2005-09-23
by Millie Howie
Did you know that a cartophile is one who is intrigued by maps of all kinds from almost any era – ancient to modern? Henry Wendt, who has enjoyed that designation for nearly 40 years believes his passion for collecting antique maps was born when he purchased a detailed map of South Asia, published in 1742, for $16 in a shop in Tokyo.
A portion of what has now grown to be the Quivira Collection is handsomely displayed in what was the former tasting room at Quivira Winery, owned by Henry and his wife Holly. With the title “Mapping the Pacific Coast” the maps and illustrations in the winery show span the centuries between 1540 and 1802 and tell the story of the discovery of the Northwest as related by the explorers of those days. An informative brochure accompanies the show, and beside each map is a magnifying glass to help the visitor enjoy all the fine details of the drawings. Another, larger portion of the collection has been assembled as a traveling exhibition showing at museums across the country as part of the bicentennial celebration of the Lewis& Clark expedition.
Visitors enjoy combining a gallery tour with the beauty and relaxed comfort of the new hospitality center. The undulating curves of the slate-colored bar put guests in the perfect position to relish a panoramic vineyard view. The tasting list serves as a road map leading the guests to many unique discoveries of their own as they sample complimentary tastes of a Sauvignon Blanc that has earned a string of high awards, and a collection of reds including several vineyard designate Zins, a limited production Petite Sirah, and the exciting Steelhead Red – a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah and Zin.
A generous discount program makes wine purchases particularly enticing bargains, and by joining Club Q even greater savings may be realized, along with recipes to add to your culinary repertoire, winemaker comments and gala parties. There is, of course, no membership fee.
Denise Rose, hospitality manager has been very selective in stocking her shelves with unusual gift items that provide something for everyone from designer shirts to Raspberry Syrah Chocolate Sauce. Her well-stocked information corner provides a host of suggestions for further explorations of the vineyard and recreational areas that surround the winery, and the computer corner allows visitors to take “tours” of the vineyards, check out cellar notes, read the Quivira Newsletter or sign up for Club Q. On returning home, a great website at www.quivirawine.com continues the exploration.
Tasting room hours at Quivira Winery, in the heart of Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley at 4900 West Dry Creek Road, are 11 a.m. till five p.m. daily. To talk to a winery staffer in person just call (707) 431-8333.
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