Best to do the Wine Tasting AFTER the Painting…

Only by luck, did we land in Alexander Valley – an iconic valley full of vineyards in Sonoma county. We camped right on the Russian River off a road with over 30 vineyards. I was able to get in a field study of the river early in the morning before we headed out to Coppola Vineyard.

We took a tour and learned a bit about mechanics of making and bottling wine that included tasting 5 different wines. Now those of you who know me, know it doesn’t take much to get me drunk – about 2 of those 5 tastings did the job! In defense, Dave & Rebecca insisted that we eat at the restaurant to help sober me up. What a trial – great food served on an a patio where we could enjoy the view of the vineyard and valley beyond!

A quick nap helped revived me to paint the Skyker Vineyard and the valley that was a couple miles down the road. I don’t know if it was the high winds or residue from the wine tasting, but 3 hours flew by quickly as I worked on a 16 x 12″ canvas. Workers were pruning vines across the street and stopped to chat but my Spanish was a little rusty. Another great day to paint, photograph and explore!