If you’re planning an Anderson Valley trip of your own this fall, here’s what to know before you go.
What to Pack
If complimentary tastings at eight of Anderson Valley’s local wineries sounds up your alley, scoop up a Covet Pass, a first-of-its-kind wine pass that grants you exclusive access to free tastings at not only Anderson Valley wineries, but also select destinations throughout Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Lake County and Valle de Guadalupe. With the average wine tasting now costing around $30 (and higher in some areas), the $150 pass pays for itself fast and comes with some additional perks for wine fans, too.
Where to Stop & What to Sip
Use that Covet Pass to sample the aromatic whites and silky, complex Pinot Noirs served up by the friendly faces of Philo’s Toulouse Vineyards, or take in the surrounding stellar views over a glass of Hungarian oak-aged Pinot. While in town, pop over to Weatherborne Wine Corp., one of the region’s newest wineries, and sample fine wines in an old redwood mill in downtown Philo.
In nearby Boonville, family-owned and -operated Foursight Wines crafts small-batch Pinot Noir, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, while Scharffenberger Cellars has something special in store for bubble lovers. The Mendocino County sparkling winemaker is known for its experimentation with different dosage levels, and guests can work their way through an educational flight of sparkling wines amidst a lush garden setting.
Where to Stay
After an afternoon or evening spent sipping and sampling your way through Anderson Valley’s top wine destinations, lay your head down at one of many lodging options located throughout the region. Wake up winery-side at The Craftsman Cottage or with a view of the vineyard at the Airstream Aerie, both located in the grounds of the Lichen Estate.
Or, try the super pet-friendly Sheep Dung Cottages with their panoramic valley views if you brought Fido along for the ride. If you’d prefer more luxurious accommodations, consider a stay at The Madrones, an Italian-inspired villa outside Philo tucked between sun-drenched vineyards and the surrounding redwood forest.
How to Tote Wine Home
FlyWithWine has an innovative solution to the age-old question: how do you safely fly with wine? Nothing sours a sensational vacation quite like red wine spilling or broken glass shattering in your suitcase, but FlyWithWine’s custom suitcases and other wine-toting accessories help ensure your favorite varieties make their way home in one piece. One of our favorite accessories is the Gabriel Glass, a one-for-all designed glass made of exceptional quality.
When to Plan Another Visit
Already planning your next visit to Anderson Valley? Join Roederer Estate, Domaine Anderson, Seawolf Wines, Bee Hunter Wine and other local winemakers for the Harvest Tidrick Celebration. Slated for Friday, Oct. 21 through Sunday, Oct 23, the event features fine food and wine from throughout the region and spotlights Boontling, the elaborate local jargon from the late 1800s/early 1900s, as well as the rest of the area’s rich history.
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