Nor Cal Edition - March 1, 2013

7/29/2019 Nor Cal Edition - March 1, 2013

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LAMB & JUDDS HILL

2009 CAB FRANCPAGE 30

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MONTICEL

VINEYARDPAGE 34

SCHUG

CARNEROS

ESTATE

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SAVOR

SONOMA

VALLEY

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CHARLES CRE

VINEYARDS

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TOP

CAVE

TOUR

PAGES 73

YO UR GU ID E TO NO RT HE RN CA LI FO RN IA WI NE RI ES , TH IN GS TO DO & EV EN TS

MARCH 1, 2013

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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK MARCH 1, 2013 | ISSUE 9, VOLUME

FEATURES REGULARSWINE REGIONS8 | NORTHERN CALIFORNIA MAP

31 | SUISUN VALLEY

34 | NAPA VALLEYNapa Valley Wineries Map, 44-45Yountville, 36-37Downtown Napa Map, 39St. Helena Map, 41Calistoga, 42-43

46 | SONOMA COUNTYSonoma County Wineries Map, 46-47Northern Sonoma County Wineries Map, 48Downtown Healdsburg Map, 50Geyserville Wineries Map, 52Sonoma Valley Wineries Map, 56Sonoma Plaza Map, 61Glen Ellen & Kenwood Map, 63

64 | MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIESLake & Mendocino Counties Map, 64

66 | SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ & MONTEREY COUNTIESMonterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map, 66Salinas Valley Wineries Map, 69

70 | LIVERMORE VALLEYLivermore Valley Map, 70

22 CHARLES CREEK VINEYARDTasting Room and Gallery on Sonoma Plaza

26 ON THE COVER: PROVENANCE VINEYARDSLocation, Location, Location

30 PERFECT PAIRS: JUDDS HILL 2009 CABERNET FRANCPaired with Chef Schraders Mini Lamb Skewers

34 TASTING ROOM OF THE WEEK:MONTICELLO VINEYARDS CORLEY FAMILY NAPA VALLEY

The Important Things in Life: Friends Family Hospitality!

36 20TH ANNUAL TASTE OF YOUNTVILLEWorld-Famous Food and Wine, Fine Art and Special Events

42 GOLDEN HAVEN HOT SPRINGS SPA AND RESORT

50 24TH ANNUAL PASSPORT TO DRY CREEK VALLEY

52 7TH ANNUAL CALIFORNIA'S ARTISAN CHEESE FESTIVAL

58 WINEMAKER PROFILE: MICHAEL COXSchug Carneros Estate Winery

59 2013 SAVOR SONOMA VALLEY: MARCH 16 & 17

70 LIVERMORE VALLEY BARREL TASTING WEEKENDat Garr Vineyard & Winery, March 23 & 24

6 | WINE COUNTRY DEALS & DISCOUNTS

10 | WINEOLOGYBy Len NapolitanoWhat can be learned from a visit to a winery?

12 | WINE GROWING DESICIONS By Josh SteinCork: Noble, Age-Old Guardian

or Ancestor Needing Improvement?

14 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

21 | WINE COUNTRY LODGING

32 | CONCIERGE FAVORITES71 | WINERY LISTINGS

Napa Valley, 71

Sonoma County, 76

Monterey, Santa Cruz & Santa Clara Counties, 81

Lake & Mendocino Counties, 82

Suisun, 83

Bay Area/Livermore, 84

73 | NAPA VALLEYS TOP 5 CAVE TOURS75 | PET FRIENDLY WINERIES77 | SONOMA COUNTYS TOP 5 CAVE TOURS85 | DINING DIRECTORY

Wine Country This Weeks preferred restaurants

in Napa Valley (p85) and Sonoma County (p86)

40

22

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WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

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5 | CALiFoRNiA WiNE toURs specal prce n ur an an47 | CELLARs oF soNomA 2 fr 1 an wh a59 | CHAtEAU st. JEAN 2 fr 1 an wh a78 | FERRARi-CARANo 2 fr 1 Clac Wne an wh a49 | FRitZ WiNERYmenn a fr $5 ff wne an78 | HoP KiLN WiNERY2 fr 1 an wh a53 | KENdALL-JACKsoN WiNERY2 fr 1 Reere tan wh a63 | LEdsoN WiNERY & viNEYARds menn a fr uprae an53 | Lost CANYoN WiNERYCplenary an fr w wh a49 | mARtiN RAY WiNERY15% cun wh a63 | mUsCARdiNi CELLARs Cplenary an fr w wh a50 | RodNEY stRoNg Cplenary an/20% cun wh a

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sANtA CLARA, sANtA CRUZ & moNtEREY CoUNtiEs69 | HAHN WiNERYCplenary an fr w wh a

*See individual ads for details.

DEALS & DISCOUNTS


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8/888 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT

NORTHERN CALIFORNIAgEttiNg to NAPA TRAVEL TIMEFROM MILES Average)

Sonoma 15 23minsSan Francisco 48 1hrMonterey 152 2hrs 45mins

Los Angeles 400 6hrs 20mins

gEttiNg to soNomA TRAVEL TIMEFROM MILES Average)

Napa 15 23minsHealdsburg 38 54minsSan Francisco 45 1 hrMonterey 161 3hrsLos Angeles 410 6hrs 30mins

gEttiNg to HEALdsBURg TRAVEL TIMEFROM MILES Average)

Sonoma 38 54minsNapa 56 1hr 10minsSan Francisco 69 1hr 22minsMonterey 184 3hrs 20minLos Angeles 442 7hrs

gEttiNg to moNtEREY TRAVEL TIMEFROM MILES Average)

Sonoma 162 3hrsNapa 153 2hrs 45mins

San Francisco 114 2hrs 10minsSan Jose 73 1hrs 20minsPaso Robles 117 2hrsLos Angeles 321 5hrs 30mins

gEttiNg to sAN JosE TRAVEL TIMEFROM MILES Average)

Sonoma 90 1hr 50minsNapa 86 1hr 35minsSan Francisco 48 1 hrMonterey 73 1hr 20minsLos Angeles 340 5hrs 30mins

Destination DriversYou Relax, We Drive...

Your car, where you want to goin the wine country.

A better, smarter, safer wayto tour and taste.

Book a driver at

destinationdrivers.com

or call 707-293-8137


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I enjoy visiting wineries and learning as much as I can about the

wines, the winemaker and the history of the winery. In addition, the

vineyard in the peak of the growing season June through August

is a beautiful sight with clusters of red and green grapes under bright

green leaves. Winery tasting rooms are as varied as the wines

themselves and are always welcoming, whether its a large and lavish

room or simply a folding table among the barrels in a storage facility.

A winery experience also is an opportunity to take a winery tour

or talk to the people who are pouring the wines for tasting. This is a

chance to learn something about their wines. Whether or not you

like the wine, the time spent in a tasting room or winery is a time

for discovery and learning. You should feel free to ask questions like

Is this wine filtered or unfiltered? or Does the winery sourcegrapes from outside its own property or are the grapes estate-

grown? Im always curious to know how many cases of wine are

produced and how long the wines are aged before they are releas

to the public.

I also like hearing about the history of a winery and how its

owner became involved in the wine business. Its surprising how

many winery owners started their professional careers in areas

completely outside the wine industry. In almost every case it was

deep passion for wine that motivated them.

Maybe the best part of the winery experience is breathing in t

aroma of a winery during the time of harvest, from September to

November, when tons of just-picked grapes are nearby, some

already in the process of fermentation. Its a sweet smell of fresh

picked fruit mixed with notes of great expectations for a newvintage.

Fllw u n twer @WneCunry10

I N T E L L I G E N C E F O R T H E W I N E C O N S U M E R

BY LEN NAPOLITANO

A Certified Specialist in Wine, Len Napolitano has been educating consumers about wine since 2001.

also Tweets tips and advice to the wine consumer. Follow him on Twitter: @Wineologist. Wineology i

excerpted from Len's forthcoming book, "Nose, Legs, Body!: Uncomplicated Answers To The Mystifie

Wine Consumers First 50 Questions" E-mail your wine questions to [email protected]

What can be learned from a visit to a winery?

Learn re abu wne!For past Wineology columns,

scan the QR code with yoursmart phone application or go to

www.WineCountry ThisWeek.comand search Wineology


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BY JOSH STEIN

It seems like at least one in every three conversations I have with

people in the wine trade, whatever the ostensible reason for the chat

was, ends up discussing cork and its alternatives. With more than

four billion bottles domestically purchased last year, youd think this

would be a settled issue, but, alas, the inverse is true: the more wine

we make and sell, the more options of bottle enclosures we have, not

less, and some packaging solutions dont even involve bottles or

enclosures as we normally think of them at all!

Cork for an enclosure rose naturally enough given its the bark of

different species of oak trees, and oak is one of the traditional

woods for barrel staves, so it makes sense to get the most out of

whats already being used; farmers are well known for frugality and

lack of waste. What is not so well known is that it takes almost

three decades of growth and several bark harvests, separated by

seven years or more, before the first true harvesting of premium

cork-level material is possible. Cork is one hundred percent natural,

but its long lag time makes it less than ideal in todays global,

accelerated wine world.

Thus have evolved a number of alternatives to the pure, grade

cork, which, not incidentally, can run most of a dollar each even

when purchasing large volumes. The simplest of these other optio

involve different forms of the same natural cork but in combinatio

with various stabilizers to allow smaller pieces of cork to be formed

into the standard wine cork shape. Known as technical or

agglomerated corks, these provide an affordable solution which giv

most of the same oxygen transmission and enclosure performance

a much more affordable cost.

A middle ground between these two comes by way of the spark

wine producer, whose corks require a special shape and performan

because of the extra pressure from bottle fermentation; their most

common cork uses two disks of natural cork on the stalk of the

mushroom with agglomerated technical cork making up the cap

the remainder. The still wines twin top does the same thing, bu

with a disk on both ends and technical cork sandwiched between

Maintaining the shape but substituting alternate materials entirely

a vast range of wholely artificial extruded corks made of various

food grade plastics and silicons.

Moving away from a wine cork shape altogether takes us to the

twist top, more formally known as the Stelvin enclosure; a liner cabe employed to precisely control the oxygen transmission rate, bu

there is no head-turning thunk of the pulled cork. There is also th

Zork, which combines artificial materials with an unwrapping

process, and glass stoppers, which work best as a cork stopper

replacement except for one thing: the O-ring necessary to mate th

glass stopper with the glass bottle is the crucial element in how

effective the stopper is.

