During a wide-ranging interview he also covers how he was one of the first cannabis tours in wine country and how we got into the business, transitioning from a "party bus" to an educational and refined experience like other wine tours.

He also discusses how a serious bicycle accident in his 30s led him to cannabis for pain relief and balancing his career in the corporate world, which at the time in the 1980s, frowned on the practice. Part showman, part historian, part farmer, and all of the time an enthusiastic entertainer, Van offers great anecdotes and insight into this agricultural sector.

Plus, Van hops into the visitor center chair and answers YOUR questions about wine country and visiting Sonoma. This week he takes on:

Who are those group of men who sit on the Plaza every Friday and what are they doing?

I’m looking for a listing of wineries with their hours of operation, their addresses and what they offer- do you have such a thing?

There is a tree on the Plaza with shocking pink, upright flowers that look like tulips that are blooming right now. What are those?

I’m on the hunt for a good winery with farm animals. Any out there?

I’m looking for recommendations on: - Wineries w/ an activity - Wineries w the best view - Winery w the best cave

Got questions about Sonoma Valley? You can email us at [email protected], text us or contact us through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or just walk into one of our two visitor centers.

More information on Happy Traveler's Tours at https://happytravelersweedtours.com

It's Sonoma Valley's top podcast and you find it wherever you find fine podcasts, including Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sonoma-spiel/id1634467429

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UuskGhmJ3EkWQk8DObR9b

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSa7rAVobsI8O_3xp7hIDPKRO9nBuvNF