Bobaknit Retreat - Day Two!

Saturday: Calistoga is nice because although it is in Napa Valley it is at the Northern end and has a bit of a funky character. This was evident as we were walking back from our morning coffee and we spotted this labyrinth in an empty lot. It was surrounded by words like LOVE, TRUST, FORGIVE, FAITH, although my favorite was probably OY!

I would much rather stay some place that has a little "character" and Calistoga did not disappoint in this area. Although the Napa Valley influence was certainly present in the local grocery store as well. There was an incredible selection of wines, cheeses and even an olive bar.

But really it is just beautiful. the weather was lovely for most of our visit, not too hot or too cold and the ability to walk into town from our Inn was greatly appreciated!

But we are also here for the wine... right? Well, we went to Mumm. I really like good Champagne and Mumm has some nice ones, yes- I know we can't really call it "Champagne" because it isn't made in the champagne region of France, but I can never remember how to spell that other term so we're just going to go with it. Right now that that is settled- champagne, Mumm, good. I bought some.

We went to Rombauer and saw many photos and autographs of famous people. I wold take that to imply that the wine is good, and it was. I only bought a bottle of Chardonnay, although I was really tempted to get a bottle of the 2001 PS Cabernet, but at $80 a bottle I took a pass. But check this out... they had an old Cushman bike on the porch! These are so cool!!!! You have to understand that I used to ride what would now be called a vintage Vespa ('74 Rally 200 for those who are interested) and I have an appreciation for old motor bikes. These things are pretty rare.
We headed next to Clos Pegase. Jeni and Becky are members there and are quite enthusiastic about their wines. They also have quite a lot of art on display at the winery as well. It was pretty impressive really. I would do that if I ever owned a winery (hey- we can all dream... wine making and knitting would be a nice combination I think!)



There was a lot of sculpture outside and we were told in advance about "The Thumb". Have to take a picture with it Jeni said. And as we walked up towards the tasting room, there it was! A very enthusiastic man volunteered to take our picture and so we obliged...

But inside we were even more impressed. Real Art co-mingling with Real Wine and a real good time. How awesome is that?!

This is Francis Bacon. Francis Bacon, people! Just hanging there on the wall of the tasting room. I couldn't believe it. Wow.
I had the "premium tasting" which meant that I tasted three Cabernet's that were absolutely divine. If I had purchased all three of them it would have been about $250-$300. The $15 tasting was a deal... Pretty though, isn't it?

Jeni, Jill and Becky enjoying a taste...

And here are our lovely and appreciated designated drivers, Kristi and Cookie, enjoying some knitting time in a beautiful setting!

Then it was time to head back to our Inn and enjoy some fiber arts!
Competitive spinning...
Relaxing knitting...

Inspiration...

(This is a shawl knit by Gene Beugler I can easily say that this is one of the most beautiful knit pieces that I have ever seen. This is a lousy photo of it that in no way does it justice but let's just say that I am now committed to becoming a better technical knitter.)



Enjoyment...

"Wish you were here!"