The heat serves as a reminder that summer still lingers in Northern California, even though the calendar says it should be fall. It’s a gentle nudge to savor each bright sunny day and enjoy every special moment, especially Tuesdays, the week’s forgotten day. But this is no ordinary Tuesday. You’re at the Shannon Family of Wines Mercantile, resting in the heart of walnut orchards and vineyards in Big Valley.
Soon, you’ll know why things are different here – the gravel in the parking lot shifts and crunches under every step, leading you toward the bubbling fountain. Then it comes into full view: a white building edged with black, bold lettering proclaiming you have reached The Mercantile. Step inside. High, whitewashed walls and ornate chandeliers over the bar welcome the eye, and you can’t help but smile, realizing that indeed, and as promised, this will not be an ordinary Tuesday. Floor-to-ceiling shelving on the back wall holds a selection of wine bottles, while behind the bar, an assortment of wine-themed souvenirs waits to be perused. To the left, near the tables filled with friends chatting, rests a refrigerator fully stocked with Shannon’s farm-raised lamb and other goodies, a reminder that Shannon Wines is also a working ranch.
But let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. First comes the wine. For a traditional wine-tasting experience, arrive early to ensure you have the complete experience, especially on Tuesdays and weekends. Or plan your visit on Sunday, Monday, or Wednesday for a full tasting and their undivided attention. And if you’re really lucky, you’ll have Courtney serving you. With her broad knowledge of Shannon wines, she can answer any questions you throw her way.
But if time isn’t on your side, and it’s more about the partying and good food, no worries. Pick up a bottle of Rosé, and you won’t be disappointed. A win-win for most tastes, it’s just dry enough for those who love reds and light enough to please those who adore white wines only. Of course, you can also order wine by the glass. There is no wrong way to enjoy the Mercantile experience.
Now’s the time to get settled. Sit at the bar for an interactive experience, or find a table and make an evening of it with friends–either is a perfect option. If it’s not too hot, you can also grab an outdoor table under the trees. Once settled with a glass of wine in hand, start the time off right by picking out from the numerous do-it-yourself charcuterie choices in the refrigerator. Or, if you’re stuck, ask the knowledgeable staff, and they will personalize the charcuterie to pair perfectly with your wine of choice for a sip-and-taste wine-tasting experience.
But if this is a Tuesday, then the real reason to be at the Mercantile is for tacos bought to you by La Chilanguita. And let me say that these are not your ordinary tacos. If you’re not into surprises, try the beef asada taco topped with grilled onion, cilantro, slices of cucumber, and radish. For some heat, add a serrano pepper, which is spicy, even for those of us who love hot food. For the more curious palettes, try the shrimp or fish taco served with mayo, slaw, secret sauce, and avocado. Whatever you choose, two tacos will be a satisfying meal, considering the generous portions served by La Chilanguita.
Once you have finished eating, take your glass of wine, grab a pair of clippers from one of the employees behind the bar, and head off to the zinnia patch. There, you’ll walk through a field of colors and textures designed to fill and delight the senses. And be sure to clip a couple to take home–you can use your now-empty bottle as a vase.
If you can’t make it on a Tuesday, that doesn’t mean that you miss out on the party, though. The weekend is when things really get going. On Friday night, you can enjoy incredible, artisanal pizza crafted by Doughbaby Pizza. And, best of all, if you happen to have a Saturday free, come early for the Farmers’ Finest Market, then make a day of it drinking wine, eating, and relaxing before spending the evening dancing to live music.
See you at The Mercantile! Cheers!
The Shannon Mercantile 4350 Thomas Dr, Lakeport, CA 95453
Phone: (707) 279-9475