North Lake Tahoe is an area which offers wonderful cultural events and premier entertainment. Of all the things to do there, however, few things beat the simple joys found in attending a winery tour or one of the local wine festivals. The following events and places are all ones at which you can taste a few (or perhaps more than a few) great wines, relax with friends and family, and generally enjoy yourself.
The Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival
The 2009 Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival will be the 24rd incarnation of this magnificent event, which takes place each year in the Village at Northstar. The event takes place over the course of an entire weekend, beginning on Friday, September 11th and ending that Sunday evening, the 13th. In between, festival-goers are offered wine tastings, a "grape stomp", tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, a wine walk, classes on the pairing of food and wine, a gourmet marketplace, and much, much more. For wine connoisseurs and beginners alike, this is an ideal opportunity to enjoy fine wine and fine culture.
Uncorked in the Village at Squaw
Uncorked, which is located on First Street in the Village at Squaw, is a wine bar and shop which is geared towards those who are serious about their love of wine. This establishment offers wine tasting, wine by the glass, and special weekend events at which customers can meet and interact with local winemakers.
Trio in Truckee
Trio is a beautiful wine bar which is located in Truckee. Along with offering a stunning array of different wine selections from around the globe, this place also features small plate appetizers, delicious champagnes, and is basically just a very cool, chic place to visit.
Time for Wine in Tahoe City
This interesting wine shop, which is touted as a more "common man's" establishment, is a good choice for those who aren't as familiar with wine, or educated about it. The employees at Time for Wine are very willing to explain things and make beginners feel welcome.
The Pour House in Truckee
The Pour House, located in Truckee, is a great wine-tasting bar and wine shop. Unfortunately, however, it has extremely limited hours. The prices here, though, make up for any other element that's lacking.
Grapes and Grounds in the Village at Northstar
Grapes and Grounds, as its name implies, is a wonderful wine and coffee specialty store. A visit to this place is made worthwhile by the smell of the interior all by itself. The prices here, however, are a bit on the higher side.
The Truckee Village Winery
This winery, which offers year-round wine tasting, is of absolutely premier quality. Of especial brilliance are this winery's merlots, which make up some of the best the area has to offer. All in all, this is a great winery to visit for beginners and veteran connoisseurs alike.
This guide to some of the gorgeous grapes in and around North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Geoff Weed.