Nor Cal Edition – Jan 13, 2012

8/3/2019 Nor Cal Edition Jan 13, 2012

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REE

CABERNETSHOOTOUT

PAGE 32

VINE HILWINERY

PAGE 65

BODEGA WINEESTATES

PAGE 60

MCGRAILVINEYARDS

PAGE 61

MARTINIMADNESS

PAGE 56

VIANSAWINERY

PAGE 52

TRUFFLEFESTIVAL

PAGE 36

WINE & CHOCOLATE

Fantasy2012

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O U R G U I D E T O C A L I F O R N I A W I N E , T H I N G S T O D O & E V E N T S www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

JANUARY 13, 20


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W

INE

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INERY

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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Coles Chop Hous

Viansa Winer

ON

THE

COVE

R

20

Vine Hill Winer

Wine & Chocolate Fantasy aRodney Strong Vineyard


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J A N U A R Y 1 3 , 2 0 1 2 I S S U E 2 V O L U M E 3 1

ON THE COVER

Rodney Strong Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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

WINE COUNTRY NEWS

Northern California Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

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

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

WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYS

Overnight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

SUISUN VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Suisun Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35-45

Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41

Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43

Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44-45

St. Helena Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-59

Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47

Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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

Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-59

Sonoma 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62-63

Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ & MONTEREY COUNTIES . . 64-67

Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

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

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

Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryTW

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 72 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 61SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ & MONTEREY COUNTIES

HAHN WINERYComplimentary tasting for two with ad 66 VINE HILL $10 tasting fee waived with ad 64

*See individual ads for details.

Special Coupons


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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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From simple white wines to complex red wines, the source of theprimary flavors in wine is the grape itself. Every grape varietal comes

with its own default flavor profile the most common flavors

produced by the grape when it is fermented. This is also known as the

true varietal character of the wine. For example, youll notice apple

and pear flavors virtually every time in Chardonnay, blackcurrant in

Cabernet Sauvignon, and red and black cherry flavors in Pinot Noir.

These characteristics are pretty typical of wines made from these

grapes, regardless of where the wine is made and who makes it.

Beyond the true varietal characteristics of a grape, it is the subtle

differences in winemaking and location of the vineyard that makes one

chardonnay vary from another chardonnay. The vineyard soil, eleva-

tion, exposure to wind, proximity to cool ocean breezes, time exposed

to morning fog even the direction the vine rows are planted in rela-

tion to the sun, all have a hand in the final flavors of the wine.

The full gamut, and complexity, of flavors in a wine are also

impacted by decisions made in the vineyard and inside the winery.

Deciding when to pick grapes is just one example. Harvesting early

adds a more crisp acidity to the wines texture. Picking later will richer fruitiness, and a higher alcohol level, both of which giv

greater impression of sweetness.

A wines flavor is also influenced by using oak barrels either in

fermentation or aging of the wine, or both. Wood barrels make t

large contributions to the wines flavor and texture. First, it help

soften a wines acidity by allowing malolactic fermentation to t

place. This is a second phase of fermentation, after alcohol fermen

tion, that converts tart, apple-like acid into softer acid, like that fou

in milk.

Second, oak barrels also darken a wines color add a hint of van

as well as a sweet fragrance to its bouquet, and add volume to the w

on the palate. Many California Chardonnay wines that are ba

fermented and barrel aged will exhibit these characteristics.

Technically, flavors come about through the natural creation

interaction of chemical compounds during the growth stages of

grape, the fermentation process, and the aging period. Wine, like

living things, changes over time, in reaction to its environment, bu

original characteristics come through just about every 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

How does wine get so many different flavors?

WINE TASTING, SALES

& HOME ACCESSORIES

12 Wineries

One Great Place

35 East Napa Street, Sonoma

(707) 935-1200www.sonoma-enoteca.com

Sonoma

Enoteca


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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

ONGOING

Napa Valley Wine Train

napa, www.wa.m, 800-427-4124

ONGOINGTaste at Oxbow Wine and Chocolate Pairing

napa, tas 5 as w 5 ws, $20, 12-7pm Suday u tusday

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

ONGOINGSeminars & 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

ONGOING

Jefferson House Reserve Room Tasting

at Monticello Vineyards

napa, rsv W Sma, cy famy napa Vay $25

rSVP 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, 707-257-5300ONGOING

Rombauer Vineyards

S. 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

ONGOING

Tours & Tasting at ZD Wines

rud, 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

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

Ja 27: lA taWks, t rvay

Ja 28-29: rkapa fb 7: c ns

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daily: Vally firs tour

Daily: gri hills esa Winry tour

fri-Sun: Domain candon Winry tour

Sa: Vallys only evnin Winry tour

Mon-tu: Ambassador Winry tour


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

Ja 27: Bak rm Bw ou XlV

ONGOINGdi Rosa

napa, 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

Ja 15: DeVo

Ja 20: luda Wams

Ja 27: Ms

Ja 28: tm fay & t lua f

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

ONGOINGFriday Night Winemaker EventsJV W & Sps, napa, 5-7pm, $2, www.jvw.m, 707-253-2624

