Nor Cal Edition - March 22, 2013

7/29/2019 Nor Cal Edition - March 22, 2013

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ARTESA WINERY PAG

WINEMAKER PROFILE:JAXON KEYS WINERY PAG

DELORIMIER WINERY PAG

TASTING ROOM OF THE WEEK:SEBASTIANI WINERY PAG

TOP CAVE TOURS PAGES 73

REE

PAGE 26

You R guide to NoR tHeRN CALiF oRN iA Wi NeR ies , tHiNg s to do & ev eN ts

MARCH 22, 2013

COUPON INSIDE! SEE PAGE 2

FREE FACTORY TOURS


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www.WnCnrythWk.c

WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

Come Toast to Spring!

Please join us for a visit andtaste our fabulous wines!

Private Carriage House availablefor Weddings and Events

2

More than 1,000 distribution points

Read by more than 2 million people annually

www.winecountrythisweek.com

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476

P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco

Direct (707) 938-3734

[email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Chandra Grant

Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER & Cathy Gore

CALENDAR EDITOR Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]

CIRCULATION & Jeff Burgess, Director

DISTRIBUTION 707-304-6464 or [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONS $75 per year ($1.44 each)PO Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433

SINGLE COPY Send check for $5 to

PO Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433

EDITORIAL Karin Argoud, Michelle Baker, Alexandra Charsley

CONTRIBUTORS Monica Dashwood, Mike Hyland, Denise Olliffe

Laura Ness, Charles Neave, Josh Stein,

Sue Straight - The Wine Wenchand Abigail Zimmerman

MEDIA

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

www.facebook.com/WineCountryThisWeek

@WineCountryTW

S A L E SGeneral Sales Mike Giangreco

707-938-3734, [email protected]

Sonoma, Mendocino Jet Howelland Lake Counties 707-495 9385, [email protected]

Napa Valley RoseAnn Trzesniewski

707-334-1930, [email protected]

Livermore, Treasure Island, Mike Giangreco

Monterey Bay, Central Coast [email protected]

Santa Cruz Mountains 707-938-3734

Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is prohibited.

Published Weekly Since 1981

Planning a Visit to Central Coast Wine Country?Pick up a copy ofWINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH: CENTRAL COAST

or download the current issue at www.winecountrythismonth.com


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WiNe CouNtRY tHis We


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tABLe oF CoNteNts | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK MARCH 22, 2013 | ISSUE 12, VOLUME

FeAtuRes ReguLARsWiNe RegioNs8 | NoRtHeRN CALiFoRNiA MAP

31 | suisuN vALLeY

37 | NAPA vALLeYNapa Valley Wineries Map, 44-45Yountville, 39Calistoga, 42-43Downtown Napa Map, 47St. Helena Map, 47

48 | soNoMA CouNtYSonoma County Wineries Map, 48-49Northern Sonoma County Wineries Map, 50Downtown Healdsburg Map, 52Geyserville Wineries Map, 55Sonoma Valley Wineries Map, 57Sonoma Plaza Map, 61Glen Ellen & Kenwood Map, 63

64 | MeNdoCiNo & LAKe CouNtiesLake & Mendocino Counties Map, 64

66 | sANtA CLARA, sANtA CRuZ & MoNteReY CouNtiesMonterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map, 66Salinas Valley Wineries Map, 69

70 | LiveRMoRe vALLeYLivermore Valley Map, 70

21 16tH ANNuAL tAste ALexANdeR vALLeY, MAY 17-19

22 ARtesA viNeYARds & WiNeRYArtesa Goes Sailing

24 JeLLY BeLLY visitoR CeNteRCandy Factory Tours

26 oN tHe CoveR: MedLoCK AMesA Truly Unique Wine Country Destination

30 WiNeMAKeR PRoFiLe: FRed NiCKeLJaxon Keys Winery & Distillery

33 stAgs LeAP distRiCt viNeYARd to viNtNeR (v2v)Exclusive Weekend Scheduled for April 26-28

36 gRgiCH HiLLsMiljenko Mike Grgich Celebrates 90th Birthday

4 0 BottLeRoCK NAPA vALLeYInaugural Festival Announced!

54 deLoRiMieR WiNeRY

60 tAstiNg RooM oF tHe WeeK:Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery

70 LiveRMoRe vALLeY BARReL tAstiNg WeeKeNdGarr Vineyard & Winery, March 23 & 24

6 | WiNe CouNtRY deALs & disCouNts

10 | WiNeoLogYBy Ln NaplanWhat is Residual Sugar?

12 | WiNe gRoWiNg desiCioNs By Jh snTrellising: How Grapevines Got a Shape

14 | CALeNdAR oF eveNts

21 | WiNe CouNtRY LodgiNg

32|

CoNCieRge FAvoRites71 | WiNeRY ListiNgs

Napa Valley, 71

Sonoma County, 76

Monterey, Santa Cruz & Santa Clara Counties, 82

Lake & Mendocino Counties, 83

Suisun, 84

Bay Area/Livermore, 85

73 | NAPA vALLeYs toP 5 CAve touRs75 | Pet FRieNdLY WiNeRies77 | soNoMA CouNtYs toP 5 CAve touRs86 | diNiNg diReCtoRY

Wine Country This Weeks preferred restaurants

in Sonoma County (p86) and Napa Valley (p87)

60

2

30


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Small Family OwnedWinery in the Heart of

Napa Valley

1563 St. Helena Hwy, St. Helena | 800-963-9454 | whitehalllane.comFollow us: facebook.com/whitehalllanewinery | twitter.com/whitehalllane

Open Daily 10am to 5:45pm

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Pinot Noir

Sauvignon Blanc

Chardonnay

Dessert Wines

COME IN AND TASTE OUR WINES:

Join us for an amazing wine experienceat our winery & tasting room.

PrivateTours and Tastings available by appointment

Flagship Tasting Daily from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

No appointment necessary


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NAPA vALLeY

5 | ANdRetti WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a

29 | BeRiNgeR viNeYARds 2 fr 1 an n h Rhn H w/a

5 | CALiFoRNiA WiNe touRs spcal prc n r an an

43 | dutCH HeNRY WiNeRY10% ff prcha wh a

3 | goLdeN HAveN dcn n Cpl M Bah/spa gaway

41 | HAgAFeN CeLLARs 2 fr 1 an wh a

39 | JessuP CeLLARs tan f wa wh prcha

37 | Louis M. MARtiNi WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a

43 | oLd FAitHFuL geYseR $1 ff wh a

41 | ReAtA 2 fr 1 an wh a

88 | RutHeRFoRd HiLL WiNeRY10% ff yr prcha wh a

39 | soMeRstoN WiNe Co. Cmplmnary an, a fr al

7 | st. CLeMeNt WiNeRY2 fr 1 an

10 | stAgeCoACH exPRess Cmplmnary hppn b

13 | steRLiNg viNeYARds v hr wb fr $5 an

42 | suMMeRs WiNes 15% cn wh a

35 | WiLLiAM HiLL 2 fr 1 an wh a

soNoMA CouNtY

62 | B Wise Mnn a fr an enhanc tan eprnc

51 | BALLetto viNeYARds Cmplmnary an wh a

5 | CALiFoRNiA WiNe touRs spcal prc n r an an

49 | CeLLARs oF soNoMA 2 fr 1 an wh a

59 | CHAteAu st. JeAN 2 fr 1 an wh a

78 | FeRRARi-CARANo 2 fr 1 Clac Wn an wh a

51 | FRitZ WiNeRYMnn a fr $5 ff wn an

79 | HoP KiLN WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a

55 | KeNdALL-JACKsoN WiNeRY2 fr 1 Rr tan wh a

63 | LedsoN WiNeRY & viNeYARds Mnn a fr pra an

53 | Lost CANYoN WiNeRYCmplmnary an fr w wh a

51 | MARtiN RAY WiNeRY15% cn wh a

63 | MusCARdiNi CeLLARs Cmplmnary an fr w wh a

52 | RodNeY stRoNg Cmplmnary an/20% cn wh a

53 | stAtioN 1870 Cmplmnary an fr w wh a

62 | vJB viNeYARds & CeLLARs 2 cmplmnary an & 15% ff prcha

57 | viANsA WiNeRY2 fr 1 an & 10% ff prcha wh a

sANtA CLARA, sANtA CRuZ & MoNteReY CouNties

69 | HAHN WiNeRYCmplmnary an fr w wh a

*See individual ads for details.

DEALS & DISCOUNTS


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Only available at winery. Not applicable online. Oer expires 03/31/2013. *By Best Of Magazine

JOIN US FOR WINE TASTINGOpen daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m ~ seminars available by appointment, 707.963.1160

A TASTE OF TERROIRAn exclusive side-by-side evaluation of four Trinchero cabernets from St. Helena, Rutherford,

Atlas Peak & Mt. Veeder in the private downstairs cellar $50 per person.

THE SENSORY CHALLENGEIdentify key aromatics in wine by playing the Le Nez du Vin aroma challenge $35 per person.

3070 North St. Helena Highway, St. Helena, CA 94574707.963.1160 | www.trincheronapavalley.com


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Open for Tours & Tastings daily10am - 4:30pmtours by appointment only

Experience the

true expression of

Cabernet Sauvignon

8383 Silverado Tr.| Napa, CA | 800.487.7757 | www.zdwines.com


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Regardless of whether a wine tastes sweet or dry, just about every

wine contains a small amount of unfermented sugar, measured ingrams per liter of wine.

