We got back to the fairgrounds around 1:00 pm and the party was just beginning. For as long as I can remember the end of the ride is serenaded by a well-known and loved band, Mumbo Gumbo. They play a music that is somewhere between reggae, Caribbean and island style that is just perfect for dancing. They have a pretty large following in the area and many join the bike riders for the party. The park has a large lawn and picnic area and there are usually a lot of folks sitting on blankets or in the bleachers near the band area eating the after meal dinner and often enjoying a well earned beer from the local Rotary club truck. A great end to a great day!

The Wineries and Touring:
But this is a wine site and let's talk about the wineries in the area as well as some of the other highlights in the area that are worth staying a second day in the area. The closest winery to the start of the ride is Clos du Lac, just south down Hwy 124 about a mile and then turn toward the west, you can't miss it on the right. The grounds are masterfully landscaped to match the French Country Chateau style of the winery as well as the natural beauty of the area. The first time we visited here they were in the middle of crush but the winemaker took the time to let us taste the juice as it came off the Petite Sirah grapes. It was the most incredible purple color and boy was it delicious and surprisingly sweet. If you are lucky when you are in the tasting room one of the winemakers will pop in and answer a few questions. Its definitely a winery that's worth the stop.

Another close by winery is to the north of Ione on Hwy 124 called Convergence. The owners and winemakers are Stephen and Jamie Concannon are very gracious people and love to share their lovely wines with guests. The 105 acre site is located on the confluence of three creeks with lovely views of the vine covered hillsides. Take the time to make the drive up to the winery and regroup from your hard days ride with a bottle of their wine one of the strategically placed picnic tables.

Close to Convergence, off Hwy 124 on Willow Creek Road, is Nua Dair. Located in the scenic pastureland of the area, the tasting room is in the barrel room. This is a particularly friendly winery with great enthusiasm for their wines. Try a few, I think you'll agree.

If you are making a loop, continue north to Hwy 16, go east a short distance and turn south on Hwy 49. After about a mile you will come to Drytown winery, located on a hilltop overlooking the neighboring vineyards. Its not uncommon to find one of the winery owner's working in the tasting room and always willing to discuss their latest wines. Continued ...