Top 3 Picnics

Local parks are often picnic-friendly, but a picnic at a winery is better yet. Many wineries have outdoor tables shaded by trees, and some sell snacks as well. (It's polite to buy a bottle of wine if you're using their picnic facilities.) Here are three terrific choices.

Napa Valley: Stock up on high-falutin' staples like pâté and imported cheeses at the Dean & Deluca store on the St. Helena highway, 1 1/2 mi south of downtown Napa. Then drive up to Rutherford Hill Winery to eat under their olive trees with a view of the valley.

Sonoma Valley: Snap up local breads, cheeses, and other supplies at the stores around Sonoma's plaza, like the Cheesemaker's Daughter. Take your haul to Gundlach-Bundschu Winery, where the views from the slopes are unbeatable.

Russian River Valley: Hit the Oakville Grocery on Healdsburg's main plaza, then have your spread at the tables at Rochioli Vineyards.