The sugar comes from the clear juice inside the grapes, which is

transformed from a sweet juice as the grapes are crushed, or pressed,

to a nearly dry juice during the process of fermentation. The amount

of sugar that remains can range from one gram per liter of wine to

about 25 grams per liter, depending on the wines type, style and

geographic origin. Some of the worlds greatest sweet dessert wines

will have a residual sugar content of around 250 grams per liter, or

more.

Wines with a residual sugar content of less than two grams per liter,

which may also be referred to in percentage (0.2%) are technicallyconsidered dry because the average palate will not be able to detect

this small amount of sweetness. As the sugar content increases,

sweetness still may not be tasted due to other components of the w

that will balance out the sweetness. For example, when a white winhas a high amount of acidity, the acids balance high residual sugar,

therefore make the sugar content seem insignificant.

Even big, robust red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, may h

a fair amount of residual sugar but it becomes unnoticeable with a

equal level of rich fruitiness or tannin that astringent quality tha

has a drying effect on the mouth like an over-steeped cup of tea.

In some areas of the winemaking world, grapes do not achieve

ripeness and therefore do not start out with a lot of sugar in the

crushed or pressed juice. Thus, when fermentation quits, and the

yeast has converted it all to alcohol, the result is a relatively low lev

of alcohol in the wine. In some cases this is desirable, in others, noSugar may be added to the juice before fermentation begins, laws

permitting, in order to achieve a higher final alcohol level. But in

most of California, failure to achieve ripeness is usually not a conc

and the winemaker controls residual sugar by deciding when to st

fermentation. Stopping fermentation before all the sugar is conver

will leave residual sugar in the final product.

When youre in a tasting room and you are told that a wine has

residual sugar content, or when you read a wine label that states th

wine has a certain amount of residual sugar, dont automatically th

the wine will taste sweet. Good dry wines are balanced with

counteracting components that make residual sugar an impercept

but big contributor to the wines drinking pleasure.

Fllw n twr @WnCnry10

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

BY LEN NAPOLITANO

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

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

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

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

What is Residual Sugar?


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ODETTE ESTATE

Welcome to Odette Estate, Stags Leap District newest winery.We invite you to visit our vibrant tasting room.

Open daily for tastings 10:30 am 4 pm by appointment.

To schedule your visit please call 707.224.7533or visit www.odetteesate.com.

ODETTE ESTATE WINERY

5998 SILVERADO TRAIL NAPA, CA 94558

100% Organic Grapes, Estate Grown Napa Valley WinesHill Wine Company Specializes in small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon,Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc to ensure the highest quality wines.

Come sit back relax and taste the difference in our wines at the estate

craftsman tasting room or walk our estate olive orchard and grounds.

Of every bottle sold, a portion is donated to the ASPCA

Open Daily 10am-5pm

[email protected]

www.hillwinecompany.com1001 Silverado Trail South, St Helena CA 94574

1


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BY JOSH STEIN

Every grape vine pretty much looks like every other one, right?Well, while driving past them it may seem to be the case, but the

truth is small differences in the shape of the vines can have major

impacts on wine quality, yield, bouquet, taste and mouthfeel. Believe

it or not, the shape the grapes are grown within has a major but often

unrecognized impact on what ends up in your glass. Trellising is

dirty, un-sexy work, but its the lifeblood of growing great wines. The

canopy is what converts sunlight into wine, so its vital on many

levels.

Each style of trellising has to take into account a number of

variables along the way to creating a structure which allows for vine

balance; thats whats key to producing grapes with lots of flavor

without damaging the vine or its roots through stress, over- or under-

cropping, or mismatching vine to location. These options include

number of shoots per vine, number of leaves per shoot, number of

clusters per shoot, orientation toward the sun, shading of the grapes

via the canopy, and the overall shape of the canopy, which is

determined by the guidewires of the trellis. There are dozens of

possible combinations in commercial use today.

There are two basic kinds of trellising, though, vis--vis variousways of positioning the shoots vertically to maximize access to

sunlight while maintaining less vigorous growth in poor, infertile

soils, or different styles of dividing the canopy vertically or

horizontally to control for vigorous growth in soil too-good for

grapevines. What? I sense you thinking: How can soil be too good

Everything youve absorbed about growing things the right way

the opposite for winegrowing. Soil that is too good encourages

excess leaves and excess fruit. The former stresses the vine and kee

it from putting its energy into the grapes. The latter dilutes the

flavors in the resulting wines. When winegrowers talk about

Balance is key, thats what they mean: all of the elements are

properly enfolded together.Some of the more common vertical shoot positionings, known

generally as VSP, take the forms of candelabra. Guyot divides th

vine quite low to the ground, leaving just two canes regrown each

year below guidewires, to which shoots will attach themselves. VS

generally makes the arms permanent, allowing for spurs on the arm

from which the vertical shoots grow, and Cordon goes one step

further with its permanency, with the shoots generally positioned

over and then back down so that the clusters are shaded from dire

sunlight.

In contrast, divided canopy trellising is designed to try to take

away excess growth by making the vine work harder for what it do

put out. Winegrowers do this by creating more sections with morcanes, shoots and/or cordons. Scott Henry creates multiple vertic

canopies, making the vine work twice as hard. California Sprawl

separates the canopy in two, flopping large sections of growth to

each side; Lyre uses movable guide arms to open or close the V a

the flop. Genva Double Curtain creates four cordons for each vine

doubling vine energy needs horizontally in contrast to Scott Henry

upright, split form.

Do the range of options really matter? Absolutely, as the trellis

style alone has been shown to have an impact on all levels of wine

expression: softening or hardening tannins; adding or removing

flavors, aromas, and range of ripeness options; effecting yield,

concentration and vine life. The term winegrowing is a bit of alinguistic oddity, for sure, but as you can see, its absolutely

appropriate. One of the reasons its quite fair to say civilization is

wine is that, unlike just about everything else we produce, wine

requires our constant attention even long before a single grape i

harvested or a bud breaks. Cheers!

Trellising: How Grapevines Got a Shape

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

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

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

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

Wine Support Services and SF-Integrated Vineyard Management.14 26 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574 P:707.244.4600

join us atourtasting

roomtasting

atjoin us

roomtastingour

tasting


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CALeNdAR oF eveNts | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

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ONGOINGNapa Valley Wine Train

Napa, www.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124 Mar 30: Moonlight Escape Apr 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27: Sip & Supper Apr 12: Murder Mystery Dinner Apr 26: Moonlight Escape June 21: Vintners Lunch, Judds Hill

ONGOINGSeminars & Tastings

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

ONGOINGJefferson House Reserve Room

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

ONGOINGV. Sattui WinerySt. Helena, 9am-5pm winter, no appt. necessary

www.vsattui.com, 707-963-7774 Premium tasting, daily, $10 Italian Marketplace with 200+ cheeses Deli with panini, sandwiches, crabcakes & more Weekend BBQ, wood-fired pizza, oysters, mozzarella bar 2 acres of tree-shaded picnic grounds

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD Wines

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

ONGOING

Tours and Tastingsat William Hill Estate Winery

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

ONGOINGVineyard & Winery Tours

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

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti Winery

Napa, www.andrettiwinery.com, 877-386-5070x227 Individual Tastings, $15

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

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

ONGOINGTastings & Tours at Artesa WineryNapa, RSVP, 877-224-8309, www.artesawinery.com Vino con Queso, Wine & Cheese Experience, $40 Daily Guided Tours

Vines & Wines, A Vineyard Tour, $40ONGOING

Bouchon Bakery Box Lunchat Reynolds Family WineryNapa, Have lunch waiting for you when you arrive for your tasting!Tasting & lunch, $30, $20/members, $40/reserve tastingwww.reynoldsfamilywinery.com, 707-258-2558, RSVP

ONGOINGEducational Tours & Wine Tastingat Castello di AmorosaCalistoga, www.castellodiamorosa.com, RSVP, 707-967-6272 R egular tour & tasting Reserve tour & tasting Tasting only Young adult tours Napa Valley Neighbor Program P rivate VI P tours

ONGOINGLive Music Fridays at Taste at OxbowNapa, time varies, 707-265-9600, www.tasteatoxbow.com

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

ONGOINGWine Tasting Experiences at Benessere VineyardsSt. Helena, www.benesserevineyards.com, by appt 707-963-5853 x105 Personalized Wine Flights, daily, $10 Vineyards Walking Tour & Tasting, M-W, 10:30am, $15 Fudge Pairing Experience, Sun, 10:30am, $15 Barrel Tasting, RSVP, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $20 Barrel Tasting & Current Release, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $25 Barrel Tasting & Vertical, Tues, Sat-Sun, 11am, $25 Group Tasting, Sat-Sun, 1:30pm, $15

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

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Clos du ValNapa, daily 10am-5pm, www.closduval.com, 800-993-9463 Classic tastings, $10: fee waived with purchase of a bottle wine. Reserve tastings, $20: fee not waived with purchase of a bottle of wine. Tours by appointment with 24 hour advance notice

ONGOINGVIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory Tour

Bourassa Vineyards, Napa, Mon-Fri by appointment, $15 mid-week specialMention this listing, www.bourassavineyards.com, 800-499-2366

ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi WineryFor details, www.robertmondavi.com, 888-RMONDAVI x2 The Signat ure Tour & Tast ing T he Wine Tast ing Basics The Exclusiv e Cellar Tasting T asting Bey ond the Basic The Harvest of Joy Tour & Lunch

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado VineyardsNapa, www.silveradovineyards.com, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770 x611 Saddleblock Vineyard Tasting, by appt, $75

Library Tasting, by appt, $75 Daily Tasting Room Flights, Estate/$15, Premier/$25 Public Tours & Tasting, 10:30am & 2:30pm, by appt, $25 Private Tour/Tasting, 15-25 guests, by appt, $20/tour, $25/tour & tasting

ONGOINGNapa Valley MuseumYountville, www.NapaValleyMuseum.org, 707-944-0500 Mar 26: Spring Break Discovery Day for Kids, Time Capsule Memory Boo Mar 27: Spring Break Discovery Day for Kids, Ribbon Wind Socks Mar 28: Spring Break Discovery Day for Kids, Home Tweet Home Birdho Mar 29: Spring Break Discovery Day for Kids, May Day Flower Seed Bask Apr 4: Napa Valley Collects Preview Party Apr 12: Angels of the Valley Apr 13: Learning through Art & Family Fun Day, Paper Lanterns Apr 18: Adult Art Class, Accordion Book Making

ONGOINGNapa Valley Opera House1030 Main Street, Napa, www.nvoh.org, 707-226-7372

Mar 23: Paul Reiser Mar 24: International Film Series, Chronicle of My Mother Mar 26: Tuesday Night Flicks, A Place in the Sun Mar 29: Luciana Souza & Romero Lubambo Mar 30: Steve Tyrell with Diane Schuur Apr 6: Jesse Cook Apr 11: Documentary, Our City Dreams Apr 13: Kathy Mattea

ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back Room Wines

Mar 28: Rhone Wine Fan Club of Napa ValleyONGOING

Live at Uptown TheatreNapa, www.uptowntheatrenapa.com, 707-259-0123 Mar 21: Leo Kottke Mar 22: Boz Scaggs Mar 29: The Dan Band Mar 30: Crystal Bowersox Apr 12: Del The Funky Homosapien Apr 17: Dead Can Dance Apr 20: Helen Reddy May 18: An Evening with Adam Carolla with Dr. Drew

ONGOINGNapa Valley Performing Arts Centerat Lincoln TheaterYountville, www.lincolntheater.org, 707-944-9900 Mar 23: Grand Opening Celebration Apr 12: Grammy Award Winner Diane Schuur

with the USAF Band of the Golden West Apr 19-20: Angels of the Valley A Multimedia Concert Event

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daily: Valley First Tour Daily: Grgich Hills Estate Winery Tour Fri-Sun: Domaine Chandon Winery Tour Sat: Valleys only Evening Winery Tour Mon-Thu: Ambassador Winery Tour Mar 30: Moonlight Escape Apr 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27: Sip & Supper Apr 12: Murder Mystery Dinner Apr 26: Moonlight Escape


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ONGOING TUESDAYS & FRIDAYSOxbow Market Tour & Cooking ClassCooking With Julie, Napa, 8:45am-4:30pmwww.cookingwithjulie.com, 707-227-5036

TUESDAYS-SATURDAYS THROUGH MAY 31Historic Wineries of Napa County ExhibitGoodman Library, Napa, 12-4pmwww.napacountylandmarks.org, 707255-1836

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS

Winemaker Wednesdays at 1313 MainNapa, 6-8pm, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

ONGOING FRIDAYSBubbles Bar at 1313 MainNapa, 9pm-12am, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

FRIDAYS IN MARCHWine & Cheese Friday at Velo VinoSt. Helena, 4-7pm, Wines by glass $6, cheese plates $20www.cliffamilywinery.com, 707-968-0625

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYSBarrel Tasting & Tours at Reata

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

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYSFood & Wine Pairings at Etude Winery

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

ONGOING THROUGH MARCH 31

March is St. Clair Month

at Acacia Vineyard

Napa, www.acaciavineyard.com, 877-226-1700x2

ONGOING THROUGH APRILBlend Your Own Merlot

at Rutherford Hill

Rutherford, 11am-1pm, $95, $75/members, RSVPwww.rutherfordhill.com, 707-963-1871x2218

ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 5Serenity, Wonder, and Spirit by Jeffery A.

Davis Photography Exhibit at Mumm Napa

Rutherford, www.mummnapa.com, 707-967-7740

MARCH 22Pinot Noir Blending Session

at Domaine Carneros

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

MARCH 20Unbutton Your Mushroom RepertoireNapa Style, Yountville, 5-6pm, $25, RSVPwww.NapaStyle.com/culinary

MARCH 21-22Riverboat Captains & Mansions District TourNapa Abajo Neighborhood, Napa, 10amwww.napacountylandmarks.org, 707-255-1836

MARCH 22

Peju Kitchen Series: Intimate EntertaininRutherford, 10:30am-1:30pm, $235www.peju.com, 707-963-3600

MARCH 23Oroppas 2009 Release Party

at Sterling VineyardsSt. Helena, 4-7pm, free/members, $30, RSVPwww.stclement.com, 707-963-7221

MARCH 23Beringer Vineyards Cellar Sale

St. Helena, 9am-2pm, www.beringer.com, 707-963-8989x2069

MARCH 23Grgich Hills Zinfandel Celebration

Rutherford, 11am-4pm, www.grgich.com, 707-963-2784

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ONGOING SATURDAYSJazz it up Wine & Concert SeriesFerrari-Caranos Seasons of the Vineyard, Healdsburg, 4-6pmwww.seasonofthevineyard.com, 707-431-2222

ONGOING WEEKENDSAlfresco Tasting at Muscardini CellarsKenwood, 12-5pm, 707-933-9305, www.muscardinicellars.com

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYMichel-Schlumberger Winery TourHealdsburg, 10:30am, $30, www.michelschlumberger.com, 800-447-3060

ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape GondolaGeyserville, 11:30am, $10, www.ryew.com, 707-431-4811

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSCome Crush With Us at Icaria Creek WineryWinemaker Jeff Smith leads a tasting of bottled & barreled wineswww.icariawinery.com, RSVP, 707-486-9623

EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAYSanta Rosa Original Farmers MarketSanta Rosa Veterans Building parking lot, 8:30am-noon, 707-522-8629

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

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY

The Art of Winemaking Workshop

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

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Syrah Hill Experience at Cline Cellars

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

www.clinecellars.com, 707-940-4061

ONGOING

Wells Fargo Center for the Arts

Santa Rosa, wellsfargocenterarts.org, 707-546-3600 Mar 23: In the Mood Mar 29: Cesar Millan Apr 2: Jeff Bridges & The Abiders Apr 6: Paquita La Del Barrio Apr 9: Beauty and the Beast Apr 10: SPANK! The Fifty Shades Parody Apr 13: Brian Regan Apr 14: Max Raabe & Palast Orchester Apr 21: Pops A Tribute to Neil Diamond Apr 25: Les Ballets Trockadero Apr 28: Milkshake May 3: David Sedaris

ONGOINGCooking Classes at Ramekins Culinary School450 West Spain St, Sonoma, Check website for schedulewww.ramekins.com, 707-933-0450

ONGOINGSpreckels Performing Arts CenterRohnert Park, 707-588-3400, www.spreckelsonline.com, 707-588-3400 Mar 23: The Sun Kings

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk Tavern

Sebastopol, www.hopmonk.com, 707-829-7300 Mar 21: El Radio Fantastique Mar 22: Jelly Bread Mar 23: Ghosts of Electricity Mar 29: Moonalice Mar 30: Elvin Bishop Apr 5: Lynx Apr 12: Little Tribe Childrens Foundation Apr 13: Bluetech

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernSonoma, 707-935-9100, www.hopmonk.com Mar 22: New Skye Mar 23: Timothy ONeal Mar 29: The Hellhounds Mar 30: 3 On a Match

Tours | Tastings | Pairings | Events Y707-967-6272 Y CastellodiAmorosa.com

Grand Barrel Room The Great Hall


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

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

MARCH 22Wine Tasting Basics: Play With Your Senses

Saracina Vineyards, Hopland, 4-6pm, www.saracina.com, 707-744-1671APRIL 19

First Annual Maker FaireMendocino County Museum, Willits, 10am-5pmwww.mendocinomuseum.org, 707-459-2736

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

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

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

APRIL 20Earth Day Dog Hike

Saracina Vineyards, Hopland, 10am-1pmwww.saracina.com, 707-744-1671, $30, $25/members

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

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

SAN FRANCISCO

ONGOINGRifugio Food & Wine Pairingwith Clif Family Wines

The Barn Group, San Francisco, www.thebarngroup.comMARCH 20

Howell Mountain Spring Wine Tasting

The Bently Reserve, San Francisco, 4:30-6:30pmwww.howellmountain.org, 707-965-2665

MARCH 26Nemerever Oakville Wine DinnerTasting & Dinner with Proprietor William NemereverTaj Campton Place, San Francisco, www.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

APRIL 6Art on the Bay & Silent AuctionEureka Ferry, Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco510-760-7033, 5:30-9pm, free admission

