It was two days into September; a hot and dry Wednesday afternoon. A typical middle of the week day, except that today was to be a Satori day. Typical? We would soon prove the day wrong. We left work early and drove south, into a golden valley of hills, halfway expecting tumble weeds to float past us as we headed down the highway. Mitch was skeptical as we took curving turns this way and that way... passing sheds and empty lots. I kept promising that this would be an experience to remember. Afterall, my new friend had invited us so generously & I couldn't imagine that such a wonderful person could be overexagerating about this Satori Vineyard. And then there it was... The lush green vines spread out over the land, an oasis in the middle of the desert. We drove up, excited to see bright colors and my friend waiting for us.

From the wine making room, with its soft music playing for the barrels in the background, to the labryinth twisting and turning to its center, we were enchanted by the simplicity of Satori. But its simplicity was nothing short of magical. The dry air felt intoxicating as we walked along the rows and rows of vines. We felt so welcomed and grateful to be apart of such a special place, if even for an afternoon. And then came the tastings. How lucky we were, and are, to have stumbled upon such bliss!!! I instantly fell in love with Merlot of the Violet Flame, as well as the Petite Sirah Ha-Ha and the Ta-Da Syrah. Ta-Da Ha-Ha indeed! Mitch was quickly enamored with Satori's Chardonnay of the Pink-Ray. But perhaps the best part of all was the hospitality and love that we felt sitting with the winemakers of this beautiful place. Tom, Sandy & co. felt like old friends. And as dog lovers, we felt their handsome brood of pups hanging around the yard was the perfect touch.

 A few hours quickly slipped by, as they often do with a glass or two of delicious wine, good company, and a warm breeze. We left feeling relaxed, rejuvenated... even inspired... it truly was an afternoon filled with SATORI.

And, for the record, the wishes and prayers I said to myself throughout my walk in the labryinth, came true. Each and every one. I will be back as soon as I can.