ONGOING

Tasting Events at Wineries of Napa Valley

napa tw c, napa, k wbs ms & ps

www.apavas.m, 707-253-9450

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 16

Napa on Ice Outdoor Skating Rink

2d & cmbs S, napa

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

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 29Dreams of Toyland

napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 10am-5pm

www.apavaymusum., 707-944-0500


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 30Abstract Visions,A Brett Weston Retrospective at Turnbutubu W cas, oakv, A mpsv xb ba

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

JANUARY 13-152nd Annual Napa Truffle FestivalWs Vasa, napa, www.apausva.m, 888-360-8618

JANUARY 14

Family Fun Day: Celebration of Chinese New YearMak Da Pap las, napa Vay Musum, Yuv, 2-4pm,


JANUARY 18-22American Institute of Wine & Food30th Anniversary CelebrationVaus vs & as. www.awvs.

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


14/8014 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

JANUARY 27Cornerstone Cellars Winemaker Dinner with Jeff KeeneBx rsaua, napa, 6pm, $125

www.sas.m, 707-945-0388

JANUARY 28V. 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


JANUARY 2820th Annual Crab Feednapa Vay exp, napa, 5:30pm, 6pm, 707-255-8866x104

JANUARY 29Art Exhibit ReceptionPju, rud, 1-4pm, www.pju.m, 707-963-3600

FEBRUARY 3-4Artist Thomas Arvid Visits Wine Country

fbuay 3 o n Sw a n Bay gay, Yuv, 5-8pm

fbuay 4 Sv oak ras Day, Sv oak Wy

n Bay gay, V Makpa, www.nBaygay., 707-945-0145

FEBRUARY 10Opening Reception: Mozarts Muses Exhibitionnapa Vay Musum, Yuv, 5:30pm


ONGOINGLive Music at Centre du Vinlds h, Sma

www.ds.m, 707-996-9779

ONGOINGPrivate Tastings at Viansawww.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, $45ONGOING

Reserve Wine & Food PairingPrivate Tasting at ViansaSma, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm

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

ONGOINGCarneros Bistro & Wine Bar Introduces

Thematic 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 Workshopat B.R. Cohn Wineryg e, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/mmbs

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

ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tastingat B.R. Cohn Wineryg e, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/mmbs

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

ONGOINGPrivate Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu 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

ONGOINGWine 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

ONGOINGGuided 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-1pmwww.ds.m, 707-996-9779

ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz Winerycvda, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 as vs pa

www.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 Room

g e, 12-6pm, www.pkwy.m, 707-938-7622

ONGOINGMoondance Cellars & Orchard Station Win

g e, Pad w W cuy cas tu tass, $10

www.mdaas.m, 707-938-7550

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAY

Michel-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 $20

www.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 MORNING

Sonoma Valley Farmers MarketDp Pak, Sma, 9am-, 707-538-7023

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

www.pvyads.m, 707-935-8311

ONGOINGCooking 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 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

fb 1: Sp Uada

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

Ja 13: Wdbad 5

Ja 14: D's Umba

Ja 21: AlBino!

Ja 26: A.Skz'

Ja 27: Py t

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 15Minutely PersonalQua gay, Duas Ms, www.Qua-gay.m, 707-865-0243

SONOMA COUNTY


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Ann Hollister Exhibit

at Charles Creek Winery

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

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 12Olive Oil Tasting at Ledson Winery

ov Sas Sma Vay

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

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28Estate Olive Oil, Vinegar & Wine Tasting atB.R. Cohn Winery

ov Sas Sma Vay, 11am-5pm

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

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28Tour & Taste at The Olive Pressov Sas Sma Vay

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

ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 28Artisan Olive Oil Tastingov 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-WineTHURSDAYS SUNDAYS JANUARY 6-22

