Nor Cal Edition - September 18, 2009
Transcript of Nor Cal Edition - September 18, 2009
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winecountrythisweek.com E A S Y - TO - F O L L O W W I N E R Y M A PS S E P T E M B E R 1 8 , 2
O U R G U I D E T O C A L I F O R N I A W I N E , G E T A W A Y S , T H I N G S T O D O & E V E N
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LEDSON WINERY& VINEYARDS
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TASTING ROOM
SIMI WINERPAGE 48
OBRIEN
ESTATEPAGE 46
ST. FRANCIS WINERY
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALSPAGE 28
WINEMAKER PROFILE:
WILLIAM HILL ESTATEPAGE 26
V I N E Y A R D , W I N E M A K I N GA N D G U E S T E X P E R I E N C E
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A W I N N I N G C O M B I N A T I O N
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More than 1,000 distribution points Read by more than 2 million people annually
www.winecountrythisweek.com
669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476
P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433
707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674
PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco
Direct (707) 938-3734
MANAGING EDITOR Chandra Grant
Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674
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Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]
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PO Box 92,El Verano, CA 95433
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EDITORIAL Michelle Baker
CONTRIBUTORS Carole & Daniel Ehrler
Diana Greenwood
Jenna HansenKathleen Thompson Hill
Richard Paul Hinkle
Les Maher
Charles Neave
Nan Reiley
Frances Rivetti
Jeffry Ross
Sue Straight, WineWench
Abigail Zimmerman
S A L E SGeneral Sales Mike Giangreco
707-938-3734, [email protected]
Sonoma, Mendocino MargaretVillarreal
and Lake Counties 707-338-2894, [email protected]
Napa Valley RoseAnn Trzesniewski
707-334-1930, [email protected]
Livermore, Lodi, Mike Giangreco
and Sierra Foothills 707-938-3734, [email protected]
Monterey Bay, Central Coast, Whitney Brem
Santa Cruz Mountains 831-596-4945, [email protected]
Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is prohibited.
Published Weekly Since 1981
Planning a Visit to Central Coast Wine Country?Pick up a copy ofWINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST
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ON THE COVERFlora Springs The Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
WINE COUNTRY NEWS
Wine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-19
Wineology by Len Napolitano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
SPECIAL COUPONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33-47
St. Helena Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39
Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Napa Valley Fine Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45
SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-63
Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-51
Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Santa Rosa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Geyserville Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Healdsburg Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-63
Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Glen Ellen Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Sonoma Plaza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64-65
Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
LIVERMORE VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Livermore Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
LODI/WOODBRIDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Lodi/Woodbridge Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
NORTHERN CENTRAL COAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-73
Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Carmel Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72
Salinas Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
SIERRAS/FOOTHILLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Sierra Foothills Wineries Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75-86
S E P T E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 0 9 I S S U E 3 8 V O L U M E 2 8
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W
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FEATURE
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W
INEMAKER
PROFILE
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W
INE
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EEK
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Black Stallion WineryBlack StallionWinery
Ledson Winery & VineyardsLedson Winery & Vineyards
Flora Springs The RoomFlora Springs The Room
TASTING
ROOM
OF
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EEK
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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
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SimiWinerySimiWinery
Ralf Holdenried,
William Hill Estate
Ralf Holdenried,
William Hill Estate
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Seethe rightsideof theNapaValley wineries map onpage44-45
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WINE CLUB
OF THE WEEK BLACK STALLION WINERYWINECLUBDETAILS
Once your membership is activated youllreceive half a dozen two-bottle shipments
every other month along with the chanceto enjoy many membership only benefits.It costs absolutely nothing to join and youmay cancel your membership at any timeafter your second shipment.
The Black Stallion Mixed Club
Experience the entire range of wines inthe portfolio. Every other month (for atotal of six shipments per year), memberswill receive two bottles chosen by theBlack Stallion winemaker. Average ship-ment costs approximately $45 to $80 (plustax and shipping).
The Black Stallion White Wine Club
Every other month members receive twobottles of the winerys famous whites,which include the Napa ValleyChardonnay, a crisp and refreshing PinotGrigio, and the (eeeever-so-slightly) barrel-aged Sauvignon Blanc.
The Black Stallion Red Wine Club
For red wine lovers this is the club. Everyother month (for a total of six shipmentsper year), members receive two bottleschosen by the winemaker. Average ship-ment costs $60 to $100 (plus tax and ship-ping).
Members of either wine club also receive:
Winery exclusive wines delivered sixtimes a year at 20% off winery prices.
25% discount on reorders of a case ormore of your current club shipmentfor 30 days after receipt.
20% discount on all current releasewines and gift items through the
tasting room and website.
Complimentary tastings in the tastingroom for members and three guestsper visit.
Access to the members-only Club Room.
Invitations to members-only eventsand parties.
Priority access to new releases andclub-only wines.
Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4089 Silverado Trail - Napa(707) 253-1400 - www.blackstallionwinery.com
E
nviably positioned as one of the Napa Valleys newest and most dynamic wineries,
Black Stallion Winery, over on the Silverado Trail, crafts wines that are meant to
reflect the unique characteristics of California terrain, climate and soil and themultitude of unique microclimates as well as the famed winemaking expertise found in
the Napa Valley.Committed to creating ultra-premium wines reflecting the elegance and complexity of
the Oak Knoll District. Black Stallion wines are only available at the winery or through
the website and wine club. As a mark of this exclusivity, Black Stallion Winerys produc-tion remains at only 3,800 cases.
Built on property that once was home to stables and a small local race track, this new
winery was custom built to showcase the wines of this impressive newcomer. To rein-force the equine imagery of the one-time home to champion horses, a 1,200-pound, 10-
foot bronze horse by David Spellerberg, a well-respected Golden State sculptor, rears upatop a fountain in the front of the grand stone winery. It is dramatically situated at the
end of the olive tree-lined drive guarded in the front by two large palm trees.
The winerys expansive tasting room, with a towering ceiling, polished floors and lotsof wood, a majestic stone fireplace to one side and to the other a glass-fronted private
chamber that looks into the barrel room, always seems to be buzzing with activity.
Directly outside the tasting room is a large open space topped with the winerys trade-mark wooden pergolas, architectural elements that will remind you quite graphically of
half-barrels. This is a theme first showcased in the front of the building and one thatprovides a very wine country-oriented symmetry to the overall plan.
Wines poured at the Black Stallion Winery tasting bar might well include a Pinot
Grigio and a subtle Chardonnay, a well-balanced Sauvignon Blanc, on through a dryRos and into the red wines: a Merlot with berry fruit notes, a complex Syrah and
Cabernet Sauvignon, to their one sweet wine, a luscious, juicy, sensory intense Muscat
that is available only in the half bottle (375 ml) size. All in all, the wine tasting menunumbers about eight different pourings, all offered in appropriate crystal stemware to
make the experience even more satisfying.
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY NEW
Over 250 Quality WinesUnder $25 at Wine Garage
Hidden next to a dilapidated 40s-era former filling station on Highway 2
Calistoga lies the Wine Garage. A unique wine shop in Napa Valley that retails
wine in the store under $25. Sound crazy? Its true. And the proprietors Todd Joy Miller, have hit on a niche in the Valley that had been very missed by the lo
there.
There are a lot of winemakers here that cant afford to drink the wine t
make says Miller. Thats crazy, yes, but who can afford to drink a $65 bottle w
dinner every night?
Many people miss The Wine Garage on the first try upvalley, but the searc
well worth it. Miller stocks wine from all of Californias wine growing regi
including fifty Napa selections and 40 from Sonoma County. When he first sou
out buying the initial inventory, I enlisted a local farmer buddy and his 15-
box van and off we went all over California hunting down the deals. I tried to s
out the small producers who didnt have distributors so I could pass the sav
on to my customers. And Miller did just that. His store is stocked with hquality juice all under $25 and all are unique. Most labels in the shop are un
ognizable but all pass the same test; everything passes over Millers lips before
makes a buy. If I dont love it, I dont buy it, period. Sometimes I will taste ov
hundred wines in one day, load up the truck and haul it up to Calistoga, unl
at the store, and maybe I will crawl in bed by 3 a.m. Needless to say my bu
bowed out of the deal after their second trip. I initially recruited him on a hey
go wine tasting in Santa Barbara until he realized how much work it entailed. P
guy, he had to be at the farm at 5 in the morning.
It is all worth it. Millers customers love him. He has a unique ability to he
verbal description of a customers favorite wine and translate that into a rec
mendation for sometimes a third of the cost. I have people all over the coun
that use me as their local wine shop. I ship right to their door and the cost of shipping is a drop in the bucket compared to what they save on the cost of
wine.
Miller gets deals on Napa wine too. I have winemakers from small wine
stop in every week saying I have something that will fit into the store, if they o
have 15 or 25 cases of an end-of-vintage wine I am the perfect outlet for the
So head up to the Wine Garage and check out the best deals in the Valle
1020 Foothill Blvd (Hwy 29), Calistoga, CA 94515. For more information,
(707) 942-5332. You can also check out the website at winegarage.net.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
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ONGOINGFum Bistro & Bar Happy HourNapa, Spirit & snack specials, wine & beer, 4-6pm707-257-1999, www.fumebistro.com
ONGOING WEEKENDS EXCEPT 4THWEEKENDWine Component Tasting Seminarat Merryvale VineyardsSt. Helena, 10:30am-12:30pm, $20, free/club members707-963-7777, www.merryvale.com
EVERY 4TH WEEKENDWine & Food Pairing Seminarat Merryvale Vineyards10:30am-12:30pm, $20, free/club members, St. Helena707-963-7777, www.merryvale.com
ONGOING THURSDAYS & FRIDAYSWine & Food PairingsPeju ProvinceWinery, Rutherford, 11am, Wine & Cheese Pairing1pm: Wine & Tapas Pairing, www.peju.com, 800-446-7358
ONGOINGPrivate ToursGoosecross Cellars, Yountville, $25, RSVP 707-944-1986, www.goosecross.com
ONGOINGEpicurean ExplorationsGoosecross Cellars, Yountville, Minimum 6 people, $95/3-course lunch$135/5-course lunch, RSVP 707-944-1986, www.goosecross.com
FIRST FRIDAY THROUGH OCTOBERCheers! St. HelenaDowntown St. Helena,Taste wine & enjoy live music while strolling! 6-9pm$5/taste, $35/nightly pass, ww w.cheerssthelena.com
ONGOING WEEKENDSReserve Roomat Markham VineyardsEnjoy reserve and library wines by candlelight in an historic stone cellar$15pp, 11am-4pm, www.markhamvineyards.com, 707-963-5292
ONGOINGNapaValley Opera House1030 Main Street, Napa, 707-226-7372, www.nvoh.org Sept 7: Dr. John & The Neville Brothers Sept 12: Zydeco Dance with Jeffery Broussard &The Creole Cowboys Sept 18: HawaiianTropical Nights Sept 19: Chanticleer Sept 25: Lavay Smith CD Release Concert Oct 3: Gala 2009 featuring Pink Martini
ONGOINGLive at theLincolnTheaterYountville, 707-944-1300, www.lincolntheater.com
Sept 9: Glenn Miller Orchestra Sept 12: Buckwheat Zydeco Sept 18: Jay andThe Americans Oct 10:The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back RoomWinesNapa, 5-9pm, 707-226-1378, www.backroomwines.com
Sept 11: Is it $15? Or is it $50?Tasting Sept 18:Taste Wines from Austria Sept 25: Languedoc & RoussillonWine Tasting Oct 2: Taste California Red Blends Oct 9: Northeast ItalyWine Tasting
ONGOINGdi Rosa Preserve Art& NatureNapa, 707-226-5991, www.dirosapreserve.org Ongoing thru Sep 19: Mike Henderson Oct 17: Art: Its Alive, 8th Annual Benefit Art Auction
ONGOINGFriday Night Pulse TastingsAcme Fine Wines, St. Helena, 5-7pm, free, www.acmefinewines.com
ONGOINGBuon Amici Members & GuestsBenessere Vineyards, St. Helena,10am-4:30pm707-963-5853, www.benesserevineyards.com Members Only New Release Tastings Barrel Tastings by appointment Vertical Tastings by appointment Wine & Cheese Pairing by appointment
ONGOINGJefferson House Reserve Room Tastingat Monticello VineyardsNapa, Reserve Wine Seminar, Corley Family Napa Valley $25RSVP 707-253-2802 x18, www.CorleyFamilyNapaValley.com
ONGOING FRIDAYS-MONDAYSCooking Demonstrations at The DeBaun TheatreSt. Helena, Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, $12.50707-967-2320, [email protected], www.ciachef.edu
ONGOINGTour & Taste In HallWines GhostWinerySt. Helena, Four barrel samples & four current releases, $20
707-967-2620, www.hallwines.com
ONGOINGCabernet Flight Tasting at A Dozen VintnersSt. Helena,Taste & compare award-winning Cabernets, $5707-967-0666, www.adozenvintners.com
ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi Winery
For details, 888-RMONDAVI x2000, www.robertmondavi.com TheTo KalonTour &Tasting A GuidedTasting Pleasure i n t he Glass TheTaste ofWi ne TheHarvest of JoyTour & Lunch Celebrating CaliforniaWine & Food The Essence Tour & Tasting Artisan Cheese &Wine A Perfect Match
ONGOINGAnselAdams John Muir Trail ExhibitMumm Winery, Rutherford, 10am-5pm daily800-MUM-NAPA, www.mummnapa.com
ONGOINGProgressive Tasting at Sterling VineyardsCalistoga,Taste limited release wines at the winery800-726-6136, www.sterlingvineyards.com
ONGOINGReserve Tour & Tasting at Sterling VineyardsCalistoga, 11am, Private tasting in the Reserve Room after the tour, $45800-726-6136, www.sterlingvineyards.com
ONGOINGVIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory TourBourassa Vineyards, Napa, Mon-Fri by appointment, $15 mid-week specialMention this listing, 800-499-2366, www.bourassavineyards.com
ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD WinesRutherford, RSVP 800-487-7757, www.zdwines.com Traditional Tasting, $10, daily 10am-4pm PremierTasting, $15, daily 10am-4pm Private GroupTasting, $20, by appt Cellar Tour &Tasting, $25, 1pm weekends & holidays, M-F by appt VineyardView Tasting, $40, Sat-Sun 11am, M-F by appt Abacus Tasting, $600 for 4-6 people, by appt WineTrain, $180
ONGOINGTastings at the Popcorn Barat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena,10am-5pm, 707-967-8032, ww w.florasprings.com
Its all AboutYouTasting, $15 Everybodys TalkingTasting, $25
ONGOING THURSDAY - SATURDAYTemptastings in the Temptation Caveat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena,11am & 2pm, $25, $15/memberRSVP 707-967-8032, www.florasprings.com
ONGOINGTastings at Silverado VineyardsNapa, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770x611, www.silveradovineyards.com SaddleblockVineyardTasting, $75 Library Tasting, $75 Daily Tasting Room Flights, Estate/$10, Premier/$20 Public Tours &Tasting, 10:30am & 2:30pm, $15 PrivateTour and or Tasting, 15-25 guests, $20/tour, $25/tour & tasting
ONGOINGAppellation Tastingsat Elizabeth Spencer Tasting RoomRutherford, 10:45am & 4pm by appointment, $40707-963-6067, www.elizabethspencerwines.com
ONGOINGVineyard & Winery Toursat Raymond VineyardsSt. Helena, 11am (by appt), $15, Group tours available (by appt)800-525-2659x620, www.raymondvineyards.com
ONGOINGWine Tasting Experiencesat Benessere VineyardsSt. Helena,707-963-5853x105, www.benesserevineyards.com, by appt PersonalizedWine Flights, daily, $10 VineyardsWalking 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
ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti WineryNapa , 877-386-5070x222, www.andrettiwinery.com IndividualTastings, $12 PrivateWinery Tour &Tasting, $15/tour, $20/tour & tasting Vineyard Tour Blending Class Wine Sensory Seminar Food &Wine Pairing
ONGOINGWine Tasting OptionsBell Wine Cellars, Yountville, 10:30am-4pm, 707-944-1673, www.bellwin Current Release Tasting, $15
Reserve Tasting with cheese pairing, $25 Clonal Tasting with cheese pairing, $75 Blending Seminar, $75, 4-10 people Clone 6 LibraryTasting, $250 Sonnette Library Tasting, $75 Large GroupTastings, $20, 11+ people Grape to Glass Tour, $45, weekends, spring-fall
ONGOINGTasting at Grgich Hills EstateRutherford, 9:30am-4:30pm, Tours at 11am & 2pm, $10,Wine library tasting/$30, Barrel tasting on most Fridays 2-4pm707-963-2784, www.grgich.com
ONGOINGTastings & Tours at Artesa WineryNapa, RSVP, 877-224-8309, www.artesawinery.com Vino con Queso, Wine & Cheese Experience, $40 Daily GuidedTours Vines & Wines, A VineyardTour, $40
ONGOINGTours & Tasting at Black Stallion WineryNapa, 10am-5pm, 707-253-1400, www.blackstallionwinery.com Regular tasting, $10 Reserve tasting, $35, Sat-Sun Artisan cheese additional $7.50/person
ONGOINGEducational Tours & Wine Tastingat Castello di AmorosaCalistoga, 707-967-6272, RSVP, w ww.castellodiamorosa.com Regular tour & tasting, $25-$40 Reserve tour & tasting, $35-$50 Tasting only, $10-$25 Young adult tours, $15-$20 NapaValley Neighbor Program PrivateVIP tours
THIRDSATURDAY OF THE MONTHBacchus ThatRascalClos Pegase, Calistoga, free, 2pm, Multi-media presentation History of W707-942-4981, www.clospegase.com
LASTTUESDAY OF THE MONTHWinemaker Dinners at Fum BistroNapa, Local favorite wineries are spotlighted in a four- course dinner. $60RSVP 707-257-1999, w ww.fumebistro.com
EVERY SATURDAYZD Wines: Wine & Cheese SeminarRutherford, Includes visit to Wine Library & Cellar, 11am, $40800-487-7757 x107, 707-963-5188, www.zdwines.com
EVERY SUNDAYSensory Component Tasting at ZD WinesRutherford, 11am by appointment only, $20, 707-963-5188, www.zdwine
EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAYWine & Artisanal Cheese Pairings, Havens Wine CelNapa, 10am-4:30pm, 707-261-2000, www.havenswine.com
EVERY SATURDAYChocolate & Red Wine Saturdaysat Bennett Lane WineryCalistoga, 10am-5pm, www.bennettlane.com, 707-942-6684
ONGOINGFriday Night Winemaker EventsNapa, 5-7pm, JV Wine & Spirits, $2, 877-469-9463, www.jvwine.com
ONGOING SATURDAYSNapaRiverwalk withHistorian George Webber2 hour tour with tales & lore of old town Napa, 10am, $20, 707-251-8500
ONGOINGTHROUGH DECEMBER 31Classic Rock Photography ExhibitMarkhamVineyards, St. Helena, 707-963-5292, www.markhamvineyards
TUESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERWeekly Art ShowsClubhouse, River Pointe Resort, Napa, 5:30-8:30pm, 707-252-4200x152
ONGOINGTHROUGH OCTOBER 4Portals to the Past ExhibitionNapa Valley Museum,Yountville, Includes photo of Mike Grgichwww.grgich.com
NAPA VALLEY
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SEPTEMBER 12Cooking Class: The Art of SustainableCuisineCedar Gables Inn, Napa, Chef Ben Dubois, 4-8:30pm, $95707-224-7969, www.cedargablesinn.com
SEPTEMBER 12Sterling Silver Screen Series: Apollo 13SterlingVineyards, Calistoga, 7pm, 707-942-3322, www.sterlingvineyards.com
SEPTEMBER 12Merryvale VineyardsOakville Barrel Tasting
St. Helena, 1-4pm, Barrel samples, appetizers & live music, $25, free/members707-968-3429, www.merryvale.com
SEPTEMBER 1233rd Annual Napa Wine & Crafts FairFirstStreet,Downtown Napa,Handcrafted arts,holidaygifts, wine,food & music!Napa DowntownAss ociation, free, 707-257-0322, www.napadowntown.com
SEPTEMBER 12Music Festival for Mental HealthStaglin Family, Napa, 707-944-0477
SEPTEMBER 12-13Club Artesa Lobster Feed at Artesa WineryNapa, 11am-2pm, $75, limited to 100 peoplewww.artesawinery.com, 877-224-8309
SEPTEMBER 12-16American Harvest WorkshopCakebread Cellars, Rutherford, 707-545-3280
SEPTEMBER 12Annual Cellar Sale
at Louis M. Martini WinerySt. Helena, 12-4pm, 800-321-WINE, www.louismartini.com
SEPTEMBER 13September SoireSilverado Brewing Co, St. Helena, Champagne reception, dinner & silentauction. 5pm, $100 Benefits Community Resources for Children707-253-0376x101, www.crcnapa.org
SEPTEMBER 15Viva Mexico Celebrate Mexican Independence DayPioneer Park, Calistoga, 5-9:30pm, 707-942-6333
SEPTEMBER 17Club Vivant Evening Receptionat Mumm Napa
Rutherford, Flute of featured wine, light hors doeuvres & live music, 6-7pm, $10www.mummnapa.com, 800-MUM-NAPA, RSVP
SEPTEMBER 17BrixUnpaved: One Night in Bangkokat BrixRestaurantYountville, Aromas, tastes & sounds of the international street food scene6-9:30pm, 707-944-2749, www.brix.com
SEPTEMBER 18Johnnys Lobster Feed Atop The Roomat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena, 6-8pm, 707-967-6723, www.florasprings.com
SEPTEMBER 19
NapaValley Symphony League10th Annual Home & Garden Tour9:30am-4:30pm, $45, 707-255-3372, www.napavalleysymphony.org
SEPTEMBER 192nd Annual NapaValley Aloha FestivalManaleo Hawaiian Cultural Foundation, NapaValley Expo Fairgrounds, Na707-966-4017, www.manaleochf.org, free
SEPTEMBER 19Tasting on the Lawn at Charles Krug Win
St. Helena, 2-5pm, $30/adv, $35, www.charleskrug.com, 888-747-5784
SEPTEMBER 19Merryvale VineyardsHarvest Dinner CelebrationSt. Helena, 7pm, Join the winemaker in a dinner catered by TraVigne, $12RSVP 707-968-3429, www.merryvale.com
SEPTEMBER 1920th Anniversary Winemaker Dinneron the Napa Valley Wine TrainFeaturing ZD, Jericho Canyon, Judds Hill & SalvestrinNapa, $165/gourmet, $195/dome, www.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124
SEPTEMBER 19Harvest Celebration! Seasons of the ValleDinner at Merryvale VineyardsSt. Helena, Gourmet Seasonal cuisine byTra Vigne & live music by Swings7pm, $125, 800-326-6069x429, www.merryvale.com
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SEPTEMBER 19VIP Vineyard Lunch at Bennett Lane WineryCalistoga, 12pm, 877-MAX-NAPA, www.bennettlane.com
SEPTEMBER 1925th Annual Harvest Ball at V. SattuiSt. Helena, Fine food, wines, music & dancing! 6pm, $200/members, $225www.vsattui.com, 800-799-2337
SEPTEMBER 19-20, 26-27Napa Open StudiosArts Council Napa Valley,www.nvopenstudios.com
SEPTEMBER 24-2723rd Wine Country Film FestivalNapa Valley Expo, Napa River Inn, Cuvee Napa,International cinema fromaround the globe. www.winecountryfilmfest.com
SEPTEMBER 267th Annual Support Our Canine HeroesWine Gala & AuctionThe Historic Carriage House, Charles Krug Winery, St. Helena, 4:30-10pm800-295-4050x4045, RSVP, $350
SEPTEMBER 26St. Supry 20th Anniversary PartyRutherford, Proceeds go to Valley Oak High School, 3-5:30pm707-963-4507, www.stsupery.com
SEPTEMBER 262006 Private Reserve Cabernet SauvignonRelease CelebrationSt.Helena, Beringer Vineyards, 4:30-9pm, $195, RSVP 866-708-9463,
SEPTEMBER 26Raymond Vineyards Harvest CelebrationSt. Helena, 5-8pm, www.raymondvineyards.com
SEPTEMBER 269th Annual CruisinCalistogaBeer &Wine Festival& Car ShowNapa County Fairgrounds, Calistoga, 707-942-1473
SEPTEMBER 26Napa River Rock & StrollNapa, Napa River Trail from Kennedy Park to Veterans Memorial Park8:30am, $15-$30, 707-252-1123
SEPTEMBER 27Tastemaker Dinner at toile RestaurantDomaine Chandon, Yountville, 6:30pm, 707-944-2280, www.chandon.com
OCTOBER 14th Annual Pink Party
Domaine Chandon, Yountville,Proceeds benefit Breast Cancer Research atQueen of the Valley, 7-11pm, 707-944-2280, www.domainechandon.com
OCTOBER 2-4ZD Wines Celebrate 40th AnniversaryRutherford, 800-487-7757, ww w.zdwines.com Oct 2: 40th Anniversary Abacus XI Dinner Oct 3: 40th Anniversary Festival Oct 4: 40th AnniversaryReturn to the Pastat di RosaArt Alive
OCTOBER 31st Saturday StrollDowntown Calistoga, live music & wine tasting, 1-7pmwww.calistogavisitors.com
OCTOBER 3Annual Harvest Party& Grape StompPeju Province Winery, Rutherford,12-2pm: Grape Stomp, 6-11pm: Dinner &Dancing, $150, $130/members, 800-446-7358, www.peju.com
OCTOBER 3
Bennett Lane Harvest PartyCalistoga, 12-4pm, 877-MAX-NAPA, www.bennettlane.com
OCTOBER 3-4Eric Christensen at Galley 1870V Marketplace, Yountville, 1-5pm, www.gallery1870.com, 800-322-1870
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSWine & Food Sampling at Hop KilnRussian River Valley,Visit the historic tasting room to enjoy delicious wine &sample over 80 food items in their gourmet marketplace, 10am-5pm707-433-6491, www.hopkilnwinery.com
EVERY FIRST THURSDAY THROUGH OCTOBERDowntown Sebastopol Art WalkDowntown Sebastopol, 6-8pm, 707-874-9462,
ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshopat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/members707-931-7924x123, www.brcohn.com
ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tastingat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/members707-931-7924x123, www.brcohn.com
ONGOINGWells Fargo Center for the ArtsSanta Rosa, 707-546-3600, wellsfargocenterarts.org Sept 11: Marco Antonio Solis Sept 15: Mariachi Divas Sept 19: ACT Sweet Charity Sept 20:The Beach Boys Sept 25: SF Comedy Competition
Oct 1: Pink Martini Oct 2: Carlos Mencia Oct 3: Neil Bergs 101Years of Broadway Oct 6: Emmylou Harris
ONGOINGSpreckels Performing Arts CenterRohnert Park, 707-588-3400, www.spreckelsonline.com
Sept 12: ComedySportz Oct 4: Film Series, Casablanca Oct 10: Joni Morris sings Legendary Ladies in Country Music Oct 11: Film Series, It Happened One Night
ONGOING SUNDAYSDomaine Carneros Sparkling Brunchat the Fairmont Mission Inn & SpaSonoma, 9am-1pm, 707-938-9000, www.fairmont.com.sonoma
ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at AnabaEnjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with your wine tasting.
