Here we are, right in the middle of an amazing wine region. I LOVE WINE, always have. Especially deep, rich California reds. It’s been fun since visiting Napa over recent years to not just sample Napa wines, but to then also understand/appreciate the qualities from other regions. So today was so exciting to experience this area which has had our attention recently. It did not disappoint!
In our planning, we reviewed the larger wineries that were highly rated as a starting point. That’s where we went today. First stop, Daou. The scenery was as stunning as some of the boutique Napa wineries we have visited. Mountainside, sweeping views, rows of vineyards, stunning landscaping and quaint seating areas. The wine covered a wide range, and of course some were just not for us. That’s how wine tasting goes. But dangerously, we found some bottles that had to be purchased!
Second stop, Austin Hope/Treana. This one was special since it became our Paso connection from at all places, Put In Bay. One sunny afternoon a few years ago, we enjoyed a bottle lakeside and Rick posted a picture on Facebook (shocking, I know). Our friend Dan was so excited that we had a wine from his favorite wine region since he and his wife Alex have lived out here for a number of years. It struck up a conversation, a get together in Carmel a couple of years ago, and we’ll have him to thank for our next couple of reservations. (plus we hope to see them over the next couple of weeks) He wants us to see his favorite wineries in the region, and we’re all for taking trusted recommendations from friends! But our tasting at Austin Hope was fantastic as well. Again, the team at the winery learns your preferences by having you try things, and then of course you find things you love…. and have to buy them.
What’s exciting about this is that they aren’t things you can buy in any retail store or order at a restaurant. Of course, they also come with a price tag. So another dangerously expensive day. But oh so worth it! We may have to go back to work to afford our wine habit alone.
Navigating Livvy to, in, out and around the area was better than expected. Again, another difference compared to Napa is that there is more space in general. I appreciate Rick taking the driving today!
We got back in plenty of time for a long walk around the campground and some time in the sun. Back for more danger tomorrow!
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