Perks of the Job

We were recently invited to the new Littorai Winery perched on a hilltop in Sebastopol. The winery will be open for tasting by appointment, and trust me, it will not be a disappointment! Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are their specialties; and they are committed to biodynamic farming. Take the tour and learn all about this environmentally sound way to farm. Also, a short drive from Littorai is the newly-opened Freestone Winery, an off-shoot of Joseph Phelps Winery. Freestone Winery's mission is to produce the best Pinot Noir! We're happy to share with you our favorite winery and dining spots during your stay at the Inn at Occidental. Please ask us!

Let the Crush Begin

Ooo, exciting news here in glorious Sonoma County: the 2008 grape harvest has begun! This is an exciting time of year, wineries working often around-the-clock to crush, press, and store the grapes being rushed to their location by eager vineyard workers. Apparently this is one of the earliest harvests ever, too, brought on dry weather this spring and warmer-than-normal weather now.

Needless to say, the grape and wine industries are very important -- and large -- to Sonoma County. Here are a few facts and figures:

* Total 2008 Sonoma Country grape harvest: estimated to be 180,000 tons

* Last year's crop's worth: $417 million

This time of year, between now and the end of October, is truly beautiful, with heavy bunches of grapes in the vineyards, the leaves beginning to turn, and clear, hot days. Come stay with us to experience Wine Country living at its most exciting: harvest time!

Cover Crop Croppers

The grass and wild flowers growing between vineyard rows in the winter -- called cover crops -- help prevent soil erosion during the winter rains. In the spring, however, these are mowed down so that the cover crops don't steal needed moisture and nutrients from the vines. During our dallies about wine country the other day, we saw these cover crop croppers hard at work, and wanted to share. Enjoy!