Yesterday I was able to enjoy two of my favorite things-Indycar and wine. My husband and I were able to escape for a short getaway to San Francisco. We spent our first day at Muir Woods but yesterday ventured into wine country. The visitor center was right next to Meadowcroft tasting room. Tom Meadowcroft makes the wine for Foyt Family Wines. Unfortunately the tasting room wasn’t open yet so we left Sonoma and drove to Napa. First stop there was Andretti Winery. I got a history lesson on Mario Andretti and enjoyed a tasting. Steve was enjoying learning about the process and did try one sip. The pourer was very gracious and allowed me to talk Indycar even though he was not a fan. Another employee went the extra step though and gave me two corks and four wine labels. I felt like I won the lottery.
Lunch was eaten at Subway but I didn’t argue as Steve had already endured wine, Indycar and antiquing. We drove back to Sonoma and went directly to Meadowcroft. After the first taste (I planned to try all of the Foyt wines) Steve excused himself to take a nap in the car. Fortunately other tasters were there and I did make some small talk with them. After finishing my tasting I ordered a glass of the Foyt Chardonnay and perused the Foyt cork key chains which were brought out specifically for me. I made my purchase and sat outside enjoying a fire also started just for me. I promptly tweeted my location and enjoyment of the day. However while on twitter I made a shocking although somewhat expected discovery. Dario Franchitti would be retiring from Indycar. Dario’s accident in Houston was so horrific and terrifying. It was way to reminiscent of Dan Weldon’s tragic and fatal accident. I held my breath until I learned he was ok and even then faithfully followed the news and twitter for updates on his condition. While I am heartbroken to see him leave this sport he loves- especially just as he and TK were to be teammates- I am eternally thankful that he is able to walk away and am eager to see what his next role in Indycar will be.
So as I sat down to enjoy my Foyt wine this what not the news I was expecting. I continued to sip my wine and read dozens of tributes to Dario and enjoyed reminiscing over his career. A bit ironic that as I read all the well wishes I was reminded of the booing heard for him in Milwaukee in 2012 and the frequent butchering of his name but was glad that so many have put that behind them and acknowledge the amazing career he had and give him the respect he deserves. I always have been and will remain a fan of Dario Franchitti. I hope this next chapter in his life is full of exciting ventures and new challenges and that he is grateful everyday for what he has.
Steve woke up from his nap and joined me by the fire pit. We took some pictures by the Foyt pictures and ventured on to a non Indycar winery. I think Steve was relived but my mind would linger on the sport I love so much and prayers were said for the safety of all the drivers and the new ventures in Dario’s career.
ikissedthebricks 