We chose Platypus Tours for our Sonoma experience because they specialize in smaller, "hidden gem" wineries that we might have missed had we only ventured out on our own or gone with a larger tour. We were picked up right at our RV site. No driving for us after visiting five wineries for tastings! Our diverse tour included Buena Vista Winery, which is California's oldest premium winery, and Loxton Winery, which was established in only 1996. Loxton sells only out of it's winery location (no distribution) and is owned and run by a very hospitable Aussie, Chris Loxton, who autographed the bottles of wine we purchased! B. R. Cohn Winery belongs to Bruce Cohn, who manages The Doobie Brothers, and where an annual charity event is held each year with the Doobie Brothers performing. Chateau St. Jean and Ledson wineries were the most elaborate we visited. Chateau St. Jean is a popular spot for weddings and other functions because of it's beautiful gardens. It was also where we had our own lovely outdoor lunch. The Ledson property is referred to as "the castle" and was actually planned to be the family residence. But because of the intense public interest as it was being built, and the success of their Merlot harvest they had sold to other wineries, they decided to turn the home into a winery and tasting room. We thoroughly enjoyed our more intimate visits with the "little guys."
No comments:
Post a Comment