Sonoma County Harvest Fair Review

Locals and visitors gathered in Grace Pavilion on Friday & Saturday, October 4th and 5th for

With my designated drinker in tow, we entered the quiet fairgrounds until we turned the corner just past the flower pavilion and came upon a most splendid sight. A lively band played next to bleachers and a stage, set with half wine barrels lined up ready for the grape stompers and their Swabbies (they get the juice out of the barrel). I had never even known there was such a thing as a world champion grape stomper and now I was able to witness this most lively competition firsthand. The winners, a mother and daughter team beamed for the cameras after the first round.

Inside the pavilion, beautifully displayed tables of vintner’s passion for creating a good wine filled the center of the large hall. There were so many gold medals glistening in the light, I can see why northern California has become a wine destination for the world. With a plethora of wines to choose from, it was difficult to determine where to begin. Fortunately, I had a partner with me to visit the various tables. I’m not a wine expert by any means but having a companion with an excellent pallet helps in the decision. The Zinfandel from Rockpile vineyard, just outside of Healdsburg really stood out.

As enjoying good food is one of my favorite pastimes, I was delighted that the room was surrounded with tables topped with delectable treats both salty and sweet, one of my favorites beingScoop Of Sonoma from Forestville. They are two guys who really know how to take ice cream over the top. Hmm, wine and ice cream. That might be the next ultimate paring.