On Chris’ (Red Hog Diary) last full day here in the area, my sister Ang and I took him to Napa. What we hadn’t anticipated is that the temperatures throughout the Central Valley would be hovering in the 108-112 range. We hit Napa about 11:30 and started with a visit to Domaine Carneros, a winery that specializes in sparkling wines. It was wonderful, as always, even though I was the designated driver and could not partake in the samples. Then, we moved on to Prager, which specializes in making California Ports. Not a big fan, but they enjoyed—but too bad about the grouchy tasting purveyor. Ang then wanted to try a winery she had never tried, so we pulled into the tiny Flora Springs, known for its Trilogy blend. Finally, as the heat was relentless we decided to try to visit Niebaum Coppola, which since Angee’s last visit has become Rubicon Estates and charges $25 per tasting—we decided to pass on that. Apparently, Francis Ford Coppola still owns the property, but had purchased another vineyard in another location and is shifting his focus on the higher end market for the Napa property.
It’s important, when visitors come a callin’, to give them the best experience they can have. Chris had the fortune to have two experts in their chosen area as tour guides—Viv for the San Francisco area and Angee for Napa. He’s getting ready to roll out, gear packed, for his trip north to Ft. Bragg and a trip up Highway 1 where ultimately, he’ll meet up with his riding buddies somewhere near Tacoma—hope you’ll follow the rest of his adventures on his blog. It’s been a great visit that I hope will be one of many. I think his kids would fall in love with the place. And, Chris, thanks for finally giving up your trademark, “Can you bring me an ashtray?” every time we went anywhere!
Back to reality for me tomorrow, but fortunately, only for a couple days. I’m headed back down to San Diego for the last of my little mini-vacations. The kids, who have been gone for exactly five weeks now, will be returning on August 5th. School start date is just around the corner from that, so it’s back to the routine—but, hey, it’s a pretty nice routine.
I’m looking at another 110 degree day here and I hear there is some bad stuff going on in Lebanon, so I better take some time and catch up on the news, pay my bills, do my laundry (but not before 8 pm—I’m Flexing My Power) and scrubbing my floor. Oh, the glamorous life I lead!
Harley-Davidson motorcycle is more than just transportation. It really is an American icon and is one of a . . . handful that we're left with culturally. I'd put it in the same class as jazz music.
~ Orvel Wilson
Published on: Jul 23, 2006
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