California – On the road with Jim

Shades of Solitude: A Tranquil Scene at the Barn Picture of the Week - Paso Robles, California

A weathered barn standing in peaceful solitude, basking in the warm evening glow — Shades of Solitude: A Tranquil Scene at the Barn – Witnessing the quiet beauty of an abandoned barn as the evening sun casts its gentle rays, inviting reflections on the simplicity and nostalgia of rural life.

Thanks for joining us for this, our last photo and story from our visit to San Luis Obispo County. Throughout our journey, we’ve discovered many subjects to photograph in this beautiful part of California, even when our schedules are filled with other activities. And that brings us to this week’s image.

You see, I have always been attracted to old white buildings. Perhaps it started during my early years of working with black and white, where these structures had an uncanny ability to pop against a dark background in prints. This allure has carried over into my color photography. Whenever I stumble upon a weathered white relic standing proudly in the fields, I feel compelled to stop my truck and capture its essence.

One such encounter occurred during our visit to the Adelaide Wine District in Paso Robles. As Queen Anne and I hurried along a narrow back road en route to our vineyard appointments, we inadvertently passed by a charming white barn. In that fleeting moment, I instinctively exclaimed to Anne, ‘I got to get me a picture of that barn.’

We found ourselves racing east, west, and back again past the white landmark three times, like in a Road Runner cartoon scene. Imagine those exact words hanging in the trail of dust left behind us. After our final tasting, we allowed ourselves to leisurely return to the barn to capture its portrait through my lens.

Something is enchanting about these old white buildings. Their weathered facades, the stories etched into their walls, and the unique character they bring to the landscape captivates me. In the case of this barn, the quality of light, the interplay of shadows, the closed doors, and its tidy upkeep evoked a sense of tranquility and a conclusion to a day of hard work.

In this particular example, which I refer to as Shades of Solitude, I was fortunate that circumstances prevented me from stopping at the barn earlier. Those extra hours before I returned allowed the sun to descend toward the horizon, casting a warm and inviting glow upon the scene. The timing of the sun’s position enhanced the barn’s features, accentuating the corrugated texture of its weathered exterior.

One of the delightful surprises that unfolded due to the lower sun was the presence of a tree that partially blocked the sun. This seemingly obstructive element turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The sun’s rays filtered through the branches and leaves, creating an interplay of light and shadow. Those soft, dappled shadows on the barn’s facade added depth, dimension, and a touch of mystery to the composition.

In the presence of the barn, time slowed down, allowing me to appreciate the peace that enveloped the scene entirely. The absence of noisy tractors, the distant hum of traffic, and the clamor of the everyday hustle and bustle created a sanctuary of tranquility.

You have a couple of options to view a larger version of Shades of Solitude. Visit its dedicated webpage by clicking this link: (Webpage link: Shades of Solitude). For a more detailed image examination, head to my posting on Fine Art America: (FAA link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/shades-of-solitude-jim-witkowski.html). On the Fine Art America page, if you hover over the image, you’ll see a green square; clicking inside the enclosure will grant you a one-to-one preview, allowing you to explore the intricate details of the photograph—an indulgence we photographers often call “pixel-peeping.”

We are delighted you joined us on this journey to Shades of Solitude and hope you find comfort in its tranquility. As we conclude our trip through Shades of Solitude, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for joining us in exploring quiet beauty and tranquil moments. May this image serve as a gentle reminder to seek solace in the peaceful corners of our world and to appreciate the moments of stillness that bring a sense of calm to our busy lives. Please join us again next week when we return to the Sonoran Desert to explore some familiar Phoenix landscapes.

Till next time
jw

Techniques: Seeing and Using Contrast to Enhance Your Photographs

Mastering contrast is critical to creating captivating and visually striking photographs. Contrast is the difference between light and dark tones, colors, textures, or subjects within an image. By understanding how to see and utilize contrast effectively, you can elevate the impact of your photographs and create images that truly stand out.

