SKunk train adds railbikes for unparalleled redwood adventure
Does any childhood experience color our adult years quite like a train? Most of us remember our first time climbing aboard a train car, whether we were traveling from our hometown to visit far away relatives or celebrating the Holidays on a shorter trip with Santa. Our collective love of all things rail-related can be seen in other ways as well, like the fact that, with all the fads that come and go, model train building remains a constant passion with generation after generation. Those lucky enough to visit Mendocino County will discover a railway system worth exploring, the historic Skunk Train. (Model train lovers can also visit the Ft. Bragg Model Train Barn.)
Established in 1885, the “Skunk” was then known as the Fort Bragg Railroad, the brainchild of two lumbermen who sought to extract lumber from the area. Unlike many of his peers, cofounder Charles R. Johnson was also a conservationist who made a point of preserving several stands of virgin redwoods. Today, these towering stands provide breathtaking scenery for visitors who can choose from a variety of rail experiences that travel beside the Pudding Creek Estuary and to the old-growth Wolf Tree, respectively.
“My passion for railroading and particularly the Skunk Train stems from what every little kid grows up with, and that is trains,” says “Chief Skunk” Robert Pinoli. “I grew up having been given a Lionel toy train set that was my dad’s, but as a little kid growing up in Northern California was to make a trip out to Fort Bragg to ride the Skunk Train. The very first time I rode the Skunk Train I was three years old.”
Gruet Winery
2012 Blanc de Blanc American
This classic Blanc de Blancs is refined and elegant, and is a reflection of the Gruet style perfected at Gruet et Fils, our original winery in Champagne. Our Blanc de Blancs vintages have consistently received accolades and awards from international wine competitions around the world. Aged for a minimum of 3 years en tirage, this world-class Blanc de Blancs achieves a quality unmatched by any other vintage Blanc de Blancs in its class.
Winemaker's notes:
Vintage: 2012
Varietal: Blanc de Blanc American
Appellation: New Mexico
Flavors of apple, pear, and candied lemon peel dominate the nose. Nicely balanced with nutty and complex bread dough aromas. Enjoy with mushrooms, seafood, and smoked salmon.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2015
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: Monticello
Price: $55.00
Trump Winery
2015 Blanc de Noir Monticello
This Viognier is crisp, refreshing and slightly sweet with a beautiful mouthfeel. Balanced acidity and fresh fruit flavors of pear and guava complete the palate. Great accompaniment to any food or enjoy on its own!
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2019
Varietal: 100% Viognier
Appellation: Catie's Corner, Russian River Valley
Price: $38.00
Darjean Jones
2019 Viognier EnVie
The color of this wine entices with its pale pink hues. On the nose, aromas of floral jasmine and Alpine Strawberry aboutnd. After the wine eases over the palate, flavors of ripe strawberries and Bartlett pears become readily apparent. The finish boasts notes of clover honey accented by a refreshing minerality. Much in the French style, this Rosé delivers just a suggestion of color, but follows with an abundance of complexity and flavor.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2020
Varietal: 83% Syrah, 17% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Kelsey Bench AVA, Lake County CA
Price: $17.99
Dancing Crow Vineyards
2020 Rosé of Syrah Lake County
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Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Alexander Valley
Price: $30.00
Jeff Runquist
2018 Syrah Three Way Vineyards Paso Robles
Breathe in the aromatic ripeness of black cherry, cassis and
boysenberry. This full-bodied wine integrates (an ample/a vast)
amount of ripe black fruit with vanilla, cinnamon spice, sweet
tobacco and savory notes of leather with hints of cedar. The 2018
Cabernet Reserve is rich and complex wine supported by velvety soft smooth tannins, making this wine easy to drink upon release but will offer even more rewards after a few years in your cellar. Simply put – just a classic awesome Cabernet!
