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One of the best things about Diamond Peak are the knock-your-socks-off views it has of Lake Tahoe and the rugged Sierra crest to the west. Perhaps the best way to appreciate such a splendid panorama - particularly at sunset - is with a glass of fine wine and a plate of tasty hors d'oeuvres.

Starting Feb. 9 - and continuing each late Saturday afternoon through April 11 - you can do that at Diamond Peak , which once again is offering its ever-popular Last Tracks program.

Guests can unwind by tasting the product of some the West's best vintners, as well as munching on appetizers, at 4 p.m. at the mid-mountain Snowflake Lodge, which has one of the best overviews of Lake Tahoe in the basin. The cost is $32, or $288 for a transferable pass for all 10 sessions.

Some of the wineries that will have their wares to sample are Rodney Strong (Feb. 7), Francis Ford Coppola (Feb. 28), Clos De Val (March 28), and Folie a Deux (April 4)., Last Tracks will feature New Belgium Brewing March 21, for beer aficionados.

Then after the comestibles have been sampled and the lifts have long since stopped spinning, you can ski or board back down to the base lodge on freshly laid corduroy. Tres magnifique.

Participants must be 21 to attend the Last Tracks program and must be able to ski or ride at the intermediate level.