Napa

I’m back! Sorry about the infrequent blog posts this week, but other than tweeting like crazy, I managed to do a pretty good job of unplugging while in California. We got back early this morning, and I am likely sleeping while this publishes. All I know for sure is that I want to go back. Now. Let’s just say there were lots of tears before takeoff.

I have so many photos, we ate so much good food, spent time with awesome people, and we visited so many great wineries. I hope you are all up for a good dose of California mixed in with the Spring Health Challenge!

Our very first full day in Napa was the day of the Napa Marathon. Even though I was still recovering from the flu and feeling the knee injuries, I wondered if I would feel a little guilty about deciding not to run the marathon. It turns out it was pouring when the gun went off, I was in a cozy bed, and I didn’t care. Instead of running, I went wine tasting.

After being too jetlagged to see a friend who lives in Napa Saturday night, we made it a priority to visit her at work as our first wine tasting stop.

Thus we found ourselves pulling up the driveway of Rubicon Estate. Located in Rutherford in Napa Valley, Rubicon is a sprawling and majestic property both in the natural and architectural senses. Currently owned by Francis Ford Coppola, who you may know as director, writer, and producer of the Godfather, among many others, Rubicon carries with it a rich history that dates back to the late-1800’s when Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum founded the original Inglenook property.

No small detail is overlooked at Rubicon, from the landscaping to the wines.

After snapping a few shots, we headed inside to find our friend, who was working in the tasting room. More on the tasting later, when I unpack and can find my notes  

After our tasting, we took a little wander around the property, which is nothing short of magical, especially when decorated with a heavy fog.

Farmed organically, the vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Mr. Coppola’s home is at the back of the property, hidden far from the road.

We finished our tour by visiting the museum right inside the door of the Rubicon chateau building. The museum showcases pieces from throughout the history of the winery, from Gustave Niebaum to the current owners, the Coppola family. It was amazing how accessible to the public all of the items were; one could easily walk in and browse the museum without paying for a tour or tasting.

Rubicon Estate is certainly one of those wow-factor wineries, a great stop for history and movie buffs or for anyone who appreciates beautiful architecture, art, and of course beautiful, high-end wines.

It was the perfect place to kick off our first day wine tasting in Napa Valley while also catching up with a friend and getting some great recommendations for the rest of the day.

Have you seen any of Francis Ford Coppola’s movies? What is the best movie you have seen recently?