SPRING BRINGS BACK THE HUM OF LIFE

Life returns by layers to the vineyards - first the light, then the warmth

and finally the color. After the chill of this especially penetrating winter,

this spring the warmth may be most welcome of all. Of course, the coming will

be gradual and at the beginning there still will be the early morning battles

against frost. But as the weeks pass, the sun will strengthen to coax first

bud break and then full bloom on Wine Country's back roads. Swallows will

return to the barns and leaves to the willows as the awakening begins.

As the pace quickens, there is much activity in the vineyards, mowing,

weeding and tying vines. Spring, with all its chores and busyness, is at its

center the most practical of seasons. So we offer here a very practical guide

to its offerings, from the perfect Pinot with lamb on Easter to the perfect

leisurely breakfast spots to feel the hum of the season.

Steal an intimate glimpse during the spring home and garden tours that

allow a peek inside, from the cottages of Healdsburg to the architecture of

The Sea Ranch. The rush of water beckons and winemakers share their favorite

escapes to lake and sea for kayaking or just running along the shore. Light is

all around, but nowhere like the beacons of the dancing lighthouse beams on

the seas of the Mendocino Coast. The final ingredient of spring then is color,

whether the wild iris in those coastal meadows or the more ordinary pleasure

of brilliant mustard carpeting the vines on most any byway. Enjoy the layers

of spring.

Catherine Barnett

Executive Editor