Sonoma, 4-5:30pm, 707-996-4188, www.anabawines.com
ONGOINGWinemaker TastingWine Spectrum, Santa Rosa, 6-8pm, $10707-525-8466, www.winespectrum.com
ONGOINGTerroir & History Tour at Chateau St. JeanKenwood, A visit to Chateau St. Jean lifts all of your senses.Complimentary, 11am-2pm, 707-833-4134, www.chateaustjean.com
ONGOING
Escape to Wine Country Concert SeriesLandmarkVineyards, Kenwood, Bocce ball, wine, picnic & horse -drawn wagon Sept 19: Folk Artist, AdamTraum Sept 26: Jazz Keyboardist, John Simon Oct 3: French Cabaret Artist, Michel Saga Oct 10: Saxophonist, Ylanda Nickell
ONGOINGCooking in the Vineyard Classes &Seminars at Rodney Strong VineyardsHealdsburg, 707-544-3059, www.rodneystrong.com
ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-JacksonFulton, Special reserve food & wine tasting, 10am-4pm, $25707-571-7500, www.kj.com
ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 11Saddles Restaurant at MacArthur Place Hotel & SpaSonoma, An outdoor Garden Party BBQ on the Veranda Garden, 4:30-7:30pmLive Music, Grilled Appetizers, Drink Specials. www.macarthurplace.com
ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25Downtown Friday NightsShops open on the Sonoma square until 8pm, www.sonomavalley.com
ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYMichel-Schlumberger Winery Green TourHealdsburg, 10:30am, $25, 800-447-3060, www.michelschlumberger.com
ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape GondolaGeyserville, 11:30am, $10, box lunch provided for $20707-431-4811, www.ryew.com
ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSComeCrush With Usat Icaria Creek WineryWinemaker Jeff Smith leads a tasting of bottled & barreled winesRSVP 707-486-9623, w ww.icariawinery.com
EVERY THURSDAYThirsty ThursdaysEnjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with your wine tasting.Anaba Tasting Room, Sonoma, Thursdays 4-5:30pm707-996-4188, www.anabawines.com
ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz WinerCloverdale, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 tasting fee covers the pairing707-894-3389, www.fritzwinery.com
THIRDTHURSDAY OF THE MONTHTwilight Tours & TapasAudellsa Estate Winery, Glen Ellen, $35, 5:30pm707-933-8514, www.audellsa.com
EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAYSantaRosa Original Farmers MarketSanta Rosa Veterans Building parking lot, 707-522-8629, 8:30am-noon
EVERYFRIDAY MORNINGSonoma Valley FarmersMarketDepot Park, Sonoma, 9am-noon, 707-538-7023
ONGOING FRIDAYS-MONDAYSHanna Winery Reserve Tasting GalleryAlexander Valley,Taste limited-production reserve Bismark Mountain winpaired with local artisanal cheese selections from The Cheese Shop inHealdsburg, $10pp, 707-431-4310, ww w.hannawinery.com
EVERY FRIDAYComplimentary Wine Tastingat Flamingo HotelSanta Rosa, in the Terrace Grille featuring Sonoma County wines, 5:30-7p707-545-8530, 800-848-8300, www.flamingoresort.com
ONGOINGWine Experiences at Chateau St. JeanKenwood,Ten person minimum, 2 hours, $50, by appointment707-833-4134x5258, www.chateaustjean.com Cinq Cpages Blending Seminar, Eight person minimum, 2 hours, $75 Cinq Cpages ComponentTasting, Eight person minimum, 1.5 hours, $2 PrivateVIP WineTasting, 10:30am, 1 & 3pm, $25, 1 hour Box Lunch Prgram withTour
ONGOINGTours, Tastings & Seminarsat St. Francis WinerySanta Rosa, Ten person minimum, Call for more information & reservation888-675-WINE(9463)x255, www.stfranciswinery.com WineryTour &Tasting, 1.5 hours, $25 Vineyards Tour &Tasting, 1 hou Blending Seminar, 1.5 hour, $65
ONGOINGGuided Winery Tours at Gloria FerrerSonoma, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $10, 707-996-7256, www.gloriaferrer.com
ONGOINGTastings at the Vine & BarrelPetaluma, 3-5pm, 707-765-1112 www.vineandbarrel.com Oct 3: Syrah & Rhone VarietalTasting
ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 30Summer Jazz Series at the Ledson HotelSonoma, 6-10pm, 707-996-9779, w ww.ledsonhotel.com
ONGOINGLive From theMiddle ReachSummer Music SeriesC. Donatiello Winery, Healdsburg, 1-4pm, tasting 11am-5pm, free707-431-4442, www.cdonatiello.com Sept 13: Byson Van Cleve Troubaduo Sept 20:The Hellhounds Sept 27: Dani Paige Band
FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERMusic in the CourtyardMichel-Schlumberger, Healdsburg, 5:30-8:30pm, $5
707-433-7427, www.michelschlumberger.comONGOING SATURDAYS
Pizza Caf at the Simi WineryHealdsburg, 11am-4pm, 707-473-3236 www.simiwinery.com
EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAYThe Art of Winemaking WorkshopPetroniVineyards, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm707-9358-8311, www.petronivineyards.com
ONGOING TUESDAYSTuesdays in the Plaza Concerts & Farmers MarketHealdsburg Plaza, Healdsburg, Market: 4-6:30pm707-431-1956, www.healdsburgfarmersmarket.org
ONGOINGTHROUGH SEPTEMBER 21Thirteen Photographers ExhibitPlaza Arts Center, Healdsburg, 11am-5pm707-431-1970, www.PlazaArtsCenter.org
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WEDNESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 7Ravenswood After HoursRavenswoodWinery, Sonoma, 5:30-7pm, $20707-933-2332, www.ravenswood-wine.com
ONGOINGTHROUGH OCTOBER 31TuesdayNight Farmers MarketSonomaPlaza, Sonoma, 5:30-8:30pm,707-538-7023
LASTTHURSDAY OF THE MONTH50 Mile AV Vintner's DiningGlenEllen, Barreltasting& OldVine PinotNoir & Syrahsfrom AshtonVineyard.Foods sourced locally. 4-7PM, RSVP. 707-935-3456, ashtonwines.com
ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERCelebrate Lateat Sebastiani Vineyards & WinerySonoma, 7-9pm, 707-933-3204, www.sebastiani.com
SEPTEMBER 10, 24, OCTOBER 8, 22Wine Tasting FUNdamentalsGloria Ferrer Winery, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm, $25707-996-7356 , www.gloriaferrer.com
SEPTEMBER 10Garden Tour with Seasonal LunchMcEvoy Ranch, Petaluma, 10am-12pm, $85707-778-2307, www.mcevoyranch.com
SEPTEMBER 11-12Cloverdale Classic Car Show & Street CelebrationPlaza, Cloverdale, 707-894-4470
SEPTEMBER 11-13Harvest Wine Country Weekendat Ferrari-Carano Winery
Healdsburg, 707-433-6700, www.fcwinery.com
SEPTEMBER 11, 25Finally Friday at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com
SEPTEMBER 12Harvest BBQ at Alderbrook Winery
Healdsburg, 11am-3pm, $65/members, $75800-405-5987x2, RSVP, www.alderbrook.com
SEPTEMBER 12Artist Reception for San Francisco artist Karen FourgoArrowoodVineyards, Glen Ellen, 12-3pm707-935-2600, www.arrowoodwinery.com
SEPTEMBER 12Mexican Independence DayRobledo Family Winery, Sonoma, 12-3pm, 707-939-6903
SEPTEMBER 1214th Annual Sebastopol Cajun/Zydeco FestivalIves Park, Sebastopol, 10:30am-7pm, 707-829-2667
SEPTEMBER 12Beer in the PlazaPlaza Park, Healdsburg, 3-7pm, $20, 707-433-8093, www.sihealdsburg.org
SEPTEMBER 12Petaluma River FestPetaluma River Turning Basin, 11am-3pm, 707-769-0429
SEPTEMBER 12Release Party at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com
SEPTEMBER 12Harvest BBQ at Alderbrook WineryHealdsburg 10am-2pm, 800-405-5987x2, www.alderbrook.com
SEPTEMBER 12
Orchard TourMcEvoy Ranch, Petaluma, 10am-12pm, $30707-778-2307, www.mcevoyranch.com
SEPTEMBER 12Heirloom Tomato Festivalat Kendall-Jackson WinerySanta Rosa, Live music, food, wine & more. 11am-4pm, $75800-769-3649, www.kj.com
SEPTEMBER 12Harvest Winery Dinner at St Francis WineSanta Rosa, 7pm, $130, $104/members888-675-WINEx255, www.stfranciswinery.com
SEPTEMBER 12-13Katmandu Fall FestivalDepot Park, Sonoma, 11am-5pm, $10/donation707-838-1807, www.katmandufallfestival.org
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by Charles Neave
As Steve Ledson, a fifth-generation
Sonoma wine grower said, As someone
whose great-great-grandfather first grew
grapes and made wine here in 1862, I am
deeply committed to our familys tradition of
crafting world class wines from Californias
finest vineyard sites.
So it is no wonder that the motto for his
eponymous winery in the Sonoma Valley is:
Impeccable Hospitality, Exquisite Atmos-
phere, Extraordinary Wines. But Ledson
Winery & Vineyards is all of that and so
much more, as you soon find out if you ask
directions to the Castle. Locals will point youtowards Sonoma Highway and, if you are in
Sonoma itself, send you north through the
Valley of the Moon. Then they will most likely
say, And you cant miss it. Its on the right.
Ledson Winery is nothing if it is not
striking, imposing, more than a little bit
grand, and it sits in the middle of some of the
best vineyard property in the county. And
still, everything you have just read may actu-
ally be an understatement.
Always owned and run by the Ledson
family, work began on the winery two
decades ago. Originally it was to be a family
home; a very grand and very large (16,000
square feet) family home. Time passed and
slate roofs, balconies, fountains and the
turrets that help define the property began to
appear and the Ledsons finally came to the
realization that it was time to sit back for a
moment or two and rethink their original
plan.
One thing that brought about the change
was the fact that the Merlot being harvested
from the 17 acre estate vineyard (and at the
time was being sold to nearby wineries) was
truly exceptional. In fact it was St. Francis
winemaker Tom Mackey who, knowing the
vineyard well because St. Francis was one of
the wineries buying the grapes, and knowing
that Steve wanted to make ultra premium
wine, urged him to produce his own estate
wine. Plans were changed and what was once
going to be a home became a winery and
tasting room and a spot for special events,
including receptions, retreats, dinners, and
weddings.
It was in 1997 that Ledson released th
first wine under their own name, the 19
Ledson Estate Merlot. About 24 months la
the winery and tasting room opened its do
to the public.
