Serenity in Sonoma
Russian River Itinerary

December 5, 2008

So you've seen three midnights in the office and it's only Wednesday! Do daily pressures scream at you to get away, to revitalize? Try rejuvenating mind and spirit in the Russian River region of Sonoma County. Discover beauty, simplicity and peace of mind; not to mention great Pinots!

Like the river that gives the region its name, this itinerary meanders through towering redwoods and fog-cooled vineyards. It ends at sundown on the Pacific. When exploring wine country, pace is critical; haste is serenity's enemy. Try taking the back roads; driving below the speed limit; pulling over to let those in a hurry pass.

Take up accommodations at The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant in Forestville, which epitomizes a Russian River experience. Melt away tensions with an in-cottage sauna, then indulge with a spa treatment before relaxing in front of your own wood-burning fireplace. Eat breakfasts and at least one dinner in the casual, family-style setting of the main house. Chef Steve Litke's creations have earned the Farmhouse a Michelin star and a 27 Zagat rating for food. Look to Master Sommelier and Wine Director Geoff Kruth for a special wine pairing.

Swing over to West Side Road and head north along this oak covered trail, flanked by dozens of wineries. Stop and enjoy those that strike your fancy, but save time for Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery. If a monk were designing a modern day monastery, he might look no further than the simple, rustic lines of this winery. Built on a high ridge overlooking the Russian River, the panoramic view from the tasting room is second to none.

Next, head north and sample pinot noir from some of the most sought after terrior in the area: Rochioli Vineyards and Winery. If you like it, get in line. The last time we checked the wine club waiting list was up to 5 years! Need we say more? This modest and friendly tasting room is all about wine not pizzazz.

The final tasting we suggest for this itinerary is Seghesio Family Vineyards on Grove Street in Healdsburg. Take time to sip the family's acclaimed Zinfandel and relax over a game of Bocce in the wonderfully shaded picnic grounds.

After a day in the vines, take the East Side Road back to the River Road and drive west to the ocean through giant redwoods where light beams fight through the dense canopy. Although not as famous as its Monterey cousin, the Sonoma Pacific coastline is equally dramatic. A worthy destination is River's End Restaurant and Inn. Time a dinner for sunset (reservations are a must) and order the clouds away. Views of kayakers, beachcombers, surfers, cyclists and of course sunsets complement the better than good food put out by chef David Dahlquist as well as excellent wine selections and microbrewery beer offerings on tap.

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