Summer Break

Greetings, friends! See that Adirondack chair? The one looking out over the peaceful vista, without a care in the world? You might not be able to tell, but it’s about 80 degrees where that chair’s sitting, with a soft breeze rustling through the oak tree, and the photographer is about to picnic on a triple-cream cheese, some charcuterie and olives, and a glass of pinot noir from those vines in the background. It’ll get hot later in the day, and a local will tip her off to a crystal-clear swimming hole up the road. This, friends, is what vacation looks like.

Except, since I am an exceptionally lucky sort, this trip to the Anderson Valley (a staggeringly beautiful, pinot-producing wine appellation of Mendocino County) was really just a pre-vacation, a warm-up for the main event: ten days, starting today, in Barcelona. Yes, that Barcelona. As in Spain. As in tapas and Rioja and dancing ’til three am. I am a lucky sort indeed.

So, dear readers, I’ve decided that this little blog of mine is going on holiday, too. I’ll be back in a couple weeks, recharged and refreshed, with lots to share (you can subscribe or “like” Scarpetta Dolcetto on Facebook to catch any updates). And if you’re making vacation plans of your own, consider visiting the Anderson Valley for your own getaway: it’s a bucolic, soul-reviving place to visit, with tree-lined country roads, a sleepy pace, world-class beer and great wines. (If you head that way, be sure to book an al fresco dinner at Table 128 at the Boonville Hotel.) Wish me bon voyage and I’ll be writing to you soon!