This story originally appeared in the Napa Valley Register. I am writing my column this week from Montepulciano, where I just finished being a judge at A Tavola con il Vino It...

When visiting Sonoma, where does one get started wine tasting? As a region, Sonoma County encompasses more than fifty miles from Carneros in the south to Cloverdale in the north....

Heading up to Sonoma to go wine tasting? Well, then you need some recommendations as to where to eat. The Sonoma Square, the largest plaza in California, is home to a number of winery tasting rooms but also restaurants. When you are finished tasting wine, check out these three restaurants. Not only are these restaurants showcasing the freshest local, seasonal produce but they each also offers charming outdoor patios where you can enjoy your meal. the girl and the fig 110 West Spain Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 The girl and the fig is a quintessential wine country restaurant. This iconic restaurant, owned by Sondra Bernstein, recently celebrated its 19 year anniversary. This restaurant, with strong French influences, features creative and delicious dishes. If you are a fan of figs, try the Fig and Arugula Salad and for dessert the Chocolate Dipped Figs. And for the wine lovers, the list shows its love for Rhone wines with wines from both France and California. The Fig and Arugula Salad with toasted pecans, mano formate pancetta, laura chenel chevre, fig and port vinaigrette is a classic wine country salad and a good start to any meal. 
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