Hi Don,

Ah, this time I got to do the research. So here's the link to the scientific info about Mt. Konocti.

While that's good to know, I'll do it by the travel scene that really makes this area special. Mt. Konocti is a resort area, which utilizes those geothermal springs and the financial moguls have now taken over the entirety of Sonoma/Napa/Lake Counties in making spa's only afforable to the well do to do. There is nothing around these area's for under $150 per night and most of them are far more than that.

The structures of these spa resorts are formidable, elegant and grand and not unlike the country houses you find for local vinyards as well. An English Tudor mansion upon a high hill overlooking the crop or a formidable stone structure are not uncommon in this area.

One thing I pointed out to Don on our recent trip north is that there is no plot of ground to small to be considered eligible for a vineyard. I'm sure there must be some kind of co-op involved in this type of business, but no longer are vast sprawling farmlands a view point. Now every house is surrounded by vineyards.

Personally, I don't believe in putting all of one's eggs in one basket. Like all crops, in time a blight, bug, or some other disaster can take over an area and millions of dollars in losses occur. Around here one of the greatest problems is rain at the wrong time of year. The grapes literally rot on the vines and then next years vintage prices are at least one third to 50% more. In farming, diversity is the key for sure.

Petra

• Mt. Konocti volcanic history