As you can see, while the common wisdom is that once the gra

are in and the aging in barrel is done all the problems are over, the

reality is that until the wine is in your mouth, there are decisions t

make and potential problems to avoid every step along the way. Nenclosure solves all the problems, and the best option, the traditio

all-cork cork, is not inexpensive; there are lots of more affordable

alternatives, but each lacks something, making it less than ideal as

replacement. Keep that in mnd the next time you reach for your

opener and enjoy!

Cork: Noble, Age-Old Guardian

or Ancestor Needing Improvement?

Josh Stein has been in the Napa wine business for more than a decade, and, in addition to being owner/winem

of the Stein Family Wine Group, which produces a nationally and internationally distributed portfolio of wine bra

and donates 5% of its sales to the children of wineworkers in the form of college scholarships and support funds, he

regularly consults for wineries and organizations throughout the North Bay and Coast via their subsidiaries, Discr

Wine Support Services and SF-Integrated Vineyard Management.


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CALENdAR oF EvENts | WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

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ONGOINGNapa Valley Wine TrainNapa, www.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124 Feb 23: Moonlight Escape Mar 2, 9, 23, 30: Sip & Supper Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 16: Big Gay Wine Train Mar 30: Moonlight Escape

ONGOINGSeminars & Tastingsat Merryvale VineyardsSt. Helena, 10am-6:30pm, www.merryvale.com, 707-963-7777 Merryvale tasting, $15 Reserve tasting, $35 Wine Sensory Seminar, $45, Fridays 12pm or by appt Wine & Cheese Experience, $45, by appt Sommelier Grand Reserve Tasting, $65, by appt

ONGOINGJefferson House Reserve RoomTasting at Monticello VineyardsNapa Reserve Wine Seminar, Corley Family Napa Valley, $25RSVP 707-253-2802 x18, www.CorleyFamilyNapaValley.com

ONGOINGV. Sattui WinerySt. Helena, 9am-6pm, no appt. necessary, www.vsattui.com, 707-963-7774 Classic tasting, daily, $5

Premium tasting, daily, $10 Food & wine pairing, Mon-Thu, $18 Artisan chocolate & wine pairing, Sat-Sun, $25 Italian Marketplace with 200+ cheeses Deli with panini, sandwiches, crabcakes & more Weekend BBQ, wood-fired pizza, oysters, mozzarella bar 2 acres of tree-shaded picnic grounds

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD WinesRutherford, RSVP 800-487-7757, www.zdwines.com Traditional Tasting, $10, daily 10am-4:30pm Premier Tasting, $20, daily 10am-4:30pm Private Group Tasting, $25, by appt Cellar Tour & Tasting, $40, by appt Vineyard View Tasting, $75, by appt Abacus Tasting, $650, by appt Wine Train, $199

ONGOINGTours and Tastingsat William Hill Estate WineryNapa, 10am-5pm, by appt., www.williamhillestate.com, 707-265-3024 Taste the Napa Valley, $12 Taste the Silverado Bench, $20 Estate Exclusives, $25 Intro to William Hill Estate Tour and Tasting, $25 The William Hill Estate Experience Tour and Tasting, $40

ONGOINGVineyard & Winery Toursat Raymond VineyardsSt. Helena, 11am (by appt), $15, Group tours available (by appt)www.raymondvineyards.com, 800-525-2659x620

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti WineryNapa, www.andrettiwinery.com, 877-386-5070x227 Individual Tastings, $15

Private Winery Tour & Tasting, $20/person by appointment Vineyard Tours, $20/person by appointment

ONGOING

Tasting at Grgich Hills Estate

Rutherford, 9:30am-4:30pm, Tours at 11am & 2pm, $10Wine library tasting/$30, Barrel tasting on most Fridays 2-4pmwww.grgich.com, 707-963-2784

ONGOING

Tastings & Tours at Artesa Winery

Napa, RSVP, 877-224-8309, www.artesawinery.com Vino con Queso, Wine & Cheese Experience, $40 Daily Guided Tours Vines & Wines, A Vineyard Tour, $40

ONGOING

Bouchon Bakery Box Lunch

at Reynolds Family Winery

Napa, Have lunch waiting for you when you arrive for your tasting!Tasting & lunch, $30, $20/members, $40/reserve tastingwww.reynoldsfamilywinery.com, 707-258-2558, RSVP

ONGOING

Educational Tours & Wine Tasting

at Castello di Amorosa

Calistoga, www.castellodiamorosa.com, RSVP, 707-967-6272 Regular tour & tasting Reserve tour & tasting Tasting only Young adult tours Na pa Valley Neighbor Program P rivate VI P tours

ONGOING

Live Music Fridays at Taste at Obow

Napa, time varies, 707-265-9600, www.tasteatoxbow.com

ONGOING

Tastings at St. Supry

Rutherford, www.stsupery.com, 800-942-0809 Vineyard to Glass Cellar Tour, Fridays, 2pm, $50 Dollarhide Library Tasting, daily, $35 lu Library Tasting, daily, $35

ONGOING

Wine Tasting Eperiences at Benessere Vineyards

St. Helena, www.benesserevineyards.com, by appt 707-963-5853 x105 Personalized Wine Flights, daily, $10 Vineyards Walking Tour & Tasting, M-W, 10:30am, $15 Fudge Pairing Experience, Sun, 10:30am, $15 Barrel Tasting, RSVP, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $20 Barrel Tasting & Current Release, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $25

Barrel Tasting & Vertical, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $25 Group Tasting, Sat-Sun, 1:30pm, $15

ONGOING

Joseph Phelps Vineyards: Tastings & Seminars

An opportunity to participate in a wide range of excellent seminars.11am daily; 2:30pm, Monday-Friday & 2pm, Saturday & Sunday, $40except Insignia Blending & Single Vineyard Wines/$60, free/club membersWine & Cheese Pairing $75. Terrace tastings daily, $30 & $60.RSVP, 707-967-3720, details www.josephphelps.com Insignia Blending Wine Aroma Challenge Single Vineyard Wines Napa Valley Rocks Barrel Seminar

ONGOING

Tours & Tastings at Clos du Val

Napa, daily 10am-5pm, www.closduval.com, 800-993-9463 Classic tastings, $10: fee waived with purchase of a bottle wine.

Reserve tastings, $20: fee not waived with purchase of a bottle of wine. Tours by appointment with 24 hour advance notice

ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi WineryFor details, www.robertmondavi.com, 888-RMONDAVI x2 Th e Signat ure Tour & Tast in g T he Win e Tast in g Bas ics Th e Exclusiv e Cellar Tasting T as ting Bey ond the Basics The Harvest of Joy Tour & Lunch

ONGOINGVIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory TourBourassa Vineyards, Napa, Mon-Fri by appointment, $15 mid-week speciaMention this listing, www.bourassavineyards.com, 800-499-2366

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado VineyardsNapa, www.silveradovineyards.com, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770 x611 Saddleblock Vineyard Tasting, by appt, $75 Library Tasting, by appt, $75 Daily Tasting Room Flights, Estate/$15, Premier/$25 Public Tours & Tasting, 10:30am & 2:30pm, by appt, $25 Private Tour and or Tasting, 15-25 guests, by appt, $20/tour, $25/tour

& tasting

ONGOING

Napa Valley Museum

Yountville, www.NapaValleyMuseum.org, 707-944-0500 Feb 28: California Forever, The History of California State Parks Movie Ni Mar 5: Dreaming of the West Discussion with the Curator & Collector Apr 13: Learning through Art & Family Fun Day, Paper Lanterns

ONGOINGNapa Valley Opera House

1030 Main Street, Napa, www.nvoh.org, 707-226-7372

Feb 19: Suscol Intertribal Council Benet Feb 20: Juan de Marcos & the Afro-Cuban All Stars Feb 21: Victor Wooten Feb 22: Paco Pena, Flamenco Vivo! Feb 26: Tuesday Night Flicks, Some Like it Hot

ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back Room Wines Feb 22: A Taste Tour of Italy Feb 28: Big Time Pinot Noir Tasting

Mar 1: Taste Wines from Argentina & Chile Mar 28: Rhone Wine Fan Club of Napa Valley

ONGOINGdi RosaNapa, www.dirosapreserve.org, 707-226-5991 Mar 14: Artist Program

ONGOINGLive at Uptown TheatreNapa, www.uptowntheatrenapa.com, 707-259-0123 Feb 23: An Evening with Pride & Joy Feb 24: Alan Parsons Live Project Mar 8: Los Lonely Boys Acoustic Mar 22: Boz Scaggs

ONGOINGNapa Valley Performing Arts Centerat Lincoln TheaterYountville, www.lincolntheater.org, 707-944-9900

Mar 1-3, 8-10: Footloose, Justin-Sienas Production Mar 23: Grand Opening Celebration

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daily: Valley First Tour

Daily: Grgich Hills Estate Winery Tour

Fri-Sun: Domaine Chandon Winery Tour

Sat: Valleys only Evening Winery Tour

Mon-Thu: Ambassador Winery Tour

Mar 2, 9, 23, 30: Sip & Supper

Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner

Mar 16: Big Gay Wine Train


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ONGOING TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Obow Market Tour & Cooking Class

Cooking With Julie, Napa, 8:45am-4:30pmwww.cookingwithjulie.com, 707-227-5036

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS

Winemaker Wednesdays at 1313 Main

Napa, 6-8pm, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

ONGOING FRIDAYS

Friday Night Pulse Tastings

ACME Fine Wines, St.Helena, 5-7pmwww.acmefinewines.com, 888-963-0440

ONGOING FRIDAYS

Bubbles Bar at 1313 Main

Napa, 9pm-12am, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Barrel Tasting & Tours at Reata

Barrel tasting: 11am, 2pm & by appointment, Tours by appointmentNapa, www.reatawines.com, 707-254-8673x119

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Food & Wine Pairings at Etude Winery

