Top Five "Real" Wine Country Secrets in Napa Valley and Sonoma from the romance novel, Just a Kiss

#5: Free public art.  Just pull over (carefully) and stop the car. How many times did I drive past this huge sculpture in Napa and not stop for a picture?

Except for what happens in private homes, behind closed doors, between people who would never, ever, invite me to a party again, if I told you what really goes down, there are no "real" secrets in Wine Country.

Most of what I used in Just a Kiss and the novel I'm working on now, Napa Crush, came from paying close attention to my surroundings.

I'll bet there are a few wonderful areas in your hometown that you take for granted and don't visit often enough.  Heck, there are probably a few people who would like to see more of you.

So, with that teeny disclaimer out of the way, let me share some hidden gems that are not really secrets at all...

#4 Ravenswood Vineyard Hike

This adorable, little plaque is partially hidden under ivy around the entrance of Ravenswood Vineyards in Sonoma Valley.  There is a pretty hike next to the winery. Park in the lot marked for Ravenswood visitors and continue foot on the same paved road. There's lots of shade, but also direct sun for much of the route. 

Hike with a companion, wear a hat and go when the temperature is cool. Early morning or later in the day is your best bet. (If you venture off of the paved road and onto the surrounding vineyard paths, do so with a guide. The trails can be confusing.)

It's an easy stroll along the primarily flat terrain.  When you get tired, turn around and head back to your car, but stop in the winery first for a celebratory glass of wine.

#3: Find a firepit for night sipping. Temperatures can drop at night.

 
In my Single Girls Wine Club series, the women get together for regular “Chill Hours.” In the summer, they meet around the villa’s pool to drink wine and talk about their day.

In the winter, they gather around a fire pit that looks a lot like this.

Temperatures in Napa Valley and Sonoma can vary wildly from day to evening.  Pack a sweater or a jacket.  Seek out a restaurant with a fire pit a night time.

If you're a big planner, schedule your trip around a full moon! (Hey, Jack London didn't call Sonoma, "The Valley of the Moon," for nothing...)  Unrelated: My friend Cindy has the prettiest feet and the best shoes…

#2: Free music at the wineries and more art! Is it a coincidence that one of my characters is a San Francisco disc jockey?  No, I think not...:-)

Although this is a photo of the Markham Vineyards gallery, it's a reminder to check the music calendar around wine country before you head out for the day.

There are exceptional concerts in the vineyards throughout the summer months, but there are also small bands playing at many wineries on the weekends for free. If you're going wine tasting, why not pick a place where they have a band so you can sip in time.

(Shameless Plug: I used to be a disc jockey on the radio in San Francisco. Juliet St. John one of the Single Girls Wine Club characters is a San Francisco disc jockey. Juliet will star in book #3 of the series.)

#1 Sonoma Plaza. Downtown Sonoma. Check out the Tuesday night farmers market

In Just a Kiss, the main character Sarah Dupont moves from San Francisco to Sonoma Valley.  She opens a cafe on the Sonoma Plaza and trains actor Jamie Santino how to bake for an upcoming movie role.  This is where the "fun" begins in the story.  

In "real" life, there is usually something happening on The Plaza. In the summer, Tuesday night farmers markets often feature a band.  You'll find restaurants and shops across the street, surrounding the plaza, and a "Wine Alley" featuring tastes from a variety of local wineries conveniently located in one place.

To learn more about me, visit my website here.

To buy my Wine Country Romance novel Just a Kiss, go to Amazon here.

If you're planning a visit to Sonoma Valley, check out The Sonoma Visitors Bureau calendar here.

Until next time,

0x-Kate