Wine Country 2022

We took the drive straight up the center of California to make it to Petaluma. The trip was planned to be an indulgence with wine and food the main agenda items. I had the idea for the trip since we got a 4 day weekend. I had heard/seen great cycling in the area so I wanted to experience it myself. The road bike made the journey on the back of the car so I could thrash my legs before the afternoon of drinking.

Night one, we went to Stockhome for Swedish food. It was a solid meal and the shop was nice as well. They had some cool items to compliment your house style. We had to start the trip with wine so we walked around to Black Knight for a tasting. They had a bunch of chess boards and I beat Elise in a game. We then had more than we bargained for by having another drink at a wine shop. We met a friendly local who was generous with her wine. A solid night and a sleep to recover was in store.

The next morning I rode further inland toward Sonoma with some less palatable roads. Although much of it was on rural highways, the drivers were much nicer than around LA. The best part was up toward Sonoma mountain on a small quiet road. I saw some beautiful views and went through a small redwood grove.

After riding, I had to get ready quick for 2 upcoming wine tastings. We hit Ridge Winery which had the best views and ambience of the whole trip. The wine was solid and the history of this winery was quite legendary as we learned. They were part of putting California wine on the map. We had lunch at a very busy rural grocery/deli then headed to Unti Winery. This was a small low key place with serious wines. Hitting above their weight, Unti delivered some of the most interesting wine on the trip.

We ate Portuguese for dinner at a fine restaurant but couldn’t stomach any more wine. We had dessert instead.

The next day was the big ride for me, out toward the coast this time. 100 km in total (99 really…) with such a variety of terrain. Starting in some rolling hills with scattered oaks, cows munching, and a few fields of vines the ride went through many a small town. I am sure the property values were outrageous but so were the views, the roads, the whole experience. I saw many more cyclists on this route but a different sort of attitude I guess. Only a small minority waved back or acknowledged me which was strange from my usual cycling interactions. I returned in about 3.5 hours for more wine tasting.

Wine and dinner was in the Napa valley this time. We went to 2 more wineries and then a seriously good dinner. Beringer wines had a ton of history and a beautiful property. The wines were solid too. Napa did have a busier, more touristy, money making sort of vibe. Still a good experience but Sonoma is my preference overall.

Dinner was at Ad Hoc from a famous chef. The dishes were classic American with salad, steak, potatoes, and an ice cream sundae. Although somewhat simple in concept, the execution was exceptional! Each dish brought a classic to a new level some way some how. There was a close call with a piece of broken glass in the dessert. Luckily no harm was caused.