Back from Napa. A fantastic time. But really, we were drinking^H^H^H^H^Htasting by 10am every day, having great food, and generally enjoying the perfect Napa weather. The company couldn't have been better - nor could the wine. What more could you ask for?
We stayed at the Palmer B&B in Calistoga. It's a small 2 bedroom B&B, so we took up the whole thing. Our hosts were an older Greek couple that reminded all of us of Leave it to Beaver era grandparents. We could never eat enough for breakfast. I think our hosts had never actually seen a live vegetarian before. Or at least, they didn't quite understand the concept. Maybe if we go back they'll get it.
So we return a bit (ha!) poorer, but quite satisfied and well rested. If a bit dehydrated. Most everyone is on vacation this week at work, so I was able to ease back in to my 3 day work week. Whew!
Random thoughts from the wineries:
- Don't stop at random places you see from the road that you've never heard of (you know who you are, Peju and Rutherford Hill). No good can come of it, and if you're off to Stag's Leap, Silver Oak, and Caymus, don't waste time! (Ok, maybe this would work for a longer trip, but don't do it your first time.)
- I don't like pretentious wineries. I mean, I don't mind that Opus One is smug, and pretty much lets you know they don't care about the plebeians, but, geez, Duckhorn Vineyards - get over yourself. Beringer - it's not a yacht club, tone done on the wood paneling.
- Speaking of Opus One - "Eh, it's okay." From a person that hates all red wine, I suppose that's a compliment. Personally, I wished they weren't tasting the '02. It's not their best effort, and at $165 a bottle, well, it can stay on there shelves forever at that price.
- Whitehall Lane and Stag's Leap are fantastic. Silver Oak too. Especially want to single out Whitehall Lane for being really accessable and letting us order their very small production single vineyard cabernet.
- Anyone that tells your their wine is 'accessible' during the tour is basically letting you know you can pour their crap out without even tasting it. And not providing anyplace to spit will earn your zin on the lawn from me, thanyouverymuch.
- Try to find the person in the tasting room that's either the manager, or at least a step up from the random shmoe they hired yesterday to pour the wine. First off, you'll actually be able to have an intelligent discussion about the wine. But more importantly, the manager is empowered to pour 'extra' wines that aren't on the tasting menu. They save the best stuff for people that show an interest. If they have a $50/375ml dessert wine you want to task - just ask! Who knows? They may open a cold bottle and give you a double taste for your trouble (thanks, Trefethen!)
Sorry we missed the CA crowd this trip. Driving to and from LA in addition to the flights caused some travel fatigue, and we (hic up!) were awfully busy going from winery to winery. We're already planning on going back next year, so we'll plan some slack time and try to visit more.