Emphasize Light and Dark: Achieve contrast by incorporating substantial variations between light and dark areas in your composition. Seek scenes with bright highlights and deep shadows, and consider how these contrasting elements can add drama and depth to your photographs. Pay attention to the direction and quality of light to create compelling contrasts that enhance the visual impact of your subject.

The contrast in Colors: Leverage the inherent qualities of colors to create visually striking images. Explore complementary colors, such as blue and orange or red and green, to generate vibrant contrasts that command attention. Experiment with warm and cool tones to add visual interest and create a sense of depth in your photographs.

Textural Contrast: Texture plays a significant role in photography. Incorporate contrasting textures like rough versus smooth, soft versus complex, or matte versus glossy to add visual intrigue and tactile depth to your images. Consider how these differences can create a captivating interplay within your composition.

The contrast in Subjects: Create contrast by incorporating diverse subjects within your frame. Experiment with combining elements with distinct characteristics or qualities, such as organic shapes against geometric structures, nature against artificial objects, or a minor subject against a vast landscape. The juxtaposition of contrasting subjects can create visual tension and enhance the overall impact of your photographs.

By developing a keen eye for contrast and understanding how to use it effectively, you can elevate the storytelling potential of your photographs and create images that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Coastal Serenity: A Tranquil Afternoon at Spooner’s Cove Picture of the Week - Morro Bay, California

A serene view of Spooner's Cove beach and the hazy Santa Lucia Range in the distance. — Coastal Serenity: A Tranquil Afternoon at Spooner’s Cove – Experience the tranquil beauty of Spooner’s Cove, where gentle waves kiss the sandy beach under the hazy skies. The distant Santa Lucia Range adds a touch of mystique to this serene coastal scene. #Spooner’sCove #MorroBay #CoastalBeauty

I want to provide some relief from the daytime temperatures clawing past the century mark this week. Let me transport you to a secluded beach, where cool sea breezes caress your skin and the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against golden sand will lull your senses. In this week’s photo, we find ourselves just a stone’s throw away from our previous location, Montaña de Oro State Park, south of Morro Bay, where a picturesque cove straight out of the movies awaits your exploration.

This lovely piece of real estate is Spooner’s Cove, and I know how your mind works. You’re thinking, “It got that name because horny lovers come here to be alone and watch the offshore submarine races.” Well, you’re wrong. This gem, nestled along the coastline, derives its name from Captain Spooner, an early settler in the region. While historical records and accounts don’t offer many details, the Cove’s designation pays homage to Captain Spooner’s presence or influence in this coastal region.

Spooner’s Cove is an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers various hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the coastal bluffs and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. It is a paradise for photographers, with its breathtaking coastal scenery and opportunities to capture the interplay of light, water, and land. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a romantic outing, or a peaceful day by the beach, Spooner’s Cove offers a serene and captivating experience that showcases the beauty of California’s coastline.

In this photo titled Coastal Serenity, we are presented with a secluded beach gently kissed by the receding tide. As your gaze extends beyond the sandy shore, the town of Morro Bay discreetly hides behind the bluff, concealing its iconic rock that typically graces the horizon. Across the hazy backdrop, the majestic Santa Lucia Range emerges—the coastal mountains that stretch from Morro Bay to Carmel. Serenely tracing the base of these mountains lies the Pacific Coast Highway, a dream route for sports car enthusiasts seeking the thrill of a scenic afternoon drive.

I regret that Queen Anne and I didn’t have more time at the Cove. It would have been nice to bring a food basket and a bottle of wine for a romantic picnic on the beach. Who knows, that secluded moment may have resurrected our libidos, and we’d be carried away—perhaps channeling the legendary scene enacted by Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr in the 1953 film From Here to Eternity (YouTube clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uzu_LezGQYQ ). But then, for the rest of the trip, I’d have had to hear her griping about all that sand in her bloomers—so, maybe not.