APRIL 10Mount Veeder Appellation

Spring Wine TastingThe Presidio Golden Gate Club, San Franciscowww.mtveederwines.com, 707-266-1296, 4:30-6:30pm

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

APRIL 16Tablas Creek Vineyard Seminar & WineJoin Jason Haas, Partner & GM, Tablas Creek, Paso RoblesTaj Campton Place, San Franciscowww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

MAY 7Barnett Vineyards Napa Valley Wine DinnerJoin David Tate, Winemaker, Barnett Vineyards, Napa ValleyTaj Campton Place, San Franciscwww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

MARIN COUNTY

ONGOING THROUGH APRIL 2Artisan Cheese, Please!Honoring Californias Artisan Cheese FestivalNicks Cove, Marshall, 415-663-1033, www.nickscove.com Mar 17-23: Nicasio Valley Cheese Company Mar 24-Apr 2: Bellwether Farms

ONGOINGMarin Center in San Rafael

www.co.marin.ca.us, 415-499-6800 Mar 21: Farm Day Mar 21: In the Mood Mar 22-24: Marin Primary & Middle School, The Odyssey Mar 23: Stapleton Ballet 25th Anniversary Swan Lake Mar 24: Marin Girls Chorus, Sing, Dance, Play Mar 30: Tina Malia Apr 1-4: Marin Speaker Series, Dr. Sanjay Gupta Apr 6: Marin Horse Councils Day of the Horse Ride to the Rescue Apr 11: Free Our Sports Youth Film Festival Apr 12-13: Viva Cuba Apr 13-14: Indoor Antique Market Apr 14-16: Marin Symphony, Remembrance & Renewal Apr 27: Hugh Masekela

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernNovato, 415-892-6200, www.hopmonk.com Mar 22: Kevin Russell

Mar 23: Soul Union Mar 29: Michelle Shocked with Pete Anderson Mar 30: Rock Candy Mar 31: Steve Kimock Apr 19-20: Jefferson Starship

MAY 1250th Annual Mothers Day BBQMartin Griffin Preserve, Stinson Beach, 11am-3pmwww.marinaudubon.org, 415-453-2216

ALAMEDA COUNTY

APRIL 20Food Truck Fanatics! Saurno BurgerRosenblum Cellars, Alameda, 12-4:30pmwww.rosenblumcellars.com, 510-995-4100

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

ONGOING

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

LIVERMORE

ONGOINGNiles Canyon RailwaySunol Depot, Sunol, www.ncry.org, 510-910-7024 Apr 6-7: Spring Steam Excursions

ONGOINGBankhead TheatreLivermore Valley Performing Arts Center, Livermorewww.livermoreperformingarts.org, 925-373-6800 Mar 23: Archetti Baroque Ensemble Apr 5: Jesse Cook Apr 6: Guest Conductor Potpourri Apr 10, 12-13: Menopause the Musical

Apr 11: Kathy Mattea Apr 14: The Beatles Concert Experience Apr 19: Vintage Takes, Modern Tributes Apr 21: Its Magic Apr 22: Arlo Guthrie Apr 24: The Paris Combo Apr 26: The Lettermen Apr 27: Debussy Trio

ONGOINGLive Music at The Winemakers Pour HouseLivermore, 925-215-2656, www.winemakerspourhouse.com Mar 21: BoSco Duo (Folk, Rock & Roll) Mar 22: Bay Are Artist James Nagel (Rock, Pop & Originals) Mar 24: Jon Williams, (Pop & Originals) Mar 28: Stripped Down Northern Static (Alt-rock, Retro/Classic) Mar 29: Meredith & the Mercenaries (Rock, Jazz, R&B) Mar 30: Joey T (Latin Jazz, Jazz, Soul, R&B)

ONGOINGWine Cave Tasting ExperienceWente Vineyards, Livermore, 4pm Sat/Sun, $10, $5/wine club membersRSVP, www.wentevineyards.com/caves, 925-456-2405

ONGOING THURSDAY - SUNDAYWine & Cheese PairingLa Rochelle Winery, Livermore, 12-4:30pmwww.LRWine.com, 925-243-6442

MARCH 23-24

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

MARCH 30Dessert & Wine PairingMcGrail Vineyards, Livermore, 12-4:30pm, $25www.mcgrailvineyards.com, 925-215-0717

MARCH 31Easter Egg Mystery DiscountsWestover Vineyards, Castro Valleywww.estoverwinery.com, 510-537-3932

APRIL 6Preserving 101 Demo ClassThe Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, Livermore, 10:30-1:30amwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2444, RSVP, free

APRIL 6

Winemaker Class: Aroma ChallengeMcGrail Vineyards & Winery, Livermore, 12-2pmwww.mccgrailvineyards.com, 925-215-0717, $35

APRIL 7Artist Reception: Photography by Ron & Lisa ReggeWente Vineyards Estate Winery, Livermore, 1-3pmwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2305

MAY 25-27Spring Open House at Thomas Coyne WineryLivermore, www.thomascoynewinery.com, 925-373-6541

MAY 25-27Spring Fling & Annual Whites SaleFenestra Winery, Livermore, 12-5pmwww.fenestrawinery.com, 925-447-5246

www.retzlaffwinery.com, 925-447-8941

ONGOINGSunset Cultural Center-CarmelCarmel, www.sunsetcenter.com, 831-620-2048 Mar 22: 1964The Tribute Mar 23-24: Monterey Symphony, Revolution Mar 23: Chamber Music Monterey Bay, Ying Quartet Mar 29: Steve Tyrell with Special Guest Diane Shuur Apr 3: Jeff Bridges & The Abiders Apr 5-6: Menopause The Musical Apr 14: Carmel Music Society, Takcs String Quartet Apr 17: Arlo Guthrie, Here Comes the Kid Apr 19: Storm Large Apr 20-21: Monterey Symphony, Merriment Apr 25: Medeski, Martin & Wood Apr 26: Chamber Music Monterey Bay, Enso String Quartet

EVERY THIRD WEEKEND OF THE MONTHPair Your Wine with Ice Cream at Kirigin CellarsGilroy, Pair your complimentary wine tasting with a cool Vino de Mocca IcCream Sundae! And stock the cellar 30% of 6 bottle purchases & 50% off cwww..kirigincellars.com, 408-847-8827

EVERY TUESDAYFocus on Monterey County WinesCepage Wine Bar, Rancho Cellars, Carmel, 3-8pmwww.ranchocellars.com, 831-625-5646

EVERY WEDNESDAYWine Down WednesdaysFortino Winery, Gilroy, 5-8pm, free, www.fortinowinery.com, 408-842-3305

MARCH 30Breakfast with the BunnyDevendorf Park, Carmel-by-the-Sea, 8:30amwww.carmelcalifornia.com, 831-620-2000, free

BAY AREA

SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ

& MONTEREY COUNTIES


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MARCH 31Easter BrunchBernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 11am-3:30pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $75, $32/kids

APRIL 1-5Comcast Spring BreakSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruzwww.beachboardwalk.com, 831-423-5590

APRIL 4-72013 Pebble Beach Food & WineVarious venues throughout Pebble Beach

www.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com, 866-907-3663

APRIL 12Wine, Art & Music WalkDowntown Pacific Grove, 6-9pmwww.pacificgrove.org, 831-373-3304

APRIL 1318th Annual Spring Forward Against CancerTop of the Ritt (E.C. Ritthenhouse Building), Santa Cruzwww.sccbg.org, 831-465-1989, $150, $300/couple, RSVP

APRIL 13Barrel Tasting & Futures Open HouseChateau Julien, Carmel Valley, $15, $10/memberswww.chateaujulien.com, 831-624-2600

APRIL 13-1456th Annual Good Old DaysCelebration & Music Festival

Downtown Pacific Grove, 10am-5:30pmwww.pacificgrove.org, 831-373-3304

APRIL 17Shake, Rattle & Roll Cocktail Series: Spring FeverSunset Lounge, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Carmelwww.hyattcarmelhighlands.com, 831-620-1234

APRIL 19-21Wildflower ShowPacific Grove Museum of Natural History, Pacific Grove831-373-3304, 10am-5pm

APRIL 25Winemaker Series:Pelerin Wines, Santa Lucia HighlandsPacifics Edge, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Carmelwww.hyattcarmelhighlands.com, 831-620-1234

APRIL 28Spring CelebrationCarmel Valleys East End Wine Row, Carmel Valley Villagewww.eastendwinerow.com, 1-5pm, $35

APRIL 28Big Sur International MarathonCarmel, www.bsim.org, 831-625-6226

MAY 11Afternoon TeaBernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 2-4pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $50

MAY 12Mothers Day BrunchBernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 11am-3:30pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $75, $32/kids

MAY 16Winemaker Series:

Joseph Swan Vineyards & Winery, Russian River Valley

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

MAY 25-2621st Annual Santa Cruz Blues FestivalAptos Village Park, Aptos, www.santacruzbluesfestival.com

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

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

MARCH 21J. Lohr Wine 101 Series:Sauvignon Blanc AppreciationSan Jose, 6:30-9pm, $30, RSVP, www.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

APRIL 5J. Lohr Wine Descriptor SeminarSan Jose, 6:30-8:30pm, $30, www.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

MAY 4-517th Annual A La Carte & ArtCastro Street, Mountain View, 10am-6pmwww.miramarevents.com 650-964-3395

