An amazing view of the Napa Valley - Artesa Vineyards and Winery

Every Fall, I find myself drawn to Artesa Winery in South Napa. They have one of the most expansive views, with almost 360 degrees of sweeping vistas that stretch from the Golden Gate Bridge, through Carneros in Sonoma, and up the Napa Valley. Part of what makes it such a great spot is it's location. Perched atop a large hill, with plenty of area to walk around and find good shots such as the one below. Oh, and the wines are pretty good too - be sure to check out the Pinots and the single-vineyards Cabs. If they have the Tempranillo, you'll want to scoop a bottle of that as well.

The secret sauce in Rodgers Creek Vineyard

Rodgers Creek vineyard, in Sonoma CA, is well known for its ability to grow stellar Pinot Noir grapes. Yet it remains one of the most underrated and overlooked vineyards. Some of the most respected winemakers get their grapes from this lesser known vineyard, and it's one that has received praise from top wine critics.

Jon Bonne writes, "Here a perfect mix of factors seems evident. Constant wind and fog come from the east, some humidity and temperate weather from the bay (though the bay's influence is up for debate). The steep, terraced block gets ample afternoon sun with a bit of a wind break from trees above and below. It is, says winemaker David Ramey, "kind of an ideally situated site in a cool climate." (http://www.sfgate.com/food/article/California-s-best-lesser-known-v...)

Notable producers who source grapes from the Rodgers Creek vineyard include Sojourn Cellars and Garnet Vineyards. Both produce high-scoring (91-93 points) Pinots for around $30-40.

Here's what Landmark Vineyards has to say on the subject:

My two recommendations for Rodgers Creek Pinots:

• Garnet Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir - $29 (!!) 91 Points WE. and available through Vintage Point. This is a steal for this wine, which they produced only about 400 cases of. Garnet has been making excellent Pinots for decades, and their winemaker, Alison Crowe really knows what she's doing with the variety.

• Sojourn Cellars Rodgers Creek Pinot - $48, 92 points Pinot Report. Available at Sojourn's website

Images from Rodgers Creek: