Nor Cal Edition – Dec 2, 2011
Transcript of Nor Cal Edition – Dec 2, 2011
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REE
TRENTADUE
ESTATE FAMILY
WINERY
PAGE 20
LOUIS M.
MARTINI
WINERY
PAGE 38
HOLIDAY WREATHS
AT CASTELLO
DI AMOROSA
PAGE 44
SONOMA
OLIVE
FESTIVAL
PAGE 56
WINERY S
TREASUR
ISLAND
PAGE 60
NEW YEARS EVE
ON NAPA VALLEY
WINE TRAIN
PAGE 31
YOUR GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA WINE, THINGS TO DO & EVENTS www.WineCountryThisWeek.c
DECEMBER 2, 20
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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
Trentadue Family Estate Winer
Mark Beringer, Artesa Winer
ON
THE
COVE
R
28
Louis M. Martini Winer
Prager Winery & Port Work
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D E C E M B E R 2 , 2 0 1 1 I S S U E 4 9 V O L U M E 3 0
ON THE COVERPrager Winery & Port Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
SPECIAL COUPONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
WINE COUNTRY NEWSNorthern California Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Wineology by Len Napolitano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Wine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-18
WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
SUISUN VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Suisun Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35-45Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
St. Helena Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41
Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44-45
SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-61Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Healdsburg Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-59Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Sonoma Plaza Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Glen Ellen & Kenwood Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
TREASURE ISLAND TO LIVERMORE VALLEY . . . . . . . . . 60-61
Treasure Island Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Livermore Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62-63Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
NORTHERN CENTRAL COAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64-66Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . 64
Salinas Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-78
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
ALDERBROOK WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 50
ANDRETTI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 5
BALLETTO VINEYARDS Complimentary tasting with ad 49
BERINGER VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting in the Rhine House with ad 33BLUE VICTORIAN $10off any redwine purchase 34
BODEGA WINE ESTATES Complimentary tasting for 2 with ad 60
BOUCHAINE 2 for 1 tasting with ad 31
BRANNAN COTTAGE INN Call for special rates 44
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 56
ETUDE WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 10
FERRARI-CARANO 2 for 1 Classic Wines tasting with ad 73FRITZ WINERYMention ad for $5 off wine tasting 48
GOLDEN HAVEN Mud Treatment for 2, $54 per person 3
HAGAFEN CELLARS Free tasting for 2 with ad 4
HAHN WINERYComplimentary tasting for two with ad 66
JESSUP CELLARS Complimentary tasting for two with ad 43
KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY2 for 1 Reserve Tasting with ad 19
LOUIS M. MARTINI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 37
MacGRAIL VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting with ad 61
MARTIN RAY WINERY15% discount with ad49OLD 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
RODNEY STRONG Complimentary tasting/20% discount with ad 51
RUTHERFORD HILL WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad BACK PAGE
ST. CLEMENT WINERY2 for 1 tasting 6
ST. SUPRY2 for 1 tasting Monday-Thursday 7
STAGECOACH EXPRESS Complimentary shipping box 35
SUMMERS WINES 15% discount with ad 44
TASTE AT OXBOW Complimentary tasting 79
TURNBULL WINE CELLARS 2 for 1 tasting with ad 29
VEZR FAMILY VINEYARD $10 off any red wine purchase 34
VIANSA WINERY2 for 1 tasting & 10% off purchase with ad 55
VINE HILL $10 tasting fee waived with ad 67
WILLIAM HILL 2 for 1 tasting with ad 33
*See individual ads for details.
Special Coupons
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Any chef who also loves wine will tell you never to use a wine in
your recipe that you dont think is good enough to drink. One thingmost agree on is to not use wines labeled as cooking wine. These
wines contain salt and do not have the complexity of flavor that youneed from this vital ingredient.
Using a quality wine doesnt necessarily mean that it has to be
expensive. It would make no sense to use a rare vintage of Bordeaux,either. However, you do want something with style, flavor and depth.
Depending on the type of wine, it could cost under $10 and stillprovide quality.
