When is the best time of year to visit Calif. Wine Country?

I'm assuming you are referring to Napa - there are actually several other wine regions in CA, with varying climates.

You can pretty much visit year round, but keep in mind that summers will be more crowded and weekends get busy with locals. I like going in Feb when the mustard flowers fill up the space between the grape rows. Quite beautiful. But there is also a chance of rain anytime between now and April. It's too hot for my taste in the summer, although the wineries themselves are usually cool inside.

My favorite wine region in CA is Dry Creek Valley. It's about 45 mins west of Napa, and far less crowded and expensive. My friends and I have made some lists of our favorite places there, including photos and maps, in case you want to check it out:

http://www.nextstop.com/explore/?breadcrumb_param=...

September/October during the crush. That's when there's the most production activity. It's pretty much done for this year -- especially as it's raining today.

July or Aug. It's 99 degrees and gorgeous.

Summer months! It's wonderful! I went this past summer and it was just gorgeous.