MAY 18Bottle Your Own at Guglielmo WineryMorgan Hill, 10am-3pm, 408-779-2145, www.guglielmowinery.com

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

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

MARCH 23-24Pinot Paradise Santa Cruz MountainsWinegrowers AssociationVisit participating wineries & events in Campbell, www.scmwa.com

MARCH 30Eggstraordinary Egg HuntRoaring Camp Railroad, Felton, www.roaringcamp.com, 831-335-4484

MARCH 30-31Wine Tasting WeekendVilla del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

APRIL 13-14

California Central CoastOn30 Model Railroad ExhibitRoaring Camp Railroad, Feltonwww.roaringcamp.com, 831-335-4484

APRIL 20Spring Passport DaySanta Cruz Mountains Winegrowers AssociationVisit participating wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains!www.scmwa.com, 11am-5pm, $45

APRIL 27-28Wine Tasting WeekendVilla del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

MAY 25-26Wine Tasting WeekendVilla del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

MAY 25-2732nd Annual Civil War Battles & EncampmentRoaring Camp Railroad, Feltonwww.roaringcamp.com, 831-335-4484

ONGOINGSierra Railroadwww.sierrarailroad.com, Oakdale, 800-866-1690 Mar 23: Saturday Night Dinner Apr 3: Scenic Lunch

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

ONGOINGSacramento River Trainwww.sacramentorivertrain.com, 800-866-1690 Mar 23, 26, 30-31: Easter Egg Express

Apr 6: Great Train Robbery DinnerONGOING

Mondavi Center for the Performing ArtsU.C. Davis, www.mondaviarts.org, 866-754-ARTS Mar 23-24: Lara Downes & Build Mar 25: The 400 Blows and Antoine and Colette Apr 5: Bobby McFerrin Apr 6-7: Paul Dresher Ensemble Apr 11-13: Shantal Shivalingappa Apr 12: The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Apr 14: Alexander String Quartet 10th Anniversary Performance

with Robert Greenberg Apr 15: Il Trittico Apr 18: San Francisco Symphony Apr 20: Medewski Martin & Wood with Joshua Light Show Apr 24: Thomas Hampson, baritone with Jupiter String Quartet Apr 29-30: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

SUISUN VALLEY

THURSDAY NIGHTSDate Night at Mankas

Tapas Bar & Steakhouse

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

SUNDAY NIGHTSGrand Master Tasting

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

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

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

MARCH 22Pick Up Party

at Vezer Family Vineyard

Suisun Valley, 888-823-8463www.vezerfamilyvineyard.com

APRIL 145th Annual SVGGA Passport SundayVisit Suisun Valley Wine Country! 11am-4pmwww.suisunvalleywines.com, 707-864-0730, $40, $20/DD

APRIL 20Club Member Breakfast

at Mankas Corner

Vezer Family Vineyard, Suisun Valleywww.vezerfamilyvineyard.com, 888-823-8463

MAY 11-12Champagne & TreatsWooden Valley Vineyards, Suisun Valleywww.woodenvalley.com, 707-864-0730, 11am-4pm

MAY 17

Food & Wine Patio NightsWooden Valley Vineyards, Suisun Valleywww.woodenvalley.com, 707-864-0730, 4-8pm

MAY 18Formal Concert


MAY 31Pick-Up Party


CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

SOLANO COUNTY

Check the website for many more event

www.winecountrythisweek.com

email Your evns o

[email protected]

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

weeks prior to the date of your event. Event listin

are free, and published as space is available and a

the discretion of Wine Country This Week.


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WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK | WiNe CouNtRY NeW

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

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

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

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

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

VINTNERS INN

Forty-four spacious rooms and suites with balconies or patios;

surrounded by vineyards. 1-800-421-2

4350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa www.vintnersinn.c

CALDERWOOD INN

An historic Victorian Inn in the heart of Healdsburg

25 W. Grant Street, Healdsburg 1-800-600-5

[email protected] 707-431-1

HILTON GARDEN INN

2200 Gateway Court (707) 426-6

Fairfield www.hiltongardeninn.c

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES

316 Pittman Road (707) 864-3Fairfield www.hiexpress.c

LONE OAK LODGE

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

SONOMA COUNTY NORTHERN

MONTEREY BAY/CENTRAL COAST

FAIRFIELD/SUISUN VALLEY

SONOMA COUNTY COAST

SONOMA COUNTY SOUTHERN

NAPA VALLEY

CANDLELIGHT INN

Private baths; TV/phone and AC;

two-person marble jacuzzis

and fireplaces; balconies or decks;

three-course gourmet breakfast,

hors doeuvres, wine and sherry

in the evening;

luxurious 30'x60'; swimming pool

1045 eam dr, Napa1-800-624-0395canllhnn.cm

LODGINGLook for more lodging options owww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Alxanr vally Wnrwr h pnn clbrana trn ol sn Wnry

Taste Alexander Valley, celebrating its 16th year, will be held May

17, 18 and 19 in Sonoma Countys majestic Alexander Valley

appellation.Nearly 30 wineries will open their vineyards, cellars and tasting

rooms for guests to enjoy the latest releases of world class wines from

grapes grown in the fertile Alexander Valley.

The weekend kicks off with an opening celebration Friday

evening, May 17th at Trione Vineyards & Winery in Geyserville, just

north of Healdsburg (www.trionewinery.com).

Running from 5 to 8:30 p.m., the outdoor celebration will feature

reserve and library wines from throughout the Valley, allowing guests

to interact and mingle with local vintners, growers and winemakers.

Local guest chefs Josh Silvers of Jacksons Bar & Oven; Jeff Mall of

Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar; and Carlo Cavallo of Sonoma Meritage

will create a variety of seasonally influenced small plates for guests toenjoy while taking in the panoramic views of the Triones Geyserville

Ranch. Live music will round out the celebrations wine country

setting.

On Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m

wineries will host individual parties at sites throughout Alexander

Valley. Wineries will create colorful and engaging decorative

environments for their TAV guests, often including live music and

entertainment to enhance the wine and food offerings.

Weekend passes and Opening Celebration tickets are available

www.alexandervalley.org. Passes are $65 in advance and $75 at the

door. Tickets for the Opening Celebration are $95 in advance only

and may be purchased with a weekend pass for the best value pric

of $150, with limited availability.

This years participants are Alexander Valley Vineyards, Arbio

Cellars, Clos du Bois, deLorimier Winery, Draxton Wines, Field St

Winery & Vineyard, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Garden Creek

Hanna Winery & Vineyards, Harts Desire Wines, Hawkes Wine,

Icaria Winery, J. Rickards Winery, Kelley & Young, Medlock Ames

Pech Merle Winery, Pendleton Estate, Quaking Hills Winery, Rodn

Strong Vineyards, Sapphire Hill Winery, Simi Winery, Soda RockWinery, Starlite Vineyards, Stonestreet Winery, Stryker Sonoma,

Stuhlmuller Vineyards, Trione Vineyards & Winery and White Oa

Vineyards & Winery.

16th Annual Taste Alexander Valley, May 17-1


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ARtesA goes sAiLiNgBY MIKE HYLAND

Without a doubt, the Artesa winery and tasting room is one

the most unique in all of wine country. Set high into a hilltop w

some pretty incredible views of the Napa Valley, San Francisco B

and 350 acres of its own estate vineyards, it is no wonder that

Artesa is called the Jewel of Carneros.

Owned by the Raventos family of Spain, whose winemaking

history goes back more than 500 years where a will, written by

Jaume Codorniu in 1551, was discovered and bequeathed win

cellars, presses, barrels and vats to his heirs. The name Artesa

comes from the Catalan word for handcrafted. Today, Artesa

focuses on producing small lots of premium varietals for which

Carneros and the Napa Valley are best known Chardonnay,

Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The entire facility was designed by renowned Barcelona

architect Domingo Triay, built in the early 1990s, and conceived

to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The natur

insulated winery is set into the highest hill of its vast estate, witprotective covering of reserved earth and native grasses. A

sweeping staircase set between twin cascades of water and

fountains leads to the winery entrance. An expansive terrace off

360-degree vistas of the surrounding countryside, and on clear

days, a view of the San Francisco skyline!

So whats all this about sailing? You may have heard that the

city of San Francisco will be hosting the 2013 Americas Cup

sailing race in September. To celebrate the momentous occasion

Artesa has introduced its International Tapas and Wine Pairing

program. This tasting is available daily at 2:30 p.m. and

ARTESA VINEYARDS & WINERYOpen daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.1345 Henry Road, Napa CA 94559

(707) 224-1668 | www.artesawinery.com




reservations are required in

advance. Artesa invites you to

come and savor their beautiful

wines paired with delectable

foods from the five countries

participating in one of the

oldest competitive international

sports.

The special menu pairing

flavors of the world with Artesa

wines features the following:

From Finland, a duo of caviars

with crme fraiche, fresh chive

finishes the bite atop a crispy

potato chip and paired with the

Grand Reserve Codorniu

Sparkling wine. The second

flavor comes from New

Zealand, and is a juicy sweetKiwi wrapped generously in

prosciutto served with the 2011

Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley.

Next up is imported cheeses

from France: Fromage de

Meaux & Comte with baguette

and paired with the 2010 Estate

Reserve Pinot Noir, Carneros.

