There's nothing like spending time with friends, eating great local food, dissing conservative blowhards and drinking good wine. So in this spirit, I ventured off the beaten path to balm my wounds and breathe a little fresh air. April/May in NorCal is inspiring and that is why I try to take a big bite. I had been working on another house for Charles Schwab in Woodside, CA so it was a quick, much needed hop up to wineland.
My friends at Clos du Bois Winery in Geyserville asked me back to build another winespace for them in their Hospitality Center. This is where they entertain their salespeople and special guests. The space has a full commercial kitchen, dining and media area with a beautiful, panoramic view of the Alexander Valley (Sonoma County).
Truth be told, this was one of the smallest areas I've ever built but it had all the challenges. Constellation Brands is the corporate owner and CduB is the largest purchaser of grapes in Sonoma County but the setting is beautiful. My friend, Erik Olsen, is the head winemaker and his Marlstone and Briarcrest wines are incredible. But when you walk the vine rows with the wild mustard and just enjoy being in the country, all problems just fade away.
