Winter in Napa & Sonoma Wine Country (Photos)

The wine country makes a fun destination any time of the year but winter is a special time since it is less crowded, providing more time to linger in the tasting rooms. Many wineries release their new vintages, allowing you to be the first to sample. If you are planning a visit to the wine country, you might want to attend one of these wine/food events this month in Napa and Sonoma Valley.

Sonoma County wine region is hosting the 21st Annual Winter WINEland on January 19-20, 2013. Explore wineries located in Alexander Valley, Russian River and Dry Creek Valley. There are 100 participating wineries pouring limited and new releases, as well as library selections. Meet the winemakers and enhance your knowledge of wine. Some wineries will offer food pairings and others will provide tours. Tickets can be purchased at participating wineries, click here for details.

Calistoga, located at the northern end of the Napa Valley, is hosting the 4th Annual Winter in the Wineries through February 10, 2013. Choose from 15 award-winning wineries with a passport that provides access to each of the wineries at your leisure during the event. Purchase a passport for $50 which allows for complimentary tastings, one time at each of the wineries. Passports also provide discounts at local restaurants and lodging properties. Click here for more details. Read more about what makes Calistoga a famous spa town.

Napa Valley Restaurant Month is happening during the month of January. Chefs are offering special menus and Napa Valley wine pairings to delight your inner culinary adventurer. Special "stay and dine" lodging packages are also available to make it easier to stay longer. Click here for more details.

©Karla Erovick 2013 article, photos

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, SF Romance Travel Examiner

Karla Erovick enjoys traveling to undiscovered locations. She has written articles on Dubai, Panama and Spain's Costa del Sol. Erovick is the author of "Love to Date - Date to Love: Unlocking the Secrets of Dating."

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