a vintage dinner - View this location on map back in the 1600's, wine was a key element in the virginia company's grand plans for its new trading colony. it even sent over eight french vignerons to assist the locals. when the area didn't turn out to be the next bordeaux, settlers turned to tobacco and never looked back. now the williamsburg winery (757-229-0999), offers tours and an opportunity to taste a virginia vintage (the tour is free; tasting is $7). afterward, have dinner next door on the patio of the gabriel archer tavern (757-229-0999). try the country platter with cheese and sausages ($10), the smoked duck on a spring salad ($14) or the scandinavian fish platter ($12). New York Times 5800 wessex hundred, Williamsburg, VA Shopping

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