just a few stops...

[Jackie]

Viansa is a great place to make a stop & shop and eat. It is one of the closest wineries to the city. You can be there in about 30 minutes from San Francisco. Just take the 101 north to Marin County, cut over onto the 37 east, then take the 121 north. It's not just a tasting room -- it's also an Italian market with lots of specialty food items. There's a deli to order coffees and lunch -- hot or cold. The outdoor tables overlook vineyards. The wine is nice. Viansa was built by one of the Sebastiani brothers. I recently took some friends from Australia there and it was their favorite stop of our two-day trip. (See their website at www.Viansa.com)

We also really enjoyed visiting the new Gary Farrell Wines in the Russian River Valley -- nearer to Healdsburg. We made reservations for a tour and it was definitely a highlight. We were served local cheeses to taste with the wines, all of which are gorgeous, especially the Pinots. This is a beautiful, new winery with wonderful views, great wine and an ambiance you will long remember. (See garyfarrellwines.com)

We stayed in Healdsburg overnight and had dinner at ZIN, a restaurant where all the menu items are keyed to pair with Zinfandel wines. Very nice food and fun atmosphere.

If you like Zin, I would also recommend a stop at Limerick Lane Winery in Healdsburg.

Have a great trip. Let us know where you go.

Cheers!

Jackie