The weather on Wednesday was brisk but dry, making it perfect driving conditions for the 40+ cars that set out at 9am on the Scenic Drive. Using our, now standard, Tulip Format directions the group headed out on a loop of around Palomar Mountain with a mid-point stop in the historic town of Julian.
The outbound drive on CA76 went through the Pauma Valley, through a piece of the Cleveland National Forest and past Lake Henshaw before climbing to over 4200 feet to reach the old gold mining town.
Julian, a California Historical Landmark (#412), is now much more famous for its apples and the pies and other pastries produced therefrom. The altitude and cool winter weather make this one of the few areas in the state suitable for apple growing. A steady stream of visitors call on The Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pies at all times of the day to sample their wares. Several in our group partook, and as I said at the earlier Driver’s Meeting, “it’s never too early for pie!” The return route took us around the opposite side of Palomar on Hwy 79 and through the Temecula Valley Wine Country before arriving at the Wilson Creek Winery where over fifty guests had signed up for the Private Winery Tour and Tasting. I heard many comments that this was the best winery tour some had ever taken. Apparently the five tasting stops along the way didn’t hurt! A goodly number of our group took advantage of the tasting room and wine shop, as well as the Creekside Grille. Wilson Creek is known for its sparkling wines and they kindly contributed two bottles of their most popular “Almond Champagne” to the Silent Auction.
After lunch it was back the hotel for some R&R. An informal meeting was held for those planning to attend Conclave this September with lots of good information shared amongst the group. After that, it was time to get cleaned up and dressed for the night’s Cowboy BBQ at the Stone House. Almost ninety attended and enjoyed the old west ambiance, outstanding 18-hour brisket, and some table game fun courtesy of Sandy and Ron Davies.
A good day at Healey Week.