Nor Cal Edition – Dec 30, 2011

8/3/2019 Nor Cal Edition Dec 30, 2011

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REE

CHARLES KRUGESTATE WINERY

PAGE 20

SONOMA VALLEYMARTINI MADNES

PAGE 19

NEW YEARS EVEAT LEDSON HOTEL

PAGE 24

COOMBSVILLE RECEIAVA DESIGNATION

PAGE 35

B.R. COHN WINERYPAGE 52

WINEMAKER PROFILE

HAHN SHL ESTATE

PAGE 67

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YOUR GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA WINE, THINGS TO DO & EVENTS www.WineCountryThisWeek.c

DECEMBER 30, 20

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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Charles Krug Winer

ON

THE

COVE

R

22

B. R. Cohn Winer

Fre WinesThe Complet

Wine ExperiencWithout the Alcoho


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D E C E M B E R 3 0 , 2 0 1 1 I S S U E 5 2 V O L U M E 3 0

ON THE COVERFre Alcohol Removed Wines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

SPECIAL COUPONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

WINE COUNTRY NEWSNorthern California Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Wineology by Len Napolitano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Wine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-18

WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

SUISUN VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Suisun Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35-45Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43

Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44-45St. Helena Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-59Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Healdsburg Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-59Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Sonoma Plaza Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Glen Ellen & Kenwood Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

TREASURE ISLAND TO LIVERMORE VALLEY . . . . . . . . . 60-61

Treasure Island Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Livermore Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62-63Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

NORTHERN CENTRAL COAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64-67Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . 64

Salinas Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-78

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | TABLE OF CONTENT


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

NAPA VALLEY

ANDRETTI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 5 BERINGER VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting in the Rhine House w/ad 31

BOUCHAINE 2 for 1 tasting with ad 25 BRANNAN COTTAGE INN Call for special rates 44 CALIFORNIA WINE TOURS Special price on tours and tastings 5 ETUDE WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 25 GOLDEN HAVEN Mud Treatment for 2, $54 per person 3 HAGAFEN CELLARS Free tasting for 2 with ad 4JESSUP CELLARS Complimentary tasting for two with ad 43 LOUIS M. MARTINI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 37 OLD FAITHFUL GEYSER $1 off with ad 45 PINK MANSION 15% off with ad at check-in 44

RAYMOND WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 6 REATA 2 for 1 tasting with ad 4 RUTHERFORD HILL WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad BACK PAGE

ST. CLEMENT WINERY2 for 1 tasting 7 ST. SUPRY2 for 1 tasting Monday-Thursday 7 STAGECOACH EXPRESS Complimentary shipping box 10 SUMMERS WINES 15% discount with ad 44 TASTE AT OXBOW Complimentary tasting 79 TURNBULL WINE CELLARS 2 for 1 tasting with ad 29 WILLIAM HILL 2 for 1 tasting with ad 33SONOMA COUNTY

ALDERBROOK WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 50 BALLETTO VINEYARDS Complimentary tasting with ad 49 CALIFORNIA WINE TOURS Special price on tours and tastings 5 CELLARS OF SONOMA 2 for 1 tasting with ad 47 CHATEAU ST. JEAN 2 for 1 tasting with ad 58 FERRARI-CARANO 2 for 1 Classic Wines tasting with ad 73 FRITZ WINERYMention ad for $5 off wine tasting 48 KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY2 for 1 Reserve Tasting with ad 19 LEDSON WINERY & VINEYARDS Mention ad for upgraded tasting 59 MARTIN RAY WINERY15% discount with ad 49 RODNEY STRONG Complimentary tasting/20% discount with ad 51 VIANSA WINERY2 for 1 tasting & 10% off purchase with ad 55BAY AREA: TREASURE ISLAND/LIVERMORE

BODEGA WINE ESTATES Complimentary tasting for 2 with ad 60 MacGRAIL VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting with ad 61NORTH CENTRAL COAST

HAHN WINERYComplimentary tasting for two with ad 66 VINE HILL $10 tasting fee waived with ad 66

*See individual ads for details.

Special Coupons


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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Decanting, the process of pouring red wine from its bottleinto a new vessel for the purpose of aeration or separation from

sediment hastens the mixing of air and wine and is usually a

good idea when serving finer wines. Besides the occasions when

you observe sediment in the bottle, the time to decant is when

you have an aromatic red wine that will get more expressive

when it is finally aerated.

Have you ever felt that in the course of going through a bottle

of red wine, or even in the course of finishing just one glass, that

the wine improves over a brief amount of time? Thats because it

is getting an opportunity to open up, or mix with air.

Some people believe that it is best to decant every red wine,

regardless of age or quality. This approach certainly does no

harm and in most cases will bring out the best in the wine

sooner. But most wines today are made to be consumed immedi-

ately, particularly in the price range up to $20 a bottle. For these

wines, aeration will probably not make a noticeable difference.

For finer red wines, with layers of complexity from fruit and

extended oak aging, decanting is a small extra step that will adnot only to the ceremony of wine enjoyment but will most lik

bring out all that the wine has to offer.

Many red wines of significant age, and some young ones, w

have a small amount of sediment at the bottom of the bottle, o

clinging to its side. This is usually a sign of an unfiltered wine

The sediment is simply the natural residue from tannin mole-

cules combining with color pigments in the wine over time an

settling at the base of the bottle. There is no harm in drinking

this residue, but it is not at all pleasant. The objective of

decanting is to enjoy the wine without tasting the harsh bitter

ness of the sediment.

To separate red wine from its sediment, just pour the wine

slowly into a decanter that has an extra wide, round bottom a

a long narrow neck, and stop pouring as soon as you see the

sediment entering the neck of the bottle. You should end up

with a few ounces of wine still in the bottle. The unique shape

the container will expose a large surface area of wine to air an

start the release of its fragrant aromas. Let it stand for at least

minutes before pouring into glasses.

Another way to aerate red wine before consuming it is to fi

the wine glass, or glasses, with wine in advance of drinking it.

This method works well when preparing to serve guests. If

youre setting a dinner table about 30 minutes to an hour inadvance of serving the food, just remember to fill the glasses

with wine at the same time.

Len Napolitano lives in San Luis Obispo 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 con

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

by Len Napolitano

When is it necessary to decant wine?


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by Jeffry Ross

The Skinny The Wine Garage is all about the juice. Its also about having funlike a kid in a candy store. The Wine Garage is, literally, a former gas station.

Todd, the wine buyer, travels far and wide to find top-shelf, affordably priced

wines. Inside, youll find more than 200 different labels neatly arranged in ca

on the floor and an engaging staff who are friendly, attentive and most impor

tantly, they know their wines.

Buzz Despite its funky space, the Wine Garage is a wine lovers best friend.Reminiscent of visiting your favorite record store (yes, kids, once upon a tim

thats where you had to buy your music), the fun is going through all the cas

and finding something youve never heard of. All the wines have been test

driven by the staff, so, whatever you select, you wont be disappointed.

Value Ultimately, the Wine Garage is about value. Its no secret that in NapaValley, its difficult to score a highly rated red for less than $65, but the Wine

Garage manages to do it all the time. The staff takes great pride hunting dow

unusual and lesser-known, limited-production wines and passing their haggl

finesse on to us.

Ten-second summary With the exception of Wine Garage labeled-awardwinning Cabernets, nothing in this hip hideaway is more than $25! The Wi

Garage is stocked with premium, small-lot wines that you wont find at BevM

Trader Joes or your local wine store (plus, they do a better job storing their

wines at the correct temperature).

Best bets In addition to all the labels the Wine Garage represents, they alsoproduce their own lip-smacking blends. My in-house favorites are: 2009 JoyRide (white blend), 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet, 2007 Napa Valley Petite

Syrah, 2008 Napa Valley Chihuahua Cabernet and 2006 Napa Valley Hside Cabernet.

Under-the-radar Go old-school with half-gallon jugs filled while you wait

using their specifically designed service station nozzles. Not only are the windelicious (and affordable), the jug is crazy fun conversation at the table. Its a

a cool gift.

Secrets For the next few weeks, receive an additional ten percent off thealready low prices when you purchase six bottles. Twenty percent on a case.

Better yet, the Wine Garage has the BEST wine club in the valley and they

ship just about everywhere.

Insider If youre a serious wino, get on the inside track for ultra exclusivedeals by hooking up with the Wine Garage on Twitter and Facebook (wine c

members get first crack to cream-of-the-crop finds).


WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY NEW

1

Quality Wines All Under $2at Wine Garage, Calistoga


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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

12 Look for us on Facebook and become a Fa

ONGOINGNapa Valley Wine Trainnapa, www.wa.m, 800-427-4124

D 31: nw Yas ev ta

ONGOINGTaste at Oxbow Wine and Chocolate Pairingnapa, tas 5 as w 5 ws, $20, 12-7pm Suday u tusday

12-9 pm fday ad Sauday. rsvas mmdd. 707-265-9600.ONGOING

Seminars & Tastings at Merryvale VineyardsS. ha, 10am-6:30pm, www.myva.m, 707-963-7777

Myva as, $15

rsv as, $35

W Ssy Sma, $45, fdays 12pm by app

W & cs exp, $45, by app

Smm gad rsv tas, $65, by app

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYSBarrel Tasting & Tours at ReataBa as: 11am, 2pm & by appm, tus by appm

napa, www.aaws.m, 707-254-8673x119

ONGOINGJefferson House Reserve Room Tasting

at Monticello Vineyards

napa, rsv W Sma, cy famy napa Vay $25rSVP 707-253-2802 x18, www.cyfamynapaVay.m

ONGOINGV. Sattui Winery

S. ha, 9am-6pm, app. ssay, www.vsau.m, 707-963-7774

cass as, day, $5

Pmum as, day, $10

fd & w pa, M-tu, $18

Asa a & w pa, Sa-Su, $25

iaa Makpa w 200+ ss

D w pa, sadws, abaks & m

Wkd BBQ, wd-d pzza, yss, mzzaa ba

2 as -sadd p uds

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYSFood & Wine Pairings at Etude Winery

napa, 10am, 1pm & 3pm, $35, $25/mmbs

www.udws.m, 707-257-5300

ONGOINGRombauer VineyardsS. ha, www.mbau.m, 707 963-5170

fday-Suday: op by adva appm y

Mday-tusday 10am-5pm

tas $10

W & cs Pa day by appm y, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $25

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD Winesrud, rSVP 800-487-7757, www.zdws.m

tada tas, $10, day 10am-4pm

Pm tas, $15, day 10am-4pm

Pva gup tas, $20, by app

ca tu & tas, $25, 1pm wkds & days, M-f by app

Vyad Vw tas, $40, Sa-Su 11am, M-f by app

Abaus tas, $600 4-6 pp, by app W ta, $180

ONGOINGTours and Tastingsat William Hill Estate Winerynapa, 10am-5pm, by app., www.wamsa.m, 707-265-3024

tas napa Vay, $12

tas Svad B, $20

esa exusvs, $25

i Wam h esa tu ad tas, $25

t Wam h esa exp tu ad tas, $40

ONGOINGVineyard & Winery Tours

at Raymond VineyardsS. ha, 11am (by app), $15, gup us avaab (by app)

www.aymdvyads.m, 800-525-2659x620

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti Winerynapa, www.adwy.m, 877-386-5070x227

idvdua tass, $15

Pva Wy tu & tas, $20/ps by appm

Vyad tus, $20/ps by appm

ONGOINGTasting at Grgich Hills Estaterud, 9:30am-4:30pm, tus a 11am & 2pm, $10

W bay as/$30, Ba as ms fdays 2-4pm

www..m, 707-963-2784

ONGOINGTastings & Tours at Artesa Winerynapa, rSVP, 877-224-8309, www.asawy.m

V Qus, W & cs exp, $40

Day gudd tus

Vs & Ws, A Vyad tu, $40

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at Black Stallion Winerynapa, 10am-5pm, www.baksawy.m, 707-253-1400

rua as, $10

rsv as, $35, Sa-Su

Asa s adda $7.50/ps

ONGOINGEducational Tours & Wine Tastingat Castello di Amorosacasa, www.asdamsa.m, rSVP 707-967-6272

rua u & as, $25-$40 rsv u & as, $35-$50

tas y, $10-$25 Y u adu us, $1 5-$ 20 napa Vay nb Pam Pva ViP us

ONGOINGTastings & Seminars at St. Supryrud, www.ssupy.m, 800-231-6116

W & cs Pa Smas, 11am, aa Saudays

ca Pa, 11am, aa Saudays

cab lbay tas, 11am, aa Saudays

W 101 a S. Supy, 11am, Sudays

ONGOINGWine Tasting Experiences at Benessere VineyardsS. ha, www.bssvyads.m, by app 707-963-5853x105

Psazd W fs, day, $10

Vyads Wak tu & tas, M-W, 10:30am, $15

fud Pa exp, Su, 10:30am, $15

Ba tas, rSVP, tus, Sa-Su, 11am, $20

Ba tas & cu ras, tus, Sa-Su, 11am, $25

Ba tas & Va, tus, Sa-Su, 11am, $25 gup tas, Sa-Su, 1:30pm, $15

ONGOINGJoseph Phelps Vineyards: Tastings & SeminarsA ppuy papa a wd a x smas. 1

11am day; 2:30pm, Mday-fday & 2pm, Sauday & Suday. $40, x

isa Bd/$60, /w ub mmbs. ta ass day, $2

rSVP, 707-967-3720, das www.jpvws.m

isa Bd W Ama ca

S Vyad cabs fs & Pps

Ba sma

ONGOING

Tours & Tastings at Clos du Valnapa, day 10am-5pm, www.sduva.m, 800-993-9463

cass ass, $10: wavd w puas a b w.

rsv ass, $20: wavd w puas a b w

tus by appm w 24 u adva

ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSCooking Demonstrations at The DeBaun TheatreS. ha, cuay isu Ama a gys, 1:30-2:30pm, $20

W a samp p ad gys w

[email protected], www.a.du, 707-967-2320

ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi Wineryf das, www.bmdav.m, 888-rMonDAVi x2 t Sa u tu & tas t W tas Bass t exus v ca tas t as Byd Bas t havs Jy tu & lu

ONGOINGVIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory TourBuassa Vyads, napa, M-f by appm, $15 md-wk spa

M s s, www.buassavyads.m, 800-499-2366

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado Vineyardsnapa, www.svadvyads.m, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770x611

Saddbk Vyad tas, $75

lbay tas, $75

Day tas rm fs, esa/$10, Pm/$20

Pub tus & tas, 10:30am & 2:30pm, $15

Pva tu ad tas, 15-25 uss, $20/u, $25/u & as

THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTHBacchus That Rascalcs Pas, casa, , 2pm, Mu-mda psa hsy W

www.spas.m, 707-942-4981

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Napa Riverwalk with Historian George Webber2 u u w as & d w napa, 10am, $20, 707-251-8500

SECOND SUNDAYSSecond Sunday Supper ClubAViA napa, napa, 5:30-7pm, $110

www.avas.m, 707-224-3900

ONGOINGNapa Valley Opera House1030 Ma S, napa, www.v., 707-226-7372

D 27: tusday n fks, Yak Dd Dady

Ja 3: Sdm S cma, t Way Bak

Ja 6: ry rs

Ja 10: Ma Pak

Ja 15: Mux ru

Ja 18: Baus av Ma Du

Ja 23: rbb fd

Ja 24: tusday n fks, Spbud

Ja 25: iaa gua n Ja 26: A ev w e Js

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daily: Vally firs tour

Daily: gri hills esa Wiry tour

fri-Su: Domai cado Wiry tour

Sa: Vallys oly evi Wiry tour

Mo-tu: Ambassador Wiry tour

D 31: nw Yars ev trai


13/801www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT

ONGOINGLive at the Lincoln TheaterYuv, www.a.m, 707-944-9900

ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back Room Winesnapa, 5-9pm, www.bakmws.m, 707-226-1378

D 30: nw Yas Spak Ws tas

Ja 27: Bak rm Bw ou XlV

ONGOING

di Rosanapa, www.dsapsv., 707-226-5991

o u fb 18: lk a Yu lk a M

ONGOINGLive at Uptown Theatrenapa, www.upwaapa.m, 707-259-0123

D 31: ozma

Ja 15: DeVo

Ja 20: luda Wams

Ja 27: Ms

Ja 28: tm fay & t lua f

fb 10: ls ly Bys

ONGOING FRIDAYSFriday Night Pulse TastingsAcMe f Ws, S.ha, 5-7pm, www.amws.m, 888-963-0440

ONGOING

Friday Night Winemaker Events

JV W & Sps, napa, 5-7pm, $2, www.jvw.m, 707-253-2624

D 30: n tas Du hdays

ONGOING WEEKDAYS THROUGH JANUARY 6 (EXCEPT TUESDAYS)

Story Time

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 11am

www.apavaymusum., 707-944-0500

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 16Napa on Ice Outdoor Skating Rink

2d & cmbs S, napa

$12/uds ska a. www.apa.m.

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 29

Dreams of Toyland

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 10am-5pm



Napa Valley: The People and the Landscapes

V Ba Papy exb

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 10am-5pm


ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 3

Calistogas Winter in the Wineries

Vs 15 casa ws s passp pam. $50

www.casaVss.m, 707-942-6333

ONGOING THROUGH MARCH 30

Abstract Visions,

A Brett Weston Retrospective at Turnbu

tubu W cas, oakv, A mpsv xb ba

100 bday. www.tubuWs.m, 707-963-5839x15

DECEMBER 31

New Years Eve Dinner

Dma cad, Yuv, 6pm

www.ad.m, 707-944-2280

JANUARY 13-15

2nd Annual Napa Truffle Festival

Ws Vasa, napa, www.apausva.m, 888-360-8618

JANUARY 14

Family Fun Day: Celebration of Chinese New Year

Mak Da Pap las

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 2-4pm, $5



14/8014 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

JANUARY 20An Evening with the Artist: Vi Bottaronapa Vay Musum, Yuv, 5:30-7:30pm


JANUARY 21-22Cooking Classes: Robbie Burns Weekendcda gabs i, napa

www.daabs.m, 707-224-7969

JANUARY 28

V. Sattui Barrel Tasting PartyS. ha, www.vsau.m, 707-963-7774

JANUARY 28Cooking Classes: Cooking the New Year Awaycda gabs i, napa, 4-8pm, $160

www.daabs.m, 707-224-7969

JANUARY 28Exploring and Capturing Light on the LandscapePapy Wksp w V Ba

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 2pm


ONGOING

Live Music at Centre du Vinlds h, Sma

www.ds.m, 707-996-9779

ONGOINGPrivate Tastings at Viansa

www.vasa.m, 800-995-7470

iaa W & cs Pa,10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm,

$10/mmbs, $25

rsv W & fd Pa, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm

/mmbs, $45

ONGOINGReserve Wine & Food Pairing

Private Tasting at Viansa

Sma, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm

www.vasa.m, 800-995-7470, /mmbs, $45

ONGOING

Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar IntroducesThematic Wine Programh a a w maks. Pus, a tusday, 6:30-8pm by w-

ds. t ld a Sma, rSVP, www.dasma.m, 707-931-2042

ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshop

at B.R. Cohn Winery

g e, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/mmbs

www.b.m, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tasting

at B.R. Cohn Winery

g e, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/mmbs

www.b.m, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOING

Private Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery

hadsbu Pk Bu v ws, 6-8 pp, $20-$40pp

by appm, www.a-aa.m, 707-433-6700

Sms ts yu Sm Mmy

W W lvs ws pad w Asa ss

K rds ws pad w dd us ad as

Mamak w ad d pa

PVa tas ws pad w Asa cau pa

cab t tas mpas ws m d vas

ONGOING FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSTaste with the Count at Buena Vista

A 45-mu u ad w as, 11am & 12:30pm, $20

A 90-mu tas w cu w rsv Bua Vsa ws

cus la by cu. 2pm, $45, rSVP, 800-926-1266

ONGOINGWine and Food Pairingat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu Mamak, a a ad s ma ws w

p d. 6-8 pp, $35pp, by appm

www.a-aa.m, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGFree Guided Winery Tour

at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu Mday-Sauday, 10am, by appm

www.a-aa.m, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGGroup Private Tastings

at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu iuds 5 ws, 9-25 pp udud a, by

appm. $20 p ps, www.a-aa.m, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGTerroir & History Tour at Chateau St. JeanKwd, A vs caau S. Ja s a yu sss.

cmpmay, 11am-2pm, www.aausja.m, 707-833-4134

ONGOINGFood and Wine Pairing at the Mayo Reserve Room9200 Sma hwy, Kwd, Day, 10:30am-6pm, 7 us d/w as

$35, rsvas mmdd, www.mayamywy.m, 707-833-5504

ONGOING

Wine Experiences at Chateau St. JeanKwd, t ps mmum, 2 us, $50, by appm

www.aausja.m, 707-833-4134x5258

cq cpas Bd Sma, e ps mmum, 2 us, $75

cq cpas cmp tas, e ps mmum, 1.5 us, $25

Pva ViP W tas, 10:30am, 1 & 3pm, $25, 1 u

Bx lu Pam w tu

ONGOINGTours, Tastings & Seminars

at St. Francis WinerySaa rsa, t ps mmum, ca m ma & svas

888-675-Wine(9463)x255, www.saswy.m

Wy tu & tas, 1.5 us, $25

Vyads tu & tas, 1 u, $20

Bd Sma, 1.5 u, $65

ONGOING

Guided Winery Tours at Gloria FerrerSma, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $10, www.a.m, 707-996-7256

ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-Jacksonfu, Spa sv d & w as, 10am-4pm, $25

www.kj.m, 707-571-7500

ONGOING SUNDAYSDomaine Carneros Sparkling Brunch

at the Fairmont Mission Inn & SpaSma, 9am-1pm, www.am.m.sma, 707-938-9000

ONGOING SUNDAYSSunday Brunch at the Centre du Vin

lds h, Sma, 9am-1pm

www.ds.m, 707-996-9779

ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz Winerycvda, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 as vs pawww.zwy.m, 707-894-3389

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH50 Mile AV Vintner's Diningg e, Ba as & od V P n & Syas m As Vyad.

fds sud ay. 4-7PM, asws. m, rSVP, 707-935-3456

ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at AnabaSma, ejy mpmay s & aks pa w yu w

as. 4-5:30pm, www.aabaws.m, 707-996-4188

ONGOING THURSDAY SUNDAYUnique Food & Wine Pairings

at HKG Tasting Roomg e, 12-6pm, www.pkwy.m, 707-938-7622

ONGOINGMoondance Cellars & Orchard Station Wing e, Pad w W cuy cas tu tass, $10

www.mdaas.m, 707-938-7550

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYMichel-Schlumberger Winery Green Tourhadsbu, 10:30am, $25, www.msumb.m, 800-447-306

ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours

& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape Gondolagysv, 11:30am, $10, bx u pvdd $20www.yw.m, 707-431-4811

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSCome Crush With Us at Icaria Creek WineryWmak J Sm ads a as bd & bad ws

www.aawy.m, rSVP, 707-486-9623

EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAYSanta Rosa Original Farmers MarketSaa rsa Vas Bud pak , 8:30am-, 707-522-8629

EVERY FRIDAY MORNINGSonoma Valley Farmers MarketDp Pak, Sma, 9am-, 707-538-7023

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAYThe Art of Winemaking WorkshopP Vyads, Sma, 10:30am-12pm

www.pvyads.m, 707-935-8311ONGOING

Cooking Classes at Ramekins Culinary School450 Ws Spa S, Sma, ck wbs sdu.

www.amks.m, 707-933-0450

ONGOINGWells Fargo Center for the ArtsSaa rsa, wsaas., 707-546-3600

Ja 6: gadys K

Ja 7: Mybuss

Ja 8: lay K

Ja 11: fd gab iaab ta

Ja 14: Ja rvs

Ja 15: J edwads Psy Mdum

Ja 21-23: Saa rsa Sympy S fu

Ja 24: t nw Saa cus

Ja 27: Mk Bba

ONGOINGSpreckels Performing Arts Centerr Pak, 707-588-3400, www.spks.m, 707-588-3400

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernSbasp, www.pmk.m, 707-829-7300

D 28: t B fa Ya ed Kss o cmdy Sw

D 29: Juk J Vay Busqu S

D 31: P Ma's Wsky

Ja 5: Pau tmmma & Dm

Ja 6: es Ba

Ja 7: Jy Dw

Ja 12: Ps Ambassad & Bu

Ja 13: Wdbad 5

Ja 14: D's Umba

Ja 21: AlBino!

ONGOING THURSDAYSWinemaker Thursday Series at Big Bottom Marketguv, 6-8pm, www.bbmmak.m, 707-604-7295

ONGOING SATURDAYSSwirl, Sniff & Sip (aka Wine 101)B 3 W Ba, fam Sma Mss i & Spa, Sma

10-10:45am, www.am.m/sma, 707-938-900

ONGOING SATURDAYSHarvest Concert Seriesladmak Wy, Kwd, 1-4pm

www.admakw.m, 707-833-0053

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 8Gabrielle Teschner Exhibit: Nothing et al.Va Ma lambx Wy, hadsbu, 11am-5pm

www.vmw.m, 707-431-4404

SONOMA COUNTY


15/801Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan!



Minutely Personal

Qua gay, Duas Ms, www.Qua-gay.m, 707-865-0243


Ann Hollister Exhibit at Charles Creek Winery

Sma, 11am-6pm, www.ask.m, 707-935-3848


Estate Olive Oil, Vinegar & Wine Tasting at

B.R. Cohn Winery

ov Sas Sma Vay, 11am-5pm

g e, www.b.m, 707-931-7923


Tour & Taste at The Olive Press

ov Sas Sma Vay

Sma, www.vpss.m, 707-939-8900


Artisan Olive Oil Tasting

ov Sas Sma Vay

fs caa, Kwd

www.v.m, 707-938-3164

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28Olive Trees in Sonoma State Historic Parkov Sas Sma Vay

Sma Mss, Sma, www.paks.a.v, 707-939-9560

ONGOING THROUGH EARLY SPRING 201216th Annual Sculpture Exhibit FINALEat Paradise Ridge Wineryt Supu v a b s u dusk, wd by a ass w

wys vada, w s spaua vw sus. 11am-5pm, day

www.pwy.m, 707-528-WineDECEMBER 26-31

Big Bottles for Big Occasions at Chateau St. Jean

Kwd, 10am-5pm

www.aausja.m, 800-543-7572

DECEMBER 26-31Celebrate the Last Days of DecemberMaazas ck Wy, Saa rsa, 10am-4:30pm

www.maazask.m, 800-590-6464

DECEMBER 31New Year's Eve at

Centre du Vin: Jess Petty Duo

lds h, Sma, 9pm-md

www.ds.m, 707-996-9779

JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 12Olive Oil Tasting at Ledson Winery

ov Sas Sma Vay

Kwd, www.dswy.m, 707-833-2330

JANUARY 5Backstreet Cultural Museum Non Profit DayW & cs rp, 6-8pm

epua c, Sma

www.pua.m, 707-935-7960

THURSDAYS SUNDAYS JANUARY 6-22The 39 Steps 6th Street PlayhouseSaa rsa, 707-523-4185

www.6spayus.m

JANUARY 6Artist Reception with Kareem Assabepua c, Sma, 6-8pm

www.pua.m, 707-935-7960

JANUARY 8Three Kings Day at Gloria Ferrer

Sma, 4-5pm, $10, ud 10/, www.a.m, 707-933-199

JANUARY 8Dream Day Bridal ShowDub h, r Pak, 11am-4pm, 707-579-5886


16/80


17/80

Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 1


MARIN COUNTY

ONGOINGMarin Center in San Rafaelwww..ma.a.us, 415-499-6800

D 31: Bs Sa fas cmdy cmp

Ja 7: lv2Da, Mx i Mw

Ja 9, 12: Ma Spak Ss, rad haass

Ja 14-15: Bay Aa Wd gua Sw

Ja 21: Bay A evma edua fa

Ja 21-22: rc Da o Sa Ja 27-29: gm fa

Ja 29, 31: Ma Sympy, Yuu Ba

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

ONGOINGTasting Room TuesdaysSaa cuz Muas Wws Assa, t fam Sa Js, Sa Js

Wy psav w pu & b avaab v ak. 5-7pm

www.am.m, www.smwa.m, 800-441-1414, 831-685-8463

JANUARY 7-8Wedding Faire & SymposiumSaa caa cv c, Saa caa

10am-4pm, $15, $12/adv, www.wdd-a.m

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

ONGOING

Tastings at PrimaWau ck, www.pmv.m, 925-735-7780

f: 5:30-7pm, $20, $10/mmbs

Sa: 3-5pm, $20, $10/mmbs

DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Wine Pairing, Dinner & Dancinghaa n Vyads, Bwd, $125

www.vws.m, 925-240-2463

LIVERMORE

ONGOINGBankhead Theatrelvm Vay Pm As c, lvm

www.vmpmas., 925-373-6800

D 30: B fa Kss o XiX

D 31: nYe: fas cada

Ja13: g Ws

Ja 14: B Bad Vd Daddy

Ja 21-22, 27-29: A

Ja 24: iaa gua n

ONGOINGWine Cave Tasting ExperienceW Vyads, lvm, 4pm Sa/Su, $10, $5/w ub mmbs

rSVP, www.wvyads.m/avs, 925-456-2405

ONGOING THURSDAY - SUNDAYWine & Cheese Pairingla r Wy, lvm, 12-4:30pm

www.lrW.m, 925-243-6442

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 26Printmaking by Edmee Keeleesa Wy tas rm, W Vyads, lvm

www.wvyads.m, 925-456-2305

JANUARY 28-29Soup & Wine SOUPerbowl Weekendfsa Wy, lvm, 12-5pm

www.sawy.m, 925-447-5246

ONGOINGSunset Cultural Center-Carmelcam, www.sus.m, 831-620-2048

Ja 14: t Ks t

Ja 20: t Pk Abas

Ja 22: c 3: cassus gud iba & r

Ja 29: isa camb Pj

fb 2: Psva ha Jazz Bad

ONGOINGLive at Golden State TheatreMy, www.dsaa.m, 831-372-3800

fb 23: Ba Maa pss hd Pa

ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH DECEMBER 30

Fromage Friday at Taste Morgant cssads cam ejy a spa s samp w yu as

Ma & l famy fam ws. 3-5pm

www.mawy.m, 831-626-3700

ONGOINGLive Music at KRML Radiot easwd Bud, cam, www.kmad.m, 831-624-6432

ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYSSweet Thursdays at Cannery RowMy, famy u, mus, d & a dsus, 4-8pm

831-649-6690

ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYSMonterey Museum of ArtMy, ev mus, w ad s d'uvs, 5-7pm, 831-372-5477

EVERY THIRD WEEKEND OF THE MONTHPair Your Wine with Ice Cream at Kirigin Cellarsgy, Pa yu mpmay w as w a V d Ma i

cam Suda! Ad sk a 30% 6 b puass & 50% ass.

www..kas.m, 408-847-8827

EVERY TUESDAYFocus on Monterey County Winescpa W Ba, ra cas, cam, 3-8pm

www.aas.m, 831-625-5646

EVERY WEDNESDAYWine Down Wednesdaysf Wy, gy, 5-8pm, , www.wy.m, 408-842-3305

DECEMBER 28 - JANUARY 8Buddy Holly Tribute ConcertPa rpy ta, www.pap.

gd Bu, cam, 831-622-0100

DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Celebrationi a Spas Bay, Pbb Ba

www.pbbba.m

JANUARY 14Barrel Tastings & Futures Open Housecaau Ju W esa, cam Vay, 11am-4pm

$15, mmbs/, www.aauju.m, 831-624-2600

JANUARY 15Surf City Wine University:

Bordeaux Wines with Mikael WarginMJA Vyads, Saa cuz, 12-2pm

www.suyvs.m, 831-818-1405

JANUARY 21Winter Passport Day

Saa cuz Muas Wws Assa

Vs papa ws! 11am-5pm, $40

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

JANUARY 22

Wine & Crab Taste-OffSaa cuz Muas Wws Assa

Vs papa sauas! 2-5pm, $49

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

ONGOINGThursday Night Music SeriesBa Wy, Squ, ejy mus, d & Ba w! 6-8pm

www.ba.m, 831-475-2258x11

JANUARY 21Winter Passport Day

Saa cuz Muas Wws Assa

Vs papa ws! 11am-5pm, $40

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

ONGOINGSierra Railroadoakda, www.saaad.m, 209-848-2100

D 31: nw Yas ev expss

Ja 21: Sauday n D

ONGOINGChefs Holidayst Awa, Ysm naa Pak

www.YsmPak.m/cs, 801-559-4903

Ja 8-10: Sss 1

Ja 11-12: Sss 2

Ja 15-17: Sss 3

Ja 18-19: Sss 4

Ja 22-24: Sss 5

Ja 25-26: Sss 6

Ja 29-31: Sss 7, A cabav D t M Bav tVs tp c

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

ONGOINGSacramento River Trainwww.saamva.m, 800-866-1690

D 31: Sus D w Mus

D 31: nw Yas ev expss

ONGOINGMondavi Center for the Performing ArtsU.c. Davs, www.mdavas., 866-754-ArtS Ja 5: Sa fas Sympy

Ja 9: Pa

Ja 14-15: Ax Ky, v & hda hua, pa

Ja 19-20: Sdad Ba & n fama

Ja 25-26: Ad rduz t

Ja 27: rya Pam osa

Ja 29: Axad S Qua

Ja 30: tsa

SUISUN VALLEY

ONGOING SATURDAYS$5 Wines by the GlassWawk Wy, fad W & mpmay pzza 1-6pmlv mus 2-5pm, www.wawkwy.m, 707-428-6977

D 31: Av ad hs A Sa Bad Ja 7: t lw Dw Dy Ds

Ja 14: t ty Ss Bad

DECEMBER 26-27SVVGA Anniversary CelebrationSusu Vay Vs & gws Assa

Vs papa ws! 12-5pm

www.susuvayws.m, 707-864-0730

NORTH CENTRAL COAST

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

SOLANO COUNTY

Check the website for more eventswww.winecountrythisweek.com

Email Your Events [email protected]

for bs rsuls, snd your mails a las 6 o 8

wks prior o h da o your vn. evn lising

ar r, and publishd as spa is availabl and a

h disrion o Win counry this Wk.


18/80


19/80 1www.WineCountryThisWeek.com


Top Sonoma Valley Restaurants/Bartenders

Vie to Create Best New MartiniSaddles Restaurant at MacArthur Place will host the Sonoma

Valley Olive Seasons ever-popular Martini Madness event on Friday,

January 13 from 5 to 7 p.m., sponsored by Skyy Vodka. Visitors and

locals can see master martini makers in action, sample their creations

and vote for the best-mixed martini.

Bartenders from Sonoma Valleys top restaurants and bars will

present their best martini blends at this olive-inspired affair that also

includes live music and delicious appetizers. Participating restaurants

and bars include: Saddles Steakhouse, the girl & the fig, El Dorado

Kitchen, Maya Restaurant, ESTATE, Sonoma Meritge Martini Oyster

Bar & Grill, Sant Restaurant at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn,

Marys Pizza Shack and Murphys Irish Pub.Saddles Steakhouse at MacArthur Place Inn & Spa is located at 29

East MacArthur Street in Sonoma.

Martini Package tickets are $40 per person ($45 at the door if

available); Dinner Package tickets are $85 and include Martini

Madness plus a three-course dinner at Saddles (excludes gratuity).

Also available is the Martini Madness MacArthur Place lodging

package, which offers overnight accommodations at the hotel

$199 for a Guestroom or $299 for a Suite. (Room tax and MarMadness tickets not included).

To purchase tickets in advance, visit www.olivefestival.co

Tickets are also available online at www.macarthurplace.com. C

on the Dining tab.

Season of the Olive favorites slated to return this season incluthe highly-anticipated Feast of the Olive Dinner on January 28

Ramekins Culinary School. This multi-course, olive-inspired cemonial dinner prepared by Sonoma Valleys finest chefs, is one of

Seasons anchor events and is a food-lovers paradise. Then, fr

February 17-20, the Season of the Olive will culminate with Olive Season Finale Weekend, a magnificent celebration of spe

events, dinners and tastings, including VinOlivo, an evenepicurean showcase that includes live entertainment and Sonoma Valley Marketplace; and Olive Odyssey, a two-day af

held at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, where olive expert Don Landis olive curers from all over California convene to offer samp

recipes, lessons and delicious olive-themed food and wine pairin

For a comprehensive calendar of Season of the Olive events, vthe official website at www.olivefestival.com.

The Sonoma Valley Olive Season Celebrate11th Annual Martini Madness on January 13


20/8020 Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

by Karin Argoud

The destination of choice this winter isThe Kendall-Jackson Wine Center, locatedjust north of Santa Rosa, in the heart of

Sonoma County. Spending a day at theeducation and tasting center for Kendall-Jackson Wine Estates is like going on a

getaway to a gorgeous chateau in the winecountry of Bordeaux, but you dont have tobuy an expensive plane ticket to get there,and you get to eat and drink your waythrough an amazing educational experience.Plan on spending quite some time at thislovely winery, where all of your senses will bedelighted. There is so much to do and see.Start your educational experience in thethree-acre organic demonstration gardens.These beautiful, bountiful gardens reflect theheartfelt commitment by KJ, to teachingpeople about food and wine pairing.