The 39 Steps 6th Street PlayhouseSaa rsa, 707-523-4185

www.6spayus.m

JANUARY 13, 2720th Annual Tides Wharf Crab Feed

tds Wa, Bda Bay, 5-9pm, $44.95

www.ads.m, 707-875-3652

JANUARY 13Martini Madness

ov Sas Sma Vay

Sadds rsaua, MaAu Pa, Sma, 5-7pm

www.maaupa.m, 707-938-2929

JANUARY 14Winter in the CellarPassaaqua Wy, hadsbu, 11am-5pm

www.passaaquawy.m, 707-433-5550

JANUARY 14-1520th Anniversary Winter Wineland

W ~ A ~ edua, 11am-4pm

Vs papa ws n Sma cuy

www.wad.m, 800-723-6336

JANUARY 14-15Winter Wineland at Christopher Creek Wine

hadsbu, 10am-5pm, $45, $35/Suday y

www.wad.m, 800-723-6336

JANUARY 14-15Winter Wineland at Kendall Jackson

hadsbu, 10am-5pm, $45, $35/Suday y

www.wad.m, 800-723-6336

JANUARY 14-15Winter Wineland at Mazzocco Winery

hadsbu, www.mazz.m, 800-501-8466

JANUARY 14-15Winter Wineland at Wilson Winery

hadsbu, www.wswy.m, 800-433-4602


16/80


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ONGOING THROUGH APRIL 22Matter + Spirit, The Sculpture of Stephen De Staeblerd Yu Musum, Sa fas, www.ams.

JANUARY 21The Cabernet Shootout Challenge at TheWinery SFt Bay Aa W Sy, p://aba.vb.m

tasu isad, 1:30-4:30pm, $69, $89/uds wmak pa

JANUARY 26-28

21st Annual Zinfandel FestivalSa fas, www.zad., 530-274-4900

Ja 26: epua, fd & Z Pas, t cus

Ja 27: fs, fums fav, Ws S. fas

Ja 27: Wmaks D, Vva las Vas, Ws S. fas

Ja 28: gad tas, fm A Z t cus

FEBRUARY 3-516th Annual San Francisco Arts of Pacific Asia Showf Mas c, Sa fas, $15

www.askyss.m, 415-750-7656

FEBRUARY 9-1226th Annual San Francisco Tribal & Textile Arts Showf Mas c, Sa fas, $15

www.askyss.m, 415-750-7656

MARIN COUNTY

ONGOING

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

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

fb 6, 9: Ma Spaks Ss, M r

fb 10: tAo, t A Dum

fb 11: Msw fsva Ba, Swa lak

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

FEBRUARY 25Cork Equity #35 at Guglielmo WineryB yu w d w! Ma h

www.umwy.m, 408-779-2145

ALAMEDA COUNTY

FEBRUARY 176th Annual Dark & DeliciousPS i lv Yu

rk Wa W cmpay, Aamda

$63, 6-9pm, www.psvyu.

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

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

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

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

LIVERMORE

ONGOINGBankhead Theatrelvm Vay Pm As c, lvm

www.vmpmas., 925-373-6800

Ja 14: B Bad Vd Daddy

Ja 21-22, 27-29: A

Ja 24: iaa gua n

fb 3-5: A

fb 8: c ns

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 28-29

Soup & Wine SOUPerbowl Weekendfsa Wy, lvm, 12-5pmwww.sawy.m, 925-447-5246

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

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

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

ONGOING THURSDAYSExploring Winela m abu w & w appa, as a ws !

cam rd Wy, cay rw, My, 4-6pm, $40

www.amd.m, 831-324-0035

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 DaySaa cuz Muas Wws Assa

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

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

JANUARY 22Wine & Crab Taste-OffSaa cuz Muas Wws Assa

Vs papa sauas! 2-5pm, $49

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

FEBRUARY 3-12AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-AmPbb Ba, www.pbbba.m

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

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

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

JANUARY 21

Winter Passport DaySaa cuz Muas Wws Assa

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

www.smwa.m, 831-685-8463

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

Ja 21: Sauday n D

ONGOINGChefs Holidayst Awa, Ysm naa Pak

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

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

fb 1-2: Sss 8, A cabav D t Wm Bav tVs tp

JANUARY 212nd Annual Winter Release Partyid hu Wy, oakus, 12-5pm, $20

www.dwy.m, 559-760-9090

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

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

fb 11: Sus D w Mus fb 14: Vas D w Da

ONGOINGMondavi Center for the Performing Arts

U.c. Davs, www.mdavas., 866-754-ArtS 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

fb 3: ov S

SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ& MONTEREY COUNTIES CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

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.


18/80Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT

WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

18

Exclusive Dinners, Tours, Wine Tastings, Classes and Grand Auction

Benefits Days of Taste Education Initiative

In celebration of their 30th Anniversary, The American Institute ofWine & Food (AIWF) will host the grand Savor Wine Country Enthu-

siast Weekend, taking place January 18-22. The weekends events will

raise funds for the organizations signature programs including the Days

of Taste initiative and culinary scholarships nationwide. Special events

include: exclusive tours and wine tastings, private chefs dinners at

participating restaurants, cooking classes and the 30th Anniversary

Celebration Dinner and Auction with guest of honor, Margrit Mondavi.

