Makita Studio: Napa Valley Getaway

The grounds at Viansa Winery were gorgeous! It has this fairytale like setting which you would only dream about in a love story or maybe find at a magical place, like Disneyland except very quiet and less crowded. Surrounding the venue, were several sitting areas that had elegant patio tables and chairs. The architecture and landscaping resembles that of Tuscany which we found out as part of its history. We then went up a walkway that led us to the Marketplace which sits on a hill and overlooks the valley of Sonoma and Napa Counties. Did I say it was GORGEOUS?

the Villa

its like a fairytale

a fountain

sitting by the fountain

green grapes

walking to the marketplace

rustic beauty

very romantic

beautiful scenic view

the marketplace also offers deli and gourmet foods

ready for wine tasting

red, red, wine

our sommelier

a sip of an excellent cabernet

salute

feeling happy

wine cellar

our favorites: piccolo sangiovese 05, frescolina (dessert wine) + cabernet franc 04

enjoying pistachio gelato on the outdoor patio

Rob and I have never been wine tasting before and we loved not only the experience, but it opened up our knowledge and understanding about how wine is to be enjoyed, with careful moderation of course, but also appreciated learning about the history behind it, the healthy attributes that it offers and its distinct flavors and richness which is carefully crafted and designed by the types of grapes, the methods used, and the expertise by prestigious individuals who have inherited the winery through family generations or passed on into hands of passionate wine connoisseurs.

After our wine tasting, we perused the marketplace and sampled gourmet cheeses, olive oils, and balsamic vinegars which were all fantastic. Wishing we had enough money on hand to purchase all of our favorites, we were happy enough to bring home some creamy brie cheese and this rich full bodied balsamic vinegar which was barrel aged, giving it this light consistency of syrupy goodness. Delish. As soon as we got home, we bought some rustic french bread, heated it up in the oven to make it crispy, yet soft and chewy in the inside, and dipped it with a mixture of extra virgin olive oil and the balsamic vinegar. Amazing...

The best part of this visit, was sitting outdoors on their patio, eating gelato ice cream.:) Rob and I spent such a wonderful time connecting, bonding, smiling at each other, laughing, daydreaming, inspiring and motivating one another, but most of all, feeling so blessed for this memorable experience that we both shared together on my birthday. Staring out into the view, we both felt breathless at such natural beauty and the perfect weather made it even more enjoyable. Coming from the foggy coast, who wouldn't love the warm sun in your face? We would love to come out here more often or maybe even retire in this hidden gem of California one day...

I didn't have the chance to take photos of our next destination, Greenhaus Spa, where we both enjoyed a much needed therapeutic massage and where I also got to throw in a mini facial. We could have used the services at our hotel, but from the reviews on Yelp, this place had a great reputation and cost less. Let me just tell you, we came out super duper relaxed and my face was glowing like never before...well, since I got married at least and pregnant with both my babies, but you know what I mean. :)

Then lastly, to end this beautiful day, we had a nice dinner in downtown Napa at a spanish tapas restaurant called ZUZU. The space was very homey and comforting as well as the food. The portions however were a bit small compared to the moderately high prices, but the experience of it all was worth it. The menu featured dishes that incorporated fresh, organic ingredients that are locally grown and in season and also incorporated the influence of South and Central America, the Mediterranean, and little bit of Southeast Asian but fused with a touch of Californian inspiration. I guess that's what you call Fusion Cuisine, right?