Wine Regions multi, Wine & Jazz, Vint. 2 Trk 3, Melissa Chavez

MMy original vision for Wine and Jazz magazine was to produce a publication that equaled and eventually surpassed the quality of my family’s multi-award winning Powerboat Magazine, which we published from 1968 through 2005. Although WAJ has yet to receive o� cial accolades from our publishing peers in the form of industry awards (we are relatively new on the scene after all!), the changes you see with Vintage 2, Track 3 represent another giant step closer to reaching that goal.

The � rst upgrades you’ve probably noticed are that our magazine is thicker and has a glued binding. We signi� cantly increased the number of pages by including more editorial and photos. I wanted to give you a magazine that looks, feels and reads more like a co� ee table book—a magazine you’ll want to display, enjoy at your own pace, show o� to your friends, and regularly refer to for more information about this perfect lifestyle combination.

You may recall Melissa Chavez, whose � rst editorial contribution to WAJ was last issue’s wine region story on Sonoma County. She did such a great job we not only invited her back, but augmented her writing responsibility � ve-fold. Looking forward, in every issue of WAJ, Melissa will bring us regional wine features for each of California’s “top � ve”: Sonoma,

Napa, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, and Temecula. In future issues, WAJ will be exploring other wine regions in California, Oregon, Washington, and New York, to name a few.

From our debut issue, Cameron Smith took the reins of our “Jazz Juice” column, giving us heaps of fun insights into his globe-trotting, jazz celebrity-� lled lifestyle. Thanks Cameron! I want to thank you for the rollicking ride. You are one cool dude and will be missed. After this fond farewell to Cameron, I am ecstatic to inform you we now have a new columnist on board. To downplay it a bit (then knock your socks o� !), she is one cool and musically talented artist: the legendary jazz vocalist, two-time Grammy-winner and Tony-winning stage actress, the great Dee Dee Bridgewater. I am thrilled that such an accomplished singer and actress has agreed to write for WAJ. Whew, I need to pause now to catch my breath.…

We’ve got something really good fermenting here! And, we’re getting close to developing the ideal blend of wine and jazz and writers and editorial and images to create what I hope will be a magazine that, not only stands out

creatively with our own unique look and voice, but stands head and shoulders above the rest. This is a challenging endeavor as, unlike other publications, we have two discerning audiences to inform and inspire—therefore, two magazine genres to compete in rather than one. This unique challenge is part of what makes WAJ so rewarding for me. The other part is the universally positive feedback and encouragement I get from both sides of the aisle—wine lovers of all stripes, along with jazz a� cionados, both in the business and fans.

Lastly, recognition must go out to a person who works quietly behind the scenes, yet is as vital to the quality of our � nal WAJ product as any of us. A special thank you to our copy editor, Diane Browning.

Enough said by me. Please enjoy our enhanced WAJ magazine!

~ MIKE NORDSKOG

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

the ideal � endPHO

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~ MIKE NORDSKOG

PUBLISHER’S PICK: Dry Creek Vineyard 2006 Beeson Ranch ZinfandelDee Dee Bridgewater Eleanora Fagan (1917-1959): To Billie With Love From Dee Dee

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apa Valley embodies all that is glamorous about the world of � ne wine. Extravagant architecture, formal gardens, and uninterrupted

rows of meticulously tended vines suggest that California’s spin on New World winemaking is not only tame, but a terribly civilized business.

Though it boasts a supersized reputation, in terms of actual size the Napa Valley is not nearly as large as it seems. Little more than ten percent the size of Bordeaux, the French winemaking region to which it is most often compared, Napa Valley is less than � ve miles across at its widest point and only 30 miles in length. Extending diagonally northwest to southeast, this legendary valley is delineated by the Mayacamas Mountains on the west and the Vaca Mountains to the east.

Climate and soil variation along this 30-mile stretch of terroir create a generous palette of wine � avors to please even the most � nicky artisan winemaker. The climate here is warm by day, especially along the northern sector of this valley which ends near the lively spa town of Calistoga. Heat-loving grapes like cabernet sauvignon and merlot � ourish here and continue to excel down the length of the valley. World class wines are crafted from grapes grown in the soils surrounding the wine town of Rutherford, only to be outdone by wines harvested from the rari� ed mountain vineyards rising up, up, and away from the valley � oor.

Venture to the southern terminus of the Napa Valley AVA, and it’s a di� erent story altogether. Here lies the much cooler Los Carneros district, a sub-appellation shared with neighboring Sonoma County. Even on the warmest summer evening, a sweater is a necessity in Carneros due to bracing winds and fog blowing inland o� the San Pablo Bay. In response to the chilly growing conditions, this sub-appellation of the Napa Valley is planted almost exclusively to cool-loving grapes that yield emphatic varietal expressions of chardonnay and pinot noir.

Napa trailblazersThe Napa Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) was

formed in 1981, although historical records reveal winemaking began in the early 19th century as missionaries and European settlers established their own roots in this stunningly beautiful valley. George Calvert Yount secured a Spanish land grant back in 1831, becoming its � rst white settler. The � rst commercial vineyard was planted by John Patchett in 1858. Soon thereafter, Charles Krug founded the � rst commercial winery in St. Helena, followed Schramsberg Vineyards, a Calistoga landmark immortalized in by Robert Louis Stevenson in his lively travel memoir, Silverado Squatters. H.W. Crabb, the botanist of the bunch, experimented with 400 varieties in pursuit of the perfect grapes (1868). There was Jacob and his brother Frederick Beringer in Spring Mountain (1876), Captain Gustave Niebaum’s Inglenook (1879), and Georges de Latour’s Beaulieu Vineyard estate near Rutherford (1900).

The Napa Valley rose to international acclaim in 1976 as a result of the “Judgment of Paris” blind tasting which pitted the best of French wines against California � nest vintages. In both the red and white wine categories, Napa Valley bottlings emerged victorious, leaving the French feeling quite blue, while a¡ rming what the Golden State vintners already knew in their hearts. Movie fans may want to revisit this stunning stateside victory as depicted in the recent indie � lm “Bottle Shock” (2008). Decades later, indignant French winemakers demanded a rematch. At “The Judgment of Paris” 30th Anniversary tasting, American wines once again took the top spots—� ve of them this time —again, all from the Napa Valley.

Certainly, Robert Mondavi deserves much of the credit for advancing the reputation of Napa Valley wines. An early supporter of technological advances, he created new brands and provided major philanthropic donations to the region. In 2007, the Culinary Institute of America inducted him into the Vintner’s Hall of fame. A year later, the Robert Mondavi Institute at University of California at Davis opened, just � ve months after his death at age 94.Background Photo: Carneros Winescape PHOTO: Tom Moyer

Napa Valley

An enigmatic lifestyleSmall communities like St. Helena and Oakville

dot the Napa Valley, where Ford pickups park com-fortably alongside Ferraris. A pervasive sophistication is

unmistakable, but guardians of the grape cannot a� ord to ignore make-or-break realities. While sleepy tourists are still counting sheep, local grape growers have already raced to redeem their future harvests threatened by frost.

Here, one can � nd multimillion-dollar resorts, a modern-day castle, decorative storefronts, a vintage wine train, or a 150-year-old barn under towering redwoods. There are top-rated restaurants, spas, world-class resorts, hot springs, and galleries displaying works by talented artists. When aromas of grilled meats and veggies mingle with vintage cabernet beckons, a quick stop at a winery suddenly becomes a day trip.

California’s Napa Valley is rife with opportunities to engage and indulge all the senses. Consider the brief overview of possibilities before planning your next visit (on the following page). Enjoy!

Carneros winescape

PHOTO: Tom Moyer

Small but mightyIt may come as a surprise that the Napa Valley accounts

for only � ve percent of the total United States vineyard acreage. From largest to smallest in volume, its grape varietals include cabernet sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. Relative newcomers—sangiovese, syrah, petite sirah, cabernet franc, pinot noir, petit verdot and malbec—now collectively outnumber merlot vines. Most wines from this prestigious AVA retail between $30 and $50, but can easily ascend to hundreds of dollars per bottle. Not unlike framed masterpieces, Napa Valley’s “liquid art” is often collected as such.

According to Terry Hall, spokesperson for the Napa Valley Vintners Association, “Millennials are driving the American wine industry. They are the � rst generation to grow up with the Internet so they are information-savvy. They also grew up knowing terms, like ‘organic,’ ‘sustainable,’ and‘heirloom,’ and are wildly interested in the source of their products—food and wine.”

WITH SCENIC BEAUTY AND CLIMATE RIVALING THE FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE,

NAPA VALLEY REMAINS UNSURPASSED AS NORTH AMERICA’S PREMIER

LOCALE FOR THE CULTIVATION OF WINE GRAPES. IT’S ALSO THE MOST

VISITED, AND FOR A VERY GOOD REASON: SUPERLATIVE WINES.

Castello di Amorosa Winery turret in Calistoga, CA PHOTO: Jim Gateley

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CELEBRATING WINE AND JAZZ

Brannan’s GrillGreat food, award winning wine list

and live jazz

Calistoga: 707.942.2233

BrannansGrill.com

Downtown Jazz & Blues

Festival/ Blues in the Vineyards

November 1 (1-5 p.m.);

November 2 (12-4 p.m.)

Downtown venues and

participating wineries

Calistoga: 707.942.6333

Miner Family VineyardsWinery and cave tours by appointment,

Benedetto Guitars concert in August

Oakville: 800.366.WINE, MinerWines.com

Napa River Wine, Crafts

& Jazz FestivalCelebrating handcrafted arts, live jazz

music and wine

Napa: 707.257.0322

NapaWineAndCraftsFair.com

Robert Mondavi WineryExpansive mission-inspired winery,

art displays, open-air concerts

Oakville: 888.766.6328

RobertMondaviWinery.com

Silo’s Jazz ClubDinner, wine, and live jazz Wednesday

thru Saturday nights

Napa: 707.251.5833, SilosJazzClub.com

WINERIES

Castello di Amorosa Winery

A modern-day castle and winery

Calistoga: 707.967.6272

CastelloDiAmorosa.com

Hill Family Estate Winery

Heirloom BLT Bar and 2008 Sauvignon

Blanc Release Party in August

Yountville: 707.944.9580

HillFamilyEstate.com

Sterling VineyardsTour, art gallery, and aerial tram ride

with admission

Calistoga: 707.942.3345

SterlingVineyards.com

ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

Artisan Wine ToursPersonalized luxury Napa Valley tours

Sonoma: 877.414.2021

ArtisanWineTours.com

Bonaventura Balloon Company

Napa Valley passenger fl ights

Napa: 800.FLY-NAPA

BonaventuraBalloons.com

Chardonnay Golf ClubSemi-private, 18-hole course meanders

through 150 acres of vineyard

Napa: 800.788.0136

ChardonnayGolfClub.com

Harvest StompHudson Vineyards in Carneros on

August 28, sponsored by Napa Valley

Grape Growers

Napa: 707.224.8644, NapaGrowers.org

Napa Valley Opera House

Constructed in 1879, 500 seats,

live concerts

Napa: 707.226.7372

NVOH.org

Napa Valley Wine TrainThree-hour, 36-mile trip in a 1915-17

Pullman dining car or 1947 Vista

Dome car

Napa: 800.427.4124

WineTrain.com

Oakville GroceryWines, picnic supplies and

specialty foods

Oakville: 707.944-8802

OakvilleGrocery.com

LODGING

Arbor Guest House Bed

& BreakfastGarden setting, three-course

breakfast, WI-FI, fi replace, Jacuzzi

Napa: 707.252.8144

ArborGuestHouse.com

Best Western Elm House Inn

Well-priced hotel with amazing cookies

and “Napa” ambience

Napa: 707.255.1831

Book.BestWestern.com

Napa River InnHistorical waterfront landmark with

all the modern amenities

Napa: 877.257.8500

NapaRiverInn.com

The Cottages of Napa Valley

Privacy, well appointed cottages, breakfast

baskets, Bouchon baked goods

Napa: 707.252.7810

NapaCottages.com

The Inn On FirstSan Francisco-style B&B, Cordon

Bleu-trained chef, dog-friendly

Napa: 866.253.1331

TheInnOnFirst.com

RESTAURANTS

ABC Bakery/Alexis Baking Company

Delicious breakfast and lunch,

decadent desserts

Napa: 707.258.1827

AlexisBakingCompany.com

Bistro Don GiovanniFresh pasta, brick oven pizza, terrace, views

Napa: 707.224.3300

BistroDonGiovanni.com

Tra VigneItalian-style Sunday brunch

St. Helena: 707.963.4444

TraVigneRestaurant.com

INFORMATION

Napa Valley Vintners Association

Non-profi t trade association

St. Helena: 707.963.3388

NapaVintners.com

Our Napa Valley Picks

Castello di Amorosa Winery art walls

PHOTO: Jim Gateley

3 guitars at Gargiulo Vineyards

PHOTO: Artisan Wine Tours

The Cottages of Napa Valley

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ave you ever wondered what the Napa Valley was like before its current chic and gentri� ed incarnation? The answer lies a mere 30-minute

drive west over the mountains. Once you drop down into Sonoma County’s Valley of the Moon, you’ll discover vineyards unfurling at a more leisurely pace among gently rolling hills punctuated by mossy ancient oaks that exude the solidity of the ages. The Sonoma Valley is a quiet, peaceful, and romantic place. Sound like the wine country of your dreams? In Sonoma Valley, it’s your dream come true.

There’s a compelling reason why Sonoma Valley is the real deal: it’s the birthplace of California winemaking. This is where it all began, folks, and the imprint of the region’s wine history is scattered all over the valley.

For starters, head on over to the City of Sonoma’s charming and historic Sonoma Plaza, a gathering place for the city’s many festivals and Tuesday farmers markets. Begin your tour at the Mission San Francisco Solano which anchors the northeast corner of the plaza. The last built and most northern outpost along California’s mission trail, when this structure was dedicated in 1824 it was blessed with sacramental wines made by Franciscan friars who planted their � rst vineyards here back in the early 1800s.

Decades later, the Mission’s proliferation of rootstock throughout Northern California made for another unseen blessing. The friars’ wine grapes were laying the foundation for an essential component of California’s agricultural economy. The importance of Sonoma Valley’s wine grapes was not lost on Agoston Haraszthy, a native of Hungary who wisely purchased a Sonoma parcel in 1856 and named it Buena Vista Winery the following year. Armed with 100,000 imported European vine cuttings, Haraszthy planted and grew both his vineyard and his legacy, which remain intact in the present-day reincarnation of the winery. For history bu� s, a self-guided tour of the historic Buena Vista Winery is a must, second only to a visit to nearby Bartholomew Park Winery. Once known as “The Castle,” this stunning old winery houses the Sonoma Valley’s History of Wine in America Museum, a fascinating collection of regional wine memorabilia.BACKGROUND PHOTO: Artist in Sonoma Valley by Robert Janover

Sonoma ValleyNATURAL BEAUTY, SMALL-TOWN CHARM, AND HISTORY ARE THE HALLMARKS OF SONOMA VALLEY.

LITTLE WONDER THEN WHY SO MANY POETS, ARTISTS, FARMERS, AND VINTNERS LIVE HERE—AND WHY

WORLD-WEARY SOULS FROM OTHER PLACES SO OFTEN WISH THEY DID, TOO.

H

Count

PHOTO: Sonoma Cty Tourism Bureau

Defined by diversityThe simple use of the name “Sonoma” often leads to

confusion in a wine growing region as large and scattered as Sonoma County. “There are actually three ‘Sonomas,’” explains Tina Luster of the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau. “One of is the City of Sonoma, located on the southwest section of the county. Another is Sonoma Valley, referring to the 17-mile sub-appellation o to the east and, � nally, there’s Sonoma County, which encompasses the town, neighboring towns, and the valley.”

The Sonoma Valley, encompassing the southeastern section of Sonoma County, is the largest of the four viticultural areas in the region. Sonoma Valley stretches from the populous county seat of Santa Rosa, southward to San Pablo Bay. The valley encompasses over 15,000 acres of fertile, loamy soil, but is also arid, receiving an annual average of only 29 inches of rain. The Sonoma Mountain and Mayacamas Mountain ranges also help shelter the valley from westerly fog and precipitation.

In the upper warmer locations, zinfandel and cabernet sauvignon thrive. Midway below, sauvignon blank and merlot are grown. In the cooler areas, chardonnay, pinot noir, riesling and gewürztraminer make for excellent still and sparkling wines.

VisitingSonoma Valley o ers a colorful patchwork quilt of things to

do and see. Wine lovers, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, and shoppers seeking relief from the same-old-same-old franchise scene will all � nd plenty to enjoy in this charming and unique part of wine country. Here, diversity harmonizes into a refreshingly unique

and enjoyable whole experience.

A regional highlight for readers of all stripes is the Jack London State Historic State Park, just minutes away from the Sonoma Plaza in the village of Glen Ellen. Surrounded by redwoods, � rs, and

oaks, visitors entering London’s well preserved stone cottage called “The House of Happy Walls” share an authentic experience while browsing the museum dedicated to his beloved “Beauty Ranch” in the Valley of the Moon. A lake, bathhouse, and ruins of the “Wolf House” nearby also draw many to stroll the trails of this

historic park site dedicated to one of America’s cultural icons.While in Glen Ellen, stop by the B.R. Cohn Winery and Olive

Oil Company to sample � ne wines and artisan olive oils pressed from fruit harvested from ancient picholine olive trees planted back in the 1870s. Music lovers may want to time their visit to coincide

with the winery’s annual Fall Music Festival, to be held this year on October 8-9. Proprietor Bruce Cohn, manager of the Doobie Brothers for 36 years, has not yet announced his upcoming line-up of artists, but last year’s star-studded event spotlighted Journey, Taj Mahal and, of course, his old pals the Doobie Brothers.

Venture further southeast and you’ll arrive at the sleepy wine town of Kenwood. Here, the � fth generation of a grape growing family operates the Kunde Family Estate, begun after their ancestors imported and planted grape cuttings from France’s Chateaux Margaux and La� te Rothschild in 1879. Drive a few miles further, and watch for the sign to Chateau St. Jean, a welcoming winery housed in a gracious old landmark mansion.

Foodies could spend days sampling every cuisine to be found in the region, where fresh produce is showcased in almost every o ering. Or, take a bit of Sonoma home with you. A chunk of mezzo secco jack from the Vella Cheese Company will surely provide a happy counterpart to that coveted bottle of local chardonnay or cabernet sauvignon.

There’s something for everyone here—whether book readings, golf, and jazz festivals, to sculpting, theater, or exploring newfound trails. Sonoma Valley’s towns, wineries, and homesteads seem to provide an artist’s palette for adorning vibrant swaths of green. Amidst such diversity, everyone can enjoy soaking up the intrinsic beauty and culture that is Sonoma. And who wouldn’t want to toast to that?


Count Agoston Haraszthy

Russian River

PHOTO: George Rose

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Cline Cellars Dixieland Jazz & Wine FestivalA salute to jazz, wine, and food July 17

Sonoma: 707.940.4025

ClineCellars.com

Petaluma Wine Jazz & Blues FestivalGreat jazz and blues on Sonoma

County’s southside August 7

Petaluma: 707.769.9650

PetalumaWineJazzAndBluesFestival.org

Russian River Jazz & Blues Festival

Amazing jazz weekend, great food, wine

tasting on the river, September 11-12

Russian River: 510.655.9471

OmegaEvents.com

WINERIES

Buena Vista WineryHistoric stone winery, California’s fi rst

Sonoma: 800-926-1266

BuenaVistaCarneros.com

Bartholomew Park Winery

Stunning setting, wine history museum,

and exclusive winery-only wines

Sonoma: 707.935-9511

BartholomewParkWinery.com

B.R. Cohn Winery & Olive Oil CompanyPlenty of history, including rock

& roll greats

Glen Ellen: 800-330-4064

BRCohn.com

Kunde Family EstateSustainable winegrowing, eco-tours,

guided wine cave tours

Kenwood: 707.833.5501

Kunde.com

Chateau St. JeanGracious 1920s manse surrounded by

beautiful gardens

Kenwood: 707.833.4134

ChateauStJean.com

Tin Barn Vineyards No-fuss tasting room and warehouse

winery, where the wine is the star

Sonoma: 707.938.5430

TinBarnVineyards.com


‘Bubbles & Brunch’ at Estate RestaurantWeekly Sunday brunch from 10-3 pm with

a $3 Prosecco Bar

Sonoma: 707.933.3663

Estate-Sonoma.com

Sonoma Wine Country Weekend

Throughout Sonoma Wine Country

September 3-5

800.939.7666SonomaWineCountryWeekend.com

Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival

Patron’s Night Gala, festival with wine

tasting, food, art, Grape Stomp, local

bands, September 24-26

Sonoma: 707.996.2109

SonomaVintageFestival.org

LODGING

Beltane RanchGorgeous two-story ranch farmhouse

inn. Farm-fresh produce, gardens, views,

chickens

Sonoma: 707.966.6501

BeltaneRanch.com

Inn at SonomaClose to Sonoma Plaza, breakfast, wine,

hors d’oeuvres, cookies

Sonoma: 888.568.9818

InnAtSonoma.com

MacArthur PlaceFormer 1850s Burris-Good estate with

64 rooms, gardens and pool

Sonoma: 707.938.2929

MacarthurPlace.com

Sonoma ChaletEclectic, unpretentious wine country

cottages with light breakfasts

Sonoma: 707.938.3129

SonomaChalet.com

The Hidden Oak InnRestored 1914 Craftsman-style bungalow

with nightly wine tasting

Sonoma: 707.996.9863

HiddenOakInn.com

RESTAURANTS

Harvest Moon CaféSeasonal food based on availability of fresh

produce, al fresco dining on large patio

Sonoma: 707.933.8160

HarvestMoonCafeSonoma.com

LaSalette RestaurantContemporary Portuguese cuisine

Sonoma: 707.938.1927

Lasalette-Restaurant.com

SantéMichelin-rated restaurant at

Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa

Sonoma: 707.938.9000

Fairmont.com/Sonoma

Taste of the HimalayasA refreshingly fl avorful dinner

option in wine country

Sonoma: 707.996.1161

HimalayaNext.com

The Girl and the FigBrunch, cheese cart, and a

‘Rhone-Alone’ wine list

Sonoma: 707.938.3634

TheGirlAndTheFig.com

INFORMATION

Sonoma County Tourism Bureau

‘America’s premier wine, spa and coastal

destination’

Santa Rosa: 800.576.6662

SonomaCounty.com

Sonoma Valley Vintners &

Growers AllianceSonoma: 707.935.0803

SonomaValleyWine.com

Our Sonoma Valley Picks

Beltane RanchBuena Vista Winery

Cline Cellars Dixieland

Jazz & Wine Festival


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BACKGROUND PHOTO: Paso Robles vineyards by Paso Robles Vintners’ and Growers’ Association

“AN ESTIMATED 58 PERCENT OF PASO ROBLES WINE GRAPES ARE SOLD TO WINERIES OUTSIDE THE AREA,

MAKING THEM THE ‘SECRET INGREDIENT’ IN OTHER CALIFORNIA WINES.”

– PASO ROBLES WINE COUNTRY ALLIANCE

he pioneer spirit is very much alive and well in Paso Robles. Although cattle ranchers, almond growers and grain farmers were more prevalent here only a decade ago, their in� uence lingers

on in this colorful, up-and-coming wine appellation. But don’t let the rustic and unpretentious feel of this oak-studded region fool you. According to wine insiders, the Paso Robles AVA, one of California’s fastest growing wine regions, has “the right stu� ” to one day challenge the Napa Valley as our nation’s premier red wine producing region.

Established in 1983, the Paso Robles AVA—located equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles—is the true center of California’s Central Coast. Bounded to the north by the Monterey County line, sheltered by the Santa Lucia Mountains to the west, the boundary of this sprawling new wine region stretches past the remote outpost of Cholame—where a James Dean roadside memorial marks this notorious east-west highway intersection—before narrowing southward toward Santa Margarita. Today, the fact that just 26,000 acres of the 614,000 acre region have already been planted to wine grapes reveals the sleeping production potential of this gangly young wine region, blessed by nature with equally large reserves of quality.

Today, cabernet sauvignon is king among the 40 di� erent grape varietals grown in Paso Robles and vini� ed by its approximately 200 wineries. Other leading varieties are merlot, syrah, and zinfandel. In addition, the amount of acreage dedicated to Rhone varietals is on the rise, drawing fervent fans among self-proclaimed “Rhone Rangers.” According to Gary Eberle, Paso Robles AVA co-founder, “As Americans become more sophisticated, they’re branching out into Rhônes, Cal-Italian, and Spanish varieties. People are looking for new and interesting things, but cabernet, chardonnay, and pinot noir won’t be replaced. With the proliferation of new labels and marketing, it’s hard. You have to make good wine.”

Modern wine pioneersBeginning in the 1960s, a new wave of pioneers

sparked the wine industry. Leading the charge in Paso Robles was Dr. André Tchelistche� , who planted the � rst chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and pinot noir vines. Following his lead were more grape growers and winemakers: Bob Young, Herman Schwartz and Gary Eberle, Dave Caparone, Treana Winery and Chateau Margene among them.

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Paso Robles

Eberle Winery

Castoro Cellars gardens

It is Gary Eberle who is credited with planting the region’s rst syrah wines. In 1984, this producer’s leadership was obvious when his winery’s cabernet sauvignon accompanied President Ronald Reagan’s historic six-day visit to President Li Xiannian in China. Arnold Schwarzenegger followed suit by serving Eberle wine when President George W. Bush visited Southern California. For all the fanfare, Gary Eberle readily lauds both youthful and seasoned vintners in his own “who’s who” of Paso Robles. A genuine world apart from executive winemaker rock stars, these Paso neighbors are quick to share a glass, viticultural know-how, or even a tractor, long after the day is done.

“Tom Meyers at Castoro Cellars is truly outstanding. Bill She� er (Halter Ranch) is another,” Eberle insists. “Jason Haas (Tablas Creek) and Austin Hope (Hope Family Wines) are two guys I’m really impressed with. Jason’s dad, Robert, was an icon when I was just starting. He’s turning out some really nifty wines. Ken Volk, L’Aventure, Villicana, and Opolo make spectacular wines. So do Paul Hoover (Still Waters Vineyards), Calcareous, Saxum, and Vic Roberts (Victor Hugo). Vic’s the most underrated. He’s always been a good winemaker, and he has no ego. Robert Nadeau turned out to be a super talent, and Cass Winery … wow! They all make really great wine. Paso Robles doesn’t have to play second ddle to anyone,” Eberle says with a smile. “We can be really proud of what we make.”


True terroir and diversityOne de ning feature of the Paso Robles AVA is the Templeton

Gap, a series of seven passes on Paso’s Westside. Fog and afternoon breezes wind through these corridors, funneling relief where 50-degree spikes can swell thermometers by mid-afternoon. “There’s a misconception that the hottest vineyards are on the Eastside and the coldest are on the Westside. That’s not true,” explains Gary Eberle, who says plenty of cooling breezes � ow in from Templeton Gap, as “it comes whistling through” his Paso Robles vineyards o� Highway 46 East. “The coldest climate, in fact, is in Santa Margarita. No one district is especially unique. It’s all unique!” Vintner Steve Cass couldn’t agree more. “There’s no

stop sign for those breezes at Highway 101 (which divide west and east). Westside properties signi cantly north or south of the Gap receive even less of its bene t. Since it’s primarily west-to-east breezes that fan out, the further inland it comes.”

“The best word to describe Paso Robles is diversity,” says Joel Peterson of Hope Family Wines. “We can grow a vast array of grapes and make really exceptional wines. Many di� erent varieties grow well here. That diversity is our biggest strength.”

“With eleven de ned microclimates that transcend our region, it’s less of a story of east and west and more a story of true terroir and diversity,” observes Christopher Taranto of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “There are 30 di� erent soil series across the Paso Robles AVA. That quality—combined with the long growing season, large diurnal temperature swing, and di� erent microclimates—a� ords us the ability to create a multitude of di� erent wines that cannot be pigeon-holed into one de nable category. In Paso Robles, there’s so much for the wine lover to discover while visiting.”

Why not pull out your travel planner and discover Paso Robles for yourself … before the crowds arrive. To get you started, on the following page are a few suggestions for things to do and see in this wonderfully laid-back corner of California wine country.

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Castoro CellarsAward-winning wines. Intimate, starlit

concerts among the vines; Concerts

this season: Café Musique, Peppino

D’Agostino, Karla Bonoff, Kenny Edwards

Templeton: 805.467.2002

CastoroCellars.com

D’Anbino Vineyards & Cellars

Winemaking musicians with live music

year-round

Paso Robles: 805.227.6800, DAnbino.com

WINERIES

Caparone WineryItalian varietal specialists. Father and

son are winemakers by day, Usonia Jazz

Band musicians by night

Paso Robles: 805.467.3827, Caparone.com

Eberle WineryAmong Top 10 medal award-winning

U.S. wineries. Winemaker Dinner in

the Caves, October 15

Paso Robles: 805.238.9607

Eberlewinery.com

Hunt CellarsColonial-style wine tasting room


HuntWineCellars.com

Sculpterra Winery & Sculpture Garden Family estate winery. Giant granite

sculptures, picturesque landscape


Sculpterra.com

Tobin James CellarsAward-winning wines, restored

stage coach stop

Paso Robles: 805.239.2204, TobinJames.com

Victor Hugo WineryTempleton area winemaker with

a reputation for excellence

Templeton: 805.434.1128

VictorHugoWinery.com


80th Annual Pioneer Day Parade

and CelebrationSaturday, October 9; Free activities:

old-fashioned parade, bean feed in

City Park, antique/classic cars, gazebo

concert, kid’s pet show, more


PasoRoblesPioneerDay.org

California Mid-State Fair

July 21 - August 1; Top-notch live concerts

and county fair, Jazz Night, Wine Plaza

805.239-0655 or 800.909.3247

MidStateFair.com

Harvest Wine WeekendOctober 15-17; Winery-hosted activities;

130 wineries, 150 events


PasoWine.com

Jack Creek FarmsFifth-generation Barlogio family-run

farm, country store, bakery

West Templeton: 805.238.3799

JackCreekFarms.com

The Wine LineFlexible ‘hop on, hop off’ tour to 60 wineries


HopOnTheWineLine.com

The Wine WranglerWine tour packages with knowledgeable

guides


TheWineWrangler.com

LODGING

Adelaide InnValue meets quality


AdelaideInn.com

Best Western Black Oak Motor LodgeNear Margie’s Diner and fairgrounds


BestWesternBlackOak.com

Hotel ChevalEquestrian-inspired luxury downtown


HotelCheval.com

JUST Inn Bed & Breakfast at

Justin Vineyards & Winery

Exquisite wine country suites, fi ne dining


JustinWine.com

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites

Luxury boutique hotel, Enoteca

Restaurant & Bar; Monthly concerts

in an intimate setting


LaBellasera.com

RESTAURANTS

ArtisanUnique approach to the American Bistro


ArtisanPasoRobles.com

Bistro LaurentCasual elegance, Country French cuisine


BistroLaurent.com

Hoover’s Beef PalaceRanch-style breakfasts and décor to match

Templeton: 805.434.2114

Il Cortile RistoranteRustic Italian with quality ingredients

Paso Robles; 805.226.0300

IlCortileRistorante.com

Villa Creek RestaurantRancho Mission Cuisine, Villa Creek

Cellars wines


VillaCreek.com

INFORMATION

Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance

Appellation, winery and events information


Experience Paso Robles

Directory of things to see and do


TravelPaso.com

Our Paso Robles Picks

Hotel ChevalDowntown

Paso Robles PHOTO: PRVGA

Castoro Cellars’

John Jorgenson Quintet


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BACKGROUND PHOTO: Temecula Valley Vineyards at Sunset

f you aren’t already familiar with this rising star—located in the southwest corner of California’s Riverside County, an hour from

San Diego and a mere half-hour east of the Paci� c Ocean—that’s probably because Temecula is among the newest on California’s growing list of wine appellations.

Because of the Temecula Valley’s proximity to the sea, its vineyards bene� t from warm, dry days cooled at night by brisk sea breezes � owing through the Rainbow Gap and other points of entry carved out of the coastal mountain range. In fact, Temecula’s dramatic diurnal temperature swings closely mimic the grape-growing conditions in Napa Valley. Little wonder then there are approximately 3,000 acres already planted, with plans for more in the future.

Similarities in climate aside, it is the unique soils that anchor and nourish the vines that make wines from Temecula so unique. Here, decomposed granite provides distinction for fruit grown in naturally well drained soils. Local winemakers believe that the presence of red clay, dark loam, and sandy components lend further complexity to the grape. Situated at an average elevation of 1,500 feet, Temecula grapes � ourish, happily free of the threat of mold until harvest.

A rich history, steeped in sun and graniteAlthough literal translations vary, Temecula is derived

from the Indian word, “Temecunga,” meaning “place of the sun” or “where the sun breaks through the mist.” The surrounding hillsides were once home to the Temecula tribe as early as 900 A.D. The various cultural settlements that stretched clear to the coast were all known as “Luisenos,” as many had become subject to in� uence by nearby Mission San Luis Rey.

Trappers, hunters and explorers accessed several area trails between 1820 and 1846, which later became the

root source of the Southern Emigrant Trail. Historical records, such as � eld surveyor’s notes, newspapers, travelers’ journals, diaries, legal records, maps, and photographs help corroborate their locations.

If those ancient trails could talk, one may imagine the stories they could reveal from society’s growing pains: California Gold Rush discoveries in 1848, the Butter� eld Overland Mail route between San Francisco and St. Louis, Civil War soldiers assigned to their posts, the in� ux of railroad transportation before the turn of the century, and thriving growth as a working ranch town. Today, modern-day counterparts soldier through one of these trails on a less treacherous commute: Highway 79 South.

An appellation is bornIn 1968, Vincenzo and Audrey Cilurzo established the

� rst commercial scale vineyard (now Bella Vista Winery), while Brookside Winery began its own vineyard plantings. A year later, Callaway Vineyard and Winery was established, followed by Mount Palomar in 1975. Nearly two-dozen wineries followed. By 1984, the Temecula AVA was o¢ cial; a decade later, the appellation was renamed the Temecula Valley AVA, which now encompasses 33,000 acres.

Planted acreage includes chardonnay, merlot, sauvignon blanc, viognier, syrah, and pinot gris grapes. Cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, and pinot noir also thrive along with smaller percentages of other varietals. The wineries, about three-dozen and growing, are an easy drive from the center of town. From large-scale operations to smaller, privately owned boutique wineries, the open spaces around the area enable many of the vineyards to be close by and accessible.

One of the smaller, well-established wineries is Palumbo Family Vineyards & Winery, run by Nicholas and his wife, Cindy. Their 13-acre estate produces 2,500 cases per year of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, and

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HAS LONG BEEN THE MAINSTAY OF AMERICAN WINEMAKING FOR MANY AN AFICIONADO.

AMONG THE NEWEST OF WINE APPELLATIONS IS TEMECULA VALLEY, TUCKED IN THE CORNER OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY,

AN HOUR FROM SAN DIEGO AND JUST THIRTY MINUTES FROM THE PACIFIC OCEAN. WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT

THIS NOSTALGIC LITTLE COUNTRY TOWN WOULD EMERGE TO GIVE THE SUPERSTARS A SERIOUS RUN FOR THE GOLD?

Temecula ValleyI

sangiovese, plus a new block of viognier and syrah. Nicholas is a big believer in what he finds are “two basic ingredients in making fine wines—the fruit itself and the barrels they age in.”

Phil and Carol Baily are the owners of Baily Vineyard & Winery. These modern-day Temecula winery pioneers have crafted estate wines from vineyards planted in 1982 and currently produce 5,000 cases annually. Specializing in red Bordeaux varieties, their efforts have yielded an impressive array of gold medals from State Fair competitions that include California, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Orange County, as well as the San Francisco Wine Competition. Regardless of the accolades, Phil doesn’t take himself too seriously. He attests, “So what makes a good wine and what makes a bad wine? Basically, it’s simple. There are really only two things to consider,” he says. “A good wine is a wine that smells good with no disagreeable odors, a wine that is smooth in the mouth, and a wine that leaves a pleasing and lingering aftertaste.”

Want to pull out all the stops in wine country? No problem. Temecula knows how to do fancy without the pretense at South Coast Winery Resort and Spa. The Grapeseed Spa and Villa accommodations are first-rate. But beyond the grand fountain entrance and rustic-beamed ceilings, a statuesque bobcat also provides a memorable tasting room welcome. Beyond pleasant décor, South Coast possesses a dizzying array of nearly 1,000 regional and international awards for their wines in only six year’s worth of production, with two dozen awards in 2008, alone. To top it off, South Coast was awarded the distinction of “Best Winery in California” in 2009, its second consecutive year to win this honor.

Owned by Jim Carter, wines from South Coast Winery’s Wild Horse Peak vineyard speak volumes. Here, afternoon breezes wield their way through vineyards of largely syrah and sangiovese grapes, which helps to produce healthy berries for irresistible wines for 50,000 cases. Not jaded by success, Jim still takes a simple, but refreshingly enthusiastic approach to wine grape cultivation: “All we do as a farmer is we work with what we know the grape is trying to do, and then we guide it to get the very best fruit that we can get to make our wine.” Master winemaker Jon McPherson and winemaker Javier Flores share a similar philosophy. Jon says, “It’s about letting the grapes speak. Javier and I simply listen and then carefully nurture the process.”

Preserving Old Town Temecula “Old Town” Temecula originally served as a supportive hub for

Vail Ranch, an 87,000-acre cattle and agricultural operation from 1904 to 1964. Later, the community experienced a revitalization that initially began in the 1960s, but proceeded in earnest in the 1980s. A sense of history has been integral to what has become a rapidly growing and thriving community of more than 100,000 residents. Careful planning has prioritized centrally located access to performing arts, historical and children’s museums, downtown small businesses, and neighborhood restaurants. A large-scale civic center construction project is in the works, geared to meet the needs of a population that has doubled over the last decade.

A walk through town is pleasant, and one is challenged to tell new construction from old. The City Council offered incentives for business owners to create storefronts that look a century or two old, even up close. When hunger strikes, locals and visitors enjoy old-fashioned juicy burgers, real-deal milkshakes, root beer floats, and house wine by the glass at Mad Madeline’s Grill on Front Street, where 18 hamburger choices and indecision collide. Water misters also provide welcome summertime comfort during the wait for half-pound Blue Cheese Burgers with bacon, Texas Burgers with grilled pastrami, and Buffalo Burgers. There’s even a dog-friendly patio, ideal for travelers with man’s best friend. At Public House, generous eight-ounce pours of red, white, or sparkling wines accompany buttermilk-soaked calamari steak strips and Pile O’ Pork Shanks. If there’s room for dessert, a decadent S’More Brownie or farm-fresh Berries, Cake ’N’ Cream might do the trick. Add live music, a flickering fire on the patio, a harvest moon, and you have one pleasant sensory overload.

There’s much to do in the Temecula wine region in summer, fall, and year-round. Music lovers can groove to eight bands in three locations at the Temecula International Jazz Festival, go hot air ballooning or golfing, visit antique shops and malls, or simply enjoy the clippety-clop of horse-drawn carriage rides through the vineyards. The variety only adds to all the fun.

Meanwhile, vintners at wineries large and small seem to share a collective approach to keeping winemaking enjoy-able and uncomplicated. If this translates to great wine, Temecula is a region that’s sure to become more avidly pursued in the years to come.

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Celebrating Wine and Jazz

baily’s Fine diningCalifornia cuisine in the heart of Old

Town. Live music on weekends

Temecula: 951.676.9567

OldTownDining.com

Falkner WineryWinery, restaurant, weekend jazz concerts

Temecula: 951.676.8231

FalknerWinery.com

Keyways Vineyard & Winery

“Wine Down Fridays” - mellow music,

wine and dinner

Temecula: 877.539.5297

KeywaysWine.com

thornton Winery“Champagne Jazz” concert series

Temecula: 951.699.0099

ThorntonWine.com

Wineries

longshadow ranchHorse-drawn carriage wine tasting trips

951.587.6221LongshadowRanchWinery.com

Miramonte WineryHip vibe with live music on Fri/Sat,

from 7-10 p.m.

Temecula: 951.506.5500

MiramonteWinery.com

Palumbo Family Vineyard

& WineryIntimate, family-run vineyard & winery

Temecula: 951.676.7900

PalumboFamilyVineyards.com

robert renzoni Vineyards

Tasting room featuring Italian style

wine portfolio; Picnic grounds

Temecula: 951.302.8466

RobertRenzoniVineyards.com

stuart CellarsFamily 40-acre estate vineyard with

360-degree views

Temecula: 888.260.0870, StuartCellars.com

Wilson Creek WineryHome of the award-winning Almond

Champagne

Temecula: 951.699.9463

WilsonCreekWinery.com

aCtiVities and eVents

temecula Valley international

Jazz FestivalHonoring Ella Fitzgerald on July 9-11, 2010

951.678.2517TemeculaJazzFest.com

‘taste of Winemaking’ seasonal seminarsJuly 24, 2010 and October 23, 2010

Callaway Vineyard and Winery

951.676.4001, CallawayWinery.com

Peltzer Pumpkin FarmsOpen daily: September 18 to October

31, 2010; Mini-railroad tides, pony rides,

petting farm, tractor collection, pig

races, and pumpkins!

951.695.1115, PeltzerFarms.com

temecula Outdoor Quilt show

October 2, 2010; Hundreds of quilts

displayed in Old Town

PMB 435, 27475 Ynez Road, Temecula,

CA 92591ValleyOfTheMistQuilters.com

a grape escape balloon adventure

Year-round excursions, weather

permitting; Sip Wilson Creek Winery

Almond Champagne from mid-air!

800.965.2122, HotAirTours.com

the grapeline Wine Country shuttle888.894.6379, GoGrape.com

lOdging

south Coast Winery resort & spa

Luxurious villas, full-service spa,

restaurant, winery

866.994.6379, WineResort.com

temecula Creek innRelaxed and spacious, with sweeping

golf greens

877.517.1823, TemeculaCreekInn.com

inn at Churon WineryElegant French Country chateau and winery

951.694.9070, InnAtChuronWinery.com

Pechanga resort & entertainment CenterLargest casino resort in California/

concert venue

888.732.4264, Pechanga.com

restaurants

Meritage at CallawayAl fresco, vineyard view dining featuring

Tapas menu

Temecula: 951.587.8889

CallawayWinery.com

smokehouse restaurant at Ponte

estate WineryGrape wood-fired food, small-batch

wines, vineyard views

951.252.1770, PonteWinery.com

Mad Madeline’s grillBurgers, buffalo, and pork ribs

877.805.6653, MadMadelinesGrill.com

the great Oak steakhouse

Angus beef and more than 900

wine selections

951.770.8507, Pechanga.com

temecula Pizza Company

Inventive, fresh-crust pizzas, hot

sandwiches, wines

951.694.9463 TemeculaPizzaCompany.com

inFOrMatiOn

temecula Valley Convention

and Visitor’s bureau951.491.6085, TemeculaCVB.com

temecula Valley Winegrower’s

association800.801.9463, TemeculaWines.org

Our Temecula Valley Picks

Stuart Cellars vista

Old Town Temecula Gateway

Live music every

Friday & Saturday night

at Miramonte Winery

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Santa Maria Valley & Sta. Rita Hills

f you’re looking for a truly “no-frills” wine getaway, one that’s the real deal—no pinky � ngers posing in mid-air, no scents of framboises lurking in your

wineglass, no menus with ingredients you’ve never heard of, no limos or Ferraris, and not a franchise in sight—then get thee to the “far side” of Santa Barbara County.

Instead of taking the turn-o� for Santa Ynez, keep heading north to visit the sub-appellations of Santa Maria Valley and Sta. Rita Hills, where you’ll discover a refreshingly unpretentious slice of California wine country, along with chardonnays and pinot noirs that are, hands-down, as good or better than many French Burgundies selling at twice the price.

Continue north to Santa Maria ValleyIt’s the lay of the land that makes this region so unique. Unlike

all other coastal valleys in California, instead of running north-south, the Santa Maria Valley runs directly west-east. Fog and wind pour in freely from the sea across this broad and open inland plain, sweeping across the City of Santa Maria and beyond, blanketing this AVA which encompasses 80,000 acres of vineyard potential.

Established in the early 1980s, this AVA rises from elevations barely above sea level near the Santa Maria River to as high as 3,000 feet at Tepusquet Peak. Toward the west, the valley receives copious morning fog and predictable afternoon winds, which blow well into the eastern part of the region to cool hotter terrain during occasional summer temperature spikes. Modest rainfall provides for more hang-time on the vine, allowing concentrated � avors to develop, a real qualitative advantage for the rows of mostly chardonnay and pinot noir planted in this region. Although the area is classi� ed as Climate Region I, rivaling Champagne in France and Rhine in Germany, a few Climate Region II conditions may be found further inland.

The oldest, largest, and most widely respected vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley is Bien Nacido Vineyards which grows chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot blanc syrah, and merlot. This vast

I

BACKGROUND PHOTO: Sta. Rita Hills

IT MAY COME AS A SURPRISE TO FANS OF THE

HIT FILM “SIDEWAYS” THAT ALL WINES FROM

SANTA BARBARA DO NOT HAIL FROM SANTA

YNEZ. UP THE ROAD APIECE, GREEN CARPETS

OF GRAPE VINES QUIETLY COEXIST WITH

SLOPING RANCHLANDS, ANCIENT RED OAKS,

AND MILES OF UNSPOILED EARLY CALIFORNIA

BEAUTY. IN PLACES SO REMOTE THAT CITY

SLICKERS CALL THEM “THE BACK OF BEYOND,”

WINE GRAPES HAVE BEEN GROWING WITHOUT

RED CARPET FANFARE FOR DECADES.

Santa Barbara Mission hallwayPHOTO: Anders Illum

operation sets a high standard for local wine grapes, and numerous wineries scattered throughout the region—from the San Rafael Mountains to the Santa Maria Mesa—line up to buy its ultra-premium fruit. The vineyard’s first plantings hailed from the early rancheros established in 1857. A century later, the fifth-generation Miller Family bought this acreage and neighboring property to restore the original Rancho Tepusquet. It was the Millers who named the property “Bien Nacido,” a Mexican expression akin to “born with a silver spoon.”

One of the oldest wine producers is Foxen Winery & Vineyard, established in 1985 by Bill Wathen and Dick Doré on the historic 2000-acre Rancho Tinaquaic. Among the first to plant vines in the 1970s, they continue growing chardonnay, syrah, and cabernet franc on their small, hillside vineyard. Their newest offerings include Bordeaux and Cal-Italian style wines which augment their traditional pinots, chardonnays, and Rhone-style blends.

Certainly no expense is spared in the vineyard or cellar at Cambria under the direction of proprietress Barbara Banke. Cambria specializes in wines made from 100% estate-grown grapes harvested from vines anchored in the unique soils of the Santa Maria Bench. Cambria’s handsome and comfortable tasting room is open daily. Be sure to sample Cambria’s Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, which offers an exceptional quality-price ratio, along with many limited edition wines sold only at the winery.

Before leaving this area, once ruggedly picturesque cowboy country populated by Basque and Portuguese ranchers (many of those who remain are steadfast in their preference for speaking their own local idiom), do yourself a favor and watch for a roadside stand selling local strawberries —the most tender and aromatic, same-day picked strawberries imaginable.

Head for the Sta. Rita Hills Established in 2001, this sub-appellation was previously

known as the Santa Rita Hills AVA until 2006, when the slight name change came at the behest of Vina Santa Rita, a major wine producer in Chile concerned about losing its thunder as a brand. Sandwiched between Buellton, a pit-stop along Highway 101, and blue collar Lompoc along the coast road, this region offers few amenities to the visitor. But, it does offer rapturously fine wines worthy of even the most demanding Burgundy connoisseurs.

Weather here is the coldest of the cold, and many growers shy away from such marginal climatic conditions. Maritime fog and breezes blow in from the sea through an expansive corridor that tunnels between the northern La Purisima and Santa Rosa Hills. Both the Santa Ynez River and Santa Rosa Road run parallel across the southern portion, where vineyards cluster in the lower elevations. These coveted microclimates make ideal conditions for growing ultra-premium chardonnay, pinot noir, and syrah, along with smaller amounts of pinot gris, sauvignon blanc, grenache, and viognier.

Be sure to check out the wines by Fiddlehead, Sea Smoke, and numerous other small producers in this region of artisan-crafted wines. Not all wineries offer daily tasting, so you may want to call ahead. But in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, odds are good that you’ll actually get to meet the winemaker and even share a glass with him or her in an unhurried pace with zero pretension. Here, vintners tend to let the wine and the area’s natural beauty do the talking. Small wonder why almost everyone who visits comes back for more.

Here, it is alma, explains Jim Fiolek, director of the Santa Barbara County Vintner’s Association. “It’s a Latin word, meaning to ‘nourish or incite the spirit.’ I like that. When you look up the hills, there’s nothing grand, yet there’s something great. It’s this overwhelming force you’re drawn into. One can see why the Chumash Indians held this land in such reverence.”

Speaking of reverence, nothing in this region, not even its stellar wines, are held in higher esteem than Santa Maria-style BBQ, perfectly seasoned slabs of melt-in-your-mouth tri-tip served with another regional specialty, silky smooth pinquinto beans—ahhh! It’s all served at its peak of perfection at the Hitching Post—with two locations to choose from, in Buellton or coastal Casmalia.

Where to stay during your visit? A posh sanctuary awaits you at the Fess Parker Inn and Spa in nearby Los Olivos. But if you’re feeling wacky enough for a fantasy retreat, check out one of the kitschy theme rooms—your choice of Gypsy, Pirate, King Tut, Roman, or French—at The Victorian Mansion in the old stagecoach stop town of Los Alamos, a charming rural village that hearkens back to another era.

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Rideau VineyardIris Rideau’s New Orleans jazz roots

defi ne this historical landmark tasting

room, with live jazz or blues on

weekends.

Solvang: 805.688.0717

RideauVineyard.com

WINERIES

Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards

Founded by veteran vintner

Richard Sanford; sustainable

practices in organic vineyard

Buellton: 805.688.9090

AlmaRosaWinery.com

Foxen Winery & Vineyard

One of the oldest Santa Maria Valley

vineyards; solar-powered operation

Santa Maria: 805.937.4251

FoxenVineyard.com

Cambria Winery & Vineyards

Estate-grown pinot noir,

chardonnay, syrah

Santa Maria: 888.339-9463

CambriaWines.com

Richard Longoria WinesWine tasting in the garden in

downtown Los Olivos

Los Olivos: 805.688.0305

LongoriaWine.com

Fiddlehead CellarsPinot noir specialists, plus

sauvignon blanc

Lompoc: 805.742.0204

FiddleheadCellars.com


California Wine Festival

Old Spanish Nights, Sunset Rare and

Reserve Wine Tasting, Beachside

Wine Festival

July 15-17Santa Barbara: 866.273.4148

CaliforniaWineFestival.com

Chumash Casino ResortCasino and Four Diamond resort, live

concert entertainment

Santa Ynez: 800.CHUMASH

ChumashCasino.com

LotuslandTruly inspirational botanic garden of

exotic and native plants on 37 acres,

garden shop, informative docents

provide two-hour walking tours

Santa Barbara: 805.969.9990

Lotusland.org

Old Spanish Days Fiesta

August 4-8

Celebrates the history and culture

of the American Indian, Spanish,

Mexicans and early settlers.

Free and paid events: arts, crafts,

fi esta foods, music, dancing, horse

shows, rodeos, carnivals


OldSpanishDays-Fiesta.org

Old Mission Santa Barbara

‘Queen of the Missions’ was built in 1786


SantaBarbaraMission.org

Sustainable Wine ToursExtensive tour services of Santa

Barbara appellation area wineries


SustainableVine.com

LODGING

Fess Parker Inn & SpaCountry elegance. Each room

decorated by Mrs. Parker.

Los Olivos: 800.446.2455

FessParker.com

The Victorian MansionFantasy-themed rooms in an

old-fashioned village

Los Alamos: 808.344-1300

TheVick.com

The Ballard InnCharming country bread and breakfast

in wine country near Santa Ynez

Ballard: 805.688.7770

BallardInn.com

RESTAURANTS

Hitching Post Restaurants, I & II

Real-deal Santa Maria-style BBQ and

worth the drive

Casmalia (the original!) 866.879.4088

HitchingPost1.com

Buellton: 805.688.0676

HitchingPost2.com

Ellen’s Danish Pancake House

Where the locals go to enjoy breakfast

anytime. Huge crepe-like pancakes to

twelve-egg omelets.

Buellton: 805.688.5312

272 Avenue of the Flags, Buellton

Far Western Tavern‘Home of the Famous Bull’s Eye Steak;’

authentic Santa Maria Valley red oak BBQ

Guadalupe: 805.343.2211

FarWesternTavern.com

Trattoria GrappoloCountry regional cuisine by Italian chefs:

Leonardo, Alfonso, and Giorgio Curti

Santa Ynez: 805.688.6899

TrattoriaGrappolo.com

INFORMATION

Santa Barbara County Vintners’ AssociationSanta Ynez: 805.688.0881

SBCountyWines.com

Our Santa Maria Valley & Sta. Rita Hills Picks

The Pavilion at Lotusland

PHOTO: J. Brew

‘Billy Goat’ Merlot grows in Solvang

PHOTO: Travis S. PH

OTO

: Reb

ecca

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Wine Regions multi, Wine & Jazz, Vint. 2 Trk 3, Melissa Chavez

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Transcript of Wine Regions multi, Wine & Jazz, Vint. 2 Trk 3, Melissa Chavez