Highlighted events include:

Private Chefs Tasting 7-Course Dinner Paired with Wine at French

Laundry

30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Auction with MargritMondavi prepared by Guest Chefs: Ken Frank, Michelin starred

chef, La Toque, Napa; Joseph Humphrey, Michelin starred chef,

previously of Murray Circle, Sausalito; Brandon Sharp, Michelin

starred chef, Solbar, Calistoga; Gale Gand, AIWF Culinary Ambas-

sador and James Beard Award Winning Pastry Chef, Tru, Chicago;

Emily Luchetti, James Beard Award Winning Chef and Dean of the

International Culinary Center of New York and California, Pastr

Chef, Waterbar & Farallon, San Francisco

Chefs Table Dinner at La Toque Exclusive Tours and Tastings with: Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel

Shafer Vineyards, Staglin Family Vineyard, Robert Mondavi

Winery, Chappellet Winery, Ehlers Estate, Terra Valentine, Duck

horn Vineyards, Del Dotto, Viader and Tor Kenward

Day at the Culinary Institute of America, Greystone

and more

For more information and to sign-up visit www.aiwfevents.org

The AIWFs Days of Taste is a discovery-based program est

lished in 1995 that introduces elementary school children to the b

elements of taste and teaches them how food weaves its way throu

daily life from farm to table. The program brings together chefs, fo

professionals, farmers and community volunteers to guide school c

dren through an exploration of food, taste and nutrition. Using han

on activities, Days of Taste provides children the opportunity to le

about the taste, as well as the nutritional value of fresh whole foo

and gives them the chance to discuss, savor and compare differ

taste sensations and flavors of locally-grown products. Donations

also be made through the AIWF website, www.aiwfevents.org.

American Institute of Wine & Food Announces 30th AnniversarCelebration: Savor Wine Country Enthusiast Weekend


19/80 1www.WineCountryThisWeek.com


What other dinner do you have the oppor-

tunity to taste up to 25 wineries, then choose

one winery and sit down with the winemaker

for a five-course meal? This is it! Join us for an

elegant dinner and your own personal wine-maker, all in the beautiful Shadowbrook

Restaurant. Dinner will be prepared for you

by local chef Ashley Hosmer.

The 18th annual Ultimate Winemakers

Dinner will be held on Tuesday, February

28. This is a rare opportunity to taste the

fabulous wines of up to 25 Santa Cruz

Mountains Winegrowers, and then be

escorted to an intimate dinner. You will

enjoy the outstanding ambiance, cuisine

and service of the Shadowbrook Restaurant,

which is closed to the general public andopen exclusively for the guests of the Santa

Cruz Mountains Winegrowers.

You will arrive one half hour before your

seating time to enjoy wine tasting and a silent

auction in the restaurants stunning Rock

Room Lounge. In the dining room you will be

joined by one of our local vintners who will

share their wines with dinner. The chef of

Shadowbrook Restaurant will design a special

five-course menu to accompany the wines

selected for the evening.

This dinner always sells out far inadvance. Tickets are $105 per person (for

gourmet meal, wine, tax and gratuity). Reser-

vations are required. Sorry, the fee is

refundable after February 20. If you sho

need to cancel after that date, ask a friend

take your place. For questions and rese

tions regarding the Ultimate WinemakDinner, call (831) 685-VINE (8463) or v

www.scmwa.com.

Santa Cruz Mountains Wineries Great Wine Weekend

Winery with Full-Service Restaurant On-SitIn all of California there are only five properties that have both a winery and a full ser

restaurant. Sonoma Wine Country has two, one is owned by the world famous Francis F

Coppola, the other is a picturesque and historic family owned winery, Russian River Vineya

home of Corks Restaurant.

Corks Restaurant at Russian River Vineyards may be one of Wine Countrys best k

secrets except that they have been garnering rave reviews from patrons that consistently sh

four to five stars on ratings within Opentable.com and Yelp.com.The property, located immediately off scenic Highway 116 is surrounded by vineyard

the Russian River Valley. Just 15 minutes from downtown Santa Rosa, visitors are often ama

at the transformation from urban area to wine country.

Corks Restaurant is open daily for brunch and lunch. Dinner is served Sunday thro

Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. and is open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The tasting ro

is open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit the website for more informati

www.corks116.com.