Wine used in cooking will gradually lose some of its alcoholic
strength as it is cooked. The longer it cooks, the more alcohol will beevaporated. What will remain are the basic flavors of the wine, which
marries with other ingredients in the pan. When choosing a wine for a particular dish, try to match the
primary flavor components of the wine with those of the dish. Here
are some dry table wines commonly used for cooking and their typicalflavor contributions:
Chardonnay: Green apple, butter, butterscotch, vanilla
Sauvignon Blanc: Herbal, vegetal, citrus Pinot Noir: Mushroom, red cherry, truffle
Merlot: Blackberry, cocoa
Zinfandel: Jam, blackberry, black pepper Cabernet: Cassis, black currant
Another factor to consider when cooking with wine is the timof the addition of the wine. The earlier the wine is added in
cooking process, the more alcohol will be evaporated. But there
cases when the alcohol is desired in the recipe. A splash of wine adnear the end of the process will retain nearly all of its alcohol conte
If youre thinking of using fortified wines like genuine Sherry, PMadeira and Marsala wines, be aware that they contain eleva
alcohol levels to begin with. Most also will retain a good amoun
their sweetness, although some can be fully dry. Wine will boil at a lower temperature than water, around
degrees versus 212 degrees. So, if you substitute wine for water irecipe, remember to add cooking time to compensate for the low
boiling temperature.
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 co
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
Which wines are best for cooking?
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by Jeffry Ross
TheSkinny 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 stationTodd, the wine buyer, travels far and wide to find top-shelf, affordably pricedwines. Inside, youll find more than 200 different labels neatly arranged in caon 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 timthats where you had to buy your music), the fun is going through all the casand finding something youve never heard of. All the wines have been testdriven 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 WineGarage manages to do it all the time. The staff takes great pride hunting dowunusual and lesser-known, limited-production wines and passing their hagglfinesse 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 BevMTrader Joes or your local wine store (plus, they do a better job storing theirwines 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 theyship 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 cmembers get first crack to cream-of-the-crop finds).
Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisWeek.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY NEW
1
Quality Wines All Under $2at Wine Garage, Calistoga
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
12 Look for us on Facebook and become a Fa
ONGOINGNapa Valley Wine Trainnapa, 800-427-4124, www.wa.m
D 9, 23: Mud Mysy D
D 10: M esap D
D 12-14, 17-24: Saa expss
D 15: hday S-A w Adw M
D 31: nw Yas ev ta
ONGOINGJoseph Phelps Vineyards: Tastings & SeminarsA ppuy papa a wd a x smas. 1 us
11am day; 2:30pm, Mday-fday & 2pm, Sauday & Suday. $40, xp
isa Bd/$60, /w ub mmbs. ta ass day, $25
rSVP, 707-967-3720, das www.jpvws.m
isa Bd W Ama ca
S Vyad cabs fs & Pps
Ba sma
ONGOINGTaste at Oxbow Wine and Chocolate Pairingnapa, tas 5 as w 5 ws, $20, 12-7pm Suday u tusday
12-9 pm fday ad Sauday. rsvas mmdd. 707-265-9600.
