TR’s Itinerary: Geyserville

Here are my recommendations for a fun-filled two days/two nights in Geyserville:

Arrive in Geyserville and relax around the pool at Hope-Merrill House, your lodging. Walk to Hoffman House for dinner.  After sleeping peacefully in this Victorian mansion, start your day with their inspiring, complete breakfast.  Head out the door and south on Geyserville Avenue- first stop is Route 128 for tasting in one of the original Henry Ford Auto supply shops.  Great wine and fun are found here along with some great historical photos. Then trek to Mercury Wines, for as they say, “tiny lots of everything, at prices you can afford”- winemaker Brad is truly a mad scientist and quite the host in this white-on-white, open, modern tasting room.  Then it’s time for lunch at Diavola, a local favorite with great pizza, fresh salads and panini to tempt every palate- great wine list, too- rustic, comfy décor.  After lunch wander next door to Locals where you can taste flights of wine.  This is such a treat to sample wines side by side!  Don’t forget to visit Meeker, in the old BofA Bank Vault and Terroirs Artisan Wines where wines by cult winemaker Kerry Damskey are featured in a beautiful, cool modern tasting room.  Walk back up to Hope-Merrill for more pool time and rest- on the way back, check out the incredible potpourri of items that are available in the historic Bosworth Hardware Store. Dinner tonight is within walking distance of your lodging, too- favorite, Catelli’s.

Next morning, stroll over to Alexander Valley Bikes and rent some wheels- head north to Geyser Peak and then south to check out the tasting menu at Trione, Clos du Bois and Trentadue.  It’s a short bike over to RUSTIC, Francis’ Favorites, the new restaurant at Francis Ford Coppola’s Winery for lunch. Food, service and views (sit on the terrace) are all proving to be a winning combination! Great wine list available here.  You can even stroll through the winery for a bit of Hollywood glamour with the Coppola Oscars, costume and prop displays- including the Tucker automobile- and a great gift store.  The family pool with rentable individual pool “Cabins” is also a great way to pass some time.

This Friday, I will give you my update on Geyser Peak Winery from my recent visit there along the Wine Road.

Here’s looking at you, kids.

TR