Italy is represented in the

tasting with locally cured and

thinly sliced Italian charcuterie,

Lonza and Umbrian, beautifully

paired with the 2009 Merlot,

Napa Valley. The final course

comes from the United States, a

chocolate velvet cupcake with

semi-sweet frosting presented

with the 2009 Artisan Cabernet

Sauvignon, Napa Valley.

The cost to tour the world of

sailing all in one spot is $60 per

person and is limited to eight

guests. The pairing alsoincludes a short tour prior to

the seated program. You can

book your reservation online at

www.artesawinery.com/tours or

by calling 1-888-679-WINE.

And if the International Tapas

and Wine Pairing just dont

seem to float your boat, there

are seven other tours available

that will more than fill the bill!


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WiNe CouNtRY NeWs | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

Take a break from touring the wineries of Suisun and Napa Valley and refre

yourself at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center by taking a candy factory tour in Fairfi

You dont have to be a jelly bean fanatic to find something interesting here. Th

company has created a traveler-friendly spot at their state-of-the-art working

factory to learn all about the Jelly Belly jelly bean-making process.

Jelly Belly makes more than 100 different flavors of Jelly Belly jelly beans an

also more than 100 other confectionery delights. All of which can be found at

Visitor Center Store including the Chocolate Shoppe for hand-dipped delicaci

and Jelly Belly Caf where you can find bean-shaped pizzas and burgers.

Located in Northern California off of Interstate 80 near the junction of

Highway 12, the tour center is the perfect place to stop for a total Jelly Belly

experience.

The free walking tour of the candy factory begins in the spacious Visitor

Center and leads visitors on a 40 minute tour inside the 215,000 square-foot

factory. Visitors learn how the Jelly Belly jelly bean got its name and why it tak

up to 21 days to make a Jelly Belly bean.

Also at the Visitor Center youll find an enclosed patio and grassy area idea

picnickers, theres even a small dog walk for your furry four-legged friends tostretch their legs! The Jelly Belly Visitor Center Store carries many souvenirs an

all of the jelly beans and confections made by Jelly Belly. Make sure to pick up

factory seconds called Belly Flops and post-season sweets and gift items at d

discounts on occasion.

The Jelly Belly Visitor Center is open daily. Free tours Monday through Sun

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The factory operates Monday through Friday. Our candy-mak

are off on the weekends so factory tours are quiet and monitors along the

walkway take over to show guests how the Jelly Belly jelly beans are made. Tou

information and special events listings available online at www.jellybelly.com o

call 1-800-953-5592. No reservations required wheelchair and stroller accessib

Sweet Beans atJelly Belly Visitor Cente

Present this offer at the

JELLY BELLY VISITOR CENTERfor

20% Off Your Purchase!**Belly Flops, sale items and caf not included.

Code: WCTW 3/13 Expires: 5/1/13

JELLY BELLY VISITOR CENTEROne Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield, CA 94533

800-953-5592 JellyBelly.com



WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK | WiNeRY FeAtuR

&

(877) 586-9361

0-4:30 |Outdoor Patio - Catering Available - Manicured Gardens - Private Tasting Room

Trendy Boutique Feel - Food & Wine Pairings - Ample Parking - Shaded Areas

2

The Bay View Restaurant & BarTraditional Italian Cuisine & Local SeafoodCocktails on the Patio or at the Hearthside Lounge

Dinner with the Winemaker Monthly SeriesSaturday Night Piano Bar

Family Gatherings, Banquets & Receptions Welcome

DINNER SERVED Wednesday - Sundays

THE INN AT THE TIDES800 Hwy. One, Bodega Bay

www.InnattheTides.com (707) 875-2751

2012 Winery of the YearWinemaker Challenge N Monterey Wine Competition

San Francisco Bay Guardian

wines sold exclusively at the winery

V. Sattui WineryUHWH]HSSL`

Everything You Want When You

Visit Legendary Napa Valley

ulcxedlosseniw

yreniwehttaylevisu


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www.WnCnrythWk.c

oN tHe CoveR | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

26

When they were roommates at Tulane University in the early 90s, no one knew t

Christopher Medlock James and Ames Morison would one day take on the challeng

growing and making wine. But thats exactly what they did in 1998, when they searc

for and found a very special 320 acres of land on Bell Mountain in Alexander

Valley. In the late 90s, todays sustainable and organic farming movement was in its

infancy. But, Chris and Ames were confident about producing wine sustainably, andthey founded Medlock Ames upon some strong principles.

Medlock Ames is dedicated to crafting small amounts of quality, artisan wines in

ethical way through the practice of environmental sustainability. Only 56 acres of

stunning, almost magical land of Bell Mountain is planted to grapevines. The rest is

nearly untouched, dedicated to olive trees, vegetable gardens, solar-power arrays and

rainwater collection ponds. The vineyards are farmed 100% organically with no

insecticides, chemical fertilizers, or herbicides.

Their commitment to the environment follows the grapes every step of the way fr

vine to wine. The winery building was constructed with thick stone walls to natural

maintain a proper temperature and utilizes a gravity-flow system to reduce energy

consumption and retain the grapes subtle, elegant characteristics. The cellars

underground location provides natural coolness, reducing the need for artificial

temperature control.

Medlock Ames Bell Mountain ranch has been identified as a near definition of

utopia by Food & Wine in its April, 2011 issue. Food & Wine identified what we

wine country are certain of: Medlock Ames Bell Mountain ranch is a special place. A

tour and tasting at Bell Mountain includes a walk through the organic vineyards,

winemaking facility and a stroll through the gardens for a taste of whatever is in seas

followed by a multi-wine flight tasting. Tours are $35 per person and can be booked

online at www.medlockames.com/visit-us/tasting-room.

In addition, in 2010, Chris and Ames opened a tasting room in Healdsburg, in th

MEDLOCK AMESOpen daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

3487 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg CA 95448(707) 431-1418 | www.medlockames.com

MedLoCK AMesA Truly Unique Wine Country Destination


27/88Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK | oN tHe Cov

2

Come and experience the history andpastoral setting with picnic grounds,a bocce court and a horse shoe pit.

Tours & Tastings offered daily

Exclusive Group & LunchPackages by appointment

Open Daily 11-56613 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, CA 94567(707) 965-1246 www.popevalleywinery.com

PREMIUM NAPA VALLEY WINES FOUNDED IN 1897

brilliantly restored 150-year-old building that formerly housed the

Alexander Valley Bar and Store. Nearly 80 percent of the materials

from the original building were salvaged and used in the

construction of the rustic, yet chic new space. Upon visiting to the

elegant tasting room, besides having the opportunity to enjoy

Medlock Ames wines, guests can enjoy fresh produce in season

from the propertys organic gardens. Wine and food pairings are

available by appointment and feature seasonal produce harvested

fresh from the tasting room gardens, plus cheese and charcuterie

from the finest local purveyors.

Nestled behind the tasting room sits the speakeasy-style

Alexander Valley Bar. The AVB (as the locals call it) features dcor

that is a cozy cross between turn-of-the-century saloon and

modern cocktail den with a tin ceiling and warm shades of walnut,

oak and redwood. It even has an old-fashioned photo booth. The

bar menu highlights seasonal cocktails using ingredients from the

adjoining gardens, local microbrews, artisan spirits, and of course,wines from Medlock Ames and neighboring wineries. Our

recommendation for a perfect afternoon? Book a 4 p.m. wine and

food pairing at the Medlock Ames tasting room and follow it up

with garden-inspired cocktails and a stunning sunset when the

Alexander Valley Bar opens at 5 p.m. To make a reservation, visit

www.medlockames.com/visit-us/tasting-room.

Medlock Ames is an inspired destination where visitors are

delighted to discover delicious, limited production, organically-

farmed wines and a truly unique wine country experience.


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28

Zd WiNesZero Defects, All Fun!

BY JOSH STEIN

Long before Napa was world famous, wine countrhad its intrinsic appeals: a slow pace of gradual

movement, an appreciation for the Valleys environs,

working with and not against Nature. That feeling o

connectedness is what ZDs tasting room, their range

fantastic estate and organic wines, and various tasting

experiences are designed to let you feel for yourself

and its why theyre our tasting room of the week!

ZD stands not only for its founders initials but als

for Zero Defects, which aptly describes not just the

wines but the time spent at this perfect place in the h

of the Silverado Trail. Norman deLeuze and partner

Gino Zepponi the ZD in ZD Wines were twoaerospace engineers with a love of Pinot Noir and

Chardonnay who received the first new Sonoma Cou

permit in decades when they fell in love with Carner

in the 1970s. This new winery permit allowed the

multiple-generation family winery to thrive this long

because they know how to take the best the Valley gi

them and put it into the bottle for others to enjoy, as

evinced by the wall of awards tucked discreetly to the

side in the tasting room.

ZD are producers of more than excellent Caberne

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir plus some very special

winery-only bottlings, known as the Rosa Lee Whim

including, at various times, releases of Barbera,

Grenache Ros, Malbec, Muscat Canelli, Mourvdre,

Petit Sirah, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Viognier the

newest is a delicious and rarely seen Charbono, relea

on March 1st, with a new Smillon to follow on June

1st. In 1999, ZD introduced something equally uniq

their Abacus wine, a solera-style multiple-vintage

blend of every ZD Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ever

produced, which is held in the barrel until bottling.