You have a couple of options to view a larger version of Coastal Serenity. Visit its dedicated webpage by clicking this link: (Webpage link: https://www.jimwitkowski.com/newWork/coastalSerenity.html). For a more detailed image examination, head to my posting on Fine Art America: (FAA link: https://fineartamerica.com/featured/coastal-serenity-jim-witkowski.html ). On the Fine Art America page, hover over the image to reveal a green square; clicking inside the square will grant you a one-to-one preview, allowing you to explore the intricate details of the photograph—an indulgence we photographers often call “pixel-peeping.”

We are delighted you joined us on this journey to Spooner’s Cove and hope you find solace in its beauty and tranquility. Stay tuned for next week’s installment as we draw our June project on San Luis Obispo County to a close. Keep your camera ready; the next breathtaking moment awaits your lens.

Till next time
jw

Techniques: Creating Depth with Atmospherics: Suggesting Distance in Your Photographs

Have you ever come across a photograph of mountains where the details appear to fade into the distance? Despite the lack of intricate features, the image still conveys a remarkable depth. This optical illusion is achieved through a technique known as atmospherics. The front mountains are rendered darker by utilizing varying tones and colors, while each subsequent layer of mountains behind gradually becomes lighter. This interplay of light and shadow creates a visual depth that immerses viewers in the expansive landscape.

Atmospherics, such as haze, fog, or mist, can be powerful tools in photography, enhancing the depth and suggesting distance within your images. This technique finds its roots in the works of impressionist painters, who often employed it to create a sense of three-dimensionality.

To maximize atmospherics, focus on weather conditions that offer the desired effects, such as misty mornings or hazy afternoons. These conditions can add a subtle veil to your photographs, softening distant elements and creating a gradual transition from foreground to background. The haze layers can suggest depth, guiding the viewer’s eye through the scene and immersing them in its captivating atmosphere.

When composing your image, consider how the atmosphere interacts with the elements in your frame. The distant mountains or shoreline can appear more subdued due to the atmospheric effects, creating a sense of distance and vastness. Leading lines or prominent foreground elements can further enhance the depth perception, drawing the viewer into the image and inviting exploration.

Experiment with different compositions and perspectives to emphasize the effects of atmospherics. Capture scenes where elements gradually fade into the distance, highlighting the layers of mist or haze. By balancing the interplay of light, shadow, and atmospheric conditions, you can create evocative photographs that transport viewers into a world of serene beauty.

Valencia Peak Vista: Capturing the Essence of Montaña de Oro Picture of the Week - Morro Bay, California

Landscape view of Bluff trail winding through grassy field with majestic mountains in the background at Montaña de Oro State Park in California — Valencia Peak Vista: Capturing the Essence of Montaña de Oro – Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Montaña de Oro State Park as you follow the beautiful Bluff trail, surrounded by rolling grassy fields and towering mountains. Discover this hidden gem’s serenity and natural wonders on California’s central coast.

Welcome back to our San Luis Obispo County project. As I tried to explain last week, it’s one of our favorite spots on the planet. Usually, the purpose of our trips involves wine tasting, so we spend most of our time traveling the roads that run past the vineyards and traverse the coastal mountains—the Santa Lucia Range. With an extra day set aside for photography, Queen Anne and I made a pact to explore places in San Luis Obispo County that were new to us.

On the morning of our shoot—after I dragged her majesty out of bed while we ate breakfast—I showed her a road I found on our California Gazetteer. It began in Morro Bay and made its way along the coast on the Montaña de Oro headlands to Pismo Beach. I told her my plans to drive down to the resort town and then return via the 101 Freeway. She thought that was a great idea as long as there was a candlelight dinner and a glass of Chardonnay at the road’s end. However, halfway through the drive, we found a locked gate preventing us from going further. It turned out that someone built the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Generating Station in our way and closed the road—how inconsiderate.

Our day wasn’t a total loss because, between Morro Bay and the gate, we drove through three nature preserves: Morro Bay Estuary, El Morro Elfin Forest, and Montana de Oro State Park. Since we had to double back, I’d have to settle with subjects along our route—oh, pity the poor photographer because each place is worthy of an afternoon—if not longer.

