Experience what some call the “Provence of the U.S.” on a magical journey to the land of California wine country. You’ll cook, taste, and delight in the many flavors of Sonoma County on this five-day culinary learning adventure.
Highlights:
- Exclusive small group of 12 participants
- Private winery tours
- Master olive oil class
- Hands-on cooking class
- Accommodations at MacArthur Place, a stunning inn in the heart of historic Sonoma
April 18
Arrival at San Francisco airport and transfer on your own to the charming town of Sonoma. Check in at MacArthur Place, an intimate 19th-century inn and spa situated just minutes from Sonoma’s historic plaza. Dinner in a wine country bistro.
April 19
Immerse yourself in the history of Sonoma with a private walking and tasting tour. From artisan cheese makers to olive oil makers, you'll discover why the town is considered a culinary mecca. In the afternoon continue your culinary discovery in a private hands-on cooking class at Ramekins cooking school. You’ll prepare a complete wine country meal in a jovial atmosphere, having fun and learning at the same time. Dinner follows the lesson.
April 20
Late morning departure for the Sonoma vineyards. You’ll visit two wineries, the first of which is Signorello Vineyard, which makes limited quantities of premium varietals that blend classic French wine making with California fruit. Tour the vineyards before tasting the wines and enjoying an al fresco picnic lunch amongst the vines. You won’t believe the views over the valley. Then it’s on to Hall Rutherford, a 25-year-old mountain vineyard owned by former U.S. Ambassador to Austria Kathryn Hall. Here you will enjoy a special tasting in the vault cave.
April 21
Head to Healdsburg to visit the award-winning DaVero olive farm. Learn the fascinating history of the farm and, after a tour, take a master olive oil class with a focused tasting. After the lesson enjoy an al fresco lunch featuring the dishes you prepared. Return by way of Tierra Vegetables, where you will learn about the sustainable farming movement and taste some locally grown products right in the field. Return to Sonoma and enjoy a farewell dinner.
April 22
Check out and bid fond farewells to your fellow travelers.
Your tour includes
- Four nights accommodations
- Two meals daily
- Nightly wine and cheese reception
- Two private hands-on cooking classes
- Private guided wine tour and tastings
- Walking and tasting tour of Sonoma
- Private motor coach transportation
- Services of a tour director
- Portage, taxes, and service
Prices start at $2,450.
The trip will be accompanied by faculty member from Colby, Colgate University, or Hamilton College. Request a brochure. |



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