tasting tours: travelling in
WINE COUNTRY
By Sylvia Jansen
An easy drive of about ninety minutes from Paris can see you sipping Champagne in an ancient chalk cellar. The same time from San Francisco finds you in the heart of the Napa or Sonoma Valleys. Or from Pearson Airport in Toronto to a tasting room in the Niagara Peninsula. Even easier is driving from Kelowna, B. C. to a beautiful estate vineyard in the Okanagan Valley.
You get the message: wine country is accessible. It’ s also beautiful— the landscapes that grapevines love is often rolling, green and gorgeous. Many winemakers and people in the wine industry love their work, and are happy to share it with interested guests. Moreover, great wine attracts great chefs, restaurants and fine accommodation— the elements of wonderful wine travel. Whether you are after a leisurely drive through wine country after a few days of business meetings, or a full package complete with helicopter, the wine experience is hot tourism.
TRAVEL TIPS Plan Ahead. Having a plan, even if it’ s a last-minute one, is a good idea. Some wineries have regular hours for guests; some require reservations or special arrangements to visit. Find
www. banvilleandjones. com 43