Cathie Richardson Illustration

I've been wanting to see Napa in the autumn and  smell the aroma of the harvest. We were a little late to see the processing of the grapes, but the aroma was rich in the air. It was also triple digits a day we were there in October. We visited the winery that helped Napa  become recognized and respected for the wines they produce after winning a blind taste test in Paris.    Now there are over 500 vineyards in the area. They hand test the grapes to see when they are ready and harvest in the early morning hours around 2 a.m. Some of the grapes that are discarded or left on the vine are collected by hobby vintners. The Chateau Montelena is just above the town of Calistoga and we stopped by this fun artwork outside the Calistoga Beverage Company. A fun, whimsical art piece.  We were able to see murals and sculptures we hadn't seen on our other visits. This is "Bunny Foo Foo" at Hall Winery. And don't miss The Oakville Grocery Est. 1881  for picnic supplies. They have