Another great San Diego Volvo Club (VSA) adventure hosted by Mike Menghini.

   The hallmark of this annua1  event is the three and one-half hour expedition leading to the Menghini Winery in Julian.

   The expedition began at the COCO's cafe in Escondido.  

   The stouthearted caravan included a P1900, a 1800ES and two 1800's.

   Scott Harrison lead this band of intrepid travelers through the winding terrain of the San Pasqual Valley, stopping at the famous Dudley's bakery & deli for a pit stop.

   The Volvo cortege then headed through the Los Pinos mountains characterized by its switch-back topography with its many hair-pin turns. The perfect challenge for the gallant little Volvos.

   Down from the mountains, the caravan reached the rolling hills of wine country, concluding at the Menghini winery.

   Once at the winery, the Volvo fleet was joined by six more Volvos, including another 1800ES, a 740, and four more 1800's.

  This event included a family picnic, horseshoes, and the tasting of fine California Menghini wines.

   As and added bonus, the event was shared with the  Cortina Club (British Ford).

  They were a very congenial group and the two clubs exchanged many tall tales.

   With all the tales told and the suds gone, the weary band of travelers departed heading into the sunset.

   A great time was had by all

     Once upon a mid-day weary in the merry month of May, not so long ago on a cold and balmy morn' a brave band of Volvoites gathered peacefully in a lush meadow just below the .famed Menghini Castle located in the land of Julian to partake in their annual clansman ritual of tasting the fruit-of-the-Gods.

     Then suddenly out of the mist, appearing one-by-one, a rag-tag pack of courageous formed, striking their British Banners, claiming their seemingly rightful territory.

     But alas, a reserve force of Sveedish Chariots emerged, flanking the invading Brits. Both clans stood their ground and began darting glances of bewilderment from their respective positions. What form could these strange modes of travel be, they queried each other?

     Suddenlly without solicitation, a flag-of-truce appeared and all gathered round the warmth of the sacred Menghini ring-of-fire for spiritual guidance.

     A celebration of Merriment was declared, gifts of suds and malted brew were exchanged along with the telling of many-a-tall-tale. Once again peace and tranquility reigned over the green pastures of Menghinidom and between the two opposing clans.

     Faint sounds were heard emanating from the Castle of Menghini. It is rumored that it was that of the ghosts of Sir Michael and Lady Toni (guardians of the castle) clinking their wine goblets denoting the passing-of-time and that the hour-of-darkness would soon be approaching.

    Taking heed of this warning the Brits and Sveeds raised their glasses high toasting good cheer and biding each ado. "Good day to all and to all a good day" they proclaimed. The Cortinastines and Volvoites parted company heading into the sunset  (only some day to return).

     A good time was had by all and they lived happily ever after.

    Written by Volvoite clansman and possessor of the eldest (P1900) "plastic chariot."