Tag: wine trail

If you don’t already know this, it’s time you do: The beautiful state of Kentucky is home to America’s first successful commercial vineyard and winery. In the early 1800s, when the Spanish missionaries were establishing religious outposts in California, a Swiss native by the name of John James Dufour was determined to create a Swiss colony complete with a commercial vineyard, just about 25 miles from Lexington. The official year was 1798, more than 50 years before Stephen Foster composed the legendary song, "My Old Kentucky Home."

The Tri-Cities is located in the heart of Washington wine country in the center of the Pacific Northwest, about a three and one-half hour drive from Seattle and Portland. In fact, 99 percent of Washington's vineyards are within a 90 minute drive from the Tri-Cities, making it a mecca for wine, food and new things to do. However, Tri-Cities has amazing family-friendly activities to experience, here are just a few.

On the western shore of California’s massive Clear Lake, a magnificent 4,300-foot volcano casts a majestic presence against the sky. Its core samples tell us it began to form 480,000 years ago as part of a volcanic field that experienced serious eruptions until around 38,000 B.C. When the first humans—tribal members of the Pomo Nation—settled nearby, they named it Mount Konocti, roughly translated to "Mountain Woman." Through the centuries, Mount Konocti has been a source of spiritual inspiration, legends, and wonder.

Located just minutes from downtown Napa, the Wine Train, and Oxbow Public Market, The Westin Verasa Napa provides an exquisite oasis to wine tourists eager to explore the Napa Valley. The sleek, contemporary lobby, decorated in vineyard hues, is the first signal to guests that they are in for a treat.

The bustling Bank Café and Bar, situated several strides from the front desk, is a welcome sight for many new arrivals. Some pause there, but many are anxious to see what their guest room has in store. The Westin Verasa Napa provides 180 suites and traditional rooms built for comfort and convenience.

Stretching from the coast of Monterey Bay down into the Salinas Valley, Monterey wine country is home to more than 85 vintners and growers.

This striking wine country offers anything you could ask for in a wine touring experience from chic tourist destinations to unassuming farming towns. For starters, consider these three perfect tour days: