Sonoma Wineries:
Kenwood
Vineyards and Benzinger Family Winery
Kenwood Vineyards owns the lava-terraced vineyards on the London ranch. Their Cabernets, Zinfandel and Merlots are beloved for their minty, zesty, berry flavors. On their dramatic label is a replica of the wolf's head depicted on London’s bookplates.
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel grapes are the stars of the Sonoma Valley appellation, with the mighty Cabs growing in the steady sunlight above the fog line, and while other varieties are sheltered below, thriving in long growing seasons at lower temperatures.
On the road to the State Park, Benziger Family Winery is situated
in a vast volcanic bowl of sun-catching, terraced vineyards. Twenty-one
types of soil have been identified on this property, which is particularly
well suited to Cabernet grapes. Explore the demonstration vineyards
here, hop on the open-air tram for a narrated ride through the
vineyards and spend time in the art galley. Picnic grounds are
lovely, beneath a canopy of oaks.
In Glen Ellen, the Jack London Bookstore and Research Center has,
for decades, held forth in a ramshackle building crowded with London
memorabilia and old books. When the shop is closed, choose your
books from the bookshelves outside under the overhang and leave
your money in the box.
Continue the Valley of the Moon Winery Tour: Valley of the Moon Winery »
The article on this page is adapted from the book, Backroads of the California Wine Country by Karen Misuraca (www.karenmisuraca.com), published by Voyageur Press.
Photo Credit: The pictures on this page are by Lisa Moore. www.studioponderosa.com