BiteClub: An afternoon at Rodney Strong's Terrace

The smell of spring swirls around the newly-opened Terrace at Rodney Strong Vineyards — rows of grapevines, freshly-mown grass, and a bright pink rose of pinot noir in the glass. Breathe deeply, then pinch yourself. You've found your new Happy Place. More than a tasting room, this intimate outdoor patio features the perfect lazy-afternoon sip and nibble experience with five luxe bites paired with five Rodney Strong wines. Kick back under the cheery orange umbrellas, survey the expansive vineyards before you and let yourself be pampered with a plate of local cheeses or charcuterie with perfectly paired wines. Or go all in for the chef-created five-course pairing (on our warm spring afternoon it included Dungeness crab and short rib bao) with several reserve wines. (We fell hard for the 2012 Reserve Chardonnay.)

Chef Mat Petersen heads up the kitchen (and new outdoor pizza oven) with consultation from Tara Goodman (Adafina Culinary, Black Pig Meats), making this a tasting worth going out of your way for. Well, that and the view. Five-course tasting, $55; cheese plate for two, $25, cheese and charcuterie, $35. Reservations recommended, but not required. Open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 11455 Old Redwood Hwy, Healdsburg, (707) 431-1533. Oh, and by the way, don't miss the Meyer lemon marmalade with the cheese plate and strawberry rhubarb jam.

Still hungry? Check out Heather's always-updated food and dining blog at BiteClubEats.com.