Travel #3 Autumn “Crush”
On October 27, 2011 by LoriWe Are All Mortal Until the First Kiss and the Second Glass of Wine. -Eduardo Galeano
Growing up in the Bay Area, it is no surprise that I developed a love for California wines, especially the ones from the heart of Sonoma and Napa Valley.
When you visit California (or if you live here), I recommend you make the drive along the coast and enjoy this beautiful part of our state. Usually the reason travelers visit Napa and Sonoma is due to the wine, but we think it’s also the romance and ambiance. Wine lovers know this season as “crush” – this magical time is the culmination of a year-long growing process. Wine grapes are harvested, crushed and loaded into tanks to start the fermentation process. During this season, you can smell the grapes as you drive throughout the Napa and Sonoma Valley – heavenly!
Jeff proposed to me in Sonoma during Harvest time and we try to visit often. Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa is where he put the ring on my finger.
The Inns rooms are cozy and comfy with fireplaces. Food is mouthwatering. Bowls of fresh picked apples welcome you as you arrive…all while visions of white robes walk all over the property.
Why the white robes? Well, this California resort is the only luxury spa resort in the country with its own source of thermal mineral water. 112 degree waters shoot up from 70 feet underground into their luxurious pools spread out throughout the grounds. So, you check in – go to your room, grab a glass a wine and pick your pool. Every time I enter these hot springs I get lost in the peacefulness of the waters. I embrace the spirit of those who sat here before me over the hundreds of years that these ancient thermal mineral waters have graced this site. It really is a pleasure to enjoy these pure gifts from the earth.
The glass of wine I grab before beginning my retreat is always Napa Valleys “Levendi“. This Greek families vineyard combines their heritage and traditions passed down through generations to create this perfect blend. It’s how they celebrate life! Their Stagecoach Cabernet Sauvignon is a true masterpiece but the 2005 “Sweetwater Ranch” Cabernet Sauvignon fill up my wine rack at home. Click here for a great wine experience.
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