Cannabis in Wine Country: Van Solkov talks education, tours and agriculture

Van Solkov of Happy Traveler's Tours came by the Sonoma Spiel podcast to talk cannabis growing in Sonoma Valley, how tours of farms and dispensaries serve to educate and dispel myths as well as update older traveler's about changes in the scene since the 70s and 80s.

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 info@sonomavalley.com, 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