#MendoStrong

Compared to Napa and Sonoma counties, very few #MendoStrong signs can be seen, now that it has been weeks since the wine country fires occurred, reports Mendocino County color spotter Walt Gabler.

Walt was a first responder on the fire team; he found the small American flag (at left) in the area devastated by fire. It was surrounded by ash and discolored, but unburned.

Similar to Napa and Sonoma counties, fall color is now emerging in Mendocino County’s vineyards.

Finding it requires driving slowly along country roads near vineyards and looking for vines that are turning color. Some are Patchy, some Near Peak, some Peaking and some Past Peak.

Do not enter vineyards without permission. They’re all private property, even if not posted (which they rarely are). Though, it is not necessary to enter a vineyard to see or photograph fall color, as it is readily seen along their edges.

And, if you don’t find fall color in the vineyards, then go wine tasting or go mushroom foraging in the woods (just know what mushrooms are safe to pick).

Either way, you return with an enjoyable day in Mendocino County.

Mendocino County – Near Peak (50-75%) GO NOW!