Being in wine country doesn’t mean everything has to be vino related. Yes Napa County is a stunning part of California, and yes it does produce some mighty fine grapes, but there’s some equally good food being produced in these parts, as well.

And what better way to support local growers and artisans than by visiting the local farmers’ market, as we did when passing through the gorgeous town of St Helena.

Fresh, seasonal, crafty and deliciously imperfect. It’s the kind of market that lacks pretence, is perfectly sized and offers just about anything you’d need to stock up the fruit and veg crisper, the pantry or mantle. And many of these guys pick just before heading to the market to sell their wares. Can’t get fresher than that!

Local honey, preserves and chutneys, fresh seafood and hot-smoked salmon. How about fresh popcorn?

Seasonal fruit and veg, even exotics like the feijoa.

We try to love our farmer’s market vendors equally wherever we go, but we had a very soft spot for the wares at Flour Chylde. These guys from Novato insist on baking from scratch, churning out their gluten-free delectables in small batches.  And what better way to drive around the Californian countryside than with a healthy selection of baked treats? Did I mention they’re all gluten free?

• St. Helena Farmers’ Market
• Grayson Avenue (Crane Park)
• St Helena 94574
• 707 486 2662
• Every Friday, May-October 7.30am-12pm
• website