CA Trip: Napa Valley Day 2

Second day in Napa Valley…

We started the day out with a visit at the fruit stand near the Silverado Trail. I've never had strawberries here in Hawaii that were as flavorful and luscious. Costco strawberries just can't compare...

First winery of the day was at Joseph Phelps. Absolutely breathtaking views and serene surroundings. Not busy at all and the staff were very friendly. They invited us to walk around and take pictures even though we didn't have an appointment.   

Maria posing for a picture with a wine tasting from a $200 bottle of red wine. 

Next stop was to the Sterling Vineyards winery. To get to the winery itself, you have to take an aerial tram to the top. Here I am, taking deep breaths in and out while hanging on for dear life. 

We met Garrett there and he recommended some places for us to go afterwards. We decided to follow his advice and they were awesome choices. So glad to get a 'local' perspective of where to visit.

Next stop was to Provenance, a much smaller, intimate winery than Sterling. Passed a lovely hour chatting with the employees. 

Beautiful door (BTW, I love door and arch pics!) picture from Provenance. Lovely composition, color, struck a great pose. Only thing…my eyes are closed! Treslyn you are fired as our photographer! 

Here we are at La Luna Market and Taqueria in Rutherford getting lunch. Garrett recommended the place, and we were so GRATEFUL. Best Mexican hole-in-the-wall place in Napa Valley! 

I had the Torta sandwich, Maria had the tacos with beans and rice, and Treslyn had a burrito. I also had a pepper and onion relish while Maria had the Habanero relish. Wooooeeee, that was some hot stuff! Blew my mouth up, but in a good way. 

Next stop was at Rubicon Estate. It had a very Old World feel to it.

Great shot of Maria and I at the expresso bar. Ok, Treslyn's redeemed herself with this shot.

We decided to go to Grace's Table for dinner that evening instead of Ubuntu's. Garrett also recommended this place. The food was tasty, flavorful, and there was plenty of it.  So glad we came here!

We finished the evening with a Strawberry/Rhubarb crostada and a trio of refreshing sorbets compliments of the chef. We also got to have a chat with the owner whose love of Napa and organic, sustainable agriculture definitely came through.

Back to the hotel moaning and groaning, trying to loosen the buttons in our pants. I got a goodnight call from the kids again and marveled at how clear Teia's speech is now and how I could tell that Jacob was missing me (even tho' he wouldn't admit it). Despite a little pang of the heart, it was a good, good day.

Tomorrow, we've got to get up super early to do the hot air balloon ride!