Lovehappyhour: A Day at Swanson Vineyards and Winery

A Day at Swanson Vineyards and Winery.

by Maren Swanson

November 28th, 2012

The first time I discovered Swanson wines, I was reading a wine book that I keep stashed in the back of my bar. I bring it out on occasion when I'm sipping on the nectar of gods and my mind can wander to far away places that promise a beautiful escape with serene surroundings - a rarity for me. When it comes to literature on wine and wineries, I appreciate the words AND the pictures, so naturally, Swanson Vineyards and Winerycaught my eye because of the spectacular photos I had viewed and secondly, for the name: Swanson. You see, my last name is Swanson, so I must admit that I have a tender place in my heart for anything that owns the family name.

When it came time to plan my trip to attend Flavor! Napa Valley this year, I was determined to make my work trip an unforgettable one with an overall objective to collect the most "material" that I could (hint: wine). I began my road trip (driving an SUV to ensure maximum storage of "material") with a few stops in Sonoma and planned a final destination in Napa. My trunk was practically full and my trip was almost over by the time I arrived at Swanson Vineyards. I was able to set up an early appointment to collect photos and video prior to my tasting (appointments are required for all tastings and entrance) which was ideal because after a night of continuous rain, the clouds had begun to part that morning and the walkway to the Swanson salon room was covered with fallen amber leaves.

The fog was hovering over the freshly picked vines and and the dew on the flowers sparkled like diamonds from the the sun-kissed flowers. Wait a minute. Is this a fairy tale beginning or reality? That was how I felt - transported to a make-believe world of whimsical stick figures and birds that sung like they had sprung from a Disney movie. Before my mom and I entered the French doors to our tasting, a lively woman with long gray hair greeted us outside. Bright as the emerging light, Elizabeth Swanson (wife of founder W. Clarke Swanson), shook our hands and invited us in for some wine and conversation. Later as told to us by our "Salonlier," Elizabeth and Clarke opened the winery in 1985. Daily, she pops in and helps decorate the room with fresh cut flowers from her home garden.

Upon entering the salon, one immediately notices the colorful interior and eclectic furnishings collected from previous centuries and foreign land. Coral walls, cherubs and chandeliers stand silent as flickering candles illuminate crystal wine glasses being set on the table. It's all in the details here. And just as I was beginning to take it all in, a cool glass of Rosato was slipped into my hands.

As the other guests arrived, we were seated at an old wood table inlaid with slices of geode. Stories and wine were passed while we noshed on potato chips with creme fraiche and caviar, including a plate plump with artisanal cheeses - all delicious. The setting was intimate, only 8 of us gathered, practically made to feel like royalty. Among the varietals poured: Chardonnay, Merlot (they are famous for it), Petite Syrah, Face Cabernet Savignon (my favorite) and Angelica. Next door, they have a Sip Shoppe with sweet wines and chocolate tastings that I'll have to try some day.

Alas, after the tasting, I was sad to leave. I secretly hoped I could one day live in a place as magical as Swanson Vineyards and Winery - at least I shared the name! So in an effort to share my formidable experience with you, the reader, I leave you with words, pictures AND video. Salud!