Strawberries, Cherries, and an Angel's Kiss in Spring

Over the weekend, we visited a 55 acre winery in our state that has only been in operation for about five years.  I have been wanting to try it for a while, especially since I had originally told my daughter and her boyfriend about it, and they managed to get themselves engaged there.  Despite our visit being the conclusion of (what felt like) 40 days and 40 nights of rain, we still had a fantastic time and I was able to get a few shots in the 30 dry minutes we had that day.

We entered the property and were surprised by the California-style entry with the vineyard sign overheard.  We drove past some vineyards and buildings that housed a marketplace, bistro, and villas where you can stay overnight in luxury suites.

Our destination was the wine tasting bar and restaurant.  We entered a two-story building, had a seat at the bar, and looked over the tasting menu.  We decided on their 'tour' of six whites and reds.  Our bartender/wine server was drop-dead gorgeous.  Think a very refined and polished Adam Levine as a Calvin Klein model.  When the guy turned his back to us to get our wineglasses, I just looked at my husband and he laughed and said, "Happy Birthday to YOU!"  No doubt!

Well, let it be said by me, once again, that you can't make a good red this side of the Mississippi.  No body whatsoever.  But the whites were good, and I actually liked one of them a lot.  They also sell some select wines from Italy made exclusively for the vineyard, where the winemaker immigrated from.  I will say that they gave substantial pours for a tasting.  Thank you!

Next, we were off for the 45 minute tour with about ten others.  The guide was a former teacher and she made the tour both interesting and informative.  My favorite part of a winery tour is always the barrel room, so this tour did not disappoint.

 

By this time, we were hungry, so we headed upstairs to the more informal restaurant on the grounds.  We started out with their formmagio and crostini plate and then ordered a few pastina (orzo) bowls.  I had the summer garden vegetable and my husband had the spicy beef short rib one.  Everything was delicious.  Plus, we tried some wines off of the tasting menu. 

 

It was time to walk off the food and wine, and we were fortunate to have a short break in the rain. 

 



Vineyard

Wedding Location (couldn't get close because they were setting up for an evening wedding)

 

More of the lake and villa suites

Patio

I hope to come back in the summer and enjoy the outdoor seating

Chandelier made from wine bottles in restaurant

Last December, this area was decorated with Christmas trees and was all lit up at night.  My future son-in-law proposed here (as told to me by my daughter)


After some shopping in the Marketplace, we headed home.  A very enjoyable day!