The Experience
Vineyards & Farm-to-Table Delights in Sonoma & Napa
Some wines have a complexity. Flavors that reach you in different ways at different times. This adventure puts you in the hands of experts and artisans to give you a rare and unique epicurean experience. Hiking on the estate of one of the region’s first winemakers. Enjoying cheese tastings and listening to the farmers discuss sustainable farming. Experiencing the wild of Jack London State Park and picnicking on mountain tops. Every day a simple, raw piece of the complex place that we call Wine Country, seen through the eyes of the people who live and work the land. Enjoy every taste. Intimate and interactive instruction from award-winning chefs and bakers Chat, hike and taste with local winemakers Seasonal produce, a multitude of cheeses, fresh-baked breads, olive oil, honey…the local bounty is virtually endless! Superb dining opportunities, including an unforgettable Michelin-starred dinner at Calistoga’s acclaimed Solbar Sink into the lap of luxury at a trio of chic Wine Country hotels
DAYS 1-2 Walk in the mountainside vineyards of Kunde Family Estate to witness sustainable winegrowing and the grape-to-glass process firsthand In Sonoma, hike through manzanita-covered hillside to a spectacular overlook, explore the town’s historic Spanish-style plaza, have a sip in a cozy tasting room or relax at our hotel’s spa Partake in an olive oil tasting before our evening cooking demo and dinner. DAY 3 Learn a few secrets from the pros during a hands-on pastry making class, paired with coffee from a local producer In Jack London State Park, explore the oak-shaded “Beauty Ranch” of the famed author and adventurer Visit a small eco-friendly farm and learn about sustainable farming and the farm-to-table movement. DAY 4 Dine in Michelin star-studded style at chef Brandon Sharp’s Solbar restaurant Ancient coastal redwoods provide a majestic backdrop for our hike in Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve Gain a new appreciation for the local sheep, cows and goats during a cheese tasting at Oakville Grocery Treat yourself to some vinotherapy at our hotel’s award-winning spa or enjoy a lively round of bocce ball. DAYS 5-6 Life is sweet at the CIA culinary school – enjoy a chocolate tasting! Follow a rocky trail through a historic mining area for views of the Napa Valley It’s no ordinary soil: rejuvenate with a Calistoga mud treatment and find out what the fuss is all about Walk amid veggies and herbs in the French Laundry’s gorgeous kitchen garden before a stroll and dinner in Yountville, the culinary capital of Napa Valley There’s no better way to wrap up this delicious week than with a walk and cooking demonstration at St. Helena’s bustling farmers’ market.
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The Route
