February 22, 2009

Yesterday we drove up to Sonoma and Napa valley to visit wineries. We stopped at Jacuzzi, Larsen Family and Ballentine to taste. Each had its own unique character. Jacuzzi was very crowded but the host was very attentive and focused on us - their speciality is Italian style wines which were very tasty. The Larsen Family is located down unpaved road - very rural feeling. We really enjoyed the Gewurtztraminer and purchased a bottle which was consumed while we played a game of boules overlooking the vineyard. Gerry and I took an early lead. Patty and Don tried to make a comeback but we pulled out a win. The mustard was blooming in the fields and was very photogenic. For lunch, we dined at The Rutherford Grill (Patty and Gerry's favorite restaurant) - good food and ambience. We ate so late that it became our lunch and dinner. Our last stop was at Ballentine-we purchased a case of red - big, full taste - YUM!!!
Today it is really raining here. We are taking a slow, lazy day. Patty is leaving us to fly to Albuquerqe, New Mexico with her mom, Lois for a meeting and some touring. We'll miss her.