Morro Bay Estuary: A coastal wetland teeming with diverse wildlife and stunning vistas. A network of trails to explore that wind through the estuary offers opportunities to spot various bird species, including majestic herons and graceful egrets. If you remember to bring your mukluks, you may even try digging for clams or annoying the critters you’ll find in the tidal pools.

El Morro Elfin Forest: Unique and magical woodland. Marvel at the twisted, dwarfed trees that named the forest, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Stroll along the well-maintained trails, enjoying the tranquil ambiance and the delicate balance between the forest and the surrounding coastal dunes. Keep your eyes peeled for rare plant species and enjoy the peaceful serenity of this hidden gem.

Montana de Oro State Park: A coastal paradise of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and sweeping vistas. Hike along the stunning bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, witnessing the power of crashing waves and the dramatic coastal scenery. Explore the tide pools, where you can encounter a fascinating array of marine life, and venture further into the park to discover hidden coves and secret beaches.

I took this week’s image at the Bluff trailhead in the State Park. From the parking area, we had a choice of taking the trail down to the ocean or venturing across the street to embark on the course that led us into the majestic mountains. As we made our way along the path, the peaks rising to Valencia Peak stood before us, their commanding presence adding a sense of grandeur to the surrounding landscape. Amidst this natural beauty, my attention was drawn to the display of a bright orange Indian paintbrush. I knew that capturing this scene would encapsulate the essence of Montaña de Oro’s breathtaking vistas.

We invite you to visit the web version of this image, where you can view a larger version of Valencia Peak Vista: Capturing the Essence of Montaña de Oro. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, the rich colors, and the sense of serenity captured in this image. It’s a visual testament to the beauty in San Luis Obispo County.

Mark your calendars, and come back next week for another captivating tale and image. Until then, keep exploring, keep capturing moments, and remember that every step you take can lead to new and remarkable discoveries.

Till next time
jw

Techniques: Utilizing Leading Lines in Your Photographs

Leading lines such as the trail, the line of peaks, and the swale in this week’s image are powerful compositional elements that add depth and guide the viewer’s eye through the image. They create a visual pathway, drawing attention and creating a sense of movement. Whether straight, diagonal, or curved lines enhance the overall composition and introduce a three-dimensional quality.

These lines don’t have to be literal; the arrangement of objects or elements can imply them. By utilizing leading lines effectively, you can elevate your images’ impact and storytelling potential, inviting viewers to explore and discover hidden depths within the frame.

You can transform a simple scene into a captivating visual story by incorporating leading lines into your photography. Experiment with different types of lines and their placement to create a dynamic narrative within your image. Consider how leading lines interact with other elements and the mood they evoke.

Slope Serenade: A Symphony of Shadows and Light Picture of the Week - Cambria, California

A captivating landscape photo of Adelaida winery's orchard on a hill, with rolling grassy hills in the foreground, under a clear blue sky in San Luis Obispo. — Slope Serenade: A Symphony of Shadows and Light: This scene captures the heart of San Luis Obispo – Adelaida winery’s neatly arranged orchard rises towards a clear blue sky, contrasted with rolling grassy swells and randomly placed dormant trees in the foreground. The late afternoon light casts deep shadows, enriching the colors and depth of the scene.

It was that transition period between when the dream ended, and my brain realized that none of it made sense. Even though my eyes were still closed, I could tell it was getting light outside. The sparrows that live outside our window were bragging to the world that they had survived the night with their monotonous and repetitive one-note song. Their cheerfulness was annoying, and I wanted to get up and prove them wrong. My eyes opened, and I was startled to see a pair of terrifyingly familiar green eyes inches from my face piercing into my soul. “Where are you taking me for our anniversary this year?” she declared.

And so it began—our yearly Where-We-Going debate. It always starts with me suggesting picturesque destinations where I’d love to capture photos. In response, Anne dismisses each of my ideas with a wave of her hand and a flimsy excuse for why it won’t work. Eventually, the routine is settled when her eyes turn to her computer screen, scanning her travel-deal website. She comes to me with deals she’s found online, and we pick the best-sounding offers. But, when one of the Cambria hotels flashes a special offer, the debate ends abruptly, and we always seem to put it above all the others. I sometimes wonder why we even contemplate other locations. Cambria has our hearts, and with each visit, our love for it grows.