Napa, 10am, 1pm & 3pm, $35, $25/memberswww.etudewines.com, 707-257-5300

ONGOING THROUGH APRIL

Blend Your Own Merlot

at Rutherford Hill

Rutherford, 11am-1pm, $95, $75/members, RSVP

www.rutherfordhill.com, 707-963-1871x2218

FEBRUARY 19-22

The Symposium for Professional Wine Writers

Meadowood Napa Valley, St. Helena

www.winewriterssymposium.org

FEBRUARY 20, 27

Pick Up Party at Artesa

Napa, 877-224-8309, www.artesawinery.com

FEBRUARY 23

Cooking Class: Cajun Feast Napa Style

Join Chef Allen Calhoun & Hagafen Cellars

Cedar Gables Inn, Napa, 707-224-7969

www.cedargablesinn.com

FEBRUARY 23

2008 Sycamore Vineyard Release Party

Freemark Abbey, St. Helena, 1-4pm

www.freemarkabbey.com, 707-963-9694

MARCH 2

Pasta Festa at Rutherford Hill

Rutherford, 5:30-8pm, $75/members, $90www.rutherfordhill.com, 800-726-5226, RSVP

MARCH 2

Cooking Class: Late Winter Harvest Dinner

Join Chef Brian WhitmerCedar Gables Inn, Napa, 4-8pm, $169www.cedargablesinn.com, 707-224-7969

MARCH 2Fuller Park Walking Tour

Fuller Park District, Napa, 10am, $20, $10/memberswww.napacountylandmarks.org, 707-255-1836

MARCH 3

35th Annual Running of the Kaiser Permanente

Napa Valley Marathon

Calistoga to Napa, 707-255-2609, www.napavalleymarathon.org

MARCH 6

Culinary Program: Smoked Olive Oil

The New Pantry Essential

Napa Style, Yountville, 5-6pm, $25, RSVPwww.NapaStyle.com/culinary

1www.WneCunrythWeek.c

WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK | CALENdAR oF EvEN


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MARCH 9, 22

Pinot Noir Blending Session

at Domaine Carneros

Napa, 1-3pm, $65/members, $75/guestswww.domainecarneros.com, 707-257-0101x135

MARCH 9

Calistoga Music Festival: Mustard, Mud & Music

Downtown Calistoga, 12-5pm, $35/adv, $40www.calistogavisitors.com, 707-942-6333

MARCH 14-1620th Annual Taste of Yountville

Various events & locations in Yountvillewww.yountville.com, 707-944-0904

MARCH 16

Clone Release Celebration at Beaulieu

Rutherford, 1-3pm, Club Member Exclusive Event800-264-6918x5323, www.bvwines.com.com

MARCH 16

The Big Gay Train

Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa, 5:30pmwww.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124

MARCH 16

Cooking Class: Early Spring Feast

Join Chef Mike C

Cedar Gables Inn, Napa, 4-8pm, $169www.cedargablesinn.com, 707-224-7969

MARCH 23

Cellar Sale at Beringer

St. Helena, 9am-2pm, 707-963-8989x2069www.beringer.com

APRIL 4-7

Live in the Vineyard Music Festival

Various locations in Napa Valley!www.liveinthevineyard.com

APRIL 13

Peju Reserve Release & Vertical Tasting

Rutherford, 11am-1pm, $85, $75/memberswww.peju.com, 707-963-3600

APRIL 13-14

Peju Spring Fare with Spring Flair!Rutherford, Sat: 2-5pm, Sun: 10am-2pmwww.peju.com, 707-963-3600, $35/day, $25/day members

APRIL 20

Budbreak Celebration in the Vineyard

at Beaulieu

Rutherford, 11am-2pm, Club Member Exclusive Event800-264-6918x5323, www.bvwines.com

ONGOING

Tastings at Fritz Underground Winery

A Taste of Fritz: $10, Indulge in Fritz Reserve Wines: $15Cloverdale, www.fritzwinery.com, 707-894-3389

ONGOING

Live Music at Centre du VinLedson Hotel, Sonoma, 707-996-9779, www.ledsonhotel.com

ONGOING

Private Tastings at Viansa

www.viansa.com, 800-995-7470 Italian Wine & Cheese Pairing

10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointment, $10/members, $25 Reserve Wine & Food Pairing

10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointment, free/members, $45

ONGOING

Reserve Wine & Food Pairing

Private Tasting at Viansa

Sonoma, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointmentwww.viansa.com, 800-995-7470, free/members, $45

ONGOINGPrivate Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Pick of the Bunch five wines, 6-8 people, $20-$40ppby appointment, www.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700 Scentiments Test your Smell Memory White Wine Lovers wines paired with Artisan cheeses King of Reds wines paired with dried fruits and chocolates Matchmaker wine and food pairing PreVail Tasting wines paired with Artisan Charcuterie plate Cabernet Terroir Tasting comparison wines from different elevations

ONGOINGWine and Food Pairingat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Matchmaker, learn the art and science of matchingwines with the perfect food. 6-8 people, $35pp, by appointmentwww.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGFree Guided Winery Tourat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Monday-Saturday, 10am, by appointmentwww.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGGroup Private Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Includes 5 wines, 9-25 people in underground cellar, byappointment. $20 per person, www.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOING

Terroir & History Tourat Chateau St. JeanKenwood A visit to Chateau St. Jean lifts all of your senses.Complimentary, 11am-2pm, www.chateaustjean.com, 707-833-4134

ONGOINGFood and Wine Pairingat the Mayo Reserve Room9200 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, Daily, 10:30am-6pm, 7 course food/wine tasting$35, Reservations recommended, www.mayofamilywinery.com, 707-833-5504

ONGOINGWine Experiencesat Chateau St. JeanKenwood Ten person minimum, 2 hours, $50, by appointmentwww.chateaustjean.com, 707-833-4134x5258 Cinq Cpages Blending Seminar, Eight person minimum, 2 hours, $75 Cinq Cpages Component Tasting, Eight person minimum, 1.5 hours, $25 Private VIP Wine Tasting, 10:30am, 1 & 3pm, $25, 1 hour Box Lunch Prgram with Tour

ONGOINGTours, Tastings & Seminarsat St. Francis WinerySanta Rosa Ten person minimum, Call for more information & reservations888-675-WINE(9463)x255, www.stfranciswinery.com Charcuterie, daily 11am-4pm, $25/$20 club members Wine & Food Pairing, $35/$28 club members

ONGOINGGuided Winery Tours at Gloria FerrerSonoma, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $10, www.gloriaferrer.com, 707-996-7256

ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-JacksonFulton Special reserve food & wine tasting, 10am-4pm, $25www.kj.com, 707-571-7500

ONGOINGMoondance Cellars &Orchard Station Wines

Glen Ellen Paired with Wine Country Chocolates Truffle Tastes, $10www.moondancecellars.com, 707-938-7550

ONGOING FRIDAY-SATURDAYLive Music at Eric K. James VineyardsSonoma, 8-11pm, www.erickjames.com, 707-996-1364

ONGOINGHappy Hour at ProofdMonday-Wednesday, 3-6pm, off full poursSunday, 1-4pm, off full pours, $1 off flightsSonoma, 707-938-2337, www.proofdspirits.com

ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshopat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/memberswww.brcohn.com, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOING

Eclusive Wine & Cheese Tasting

at B.R. Cohn Winery

Glen Ellen, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/memberswww.brcohn.com, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOING

Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar Introduces

Thematic Wine Program

Honoring great local wine makers. Plus, each Thursday, 6:30-8pm

celebrity wine-tenders. The Lodge at Sonoma, RSVPwww.thelodgeatsonoma.com 707-931-2042

ONGOING FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Taste with the Count at Buena Vista

A 45-minute tour and wine tasting, 11am & 12:30pm, $20A 90-minute Taste with the Count with Reserve Buena Vista winesin the Counts Lair by the Count. 2pm, $45, RSVP, 800-926-1266

ONGOING SUNDAYS

Sunday Brunch at the Centre du Vin

Ledson Hotel, Sonoma, 9am-1pm, www.ledsonhotel.com, 707-996-9779

ONGOING WEEKENDS

Wine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz Winery

Cloverdale, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 tasting fee covers the pairingwww.fritzwinery.com, 707-894-3389

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

50 Mile AV Vintner's DiningGlen Ellen Barrel tasting & Old Vine Pinot Noir & Syrahs from Ashton VineyaFoods sourced locally. 4-7pm, ashtonwines.com, RSVP, 707-935-3456

ONGOING THURSDAYS

Thirsty Thursdays at Anaba

Sonoma Enjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with yourwine tasting. 4-5:30pm, www.anabawines.com, 707-996-4188

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAY

Live Music at Cellars of Sonoma

Santa Rosa, 7:30-10:30pm, www.cellarsofsonoma.com, 707-578-1826

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Jazz it up Wine & Concert Series

Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the Vineyard, Healdsburg, 4-6pmwww.seasonofthevineyard.com, 707-431-2222

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAY

Michel-Schlumberger Winery Green TourHealdsburg, 10:30am, $25, www.michelschlumberger.com, 800-447-306

ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAY

Robert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours

& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape Gondola

Geyserville, 11:30am, $10, box lunch provided for $20www.ryew.com, 707-431-4811

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Come Crush With Us at Icaria Creek Winery

Winemaker Jeff Smith leads a tasting of bottled & barreled wineswww.icariawinery.com, RSVP, 707-486-9623

EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY

Santa Rosa Original Farmers Market

Santa Rosa Veterans Building parking lot, 8:30am-noon, 707-522-8629

EVERY FRIDAY MORNING

Sonoma Valley Farmers MarketDepot Park, Sonoma, 9am-noon, 707-538-7023

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY

The Art of Winemaking Workshop

Petroni Vineyards, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pmwww.petronivineyards.com, 707-935-8311

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Syrah Hill Experience at Cline Cellars

Sonoma, 11am-1pm, 2-4pm, $40, $30/members

www.clinecellars.com, 707-940-4061

ONGOING

Cooking Classes at Ramekins Culinary School

450 West Spain St, Sonoma, Check website for schedulewww.ramekins.com, 707-933-0450

SONOMA COUNTY


17/881Lk fr u n Facebk an bece a Fan!


