Wine Area to Visit for Big 50!

Need to pick a spot to celebrate the Big 50 this September. As a Washington State resident, I have been to all Washington areas as well as Willamette Valley. Will (probably) be visiting Southern Okanagon BC wineries next month. One visit to Napa & Sonoma 4 years ago. One visit to Australia. No overseas travel this year. Looking for easy, relaxing but great experience in new wine area. Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Mendocino, Monterey hold some interest, but I know nothing of these areas or tasting experiences there. Return to Napa/Sonoma considered. I enjoy most all wines (red and white) with a preference to red bordeaux blends, southern rhone blends, and Spanish reds.

Suggestions/recommendations please.

Recommend Monterery and Paso Robles. If interested, will provide details.

Here, Sierra Foothills. In Europe, Piemonte (that's where I did my 50th).

I'll second Stuart. Lovely scenery and decent wines.

A third vote for the Sierra Hills. Great variety of wines and microclimates with winemakers who really know their stuff. Beautiful scenery, a fair amount of history.

Go East young man! The Finger Lakes and Niagara Peninsula. Not sure when the 50th is, but we're having a NiagaraCOOL get together June 23-24th. I'd even bake you a cake.

I was also going to suggest the Finger Lakes, especially if it's late in September. Breathtaking hills, lakes, turning trees.

I'll second Stuart. Lovely scenery and decent wines.

Decent wines Piedmonte? You should have half as good in Washington.

Decent wines Piedmonte?

Decent wine, Foothills. Forget your Aricept?

I've yet to go to Italy. I have not been that impressed with various Italian wines people have brought to tastings. It may be entirely different while in country with local foods. I hope to visit Italy within the next six months or so...

If you haven't been to the Central Coast (Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles), I'd recommend a trip there. Not only will you find plenty of great wine, but it's a beautiful area of California that's far less crowded than other coastal areas here. The fall is usually a great time to visit.

If you're looking at a good place to stay, consider Sycamore Mineral Springs. It's in Avila Beach just south of San Luis Obispo. Each room has its own private jacuzzi on the balcony. Most are filled with hot natural spring water, but you can request a room with fresh water if you prefer. They have a good restaurant on the premises and a great spa as well as yoga and other classes. http://www.cheers2wine.com/sycamore-min ... rings.html

Whatever you decide, happy birthday!