jim_reynolds wrote:

> Yeah, I suppose that is an important bit of information...
> Anything/everything is on the table. I'm a bit of a Zin nut, and love
> the wines from Ridge, Martinelli amongst others, so does Sonoma/Napa
> makes sense as a starting point? Too cliched/touristy? Full disclosure,
> I'm far from an expert oenophile (to call me a novice would be
> generous), so looking to the pros for some advice.

Sonoma and Napa are major tourist areas especially Napa. When I travel
there I still go wine tasting but stay away from the bigger names.

I'm a big Zin lover too. The major Zin regions that I'm aware of are
Paso Robles and Amador County (Near Plymouth, California). Paso Robles
has far more wineries but I prefer Amador because its more remote,
rather quaint and a lot of fun.

In March I will be in Paso Robles for the Zin festival. A fun time at
the regions wineries. It's a very relaxed area to visit with some
pretty countryside.