San Luis Obispo County holds a special place in our hearts, like a second home we never owned but always felt belonged to us. Each visit brings a sense of familiarity, a comforting assurance as if I’m retracing steps I’ve walked in another life. You see, there’s something about the central coast that’s magnetic. Its diverse landscapes, from the untamed coastlines where waves crash like thunderous applause against the rugged cliffs to the vineyards cascading over the rolling hills like emerald tapestries, invite us to immerse ourselves in a masterpiece of nature’s artistry.

Among the many charming towns in San Luis Obispo County, our favorite home base is Cambria. Nestled where the majestic pines meet the sea, Cambria embodies a unique enchantment. It’s coastal charm and small-town atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for our adventures. From strolling along Moonstone Beach, where the waves gently caress the shore, to exploring the quaint shops and art galleries in the historic East Village, Cambria feels like our personal sanctuary.

Honestly, the natural allure of the trip is the wine tasting—that’s a given. But if I negotiate an additional free day, the photographic opportunities in San Luis Obispo County are boundless. Nestled between the valleys of the inland and the majestic Coastal Range, San Luis Obispo County unfolds like a treasure trove of visual poetry, offering a kaleidoscope of subjects for my lenses to capture, each frame a brushstroke on the canvas of memories.

Securing that additional day, it’s a win-win for both of us. We get to explore fresh corners of the county, indulge in yet another incredible evening of indulgence, and gather a trove of memories to share with you; in the end, everyone’s content. And as they say—a happy wife means a husband that gets to live another day. We always leave with smiles and anticipation for the next visit.

And it’s not just the visual and culinary delights that captivate us. The welcoming spirit of the people we encounter during our visits adds an extra layer of warmth to the experience. From the passionate winemakers eager to share their stories to the locals who greet us with open hearts, their genuine hospitality further enriches our journey.

Thank you for taking the time to join us on this journey and being part of our story. This week’s photograph captures a piece of the enchantment that San Luis Obispo County holds for us. The orderly orchard, the wild grass, the deep shadows under the trees… It’s a tale of balance and contrast, where the ordered and the wild coexist. You can check out Slope Serenade’s web version here (https://www.jimwitkowski.com/newWork/orchird.html).

Next week, we’ll delve deeper into our adventures in San Luis Obispo County, sharing more stories and photos from this beautiful part of the world. Until then, keep exploring, keep dreaming, and remember every journey starts with a single step.

Till next time
Jw

Technique: Learning to See Light and Shapes

This week’s photograph shows how paying attention to light can make your pictures more interesting. The photo was taken in the late afternoon when the sun was starting to set. This type of light is often called “golden hour” and casts long, deep shadows under the orchard trees. Those shadows add depth, making the trees look more three-dimensional and the scene more dramatic.

When taking a photo, it’s essential to consider how the light interacts with your scene. In this picture, the golden hour light highlights the rich green color of the orchard, which stands out against the more natural, brownish color of the wild grass in the foreground. That contrast helps to separate the two areas and draw attention to the orchard.

Morgan Estate Temecula, California

Morgan Estate - The Morgan family has lived in this home since 2002, and five years ago they spruced up the place for their daughter's wedding. It went so well that they opened the estate for weddings of patrons that can afford the ante. Since then, it's become a popular place to get hitched. — Morgan Estate – The Morgan family has lived in this home since 2002, and five years ago, they spruced up the place for their daughter’s wedding. It went so well that they opened the estate for weddings of patrons that could afford the ante. Since then, it’s become a popular place for couples to get hitched.

When Queen Anne and I embark on photo shoots requiring an overnight stay, we try to indulge in a fancy dinner to express our mutual appreciation. While we rely on websites such as Trip Advisor for dining recommendations, we’ve noticed that they often suggest generic options like burgers, pizzas, or Mexican food, neglecting many exceptional dining spots in the region, especially those nestled within wineries.

