Think of a visit to the Calaveras Wine Country as more than a wine experience - take time to absorb the lifestyle experience it offers as well. Murphys, in particular, is truly a journey to a quieter, slower, more friendly time and place.
One of my first introductions to the personality of Murphys was in a planning meeting for our annual Passport Wine Weekend. Because of the accompanying street faire on Main Street, someone offered that Main Street would be closed "from Algiers to the mule." Now, Algiers Street was easy; it's on any map. But "to the mule." just did not show up on Map Quest or anything else I could find. Clearly everyone in the room - except me - knew what "the mule" meant. I did not want to play the ignorant "newbie" and ask, so I simply went along, nodding my head.
However, my drive out of town made it all clear: Standing at a fence at the end of town opposite of Algiers Street was...a mule. Now, much more comfortable with Murphys, I've learned that the mule's name is Clarissa and she is as much of a town fixture as many of the local businesses - and with just about as much personality.
So plan a day trip to meet Clarissa. By luck, that would put you right next to Vina Moda Winery and a great place to start your tasting adventure. Pick up a map of local wineries at Vina Moda, then walk on down the street to Stevenot, Lavender Ridge, Hatcher, Newsome-Harlow, my own winery - Solomon, Frog's Tooth, Twisted Oak, Milliare and others - all within easy walking distance and all producing memorable, award winning wines.
What are you waiting for?