Every year since, a limited amount is bottled and tha

years new vintage Reserve Cabernet is added back tobarrels.

The property is in the heart of the motherlode of

California wine, so it doesnt get any better if youre

going to pick only one spot to really get to know Nap

Youll be told that when ZD Wines does something, t

do it with No halfways, and theyre absolutely right

Tasting options include current releases, reserve

bottlings and a special Chardonnay retrospective,

allowing you to taste the house style and see its differ

expressions over time.

ZD WINESOpen daily from 10 a.m. to 4;30 p.m.

383 Silverado Trail, Napa CA 945581-800-487-7757 | www.zdwines.com


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Only available at winery. Not applicable online. Oer expires 06/30/2013.

ZD Wines also offers special tours and tastings by appointment

only. Weather-permitting, the Eco Tour provides the opportunity for

conversation about the ZD estate and its practices. As you walk the

perimeter of the property, you are exposed to all the various ways in

which ZD and its people act as conservators: organic farming, cover

crops, insectiaries, owl boxes, composting and vermicomposting, useof biodiesel for all equipment, hybrid vehicles for everyone, solar

panels, waste reduction, water recycling and high efficiency use, four-

stage chilling to match power to task at hand, and on and on. The

winery even pays employees a daily incentive to carpool!

Among a half dozen always changing options, the Private Group

Tasting provides a relaxed experience where groups of eight or more

people can enjoy a private tasting of ZDs classic wines in the cellar,

and the Cellar Tour and Tasting allows visitors to enjoy several

current vintage and reserve wines with a private guided tour through

the cellar and a sampling of wine maturing in the barrel. Most

enjoyably, the Vineyard View Tasting provides a selection of curren

reserve and library wines in crystal stemware in the eponymous ro

with its west-Valley-facing floor-to-ceiling windowed space and

exterior deck above the crushpad at the top of the winery. From

there, you can see almost all of the property as you enjoy the winecomplemented by artisan cheeses and finished with a decadent

chocolate truffle.

Last but not least, like many others, ZD has a wine club, called

First Taste, but unlike other clubs, you select what, when and how

much youd like sent. That guarantees the club members dont ju

feel special at the winery and makes sure there are zero defects in

every shipment. And that really sums up the ZD Wines experienc

everything has been tastefully and thoughtfully been considered

ahead of time, guaranteeing your time is enjoyably well spent.

Continued


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WiNeMAKeR PRoFiLe

FRed NiCKeLJaxon Keys Winery & Distillery

BY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

The mid-day sun beat down mercilessly from a white-h

Western sky as Fred Nickel (aka Lead Nickel) faced his

opponent in the middle of the dusty ghost town street. A b

of sweat trickled its way slowly down his chiseled face as h

swore under his breath and prepared to draw his gun

Fred Nickel, Winemaker for Jaxon Keys Winery &

Distillery, is an avid participant in Cowboy Action Shooting

its what he does for fun. Cowboy Action Shooting is a

shooting sport in which contestants dress in period costum

and compete with firearms typical of those used in the tam

of the Old West. The competitions are staged in an Old Wstyle and shooters compete on a timed basis. Each scenario

they are called, features an array of situations, many based

famous incidents or movies scenes, in which the contestan

must shoot at steel targets.

When not shooting down opponents, Fred spends muc

his time making wine and fine brandy at Jaxon Keys Winer

& Distillery. This is a man who loves what he does and wh

he lives he is a Mendocino County winemaker at heart.

After graduating from UC Davis in 1979 with a major in

Enology and a minor in Viticulture, Fred worked for some

very well-known Mendocino County wineries, including

Fetzer, Parducci, Kendall-Jackson (he was their firstwinemaker), Parsons Creek, McNab Ridge, Zellerbach,

Brutocao and in 2009, he started working with Ken and D

Wilson at Jaxon Keys Winery & Distillery.

Freds winemaking philosophy involves patience (know

when to step away and let the wines mature) and knowing

exactly what the grapes on the estate are capable of.

I tasted a handful of Freds wines during my visit and th

were all absolutely delicious! The following wines were my

favorites:

2010 Estate Chardonnay $18: This Chardonnay is very

Chablis-like its crisp and clean with abundant green app

citrus and mineral notes from the first sniff, through the lon

juicy finish.

2010 Estate Maes Block Zinfandel ($24): Seductive scen

of blackberry, plum and bramble are enhanced by peppery

spice. The mouthfeel is plush and loaded with black fruit,

spice and mocha flavors, which linger on and on.

Take my advice and wander on up to Jaxon Keys Winer

just north of Hopland in Mendocino County, say hello to

Lead Nickel, and taste his wonderful wines. Just dont say

draw!

JAXON KEYSWINERY & DISTILLERY

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.10400 U.S. 101 Hopland, CA 95449

1-877-462-0666 | www.jaxonkeys.com


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CoNCieRge Q & A: What are your personal favorites?

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

CoNCieRge FAvoRites | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

Rbr spnraCHIEF CONCIERGETHE RITZ CARLTON SAN FRANCISCO

MEMBER: LES CLEFS D'OR USA

WCtW: If you were to visit just one winery,which would you choose and why?Rs: Many of our guests at the Ritz-Carlton SanFrancisco are looking for the ultimate experienin the Wine Country. One of the options we likto suggest is a private tour and tasting at theKenzo Estate. The combination of the spectacunatural setting, the prestigious vintages, famous

name winemakers and the superb hospitalitymake this an ideal and refined destination. Wesuggest that our guests book a seated tasting onthe patio with the specially selected food paringwhich matches the wines with signature dishesfrom Thomas Kellers Bouchon Restaurant another famous name in the Wine Country.WCtW: Which winery has your favorite cave/cellar tour?Rs: Most guests love cave tours and they reallstimulate the senses! One of my favorites wouldbe the Del Dotto Venetian Estate Winery. Thcaves are a work of art with textured stone waelaborate chandeliers made of Murano glass, an

silver candelabras flickering down the barrel lincorridor. For a dramatic setting this one isincomparable.WCtW: Whats the best wine country picnic spRs: One of the most charming family run wineraround is Sullivan Vineyards in Rutherford.

With advance arrangements you can enjoy alovely day of exquisite food and wine on theoutdoor patio outside of the Sullivan home. If yhave already been to the big names in the winecountry this experience will have you feelinglike you are part of the family at this very speciboutique winery.

Jm AnrnCHIEF CONCIERGE

THE FAIRMONT SONOMA MISSION INN & SPA

WCtW: Describe the perfect day in wine country.tW: A perfect day in Sonoma starts with adelicious breakfast at the Sonoma Golf Club,affiliated with The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn& Spa. Sit back and enjoy their signature lemoncottage cheese pancakes, while overlooking thescenic golf course and sipping your mimosa.

Afterward, head over to Robert HunterWinery for their unique garden tour at their

private estate. I am fond of their sparkling andPinot Noir.

Then its off to the VJB Vineyards & Cellarsto taste their wonderful Italian varietals and for alittle lunch from their Mercado. They are servingdelicious grilled paninis and pizzas from theirbrick oven, and have great picnic tables in thepatio of their brand new Villagio.

After a short drive across the valley, you willarrive at Repris, Sonomas newest and mostexciting winery (open by appointment only).Their friendly crew tours you through theirfacility and into their enormous 18,000-square-foot caves for barrel tasting. Then they load youinto an ATV and whisk you through the vineyards

to the top of the mountain. Youre now lookingdown at the entire valley with views spanning allthe way to San Francisco. What a jaw droppingview!

Now for a little pampering, Fairmonts WillowStream Spa, offers a wide array treatments tosooth your stress away. Start with a soak in the hotspring pools which are filled from a naturalspring. Your Provider will come for you for yourhot stone massage.

Now if you are not completely mush, its timefor the Chefs tasting menu with wine pairing inSant, the resorts signature fine dining restaurant.

Jl ChrnnCONCIERGE, ANDAZ NAPA

JC: Im not the type to say, You have to go here its my favorite! Everyone is different, and withmore than 400 wineries in Napa alone, there areenough wineries to please every palette.

Personally, I have some that are varietal-specific,others because of great wine and gorgeousgrounds (Newton), spectacular caves (HallRutherford), or fabulous food and wine pairings(Rams Gate)or all of the above (Quintessa).For a great introductory tour, I still think

Mondavis Signature Tour & Tasting is one ofthe best in the valley!

For those thirsty to learn more about wine,there are wineries that conduct blendingseminars, allow barrel tasting and, during harvest,even allow guests to actively participate inpunch-down. For wine blending, Conn Creekis fabulous andJoseph Phelps is veryeducational. For barrel tasting, I frequentlyrecommend Alpha Omega, Fontanella, FloraSprings Winery and Del Dotto.

For those who claim to have done Napa,sometimes its often a matter of looking beyondHwy 29 or the Silverado Trail. I love some of thesmaller wineries in Coombsville, but am also a big

fan of mountain Cabs, and have sent many guestsup-valley to Spring Mountain and HowellMountain. Youd be surprised how many wineriesare still not really on the map but have much tooffer to the most discerning critics. InCoombsville, I love Tournesol, Palmaz andCaldwell. On Howell Mountain, I loveOShaugnessy, Viader and Cade. On SpringMountain, I love Barnett, Vineyard 7 & 8 andSpring Mountain Winery.

