CA Trip Part 3

The last leg of our trip was spent in Sonoma County, specifically Forestville. Everyone says Sonoma is more how Napa used to be. I thought it quite charming. The wineries were smaller and tucked away down country roads. We stayed at the Farmhouse B&B. It was wonderful! They had a "bath bar" where you could pick from different bath salts, scrubs, and soaps each day (uh, yes please). It was also centrally located in the Russian River Valley which is known for their outstanding pinot niors.

Our cottage

This was our favorite winery in the area. The best pinot nior and sauvignon blanc. Also small world story: We were talking to the winemaker and owner at the tasting, and he said he had just been in Mountain Brook to visit family. Turns out his first cousin is in our small group at church. 

Mr. Peacock roaming

Schramsburg, known for their sparklings

Delicious aparagus soup at BarnDiva in Healdsburg

My cousins, Debbie and Annie came to spend the day with us, such a treat!

At Bella winery

Glorious!

On the way back into SF, we stopped at Baker beach for a few pictures.

Well that finally wraps it up! James and I both agreed this area would be revisited again someday.

James's notes:  Overall, the trip was fabulous. A perfect getaway for those loving food, wine,and relaxation in a gloriously beautiful setting. My favorites from the trip were Del Dotto Winery ( absolute best), fried chicken(the best yet) at Ad Hoc, Lunch at Auberge(amazing) braised short rib and lobster risotto with an apple tart for dessert; Schramsberg Reserve Sparkling wines and tour; Italian dinner at Scopa in Healdsburg, lunch at Oakville grocery, Arista winery -Pinot Noirs. The week was great completely. It was great to slow down and reconnect with my wife.  The sonoma area was very laid back and not as commercialized compared to Napa. The place to stay is Yountville,Ca in the Napa valley due to the proximity to great food and the wineries-along with a very charming town too. San Francisco was walked  in a day and if visiting Gott's Roadside is not to be missed - amazing. I can't wait to go back.

-James