Napa Valley Wine Tour

Our school put on a tour of the Napa Valley this past Saturday for 40 students - FREE -! It was a great day into the lovely countryside and a nice break from the City.

We went to the Robert Mondavi vineyard for a tasting, tour of the grounds and private tour of the cellars where they hold the huge 2 story 5,000 gallon barrels and the secondary cellar where the 60 gallon barrels are held. It was definitely a VIP tour.

Then we went to the Franciscan vineyards where they set up lunch tables for us outside in a private dining area "al fresco" under the shade of trees. We also indulged in a little Italian Bocchi Ball! Cue Brando and Al Pacino to enter the set. It was really perfect. The weather was balmy with blue skies and a slight warm breeze, so appreciated from the low clouds and chilling breezes of the City we left behind as we crossed the Golden Gate.

After a lunch provided by the CCA we headed into Franciscan's private tasting room which was really beautiful. It reminded me of a large mansions library with sliding ladders on both sides of a large rectangle wood room except in place of books there were wine bottles stack on their sides. It made for a memorable event. The subdued lighting on certain bottles was inviting and the Riedel crystal glasses set on the tables was stunning in the light. I only wish I brought my camera in there!

To add to the special treatment, we all got some heavy discounts on anything we bought in the shops. I bought some good wine at a big saving - so don't fret mum, I hope you enjoyed it!

We tasted everything they gave us like the good sports we were. In the end, it was quiet ride

back to San Fran with 80% of the students meditating. At least it looked like they were meditating. I soaked up the gorgeous views wondering once again why I don't live up there. A nice day indeed.