One of the most gratifying aspects of my job iswhen guests come back to tell me how amazingtheir day was!


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Annal sa Lap drc vnyar vnnr (v2v)

xcl wkn chl fr Aprl 26-28Hailed by locals and visitors across the country alike as the must

do wine and food event of the season, Vineyard to Vintner uniquely

combines intimate vintner dinners, fun-filled open houses and

extraordinary wines from celebrated estates with extraordinary fare

from celebrated chefs.

Attendees will experience the best the appellation has to offer from

friendly tastings at the homes of small, family-owned properties to

exclusive wine and food pairing experiences at the Districts best

known winery estates.

The weekend kicks-off on Friday evening with an incomparable

food and wine experience among four distinctive, multi-vintner-

hosted dinners at Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Pine

Ridge Vineyards and Shafer Vineyards prepared by celebrated local

chefs including: Richard Reddington, Cindy Pawlcyn and Peter Hall.

A limited two-day dinner package that also includes a Saturday Open

House pass is $375 per person. A three-day dinner package includes

Saturday offerings and also includes Sundays Fiesta Brunch and

Tasting for $400 per person.

Saturdays Open-House festivities promise extraordinary experien

up and down the Districts three mile section of Silverado Trail. TheSaturday only Open-House ticket, which provides full access to all 1

member wineries from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., is $150 per person.

The weekend concludes with District-wide, vintner-hosted Fies

Brunch and Tasting at Silverado Vineyards from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p

for $60 per person, catered by the Michelin-starred Meadowood

Resort. Beyond the hearty, delicious fare, guests will experience th

worlds most expensive Sangria made from a blend of Stags Leap

District Cabernets and be the first at a sneak preview tasting of the

Associations highly limited the 2009 Appellation Collection

(released October 2013) truly a world exclusive.

This event has truly become an unparalleled appellation

experience, said Stags Leap District Winegrowers Board Presidenand winemaker and general manager at Chimney Rock Winery,

Elizabeth Vianna. We are so thrilled each year to welcome loyalist

and new friends to this very special neighborhood event.

Tickets to this world-class weekend in wine country can be

purchased via the SLDW website www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V o

phoning Executive Director, Nancy Bialek at (707) 255-1720.

Backstage Access to Napas Most ExclusiveNeighborhood for World-Class Cabernet


34/8834 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co


KNigHt WiNe touRsWine excursions for every palateBY DENISE OLLIFFE

Several tour companies in the Sonoma and Napa Valleys will guide visitor

through wine country. However, if youre seeking a unique, truly customized

tour, where you have a hand in planning a more personalized experience, th

Knight Wine Tours is a great way to go.

Since 2010, owner Stan Knight (a 20-year Napa Valley resident) has been

escorting visitors with ease and a flexible spirit through the back roads of win

country. With your preferences in mind, hell not only guide you to popular

well known wineries, but to hidden gems where the locals hang out.

on-f-a-kn, cmz r

Guests can opt to build your own wine country tour or choose from a

variety of specially themed itineraries that cover a range of interests: Wine

Country Romance, Taste of the Valley (popular with first-time visitors), Wom

of Wine Country (visits women-owned or managed wineries), Ghost Wineri

& Landmarks, Foodie!, Art & Artisans, Gardens and much more.

Starting with curb-side service right from your hotel or residence (providservice across the North Bay, including San Francisco), tours typically range

from six to eight hours, visiting top-requested wineries, as well as small,

boutique wineries with limited production, where guests often meet the

winemaker or proprietor even the winery hound. Its a chance to sample w

straight from a barrel in a wine cave, or learn about distinct fermentation

processes. With stunning scenery from every car window, the tours soothe th

soul. (Sonoma and Napa Valleys are likened to the countryside of Tuscany,

Italy.)

Most tours are led by enthusiastic owner Stan Knight, who has taken a

variety of wine education courses, managed winery renovation projects, spea

KNIGHT WINE TOURSStan will be happy to help you customize a dream Wine Country daytrip.

(707) 738-4500 | www.knightwinetours.com

Guests can ride in the new Flex Limite

Owner, driver

and tour guide,

Stan Knight

A happy customer


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French and enjoys sharing local history, and hosting frequent

international guests (15 percent of his business).

Stan says, We (once) arranged a private visit with owner Mike

Grgich of Grgich HIlls Estate for a group who had never travelled

outside of their native Croatia. Near the end of the winery visit, the

group, along with Croatian native Mike Grgich, was heartily singingold-world folk songs in Serbo-Croatian after a few sips of wine, of

course!

Bring Fido along, because Knight Wine Tours is a pet-friendly

service, visiting wineries that welcome your four-legged companions

with a scratch behind the ear (and a dog treat), or they can help

arrange for doggy day-care for your furry friend during the tour.

All tours feature a gourmet picnic lunch at a winery, where youll

be pampered with a tablecloth and silverware, and lots of vino!

Photography is thoughtfully taken throughout the day, and the best

images are sent to each guest as a Memories Photography gift,

following each tour.

Supplement your tour: Additional two-hour Next Level services

can be added to each tour, such as taking a detour to roll up your

sleeves at Napa Valleys Culinary Institute of America, where a chef-

in-training teaches your group how to whip up a tasty dish in the

CIA kitchen; or adventurous folks can opt for a private all-terrain-

vehicle (ATV) tour of Priest Ranch Vineyard, complete with a

progressive hilltop wine tasting. These Next Level services, and

more, can be arranged for an additional fee.

Fl h r

Small groups or couples are driven around in an all-wheel-drive

Ford Flex limited, taking guests where limousines cant venture.

Theyre roomy and fully loaded, with plenty of storage for all the

cases of wine scored along the way. Coolers are provided.

Another option for larger groups of up to 12 wine tasters is the

Club Van. These comfortable passenger vans are an alternative to

expensive limousines and party-buses, allowing guests on a budge

have more money for wine, art and other goodies discovered along

the journey.

If you prefer the comfort of your own car, for $50 an hour, Knig

Wine Tours will provide a designated driver and tour guide to

escort you while you swirl, sip and taste the day away. They also

provide services to and from airports, limousine service for special

events and more.

s h a, plan aha

From build-your-own to pre-planned theme tours, Knight Win

Tours arent your typical excursions. Filled with intriguing stops,

educated and attentive guides, and a personalized agenda, Knight

Wine Tours is a ride worth taking.

For information, or to set up a Knight Wine Tour, call (707) 73

4500. Stan will be happy to help you customize a dream Wine

Country daytrip.

A back roads tour stops at historic Nichilini Winery

Continued


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Wnry wll mark vnnr Hall f Fam nc' nny yaf accmplhmn wh a brhay gala, cak crancn an n hrh h yar.

On April 1, 2013 Miljenko Mike Grgich will celebrate his 90tbirthday. To honor Mikes achievements, the winery will release its

first-ever Paris Tasting Chardonnay at a special gala at the winery

April 13th and celebrate with events throughout the year.

Mikes life sounds like a Hollywood movie, journeying from a

peasant upbringing in communist Yugoslavia, to a winemaker

winning the Paris Tasting and then becoming a winery owner in th

Napa Valley. Mike arrived in the Napa Valley in 1958 after a four y

journey from Croatia and worked for some of Napas iconic winer

Souverain, Christian Brothers, Beaulieu Vineyards and Robert

Mondavi Winery, before becoming winemaker at Chateau Montele

At Montelena, he crafted the Chardonnay that beat the best white

wines in France in the now-famous 1976 Paris Tasting, helping toshatter the myth that only French soil could produce the worlds

greatest wines and drawing international attention to Napa Valley

wines.

On Independence Day 1977, Mike and Austin Hills broke grou

in Rutherford to build Grgich Hills Cellar. Since starting Grgich H

Mike has continued receiving international awards for his wines a

has been recognized for being a leader in sustainable vineyard

practices. Mike celebrated his 50th year of making wine in 2008,

same year he was inducted into the Vintners Hall of Fame. Today,

of Grgich Hills 366 acres are certified organic and the winery has

converted to solar power and is completely estate grown.

His influence has been so far-reaching that his famous beret, th

suitcase he carried to America, and a bottle of the 1973 Chardonn

that won the Paris Tasting are on display in the Smithsonian Natio

Museum of American Historys first major exhibition on food histo

FOOD: Transforming the American Table 1950-2000. In additio

a Croatian TV documentary about his life, Like the Old Vine,

premiered at the Napa Valley Film Festival in November 2012.

Visit www.grgich.com to see all of the winerys events, includin

special Gala on April 13th, and the inaugural release of the Paris

Tasting Chardonnay, crafted by Mike Grgich in the same style as th

Chardonnay that won the 1976 Paris Tasting. Given Mikes proven

track record of creating elegant wines that improve with age, thisChardonnay is sure to become a collectable. The winery will launc

birthday cake decorating contest with the chance to win a trip to

Napa Valley and celebrate Mikes 90 years of accomplishments wit

the famed winemaker.

Today, Grgich Hills farms its 366 acres naturally, without artific

pesticides or herbicides, and uses its passion and art to handcraft

food-friendly, balanced and elegant wines. Mike is assisted by his

daughter, Violet Grgich, Vice President of Operations, and his

n

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Nor Cal Edition - March 22, 2013