Katja Heinsch from Tri-Valley, California Convention & Visitors Bureau and Miriam from Air Berlin enjoy a gourmet lunch at Concannon Winery with Melanie Harbert and Scott Sanders from Livermore Valley Wine and Cycle Tours.

 Cool, clear and fresh! The sun warmed our shoulders, the wine warmed our souls and our riding companions warmed our hearts.

Jerry and Kristen with their Florida friends Greg and Dee are cyclists and enjoy wine. Right place . . . right time! No wallflowers here. Engaging, laid back, funny and fun!

Melanie and Scott of Livermore Wine and Cycle Tours met us at Fenestra about 11am Sunday morning. We started with an assortment of fruit, at least 4 different cheeses, salami, crackers, bread, olive oil and water . . . then we moved into the tasting room where we were greeted by (at least) 15 different wines to sample. Our Fenestra hosts were very generous and knowledgeable. A great introduction to some very good Livermore wines.

Rich of Tenuta Vineyards greeted us on their patio which offers a grand vista. All are invited to return anytime with a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenery. It seemed like a reality television show with the personable host and the outgoing guests. Inside, Rich will play the song of your choice. If your selection in not in his extensive library, he will download that song to play for you, and do 20 pushups if he didn't have your request.

Cedar Mountain Winery was the scene of a celebration for a 21 year old girl and her two lovely friends. I think Kristen has a picture of the guys in our group encouraging this young lady not to follow a life without wine. Blanch and Tom are the fascinating hosts with a lifetime of stories to share. Their port is fermented with Scharffenberger chocolate and truly a treat.

An attempted seat height adjustment became a test for Dee to ride the longest leg of our trip. A stripped nut on the quick release for the seat post allowed the seat to sink to it's lowest level. Dee rode back standing most of the way. No complaints from this determined lady.

With the sun just above the horizon, we boldly pulled into Deer Ridge Vineyards. Our host Alex invited us to a private look behind the scenes. I think he called it the dungeon. When I asked if they had the medieval devices to bond and torture us, he suggested we come back when he finished for the day. Carl, the owner, gave us insight on the importance of diligence in serving (or not serving) underage and/or those who have over indulged.

Now with the sun as low as Dee's seat post, we made the last few miles to Fenestra before dark. Scott and Melanie played sherpas and brought back our purchases. Wine futures from Tenuta for a great cabernet to be released in December will no doubt be purchased online.

Thanks to all for such a good time. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Coach Dan