Take the road less travelled…toss in miles of hairpin, white knuckled, high-banked turns, for a most scenic drive over the  Highway 128 pass to Anderson Valley, gateway to the towering Mendocino County redwoods and pristine coastal access.

Ahhhhh…. when I reached the top of the summit, I was spellbound by the beauty of the ruggedness and the color of the deep red soil against the vibrant vines and dense dark redwoods.

My destination was Boonville, population 1,035, home of the Boontling folk language (Scottish Gaelic, Irish with some Pomoan and Spanish), and the Seebass Vineyards’ tasting room.

For history buffs, Boonville was founded in 1862 by John Burgots whose claim to fame was building the Boonville Hotel, which still proudly stands.  A general store and post office also co-existed in the tiny western town.  Remnants of the original town are still evident driving down Highway 128.

Much more modern that the Boonville Hotel, is the quaint Seebass Vineyards’ tasting room right across the street.   Fashioned after an early 1900’s parlor room, complete with a dark wood vintage bar, guests are invited to belly up to the bar and sample the estate wines.   [Read more…]