the growing season.
More wine touring information is at www.pasowine.com.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
With easy access to the San Francisco and San Jose airports, the Santa Cruz Mountain tasting rooms in Saratoga and Los Gatos are a good place to start your tour. Also, stop by nearby historic Cooper-Garrod Vineyards, Savannah Chanelle, and Testarossa. Hakone Gardens, an 18-acre Japanese-style garden and koi pond, is along the way, and one can enjoy a concert at Montalvo Arts Center and dine at Sent Sovi before a comfortable overnight stay at Saratoga Inn.
Day two takes you up and over the Santa Cruz Mountains. Putter along Bear Creek Road, enjoying David Bruce Winery and the Chateau at Byington. Cross over Highway 17 to explore Summit Road and a tasting at Burrell School. Next, pick up lunch supplies at the Summit Store before venturing over the other side to Soquel. Enjoy dinner at charming Cafe Sparrow in Aptos near the coast, before cozying up in the quaint Historic Sand Rock Farm Bed & Breakfast.
Start your third day with a walk on the beach prior to the tasting room and gallery at Bargetto Winery. Plan on lunch at Aldo’s on the Santa Cruz Wharf and then head to Storrs Winery to sample more wines. Next, spend some time sipping the sparkling wines at Equinox. Finish your day on the Santa Cruz Wharf with a visit to see the sea lions and do wine tasting with Beauregard Vineyards.
Touring information is at www.scmwa.com.
SONOMA COUNTY
Sonoma County’s world famous and diverse wines would make this premium winegrowing region an unbeatable destination in itself, but it also offers weeks worth of amazing visitor experiences that have nothing to do with wine—a rare combination.
Begin one day in the Russian River Valley tasting the area’s Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. End up in the picturesque town of Healdsburg, where you can enjoy boutique shopping and a leisurely lunch in the town square. Spend the afternoon out at the coast, stopping along the way in Dry Creek Valley to sample Zinfandel. At Bodega Bay, walk along the beach, go whale watching, or just enjoy the view. End the day with a fresh seafood dinner and an ocean sunset. Stay in one of the area’s many bed and breakfast inns or drive back to Healdsburg for a laid-back luxury hotel experience.
Day two, enjoy wonderful hiking in Jack London State Park and view the museum dedicated to the writer, before experiencing yet another distinctive wine area, Sonoma Valley, known for its Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tour vineyards, vibrant gardens and buzzing wildlife sanctuaries at Benziger Vineyards, which offers visitors a 45-minute adventure in winegrowing via a tractor tram tour of their estate in Glen Ellen. Then head to historic downtown Sonoma for shopping and restaurants. Unwind at one of the region’s numerous spas before spending the night in Sonoma.
Get up early on your third day to go hot-air ballooning, or have a more leisurely morning browsing a local farmer’s market. Pick up some picnic supplies and head out to a winery in picturesque Alexander Valley for an idyllic wine-country lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy one of Sonoma’s more than 20 golf courses, or rent a bike and travel down the region’s back roads.
Maps of Sonoma County wineries can be found at www.sonomawine.com. In addition, the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau is a great source for lodging and restaurant information at www.sonomacounty.com.
SEE ALSO: Wine Institute Article on Northern California Viticultural Areas