In the course of trying to find Heibel Ranch in Pope Valley a couple of weeks ago, we came upon a small winery with an interesting history. The Pope Valley Winery is a small winery that was originally founded in 1897 as the Burgundy Winery & Olive Factory. After being abandoned twice, it finally became The Pope Valley Winery in 1998 when it was purchased by a group of longtime Pope Valley residents.

Having spent a decent amount of time visiting Napa and Sonoma Valleys and the surrounding areas, and certainly making our way off the main roads and up and over mountains to visit small wineries and vineyards, I thought I was pretty well versed on the area. But, Pope Valley definitely has a different feel than even the remote areas of Sonoma with tiny wineries that offer tastings in sheds and garages. In Pope Valley, it feels as though you are the only person that has been to visit that day (or week?)...

As a diehard Little House on the Prairie fan (no jokes please), I can imagine this place back in the pioneer days, because as you look around you still see the remnants- buildings from the late 1800's, old wagons, antique farm equipment, and the original farm houses that remain. Not to mention that there is a feeling in the air of a more relaxed, simpler lifestyle.

Returning to familiar territory, we also visited Constant Diamond Mountain Vineyard, which resides at the peak of Diamond Mountain. At an elevation of 2121', this is a great spot for some beautiful valley views. When I saw the pool house, I was trying to figure out a way to just move right in. This place is really something. Established in 1895, the property is a blend of the old and the new, with the old cottage having been restored to the splendor of 1895, and the contrast of the architectural marvel where the Constants now reside at the top of the mountain. Taking advantage of the location, their beautiful new home (which is built on top of the wine cellar), is constructed with a barn-style roof over a series of gigantic sliding glass doors, which open the entire house up from front to back to allow the mountain breeze to cool the air naturally. With a porch that goes all the way around the house, and entry into each room through these massive glass doors, this is the ultimate entertainment location.

Oh, and not only is Constant the most beautiful winery, but the wines are great, too. We had the opportunity to discover Constant wines at an event in South Florida a few years ago and we love the Cabernet, but this trip we had a chance to taste the Cabernet Franc and Syrah, as well. I am absolutely in love with the Constant Syrah. This was definitely my standout wine of this trip.

Between the ride up the mountain in the Swill Army Pinzgauer, on to visiting the restored farmhouse and taking in the beautiful scenery, to then tasting in the pool house on the top of the mountain, this was an absolutely wonderful visit at Constant.