In the golden days of 2008, we embarked on our first big couple’s trip, and boy, was it an unforgettable adventure! Set against the backdrop of California’s stunning wine country, this journey was a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and, of course, wine indulgence. Buckle up as we rewind the clock and revisit the itinerary that shaped our wine-fueled escapade. Can you tell I like #wine? This is different than our other blog posts as it’s more of an itinerary for you, should you want to go to Wine Country yourself! #FromTheArchives

Thurs., Jan. 17th: A Tantalizing Start

🛬 Arrival in SFO: Stepping into the heart of our adventure, San Francisco welcomed us.

🚗 To my aunt and uncle’s: Heading to our abode for the trip at my aunt and uncle’s San Francisco home.

🍴 Lunch at Pier 39: Treating ourselves to some delicious bites at Pier 39, fueling up for the Alcatraz Night Tour.

🏛️ Alcatraz Night Tour: A captivating journey through history, exploring Alcatraz under the night sky – an experience to remember. (Though ours was canceled because the waters were too rough for the ferry.)

🕖 8:00 PM: Ready to relish a local dinner.

Friday, Jan 18th: Savoring Napa Valley’s Finest

🕗 8:30 AM: Breakfast and on the road from San Francisco by 9:30 AM – the anticipation is real!

🚶 11:00 AM: Embarking on a tour at Jordan Vineyards – a perfect start to our wine journey.

🍷 Sterling Vineyards: Uncorking pleasures at Sterling Vineyards, enjoying the vineyard views and sipping on fine wines.

🍇 Markham: Savoring the flavors of Markham, adding another gem to our wine-tasting experience.

🏰 Beringer Castle: Exploring the historic Beringer Castle, where history and wine intertwine.

🍷 Beaulieu (BV): Skipping if time runs thin – flexible yet eager for each sip!

🍴 2:00 PM: A pit stop at Rutherford Grill for some scrumptious cornbread and ostrich.

🍰 Cakebread: Delighting in the richness of Cakebread’s offerings – a sweet treat for our palates.

🍇 Robert Mondavi: Soaking in the experience at Robert Mondavi, cherishing every sip.

🥂 Gloria Ferrer: Last call at Gloria Ferrer, embracing the effervescence before moving on.

🕖 7:00 PM: A warm evening at Larry & Eve’s – good company and shared laughter.

Saturday, Jan 19th: Exploring Sonoma’s Wine Delights

🚗 Leaving San Francisco: Heading to Renaissance Lodge and Resort in Sonoma, excitement building up.

🍷 Winter Wine Road: Picking up tickets at Wilson Winery – a promise of more wine adventures.

🚗 Driving North: Venturing deeper into the wine country, ready to uncork new experiences.

🍷 Pezzi King, Quivira, Michel-Schlumberger, Bella, Raymond Burr: A whirlwind of tastings, each sip revealing unique stories. Pedroncelli, Francis Ford Coppola: A medley of flavors and aromas, shared in the company of stunning landscapes.

🚗 Kendall Jackson: Taking 101 South to Kendall Jackson – a familiar yet cherished name.

🕖 Back to Renaissance Lodge: A retreat to our cozy haven, reflecting on the day’s wine explorations.

🍴 Dinner: My aunt’s suggestion led us to a Mexican restaurant on Sonoma’s lively square.

Sunday, Jan 20th: A Sunday of Wine

🍞 Breakfast: Fueling up with breakfast delights and stocking up on picnic essentials.

🕚 11:00 AM: Kicking off the day’s wine trail with Clos de Bois – a great way to start!

🍷 Stonestreet, White Oak, Alexander Valley, Simi: A symphony of flavors and experiences.

🍴 Lunch: Relishing delicious take-out sandwiches from Oakville Grocery – perfect sustenance.

🚗 Back on 101 South: Continuing our journey southward, ready for more wine rendezvous.

🍷 La Crema, Harvest Moon, Siduri: A palette of diverse wines, each telling its own tale.

🕚 Back to the Lodge: Returning to our home away from home, memories etched in every sip.

Monday, Jan 21st: Last Day in Wine Country

🛎️ Checking Out: Bid adieu to our comfortable haven, ready to conclude our wine saga.

🍇 Benziger: Venturing into the world of organic wines at Benziger, a perfect end to our wine journey.

🚗 Back to San Francisco: Heading back to the city, savoring the last moments of our wine escapade.

🕕 6:00 PM: A refreshing stop at my aunt and uncle’s to freshen up for dinner.

🍽️ 8:00 PM: Dinner reservations at the renowned Slanted Door – a fitting farewell feast.

Tuesday, Jan 22nd: A Heartfelt Adieu

☀️ 7:30 AM: A morning wake-up call and the bittersweet task of packing up memories.

🚗 9:00 AM: Heading to the airport, heart full of cherished moments and new experiences.

Our first couple’s trip in 2008 was a whirlwind of laughter, exploration, and unforgettable wine moments. The vineyards of Napa and Sonoma not only treated our palates but also etched cherished memories into our hearts. As we fast forward to the present, these wine-soaked days remain a testament to the beauty of discovery and shared experiences – a journey that continues to enrich our lives. We enjoyed every one of these places and signed up for more wine clubs than we should have 🫣 But all worth it! #WineAdventures #MemoriesUncorked