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California Wine

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Taking a tour of the California wine country is like stepping into heaven. The air is filled with a particular scent that keeps me in mind of the richness of the land. The endless acres of grape vines that undulate over graceful slopes makes me want to just sit and stare. On a sunny morning when the dew has not quite lifted, it's magical and the sunsets are beyond description. It's not a wonder that such a paradise produces some of the best wine in the world.

A person can wing it, go solo and travel from vineyard to vineyard on their own, but the recommended approach is through an established wine tour operator. Trafalgar is one of the most respected tour companies with one of the best travel agendas through Napa and Sonoma Valley that anyone could wish for. You might think that being towed along on a huge bus with forty other people isn't your cup of tea or - your glass of wine, but it's …show more content…

Here you get to test your palette for fine wine by making your own. You taste the vineyards specialties, but also create your very own bottle. As a guest, you are presented with three varietals; a Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, and perhaps a Carménère to combine using your own desired percentages to make a personal blend. It's a fun exercise and for some, a bit challenging. You walk away with a bottle of wine you personally created and believe me, a deeper respect for the vintner.

Next stop Domaine Carneros. This vineyard specializes in sparkling wines. It is an elegant chateau surrounded by acres of rows of vines. Here a winemaker will take you, through a brief course how wine is made. There is a science and an art to getting the perfect blend, and the secret to a good wine is knowing how to pair these two aspects seamlessly. The presentation is engaging and you might find yourself hanging on every word, as you learn more about soil structure, climate importance and storage techniques. Then of course, you get to

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