Wandering and wine in the Alexander Valley

One of the best spots for a picnic with a vineyard view is at Field Stone Winery and Vineyard  (10075 State 128; 707/433-7266), an underground winery built into an oak tree-covered knoll.

Forget your picnic fixings? Stop in at the Jimtown Store  (6706 State 128; 707/433-1212). You can buy wine, sandwiches, and deli foods, including the store's own fig and olive spread, or step into the back room to shop for colorful folk art. Folk art in a grocery store? Why not ― in the Alexander Valley, anything goes.

Relaxed roaming

WHERE: Geyserville is 75 miles north of San Francisco; take U.S. 101 to the Geyserville exit (State 128 east).

LODGING:  Geyserville Inn. Spacious and comfortable rooms next to vineyards. From $100. 21714 Geyserville Ave.; (877) 857-4343, or (707) 857-4343.

CONTACT:  Healdsburg Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, (707) 433-6935. Russian River Wine Road, (800) 723-6336.