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

WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

by Karin Argoud

There is one event and one winery youdont want to miss next month. The event:the 23rd Annual Wine & Chocolate Fantasy.The winery: Sonomas prestigious RodneyStrong Vineyards. Located at 11455 Old

Redwood Highway in Healdsburg. RodneyStrong Vineyards is one of Sonoma Countyssignature wineries and the perfect place to getacquainted with this spectacular winemakingregion, and the perfect place to fulfill afantasy; a wine and chocolate fantasy. Whatbetter way to kick off the month of love thanto spend the day with that special someone atthe 23rd Annual Wine & Chocolate Fantasyon Saturday, February 4, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Feast the senses with Rodney Strong wine,local gourmet food and chocolate to die for.And this year, Event Coordinator Debbie

Moore says the event has been upgraded fromsimply sublime to absolutely divine! Mooresays there will be about 400 attendees. Thisyear, it will be even more fun and sophisti-cated and absolutely gorgeous.

The barrel room will be transformed intoa paradise, enthused Moore. We want totake your breath away when you enter in thesweet smelling barrel room. Gorgeous rosecolored lighting will surround you and thewine barrels will be lit up. Tables will be

covered with elegant, berry colored cloth andoversized dramatic flowers. Listen or dance tothe smooth jazz sounds of two time Emmywinner, Tony Saunders, while you meanderthrough a beautiful series of halls and rooms.There will be places to lounge and sip award-winning Rodney Strong wines paired with

hand-made local chocolates from top notchchocolatiers. Biscotti Bari, Pams Candy,Ellenes Peanut Brittle, Barlovento Chocolates,Peters Chocolates, Vintage Sweet Shoppe,Patisserie Angelica, Berts Desserts, SiftCupcake and Dessert Bar. For food lovers,there will be stations filled with savory appe-tizers from gourmet catering companies likeFresh, by Sonoma Countys Queen of CuisineLisa Hemenway will pair mouth-wateringpork mole which with the Rodney Strong 09Pinot Noir Estate Russian River, which justwon gold at the Harvest Fair, and yummycaramel apple walnut bars drizzled with whitechocolate to pair with the Chardonnays fromRodney Strong. Starks Catering, and TimVallery Peloton Catering will also be servingdelectibles made just for this fantasy.

Rodney Strongs three single-vineyardCabernets will be featured in a special room.

Tickets for this popular event are $65 perperson ($50 for Collectors Circle members-limited to two) and include a commemorativeglass. To purchase tickets, go to the website,

www.rodneystrong.com. Its sure to sell oso be sure to buy your tickets well in advan

and remember your receipt is your ticket. Ywill be required to show your printed recand photo I.D. to gain admission to the evAny questions, call the hospitality cente

1-800-678-4763.

BIT OF TRIVIA

Winery founder, Rodney D. Strong, bin 1927, in Camas, Washington, was firsclassically trained dancer. He danced wmasters Martha Graham and George Bal

chine at the American School of Ballet. Ttraining led to a successful career, highlighby four years dancing in Paris. When returned to the U.S. in 1951, his love Fren

food and wine sparked what would becohis next passion, a career in winemakingknew I couldnt be an old dancer, but I cobe an old winemaker, said Mr. Strong.

had a sense of humor, too. He married dance partner, Charlotte Anne Winson, the couple moved to Tiburon, CaliforThey purchased a century-old board

house on the waterfront. In Rods early das a winemaker, he would search for bwine, and blend and bottle it to his tastethe cellar of the house. Hed then inv

members of the nearby yacht club to cometastings and purchase their wine.

Rodney Strong Vineyards23rd Annual Wine & Chocolate Fantasy, February 4


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR

SUMMER CONCERTS

In 1959, Rodney Strong estab-lished Sonoma Countys 13thbonded winery. He was avisionary who understood thepotential that Sonomas soil andclimate held for producing

world-class wines. Its no wonderthis dancer, and pioneer in thewine industry, would welcomeartists to perform at the winery,and events like the summerconcert series would unfold.

As the winter gets colder,warm yourself with thoughts ofthe Rodney Strongs AnnualSummer Concert Series. Enjoytop performers and amazingwine, while picnicking at the

winerys intimate concert venue,surrounded by breathtakingviews and acres of beautiful vine-yards. Theres no better way toenjoy a Sonoma County summer.

ENVIRONMENT

Not only does this winerycare about wine, food and art,but Rodney Strong Vineyardscares about the environment.Sonoma Countys first carbonneutral winery, Rodney Strong

Vineyards installed one of thelargest solar electric systems inthe wine world in 2003. The766Kw system at RodneyStrong Vineyards generatesenough energy to power almost800 homes and has reducedtheir dependence on the powergrid by 35%. Over 25 years, itwill cut emissions of carbondioxide a major factor inglobal warming by 8,700

tons. Since 1989, the Kleinfamily has owned the winery

and their passion for sustain-able farming practices, solarpower and other green businesspractices continues.

Rodney Strong Vineyards isopen daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.and is located at 11455 OldRedwood Highway in Healds-burg. For more information, goto www.rodneystrong.com.