ONGOINGWells Fargo Center for the ArtsSanta Rosa, wellsfargocenterarts.org, 707-546-3600 Feb 22: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie Feb 23: George Kahumoku, Jr. Feb 24: Forbidden Hollywood Mar 10: Gordon Lightfoot Mar 13: The Gruffalo Mar 15: Hugh Acheson Mar 17: Michael Londras Celtic Fire Mar 23: In the Mood Mar 29: Cesar Millan

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernSebastopol, www.hopmonk.com, 707-829-7300 Feb 20: Toubab Krewe Feb 22: Salvador Santana Feb 23: Steve Pile Band, 1st Annual George Harrison Birthday Bash Feb 28: The Bellydance Superstars Mar 3: Northbay Poetry Slam Mar 3: Delhi 2 Dublin Mar 7: Little John Mar 14: Cabaret de Caliente Mar 15-16: Poor Mans Whiskey Mar 17: Jerry Garcia Band featuring Melvin Seals Mar 21: El Radio Fantastique

ONGOING

Spreckels Performing Arts Center

Rohnert Park, 707-588-3400, www.spreckelsonline.com, 707-588-3400

ONGOING

Live Shows at Hopmonk Tavern

Sonoma, 707-935-9100, www.hopmonk.com Feb 22: Ricky Alan Ray Feb 23: Sean Carscadden

ONGOING

Green Music CenterSonoma State University, Rohnert Parkwww.gmc.sonoma.edu, 866-955-6040 Feb 24: Peter and the Wolf Mar 2: Anne-Sophie Mutter Mar 3: Santa Rosa Symphony Youth Ensembles Concert III Mar 7: San Francisco Symphony & Yuja Wang Mar 16-18: Santa Rosa Symphony, Sweeping Emotions Mar 21: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis

ONGOING THURSDAYS

Winemaker Thursday Series at Big Bottom Market

Guerneville, 6-8pm, www.bigbottommarket.com, 707-604-7295

ONGOING FRIDAYS

Music at Vino di Amore Tasting Lounge

Cloverdale, 7-9pm, www.vinodiamore.com, 707-894-6166

ONGOING FRIDAYS

TGIF Happy Hour

Ancient Oak Cellars, Santa Rosa, 5-7pm

www.ancientoakcellars.com, 707-536-1564

FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH

First Friday at R2 Wine Company

Appetizers, complimentary tasting & fun activities!

Sonoma, 5-7pm, www.rswinecompany.com, 707-933-1330

ONGOING SATURDAYSSwirl, Sniff & Sip (aka Wine 101)

Big 3 Wine Bar, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma

10-10:45am, www.fairmont.com/sonoma, 707-938-900

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Yappy Hour

Bring your dog for an evening of canine fun!

Annex Wine Bar, Sonoma, 4-6pm

www.annexwinebar.com, 707-938-7779

EVERY THURSDAY

Baja Sushi Night

Annex Wine Bar, Sonoma, 5-7pm

www.annexwinebar.com, 707-938-7779


18/88


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FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTHWinemaker Dinner SeriesSaw Shop Gallery, Kelseyville, 6-9pmwww.sawshopbistro.com, 707-278-0129

TUESDAYS-FRIDAYSUnwind with Wine Happy HourThorn Hill Vineyards, Lower Lake, 4-6pmwww.thornhillvineyards.com, 707-279-2745

3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTHWindows to the Universe

Taylor Observatory, Kelseyville, 8-11pmwww.taylorobservatory.org, 707-262-4121

MARCH 2-3, 9-10, 16-17Whale FestivalsMendocino, various locations/events, March 2-3Little River, various locations/events, March 9-10Fort Bragg, various locations/events, March 16-17http://www.mendowhale.com

MARCH 17St. Patricks Day CelebrationMcFadden Farm Stand & Tasting Room, Hoplandwww.McFaddenVineyard.com, 707-744-8463, 10am-5pm

MARCH 22Wine Tasting Basics:Play With Your SensesSaracina Vineyards, Hopland, 4-6pmwww.saracina.com, 707-744-1671

APRIL 20Olive Oil Festival & CSA Open HouseTerraSavia/Olovino, Hopland, 12-4pmwww.terrasavia.com, 707-744-1114

APRIL 2010th Annual Whale & Jazz Festival Main EventGualala Arts Center, Gualala, 7:30pmwww.gualalaarts.org, 707-884-1138

APRIL 20Earth Day CelebrationFrey Vineyards, Redwood Valley, 3pmwww.freywine.com, 800-760-3739

APRIL 20Earth Day Dog HikeSaracina Vineyards, Hopland, 10am-1pmwww.saracina.com, 707-744-1671, $30, $25/members

APRIL 21Volunteer Day & Private Tasting & Garden TourCampovida, Hopland, www.campvida.com, 707-400-6300

APRIL 27Noyo Food Forest 7th Annual Earth Day FestivalFort Bragg High School, Fort Bragg, 12-pmwww.noyofoodforest.org, 707-964-0218

SAN FRANCISCO

ONGOINGThe Walt Disney Family MuseumThe Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco415-345-6816 www.waltdisney.org Ongoing through Apr 28: Between Frames,

The Magic Behind Stop Motion Animation Ongoing through Apr 14: Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs,

The Creation of a Classic Feb 22-24: Look Closer Feb 23: Learn from the Masters Series, Stop Motion Puppet:

Wardrobe Fabrication & Performance with Ruben Esqueda

ONGOINGSeasons SwirlFour Seasons Hotel, San Francisco, 5:30-7:30pmwww.fourseasons.com/sanfrancisco, 415-633-3838

FEBRUARY 26Darioush Napa Valley Wine DinnerJoin Darioush Khaledi, ProprietorTaj Campton Place, San Franciscowww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

MARCH 12

Raymond Napa Valley Wine DinnerJoin Jean-Charles Boisset, Proprietor

Taj Campton Place, San Franciscowww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

MARCH 1611th Annual Pinot Noir SummitHerbst at The Presidio, San Francisco, $75-$125www.affairsofthevine.com, 707-874-1975

MARCH 20Howell Mountain Spring Wine TastingThe Bently Reserve, San Francisco, 4:30-6:30pmwww.howellmountain.org, 707-965-2665

APRIL 10Mount Veeder AppellationSpring Wine TastingThe Presidio Golden Gate Club, San Franciscowww.mtveederwines.com, 707-266-1296, 4:30-6:30pm

APRIL 10-11Paso Robles Grand Tasting TourThe Bently Reserve & various restaurants, San Franciscowww.pasowine.com, 805-239-8463

MARIN COUNTY

ONGOINGMarin Center in San Rafaelwww.co.marin.ca.us, 415-499-6800 Feb 22: Pilobus Dance Theatre Feb 23: Paco Pea, Flamenco Vivo Mar 2: The Pipes & Drums of the Black Watch 3rd Battalion

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernNovato, 415-892-6200, www.hopmonk.com Feb 21: Novato Pro Jam Feb 22: The Afrofunk Experience Feb 23: Free Peoples Mar 1: New Monsoon Mar 2: Danny Click Mar 8: Linda Imperial Mar 9: Steve Pile Mar 29: Michelle Shocked with Pete Anderson Mar 31: Steve Kimock Apr 19-20: Jefferson Starship

SAN MATEO COUNTY

APRIL 27-2823rd Annual Pacic Coast Dream Machines ShowHalf Moon Bay Airport, Half Moon Bay, 10am-4pm

www.miramarevents.com 650-726-2328ALAMEDA COUNTY

FEBRUARY 22Dark & Delicious 2013Rock Wall Wine Company, Alameda, 6-9pmwww.psiloveyou.org, 707-620-0788, $63

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

ONGOINGTastings at PrimaWalnut Creek, www.primivini.com, 925-735-7780Fri: 5:30-7pm, $20, $10/membersSat: 3-5pm, $20, $10/members

MARCH 2-3Barrel Tasting WeekendHannah Nicole Vineyards, Brentwoodwww.hnvwines.com, 925-240-2463

LIVERMOREONGOING

Niles Canyon RailwaySunol Depot, Sunolwww.ncry.org, 510-910-7024 Feb 24: Train to Dinner Mar 10: Winterail Photo Special Apr 6-7: Spring Steam Excursions

ONGOINGBankhead TheatreLivermore Valley Performing Arts Center, Livermorewww.livermoreperformingarts.org, 925-373-6800 Feb 22: Reunion of The Doo Wop Stars Feb 23: Vienna Bonbon & Russian Drama Feb 26: Paco Pena Flamenco Feb 28: Gambetta/Ostroushko

ONGOING THURSDAY - SUNDAY

Wine & Cheese Pairing

La Rochelle Winery, Livermore, 12-4:30pmwww.LRWine.com, 925-243-6442

MARCH 3

Artist Reception: Oil Paintings by Maryann Kot

Wente Vineyards Estate Winery, Livermore, 1-3pmwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2305

MARCH 9

Savory Dough 101 Demo ClassThe Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, Livermore, 10:30-1:30amwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2444, RSVP, free

MARCH 15

St. Patricks Day Brew Crawl

Main St., Downtown Pleasanton, 6-9pmwww.pleasantondowntown.net, 925-484-2199

MARCH 23-24

Barrel Tasting Weekend

Participating Livermore Valley winerieswww.lvwine.org, 925-447-9463, 12-4:30pm

APRIL 6

Preserving 101 Demo Class

The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, Livermore, 10:30-1:30amwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2444, RSVP, free

APRIL 7

Artist Reception: Photography by Ron & Lisa ReggeWente Vineyards Estate Winery, Livermore, 1-3pmwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2305

www.retzlaffwinery.com, 925-447-8941

ONGOING

Sunset Cultural Center-Carmel

Carmel, www.sunsetcenter.com, 831-620-2048 Feb 21: Pilobolus Feb 23-24: Monterey Symphony, Anticipation Feb 27: Out of Thin Air Mar 5: Los Lonely Boys Mar 8-9: Smuin Ballet Winter Program Mar 10: Opera San Jose Mar 15: Rhythm of the Dance Mar 22: 1964The Tribute

Mar 23-24: Monterey Symphony, Revolution Mar 23: Chamber Music Monterey Bay, Ying Quartet Mar 29: Steve Tyrell with Special Guest Diane Shuur

ONGOING

Live at Golden State Theatre

Monterey, www.goldenstatetheatre.com, 831-372-3800 Feb 26: B.B. King

ONGOING THROUGH MAY

Winemaker Wednesday

Shadowbrook Restaurant, Capitola, 5-8pm, www.scmwa.com

ONGOING THURSDAYS

Eploring Wine

Learn more about wine & wine appreciation, taste local wines too!Carmel Ridge Winery, Cannery Row, Monterey, 4-6pm, $40www.carmelridge.com, 831-324-0035

ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYS

Sweet Thursdays at Cannery RowMonterey, Family fun, music, fine dining & great discounts, 4-8pm831-649-6690

ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYS

Monterey Museum of Art

Monterey, Evening of music, wine and hors d'oeuvres, 5-7pm, 831-372-54

EVERY THIRD WEEKEND OF THE MONTH

Pair Your Wine with Ice Cream at Kirigin Cellars

Gilroy, Pair your complimentary wine tasting with a cool Vino de Mocca IcCream Sundae! And stock the cellar 30% of 6 bottle purchases & 50% off cwww..kirigincellars.com, 408-847-8827

EVERY TUESDAY

Focus on Monterey County Wines

Cepage Wine Bar, Rancho Cellars, Carmel, 3-8pmwww.ranchocellars.com, 831-625-5646

BAY AREA

SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ& MONTEREY COUNTIES


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EVERY WEDNESDAY

Wine Down Wednesdays

Fortino Winery, Gilroy, 5-8pm, free, www.fortinowinery.com, 408-842-3305

FEBRUARY 22

Music in the Cellar

Bargetto Winery, Soquel, 6-8pmwww.bargetto.com, 831-475-2258

FEBRUARY 22

Wine, Art & Music Walk

Downtown Pacific Grove, 6-9pmwww.pacificgorve.org, 831-373-3304

FEBRUARY 22

Under the Tuscan Moon

Pppoli, Pebble Beach, $85www.pebblebeach.com, 831-647-7490

FEBRUARY 23

Alchemy of Flavors at Hahn Estates

Soledad, 11:30am & 1:30pm, $10/members, $15www.hahnwinery.com, 866-925-7994

FEBRUARY 23

Clam Chowder Cook-Off

Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruzwww.boardwalk.com, 831-423-5590

FEBRUARY 24

Annual Great Taste of Pacic Grove

Grand Ballroom, Inn at Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach831-642-4943, 4-7pm

FEBRUARY 28

Winemaker Series:

Bedrock Wine Company, Sonoma Valley

Pacifics Edge, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Carmelwww.hyattcarmelhighlands.com, 831-620-1234

MARCH 1, 8, 15, 22

Music in the Cellar

Bargetto Winery, Soquel, 6-8pmwww.bargetto.com, 831-475-2258

MARCH 9

Artistic Chocolatier Class

Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 11am-2pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $125

MARCH 21

Winemaker Series:

Mi Sueo Winery, Napa Valley


MARCH 30

Breakfast with the Bunny

Devendorf Park, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 8:30amwww.carmelcalifornia.com, 831-620-2000, free

MARCH 31

Easter Brunch

Bernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 11am-3:30pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $75, $32/kids

APRIL 4-7

2013 Pebble Beach Food & Wine

Various venues throughout Pebble Beachwww.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com, 866-907-3663

APRIL 13

Barrel Tasting & Futures Open House

Chateau Julien, Carmel Valley, $15, $10/memberswww.chateaujulien.com, 831-624-2600

APRIL 17

Shake, Rattle & Roll Cocktail Series: Spring Fever

Sunset Lounge, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Carmelwww.hyattcarmelhighlands.com, 831-620-1234

APRIL 25

Winemaker Series:

Pelerin Wines, Santa Lucia Highlands


APRIL 28

Spring Celebration

Carmel Valleys East End Wine Row, Carmel Valley Villagewww.eastendwinerow.com, 1-5pm, $35

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

ONGOING

Tasting Room Tuesdays

Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association, The Fairmont San Jose, San JoseWinery representative will pour & be available for vine talk. 5-7pmwww.fairmont.com, www.scmwa.com, 800-441-1414, 831-685-8463

FEBRUARY 22

J. Lohr Wine & Cheese Fridays

San Jose, 5:30-7:30pm, www.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

FEBRUARY 23

Bottle Your Own at Guglielmo WineryMorgan Hill, 10am-3pm, 408-779-2145www.guglielmowinery.com

MARCH 7

J. Lohr Wine & Appetizer Pairing Seminar

San Jose, 6:30-8:30pm, $30, RSVPwww.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

MARCH 21

J. Lohr Wine 101 Series:

Sauvignon Blanc Appreciation

San Jose, 6:30-9pm, $30, RSVPwww.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

ONGOING

Thursday Night Music Series

Bargetto Winery, Soquel, Enjoy music, food & Bargetto wine! 6-8pmwww.bargetto.com, 831-475-2258x11

FEBRUARY 22

Totally 80s - Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Benefit

The Mountain Winery, Saratoga, 7-10:30pmwww.mountainwinery.com, 408-913-7124

FEBRUARY 23

Intro to Wine Tasting

Regale Winery, Los Gatos, $35www.regalewine.com, 408-353-2500

FEBRUARY 24

Annual Crab Feed Benefit

The Mountain Winery, Saratoga, 4-8pm, $65, $35/kidswww.mountainwinery.com, 408-913-7124

MARCH 2

Beginning Wine Appreciation


MARCH 3

Annual Crab Feed Benefit

The Mountain Winery, Saratoga, 4-8pm, $65, $35/kidswww.mountainwinery.com, 408-913-7124

MARCH 16

Intro to Food & Wine Pairing


MARCH 23-24

Pinot Paradise Santa Cruz Mountains

Winegrowers Association

Visit participating wineries & events in Campbell, www.scmwa.com

MARCH 30-31

Wine Tasting Weekend

Villa del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

APRIL 27-28

Wine Tasting Weekend

Villa del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

ONGOING

Sierra Railroad

www.sierrarailroad.com, Oakdale, 800-866-1690 Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 23: Saturday Night Dinner Apr 3: Scenic Lunch

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

ONGOINGSacramento River Train

www.sacramentorivertrain.com, 800-866-1690 Feb 23: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 2: Sacramento Beer Train Mar 9: Scenic Lunch Mar 16: Murder Mystery Mar 23, 26, 30-31: Easter Egg Express Apr 6: Great Train Robbery Dinner

ONGOING

Mondavi Center for the Performing ArtsU.C. Davis, www.mondaviarts.org, 866-754-ARTS Feb 22: Robert Randolph presents The Slide Brothers Mar 3: Young Artists Competition Winners Concert Mar 6-9: Julian Lage Group Mar 7: Sarah Chang, violin Mar 12: The Improvised Shakespeare Company Mar 15-22: Cashore Marionettes Mar 15, 17: St. Louis Symphony Mar 19: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Mar 23-24: Lara Downes & Build Mar 25: The 400 Blows and Antoine and Colette

SUISUN VALLEY

THURSDAY NIGHTS

Date Night at MankasTapas Bar & Steakhouse

Fairfield, $49/couple for a 3 course dinnerwww.mankassteakhouse.com, 707-425-3207

SUNDAY NIGHTSGrand Master Tasting

at Mankas Tapas Bar & SteakhouseFairfield, $29/ dinner & tastingwww.mankassteakhouse.com, 707-425-3207

ONGOINGWines by the Glass

Winterhawk Winery, FairfieldWine & complimentary pizza 1-6pm, Live music 2-5pmwww.winterhawkwinery.com, 707-428-6977

ONGOINGCommunity Service Sundays

Winterhawk Winery, FairfieldWine tasting, wine by the glass & food, 1:30-5:30pmwww.winterhawkwinery.com, 707-428-6977

FEBRUARY 23

Vezr Family VineyardHosts Annual Bridal FaireFairfield 707-429-3935, vezerfamilyvineyard.com

MARCH 22Pick Up Party

at Vezer Family VineyardSuisun Valley, 888-823-8463www.vezerfamilyvineyard.com

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

SOLANO COUNTY

Check the website for many more event

www.winecountrythisweek.com

Email Your Evens o

[email protected]

For best results, send your emails at least 6 to 8

weeks prior to the date of your event. Event listing

are free, and published as space is available and a

the discretion of Wine Country This Week.


21/88 2www.WneCunrythWeek.c

WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK | WiNE CoUNtRY NEW

PINK MANSIONThe perfect Napa wine tasting experience. Valley or forest views from each room, lavish breakfast and afternoonwine tasting, large indoor heated pool and Jacuzzi, in-room massage and facials available.

1415 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga 1-800-238-7465www.pinkmansion.com

BRANNAN COTTAGE INNSix spacious, comfortable rooms with garden views, private entrances, private baths, queen-size beds and a refrig-erator. Two mini-suites have sitting rooms with televisions as well. Air conditioning and ceiling fans ensure comfortduring summertime visits. Down comforters and fireplaces for cozy and romantic evenings.109 Wapoo St, Calistoga [email protected] (707) 942-4200

LEDSON HOTELSLuxury hotel situated on historic Sonoma Plaza. Six individually decorated roomswith king-size bed, whirlpool baths, fireplace and balconies.Appointed with antique grandeur paired with modern amenities. (707) 996-9779480 First Street East, Sonoma www.ledsonhotel.com

INN AT THE TIDESBay views, walking distance to shopping, restaurants; swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, sauna; roomwith views and fireplaces; massage available; continental breakfast 1-800-541-7800 Highway One, Bodega Bay www.InnattheTides.c

VINTNERS INNForty-four spacious rooms and suites with balconies or patios;

surrounded by vineyards. 1-800-421-24350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa www.vintnersinn.c

CALDERWOOD INNAn historic Victorian Inn in the heart of Healdsburg

25 W. Grant Street, Healdsburg [email protected] 707-431-11

HILTON GARDEN INN2200 Gateway Court (707) 426-69Fairfield www.hiltongardeninn.c

HOLIDAY INN ExPRESS HOTEL & SUITES316 Pittman Road (707) 864-37Fairfield www.hiepress.c

LONE OAK LODGEWithin minutes to aquarium, wineries, Monterey Harbor, shopping, taverns, restaurants, etc.1-800-283-5663 www.loneoaklodge.c

SONOMA COUNTY NORTHERN

MONTEREY BAY/CENTRAL COAST

FAIRFIELD/SUISUN VALLEY

SONOMA COUNTY COAST

SONOMA COUNTY SOUTHERN

NAPA VALLEY

CANDLELIGHT INN

Private baths; TV/phone and AC;

two-person marble jacuzzis

and fireplaces; balconies or decks;

three-course gourmet breakfast,

hors doeuvres, wine and sherry

in the evening;

luxurious 30'x60'; swimming pool

1045 Eau dre, Napa1-800-624-0395canlelhnn.c

LODGINGLook for more lodging options o

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

For two days wine lovers will gather for the 16th Annual Rhone

Rangers San Francisco Celebration of American Rhone Wines at Fort

Masons Festival Pavilion, during the largest American Rhone wine

event in the country. Taste more than 500 of the best American

Rhone wines from more than 100 Rhone Rangers member wineries.