Today, the property is referred to by alm
everyone as the castle, which is not inac
rate. The grand French Normandy struct
was designed by Steve Ledson and featu
coffered ceilings, marble fireplaces, sweep
staircases, cathedral-style windows,
tasting bars and suites, hand-selected w
sconces, and luxurious bridal suites. Th
are also over five miles of ornate wood inl
and mosaics. Then there are the acres
gardens. There is also a gourmet marketpl
at the winery so you can pick up a snack
the makings for a picnic on the beaut
grounds beneath century-old oak tr
surrounded by newly established vines.
The roster of wines bearing the Led
imprint now includes small, hand-crafted
made from varietals that include the cla
Bordeaux grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Fra
20 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co
WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
LEDSONWINERY & VINEYARDS
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR
Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvi-
gnon. Plus Chardonnay, Pinot
Noir, Sangiovese, Syrah,
Zinfandel, Mourvedre, Barbera,
Primitivo, Grenache, Sauvignon
Blanc, a Ros and a delightful
Johannesburg Riesling. And then
a rich Madera Port. It comes to
more than seventy wines in all.
Together they have been awarded
more than a hundred gold
medals or 90+ points and won 16
Best of Class, as well as two
Sweepstakes awards.
In addition to the daily tasting
of Ledson wines, there are also a
number of special events held at
the winery throughout the year.
On Saturday, September 26, itwill be Corvettes at the Castle
where vintage Corvettes will be
on display. The following day it is
Porsches at the Palace, the
winerys tenth annual Porsche
aficionado event with an array of
some of the German automakers
finest examples. Both events are
from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
As Steve has said, Having a
family winery means more thanbuilding a winery for my family;
it also means building a family for
his winery. And between friends,
employees and Wine Club
members, he has done just that.
If you want to sample some of
these wines, head to Ledson
Winery & Vineyards. Theyre
about 15 minutes from the
historic town of Sonoma, at 7335
Sonoma Highway (Highway 12).Theyre open daily from 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. and offer a variety of
tasting options. For more infor-
mation, directions, information
on upcoming special events at
the winery, or to inquire about a
true fairytale wedding or arrange
a private tasting, look on
www.ledson.com or call them at
(707) 537-3810.
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
22
28th annual event celebrates viticulture with some of the top American
winemakers in unmatched setting of Yosemite National ParkThe Ahwahnee, a full-service, AAA Four-Diamond hotel located inscenic Yosemite Valley, announced lineup for the 28th annual Vintners
Holidays event series. Celebrating excellence in winemaking in an
unmatched and beautiful natural setting in Yosemite National Park,
Vintners Holidays brings together 32 prominent California wineries
over a series of eight sessions from November 1 to December 3. Partic-
ipants are invited to meet, learn from and dine with different wine-
makers, winery owners and growers in each session, moderated by
some of the most respected wine authorities in the country.
Since its inception as a small gathering of winemakers and hotel
guests in the winter of 1982, Vintners Holidays has become a premier
and much-sought-after destination for wine aficionados and wine-makers alike. Esteemed California winemakers making repeat appear-
ances this year include Iron Horse Vineyards, Joseph Phelps,
Rombauer Vineyards, Saintsbury, Mumm Napa, J Vineyards, Silver
Oak Cellars and Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery. The
newcomer spots are occupied this year by Alma Rosa Winery & Vine-
yards, Huge Bear Wines, Ceja Vineyards, Topel Winery and Halleck
Vineyard.
Vintners Holidays is always a grand start to the holiday season at
The Ahwahnee, said Chance Jorgensen, general manager of The
Ahwahnee. Combined with the 82nd Bracebridge Dinner this
December and Chefs Holidays in January 2010, which celebrates 25
years this season, I know of no other hotel that offers such a long-
standing tradition of culinary experiences in the country. We delight
in offering our guests an exceptional forum to get to know some of the
best minds in food and wine, and to enjoy the product of this
immense talent, in one of the most breathtaking winter settings imag-
inable.
Each session of Vintners Holidays, guests are invited to take part in
a Meet the Winemakers reception, participate in educational tasting
seminars and enjoy a world-class, five-course gourmet dinner paired
with that sessions wines from Executive Chef Percy Whatley, served by
candlelight in The Ahwahnee Dining Room.
The sessions are hosted and moderated by a leading expert in wine.
This year Vinters Holidays welcomes back Evan Goldstein, M.S., pres-
ident of Full Circle Wine Solutions, Inc.; Michael Stepanovich, wine
journalist and judge, Gilles de Chambure, M.S., director of wine
education at Meadowood, Dan Berger, syndicated wine jounalist and
judge; and Peter Marks, M.W. and vice president of education, Icon
Estates.
I look forward to Vintners Holidays every year, said Goldstein, a
longtime session moderator and Vintners Holidays participant for
more than 20 years. Not only do you have the best and the brightest
from the California wine world in one room, but the events offer an
inside look and exclusive tasting opportunity to all guests, thereby
deepening their appreciation of wine and winemaking. It is truly a
pleasure and a privilege to participate.
Vintners Holidays offers everyone from the novice to the conn
seur an opportunity to participate in a part of viticulture, sharing
wineries latest vintages and oftentimes rare and limited-rele
samples exclusively with guests. Each year brings a collection of n
and returning vintners, some of whom have participated for m
than 20 years.
This exclusive event sells out early and fast every year. Special t
and three-night packages for Vintners Holidays are available at
Ahwahnee and Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, which includes lodg
two tickets to the Gala Vintners Dinner and admission to the Mthe Winemakers reception. The following rates are based on dou
occupancy, subject to change, and do not include room taxes. I
vidual tickets for the Gala Dinner may be purchased for $199
person, excluding gratuity.
THE AHWAHNEE
Two-night packages from $996 Three-night packages from $1,295
YOSEMITE LODGE AT THE FALLS
Two-night packages from $596 Three-night packages from $695
For more information on Yosemite Vintners' Holidays at
Ahwahnee or to make reservations, call 801-559-4949 or visit on
at www.YosemitePark.com/Vintners.
Ahwahnee Announces 2009 Season Vintners HolidayLineup with 32 World-Class California Wineries
The 2009 schedule is as follows:
SessionI: November 1-3, 2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)Moderator: Evan Goldstein, M.S. and president, Full CircleWine Solutions, Inc.Rob McNeil, Mumm Napa Estates;Tom Rinaldi, ProvenanceVineyardsGeorge Bursick, JVineyards & Winery; Ed Sbragia, Sbragia FamilyVineyards
Session II: November 4-5, 2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)
Moderator: Michael Stepanovich, wine journalist & judgeKristin Belair, Honig Vineyard &Winery; Tom Hinde, FlowersVineyard &WineryK.R. Rombauer, III, Rombauer Vineyards; Cathy Corison, CorisonWinery
Session III: November 8-10,2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)
Moderator: Gilles de Chambure, M.S.; director of wine education, MeadowoodBuck Cobb, KarlyWinery; David Duncan, Silver Oak CellarsRichard Sanford, Alma RosaWinery & Vineyards; Daniel Baron,Twomey Cellars
Session IV: November 11-12, 2009 ( Wednesday-Thursday)
Moderator: Gilles de Chambure, M.S., director of wine education, MeadowoodMark Lingenfelder, Chalk Hill EstateVineyards & Winery; David Graves, SaintsburyRick Hutchinson, AmphoraWinery; Bill Phelps, Joseph PhelpsVineyards
Session V: November 15-17,2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)Moderator: Dan Berger, syndicated wine journalist & judgeEileen Crane, Domaine Carneros; Kent Rosenblum, Rosenblum CellarsRoss Halleck, Halleck Vineyard; Tim Carl, Huge Bear Wines
SessionVI: November18-19, 2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)Moderator: Dan Berger, syndicated wine journalist & judgeStuart Smith, Smith-Madrone; Joy Sterling, Iron HorseVineyardsDan Lee, MorganWinery; Rich Frank, Frank Family Vineyards
SessionVII: November29-December1, 2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)
Moderator: Peter Marks, M.W. and Vice President of Education, Icon Estates; Steve Reeder, Simi WineryFrederick Schrader and Andy Beckstoffer, Schrader Cellars & Beckstoffer VineyardsAmelia Moran Ceja, Ceja Vineyards; Dan Goldfield, Dutton-Goldfield Winery
Session VIII:December 2-3,2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)
Moderator: Peter Marks, M.W. and Vice President of Education, Icon EstatesScott Kelly, Estancia Estates; Randall Grahm, Bonny DoonVineyardsMark & Donnis Topel,Topel Winery; Joel Peterson, Ravenswood Winery
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Its a contemporary rendering of an American wine bar, says Nat
Komes, General Manager of Flora Springs. Nat is talking about The
Room, the Flora Springs tasting room which just celebrated a one-
year anniversary of its stunning metamorphosis. The Room is not
just a place, he adds, but a unique wine, food and lifestyle experi-
ence fueled by a thirty-year legacy of family winemaking and our tire-
less quest as innovators.
Weve created an environment where loyal friends and newcomers
alike can learn about Flora Springs in a group or in private, at the bar,
in the tasting caves or even on top of The Room overlooking the hills
and vineyards. Cool yes?
Yes - cool. And the key to the friendly, contagious energy of The
Room is a handful of people who each bring their individ
approach to the Flora Springs experience with them to work ev
day.One of the most familiar faces at The Room is that of Natalie Pet
who came on part-time at the former Flora Springs tasting ro
while studying at UC Davis. I love working here, she says emph
24 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co
Your Keys to The Room at Flora Spring
The Room Keys: Brittany Payton, left; Tom Shoar and Natalie Petek, above.
