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As we careened out of the San Francisco haze, my photographer mentioned that we had a very strict itinerary. First, we were to become winos in the vineyards of Napa Valley. He then barked that we had to meet the Dutchmen back in San Francisco for a trip south. Sipping Pacifico under the Santa Cruz sun was part B of our transient plan. A harsh, capricious tumble into the American dream. Fear and loathing in Northern California.

We arrived at Cakebread Cellars, a vineyard just south of St. Helena. The customers are invited by a large wooden spectacle, almost as if carved from the scraps of an Old Seaman’s chapel. Tasting fees for Cakebread Vineyards range from $10. A large sycamore patio is available for the larger events of the day.

Napa Valley wine country has an exotic allure. The area is draped almost exclusively of vineyards. Directions: Cakebread Cellars is located at 8300 St. Helena Hwy. To make reservations for tour tastings, visit here.

Our wine tasting manager was Hans Van Dale, a European immigrant who has worked with Cakebread Vineyards for almost two years. Before then, he was a professional shot putter for the German national team. I have always been suspect of wine culture. But my fears of old money were assuaged by the simple ambiance of Cakebread Cellars.

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