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North Bay Gallery in Yountville ispleased to welcome Thomas Arvid for aone-night show on Friday, February 3rfrom 5 to 8 p.m. In addition to a live

painting demonstration by Thomas, thegallery will showcase the artists latestworks along with archival pieces and a surprises from his studio. Arvid will alsunveil his latest masterpiece, SilverLining created over the course of the lyear.

Named one of the top 25 Artists YoShould Know by US Art magazine, Arvmonumental paintings astonish viewerwith their intricate details and his mastof light, depth and reflection. Im alwatrying to capture the magic of a perfectevening shared with great friends and agreat bottle, says Arvid. With his iconiportrayals of the wine experience displin exclusive galleries across North Ameand his many relationships with vintnewineries and art collectors throughoutNapa, Thomas Arvid has become synonmous with the wine lifestyle.

Marc and Donna Eremian, owners oNorth Bay Gallery have shown Arvidswork for years, but this will be the firsttime the artist has been able to appear a

the gallery. Its really a treat for us to beable to present the work of a world-renown artist of Arvids caliber and to hhim here in person makes it even morespecial, says Donna. Thomas will besigning art and taking pictures with coltors on Friday, but the artwork will remon display for those interested in addintheir collection.

Saturday, February 4th, Thomas wiljoin friends and fans for the Silver OakRelease Day to raise a glass in celebratio

of the 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvgnon. I look forward to the excitemenrelease day when I come to Napa Valleysaid Arvid. Im honored to be a part oSilver Oak family and what better way celebrate our shared commitment to crmanship than with fellow fans?

For more information, visit North BGallery at V Marketplace, 6525 Wash-ington St., Yountville or contact them a(707) 945-0145. The gallery is open dafrom 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.On the Cover: Silver Lining, oil on canvas (30 x 40 inches) by artist Thomas Arvid.

Thomas Arvid to Visit Wine Country, Feb. 3-4


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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.

24 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT


20th Annual Winter Wineland


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A stop by the tasting salon at B Cellars exudes a luxury and style

that is rare to find. The artisanal blended wines are exceptional and theeducated tasting staff treats guests like royalty. The B Cellars experi-

ence is relaxed and personal with a contemporary flare! Located at the

northern end of the Napa Valley on the historic Silverado Trail, just afew minutes from downtown Calistoga, B Cellars is a sparkling jewel

nestled beneath the Vaca mountain range.

Founded in 2003 by business partners Duffy Keys and Jim Borsack,B Cellars is committed to the artisan approach to winemaking and

creates complex, beautifully balanced wines. A modern-day ngociantin the classic Burgundian model, their grapes come from some of Napa

Valleys most prized vineyard properties and esteemed grape growers.

This makes for wines that have distinct character, depth and layersof flavors, in other words, wines that are ideal for pairing with food.

B Cellars innovative and hands-on private tasting experiences are a

must! There is the Exclusive Single-Vineyard Private Tasting, held inthe heart of the cellar, where guests enjoy limited production Cabernet

Sauvignon and Syrah from some of Napa Valleys most sought aftervineyards. Experience the extraordinary and diverse terroir of the

Napa Valley, while savoring locally-sourced cheese and charcuterie.

This experience is offered daily by advance reservation only. Cost $65per person; approximately 90 minutes.

Take a peek at B Cellars past and future with the intimate LibraryWine Tasting. Offered in a private setting, guests will start with afuture release wine drawn from the barrel and then explore the

ageability of B Cellars wines through a multi-vintage vertical tasting.Each wine paired with artisan cave-aged cheeses, this tasting allows

guests the opportunity to taste and purchase wines not available to the

general public. This experience is offered daily by advance reservationonly. Cost $65 per person; approximately 90 minutes.

The Flagship Private Tasting takes guests on a guided tour of the

estate vineyards or cellar hosted by one of B Cellars wine educat

Following the tour, guests will enjoy a private seated tastingB Cellars flagship blends as well as a limited-production selection o

available at the winery. All tastings are accompanied by locally sour

cheese and charcuterie and are offered on a daily basis by advanreservation only. Cost $35 per person; approximately 60 minutes

Sensory and Excitement Join B Cellars wine educator, Chris

Machamer, winner of the season four FOX TV series: Hells Kitchin a no-holds-barred wine education experience. Now a certi

sommelier, join Chef Cmac as she explains how childhood sememories affect the way adults taste wine, and learn her insider

for successful food and wine pairings. A no rules wine tasting, wh

guests should expect the unexpected, this tasting is offered olimited basis, and advance reservations are required. Cost is $55

person; approximately 90 minutes.

