Stop at the One Maple Winery, of course.
We have passed this winery several times, stopped once or twice, but it (appeared that it) was closed... this time we were in luck: not only was it open but we were the only people there to taste on a beautiful fall afternoon. Sure enough, there is one maple tree, and it was a blazing red torch, guiding us in.
The owner, Ernie Bell, was a really great, hospitable guy, and we had such a nice time talking with him we almost did not get around to actually tasting the wines. He grows all of his own grapes on 12 acres (I think he said twelve.) and his wine making equipment is right there, scattered around for you to see. The grounds are charming, just the sort of place to sit and drink with a few friends.
I tried three of the reds, and really liked the smell of each of them. I don't know... something earthy, I guess woody about them; almost like a cedar chest smell, but in a really good way. My favorite was the Cabernet, and I ended up with a bottle of that. Gail stuck with the whites, and she walked away with a bottle of the Pinto Gris.
This is a place we will have to revisit with friends!
One Maple Winery: 299 W out of Redding, the second Lewiston turn off (onto Lewiston Road). Turn right, go about 1.3 miles.
Next time you are going by, just ask yourself: WWBD?