Your getaway into the plentiful wine regions of California is an ideal way to cherish time with a loved one. California is home to some of the best wineries in the world, which makes it a hot spot for wine enthusiasts everywhere.
If you want to produce the greatest memories that reds and whites can make, you will need to prepare for your trip. The ultimate wine country experience must include lush scenery, cozy bed and breakfast cabins, farm-stocked restaurants, and a steady flow of the vino you prefer. Here’s how you can make the most of your trip to California wine country.
Choice Wines and Where to Find Them
It’s best to start with the blends and the places they are being aged. Napa Valley, California, is a well-known region, but it’s not the only land of wine in the Golden State. Here’s a look at some other wine regions to explore on your upcoming trip.
Livermore Valley
Look for expressive bottles of Sirah and Sauvignon Blanc when you visit Livermore. The land’s wine has been in production for over 130 years. Its valley has even received the highest awards from the Paris Exposition.
Mendocino
At a refreshing distance from from the sea air of the Pacific Ocean, Mendocino’s wines are crafted through a unique breeze as they go through the aging process. You can even find time for whale watching when you’re here. Just don’t forget about Mendocino’s classic Sundial Chardonnay blends.
Sierra Foothills
Locals call this area “gold country.” It’s famous for red wines and for being the actual birthplace of the Zinfandel variety. Here is where you’ll meet farmers who have the oldest producing vines in the state.
Santa Cruz Mountains
Come here to enjoy the coastal elevation of the Appellations with its fresh, calming air. San Francisco Bay is synonymous with the region as well as the mountain terroir of the wines produced within these peaks. The vineyards rely on the natural elements of the land and little else.
Russian River
Expect an exquisite mix of Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from Russian River. The land hosts a mix of private and family-owned vineyards. The area is known for its small towns tucked away in the cascading hills of Sonoma Valley. These acres are becoming known for single-vineyard productions. The wineries grow, juice, barrel, and then bottle their concoctions within a single site.
Vineyard Courses and Wine Education
Learning about how to brew your own vineyard collection is exciting. These experiences don’t just allow you to crush a few of your own grapes. Learning about how to create your favorite burgundies gives you a better appreciation for the taste, texture, and feel of any vintage your pour. Get a head start on your education by choosing the ideal wine course.
California produces up to 90 percent of all the wine aged within the United States. Here are a few places to start learning more about wine:
Napa Valley Wine Academy
Whether you’re growing vines as a hobby or a future profession, this program offers theory, tastings, and an online option for busy couples. The team is so involved that you become a Certified Specialist of Wine when you’re done.
International Culinary Center
Here’s another California school that sits within wine country. Its course sends you through a tasting schedule that covers over 300 different blends. You’ll develop your knowledge of taste and compare barrels from all over the world.
The National Wine School
Choose from courses on Spanish or Italian wines at this agency. It provides a collection of certification courses upon your request.
Guides and Bus Tours
Wine country provides more experiences than anyone could possibly enjoy in a day. A week isn’t enough to cover ground. Consider managing your time with a winery bus tour through California. Getting from vineyard to vineyard in a day requires comfortable and reliable transportation. With a bus tour, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery with your friends, family, and traveling companions. You won’t have to worry about navigating the unfamiliar terrain of wine country and can focus more attention on savoring the experience.
The complete experience of a winery tour covers tastings, bottling, meal, and stops within the breathtaking scenery. Here’s your chance to build a stronger bond with your loved ones and to meet new people from all walks of life.
Reservations Made in Advance
Whatever you choose to do in wine country, don’t arrive underprepared. California’s wine valleys are popular destinations for day and weekend trips. Make reservations in advance. Find the accommodations you need for the dates that appeal to you. There are endless choices of restaurants. But some places will be more crowded than others. A reservation will ensure that you are able to see and do everything on your itinerary.
Savor the Experience
With lush vineyards, premium vintages, and fantastic food, there’s no better way to spend a vacation than by sampling the local flavor of California Wine country. Famed for its vineyards, California provides an unmatched tasting experience to tourists across the world. Make the most of your trip by first researching the wine regions you wish to explore, and then book a winery shuttle to take you there. With the right preparation, you’re sure to savor the wine tour experience.
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