The White Wine and Red Wine Sensory

Gardens is an amazing kind of living labora-tory, where visitors can explore new flavors.See, smell and taste the different vegetables,herbs, fruits and flowers that make up thewine tasting descriptors. The gardens alsoinclude vegetable trials and a medicinal herbgarden. Many of the varieties planted here areheirloom plants and KJ participates in seedsaving and the exchange of seeds with otherHeirloom growers. Garden Tours are offereddaily at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. (weatherpermitting). Private garden tours and wine

tastings are available for groups of 10 or moreat $10-$20 per person.

After a stroll in the gardens, its time tohave a classic wine country culinary experi-ence. The Kendall-Jackson Food & WinePairings is not to miss! The wines are sensual,the presentation elegant, and the pairing,impressive. Take your pick of three excep-tional tastings: The Wine & Cheese Pairing,The Wine & Dessert Pairing, and the Reserve Wine & Food Pairing. The crme de lacrme? The Reserve Wine & Food Pairing!Kendall-Jackson Executive Chef Justin Wangler has created a visually sensual andgastronomically sumptuous, seven coursepairing, focusing on the winerys small-production, limited release wines. The wintermenu is heavenly!

The rich Lobster-Pumpkin Bisque comple-mented by the creamy 2009 Grand ReserveChardonnay is a stellar start!

Next up is the 2010 Vintners Reserve Ries-

ling combined with a Buckwheat Crepe withProsciutto, House-made Apple-Pear Butter &Bellwether Farms Carmody Cheese. The localcheese is melted, along with grilled greenonions and prosciutto, and creates a creamyalmost quesadilla-like concoction which playsin perfect harmony with this crisp Riesling.

Then comes a wonderfully earthy 2007Highland Estates Seco Highlands Pinot Noirthat creates a symphony of flavors with thesucculent Seared Trumpet Royale Mushroomswith Fried-Shallots.

A yummy Sweet Tea Brined Niman RanPork Belly Slider with Syrah BBQ Sabrings out the beautiful long finish of a 20Highland Estates Alisos Hills Syrah.

Not to be missed is the 2005 HighlaEstates Trace Ridge Cabernet Sauvignpaired to perfection with the incredtender Cabernet Braised Short Ribs. The sfrom savory to sweet comes in the last tdelectable dishes.

Spiced Carrot Cake with Ginger Foam wa complex 2008 Late Harvest Riesling, afinally, homemade Caramel Corn paired wthe lush 2007 Late Harvest Chardonnay. Wincredible indulgence for only $30 per per($35 per person for groups of six or moClub members get 25% off on all pairings.

Looking for a little lighter fare? Try Wine & Cheese Pairing of Artisan Chefrom Sonoma and Marin counties with sixKendall-Jacksons food-friendly wines. Efarmstead cheese and created accompa

ments from the estate culinary gardenpaired with a different wine that enhances compliments its flavor and texture to prova perfect balance. Cost is $25 per person ($per person for groups of six or more).

The Wine & Dessert Pairing makes fofantastic finale, or just satisfies your swtooth. Enjoy five unique dessert wines paiwith seasonally-focused sweet bites in unique dessert-focused tasting flight. Cos$20 per person ($25 per person for groupsix or more)

Kendall-Jackson Wine Center


21/802Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan!

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR

With advance notice, mostdietary restrictions and food aller-gies, including vegetarian/ veganand gluten-free, can be accommo-dated. To make an appointment,call (707) 576-3810.

For those who want to only

indulge in a favorite Kendall-Jackson wine, enjoy the Classic

Tasting, which offers speciallimited-production and small-lotreleases available only direct fromthe winery. For more than 20years in a row, the Kendall-

Jacksons Vintners ReserveChardonnay remains Americasfavorite Chardonnay. The cost isonly $5 per person and compli-mentary for club members plus

three guests. For only $10 moreupgrade to the Reserve Tasting,which includes four limitedreserve releases from the HighlandEstates series and Stature releases,when available. Check out thewebsite and get a complimentarytasting for two coupon, good onthe Classic Tasting at the Kendall-Jackson Wine Center located at

5007 Fulton Road, Fulton, openfrom 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

By the way, see the President

of Kendall-Jackson, Rick Tigner,appear as one of the next bossesto go undercover during theupcoming season of the EmmyAward-nominated reality series,

Undercover Boss. In responseto his doing the show, Tignersays, This company was built onJess Jacksons passionate commit-ment to quality, so it was impor-tant for me to make sure we arecontinuing the work Jess started

by building on the family legacyof quality, taste and unparalleledwinemaking. The episode willair Sunday, January 29, (checklocal listings). To celebrate,through the month of January, acomplimentary Undercover Bossbite will be offered to everyguest who does a tasting at theWine Center. Call for more infor-mation 1-866-287-9818 or [email protected].


22/80


WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

22

by Josh Stein

Fre Wines, Americas largest and best-selling producer of alcoh

removed wines, is celebrating twenty years of safe driving a

thoughtful entertaining unseparated from grown-up tastes. Indeed,

idea behind the releases has always been about fun times a

connecting people through enjoyment: One thing about wine is

way that it brings people together. It tends to create experiences.

wines allow for sophisticated and festive drinks for all social events

The philosophy behind Fre has been designed in accordance w

the principle to provide those who cannot imbibe sixty-seven milldesignated drivers, pregnant women, athletes or those who socia

without alcohol for medical, religious or cultural reasons with wi

that let them enjoy themselves even without the alcohol. Some mi

think that in making this change, the taste must go with, but given

producers long history of providing wines consumers actually w

and enjoy, the Fre line of wines simply continues what people h

come to expect, meaning not sacrificing flavor in the glass, and they

done so by not treating the alcohol removal as a batch indust

process. Rather, on a barrel-by-barrel basis, each small lot of wine

produced, guaranteeing a product far different from anything else

the market. No water is used in this process, either what you get

the flavors and aromas from the vine absent just one of the product

fermentation.

The process by which the wines are produced came originally fr

Australia and is known as the the spinning cone. Fed into the top

a long, thirteen-foot column and then flowing over a series of spinn

and stationary cones, centrifigal force spreads the wine out into a t

liquid film, which then comes into contact with nitrogen gas from

bottom of the cone. The aroma and flavor compound are protected

way while the alcohol itself is removed, creating fruity, flavor-fil

finished wines.

The resulting award-winning releases provide a range of optio

drawing as they do on more than 7,000 acres of California vineyarVarietally, there is a light, crisp Chardonnay; a soft, red-fruited Mer

and a lively, fruity White Zinfandel. For those who like blends,

Premium Red offers oaky black fruits while the Premium White gi

tropical citrus in the glass. Knowing that bubbles make all occasio

special, there is also a sparkler a refreshing Brut made with the tra

tional blend. Fre Alcohol Removed Wines are available for complem

tary tasting at the historic Sutter Home tasting room, the Trinchero N

Valley tasting room, and the Folie a Deux & Napa Cellars tasting roo

Thanks to Fre Wines, designated drivers can still enjoy the comp

wine experience but without effects of alcohol.

Fre WinesThe Complete Wine Experience

Without the Alcohol

Fre Alcohol Removed Wines are

available for complementary tasting

at the historic Sutter Home tasting room,

the Trinchero Napa Valley tasting room,

and the Folie a Deux & Napa Cellars

tasting room.


23/80


24/8024 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT


The Centre du Vin at the Ledson Hotel is hosting a New Years Eve

Special. Spend New Years Eve on Sonomas historic plaza at the Centre

du Vin for dinner, live music and of course, dancing. The renowned

Jess Petty Duo will help bring in the New Year with no cover charge.

In addition to the full menu, Centre du Vin will be offering a NewYears Eve dinner special of garlic and rosemary prime rib served with

baked potato, seasonal vegetables, aus jus and horseradish cream.

The hotel hours on New Years Eve will be:

Lunch and Wine Tasting from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Dinner from 5:30 until 10:30 p.m.

Jess Petty Duo from 9 p.m. until midnight

The hotel hours on New Years Day will be:

Brunch from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Full Menu from 2 until 8 p.m.

Jess Petty plays trumpet and fluglehorn, and sings in a strong jazz

vocal style that is his own, and is considered a world-class musician.

He began his musical career in the Monterey Bay area, gigging with

other musicians, and studying with Bud Clooney, a great trumpeter

with the Harry James band. He was the featured singer with the

Hamilton Air Force Band, and shortly became the featured singer with

the prestigious Airmen Of Note in Washington, D.C. After discharge,

he headed his own groups, playing Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and other

venues. He has worked with Madeline Eastman, Terry Henry, Rex

Allen and the late Bob Lucas, to name a few.

The Ledson Hotel is located on the historic Sonoma Plaza, 480 F

Street East. When it opened in 2004 the hotel made the Conde N

Traveler 2004 Hot List: One of the 100 hottest new hotels around

globe, one of the top 18 hotels in the US, and one of the o

tw o hote ls in Cal i forn ia . For more in formation , go

www.ledsonhotel.com or call (707) 996-9779.

Centre du Vin New Years Eve Dinner, Wine Specia


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2


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www.WineCountryThisWeek.co


26

by Josh Stein

How do you help those who have helped you to succeed in the

wine business? Well, if youre August Joe Briggs, when you decide

to move on from the wine business into some well-deserved relax-

ation with your wife, you do so by letting your nephew, Jesse Inman,

and three key, longtime employees, Colette Milliman, Lisa Salling and

Matt Gacso, buy the business. Joe got his start like a lot of others in

the Napa Valley: armed with a degree in enology from Fresno State,

he started by working for others as a consulting winemaker before

striking out on his own. In 1995, he produced his first wines under

his own label, and in 2002, he took the leap of faith to buy the land

for the winerys first location on the Silverado Trail. At the end of

2010, Generation Two took over, relocating the tasting room in the

process.

