trip to california

[Innkeeper]

In Paso Robles start with Tobin James, for great wine, knowledgeable staff, and a taste of the Wild West. Heading back to town is EOS which has lovely wine and a fabulous tasting room. Next is Eberle. Also great wine, and be sure to tour the caves they have carved out for aging wine and other activity. Back in town, have lunch at Cahoots. Head southwest and stop at Peachy Canyon where you can decide which of six different zins at almost the same price you like best. Then there is the Bonny Doon tasting room where you can try the wines, buy herbs, and pet the goats. Since you are almost in Templeton, go to McFees for dinner. Get a free wine map from www.pasowine.com or e-mail at info@pasowine.com.

In Temecula my favorite stop is Mount Polomar Winery. Just popped their '97 Meritage last night; wonderful. Nice cheese and crackers in the gift shop to bring back to your room. Stop at Callaway for an interesting tour, and a taste of wines you can actually buy elsewhere. Hart Winery is another good stop. Look for chenin blanc in the valley. They do very well with it there. It is usually off dry like off dry Vouvrays. Recently quaffed a CB from Maurice Car'rie Winery that had RS to the tune of 85 gr/100 litters. They will send a free map from their site at www.temeculawines.org.