Occasionally, we are asked, “Why visit wineries in the winter?” On a very cold day, January 2007, we visited a winery that had originally been a barn. The heating system had a difficult time, heating the building and the floor was cement. Dressed warmly, the cold seeped into our bones. On the positive side, I remember the friendliness of the winemaker and his willingness to talk about his wines and hopes for the future.In February, while the East coast was suffering a cold spell, we traveled to California to visit wineries. This visit provided us with a view of vineyards where we saw the architecture of the vines, bright yellow mustard highlighting the rows of grapevines. Inside tasting rooms were not crowded, tours were small enough to be able to ask questions and talk with participants. Most tastings were leisurely. There was plenty of time to discuss the wines. Many small wineries close during the winter months or shorten their hours, so before you go for a visit call or visit their website.