So you want to be a winemaker! Come for theWine Blending B

Camp, hosted by B Cellars assistant winemaker, Derek Taylor. Get

insiders view on what it takes to develop an artisanal blended wCampers start their day with a walk through the estate viney

escorted by one of B Cellars wine educators, followed by a tasting

future and current release wines in the cellar. After the tasting, ecouple will concoct their own proprietary blend, to be judged by

group in a blind tasting. The Master blenders will be rewarded w

a B Cellars magnum signed by camp graduates and every camper receive a souvenir bottle of the winning blend. A gourmet cate

lunch is included, and advanced reservations are required. Tprogram will be offered the last Friday of every month, beginn

February 24th, 2012 starting at 11 a.m. Cost $150 per pers

approximately three hours.Picnic Among The Vines! Looking for the perfect way to celebr

a special occasion, or simply take in the breathtaking sights of

Innovative Tasting Options at B Cellar

www.WineCountryThisWeek.co


26


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2

valley? Starting in June through October, join B Cellars for a romantic

picnic, nestled in the estate vineyard. Greeted in the beautiful B Cellarstasting salon, guests will enjoy a tour of the beautiful cellar/barrel

room, before being escorted to a secluded picnic spot in our vineyard,where guests can experience the tranquility of our serene Calistogalocation. Gourmet lunch includes a take-away picnic basket filled with

gourmet sandwiches, artisan cheese, locally baked bread, fresh curedolives and a bottle of either the white Blend 23 or a Single-Vineyard

Syrah. Advanced reservations are required; cost $150 per couple, $75

per additional guest.Enology 101 For something a little more casual, reserve your

spot for our Enology 101 class offered every Sunday at 11 a.m.

Whether you are a seasoned wine adventurer or if this is your firstexcursion into wine country; learn the secrets as to how sommeliers

taste and analyze wines, the basics of wine service and how to pairfood and wine at home. Come ready to participate, as each guest will

write their own mad libs inspired tasting notes, the best of which

will be featured in future B Cellars wine club shipments! Advancedreservations required; cost $30 per person; approximately 60 minutes.

Classic Wine Tasting guests are welcome to come to the tasting

salon anytime for a classic B Cellars tasting, featuring four vintagewines (one white and three reds) from B Cellars current releases. No

reservations are required, cost is $15 per person.B Cellars is located at 400 Silverado Trail, Calistoga and is open

every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call

(707) 709-8787 or 1-877-229-9939, email [email protected] or goonline to www.bcellars.com.

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


Tasting Room of the Week:Jaxon Keys Winery

by Sue Straight, The Wine Wench

In the mood for a beautiful drive, a little

history, some gracious hospitality and some

really good, reasonably priced wines? If so,

Jaxon Keys Winery may just be the place

youre looking for. Located just a hop north ofHopland (about thirty miles north of Healds-

burg), the Jaxon Keys Winery Visitors Center

sits atop a grapevine-covered knoll that over-

looks picturesque Sanel Valley. The visitors

center is a lovingly restored Victorian Farm-

house that was built in 1880. The floors are well-worn hardwood,

covered with a plush rug. Two cozy armchairs flank a white brick fire-

place, inviting you to sit and sip for a while. There is a goodly handful

of wine related merchandise, including logo apparel, glassware and

food items artfully displayed around the room for the discerning

shopper. Speaking of food items, cheeses, crackers and other picnic

fare are available for al fresco enjoyment on the picturesque patio.

The winery itself is a rather industrial looking building, located a

stones-throw from the visitors center. For many years, before Ken and

Diane Wilson (owners of Wilson, Mazzocco, Matrix, deLorimier and

Soda Rock Wineries) purchased the property, the winery was known

as Jepson Vineyards and the tasting room was located inside the

winery. These days, visitors may tour the winery facility, but most of

the hospitality action takes place over in the visitors center, which is

gorgeous, by the way!

Along with the patio, there is a covered porch, which wraps

around the building. There is plenty of ro

for entertaining in the sun and in the shad

well. In fact, Jaxon Keys Winery hosts sm

private events and wine club parties o

regular basis. They have a full commer

kitchen onsite and even have a guestho

available for overnight visitors (reservatiare required).

If you mosey up to the antique dark w

bar, a cheerful, knowledgeable server will p

you some delicious wines. I tasted a bunc

wines during my visit, but only have room

write about a couple. Tough choice!

The following two wines were my favorites: 2010 Farmho

White, $15: In a word, yum! This delicious white wine is a ha

blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier and Colombard.

almost too easy to drink! The nose is super-fruity redolent with t

ical fruit, ripe melon, citrus and white flowers. These aromas conti

as flavors in the round, juicy mouth and on through the long fini

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Peterson Vineyard, $26: This w

alone is worth the drive it is a fantastic bargain! Classic Cabe

Sauvignon aromas (black cherry, cassis, cigar box and mocha) abo

and are also present in the lusciously textured mouth. Long, delic

finish.

