A little off the beaten path yet worth the trip, Burrell School Vineyards and Winery are pouring wine in this beautifully maintained historic schoolhouse.

Or just to taste the view. 

But to taste the award winning wines. Staying true to their space and its history, they have adopted a few scholastic practices. Here’s where you can find out if you identify with a Teacher’s Pet or Valedictorian. Burrell School’s Spring Break Syrah has the hallmark flavors of a coastal climate Syrah with even a hint of chocolate mint. Merlot growing near the coast gets longer hang time bringing out their big cherry profiles with amazing body and well integrated structure and balance of tannins and acids.

More appellation adventures from my month in this region.