It’s just as well that Dennis Mitchell isn’t behind the bar when I drop by this afternoon, because I’m empty-handed. The low-key, affable Mitchell, who manages the tasting room with wife Diane, won’t ask for a bottle of homemade wine from everyone who walks in the door, but if I’ve recently corked a new vintage, I’d do better to stay {…}
If you want to recharge after visiting more than 300 wineries, here are a few new ways to explore Sonoma County. Redwood Arts Council Celebrates 30th Season See world-class musicians in an intimate venue that has near-perfect acoustics, at the Occidental Community Church. For music lovers, this is a great opportunity to spend a weekend among the redwoods and be {…}
Annual events offer more reasons to visit Sonoma County If you think Sonoma County is just about great wine, think again. A robust annual calendar of events gives you dozens of reasons to visit any time of year. Find a new reason to visit, see more events, and book your trip at www.sonomacounty.com. Winter (Through February) While much of the {…}
I went spelunking in Sonoma County recently. After an easy climb from the trailhead, I entered a veritable fairyland, a true “live cave” brimming with activity. Imagine my surprise and embarrassment when I realized caving in wine country didn’t require my carbide headlamp, crampons, or rope. I was woefully over-equipped for the expedition. And the “life” forms in this cave? {…}
Where to begin? Masala Jack’s Indian Curry House is by far the best Indian restaurant I have found. I’m a traveler, father of two, author, and business person and I’m always happy to share great experiences. I would recommend the Tikka Masala with your choice of chicken or lamb. I’m more partial to the lamb, however my girlfriend loves the {…}
You’ve tasted the wines, now hike through the vineyards that grow the amazing grapes. Too active for you? New winery tasting rooms have opened, special events are planned and more. It’s a great time to visit Sonoma County. Sonoma County Vineyard Adventure Program Kicks Off The Sonoma County Winegrape Commission (SCWC) began its Vineyard Adventure Program on Jan. 1. On {…}
It’s a balmy winter day – well, balmy if you’re from the frozen tundra we call the Midwest – and what better way to enjoy the 50-plus-degree weather than exploring outdoor sculpture gardens. Cornerstone Sonoma Blends Quirky and Fabulous Packed with delightful, unexpected surprises and set amid world-renowned architectural gardens, Cornerstone Place is a wine country experience unlike anything you’ve {…}
Is there a tastier way to explore Sonoma County than through its restaurants? I think not. People don’t live by bread alone, but sample some of the breads at our bakeries and you’ll wonder, “Why not.” If bread is just your starter course, make sure you try out some of these new restaurants or find a great deal at one {…}
The Bohemian Highway is one of the most scenic drives to be found anywhere in California. This special 10-mile roadway winds through towering redwoods, gorgeous pastures, rocky ravines, and three charming townships forgotten by time: Freestone, Occidental and Monte Rio. Buffered from the extremes of the marine fog and inland heat, this corridor is a gem of benign climate and {…}
Harvest season in Sonoma County is one of our favorite times to celebrate, and we do this with passion. There are plenty of things to celebrate here – food, wine, music, art, our diverse culture, our famous redwood trees, airplanes, cars, and even a hand-car regatta showcasing human ingenuity … we just like to have fun. Come have fun with {…}
