Our parents fell in love with California when they first came to Calistoga in the 1960s. It was a dream come true when our father retired and they bought this ranch. Sonoma County reminded them of France, their native country: the vineyards, the beautiful agricultural lands, the farm-fresh foods. And the weather was always better than Normandy!
They planted a vineyard, with acres of Merlot and a few other varietals, and our mother tended to the vines and her Chicken Château. Our sister manages the horse stables on the property. It is known as a place where kids and adults enjoy riding. In the summer, the school offers horse camps for kids during which riders of all levels ride, learn to care for horses, make friends and relax by the creek. Some of her students now send their kids to the camp.