Calcareous Vineyard

We had taken off time to celebrate our seven-year-itch anniversary by visiting friends in Los Angeles, but Ron came down with bronchitis.

So we ended up on a "stay-cation" which we dubbed "Club Meds!"

No problem, we saved money, which is a good thing. And, we visited some new wineries.

First on our list was Calcareous, recommended

to us by many of our wine-loving friends.

Calcareous sits on a high hill overlooking valleys and mountains in every direction.

The tasting room is nice blend of modern and rustic, and the grounds are perfect for picnics!

We had made a pit-stop at TJ's and bought a loaf of bread, some gooey pesto/cheese spread and a big tray of sushi... we were ready to chow.

But we started by sipping through the tasting list with our host, Christy.

Everything was delicious, and three wines in particular stood out as exceptional:

The 2006 Syrah at 15.8% alcohol and the 2007 Tres Violet, a blend of 58% Syrah, 30& Grenache and 12% Mourvedre which also boasted 15.8% alcohol.

Ron, of course, loved the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, another 15.8% alcohol wine.

Oh, and I can't forget to mention that the winemaker, Jason Joyce, has been making magic with a 2008 Pinot Noir.

We were fortunate enough to get a sample from the barrel that afternoon!

I bought a glass of the Tres Violet and Ron got the Cab, then we headed out to the picnic area.

Since we were the only guests at the time, we had our pick of tables.

It was surprising, as this place is really lovely with gorgeous views and delicious wine.

Anyway, we pigged out as the wind (dang, it has been a windy, cold summer!) tried to thwart our happiness but to no avail -- ha haaaa!

The wine was just too good, along with all our lunchables, to be ruined.

We will go back to Calcareous many times, and depending on our future economic status, we would like to become members!

And of course, we recommend that YOU check out this gem of a winery.