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Paso Robles
Price: $55.00
Lightpost Winery
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
2016
Solstice Blend
$47.00
2018
$20.00
Cabernet Sauvignon
2015
$85.00
Tribute Blend
This Late Harvest Chardonnay expresses all the classic elegance and character of Sonoma-Cutrer in a rich and succulent wine. This wine is incredibly lush and viscous with sweet richness and buttercream feel that is balanced by Sonoma-Cutrer’s classic crisp acidity. Fruit flavors of bright peach, pear and apricot mingle with notes of brown sugar and pure honey.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Price: $36.00
Sonoma Cutrer Vineyards
2018 Late Harvest Chardonnay
Showcasing a deep cardinal red hue, our bold Reserve Pinot offers delightfully cool earthy scents at first swirl. Star anise and menthol tobacco present the cool side to start, while subtle under-tones of cola and clove warm it back up again. The palate does not disappoint, with sharp cherry, balanced baking spice, and a little horehound candy rolled in to round off the flavor profile. Slightly earthy tones of mushroom come forward as it opens. Full of surprises, this wine offers the best of both worlds, starting strongly and finishing with a lovely mildness lingering on the palate.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Ammons Horn
2018 Pinot Noir
"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
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Aromas of white flowers such as gardenia and honeysuckle combine with fresh lemon scent. Upon first taste one is immediately pleased with the round, full texture that vibrantly displays the orange blossom and tangerine flavors found on the palate. A bright acidity and limestone minerality help to showcase all of the positive features of this Chardonnay while the clean finish is the bow that ties it all together.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Chardonnay
Appellation: Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley
Price: $36.00
Materra - Cunat Family Vineyards
2019 Chardonnay
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"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
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In the glass, 2018 Marianna shows densely layered aromas of ripe black cherry, concentrated blackberry, and black plum. In the mouth, the wine shows black cherry, freshly ground espresso, and the darkest dark chocolate, layered among supple, well-structured tannins. The length finish offers a touch of pipe tobacco and barrel char. Enjoy this stunning red blend with pan roasted filet served with whipped mashed potatoes and balsamic glazed asparagus.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) Merlot (15%) Malbec (3%) Petit Verdot (2%)
Appellation: Napa Valley
Price: $50.00
Michael Pozzan Winery
Marianna 2018 Red Wine
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"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
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Grapes were picked by the Winemakers in Fallon, Nevada (Churchill Vineyards), Silver Springs, Nevada (Nevada Automotive Test Center Vineyard) and at the UNR Test Vineyard in Reno. Separately fermented at the Winery in Reno in Stainless Steel tanks then combined to create this bone dry Nevada Riesling. This wine is graceful, delicately balanced and classic with aromas of flowers and tropical fruit and flavors of citrus, peach, apricot and apple. Enjoy with fish and pork, as well as spicy Thai, Chinese and Indian cuisine.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2019
Varietal: Dry Riesling
Appellation: Nevada
Winemaker: Alynn Delisle and Mike Steedman
Nevada Sunset Winery
2019 Dry Riesling
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"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
Learn More
"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
Learn More
"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
Learn More
"Come home, you coward" was Antonia Bartholomew's message to her husband Frank, a war correspondent for the United Press during WWII. While he was under enemy fire in the Pacific, she was working to establish their first vineyards, and she had no doubt which of these was the most perilous. He probably had a different view. This wine is our tribute to him, an expression of the best that their historic property, now ours to nurture, has to offer. This inaugural vintage is richly textured. It has a complex nose, with of notes of vanilla and sandalwood. The palate is bursting with ripe blueberry and cassis flavors, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Tasting notes:
Vintage: 2018
Varietal: 70% Syrah + 30% Cabernet
Appellation: Carneros
Price: $62.00
Bartholomew Estate Winery
2018 Press Release
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The Skunk Train experiences have grown considerably since Robert was a child, including Railbikes, a novel, certified guide-led adventure that is sure to be a trend among legacy railroads. The electric-assisted, two-person cars that carry riders, who can also pedal, along the actual Pudding Creek and Noyo tracks are as breathtaking as they are unique. When you imagine zipping along under the canopy of massive redwoods as the breeze rushes through your hair and forest smells encompass you, you can see why a Railbike excursion is second to none.
Just when the railbike experience couldn’t be any cooler, the Skunk Train team announced its new Railbikes by Moonlight program. The adventurous, guided excursion rolls into the sunset accompanied by LED lights and bolstered by snacks and beverages. Each group will depart from Railbike Station to pedal beside the Pudding Creek Estuary and into the redwood forest before arriving at the Glen Blair Junction, where a campfire and forest stroll await.
