BY STEPH KEAY
HauteTRAVEL
HEALDSBURG: THE HEART OF SONOMA COUNTY SONOMA STRONG
all, the folks of Sonoma County were unflinchingly sunny, presenting a unified front in
A SUN-BLEACHED SIGN DECLARING “THANK YOU, FIREFIGHTERS!” FLAPS IN THE
exigency then and as wine country recovers now.
wind off Highway 101, one of the few lingering reminders of the Kincade Fire of 2019. Not
Touring the area several months later with local winemaker Nick of Goldschmidt
long after the fires began, I sped up to Sonoma County Fairgrounds with World Central
Vineyards, he points out the hills where the fire began rolling down last October. Today,
Kitchen to churn out as many meals as possible for the endlessly brave first responders
there’s hardly a trace of the tragedy. Where smoke once lingered, a dewy mist now blan-
battling the blaze. The mood? Surprisingly upbeat, despite the imminent threat. As the
kets several thousand acres of grapes surrounding the charming town of Healdsburg. Its
flurry of activity died down through the week and the fire reached 100 percent contain-
residents have slipped back into a familiar routine, but the mighty sense of community
ment, even the thin veil of smoke hanging in the air had all but dissipated. Through it
remains apparent year-round, personified by the chefs, winemakers, and artisans who
Jordan Winery’s luxury estate tour takes guests through its sustainable vineyards, scenic vistas, chef’s garden, apiary, and more
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PHOTO CREDIT: DESTINATION NEW SOUTH WALES
After the harrowing Kincade Fire, this beatific Northern California town is not only surviving, but truly thriving.
