The Poetry of Sonoma Valley
Sonoma is magical. There's really no other way to describe it. So lush and green. If the travel gods are smiling upon me, I make a point to go out there at least a couple of times a year. Nothing compares to the serene energy and - important to a girl who lives in L.A. - fresh air!
On my last visit to the valley, my fella and I went to relax over the Christmas break. We first flew in the San Francisco, where we spent an evening dining at the incomparable Marrakech (make reservations for dinner to coincide with the belly dance shows at 8p and 10p), and danced the night away as Jerome Isma-Ae spun EDM gold at the popular Ruby Skye. The next morning we rented a car intown (saves on the airport fees and the steep overnight parking San Francisco is famous for) and began our journey.
Our first stop was Sausalito. It's been on my bucket list - super close to the city so it's one of those places where you tell yourself, "It's easy, we can do it anytime." So anytime was this time, and i'd booked brunch for us at Salito's Crab House. Sausalito is GORGEOUS! Majestic landscapes that overlook a pristine harbor, with views of San Francisco in the distance. Even in the chilly weather, we loved it. We weren't crazy about lunch (and i really wanted to be), but it was worth it for the beautiful vistas!
After lunch, we made the short drive to wine country to check in to our hotel - The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance. A beautiful property with all the elements to facilitate happiness and relaxation: world class spa, gorgeous pool and outdoor lounge, an amazing restaurant, a shuttle to the Sonoma square, and nightly complimentary wine tastings for the local wineries. We had a fantastic room - huge with a sitting area, fireplace, separate deep soaking tub and large balcony. It was perfect! We had dinner that night at the hotel's delectable Carneros Bistro with my best friend and her husband who were in town visiting with family. It was wonderful.
The next morning, we embarked on a wine tour led by Grapeline Tours. It was so much fun! Our guide, Katrina, was funny and knowledgeable, and really made the day special. We visited 4 wineries, had lunch in the vineyards of one (deliciously catered by Sonoma "It" spot, The Girl and the Fig) , and each had delicious wines. I'll do a separate story on the wineries themselves - they deserve that.
When you go to wine country, one thing you can be guaranteed is good food. Farm-to-table is real life out there. You can see, smell and taste the difference. Highlights from our trip: Oso on the Sonoma square, The Q Restaurant and Bar in Napa, and LaSalette and El Dorado Kitchen, both also on the Sonoma square. All exquisite.
We ended our trip to Sonoma by spending time at one of our favorite places: Gloria Ferrier Caves and Vineyard. I'm a proud club member, so we make a point to spend time there whenever in the area. Their sparking wines are incomparable to any other American winemakers, and their grounds are breathtaking. They also have exceptional Pinot Noirs. Something about that Carneros terrior. I love it!
Ultimately, one of the greatest parts of the whole trip was just riding around and taking in the scenery. It's like that place is God's sanctuary. So pure. So peaceful. So magical. Sonoma Valley is unequivocably nature, food and wine at its finest!
-T