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“Fancy a fusion of great scenery, culture and fine wine on our next holiday? Katie Kelly Bell finds biodynamics, vineyard hiking trails and historic wine caves, not to mention redwood forests, lavender gardens and sculpture as she picks out the 10 best cellar doors in California.

“California is among America’s most scenic states, and its wine tasting experiences are almost always accompanied by beautiful surroundings. Yet wineries aren’t relying on beauty alone to attract visitors. Indeed, wineries are going far further than the extra mile to craft unrivaled tasting-room experiences accented with elaborate gardens, ultra-personal private tours, cooking experiences and exhibits. Visit any of the 10 cellar doors recommended here, and you are guaranteed a compelling mix of experience, scenery and wine.

“Schramsberg sparkling wine is considered by many to be a standard bearer for New World bubbly. Yet, with more than two million bottles artfully stacked inside 3km of moss-covered, 125 year-old caves, this winery is as Old World as Napa gets. Tours are a full 90 minutes and include a mini-history on the property, plus tasting, cave tour and discussion of how sparkling wine is made. Schramsberg’s sparkling wines also enjoy the distinction of having been served in the White House by every president since Richard Nixon. For additional sparkling experiences you won’t find anywhere except in Napa…”

Katie Kelly Bell, September 2014
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