Jump in your car and take a leisurely drive to Jaxon Keys Win

Youll be glad you did! Tell em The Wine Wench sent

Jaxon Keys Winery welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

more information, call (707) 462-6666 or visit www.jaxonkeys.co


29/802www.WineCountryThisWeek.com


El Dorado Winerys PresentBring Out the Barrel 2012:

Good Wine HuntingEl Dorado Winery Association (EDWA) invites you to hunt for

your next favorite wine during their annual Bring Out the Barrel event

January 28 and 29, 2012.

Bring Out the Barrel is a self-guided tour of 27 wineries nestled in

and around El Dorado Hills. During the event, wine lovers can explore

new vintages at El Dorados finest wineries for the cost of a bottle of

wine. You will be treated to a special preview of extraordinary wines

with the opportunity to taste them straight from the barrel before they

are blended or bottled. Each winery will be offering wine tastings,

light hors doeuvres and the opportunity to learn more about wine

and winemaking.

As youre discovering great wines, you can also be on the hunt foryour ideal wine assortment as part of the Good Wine Hunting

Treasure Hunt. A drawing will be held after the event, and five

winners will be selected to receive EDWA Passport tickets, a desig-

nated driver and gift baskets.

El Dorados family owned wineries are just a short drive from

Sacramento or South Lake Tahoe, just off I-50 (Schnell School Road,

Smith Flat, Carson Road and Camino Exits).

To purchase tickets for this event, go to www.eldoradowines.org.

Only a limited number of tickets are available. For more information,

contact El Dorado Winery Association at 1-800-306-3956.

About El Dorado Winery Association

Just about an hour from Sacramento or South Lake Tahoe and a

little over two hours from Reno or the San Francisco area, El Dorados

wineries beckon visitors with a wide diversity of award winning

wines, friendly tasting room staffs and idyllic views of snow-capped

mountains and oak-studded foothills.

The wineries here are renowned for making vibrantly flavorful,

distinctly delicious wines, grown in the dramatic elevations of the

Sierra Nevada. For more information, visit www.edoradowines.org.


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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

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HILTON GARDEN INN

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HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES

316 Pittman Road (707) 864-3

Fairfield www.hiexpress

LONE OAK LODGE

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


32

The Bay Area Wine Society, in partnership with Affairs of the Vine

and The Winery SF, invites Cabernet enthusiasts to taste 32 of the top-rated wines from the 2011 Affairs of the Vine Cabernet Shootout and

compare their findings to the judging panel at The Cabernet Shootout

Challenge on Saturday, January 21 starting at noon.

For many wine drinkers, January is associated with a major tasting

of Zinfandels. Now Cabernet enthusiasts can also indulge their

passion at the beginning of the year in one of the most dramatic

settings in the Bay Area The Winery SF on Treasure Island. And

enjoy the experience without the crowd crush of the mega-tastings.

The event includes:

A Consumers Choice blind tasting of Cabernets

Winemaker panels discussing the unique characteristics of different

Cabernet growing areas A walk-around tasting to discuss releases with the vintners who

submitted wines for judging

A raffle of Gold Medal-winning Cabernets from the Cabernet

Shootout

Over the course of many weeks this past fall, a distinguished group

of wine industry professionals assessed a broad range of Cabernet

Sauvignons, Cabernet Francs and Cabernet blends and selected the

best of the best at the Cabernet Shootout. These finalists can now be

evaluated in a blind tasting by wine consumers participating in

Cabernet Shootout Challenge.This distinctly different format, noted Tom Merle, President of

Bay Area Wine Society, provides a unique opportunity for people w

buy the wine to challenge the tastes of the wine experts.

Afterward, a walk-around tasting, including Cabernet-friendly li

hors doeuvres, will allow attendees to meet the participating vintn

and taste their current releases. With the limit on ticket sales se

250, the citizen judges will have plenty of opportunity to chat with

vintners.

In addition, the Cabernet Challenge will offer several concurr

panel sessions with winemakers prior to the blind tasting. Wi

makers will discuss how this noble varietal is influenced by the ter

of different grape growing areas.One Brick, a nonprofit organization, is providing volunteer as

tance for the event and will also be raffling off gold medal-winn

Cabernets from the Cabernet Shootout.

Ticket prices are $69 each, $89 including a winemakers panel

For more information and to purchase tickets, go online

cabchallenge.eventbrite.com.

The Winery SF is located at 200 California Ave, Bldg 180 No

Treasure Island, San Francisco.

Cabernet Shootout ChallengeWine Lovers Pit Their Palates Against the Pros


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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.



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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

Documents

Nor Cal Edition – Jan 13, 2012