The winerys philosophy was very simple but definitely against the

norm at the time: find the best grapes in the best vineyards in Napaand Sonoma and make the best wines possible from them and not

just the usual suspects, either. Joe determinedly sought out unusual

but terrific varieties, making a name for his seldom-seen-elsewhere

Charbono along the way. Today, these ideas are well represented

throughout the North Coast, but two decades ago, they most definitely

were not. The belief was that unless you owned it, you couldnt make

the best wine from it, and if it was not one of three or four varieties,

why make it? Clearly, neither need be the case nor in the recipe for

success since August Briggs has seen loads of accolades for its rare

bottlings of Pinot Meunier, Petite Sirah, Syrah and the Wishes red

blend all available either only in the tasting room and/or to c

members.

The August Briggs brand was built by focusing on restaura

where a single-vineyard approach to food-friendly varietals was w

received and appreciated for its cuisine-matching ability. Today,

winery produces 4,000 cases spread amongst sixteen different sin

vineyard bottlings, including four Pinot Noirs, three Cabernet Sa

gnons, two Petite Sirahs and two Chardonnays plus the renow

Charbono and bottlings of ros, Syrah and Zinfandel, as well as

ultra-rare Pinot Meunier, seldom seen except in sparkling wines. A

each, as Colette is known to say when asked in the tasting room,

the vineyard and appellation shine through.

Without a doubt, the new space is perfect for wine tasting. Seek

to be even more in the thick of good things, this second iteration

August Briggs has placed itself in the heart of downtown Calist

The new digs put you steps from world-class restaurants and tas

rooms no need to move the car since theres a lot going on arouyou. Jesse says it best, Our new creekside setting, convenient lo

tion and onsite parking make it the perfect place for sharing

limited production wines. Not to mention the special space ne

before available for wine club members, who get first and so

times only access to very special single-vineyard bottlings.

The tasting room is definitely a cut above the Valley norm. On

given day, two, three or even all four of the now-owners are on

pouring the wines. Why change what works? In the same v

August Briggs has been well known as a producer of excellent wi

and that legacy has continued no surprise since Jesse has b

August BriggsGeneration Two Is Moving Full-Steam Ahead in Downtown Calistog


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2

winemaking beside his uncle for a number years, so theyve been

his wines for a while now. And theres lots to choose from, which is

always the operating methodology of the winery: why make only a

couple of bottlings when there are so many vineyards producing

fantastic fruit from which to make wine? And why produce what

everyone else does? Part of the fun is making what others cannot or

will not!

Equally, tasting through four different Pinot Noirs, sourced from

four very diverse locations in Carneros, Napa, the Russian River and

the Sonoma Coast, or three different Cabs from Dry Creek, Napa and

Sonoma Valleys, is really unique even today. Since the owners are

there, the passion is apparent with every pour, and since these are the

folks who have been with the winery all along, they know best what

has worked to keep things fun and lively. Generation Two is nowmostly adjusted to their new roles, but Lisa is still amazed at the

huge complement Joe paid the four of them when he let them keep

doing what we love, but spend some time around these folks and

youll see it wasnt an accident. Come visit August Briggs yourself and

taste the wide-ranging goodness the four ex-employees and now-

owners are happy to share with you: journey to Calistoga and taste

their success yourself. Enjoy!

August Briggs is located at 1307 Lincoln Avenue in Calistoga,

pen daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (707)

942-4912.

UPCOMING

January 20

Hall Napa Valley

February 17 Kendall-Jackson

Winery

March 16

Ferrari-CaranoVineyards & Winery


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Look for us on Facebook and become a Fa28


Art ~ Wine ~ Education at 140

Northern Sonoma County WineriesOn January 14 and 15, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., more than

140 wineries in Dry Creek, the Russian River and Alexander

Valley in Northern Sonoma County will roll out the red carpet to

welcome guests to one of the most beautiful wine growing regions

on the planet. Its a true celebration of wine, education and the

arts. Now in its 20th year, this popular event has become a tradi-

tion for so many people who want to celebrate the beginning of

the new year with fine wine and food.

While the vineyards throughout Sonoma County might be

dormant all winter, the Wine Road shakes the cold weather blues

with this annual Winter Wineland event and invites guests tocreate their own journey through Wine Country, discovering new

wines, speaking with special artists in residence, viewing art

installations and learning about vineyard practices throughout the

area.

The event showcases this regions reputation for inspiring

creativity by highlighting the many artists that call this region

home. It also honors the art and history of winemaking, giving

guests behind-the-scenes access to the people, practices and wines

that make Wine Road one of the most exciting destinations in

California.

For those who are long-time fans of this portion of Northern

California, or are lucky first-time visitors, this is a unique oppor-tunity to experience a very special time of the year in wine county.

The pace is unhurried, the holidays are past and the entire valley

is relaxed but, also enthusiastic about what the 2012 growing

season and harvest might bring. It is a time of anticipation, a time

to sample wines many of them bottlings or labels that are new

to you and to share them with friends, even friends you have

not met before. One thing you will hear over and over again from

those who have been to this magical weekend is that they have

remained friends with people they had met in a tasting room, who

share a common appreciation for fine wine, the wine country

lifestyle and the gracious good humor of a tasting rooms hospi-

tality. What better gift could that be?

Tickets include tastings and viewings at all participating

wineries, including some wineries that are not usually open to the

public. Prices range from $35 to $55 (plus sales tax) and advance

ticket sales end January 9. If you are a designated driver you can

still enjoy all of the fun but no wine and your ticket is only $5.

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to

www.wineroad.com, or contact Beth Costa at 1-800-723-6336.

Free maps are available. You can also visit the Wine Road on

Twitter and Facebook.

20th Annual Winter Wineland


29/802www.WineCountryThisWeek.com



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New San Francisco venue for Grand Tasting and Epicuria

On January 28, The Grand Zinfandel Tasting (held during the 21st

Annual Zinfandel Advocates & Producers Festival in San Francisco)

will take on a fresh personality with a new home the carpeted, stylish

expanse of The Concourse at 8th and Brannan a vibrant SoMa neigh-

borhood easily accessible by public transportation. The move to the

spacious Concourse will allow winery stations to be spread out on

different levels, enabling friendly, interactive conversations between

winemakers and attendees.

Epicuria, ZAPs Zinfandel and food pairing extravaganza, will also

relocate to The Concourse in 2012. The Concourse is conveniently

located in downtown San Francisco, offering not only the ease of

public transportation and lots of cabs, but also ample parking. The

Concourse is ideally suited to the scope and purpose of this magnifi-

cent annual event, says Rebecca Robinson, Executive Director of ZAP.

The change from the two warehouses at Fort Mason in past years tobringing all the Zinfandel winemakers and avid fans under one roof is

wonderful, she adds. We all agree the energy and quality experi-

ence will be amazing.

Also new in 2012 are coordinated tasting events during the days

before the Festival at Beverages & More, K & L Wines, Ferry Plaza

Wine Merchants, Piedmont Grocery, Napa Valley Winery Exchange

and The Press Club.

The 2012 Zinfandel Festival encompasses four compelling events

in San Francisco from January 26, through January 28.

GRAND ZINFANDEL TASTING on Saturday is the largest and

most enthusiastically received single varietal tasting in the world, with

over 200 wineries pouring more than 600 different Zinfandels. Thenew venue at The Concourse allows ZAP to offer more workshops

than ever before on a range of topics such as the differences in the

regions where Zinfandel is grown and different approaches to

Zinfandel winemaking. ZinTracks, an innovative quick-reference

tasting guide, will offer lists of wines by appellation, barrel samples,

old vines, price point, vintage, vineyard designates and farming prac-

tices as well as a few fun and whimsical tracks, such as wine-

makers pets. This allows each attendee to personalize their tasting

experience and leave the Tasting having made numerous discoveries

about the uniqueness of Zinfandel.

EPICURIA is the new name for the extremely popular Thursdayevening Zinfandel and food pairing event, which will also take place

at The Concourse. This is an intimate way to explore the magic of

matching food and Zinfandel, whether its Swan Oyster Depots shrimp

cocktail or lamb lollipops from Ruths Chris Steak House. Epicuria is

a way to meet and converse with 50 Zinfandel vintners and 50 San

Francisco Bay Area chefs and restaurateurs whove worked together to

offer very specific food-wine matches. There is no better way to expe-

rience the wide range of Zinfandel styles and the broad scope of food

that Zinfandel can be paired with in a more intimate setting, explains

Robert Biale, President, Zinfandel Advocates & Producers. Epicuria

also includes The ZinKitchen, where chefs will demonstrate how

prepare their dishes and explain why it synchronizes so well w

Zinfandel. The ZinKitchen chefs include Chef Mark Dommen

Sommelier Tonya Pitts from One Market Restaurant and Chef Da

Taylor and Sommelier Shelley Lindgren from A16.

FLIGHTS is a seminar and tasting during which a panel

Zinfandel experts will taste along with participants and explore

superior quality, terroirs and distinctive characteristics of the varie

For 2012 Flights will take place at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in

Franciscos Union Square.