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ically. The Room has a great vibe, the wine is awesome and the wine
club members are such fun and generous people, she adds. Ive scored
great recipes from them and even had a few offers of places to live closer
to the city for grad school. Now a Davis graduate, Natalie has entered
a PhD program in molecular biology at UCSF , and plans to remain at
Flora Springs during her studies. Being around the energy of the Flora
Springs family is a good antidote to being the reclusive lab rat in my
other life, says the future Dr. Petek. Besides, I enjoy sharing a glass of
my favorite wines Soliloquy and Out of Sight with our guests.
Brittany Payton is the newest addition to the key ring at The Room.Brittany, a rabid doer and world traveler with a degree in Art History
from University of Nevada at Reno, unabashedly confesses to it taking
all her strength not to, bust through the velvet ropes and run free to
explore the hidden libraries at the Vatican. As The Rooms Marketing &
Events Manager, Brittany loves the uniqueness of the space and its
energy.
The other key on the ring is Tom Shoar, who settled in Napa to retire
from over 30 years as a dentist in Southern California. He and wife,
Bente (an unofficial Flora Springs ambassador), have always been avid
California wine explorers. So, Tom admits, when I tired of the
honey-do list and was missing daily interaction with new people, itmade sense for me to come to work at Flora Springs. Tom enjoys the
close-knit team at The Room. And, as for the wines, he says, They just
sell themselves, really the quality in the bottle speaks for itself.
A scientist, an art historian and a dentist your keys to The Room
and a new and exciting Napa Valley wine experience from Flora Springs.
Visit The Room at 677 South St. Helena Highway in St. Helena. For
more information, call (707) 967-8032, 1-866-967-8032 or send an
email to [email protected]. Visit the website at
www.florasprings.com. Flora Springs is also on Facebook, Twitter and
Yelp! And, you can catch Flora Fever at florasprings.com/blog.
PIZZACAFESaturdays11am-4pm
Mark your calendar!UPCOMING EVENTS AT FLORA SPRINGS
September 18 & October 16
Johnnys Lobster Throw Atop The Room
September 25 & October 30
Summer Lunch Series at the Flora Springs Estate
September 27
Great Tastes Pick-up Party at The Room
October 10
Harvest Lua'u & Ukulele Festival
at the Flora Springs Estate
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by Diana Greenwood
Two summers ago William Hill Estate
welcomed Ralf Holdenried to 140 acres ofrocky, volcanic soil on rolling hills in theregion known as the Silverado Bench. Ralf
knew all about the world-class wines
produced from this little slice of heaven onAtlas Peak Road since 1978 and the opportu-
nity to work with the grapes grown here wasone he couldnt refuse.
Everything Ive done up to this point
prepared me for this winemaking role, Ralfsaid. The winery and vineyards are just the
right size for making fine wine. I can check on
fermentation in one of our steel tanks, then
walk through one door and Im in the barrelcellar. My vineyards are literally right outsidethe door of my office. William Hill Estate was
clearly designed by winemakers for wine-
makers.Ralf has been walking out the door into
vineyards since he took his first steps. Born
and raised in Germany, farming was part ofRalfs daily family life. Ralfs fatherowned vine-
yards and he shared his passion for wine-making with his son, Ralf trailing his fathers
footsteps from childhood through the
teenaged years. Growing up in my parentsoperation in Germany was different from what
Im doing today but I gained a great perspec-
tive and appreciation for farming, said Ralf.Even though I had no technical background
at that point, working the vineyards was part
of my chores. I cleaned out tanks, rackedwine, helped with fermentation and put in
long, busy days during harvest. This was very
natural for me growing up.Ralf didnt think he would become a w
maker until he did an internship at a sm
boutique winery. Going through crush thseeing the dynamics in the cellar, work
with the grapes and the land, melding eqment and technology to create something
people enjoy solidified his decision to pu
wine as a career. No wonder then, Ralf won to study enology and viticulture at
University of Geisenheim. After landingCalifornia he continued his education at
Davis and in 1997, worked his first harve
Franciscan Winery in Napa Valley. Shothereafter he joined Ernest & Julio G
Winerys Sonoma County winemaking tea
After returning to Davis to earn a MBA,joined Louis M. Martini Winery as the w
making director of small lot wines, embrathe Gallo familys commitment to elevate
status and quality of its wines since
purchase of the historically significant MaWinery in 2002. When the Gallo fam
bought William Hill Estate in 2007, it wnatural next step for Ralf to use his knowle
and background to produce the rich, int
Winemaker Profile:WilliamHill Estate
RALF HOLDENRIED
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Napa Valley wines for which William Hill isknown. With a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon
and Chardonnay, it seems Ralf is in the right
place. There are so many interesting nuances
about winemaking farming, irrigation, thefact that a small cluster of grapes is so far from
the finished wine, said Ralf. The artisanshipthat exists in winemaking keeps it very
engaging and of course, the science plays amajor role. In the end, all the elements come
together and that is fascinating to me still.
One wine that fascinates Ralf is the 2006Estate Meritage, just released in May. Its the
first time in the 30 year history of the winery
that a Meritage wine has been produced andits a small volume bottling exclusively for
William Hills wine club and tasting room.Ralfsays the philosophy of this wine is to create a
blended masterpiece using all five traditional
Bordeaux varieties that grow on the Estate.The result is a unique, site-specific wine rich
in fruit, deep in structure and soft and silky onthe finish, showcasing the potential of the
vineyards to the fullest. Ralf selected the best
lots of each of the varieties then incorporatedeach into the final blend which consists of
75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot,
7% Malbec, 5% Merlot and 3% Cabernet
Franc, aged in French oak barrels for 18months.
In the future, as the characteristics of thevintage change each component, the blend
composition will also change, said Ralf.Constant, however, will be the vision to make
a balanced and expressive blend that show-
cases the terroir from the Silverado Bench atWilliam Hill Estate. We have just scratched
the surface of the potential wine quality here.
I believe in the coming years that the winesfrom William Hill will establish themselves as
some of the finest and most sought-afterblends in Napa. That is my goal.
If hes not walking the vineyards, making
wine, talking about wine or tasting wine, Ralfcan be found on the soccer field.He was in the
Pro-League in Germany as a young man andno doubt has passed that passion on to his
two sons, Julian and Jonas. Someday, they,
too, may trail their father in the vineyardWilliam Hill Estate.
William Hill is easy to find at 1761 A
Peak Road, a skip past Silverado Coun
Club where Napa turns quiet countrysThe winery perches atop a rolling knoll o
looking the orderly acres of Block 9, the lCabernet Sauvignon vines that Ralf sees w
he steps out his office door. Youll enjoyview, too, while relaxing in a comforta
Adirondack chair, sipping wine under
winerys charming picnic arbor. Tastingtours are by appointment from 10 a.m. t
p.m. so call (707) 265-3024 to set one up
appointments are simple to get and expewarm welcome when you arrive. Its easy
understand why Ralf Holdenried fits in so where; the staff is friendly and knowledgea
and its a beautiful place where summ
breezes slip in gently, water trickles incourtyard fountain and the scent of laven
lingers in the air. Ralf will tell you that althat matters to the grapes and when you t
his wines, youll know hes right.
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by Abigail P. Zimmerman
Take part in one of Sonoma Valleys most
beloved annual traditions! St. Francis Winerys
annual Blessing of the Animals will take place
Sunday, September 27 from 3 to 5 p.m.
Bring your favorite furry friend to parade
and be blessed by Sonomas own Father Leslie
from Star of the Valley Church. Or, simply
come for the world-class wines, delicious
nibbles and wiggly fur-ball entertainment.
Either way, the Blessing promises to be great
fun!
Dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, chickens,
horses, donkeys, rabbits, rats and even llamas
are invited to enjoy an afternoon of royal
treatment. Father Leslie and St. Francis
Winery welcome all animals and their
owners. No pet is too big or too small, but allshould be on their best, preening behavior as
they cue up for Father Leslies blessings on the
back terrace. Please remember a leash for all
of your friends!
After the Blessing, St. Francis staff will kick
off the Winery Dog and Cat parade and
contest. Costumes optional. The winners will
be posted on the St. Francis Winery webpage
and glorified to all winery fans and friends on
Facebook. What a great honor for your pet!
Fun and games will not just be limited to
your furry creatures. Adults will be able to
enjoy red and white wines by the glass and adelicious assortment of people-sized snacks.
Canine and feline nibbles will be served sepa-
rately but with no less fanfare.
With wine in hand, adult guests
can browse an array of pet-friendly vendors
and services. Shop for pet-sitters, accessories,
groomers, vets and day care. Enjoy a photo
op or custom created caricature of your pet.
Kids wont want to miss an opportunity to
visit with our camel friends, Humpfree and
Kazy. The Sonoma Humane Society will
be bringing adoptable, loving dogs and ca
their tail-waggin!
All festivities will be set on St. Fran
Winerys lawn, overlooking lavender fi
gardens and their famed Wild Oak es
vineyards. If you havent visited this stunn
mission-style winery, you are missing o
This years Blessing of the Animals prom
to be a great opportunity for wine lov
locals and pet owners!
St. Francis Winery is located at the hea
Sonoma Valley, where they have b
producing bold, full-bodied wines si
1979. Carefully crafted from 100% ha
picked Sonoma County fruit, St. Fra
wines epitomize the very essence of Sono
County terroir. The winery was christene
namesake for St. Francis of Assisi in recotion of the Saints role as protector of
natural world and in acknowledgement of
Franciscan Orders role in bringing Europ
grape cultivation to the New World.