Tickets are now on sale at www.rhonerangers.org.

The 16th annual San Francisco events will include two days of

celebration:

Friday, March 22, 6 PM, Winemaker Dinner

Fifteen wineries will join together for a winemaker dinner and live

auction at the historic Generals Residence at Fort Mason. During the

dinner, the Rhone Rangers will award their first Lifetime Achievement

Award. The dinner will be catered by Sonomas the Girl & the Fig

Restaurant (famous for its Rhone Alone wine list).

Saturday, March 24, 10 AM 12:45 PM Seminar Series

This years seminar series will cover two exciting topics: Old World

Inspiration, New World Innovation and Mourvdre: A Rising Star inthe World of American Rhones featuring six wines (red and ros) that

are based on the grape known as Mourvdre, Mataro, Monastrell and at

least fifty other names depending on where it is grown.

One ticket, the Saturday Events Pass, will admit guests to both semina

as well as the Trade & VIP Tasting beginning at 1 p.m.

Saturday, March 23, 1-3 PM

Trade & VIP Tasting. Over 100 wineries will pour more than 500 win

for members of the wine trade and media. Credentialed members of th

wine trade and wine media can register at: www.rhonerangers.org.

Saturday, March 23, 3-6 PM

Grand Tasting General Admission. The wine tasting continues with

consumers invited to enter from 3 to 6 p.m.to sample wines from over

100 wineries pouring more than 500 wines. Specialty food vendors wi

also sample gourmet food items and food trucks will provide more

substantive food items for purchase.

Tickets are now on sale and the public is invited to purchase th

online at www.rhonerangers.org. For more information, call 1-80

467-0163.

Ticket prices are $275 for Weekend Pass (includes the winemak

dinner, seminars and VIP entry to the grand tasting); $150 forSaturday Pass (includes the seminars and VIP entry to the grand

tasting); $150 for Winemaker Dinner; $50 for Grand Tasting in

advance and $5 at the door.

16th Annual Rhone Rangers Weekend Celebratio


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WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

22 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

CHARLES CREEK VINEYARDTasting Room and Gallery on Sonoma PlazaBY ALEXANDRA CHARSLEY

Sonoma Valley is an ideal destination for wine and food enthusiasts and theres no

better place to visit than the Historic Sonoma Plaza. Located in the center of town, the

Sonoma Plaza is a National Historic Landmark and boasts shaded picnic areas, a duckpond, and childrens play areas. Preserved old adobe storefronts grace the perimeter with

plenty of shopping or dining and this is where you will find the Charles Creek Vineyard

Tasting Room and Gallery. Their large cork cow sculpture, Ms. Moo-lot, beckons visitor

into their warm and welcoming tasting room for a sampling of their award-winning win

Charles Creek Vineyard was founded in 2002 by Bill and Gerry Brinton, both from th

Midwest and both bringing these same Midwestern values to Sonoma. Bill is a direct

descendent of John Deere and Gerry grew up helping her grandmother tend to their

garden. This appreciation has led them to produce exceptional food friendly wines at a

reasonable price.

Bill and Gerry work closely with Winemaker Kerry Damskey to craft each wine in th

portfolio. Kerry has more than 25 years of winemaking experience on four continents an

brings both expertise and perspective to Charles Creek Vineyard. Since its inception,

Charles Creek has been a leader in the production of award-winning wines. They have a

extensive portfolio and use their estate grown fruit as well as source the best grapes

throughout Sonoma and Napa Valley to continue producing premium wine that they ha

become known for. Bill enjoys vineyard selection and development, as well as the critic

evaluation and blending of the juice from grapes into wine.

The tasting room pours their current releases as well as some library wines and they

also offer a vertical tasting of their Chardonnay. Their award winning Chardonnays in

current release are the 2010 Las Patolitas Sonoma County Chardonnay Gold Medal

Points at CA State Fair plus Gold at SF Chronicle Competition; 2009 Saralees Vineyard

TASTING ROOM AND GALLERY

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. | 483 1st St W, Sonoma, CA 95476(707) 935-3848 | www.charlescreek.com

Visit the website and click on the link Gerrys Recipesto find her

food and wine pairings as well as her fabulous recipes. So, if you are

looking for a delicious new meal to pair with your Charles Creek wines,

check out their website and bring a little bit of Sonoma to your home!


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATU

2

Russian River Valley

Chardonnay-Double-Gold at SF

Chronicle Competition; 2008

La Sorpresa Sangiacomo

Vineyard Chardonnay-Gold

Medal at SF Chronicle. Their

2011 dry Ros of Syrah is alovely introduction to the

concept of REAL Ros, as

opposed to the sweet versions

that became common in the

latter half of the 20th century.

Their friendly informative staff

will guide you through

selections based on your

preferences. You can also taste

their Cabernet Sauvignon and

finish with one of their dessert

wines. With any wine purchase,

the tasting fee is waived. Their

wines are sold exclusively in the

tasting room or online at

www.charlescreek.com.

In addition to wine tasting,

the tasting room also provides

space to showcase the work of

local artists. Ms. Moo-lot is the

work of local artist Gretchen

Gardner and adds a little

whimsy to the interior. An

exhibition of oil paintings from

plein air to still life by local

artist Loretta Loy-Adair is now

on display. If you miss this

showing, theres sure to be

another local artists work for

you to enjoy while sipping wine.


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WiNE CoUNtRY NEWs | WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

Anre Napa valley Wnery tea-up wh il P a Liala n vn

Known for its majestic setting, Tuscan-inspired estate and great C

Ital style wine, the Andretti Winery continues its tradition of creating

memorable dining experiences with the addition of Il Posto chef Ada

Clark to its roster of visiting chefs. Throughout the season, winery

guests will be able to savor the traditional Italian fare of Napa Valleys

Posto Trattoria, paired with signature Andretti wines.

With the addition of the Il Posto Trattoria cuisine, the winery furt

enhances its year-round dining program. Founded by legendary race

car driver Mario Andretti, the Andretti estate is home to a 42-acrevineyard, winery, barrel-aging chai and an Italianate dining room, in

which Il Posto Trattoria will offer elegant and simple lunches and

dinners. The philosophy behind the Andretti Winery dining

experiences is to create a place to celebrate family, friends, food and l

the traditional Italian way, commented Mario Andretti, winery

founder.

At Andretti, Il Posto will be creating dinners and lunches, all pair

with Andretti wines. Andretti Winery is renowned for its portfolio of

fine wines featuring traditional regional varietals, such as Cabernet

Sauvignon and Chardonnay, as well as luxury Italian varietals,

Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio and Dolcetto. Il Postos cuisine is an idealcomplement to our portfolio, commented Joe Antonini, Chairman a

Cofounder of Andretti. The style, the quality and the commitment t

top notch seasonal Italian fare are what were all about. Time spent

around the table with friends and family, sharing a great meal and bo

of wine defines Andretti.

A sample dinner menu might include a first course of roasted bee

house-made ricotta, hazelnuts, arugula, a second course of raviolo, e

yolk, nettle ricotta, pancetta, watercress, followed by a main course

rabbit cacciatore-porcini, orzo, carrots and finished with a dessert of

dark chocolate tiramisu, all paired with Andretti wines.

At Andretti Winery, dinner is served at 7 p.m., lunch at noon. Th

price for dinner is $95 per person; lunch is $80 per person, both wit16-guests maximum. Dinner dates are March 16, March 30, April 13

April 20, May 17, May 25, June 8, June 22, July 5, July 19. Lunch da

are April 27, July 27. Events are private and by appointment only. To

make reservations, call Tenaya at 1-888-460-8463 Ext. 229 .

Reservations should be made at least 48 hours prior to requested dat

Located in the heart of the legendary Napa Valley, Andretti Winery

exudes Old World Charm. Modeled after a rambling Italian village, th

winery conjures up the boyhood home of its namesake, Mario Andre

considered to be the greatest race car driver of all time.

For more information, visit www.andrettiwinery.com

Andretti Winery UnveilLatest Edition to its

Visiting Chef Program

ANDRETTI WINERYOpen daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4162 Big Ranch Road, Napa CA 94558(707) 259-6777 | andrettiwinery.com


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WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK | WiNERY FEAtUR

2



ON THE COVER | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

PROVENANCE VINEYARDLocation, Location, LocationBY JOSH STEIN

Provenance Vineyards, as the name suggests, is all about what goes o

the vineyard. Winemakers Tom Rinaldi and Chris Cooney have develop

close grower relations and spend a great deal of time walking the vineyaTheir minimal intervention during winemaking ensures that each wine

shows off the unique personality of its origin. The key to their success is

time and energy they put into the only thing that truly matters in wine:

land.

Indeed, provenance means origin or source, and can be used to r

to the complete record of ownership that establishes an artworks

authenticity beyond question. In winemaking, provenance points to a w

origins how one can trace what is in the glass directly back to the

vineyard. This name was chosen for the winery because all of its release

made from grapes that come from hallowed ground in the winemaking

world. In other words, the resulting wines are works of art in the bottle

because they clearly show the uniqueness of their origins.

Provenances vineyards, whether they are owned directly by the wine

or by some of the valleys best growers, are historic and well-known site

Most winemakers never encounter vineyards of this quality during their

careers; the winemakers at Provenance have access to several. These inc

the Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard, Provenance Vineyards Rutherford

estate, the Three Palms Vineyard in Calistoga, the Beckstoffer Las Amiga

Vineyard in Carneros, and the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakvill

which has been producing internationally recognized, award-winning

Cabernets since 1889.

PROVENANCE VINEYARDS

Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for major holidays.Appointments are not necessary but are appreciated for groups over six.

1695 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94574 | (707) 968-3633 | www.provenancevineyards.com

2 FOR 1 PREMIER TASTING & 10% DISCOUNT ON WINE PURCHASE AT TIME OF VISIT

*SOME RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. Not able to be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/2013

Please enjoy our wines responsibly. 2013 Provenance Vineyards, Rutherford, CA


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | ON THE COV

Come and experience the history and

pastoral setting with picnic grounds,a bocce court and a horse shoe pit.

