California usually conjures up visions of sandy beaches with tanned figures roller- blading on the sidewalk, shopping on Rodeo Drive like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman or skiing the world class resorts of Lake Tahoe or Mammoth. And while all the above are true highlights of the Golden State, there is another exciting feature which you may not even have thought of – the wine regions. California’s wine regions produce some of the best wine in the world, and the wine valleys of Napa and Sonoma especially, are famous for their open door policy – a trip there guarantees you not only wine tasting, but invitations into wine cellars, wine bars and if you’re lucky a local festival or concert.

This open door, laid back philosophy also means a visit to the wine valleys isn’t just for wine buffs. You can learn about wine making, see it in action, taste the grapes and meet the winemakers, or if you prefer you can just sit back, relax, eat some delicious food along with some even more delicious wine and take in the breathtaking scenery. Here goes a whistle stop tour of the wine making regions, highlights of each and the wines to try. If you’re not itching to book a flight straight into San Francisco after this, we’ll eat our wine barrel!

The Northern California Coast offers everything from views along the rugged shoreline to ancient redwood forests and native oak groves. The Russian River runs down through the coastal mountains of Mendocino into northern Sonoma County, makes a turn west near the town of Healdsburg and heads for the Pacific Ocean. And as if these natural wonders weren’t enough, the rolling hills, mountains and valleys carpeted with lush grapevines entice the visitor at every turn. As well as fantastic wine, the North Coast is also well known for superb local produce from its farms, ranches and the ocean. Each district offers visitors the chance to sample hand-made cheeses, olive oils, meats and fresh fish.