Man, you can pack up your car to leave Murphys but it won’t soon leave you. Something about this place pulls you in like a warm hug. The town may be in the midst of the quintessential growth spurt of any California wine pocket but it sure has not outgrown its small town sensibilities and locals consistently doubt it ever will. Doctors will still make house calls, corner coffee shops know your order, and tasting rooms greet you by first name.

More about my month in this region.