Tours & Tastings offered daily

Exclusive Group & LunchPackages by appointment

Open Daily 11-56613 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, CA 9456(707) 965-1246 www.popevalleywinery.com

PREMIUM NAPA VALLEY WINES FOUNDED IN 1897

Adjacent to the winery itself is the Hewitt Vineyard, first

planted more than 130 years ago, and from which only one wine is

made: the limited-release Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. Rather

than using other varietals as part of a blend, Tom Rinaldi uses the

best grapes from a variety of clones in the fifty-eight-acre vineyard

to achieve each years bottling. Its celebrated, enticing note of violet

is a hallmark of the vineyard, not present in wines from other

Rutherford locations.

Tasting Provenance wines is something special. Unlike many

other wineries, Provenances property evokes Old Napa the minute

you move away from the highway. The red farmhouse that greets

you is surrounded by vineyards and an extensive lawn, which is

how 19th-century winemakers throughout the valley laid out their

winery homesteads. Inside, the tasting room is bright and airy,

with high ceilings and an art-gallery feel. The intimacy of the room

is accented by the floor, which is made from the barrelheads and

staves from 960 barrels from the winerys first vintage, and by a

large window that overlooks the goings-on in the barrel room.Provenance is well known for its Cabernets and Merlots, but a

number of extremely small bottlings cant be found elsewhere.

These include the aforementioned Beckstoffer To Kalon Cab do

not miss out! as well as library releases of small-lot Merlots and

aged Cabernets, the Bordeaux-style Winemakers Reserve Blend,

and the delicious Ruby Cabernet Port. We come to Napa for wines

with a certain attitude, for wines that let us know they came from

one exact special spot. The winemakers at Provenance Vineyards,

thanks to the quality of their vineyards, produce wines that do just

that. Enjoy!


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WiNE CoUNtRY NEWs | WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

28

WiNEmAKER PRoFiLE

gRANt HERmANNBennett Lane WineryBY JOSH STEIN

Big reds can sometimes mean lots of pretense, posturing, and extre

pricing, resulting in an emphasis on things which take away from sim

enjoying wine and the people wo have produced it. Happily, there is

antidote to such a situation, and its name is Bennett Lane, owned by

Randy and Lisa Lynch, who have only been in the wine business for adecade, but whose wines have made quite an impact throughout the

wine world. These folks know Cabernet in a few short years like few

others ever have in the Valley, and theyve done so without pricing th

wines through the roof or putting on airs in the process. These may b

relatively new folks to Napa, but that doesnt mean theyre new Napa

you know what I mean.

Grant Hermann first joined Bennett Lane in 2005 as Cellar Master

line with the Lynches guiding philosophy, Grants focus at Bennett La

is to produce wines of distinction from special vineyards throughout

Valley. And, as one might expect, the way to do this is to be a local w

Open Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 3340 California 128, Calistoga, CA 94515(707) 942-6684 | www.bennettlane.com


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2

knows the Valley as his birthright. Raised in Yountville and Napa,

Grant who now works with some of Napas top vineyards at

Bennett Lane was also a part-time firefighter in the town of

Calistoga, where he lives with his family.

Grant gained early vineyard experience on his familys one-acre

parcel of Chardonnay in Yountville and opted for the way almostValley winemakers learned in the old days: Im a hands-on

winemaker and have been fortunate to align myself with great

mentors over the years. I truly enjoy being intimately involved in

the transition of grape to wine, he says. In 1990, he took a job as

a harvest worker and then subsequently spent over a decade

working his way upwards in many capacities, learning the

importance of sourcing local fruit and attention to detail; he notes

he was thrilled to have the opportunity to get his hands purple

when he joined the team at Bennett Lane.

The best way to enjoy Benntt Lane wines is at the tasting room

and winery, which is positioned at the dove-tailing wedge of th

eastern Vaca and western Mayacamas at the top of the Valley. Th

combination of soil, exposure and breeze makes about as perfect

spot for wine as exists anywhere on the planet, and the Cabernet

vines produce wines that sell out over and over again. Oh, andthose vines have helped Bennett lane produce thirty-four wines

scoring 90+ points in less than a decade. Theres no pretense,

though, just a focus on great wines and relaxation.

Do yourself a favor and head to the top of the Valley for wines

unlike anyone elses produced by a Napa local whos learned to d

the Old Napa way. Bennett Lanes the place for you if you wan

vineyard-driven releases without the pomp and circumstance.

Enjoy!

Continued



miNi LAmB sKEWERs WitH miNt sAUCE ANd WHoLE WHEAt CoUsCoUsPairing for Judds Hill 2009 Cabernet Franc 4 servingINGREDIENTS

PREPARATION

In a medium bowl combine lamb, cumin, paprika, turmeric. Season with salt and pepper; massageusing hands and making sure to coat all meat evenly. Set aside and allow resting for 15 minutes.While beef marinates, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium high heat. Combinedry couscous with minced garlic in a deep bowl or container with a tight lid. Drizzle with olive oiland season with salt and pepper. Add hot liquid carefully, stir with a spoon and cover with lid. Letcouscous hydrate for at least 15 minutes.

Combine mint, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon rind in a deep glass container. Mix usingimmersing blender (may do in regular blender); adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to serve.Assemble all skewers starting and ending with red bell pepper and making sure to add onions oneach side and in-between cubes of lamb. Grill on high heat for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently, fomedium (some pink in the middle).Fluff couscous onto a large bowl using a fork, trying to break up any clumps formed. May drizzlewith some additional olive oil, mixing with a fork.

PLATING

Serve 3 mini skewers over a bed of fluffy couscous. Using a spoon, add some mint sauce over entiredish. Enjoy!!

Judds Hill Winery has an exciting partnership with

Chef Alejandra Schrader from the popular TV show

MasterChef and she has been creating delicious recipes

to highlight Judds Hill wines. She has established her

presence in the culinary world and is currently

working on a cookbook, new media projects andleading cooking demonstrations at prestigious food

and wine festivals around the country. Since she was

raised in Caracas, Venezuela and chooses a fit lifestyle,

her dishes are loaded with flavor while still being

nutritious.

This lamb recipe is a perfect introduction to the

long anticipated grilling season and better yet, its

healthy and delicious. While lamb hasnt graced my

barbecue grill, these succulent lamb skewers paired

with the Judds Hill 2009 Cabernet Franc will make a

wonderful addition for the upcoming season. Themarinade adds warmth and character to the lamb

while the beautiful acidity from the sauce rounds out

the entire dish. The 2009 Judds Hill Cabernet Franc

has an intensely deep ruby color and is so pronounced

that it is the perfect complement to this meal. The

complex nose offers aromas of blueberry, boysenberry,

violets, crushed sage, peppercorn and currants. Silky

smooth tannins give way to lush mouthwatering

flavors of star anise, strawberry, blackberry, chocolate

covered espresso beans and black tea. The finish is

lingering with freshly cut vanilla bean, toffee and

coffee. This 100% Cabernet Franc is jam packed with

complexity, richness and depth that opens the doors to

an overabundance of culinary creations.

Judds Hill Winery is located right off the Silverado

Trail from downtown Napa. Their tasting room is open

daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by advance appointment

so be sure to call ahead, (707) 255-2332. For more

recipes to be paired with any of Judds Hills food

friendly wines, please visit their website at

www.juddshill.com and get inspired!

Chef Schraders

Mini Lamb SkewersPaired with Judds Hill2009 Cabernet Franc

1.5 lb boneless lamb shoulder steak,trimmed and cut in 1-inch cubes

tsp ground cumin tsp smoked paprika tsp turmeric Coarse sea salt Freshly ground pepper 1 cups whole wheat couscous 2 cups low sodium chicken broth (may

substitute with vegetable broth)

1 lg garlic clove, finely minced cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice tsp lemon rind 2 red bell peppers, cut in 1.5-inch squares 1 large brown onion, cut in 1.5-inch squares You will need 5 bamboo skewers; soak in

water for 20 minutes before grilling

Perfect Pairs BY ALEXANdRA CHARsLEY


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CoNCiERgE Q & A: What are your personal favorites?

Remember: Please sip responsibly! Plan to taste at no more than three wineries based on these recommendations.

CoNCiERgE FAvoRitEs | WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

NANCY BoERUmCONCIERGE, MACARTHUR PLACE INN & SPA

WCtW: What is your favorite varietal?

NB: For a long time now, my favorite varietal hasbeen Pinot Noir, and I suspect this is not likely to

change! Pinot is a wine that is, with a few

exceptions, very food friendly. Whats even better

is its so available here in Sonoma and we have the

ideal climate to grow this somewhat complex

varietal, whether it be nearby in the Carneros or

further away in the Sonoma Coast and the RussianRiver areas. Both have the cool marine climate that

this grape requires as its skin is too thin for our

hot valley sun. The cooler the site, the longer the

growing season which gives this grape a better

chance to attain overall structure and mature

tannins. I love the Pinot Places, as I call them, in

the Carneros: Saintsbury, Acacia, Etude and

Adastra where you can enjoy a genuinely

personal experience with tasting room staff just

10-15 minutes away from MacArthur Place. The

scenery and views provide a gorgeous backdrop

for a wine tasting experience.

North of us on Highway 12 in Glen Ellen, there is

a new tasting room, Talisman, that has the most

amazing single-vineyard Pinots! Try the side-by-

side tasting there and youll be hooked. I dont

know which I liked better, the seductive nose or

the elgant flavors on each! From the bright ruby

hue to the earthy minerality to the silky

mouthfeel the hallmark of a well-crafted Pinot

Noir I cant think of a better way to end the day

in wine country than with a glass of this alluring

varietal.

my ParraGUEST SERVICES, MILLIKEN CREEK INN & SPA

WCtW: If you were to visit just one winery, whichwould you choose and why?

mP: Its hard to pick just one winery because itreally depends on what type of experience theguest is looking for.Jarvis Winery offers abeautiful cave tour with a natural waterfall, aknowledgeable and friendly staff, wonderful winesand a sit down tasting with cheeses. I would alsorecommend Round Pond Estate, they have boththe winery and the olive mill, that offers quite aselection of fun things to do.

