in the three weeks we have lived in the north bay, we have already visited napa three times. on a whim during our first week here, we jumped in the car at 4:30pm and headed 12 miles up the road (i know, its a tough life being so close to this fabulous location) in an attempt to get dinner and perhaps, try some wine. what we learned when we stopped at the wine tasting and concierge service in downtown napa, is that wineries and vineyards keep normal business hours, and were consequently already closed. although we were disappointed, the trip was not completely in vain. upon expressing that we had never wine tasted before but that we were eager to learn, we were presented with a wine tasting guide as our "homework", and invited to come back soon.
the following sunday, we did just that. wit a brand new journal in hand, and began our tour of the downtown wine bars at that same shop, where we discovered what promises be a new hobby! if truth be told, neither mark nor i was sure that we would actually like wine tasting, but we were excited to try something new and found ourselves absolutely loving it! taking the time to appreciate the many dimensions of wine - to study its clarity and aromas, to learn that the complexity of flavors tells a unique story - was fascinating. my favorite of the day was goosecross 2006 chenin blanc - slightly sweet a first, and the perfect compliment to cheese and fruit. a close second was girard 2003 artistry - a delightfully complex red blend.
we made only one more stop that day, where mark found his favorite wine - mandolin 2006 pinot noir - of which we've already enjoyed two bottles!
our most recent visit to napa was during mark's dad, norman's, visit this past saturday. nancy hawkes miller, of goosecross cellars, teaches a wonderful wine basics class, which we found incredibly insightful, and i recommend to everyone - whether you are new to wine tasting or would simply enjoy learning a bit more about viticulture. norman described the merlot we studied as "the smoothest" he has ever tasted, and we found the chardonnay to be unusually fruity and crisp, a signature combination of winemaker geoff gorsuch.
in front of rows of cabernetan additional note: if ever visiting napa, we highly recommend stopping for a bite to eat at buckhorn grill, where the tri-tip sandwiches are absolutely delicious!
3 comments:
looks like you guys are having fun. glad you're enjoying the wine culture there....let me know if you make it to duckhorn or la crema!
how nice to be so close. i love wine tastings! we took part in two on our honeymoon, and it was so much fun.
nice that mark's dad could come for a visit, too. looks like you're having a grand old time!
this is a public service announcement reminding you that it is quality friday and you need to post. love you!
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