Volume 19 America West Farm&Ranch�

The scent of fine wine is a magical and

inviting aroma, one that stirs the belly

to desire good foods, beckons the

beholder to exotic locales and sets the mind to

dance to the rhythm of wild romantic fancies. It

harkens to the times of the ancient Greeks, who

taught us to philosophize, and the Egyptians

of lore, whose ceremony and architecture still

fascinate us. While American colonists may have

wanted no part of England’s tea, they no doubt

preserved their admiration for the wines that

graced the tables of Europe’s kings and lords.

In Northern California, September is

synonymous with the fall grape Crush.

The colors of early autumn paint a serene

background to the exciting annual ritual, when

some 250,000 tons of grapes are harvested to

become apéritifs and libations. Renowned for

its historical, mystical and magical elements,

wine has long been a staple in French,

Italian, Spanish, Greek and Egyptian cultures,

symbolizing family gatherings and religious

traditions that have endured for centuries.

The Napa Valley explodes in September with

perennial visitors and curious newcomers, all

lured to the West Coast by the intoxicating

sophistication of the best American wines,

the trademark Northern California charm

and the grand slate of terrific events and

entertainment opportunities available

throughout the Crush season. A month-long

celebration of European sophistication in

“Romantic America,” the Crush is more than

just a series of local events, but signifies the

beginning of a tradition and the conclusion

The Crushu

Experience the Napa Valley Fall Harvest

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