What better place to show off your favo
animals and enjoy world-class wine tha
the 2009 Blessing of the Animals at St. Fra
Winery!
Proceeds from this event will benefit
Sonoma Humane Society.
ST. FRANCIS WINERYBlessing of the Animals
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So, you cook dinner for yourself and you pick out a nice bottle ofwine, open it and pour yourself couple of glasses paired nicely withyour meal. And youre left with about half a bottle of wine. What doyou do with the leftover wine?
Ill assume the cork pulled from the bottle has not been damaged,or punctured through its full length. If it was, then you first need tofind a suitable closure, say, an old cork saved from another bottle thatis in pretty good shape. Also good are rubber wine bottle closures soldin many wine shops and tasting rooms. You simply need a closure thatseals the bottle opening well maybe not perfectly, but good enoughfor the short term. Of course, if the bottle has a twist cap closure, this
is not an issue, as long as you havent already thrown away the cap!Now, if you plan to pour from this bottle the very next day, you can
simply seal it and leave it on your kitchen counter, under one condi-tion: the room temperature of your kitchen does not get above normalroom temperature (72 degrees) in the course of the next 24 hours. (Ifit does, put the bottle in the refrigerator.) So find a cool spot for it andfeel confident the next night that the wine will taste as good as it didthe first night. And dont be surprised if, on the second pouring, thewines flavors seem a bit more interesting than it did the first night.Some wines noticeably improve with just enough exposure to air.
But lets say you arent sure about when you will re-pour from thisbottle. Maybe the next night, but most likely it wont be for a few days.
Then you should refrigerate the bottle after re-closing it. Refrigerawill slow the aging process down enough for you to enjoy the bagain in several days. Dont expect it to improve, however, as the boleft on the kitchen counter overnight. It should stay as fresh as itthe first night for 2-3 days. More than this and it will begin a gradecline through the process of oxidation. Remember, the closureuse to re-seal the bottle is not perfect. Some microscopic amountair will creep inside the bottle over time.
Now for the gadgets. There are several tools on the market desigto keep unfinished wine fresh overnight. One pumps the air frombottle through a slit on the top of a custom rubber closure. T
product works just fine, and will extend the life of the wine lonthan if nothing else was done, except to re-seal the bottle. So youadd at least an extra day, maybe two, to the shelf life of the unfinisbottle, again, assuming the room temperature does not exceed 72
Another gadget is a gas canister filled with a harmless and odogas. A tubular spout can be placed through the neck of the bottyou shoot a few hits of gas into the bottle. The gas pushes outoxygen and replaces it, acting as a preservative. You would quicklythe bottle with a suitable closure. I have found this process to wvery well and use it regularly. As an added safety margin, I will reerate the wine also. Bottles will remain fresh for 4-5 days, or more
Len Napolitano lives in Sonoma County and is certified in wine by the Society of Wine Educators,
Wine & Spirits Education Trust and Chicago Wine School and continually gains knowledge from his frequent
contact with California winemakers. More information is on his website, www.wineology.com.
Send your questions about wine to: [email protected] or by mail to Len Napolitano in care of
Wine Country This Week magazine. Wineology is a registered trademark of Len Napolitano.
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
How should I store unfinished wine overnight?
by Len Napolitano
Wineology
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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
FLAMINGO RESORT & SPA
170roomsand suites on10 acres,gardensettingwith heatedpool, nightclubwithentertain-
ment,Terrace Grillrestaurant, fitnesscenterand tennis courts2777 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa 1-800-848-8300
VINTNERSINNForty-four spacious rooms and suites with balconies or patios;
surrounded by vineyards. 1-800-421-25844350 B arnes R oad, S anta R osa www.vintnersinn.com
LEDSON HOTEL
Luxury hotelsituatedon historicSonoma Plaza.Six individuallydecorated rooms
withking-size bed,whirlpoolbaths, fireplaceand balconies.
Appointedwith antique grandeur pairedwith modernamenities. (707) 996-9779
480 First S treet E ast, S onoma www.ledsonhotel.com
KENWOOD INNAND SPAA premier SonomaCountydestinationfor discerning visitors seekinggracioustreat-
ment,lush surroundings, soothing poolsand elegant accommodations all in a Tuscan
Setting. (707) 833-129310400 SonomaHighway, Kenwood www.kenwoodinn.com
INNATTHE TIDES
Bay views, walking distance to shopping, restaurants; swimming pool, hot tub,
fitness center, sauna; rooms with views and fireplaces; massage available;
continental breakfast 1-800-541-7788
800 H ig hway On e, Bo deg a B ay w ww.In na tt heTide s.com
ROBINS NEST GUEST HOUSE (209) 334-3665 W. Turner Road, Lodi www.robinsnestlodi.
WINEAND ROSES HOTEL AND RESTAURANT2505 W. Turner Road (209) 334-6
AMOROSAINN AND GARDENS8400 E. Harney Lane (209) 367-0
THE INN AT LOCKHOUSE19960 Elliot Road, Lockeford (209) 727-5
LAMP LIGHTER INNTucked into anancient groveof treesand just stepsto thefamousCarmelBeach,youwill disccharming innwithtwocottagesand four guestroomsinnand SunsetHouse Suites.Thesebed
breakfastboutiquehotels havebeen servingthe traveling publicsince1935.(831) 624-6046 www.carmellamplighter.
VAGABONDS INN
Vagabond's House Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in the midst of Carmel's
finest restaurants, unique shops and well-known art galleries and blocks awfrom Clint Eastwood's Hog's Breath Inn.
(831) 624-7738 www.vagabondshouse
CASA DE CARMELAND MONTEVERDEINNS
Nestledin theheart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.Just steps fromOceanAvenuewith itsmany shops,
galleriesand restaurants,the Innis onlyfive blocks fromthemiraclemileof Carmels whitesan
beach. Style, comfort,location theseinnshave itall.
Monte Verde & Ocean Ave., Carmel
831 624-6046, www.carmelmonteverdeinn.com
LONE OAK LODGE
VotedMontereyPeninsulaTravel Planner BestValue.Withinminutesto aquarium,wineries,
MontereyHarbor, shopping,taverns, restaurants,etc. Rooms availablewith kitchenettes.
1-800-283-5663 www.loneoaklodge.
LODI/WOODBRIDGE
SONOMA COUNTY COAST
MONTEREY BAY/CENTRAL COAST
SONOMA COUNTY SONOMA
SONOMA COUNTY SANTA ROSA
CANDLELIGHT INN
Private baths;TV/phone and AC; two-person
marble jacuzzis and fireplaces; balconies or
decks; three-course gourmet breakfast, horsdoeuvres, wine and sherry in the evening; luxu-
rious 30'x60'; swimming pool
1045 Easum Drive, Napa
1-800-624-0395 candlelightinn.com
Check out our websitefor more lodging options
www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
NAPA VALLEY
L O D G I N G
Tee Off for a Cure for Brain Tumors Golf &Grapes Gala Event and Charity Pro-Am Classic
Meet, greet and play with PGA and LPGATour Pros at the exclusive Mayacama Golf
Club. The First Annual Jocelyn LonenWinery Golf & Grapes Gala and CharityPro-Am Classic will benefit the MusellaFoundation for Brain Tumor Research. Thetwo-day event features a gala, live auction,golf tournament and awards ceremony.
Sunday, October 4 Gala Event atMayacama (www.mayacama.com) The winecountrys private golf, lodging and wine club;4:30 to 11 p.m. Meet and greet the Tour Prosover cocktails and wine tasting; silentauction, dinner, live auction and dancing.
Monday, October 5 Charity Pro-Am
Classic, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Mayacama,nestled in the picturesque hills of northernSonoma County. Meet, greet and golf with
the Tour Pros.Gala Event Sunday, October 4, 4:30
to 11 p.m. Enjoy cocktails and wine
tasting with delectable hors doeuvres, over-
looking the 1st and 18th holes, minglingwith the Tour Pros, winemakers and vint-
ners. Join the silent auction at the club-house; dine in the stone courtyard shaded
by graceful trees, enjoying a four coursedinner featuring beef tenderloin and bid on
select lots during the live auction. Danceunder the moonlight and stars following the
live auction.Charity Pro-Am Classic Monday,
October 5, 9:30 to 8 p.m. Arrive in timefor the continental breakfast when the
driving range opens. After registering at theclubhouse, join the golf clinic given by Tour
Pros at the driving range with sweepingvistas of the magnificent scenery. At 11:30
a.m, the golf tournament begins withshotgun start. A scramble format inclu
two flights: a Pro-Am flight fivesomwith one Tour Pro and four amateurs and
Amateur flight foursomes, with famateurs. After the tournament, meet
greet the Tour Pros, winemakers and vners while enjoying cocktails, wine and hdoeuvres in the wine caves beneath
clubhouse. Enjoy dinner featuring shortand awards following.
Confirmed PGA Tour players inclJason Caron, Ian Baker-Finch, DA Poi
Brett Quigley, Jimmy Walker and ChaWarren. Confirmed LPGA Tour play
include Kate Golden, Liz Janangelo, CiRarick and Carri Wood.
For details and package prices, vwww.golfandgrapes.org, call (707) 8
6263 or email [email protected]
Jocelyn Lonen Winery Golf & Grapes Even
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE
3
Charles Krug Winery welcomes wine, food and music lovers to the
58th Annual Tastings on the Lawn, Saturday, September 19th. Strollamong the towering oak trees on the lush grounds at Napa Valleys
first winery while you taste the current releases of ultra-premium
wines, including Family Reserves and Limited Releases. Members of
the Peter Mondavi Sr. family will greet guests, sign bottles and answer
questions about the wines and the renovation of this historic estate.
Whether you favor the fresh, crisp taste of a Sauvignon Blanc or
the fruity mouthfeel that rewards your palate with the Family Reserve
Generations, youre sure to find a wine that youll love. With each of
the fifteen current releases, food pairings created by Calistogas All
Seasons Catering will be offered for your enjoyment.If that isnt enough, throw off your shoes and squish your toes in
the soft grass while you dance to the beat of the classic rock guitaristPaul Hlebcars four-piece Across the Pond band. Walk through the
renovated Carriage House and reward yourself with barrel tastings of
our upcoming Family Reserve releases and meet with winemaker
David Galzignato.
The event also welcomes back for his fifth year at TOL famed
Santa Rosa caricaturist, Doug Shannon. This free activity lets Doug
capture unique and colorful features of the attendees to take home
and enjoy.
Cesare and Rosa Mondavi originated the Tastings on the Lawn in
1951 as a means to educate consumers about wine. Fifty-eight years
later, Peter Mondavi, now the family patriarch, continues the tradition
on the grounds of the Charles Krug estate, established in 1861 byPrussian immigrant Charles Krug and acquired by his parents in
1943.
Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, straw hats and comfy shoes are
encouraged!
Advance tickets for the 21 and over event, which runs from 2 to 5
p.m., are available online at www.charleskrug.com for $30 and at the
door for $35. Advance purchase tickets can be picked up at will call
the day of the event. Call 1-888-747-5784 with questions. Visitors
will receive a 20 percent discount on all wines purchased that day.
Charles Krug Winery is located at 2800 Main Street in St. Helena.
Tasting room and picnic area are opn daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tastings on the Lawn
at Charles Krug Winery
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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
Mondavi family import company selected
as exclusive U.S. importer for leading
Umbrian wine producer.
Folio Fine Wine Partners, a MichaelMondavi Family-owned company that
represents specially selected wines from the
great winegrowing families of the world,
announced today that it has been named as
the U.S. importer for all Arnaldo Caprai
wines.
We are delighted to forge this partner-
ship with the Caprai family, said Michael
Mondavi, founder and coach, Folio Fine
Wine Partners. Our goal is to represent
great winemaking families of the world and
the Arnaldo Caprai wines will be a terrific
addition to our Italian portfolio. Umbria is
an exciting region that is growing in popu-
larity among fine wine consumers.
The current economic environment has
left consumers looking for wines that deliver
exceptional quality and value, without sacri-
ficing authenticity, Mondavi added
The winery is named after Arnaldo
Caprai, the successful textile businessman
who founded the company in 1971 to fulfill
his dream of producing his own wine.Starting off with only five hectares, Caprai
eventually acquired more vineyards over
time as he saw the great potential in the local
Umbrian varieties, in particular the Sagran-
tino grape. In 1988, Mr. Caprais son, Marco
Caprai, took over management of the winery.
We selected Folio Fine Wine Partners as
our new U.S. importer because we felt the
team had the passion and expertise required
to grow our brand, said Marco Caprai, CEO
of Arnaldo Caprai. Also, as quality wineproducers themselves, we believe Michael
Mondavi and his family have a unique
understanding of our business.
Arnaldo Caprai is the leading producer of
Sagrantino di Montefalco, a wine produced
from 100% Sagrantino grapes. Since its
inception, the company has been dedicated
to research and experimentation with
Sagrantino, a varietal that is native to the
Montefalco region. Through intensive clonal
selection, Caprai brought Sagrantino back
from near extinction. The winery employs
modern winemaking techniques to create
high quality, intense wines that maintain thedistinct character of Sagrantino.
Located in Montefalco near the town of
Assisi, the Arnaldo Caprai winery is a
contemporary facility that is dedicated to
educating the public about Sagrantino.
The following Arnaldo Caprai wines are
currently available at fine wine shops and
restaurants:
Montefalco Sagrantino 25th Anniversary,
Montefalco Sagrantino Collepiano, Monte-
falco Rosso, Grecante Grechetto dei Colli
Martani, Anima Umbra Rosso and Anima
Umbra Bianco.
About Folio Fine Wine Partners
Folio Fine Wine Partners was founded
2004 by Michael Mondavi and his w
Isabel, with their children, Dina and Rwho oversees winegrowing operations for
company. Folio is an importer, fine w
agency and producer of quality wines f
the worlds premiere and emerging w
regions. Folio provides sales, marketing
public relations services to wine brands f
California, Argentina, Italy, Austria, Germ
Spain and New Zealand.
Folio also operates a custom-crush win
called the Folio Winemakers Studio, loc
in Napas Carneros region, and a wine
called the Folio Enoteca & Winery at
Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa
Folio Fine Wine Partners Adds Arnaldo Caprai to Portfol
Help ZD Wines stomp grapes! This year, visitors
will discover the very essence of harvest season in Napa
Valley. Its about the people, the wine, the beauty of the
valley, and taking full advantage of the season with a
three-day harvest celebration centered around ZDs
40th anniversary. Founded in 1969, ZD Wines willhost three days of food, wine and entertainment to
commemorate four decades of winemaking.
WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS
Friday, October 2 40th Anniversary Abacus XI Dinner
Kick-off the weekend celebration. 20 couples will check-in to The Carneros Inn
before enjoying an Abacus XI release at the Hilltop Dining Room.
Saturday, October 3 40th Anniversary Festival
Be the first to sample fermenting 2009 harvest grapes from the barrel in ZDs White
Room, experience a grape stomp, barrel-making demonstration, live music and a silent
barrel auction of 2008 Founders Reserve Pinot Noir to benefit the di Rosa Art Alive.
Sunday, October 4 40th Anniversary Return to the Pastat di Rosa Art Alive
Guests will join the deLeuze family at the di Rosa Art Alive at Winery Lake Vine-
yard, a historic location for ZD Wines, founding vineyard that provided the grapes for
the first crush in 1969.
For detailed information about the 40th Anniversary Celebration and ticket price,
visit www.zdwines.com/40thanniversary.html
The tasting room at ZD Wines is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ZD Wines is
located on the Silverado Trail in the town of Rutherford.
ZD Wines Celebrates 40th Anniversary
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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
by Michelle J. BakerIt s harvest season, the magical time of
year in wine country when theres a buzz in
the air, on the street and in the vineyards
carrying the promise of a new vintage.
And, its the perfect time to head over to
Louis M. Martini Winery, where you can
experience harvest up close and personally
in the winerys extended Harvest Tour.
On the tour visitors get to spend time in
the estate vineyard, Thomann Station, where
they have been growing Petite Sirah since the1980s. Youll learn all about viticulture; have
a chance to taste grapes in the vineyard; and
do some sugar sampling with a refractometer
as well as learning about the winerys rich
history and commitment to making distinc-
tive wines.
The winery is also featuring a Reserve
tasting this fall that includes the 2004 Monte
Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon, plus 2004 and
2005 Lot 1 Cabernet Sauvignons side-by-
side. These are tremendously complex and
interesting wines that youll want to sit and
enjoy slowly, think about and talk about.
The Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon
comes from the winerys crown jewel the
historic Monte Rosso Vineyard. This
renowned vineyard, purchased by Louis M.
Martini in 1938, has the perfect conditions
for great Cabernet Sauvignon old vines,
rocky, red volcanic soils, and mountain
elevation.
The Lot 1 designation was first used by
Louis P. Martini in 1968 for special premiumlots made from top Napa Valley fruit. Today,
third-generation winemaker Mike Martini
honors the winerys legacy as a leader in
producing ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvi-
gnons by blending the best lots of Napa
mountain fruit to make Lot 1.
Visitors can also choose from a couple
other tastings in their visit to Martini. The
Taste the Winery Exclusives flight features
wines from No. 254, the micro-winery at
Martini that is focused on producing sm
batches of Cabernet Sauvignon, Caber
blends and an occasional surprise. T
tasting also includes the 2003 Los Nio
wine Mike Martini started to make in 19
upon the birth of his first child. Now in
25th vintage, every year children under
age of five design the label for the Los Ni
The Taste of the Appellation fli
features a comparative tasting of Caber
Sauvignons. Experience the differe
place makes in this tasting of the 20
Alexander Valley, the 2006 Napa Valleythe 2005 Monte Rosso (Sonoma Val
Cabernet Sauvignons.
Before you leave, dont forget to ch
out the winerys fine selection of soft good
books, clothing, wine accessories, glassw
and more.
Visit Louis M. Martini Winery at 2
South St. Helena Highway, just a mile so
of the town of St. Helena. The tasting ro
is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily.
Tasting Room of the Week:
LOUIS M. MARTINIWINERY
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE
S T . H E L E N A
Plan an afternoon stop at Louis M. Martini on September 12 for the winerys Annual Cellar Sale. The
sale offers the opportunity to buy cases of older vintage wines and big bottles, all at an incredible value
with huge savings of 50-70% off retail prices! Its a great opportunity to stock up your cellars and wine
racks in time for the holiday season, or chip in with some friends on a few cases of library treasures.
There will be a limited number of bottles available that have been signed by Mike Martini, making them
a great gift for the wine lovers in your life or a fabulous talking point at your
next gathering! The winery will be serving Italian cheeses and library wines
will be available for tasting.
New Release Zinfandel and Petite Sirah at Louis Martini
Louis Martini Winery is kicking off fall with a couple of winery-exclu-
sive new releases. The 2006 Monte Rosso Gnarly Vine Zinfandel comes
from vines planted in 1890s on the historic Monte Rosso Vineyard. These
vines have twisted upon themselves over the years and so turn out limited
quantities of small clusters,