These winery restaurants may be pricey but they offer a unique dining experience. The chefs here are culinary maestros, creating gastronomic masterpieces with each dish. They provide upscale and luxurious options for special occasions and are an essential stop for wine lovers. Amongst the many wineries in Temecula, Leoness Cellars stands out as a must-visit spot.

Leoness Cellars’ tasting room is like an adult Disneyland, with more wine and fewer screaming children. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the vineyard equivalent of a fairytale castle, except there’s a sparkling fountain instead of a moat. And instead of knights in shining armor, a team of friendly wine experts is ready to guide you through the tasting experience.

Its floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the vineyards. They have an extensive selection of wines to suit any palate, from rich and bold reds to crisp and refreshing whites. And if you’re feeling intimidated by the complex world of wine, their friendly wine experts are on hand to guide you through the tasting experience of a lifetime. The tasting room is more like a sophisticated wine cave, with rustic wooden tables and cozy leather chairs, perfect for relaxing while you savor the unique flavors.

One of the most exceptional features of Leoness Cellars is the food pairing experience. It’s an absolute match made in culinary heaven – the wines are expertly paired with small bites, leaving your taste buds in pure bliss. The experience is so indulgent that you might even be tempted to make out with your glass of wine (but please don’t; that’s weird). During our visit, Queen Anne and I paid $25.00 to share a flight of 6, and we savored the 2021 Viognier, the 2018 Meritage, and the 2018 Syrah—my favorite. We did notice that the pouring sizes, in general, are getting skimpier. To put it in perspective, imagine getting your favorite wine glass from the cupboard and spitting into it a couple of times; that should give you an idea of the serving size. We realized we were being pathetic when our hostess had to stop us from elbowing each other to get to the glass first.

After the tasting, we went to the restaurant patio for lunch. We ordered full glasses of the wines that impressed us, savoring each sip and bite while basking in the warm sun. The day couldn’t get any better with full bellies, fine wine, and a picturesque view—except for maybe a nap.

I hope that this week’s photo, titled Morgan Estate, captures the natural beauty and sophistication of Temecula’s wine country. The lush wine groves in the foreground and the majestic Santa Ana Mountains in the background create a stunning backdrop for the photo’s focal point – the Morgan Estate. I took this photo from the restaurant patio during lunch when I couldn’t resist snapping a shot of this breathtaking view. It’s the kind of view that makes you want to grab a glass of wine and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings.

The Morgan Estate is a popular wedding venue in the area, and it’s easy to see why. The estate’s sophisticated elegance perfectly complements the region’s natural beauty, making it the ideal spot for brides to slap on that ball-and-chain. From the vantage point of the restaurant patio, you can appreciate the estate’s grandeur beneath the majesty of the Santa Ana Mountains. I tried to encapsulate the region’s allure in the photo- from the vineyards’ rolling hills to the estate’s sophisticated charm. I hope my photo encourages you to get off your couch and plan a trip to Temecula to enjoy your slice of La Vita.

Leoness Tractor - The cellar's owners drug this old tractor out from the barn as yard-art. — Leoness Tractor – The owners of the cellar drug this old tractor from the barn as yard art.

You can see a larger version of Morgan Estate on its web page by clicking here. Next week—after I dry out—we’ll begin April’s series of show-and-tell. Come back then and see where the road takes us.

Till next time
jw

BTW:

Visiting wineries and sampling their offerings has brought us joy over the years. While putting together this month’s project, we’ve considered the idea of writing reviews for each of the farms that we visited. However, with over 40 cellars open for tasting in Temecula alone, we couldn’t visit them all without having my liver shrivel and fall out. During this trip, we paced ourselves and saw a couple of places in the morning, had lunch, and then stopped at another two in the afternoon. We found that the wine flavors began to run together if we visited more than that.

