Although it’s early on Sunday morning, Santa Ynez Valley is lit with beaming golden rays, illuminating the beauty of our local wine country. Thankfully a relaxing breeze accompanies the heat, foreshadowing what’s to come.
This morning’s Vineyard Yoga is hosted at Gainey Vineyard, known for its high quality estate bottles and picturesque location. Yes, you read that correctly, yoga and wine! I caught up with Cori Lassahn, the genius behind this perfect pairing, to get a first-hand look at the buzz behind this unique class. The two-part program starts out with a one-hour outdoor yoga session, overlooking majestic mountain ranges and acres on acres of luscious grapevines. The scenery is stunning and truly sets the mood for “feel good yoga,” as Cori calls it.
Yoga mat in hand, I walk with Cori to join a full class on the carpet-like lawn. Due to variation options for most poses and sequences, the attendees greatly range from first-timers to yogis. The unique setting and post-class treat attracts everyone from recent legals to the elderly. “These classes really are for every age, every body, every human,” Cori explains.
We begin with a light stretch to calming music, while classic small planes glide across the sky. With Cori’s guidance I feel my knots, developed over an intense workout a few days prior, loosening. But, what’s more impressive is where Cori’s encouraging words take my mind. She urges the class to let loose, connect with the surroundings, center ourselves, and find an inner peace.
Somewhere between warrior one and tree pose, I find myself there—separated from the stress of my week and the constant need to stay connected to my phone. The mental de-cluttering matched with the perfect level workout, realigns me in more ways than one. As I attempt “lord of the dance pose” (holding one leg bent behind me with one arm) I realize I have been smiling for the past 20 minutes, filled with internal bliss. My fellow classmates are also sporting the same look—uncontrollable grins, an undeniable sign of the class’ success. Note to self: do not let your gaze wander during one-legged poses, and if you do, blame the tumble on the playful breeze.
To wrap up, we go into Shavasana. I lay down on my mat and close my eyes. Normally this is when I fall asleep in yoga (yes I’m that person in class), yet thanks to the vivacious sun rays I get to enjoy a light show that keeps me relaxed, but awake. After a few minutes, we slowly rise and bow, “namaste.”
Although I did not feel strained, I definitely enjoyed a workout, and now it’s time for my reward, wine! Heading inside for the tasting I notice that most visitors came in groups, with friends and family—this is truly a perfect weekend activity. Cori and I join John Falcone, the manager and director of winemaking, for a private tasting. We begin with the Sauvignon Blanc, a top-seller at Gainey, and it’s clear why—crisp and refreshing, it’s a perfect starter for post-yoga. Next, we enjoy a buttery Chardonnay, while John tells us about how he got into the business 40 years ago. The guy knows his stuff, and it’s apparent by the impeccable quality and complexity of the wines. Gainey boasts an impressive variety, which most local wineries lack, making it a must-visit for connoisseurs. Out of the whites, Cori and myself fall for the Riesling, which according to John is making a comeback, so stock up! We seamlessly make the transition to reds, beginning with a Pinot Noir. John continues to impart his wisdom, surprising Cori and I with the chemistry behind wine making. Chats about Gainey’s history, wine, the Vineyard Yoga collaboration, and endless laughs bring us to our last wine of the day, a luxurious Merlot.
As we head out, John presents both Cori and I with a bottle of Riesling, a true testament to the flawless level of customer care the winery provides.
Vineyard Yoga is a perfect escape. I leave refreshed, relaxed, and cheerful (not sure if that was due to the generously poured tasting). Yoga could give cheese a run for its money, as the new ideal pair.
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