Wine Tasting in the Winter

Yes it is February. We are in the middle of winter and as it turns out it's a perfect time to go wine tasting in California. Everywhere the hills are green, the mustard is starting to blossom and the vines are thinking of popping their buds. The temperatures vary depending on where in California you go, but in general there is only going to be a 20 degree difference, if that, from Temecula in the south to Anderson Valley in the north. The highs for the day can reach the 60's but you should plan on it being more like the 50's. The morning will be freezing, literally. Whether it's raining or a beautifully clear blue-sky day, the wineries will welcome you with open arms. Always, if you go on a weekday Monday - Thursday it will be very quiet and you might even have to call some of the wineries to ask them to open up for you. This is very nice though, you can get one-on-one with the winemaker or owner. You will learn all that you want to learn about wine and the winemaking process. Fridays - Sunday will be a bit more crowded, not too bad, but more wineries will be open. I hear that a lot of the winemakers like to come and pour on Fridays just to have a change in pace. Don't forget to try some of the regions that aren't off the beaten path such as, Temecula near San Diego, and the Gold Country which has over three different counties. In the Bay Area, try Livermore, Santa Cruz Mountains and the Anderson Valley, Mendocino Coast. All these areas are fairly touristy in the summer and fall. There all have great restaurants, bed and breakfasts and wonderful hikes in each area. Go to ViciVino.com for a listing of the regions and the resources in each region. Let me know where you went and how much fun you had.