WINEMAKERS DINNER is the lively benefit auction and wi

maker dinner with a Las Vegas theme. Winemakers from 28 renow

wineries pour their Zinfandels for guests during a reception follow

by a live auction of one-of-a-kind Zinfandel-related items ranging fr

special VIP winery experiences and travel, unique Zinfandel-themart works and rare and large format bottles. At dinner, guests

seated with the winemakers and enjoy the opportunity to conve

ask questions and interact with those responsible for making

worlds finest Zinfandels. Proceeds benefit ZAP programming, edu

tion and Heritage Projects, including UC Davis, Sonoma State Univ

sity and City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts. For 2012 T

Winemakers Dinner will take place at the Westin St. Francis Hote

San Franciscos Union Square.

Tickets and a complete schedule for all four Zinfandel Fest

events are available online at www.Zinfandel.org. Most events sell

weeks before the Festival, so you are encouraged to purchase th

early.

ZINFANDEL

Zinfandel is considered Americas heritage wine because of its

history; plantings of Zinfandel in California represent some of

oldest vineyard plantings in the world adding further to Zinfan

critically important role in the world of fine wine. While the Zinfan

grape originated in Europe, the Zinfandel name is truly America

the earliest documented use of the name was when a Boston nur

owner advertised Zinfandel for sale in 1832. Zinfandel was introdu

to California during the Gold Rush at some point between 1852

ZAP Enhances Zinfandel Festival Tasting in 201


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1857 and became widely planted because it thrived so well in the

states climate and soil. Today, Zinfandel is the third leading wine grape

variety in California, with nearly 50,000 acres planted, according to

the 2010 California Grape Acreage Report.

ZINFANDEL ADVOCATES & PRODUCERSAs The Association of Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (ZAP)

celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2011, ZAP looks back upon a

profound legacy while anticipating a revealing future for Zinfandel.

Together with historians, growers, producers, researchers and

consumers, ZAP is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Zinfandel

while promoting its prospects. ZAP also has funded a number of other

projects, including the development of the Zinfandel Aroma Wheel,

publication of Resource Guide To Zinfandel as well as other educa-

tional events and materials.

Zinfandel Advocates & Producers welcomes Advocate memb

as well as wineries! Members come from all walks of life educat

wine trade, students, professionals, wine drinkers, wine collectors

those who just love Zinfandel! ZAP members have unique opportu

ties to explore Zinfandel, meet other Zinfandel enthusiasts discover new wineries. An annual membership is $44 (for two peo

and includes numerous special and behind-the-scenes events

resources. Members have early entrance to the Grand Zinfan

Tasting at ZAP's Zinfandel Festival, plus winemaker workshops h

in the exclusive Members' Lounge, as well as ticket savings for

Festival and other events, including cruises, invitations with spe

pricing to wine events, a seasonal eNewsletter with news artic

member stories, recipes, discounts and special offers at selec

wineries and more.

Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan! 3


Continued


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PINK MANSIONthe perfe napa wie asig experiee. Valley or fores views from eah room,

lavish breakfas ad aferoo wie asig, large idoor heaed pool ad Jauzzi,

i-room massage ad faials available. 1-800-238-74651415 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga www.pinkmansion.com

BRANNAN COTTAGE INNSx spaus, mab ms w ad vws, pva as, pva bas,qu-sz bds ad a a. tw m-sus av s ms w v-ss as w. A d ad as su m du summmvss. Dw ms ad pas zy ad ma vs.109 Wapoo St, Calistoga [email protected] (707) 942-4200

LEDSON HOTELluxuy suad s Sma Paza. Sx dvduay dad msw k-sz bd, wp bas, pa ad bas.Appd w aqu adu pad w md ams. (707) 996-9779480 First Street East, Sonoma www.ledsonhotel.com

INN AT THE TIDESBay vws, wak dsa spp, sauas; swmm p, ub,ss , saua; ms w vws ad pas; massa avaab;a bakas 1-800-541-77888 00 Hi ghway O ne, Bod ega Bay w ww .InnattheTid es.com

VINTNERS INNfy-u spaus ms ad sus w bas pas;

suudd by vyads. 1-800-421-24350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa www.vintnersinn

CALDERWOOD INNA s Va i a hadsbu

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HILTON GARDEN INN

2200 Gateway Court, (707) 426-6

Fairfield www.hiltongardeninn

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES

316 Pittman Road (707) 864-3

Fairfield www.hiexpress

LONE OAK LODGE

Witi miuts t aquaium, wiis, Mty hab, sppi, tavs, stauats, t.

1-800-283-5663 www.loneoaklodge

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L O D G I N GLook for more lodging options o


32

Bottle to be part of history exhibit at Napa Valleys first winery

In time for the 150th anniversary of Napa Valleys first winery this

year, the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family announces a search for the oldest

Charles Krug Winery bottle in existence. Founded in 1861, Charles

Krug Winery is the birthplace of the Napa Valley wine industry and

has been in the Peter Mondavi Family for nearly 70 of its 150 years.

Peter Mondavi Jr. puts his family winerys history in perspective:

Charles Krug was founded the year President Lincoln was inaugu-

rated and the year the Civil War began. At the time, Napa Valley was

essentially the Wild West. Charles Krug first planted Mission grapes

on his St. Helena estate but he soon replanted to European varietals

which he felt would make better wine. Wines made at the time would

have likely included claret, sherry, Madeira, sweet tokay and riesling,

the latter hugely popular with many of the German immigrant

winemakers in Napa Valley in the late 1800s.

Readers are encouraged to scour their wine cabinets, cellars, closets

and caves for Charles Krug wine bottles, empty or full, dating either

from pre-Prohibition or the Peter Mondavi Family era which began

with the 1944 vintage. Bottles deemed contenders will be authenti-

cated by experts in the wine department of Sothebys auction house in

New York. The Peter Mondavi Family may purchase the winning

bottle for display at the winery.

Plans are for an exhibit of historic artifacts from Charles Krug

Winery, which will include a towering 9000-gallon vintage redw

fermentation tank and Charles Krugs original basket press, which

used to crush the first harvest at his fledgling winery. The esta

Redwood Cellar will house the exhibit. The huge structure with

many-gabled roof and impressive belvedere was built by Charles Kin 1873 after his original cellar burned to the ground. On the Natio

Register of Historic Places and a California Historic Landmark,

Redwood Cellar was restored recently to hold the Peter Mond

Familys reserve barrel aging room. The Cellar will eventually ho

the winerys new tasting room and visitors center with construct

beginning in early 2012.

To submit an entry, visit Charles Krug on Facebook expl

about your bottle and post a photo, or send it in an email it

[email protected] by December 31, 2011. Contend

for the oldest bottle will be contacted with next steps.

Charles Krug Winerys 150-year history traces the transformatof the Napa Valley from Wild West to Wine Country destinati

With a legacy of nearly 70 years at Charles Krug, the Peter Mond

Family is dedicated to ecological stewardship in order to preserve

land for their children and future generations. Those efforts

steward the land and preserve the winerys historical legacy are earn

new respect for a family long identified with California wine. To le

more about Charles Krug Winery and the vision of the Peter Mond

Family, visit Charles Krug Winery online.

Search for Oldest Charles Krug Wine Bottle Announce


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The Napa Valley hangs its hat on crafting great wine and food from

farm-fresh ingredients, and in January, more than 50 of the regions

famed restaurants and hotels invite diners to celebrate Napa Valley

Restaurant Month and welcome the new year with 30 days of hand-selected menus and offers.

Michelin-star menus from the Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil, La

Toque, Solbar and Bouchon cast a spell that adds to offers from culi-

nary greats like Fish Story, Bottega Napa Valley, Coles Chop House,FARM, Brix, Brannans Grill and Mustards Grill to create a magical

culinary adventure worthy of extended exploration.

Highlights of the restaurant offers include prix fixe menus at theRestaurant at Auberge du Soleil, Boon Fly Caf, FARM and Kitchen

Door for $20.12; an indulgent All Truffles menu at La Toque; a two-course lunch with a glass of wine at Brix for $19; half-off all bottled

wines at Fish Story and $1 oysters at Pearl Restaurant.

Whats more, special Dine, Stay & Play lodging packages make iteasy to stay longer. To start your mouthwatering adventure and

explore all of Napa Valley Restaurant Months exciting offers, visit

www.LegendaryNapaValley.com.Following are some highlights of creative collaborations that serve

up both convenience and value for travelers this January:River Terrace Inn presents a Stay and Dine package with Cuve

Restaurant. In addition to dinner at Cuve, guests booking this

package are offered romantic potions fireside, a blankets on thebalcony amenity, cheese board and a bottle of Cabernet. The

following day Indulge Your Senses with a wine tasting at Monticello

Vineyards. Room rates start at $349 per night/double occupancy.

Four Sisters Inns Maison Fleurie and Lavender properties areoffering a Bon Appetit package, starting at $175. The packageincludes a one-night stay; $50 gift certificate to one of the innkeepers

favorite restaurants: Hurleys, Bouchon or Bistro Jeanty; complimen-

tary VIP tasting at V. Sattui Winery; signature Four Sisters Inns break-fast as well as afternoon wine and hors doeuvres. Sister property

Blackbird Inn is offering a Downtown Napa version of the pack

with $50 dining certificate to Allegria or Bounty Hunter, breakfast

afternoon wine and hors doeuvres.

The Grill at Meadowood Napa Valley welcomes guests to enjothree-course lunch with Napa Valley wines paired for $38 per peror a four-course dinner with paired wines for $68 per person. Din

booking a stay at Meadowood on the same evening will enjoy a gu

anteed upgrade to a guest room with a fireplace, a complimenbottle of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon upon arrival and com

mentary sports (tennis, golf or croquet) during their visit.

Napa Valley Opera House welcomes theatergoers to visit Dowtown Napas cultural capital with 25 percent off of January tickets, p

25 percent off of pre-theater dinner across the street at Carpe DWine Lounge. The nearby Napa River Inn also offers preferred pri

for Opera House ticket-holders throughout the month.

The Harvest Inn celebrates with A Taste of Winter Romanpackage. The offer includes accommodations in a King Vineyard V

room with fireplace; $100 gift certificate to Tra Vigne Restaur

welcome bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon; two 60-minute massages; bof chocolate truffles; wine country breakfast delivered in-room;

complimentary wine tastings for two and more. The package start$469 per night. Minimum two-night stay required.

The historic and comfortable Brannan Cottage Inn has teamed w

several local Calistoga restaurants and wineries to offer two spepackages during Napa Valley Restaurant Month. Both include lod

(one or two nights), and dinner at Flat Iron Grill or Barolo Restaur

and a special wine tour and tasting at either Vincent Arroyo Winer

Lava Vine Winery. The two-night package includes additional winactivities and dining. Rates start at $219 for one night/$459 for nights, per couple.

For additional Napa Valley Restaurant Month offers and lodg

specials, visit www.LegendaryNapaValley.com. Napa Valley RestaurMonth is part of California Restaurant Month.



3

Second Annual Napa Valley Restaurant Month PutsMichelin Stars, Lodging Packages Beyond Par on the Men


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The Napa Back Road

S U I S U NV A L L E YW I N E R I E S

S U I S U N V A L L E YMembership in Vezr Wine Club

When people join the Vezr Family Vineyard wine club, they tend

to not let their membership go. In fact, Vezr has one of the highest

club retentions of all time. There are many reasons to join other thanthe award-winning wine shipments and the benefits that give you VIPstatus and recognition. Theres ambiance that you cannot get anywhere

else, free tastings for up to four people, a private tasting room and club

room onsite, ATV tours, free wine club pick-up parties with live music,exceptional food and wine served right from the barrels.

Winter pick-up parties are usually barrel burning events, roasting

linguica, Hungarian paprika bacon and sausages from all over theworld, accompanied by hearty Zins, some seductive Cabernets, Petite

Sirah and Barrel Room Select Blends. And try roasting smores over theopen fire while tasting some of the finest white and ruby Ports.

At the spring and summer pick-up parties there are outdoor movies,

barbecues and live music in the gardens, either at the Private Ranch orthe quaint Western Village of Mankas Corner. Throughout the year,

there are special concerts and formal dinners. The wine club, due tothe limited production and intimate settings, is anticipated to be

capped at 1,000 members. The club consists of 250 spots for Chief-

tains VIP Chairmens, and 750 Elite members and these two quotasare quickly filling up. Stop by and visit the Vezrs and join either club

at the tasting room or join online at www.vezerfamilyvineyard.com.


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The Family Wineries and Growers of The CoombsvilleVintners & Growers Celebrate Napas Newest Appellation

The Coombsville Vintners & Growers have announced the approvaland designation of Napa Valleys newest sub-appellation, the Coomb-

sville Appellation. The official Coombsville Appellation designationwas made official by the United States Department of the Treasury TTB

on December 14, 2011, and makes Coombsville the Napa Valleys 16th

AVA, or American Viticultural Area.The Coombsville Appellation consists of approximately 11,000

acres and is bound by the Napa River to the west, to the rim of VacaRange on the east, with altitudes ranging from near sea level at the

western edge of the City of Napa, to approximately 1900 feet at Mt.

George in the north. The horseshoe-shaped west-facing ridge of theVaca Range partially encircles the Coombsville area, helping define the

north, east and southern boundaries of this newest viticultural area.

Coombsville AVA is a sub-appellation of the larger Napa Valley AVA

and the multi-county North Coast AVA.Coombsville Vintner Tom Farella of Farella Vineyard, who co-authored the AVA petition with fellow vintner Brad Kitson, said, Its a

great day for all of us that have been growing grapes in Coombsville for

decades. Coombsville now has its proper place in the Napa Valleylexicon and on the appellation maps. Since the Coombsville name has

been in use for so many years, having it placed among the great wine

regions of the world feels a little like coming home.The Coombsville Appellation is an incredibly distinct area that

differs from nearby AVAs in soils, geography and climate. The soils areprimarily dominated by the volcanic rhyolitic tuff that comprises the

Vaca Range on the eastern side of the Napa Valley.

I think when people see it on the map they will wonder why it

wasnt there all along because of how it fits into the puzzle pieces of theNapa Valley as a whole. It may have taken awhile to happen, but now

its locked in and we are very proud of that, Farella added.Most of Coombsvilles vine-

yards are located in the wide allu-vial deposits created by the

wearing down of the hillsides.

These soils are abundant withrock and gravel and, in some

areas, are also layered withvolcanic ash deposits from Mount

George. Separately and in various

combinations, these two compo-nents provide a variety of planting

options specific to each site.

In addition, the close prox-imity to the San Francisco Bay

contributes to the temperateclimate of Coombsville. The

cooling effects of marine fog occur

earlier and last longer than in themore northern regions and

temperatures are less extreme

during the winter frost season. Bud break is often sooner and harveusually later, leading to a longer growing season. These differen

impart unique characteristics in the wines that are produced in

region.

Coombsville wines can be recognized by their soft, but significtannins, which provide excellent structure and mouthfeel, along w

underlying layers of earth and mineral flavors. They are quite oapproachable yet sophisticated, complex and layered. Primary varie

include Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals, SyChardonnay and Pinot Noir.

We are excited to showcase the amazing vineyards in Coombsv

and the distinct and beautiful wines that are being made in the 1AVA of Napa Valley, stated Rebecca Sciandri Griffin, Sciandri Fam

Vineyards, President of Coombsville Vintners and Growers.

The Newly Recognized, but Long Established Coombsville Vners & Growers welcome visitors

to one of the Napa Valleys historicand most relaxed regions. Coomb-

sville Appellation wineries are

primarily family-owned and oper-ated, producing limited quantities

of super-premium quality wines.The Coombsville Appellation is a

mere one-hour drive from San

Francisco, and only minutes fromMichelin-starred restaurants and

luxury hotels, spas and B&Bs in

the city of Napa.For more information on the

Coombsville Appellation, and theCoombsville Vintners & Growers,

visit coombsvillenapa.org.

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Coombsville Receives Appellation Designation


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Host Wineries are Raymond Vineyards and Robert Mondavi Winery

Plus: Truffles & Wine Dinner la Carte!Raymond Vineyards and Robert Mondavi Winery will host the

lunches for the second annual Napa Truffle Festival, taking place the

weekend of January 13-16.

The focus of the festival is primarily black truffles specifically the

winter Prigord truffle (Tuber melanosporum), which will be

discussed, examined, probed, prepared, demonstrated and, finally,

paired with wines and feasted upon for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Along with the special weekend and scientific-grower packages,

the festival is now offering the Truffles & Wine Dinner at La Toque

la carte!

PROGRAM/SCHEDULEFriday Reception at La Toque

Saturday Scientific-Grower Programs at Westin Verasa, Lunch

and Tour at Raymond Vineyards, Truffles & Wine Dinner at La Toque

7:30-9:30 a.m. Breakfast and Keynote with Barbara Fairchild

10-11:30 a.m. Seminar: Science-based Truffle Cultivation

12-1:30 p.m. Lunch at Raymond Vineyards Chef Michou Cornu

1:30-2 p.m. VIP Winery Tour & Tasting at Raymond Vineyards

2:30-3:30 p.m. Truffle Orchard Tour & Dog Training Demo at

Sinskey Vineyards

4-5:30 p.m. Seminar: The Economics of Truffle Cultivation

7 p.m. Truffles & Wine Dinner at La Toque

Sunday Culinary Programs, Lunch and Tour at Robert Mondavi Winery

10-11:30 a.m. Cooking Demo with Michelin Star Chef

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Lunch at Robert Mondavi Winery

Chef Jeff Mosher

1:30-3:30 p.m. VIP Winery Tour & Tasting at Robert Mondavi

Winery

Monday Napa Truffle Festival Marketplace at Oxbow Public Market

showcasing local wineries, artisanal vendors and specialty food products

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cooking Demos, Wine & Food Tastings

The festival launches Friday night with a reception for guests to

hobnob with hosts Robert Chang and Dr. Paul Thomas of the Amer-

ican Truffle Company and Chef Ken Frank of La Toque; with keynotespeaker Barbara Fairchild, plus the Michelin Star Chefs sans

toques who have come from as far as Chicago and Italy to prepare

the truffles!

Saturday begins with a breakfast and keynote address by distin-

guished food and travel writer and former editor of Bon Apptit,

Barbara Fairchild, followed by scientific-grower programs, a foray to

Raymond Vineyards for a tour, tasting and lunch by Chef Michel

Cornu, and finishing with a truffle orchard tour at Sinskey Vineyards

(truffle dogs will be on hand to sniff things out).

Saturday night truffles will be celebrated at the grand Truffles &

Wine Dinner at La Toque, featuring a multi-course truffle menu

wine pairing - each course prepared by a Michelin Star Chef: Mich

Cimarusti of Providence in Los Angeles; Suzette Gresham-Tognett

Acquerello in San Francisco; Marco Gubbiotti of La Bastiglia in Spe

Italy; and Andrew Zimmerman of Sepia in Chicago.

Sunday is devoted to all things wine and culinary at Rob

Mondavi Winery: a cooking demo with Michelin Star Chef, follow

by a tour and tasting, and lunch prepared by Chef Jeff Mosher.

T

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Nor Cal Edition – Dec 30, 2011