Winemakers of Distinction
Russian River Valley Itinerary

TRAVEL - April 28, 2009

Experience first-hand the accomplishments of two, pioneering, women winemakers. You needn't travel far from the madding crowd to enjoy the fruits of their pioneering efforts. This journey has you exploring the Russian River Valley AVA during the day and enjoying the tiny forest town of Occidental at night.

Work your way to CA Route 116 to Merry Edwards Winery which is located between Frei and Occidental Roads. (Note: it's easy to miss her sign as we did when heading south on 116, so if you reach Occidental Road, turn back.) Happily, the tasting room is now open 7 days per week for walk-in visitors. Complimentary private tastings are also available by appointment on Monday through Saturday. You'll find no frills here, just a tidy, friendly setting with great Pinots! We tasted six delicate, refined Pinots along with a remarkable Chardonnay that was not over-oaked. Ms. Edwards' list of accolades is legion and we left understanding why. Don't miss this stop.

From there, head north on CA 116 and turn left on Graton Road. Pass through the little town of Graton and time permitting stop at Underwood Bar and Bistro for a light lunch and, in summertime, a game of bocce.

A few miles down the road, high on a ridge, outdoor sculptures of three giant dogs mark the entrance to Marimar Estate Vineyards & Winery. Marimar Torres is a 21st Century renaissance woman. Born in Barcelona to a storied Spanish winemaking family, she is the owner and winemaker of this Sonoma estate, speaks 6 languages, and author of two cookbooks. We experienced her award winning Pinots and Chardonnays together with tapas from her cookbook. The Spanish decor and family ambiance made us feel like guests in her private hacienda. A limited group of Club members are invited to join Ms. Torres on a trip to her family's estate in Spain's Catalan wine country!

To finish the day continue west on Graton Road through redwood forests to its end, then south on the Bohemian Highway to the thimble-sized town of Occidental. Book into the small Inn at Occidental. Gourmet breakfasts, down beds, fireplaces, evening wine tastings, and more await you. Eh Bien! A new French bistro in town is within walking distance: Bistro Des Copains. Co-owner, Michel Augsburger, brought to Occidental his lifelong passion for the South of France. The fare is authentic, the wine list is filled with reasonably priced local and French wines, and the friendship implicit in its name is in full evidence.

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