I’m considering an idea for a book that covers all the regions we’ve visited. However, putting together a book covering five vineyards in each of the 15 California wine regions with five pages of photos and text would be monumental. The book would be over 300 pages long. Instead, I’m considering breaking the task into bite-sized pieces and publishing them in a magazine format, similar to my Utah State Route 12 magazine. Each publication would have about 50 pages, making them more affordable than hardcover books. I would publish three or four per year, leaving me time for other assignments.

I’m interested in hearing your thoughts. Would you like to see a project like this? Or would you prefer that I stick to pretty landscapes and roadside relics and never talk about wine again? Please share your comments below, and while you’re there, click on the “Like” button if you enjoyed this post. Don’t worry; no one will know you did it.

Vineyards in the Afternoon Sun Temecula, California

Over the past few weeks, I’ve shown you pictures of Riverside County’s idyllic countryside and recounted the story of my last visit and how much things have changed. So, I hear you asking me, “You and Queen Anne drove four hours to Temecula for wine tasting. Get on with it.” OK. Put the gun down; I surrender. As you can see, this week’s photo—called Vineyards in the Afternoon Sun—is finally a vineyard shot, so let’s talk about the wine and why they can produce fine wines in the otherwise hot and dry Southern California Desert.

Temecula Wine Country in Southern California covers over 33,000 acres and boasts over 40 wineries producing world-renowned wines. The region’s ideal grape-growing conditions are due to its Mediterranean climate, granite-rich soil, and unique geography shaped by the San Jacinto Fault Zone and the Santa Ana Mountains. The area’s rich history dates back to the indigenous Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, the first to plant grapevines and make wine in the region.

The Santa Ana and San Jacinto Mountains—the snow-covered mountain in last week’s shot—offer stunning natural scenery and are popular destinations for outdoor recreation; they were formed due to tectonic activity associated with the San Andreas Fault system. Despite being part of the same geological formation, they have distinct differences in their ecology and climate. Today, both mountain ranges are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, making them an essential part of Southern California’s ecology.

Temecula, Southern California’s wine-growing region, owes its distinct wine flavors to its terroir, a combination of soil, climate, and topography. The region’s decomposed granite and clay loam soil provides the ideal conditions for grape growing, while the warm weather and ample sunshine result in rich, full-bodied red wines and fruity white wines. The region’s topography creates a range of microclimates that influence grape flavor, with vines planted on steep slopes producing concentrated flavors and those grown in the valley producing fruit-forward wines. Sustainable farming practices and high elevation contribute to healthier grapes and complex flavors.

Temecula’s wine country has a rich history, with Spanish missionaries planting the first grapevines in the late 1700s. However, it was in the mid-1960s that the modern wine industry began to take shape. Today, Temecula is a bustling tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to taste the region’s award-winning wines and soak up the stunning scenery. Visitors can also explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy countless opportunities to taste some of the region’s finest wines.

In January, Queen Anne and I had the pleasure of embarking on a three-day adventure in Temecula Wine Country, and it was an absolute blast! The rolling hills, endless vineyards, and charming tasting rooms with picturesque outdoor patios immediately struck us. From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in a boozy frenzy that we won’t forget. Despite increasing anties, we indulged in incredible wines, taking in stunning views of the valley and experiencing the utmost charm of each unique tasting room we visited. We highly recommend this unforgettable experience, but a word of caution: after a glass or five, be sure not to drive. I strongly encourage you to visit this stunning region and toast its past and future success. But remember to snap some photos for your social media feeds – after all if you don’t post about it, did it occur?

Flower Barrels - A vintner has repurposed old wine barrels as flower pots along the patio. — Flower Barrels – A vintner has repurposed old wine barrels as flower pots along the patio.

As usual, you can see a larger version of Vineyards in the Afternoon Sun on its web page by clicking here. Next week’s chat gets even more specific when we review the last tasting room on our tour. You won’t want to miss it.

Till next time

San Jacinto Field Temecula, California

San Jacinto Field - The snow covered San Jacinto Peak dominates the skyline near Temecula, California. — San Jacinto Field – The snow-covered San Jacinto Peak dominates the skyline near Temecula, California.

