Just as I was contemplating being more open-minded about California wine, Fog Crest Vineyard comes along and steals my heart. Now I may now have to forsake all other California vineyards. Set in the Russian River in Sonoma County, on a day trip we decided to just explore... and let fate guide our wine tasting adventure. Driving around the Russian River Valley back roads, we made a sudden turn off of Occidental Road into the small driveway of an unassuming house, compelled by the evocative name: Fog Crest Vineyard.
The pleasant looking house is unassuming and could be any other residence in the bucolic wine country. But get closer and the wine tanks on the side of the house give away its true identity.
We opened the door on the front patio and found ourselves inside of a striking, modern tasting room. The room was spare with wood and tile, yet comfy with big leather couches in front of a roaring fireplace.
We were warmly welcomed as we sidled up to the spacious blonde wood bar and ordered a couple of tastings. The friendly server inquired where we would like to be served - on the comfy couches or on the terrace?
The French doors at the back of the house made me catch my breath. They peered onto an expansive valley over vineyards, sparkly wetlands, and brooding hills. Of course we opted for the simple and elegant stone terrace with the stunning view.
Before we headed outside, we happily ordered Fog Crest's $25 cheese plate. Nice touch. With our first chardonnay taste in-hand, we headed out to a table on the airy terrace to take in the intoxicating view and await our cheese plate.
It was a lazy Saturday afternoon and only a few other people populated the low-key terrace. The sun played hide and seek behind the looming dark clouds and occasionally brief panic set in as we felt random raindrops that threatened to pry us away from our perfect perch. But we were rewarded by sticking it out, and the rain never came.
Soon our beautiful cheese plate appeared, loaded with four mouth-watering local cheeses and a generous basket of bread and crackers. Our host described each cheese in riveting detail - and each one was delicious. Our server always seemed to know exactly when to pop back out to provide our next taste and provide delicious details about the wine production. We lingered on the patio, leisurely sipping our wine and unable to take our eyes off the stunning view.
There is something heady about Fog Crest that makes your whole being relax and want to while away the afternoon. Fog Crest has a distinct and compelling style with its focus on attention to detail and winning hospitality. Which is embodied in its delicious wines.
Fog Crest's milieu is well thought out, down to every detail. And we were thrilled to see that this attention to detail extends to its complex and tasty wines. Fog Crest focuses on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. I'm not much of a fan of California Chardonnays (too oaky-too buttery). And while Fog Crest's Chardonnays maintain the typical California character, they do so with such complexity that I found them difficult to resist. But I was particularly compelled by their Vin Gris, and regret not taking a bottle home - especially since they are apparently phasing it out in favor of Rose. I adore Roses, so maybe better that I didn't get hooked on the Vin Gris.
It was difficult to leave, but the sun was going down and tasting room hours would soon be coming to an end. We headed out with promises to see them again soon and were quickly wending our way down the country road to find an early dinner.
Where to Eat Near Fog Crest Vineyard
My friends knew of nearby Underwood Bar and Bistro on the small one-block main street of Graton. It was early enough that we were able to grab a table without a reservation. Good thing too, because the space soon filled up with buzzy locals.
My friends knew of nearby Underwood Bar and Bistro on the small one-block main street of Graton. It was early enough that we were able to grab a table without a reservation. Good thing too, because the space soon filled up with buzzy locals.
Underwood, with its traditional French-bistro look and zinc bar, is fairly large. The attractive bar takes up most of the first room and looks to be a pleasant place to grab a glass of wine and small plate. The service was friendly and impeccable.
We rounded it all off with a Ridge Zinfandel from Sonoma County.
We couldn't resist starting with the most addictive Harissa Fries with cilantro, scallions, and lime with a side of cooling yoghurt dip.
Both of my friends opted for the Duck, while I went for the special of seared Day Boat Scallops over purple potatoes. But we couldn't resist starting with the Harissa Fries with cilantro, scallions, and lime with a side of cooling yoghurt dip. We rounded it all off with a Ridge Zinfandel from Sonoma County. And finished with the warm chocolate torte.
We finished up the evening with the warm chocolate torte.
Sonoma wine country, packed with tempting and competing food and wine options, is only a quick hour away. So, it should be easy for me to pop up to my new favorite vineyard for the day. The weekend’s adventure was made even more special by the unexpected find of Fog Crest. I can’t wait to go back and visit - and can't wait to share with others.