Both the railbike and train experiences convey visitors over historic trestle bridges with stopovers to picnic and relax in a natural, parklike setting. A loop trail takes visitors deeper into the forest on a walk beside expansive fern fronds, iris petals and delightful trillium, among other floral residents of the redwood understory. The loop trail is designed for both a casual walk and a more arduous undertaking.
The Skunk Train itself is rich in history and lore. The train received its unusual nickname from residents who once lived along the tracks in the 1920s. These folks likened the gas-powered cars, heated by pot-bellied stoves, to skunks because, like the famously striped animal with the infamous natural defense system, one could always smell the approaching cars well before seeing them on the tracks.
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Sponsored by
The California Western Railroad diesel-electric engines and the #45 Baldwin 2-8-2 Mikado Steam Engine, aka the Super Skunk, are much more efficient than the self-propelled cars that gave the Skunk Train its name one century ago. They each pull restored passenger cars as well as a traditional bar car and an unusual open-air car that invites passengers to head outside and breathe in the forest.
The Pudding Creek Express, a seven-mile ride departing from Fort Bragg also allows passengers to disembark at the tranquil Glen Blair Junction for a 15-minute stretch or, if they choose to do so, a 2-hour forest immersion before the next train arrives to carry them back.
By StoryStudio on June 16, 2022 11:19 AM
“My passion for railroading and particularly the Skunk Train stems from what every little kid grows up with, and that is trains,”
-Robert Pinoli, Mendicino Railway President
Sponsored story
The Wolf Tree Turn route embarks from Willits and conveys passengers to the highest point of the line. The diesel train also passes through Tunnel #2 and traverses the ecologically-rich Noyo River Canyon. Passengers on this route pause at Crowley to visit the iconic Wolf Tree.
The Skunk Train’s annual schedule also features several special events including Cinema in the Redwoods, a collaboration with the Mendocino Film Festival. Music in the Redwoods, concerts that take place in The Glen most weekends from June 24 to September 23. The Pumpkin Express and Magical Christmas Train also run each season. Wedding packages that include exclusive use of The Glen or ocean vista settings, as well as group buyouts are also available.
Whether planning your perfect nuptials for 2 to 225 people or rediscovering your love of the railroad with a few friends and family members, the nostalgic beauty of the historic Skunk Train has few peers. Visit the Skunk Train website to select your adventure under the Mendocino redwoods.
PUDDING CREEK EXPRESS
RAILBIKE TICKETS
The Wolf Tree Turn route embarks from Willits and conveys passengers to the highest point of the line. The diesel train also passes through Tunnel #2 and traverses the ecologically-rich Noyo River Canyon. Passengers on this route pause at Crowley to visit the iconic Wolf Tree.
The Skunk Train’s annual schedule also features several special events including Cinema in the Redwoods, a collaboration with the Mendocino Film Festival. Music in the Redwoods, concerts that take place in The Glen most weekends from June 24 to September 23. The Pumpkin Express and Magical Christmas Train also run each season. Wedding packages that include exclusive use of The Glen or ocean vista settings, as well as group buyouts are also available.
Whether planning your perfect nuptials for 2 to 225 people or rediscovering your love of the railroad with a few friends and family members, the nostalgic beauty of the historic Skunk Train has few peers. Visit the Skunk Train website to select your adventure under the Mendocino redwoods.
Both the railbike and train experiences convey visitors over historic trestle bridges with stopovers to picnic and relax in a natural, parklike setting. A loop trail takes visitors deeper into the forest on a walk beside expansive fern fronds, iris petals and delightful trillium, among other floral residents of the redwood understory. The loop trail is designed for both a casual walk and a more arduous undertaking.
The Skunk Train itself is rich in history and lore. The train received its unusual nickname from residents who once lived along the tracks in the 1920s. These folks likened the gas-powered cars, heated by pot-bellied stoves, to skunks because, like the famously striped animal with the infamous natural defense system, one could always smell the approaching cars well before seeing them on the tracks.
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