I will never roll my eyes again when someone describes Sonoma and Napa Valley as “magical.” I wouldn’t even use the word “magical” to describe a magic show, so I probably will still roll my eyes, but I will secretly agree. We weren’t even planning to venture north of San Francisco, but we couldn’t get tickets for Alcatraz until July 7, so we decided to spent a night in wine country. (Yes, “wine country” is now part of my vocabulary.) I didn’t really expect anything spectacular. I knew it would be pretty, but I didn’t know vineyards could be so scenic. As we drove along, there were vineyards as far as we could see on all sides surrounded by mountainous looking hills. Every mile or so, there were great little places to stop and try cheese, olive oil, wine, bread – you know, the four major food groups. This place was gorgeous, the air smelled fresh and delicious, and it just felt good…and, yes, magical.
The Fremont Diner in Sonoma serving up juicy burgers and spicy-sweet barbecue sandwiches – a must stop on the way to Napa.
Castello di Amorosa – this place is a castle and winery that isn’t that old but was built in the same manor as castles in Europe and has many materials that were brought over from Italy. We only had time for one winery and tour, and we were both very happy with our choice. This place works for people who don’t like wine but enjoy castles and history (and chickens).
If anyone knows where to buy a candle that smells like wine barrels in the cellar, please let me know!!
almost a photographer 
What a fantastic place!
I really loved this entire trip!
This might be one of my favorite places I’ve been to so far in life!