One of the Club's most popular events in the past continued to be well attended. Despite a threatened rainy day, the event was attended by 14 people in 9 cars, of which 7 were trusty vintage Volvos. We had a nice mix of 3- P1800Ss, 2- P1800ES wagons, a 122 wagon, a P1900 and a newer S70, allied by a relatively new Ford (sorry, Bob). The day was chilly and blustery with only a hint of sunshine, but the skies gradually cleared in time for an outdoor picnic lunch. Dave Hunt made it out with his rare P1900, and, in a display of bravery, kept the top down for the entire day. (Where were you newer Volvo owners with three-speed heater fans and factory warranties still in place?) As has become typical for Volvo events, the cars performed beautifully. Even my 122 wagon, which hadn't been driven that far for some time, hummed happily along without any (apparent) problems, although the long trip up I-15 reminded me that I still need to consider installing an overdrive to give the engine a break at freeway speeds.

As planned, the Orange County contingent met the San Diego crowd near the off-ramp at Temecula, giving everyone a chance to break out and compare windbreakers and other cold weather clothing. Then it was off to the first stop, Keyways Winery, where we were met by the cordial founder and owner of the establishment, Carl Keys. The winery tasting room holds an eclectic mix of memorabilia ranging from farm implements to toy trains to doll houses, no doubt collected over many years by the owner, who lives on the estate. A wonderful old bar with a copper top, rescued by the Mr. Keys from an Old Town Temecula drinking establishment, serves as the tasting counter. The photos above highlight the pastoral view from the parking lot of the winery, where horses grazed nearby.

The it was on to the next stop, Temecula Crest Winery, via a series of scenic back roads past ranches, orange groves and vineyards, for more tasting. Temecula Crest's tasting room offered a sizeable list of locally grown and cellared wines, plus various wine-related accessories. Additional stops included Stuart Cellars and Mount Palomar, where we were able to enjoy the outdoor patio for lunch. Both Stuart and Mount Palomar offer a large and unusual assortment of wines and accessories, including rare bottles of port and even port-filled chocolates at Stuart (yum).  Mt. Palomar boasts a complete deli counter where patrons can buy a freshly made sandwich, various salads, or snack on crusty foccaccia bread with a favorite cheese. Most of the group took advantage of this opportunity and purchased various goodies before gathering on the patio for fresh air and conversation.

Each winery we visited offered a different mix of wines and decor, thanks to the efforts of Del Skoog, who put together a very interesting tour. If you missed it, you missed out on a nice outing and the chance to get together with fellow Volvo enthusiasts from other locations. Out of town attendees included Mark Yarbrough and kids from Swedish Speed in Perris (our host for the upcoming event in March 27), prospective members Alex and friend from Visalia, and, of course, Dave Hunt from Anaheim. Thanks to Del Skoog for coordinating a successful event once again. Hope to see all of you next year, when we'll tour another group of wineries.