In three days we visited 10 different wineries. Being pregnant I didn't partake in the tasting, but the views were stunning. It was so relaxing to spend time outdoors in beautiful weather and scenery with John. I know he enjoyed all the wine tasting and he had a designated driver so he didn't have to limit his tastings. :) It was pretty neat to visit the vineyards of some of our "house wines" that we always have on hand in our wine fridge.
Our first day of tastings began on Friday. We visited four wineries. One we hadn't heard of and three we were fans of.
Artesa Winery and Vineyards - Suggested by a friend to visit.
The building is actually on the top of the hill built into the landscape.
Artesa Winery and Vineyards
Artesa Winery and Vineyards
John's first tasting. Happy guy!
Artesa Winery and Vineyards
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
My Dad used to serve this wine when my Grandma used to come visit and she loved it. This was a little tribute to her. Love and miss you Gee-ga!
Gundlach Bundschu
I have quite a few pictures of John like this throughout the weekend!
Gundlach Bundschu
We had quite a few cheese plates for lunch while we explored.
Yum!
Gundlach Bundschu Barrel Cave
Views from Gloria Ferrer
One of my favorite affordable sparkling wines
Gloria Ferrer
Drooling over the tasting menu
Gloria Ferrer
I wish I could drink you!
The drive into Cline Cellars.
Loved all the pumpkins!
Cline Cellars
One of John's favorites!
All of the guests were invited to join the wedding party and families for a Texas Style Rehearsal Dinner. It was held at Nicholson Ranch and Winery. It was a beautiful spot! The BBQ brisket and chicken, country band, and Texas decor was great!
Nicholson Ranch and Winery
Nicholson Ranch and Winery
John in the vines
Nicholson Ranch and Winery
Nicholson Ranch and Winery
Brandi and I
Nicholson Ranch and Winery
Great great friends of 20 years, Brandi and Brooke.
On Saturday we drove out of Sonoma to Napa Valley. We visited one of our favorite wineries Freemark Abbey. We then went on to another winery that was recommended by a friend but we didn't care for. It was called V. Sattui. I didn't even take any pictures there! We also took a scenic drive through the mountains to enjoy the views. Gorgeous!
Freemark Abbey
Freemark Abbey
Freemark Abbey
Cabernet Comparison Tasting
Freemark Abbey
He was really enjoying this wine.
Freemark Abbey
I was NOT enjoying my water.
I was a little jealous at this one.
Mountain Drive
On Saturday night Ben and Katie said "I do" at Viansa winery. The scenery was gorgeous. The food was good. The company was great. It was such a fun night!
Viansa Winery
Gorgeous wedding flowers
Viansa Winery
Ceremony Location - The Chuppah
The groom Ben with his Mom and Dad
The Bride Katie walking in with her Dad
Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Ben Olson!
Brandi and Alberto
Viansa Wine Caves
My bestie - Brandi
Viansa Wine Cave
Brooke and I
The Cake
Ben and Katie dancing the Hora to Hava Nagila
Dave and Debbie during the Hora
They had a fire pit outside so we could make s'mores in the cold weather!
My Love!
On Sunday we met up with Dave, Debbie, Brandi, Alberto, Brooke, Allen, Ken, and Leo to go enjoy some wine tastings. We had such a great day with them. Lots and lots of laughter! This is my second family so I cherish every moment we get to spend together. Love you Olsons!
Chateau St. Jean
The Girls
Chateau St. Jean
Brandi and Alberto
Chateau St. Jean
John and I
Chateau St. Jean
Brooke and Allen
Chateau St. Jean
John, Leo, and Alberto
Chateau St. Jean
Wine Tasting - The Reserve Room
Kunde Winery
Brooke and I
Kunde Winery
God didn't give me sisters but he blessed me with these two. Love you girls!
Kunde Winery
Debs and Dave
Kunde Winery
The group
On Monday morning we packed up and headed home to our sweet kiddos. Thanks to George and Bianca for watching George and Clara while we enjoyed this wonderful trip! I can't wait to go back when I am not pregnant! :)