Long before I moved to Arizona—before my time in the Army—I used to enter rallies driving my 64 Ford Falcon. For my non-gearhead readers, a car rally is a competition where the hosting club plans a pleasant drive through the countryside. A driver’s job is to follow directions at a given speed and arrive at checkpoints on time. At the same time, the event chairperson purposefully writes the instructions as vague as possible for back roads that are impossible to drive at the speed they’re talking about. Each team is scored by how many seconds off you arrive at checkpoints behind schedule—if you can even stay on course.

I mention this because, in last week’s comments, our friend Gary brought up an “uphill-in-both-directions-in-the-snow” moment—in other words, his later recollections of Temecula Valley. It reminded me of the only previous time I visited the farms and fields of Riverside County was during one of these rallies.

In the October between high school graduation and joining the Army, we’d pilgrimage to the legendary Riverside International Raceway to attend the annual Can-Am race sponsored by the Los Angeles Times. In those days, Can-Am cars were the cutting edge of racing technology, having big brutish American engines shoehorned into tiny European chassis. I was an apostle. I didn’t know it then, but in 1969 Uncle Sam was reaching for my shirt collar, so my teenage days were numbered.

As that summer ended, I was already planning a long October weekend at the racetrack. The So-Cal Sports Car Club was staging a pre-race time-distance rally in Riverside, culminating with two laps around the track. I don’t remember why my usual navigator wasn’t available, but I recruited the older brother of one of my friends because he wanted to see the race and said he could read directions.

For brevity’s sake, all I will say about that event was that it started in the Shakey’s Pizza parking lot across the street from Riverside’s stunning Mission Inn on a cool, damp, and foggy Sunday morning. The course layout took us past Hemet, Moreno Valley, and Perris towns. We couldn’t see more than a thousand feet of road through the grey murk. We missed the mountains, fields, and trees dotting the countryside, but we did pass cherry stands that I was sure I’d return to someday. My navigator and I got hopelessly lost and behind schedule, so we threw in the towel and drove to the last known checkpoint with our tails between our legs. We rejoined the group at an infield staging area and thought, “At least we’d get a couple of timed laps around the track.”

You already know what’s next, don’t you? The laps weren’t time trials as I had imagined. It was a painful parade of rally drivers behind a slow pace car at 25 mph. Everyone was holding back to get a run at the turns by the second lap. The pack of cars looked like a hobbled caterpillar trying to make its way along a cherry tree branch. At the time, it was genuinely humiliating. I wanted to show Jim, Dan, Mark, Bruce, and Roger how good I was. Now, it’s amusing.

As Gary mentioned last week, that part of California is different now. The two-lane back roads we sped down are now eight-lane freeways with crowded off-ramps. The rural fruit stands have been replaced with Costco, CVS, LA Fitness, and car dealerships. The pristine mountain ridges are lined with rows of McMansions that look like pop-up targets at a rifle range. With clusters of boxy tract homes, Temecula Valley has become another typical So-Cal suburb.

Queen Anne and I spent time driving between housing developments during our January visit and saw a glimpse of the past. In this week’s photo, you can see the open spaces we found by Lake Skinner. In the shot that I call San Jacinto Field, the foreground is dominated by a field left fallow this season. In the near background, you see low-elevation mountains—Bachelor Mountain (2470) on the left and Black Mountain (3051) on the right. Covered in the snow in the far distance is San Jacinto Peak (10,834), which is over 50 miles as the crow flies. It’s much further if you walk. This photo was taken a month before California recently got slammed with two heavy snowfalls. I’m sure the top is even brighter white at this writing.

Wine Glasses - A sample of red and white wines while enjoying lunch at one of Temecula's Vineyards. — Wine Glasses – A sample of red and white wines while enjoying lunch at one of Temecula’s Vineyards.

Like always, you can see a larger version of San Jacinto Field on its web page by clicking here. Be sure to return next week when we drive up the wine-country valleys and visit some vineyards.

Till next time
jw