From their visitnapavalley.com website: As harvest wraps up, we welcome the start of Cabernet Season – the best time to visit for those in the know. Once the grapes are harvested and the temperatures are perfectly mild, the Napa Valley becomes a haven for cozy getaways, hearty fare, and of course, the world’s most spectacular wine. It’s a time when an intimate atmosphere emerges, perfect for exploring all the culture (and Cabernet) the valley has to offer.
Of course, no mention of the recent fires. I can tell you that driving through a burned and parched valley is not very uplifting. I know they want us to return, but for me, it is a bit soon. Perhaps a drive to the Central Coast might be a better option right now?
The visitNapaValley.com website is excellent. But try discovercaliforniawines.com for a better perspective on our state’s wine regions. You will find a plethora of information and travel ideas on both websites.
Just for fun, look at one of my favorites from the Central Coast:
Wine Brands: DAOU
Signature Varietals: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel
Details: Gracefully perched atop a stunning promontory at 2,200 feet, our Spanish Colonial style winery is embraced by a tangible serenity. Hawks wheel and bank while the all-day sun caresses close planted rows of lush, emerald green vines. The 100 percent calcareous soil makes no sound as it parses out nourishment and only a gentle breeze flows up through the Templeton Gap from the Pacific. The quiet is bewitching; you want to lay down roots here, just as the four-year-old vines have done. But the sense of peace belies the serious work and effort that goes into the luscious varietals and blends that flow from our limited production winery.
Also, just down the road in Arroyo Grande, is my favorite Central Coast sparkling winery, Laetitia Vineyard and Winery. Just drive south on 101 to Arroyo Grande, next town south of Pismo. One feature we enjoy there is their picnic area. Just buy some wine and bring a picnic lunch. We usually bring sushi. And they allow Lexi on the grounds!
Most importantly, the Central Coast is a better farm to table dining location. Our favorite is Ember, where you will find a menu comparable to any in Napa Valley or the Bay Area. The ocean is next door, and the local farms are just a driver and 9 iron away. And the hotels here are considerably less than Napa Valley.
If you have some favorites, please feel free to share your thoughts and tastes. I have been all over the world wine tasting and traveling. We have some of the best right here in California!
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