WCtW: Where do you send guests that want tolearn about wine?

mP:Joseph Phelps has some great seminars. Ialso love Dean at Sequoia Grove, he really has agreat sit down tasting and is very knowledgeable.

WCtW: Where would you take friends to learnabout/taste organic wines?

mP: Frogs Leap. Love their gardens and laid backapproach to things.

WCtW: What areas would you recommend thatare not part of the popular wine country?

mP: Coombsville District Ackerman Family

Vineyards; also Chiles AVA Volker Eisele is agreat wine and great down-to-earth experience.

WCtW: Tell us the best wineries to bring pets.mP: Raymond Vineyards is set up beautifully forbringing your dogs, I also like Regusci Winery.Theyve got plenty of their own dogs runningaround and its a beautiful property, not tomention great wines!

WCtW: Which wineries have the best wine-related gifts items?

mP: Sutter Home has a great selection of wine-related gifts.

Kahy Cay, CncereSAN FRANCISCO MARRIOTT UNION SQUARMember, Les Clefs d'Or, USA

WCtW: Describe the perfect day in wine countKC:Visiting some of my favorites: Stating innorthern Napa, Id visit Castello di Amorosa,Sequoia Grove, Salvestrin before stopping atOxbow Market for a quick bite and crossing thstreet to visit Gustavo Thrace. In Sonoma, Idstop at Buena Vista (love the Count) and finisthe day at Rams Gate.

WCtW: Which winery has your favorite cave to

KC: Schramsburg is my favorite of course yocan drink sparkling wine anywhere, but its spwhen youre in a cave!

WCtW: What winery do you think has the besover-the-top experience to offer visitors?

KC: Raymond with its Crystal Room, ability make your own blend

WCtW: Where do you send guests that want tolearn about wine?

KC: Beringer go to the source. Its the oldestcontinuously operating winery in Napa and thfirst to offer public tours.

WCtW: What wineries would you recommendthat are not part of the popular wine country?

KC: Tres Sabores and Vice Versa, off WhitehaLane near St. Helena, offer diverse and personaexperiences (including movie night in thevineyards!) On Silverado Trail ZD Wines fofamily-oriented look at winemaking.

WCtW: Who is your favorite new winery or hospot wine bar/tasting room?

KC: Not necessarily new, but my favorite tastinroom is Williamson Wines off the Plaza inHealdsburg

WCtW: Tell us the best wineries to bring pets.KC: Honig Vineyard and Winery welcomes p


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The 11th Annual Pinot Noir Summit, hosted by Affairs of the

Vine, will take place on Saturday, March 16 at Herbst at The Presidio

in San Francisco.

Wine-loving consumers, trade and press will gather at Herbst at

The Presidio to taste and assess the amazing wines submitted to this

years Pinot Noir Shootout competition. Attendees will pit theirpalates against the expert judging panel at the Pinot Noir Showdown,

attend two Pinot Noir Workshops and attend the Grand Awards

Tasting & Ceremony.

The event is the culmination of the 11th Pinot Noir Shootout

Competition, the largest competitive tasting of Pinot Noir in the

world. More than 400 Pinot Noirs from top growing regions within

the New World were entered and tasted over an eight-week period byan expert panel consisting of wine writers, winemakers and wine

educators.

The Pinot Noir Showdown brings a unique component to the day

as attendees blind taste 40 of the top wines selected by the

professional judging panel. Male and female votes are talliedseparately and the results are announced at the Grand Tasting &

Awards Ceremony.

The evolution and advancement in excellence of Pinot Noir over

the past 11 years has been truly amazing, stated Barbara Drady,

President and Chief Wine Evangelist of Affairs of the Vine, the

company that developed and manages the Pinot Noir Summit. There

is no doubt that the bar has been raised dramatically over the past 11

years as the number and outstanding quality of the wines we tastefrom diverse regions across the New World has increaseddramatically.

The Pinot Noir Summit wraps up with The Pinot Noir ShootouGrand Tasting & Awards Ceremony. Wineries will pour their fabul

Pinot Noirs for attendees and discuss one on one their approach aphilosophy. A selection of Pinot-friendly hors doeuvres will beserved. During the Grand Tasting, awards will be presented to thisyears winners from both the Blind Tasting and the professionallyjudged Pinot Noir Shootout.

Pn Nr su scheuleAll Day Access Includes two workshops, Blind Tasting and

Grand Tasting & Awards Ceremony 12:30-3 p.m. Workshops conducted by winemakers,

viticulturalists and wine educators. 3-5:30 p.m. Pinot Noir Showdown A Blind Tasting of 40 of the top wines

6-8:30 p.m. Grand Awards Tasting & Ceremony Top Pinot Nwinemakers will showcase their wines with a Pinot-friendlyselection of light hors doeuvres. The winners will be unveiled anfinal results will be announced at 7:45 p.m. (Tickets may bepurchased separately).

Pinot Noir Summit tickets are $75-$125. Visit affairsofthevine.comHerbst at the Presidio is located at 385 Moraga Avenue, Golden GaNational Recreation Area, San Francisco, CA 94129.

11th Annual Pinot Noir Summit Continues Legac


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NAPA vALLEY| WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK

tAstiNg Room oF tHE WEEK:

moNtiCELLo viNEYARdsCoRLEY FAmiLY NAPA vALLEY

Come and Enjoy the Important Things in Life: Friends Family Hospitality!

BY MONICA L. DASHWOOD

Surround yourself in the beauty that is Monticello Vineyards, locate

on Big Ranch Road between Highway 29 and Silverado Trail in the hea

of Napa Valley. Come and experience the full glory of Monticellos awar

winning, small-lot wines, exquisite rose gardens and historical

architecture the Jefferson House built in honor of Thomas Jefferson, a

great wine and food enthusiast himself.

Jay Corley, the founder of Monticello Vineyards, shares many passio

with Mr. Jefferson both were farmers, both grew estate grapes on theiproperty and both believed good food, fine wine and hospitality were,

and are, necessities to living a good life.

At Monticello Vineyards, you will understand the breadth and dept

Napa Valley in every vintage. Today, Jays sons, Kevin, Chris and Stephe

farm five vineyards in the Napa Valley their Home Ranch Vineyard an

Knollwood Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District planted for Cabernet

Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah vines and their State

Lane Vineyard in Yountville, Tietjen Vineyard in Rutherford and Yewell

Vineyard in St. Helena each planted for Cabernet Sauvignon. Since 196

when Jay Corley first envisioned Monticello Vineyards, the Corley fami

has grown, made and sold their wines with a gentle hand, mixed in wiperseverance and discipline, offering a total experience that is a reflectio

of their love for the land and wine.

Their rustic and welcoming tasting room, adorned with twinkling

white lights over their red barreled wine bar, offers the perfect setting to

sample their newly released wines, such as the 2011 Monticello Vineya

Estate Grown Chardonnay, 2010 Jefferson Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon

2009 Corley Proprietary Red Wine. You can stop in without an

appointment and try a wide variety of wines. Their staff, knowledgeabl

and personable, takes pride in pouring their Estate Grown wines. Ther

you can sample four wines for just $15. Wine is also available by the gl

for your enjoyment in the garden or the courtyard.

For a more formal sit-down tasting affair, you may reserve the Jeffers

House Reserve Room by appointment for groups up to 16. You have

several choices of tastings experiences: Monticello Vineyard Wines, fou

for $25; Corley Reserve Wines and Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvigno

Wines, four for $35; or indulge in a wine and cheese pairing, four win

and a selection of four cheeses for $50. For group visits (17-30), you ca

taste three wines in the gardens or winery cellar for $20 per person.

You will be pleased to see how they have the standards that Mr.

Jefferson felt most important in life: Family Friends Hospitality!

MONTICELLO VINEYARDSCORLEY FAMILY NAPA VALLEY

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.4242 Big Ranch Road, Napa CA 94558

707-253-2802 (ext. 18) | www.corleyfamilynapavalley.com


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www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WiNE CoUNtRY tHis WEEK | NAPA vALL

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sn up fr ur eal newleer a www.WneCunrythWeek.c36

Welcome toY O U N T V I L L E

Ppular Een Feaure Wne Cunry Blck Parywh Yunlle Celebrae Reauran an Wnere,aln wh Napa valley open su Ar Een

Yountville, the Culinary Capital of the Napa Valley, will host the

20th Annual Taste of Yountville celebration March 15-16, to

showcase the towns finest food, wine and arts. Taste of Yountville will

culminate in a town-wide block party on Saturday, March 16th in

which food and wine lovers can experience the best of local favorites

while strolling along Washington Street.

In addition to the Taste of Yountville block party, the town will

host several special events throughout the celebration, including local

fine arts events hosted by the Yountville Arts Committee, specialcooking demonstrations and guided tours of The French Laundrys

garden.

Fray, march 15

The Yountville Arts Committee will present the popular Taste of

Yountville Show & Sale Artist Reception hosted by Napa Valley Open Studio Artists from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The artist reception will be a

one-of-a-kind opportunity to meet as many as 45 of Napa Valleys

most prestigious local artists, and view their work on display,

including fine art, ceramics, glass, jewelry and mixed media, at the

Yountville Community Center. Admission is $10 and all works wi

be available for purchase during the two-day sale through Saturday

March 16, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the YountvilleArts Committee. For more information, visit the Napa Valley Open

Studio Artists website at www.napavalleyopenstudios.info/taste-of-

yountville.html.

sauray, march 16

The celebration will culminate with the feature event, the 20th

Annual Taste of Yountville block party, where the towns acclaimed

restaurants and wineries will offer savory bites, micro brews and

Yountvilles finest wine along pedestrian-friendly Washington Stree

The event will take place from noon to 5 p.m., and admission is fr

Tasting tickets to experience many of Yountvilles restaurants and

dozens of Napa Valley wineries are only $1 each.Taste of Yountville block party participating restaurants have

previously included: Bistro Jeanty, Bouchon, Bottega, etoile at

Domaine Chandon, Hurleys Restaurant & Bar, Lucy Restaurant &

Bar at Bardessono, NapaStyle, aninoteca, Pacific Blues and Redd.

Past participating wineries included: Bell Wine Cellars, Cliff Led

Vineyards, Domaine Chandon, Girard Winery, Cornerstone Cellar

Goosecross Cellars, Hopper Creek Winery, Jessup Cellars and

Somerston Wine Company.

A special garden tour of The Frenc

Nor Cal Edition - March 1, 2013

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