Taste of Harvest - Spotlight Calistoga

This is GO TIME for wine regions all over the world, at least for those located in the northern hemisphere anyway. Vineyard and winemaking crews are working day and night, playing beat the clock with mother nature, waiting anxiously to pick grapes at just the peak of ripeness and rushing them to the crush pad to begin the transformation from grape to wine. There is no doubt harvest is the most exciting season in wine country and the reason why visitors flock to the most famous regions this time of year., again and again.

As far as the weather goes, the mornings can be brisk, but as the sun pops up sharing its rays of warmth, the afternoons can be as just hot as any summer day. Then as the sun sinks slowly into the horizon, a coolness drifts over the valley making the perfect conditions for growing the best grapes around. Long cool nights are also a perfect excuse to get out and book a dining experience under the stars, savoring the bold flavors of the fall season. Then retreat to your bungalow to cozy up fireside with a glass full of your favorite wine, a trophy for all that hard work from today's wine tasting adventures. 

Fall is the time to slow down a little, enjoy a leisurely-paced morning. Perhaps starting with a long soak in a hot tub or better yet in natural mineral rich hot springs water conveniently located right in downtown Calistoga, no doubt, one of my favorite hot springs destination near wine country. Located at the base of Mount St. Helena, the crown of the Napa Valley, this little town is jammed-packed with unique boutiques and delicious restaurants, like the French bistro Evangaline.  Their Gumbo Ya-Ya is to die for and is exactly what a cool fall night calls for. Be sure to pair this with a Petit Sirah for an other-worldly experience.

While there is much to love about this darling town, it is the geothermal waters that the area is most known for.  You can visit the famous Old Faithful Geyser, book at tour to learn about the region’s volcanic history. In town, spa resorts line the streets making it easy to find a place to relax and rejuvenate. Indian Springs Resort is the largest and oldest resort spa in Calistoga, dating back to 1861.  This idyllic destination has beautifully maintained its historic architecture and is walking distance to downtown as well and being home to Sam’s Social Club , a favorite brunch spot with locals and visitors alike.

I also love the recently renovated Brannan Cottage Inn, a delightful historic landmark boutique hotel. The rooms are individual private cottages, beautifully decorated and a great place for a little work-cation.  Plus, Sam's General Store (on property) serves up impossibly fresh pastries and fantastic coffee each morning.  Bonus, you can order custom picnic baskets loaded with all the fixin's for a memorable lunch at a winery estate, a local park or venture off the beaten path to Lake Hennessey located just few minuets outside the nearby town of St. Helena and take in the breathtaking water views.

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