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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEKROMBAUER VINEYARDSBringing You the Joy of Wine for 30 Yearsby Nan ReileyNapa Valley wineries have many kinds ofenjoyment to offer, but when you are in themood for a day of pure pleasure, when youwant to take joy in the beauty of yoursurroundings and the excellence of the wineyou are tasting, then come to Rombauer Vineyards.Rombauer is located at the secluded,northeastern edge of the valley on theSilverado Trail, a separate world within theworld of Napa Valley. You’ll climb from thevalley floor over a paved driveway that meandersthrough a venerable head-trainedZinfandel vineyard and up into the forest. Awinery in a forest? Yes, this question isanswered as you approach the wineryperched upon a wooded knoll with views thatlook out forever across the lush valley to thewest. You may have the sensation of comingupon a secret garden here, because thecopious variety of flowers and shrubs readslike something from a gardening encyclopedia.Curving gravel walkways borderedwith a riot of colorful plantings lead to picnictables under oak trees and a trellised gazebowith benches and the magnificent valleyviews.Mercifully, Rombauer is not an architecturalgrandiosity. In keeping with its sereneand wooded setting, the entry to the tastingroom offers a broad roofed porch withbenches, potted flowers and, again, thebreathtaking views. Inside, three small separatebars are staffed with low-keyed, friendlypeople who want you to enjoy your visit andsome great wines as well. Many of these24www.WineCountryThisWeek.com