Wine Tasting in the Winter
Yes it is March. We are nearly at the end of winter and as it turns out
it's a perfect time to go wine tasting in California. Everywhere the
hills are green, the mustard is in blossom, and the vines are
thinking of popping their buds. The temperatures vary depending on
where in California you go, but in general there is only going to be a
20 degree difference, if that, from Temecula in the south to Anderson
Valley in the north. The highs for the day can reach the 60's but you
should plan on it being more like the 50's. The morning will be
freezing, literally. Whether it's raining or a beautifully clear
blue-sky day, the wineries will welcome you with open arms. Always, if
you go on a weekday Monday - Thursday it will be very quiet and you
might even have to call some of the wineries to ask them to open up for
you. This is very nice though, you can get one-on-one with the
winemaker or owner. You will learn all that you want to learn about
wine and the winemaking process. Fridays - Sunday will be a bit more
crowded, not too bad, but more wineries will be open. I hear that a lot
of the winemakers like to come and pour on Fridays just to have a
change in pace. Don't forget to try some of the regions that aren't off
the beaten path such as, Temecula near San Diego, and the Gold Country
which has over three different counties. In the Bay Area, try
Livermore, Santa Cruz Mountains and the Anderson Valley, Mendocino
Coast. All these areas are fairly touristy in the summer and fall.
There all have great restaurants, bed and breakfasts and wonderful
hikes in each area. Go to ViciVino.com for a listing of the regions and the resources in each region. Let me know where you went and how much fun you had.







Lori, Nice to get your news! Winter IS a great time to taste wine. Don't forget about the barrel tasting this weekend in Sonoma County. A great way to see how vintages are shaping up.
John
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John, good luck this weekend with the barrel tasting. I know my son Brandon is very excited about pouring at http://duttongoldfield.com. He is the assistant winemaker there. Go and meet him sometime. He would love to meet you.
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