ONGOING WEEKENDS EXCEPT 4TH WEEKENDSeminars & Tastings at Merryvale VineyardsS. ha, 10am-6:30pm, 707-963-7777, www.myva.m
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, 707-254-8673x119, www.aaws.m
ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Clos du Valnapa, day 10am-5pm, 800-993-9463, www.sduva.m
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
Jefferson House Reserve Room Tastingat Monticello Vineyardsnapa, rsv W Sma, cy famy napa Vay $25
rSVP 707-253-2802 x18, www.cyfamynapaVay.m
ONGOINGV. Sattui WineryS. ha, 9am-6pm, app. ssay, 707-963-7774, www.vsau.m
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 /mmbswww.udws.m, 707-257-5300
ONGOINGRombauer Vineyards
S. ha, 707 963-5170, www.mbau.m
fday-Suday: op by adva appm y
Mday-tusday 10am-5pm
tas $10
W & cs Pa day by appm y, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $25
ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD 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 Tastings at William Hill Estate Winerynapa, 10am-5pm, by app. 707-265-3024, www.wamsa.m
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)
800-525-2659x620, www.aymdvyads.m
ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti Winerynapa , 877-386-5070 x227, www.adwy.m
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
707-963-2784, www..m
ONGOING
Tastings & 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, 707-253-1400, www.baksawy.m
rua as, $10
rsv as, $35, Sa-Su
Asa s adda $7.50/ps
ONGOINGEducational Tours & Wine Tasting
at Castello di Amorosacasa, 707-967-6272, rSVP, www.asdamsa.m
rua u & as, $25-$40 rsv u & as, $35-$50
tas y, $10-$25 Yu adu us, $15-$20 napa Vay nb Pam Pva ViP us
ONGOING
Tastings & Seminars at St. Supry
rud, 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
ONGOING
Wine Tasting Experiences at Benessere Vineyards
S. ha, by appm
707-963-5853x105, www.bssvyads.m
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
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS
Cooking Demonstrations at The DeBaun Theatre
S. ha, cuay isu Ama a gys, 1:30-2:30pm, $20
W a samp p ad gys w
707-967-2320, [email protected], www.a.du
ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi Wineryf das, 888-rMonDAVi x2, www.bmdav.m
t Sau tu & tas t W tas Bass
t exusv ca tas tas Byd Bass
t havs Jy tu & lu
ONGOING
VIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory Tour
Buassa Vyads, napa, M-f by appm
$15 md-wk spa. M s s.
800-499-2366, www.buassavyads.m
ONGOING
Tastings at Silverado Vineyards
napa, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770x611, www.svadvyads.m
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 MONTH
Bacchus That Rascal
cs Pas, casa, , 2pm
Mu-mda psa hsy W
707-942-4981, www.spas.m
ONGOING SATURDAYS
Napa Riverwalk with Historian George Webber
2 u u w as & d w napa
10am, $20, 707-251-8500
SECONDSUNDAYS
Second Sunday Supper Club
AViA napa, napa, 5:30-7pm, $110www.avas.m, 707-224-3900
NAPA VALLEY
UPCOMING Daily: Vally firs tour
Daily: gri hills esa Wiry tour
fri-Su: Domai cado Wiry tour
Sa: Vallys oly evi Wiry tour
Mo-tu: Ambassador Wiry tour
D 12-14, 17-24: Saa exprss
D 15: holiday Si-Alo wi Adrw Moor
D 31: nw Yars ev trai
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT
ONGOINGNapa Valley Opera House1030 Ma S, napa, 707-226-7372, www.v.
D 3: Ba Bads
D 6: Sdm S cma, i a B Wd
D 7, 16: ma, smy & Voco
D 10: la Ma d n, napa Vay Ba
D 13: cmdy Ss, Dav Bu
D 14: nw cuy camb osa
D 16: Wdam h W Ss
ONGOINGLive at theLincoln TheaterYuv, 707-944-1300, www.a.m
D 3: Quy Js Pss Ad rduz t au nkk Yasky
D 4: cmpaa fama d Js P
D 11: napa Vay Sympy Baqu f hdays
D 13: Quy Js Pss Ad rduz t au rad Ba
ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back Room Winesnapa, 5-9pm, 707-226-1378, www.bakmws.m
D 1: tas Ws Dd Dauau
D 2: ca-r W Wak-Aud tas
D 8, 15, 29: tas Ws o gd
D 9: B a is & gd B n
ONGOINGdi Rosanapa, 707-226-5991, www.dsapsv.
o u fb 18: lk a Yu lk a M
ONGOINGLive at Uptown Theatrenapa, 707-259-0123, www.upwaapa.m
D 10: t Was
ONGOING FRIDAYS
Friday Night PulseTastingsAcMe f Ws, S.ha, 5-7pm, www.amws.m, 888-963-0440
ONGOINGFriday Night Winemaker EventsJV W & Sps, napa, 5-7pm, $2, 707-253 -2624, www.jvw.m
D 9: hday Bubbpaza! (campa)
ONGOINGTasting Events at Wineries of Napa Valleynapa tw c, napa, 707-253-9450
www.apavas.m, k wbs ms & ps
ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 15Toys for Tots at Turnbull Wine CellarsB a da w uwappd ys & v mpmay as &
a daw!
oakv, 707-963-5839, www.ubuws.m
ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 16Napa on Ice Outdoor Skating Rink2d & cmbs S, napa
$12/uds ska a. www.apa.m.
ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARY 3Calistogas Winter in the WineriesVs 15 casa ws s passp pam. $50
www.casaVss.m, 707-942-6333
ONGOING THROUGH MARCH 30
Abstract Visions,A Brett Weston Retrospective at Turnbul
tubu W cas, oakv, A mpsv xb ba
100 bday. www.tubuWs.m, 707-963-5839x15
DECEMBER 2-4White Barn Winter FairS. ha, 510-594-7614, www.wba.
DECEMBER 2-17The Twelve Days of ChristmasMadwd napa Vay, S. ha
www.madwd.m, 800-458-8080
DECEMBER 3Grgich Hills Wine Club Pick Uprud, 11am-3pm, www..m, 707-963-2784
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
DECEMBER 3Holiday Winemaker Dinner in the
Cask Room at Merryvale VineyardsS. ha, 7pm, $150, rSVP, 800-326-6069x429, www.myva.m
DECEMBER 3St. Clement Annual Holiday Open HouseS. ha, 11am-4pm, $15/mmbs, $20/a
www.sm.m, 707-265-5000
DECEMBER 3Beaulieu VineyardsHoliday Tree Decorating Partyrud, 2-4pm, $25/mmbs & uss
www.bvws.m, 800-373-2896, rSVP
DECEMBER 3Spotlight Holiday Party & Tree Lightingrb Mdav Wy, oakv5-7pmwww.bmdav.m, 800-rMonDAVi
DECEMBER 3Calistogas Lighted Tractor ParadeDww casa, 7pm, www.casaVss.m, 707-942-6333
DECEMBER 3Napa B&BHoliday Tour & Taste EventVs s s napa! 3-7pm
www.apadayu.m
DECEMBER 3-4Holiday Shopping WeekendSvad Vyads, napa, 10am-5pmwww.svadvyads.m, 707-259-6617
DECEMBER 3-4Rutherford Appellation Wineries Winter PassportVs papa ws d & w pas!
rud, 11am-4pm, www.ud-appa-ws.m
DECEMBER 3-4Rutherford Passport Weekendat Beaulieu Vineyardsrud, www.bvws.m, 800-264-6918
DECEMBER 46th Annual Hanukkah Hootenanny &
Wine Club Pick Up Party at Judds Hillnapa, 12-3pm, www.judds.m, 707-255-2332
DECEMBER 4Pickup Party at St. Supry
rud, W cub ev, www.ssupy.m, 866-612-2582
DECEMBER 10Chateau Society Holiday Dinner
at Domaine Carnerosnapa, 7:30-10pm, 800-716-2788, www.dmaas.m
DECEMBER 10Holiday Barrel Tasting & Pick Up Party
at Merryvale VineyardsS. ha, 1-4pm, $25, /mmbs
707-963-7777, www.myva.m
DECEMBER 102nd Annual Crab Feed & Release Partyat Acacia Vineyardnapa, 11:30am, $55/mmbs, $75
www.aaavyad.m, 707-226-9991
DECEMBER 10
Ehlers Estate Holiday Open HouseSip, Shop & SparkleS. ha, 10:30am-4pm, mpmay
www.ssa.m, 707-963-5972
DECEMBER 10Beaulieu Vineyards Wines for the Holidays Seminar
rud, 2-4pm, www.bvws.m, 800-373-2896, rSVP
DECEMBER 10Urban Wine CrawlVs 12 napa Uba Ws, 10am-4pm
www.ubawaw.m, 707-252-8665
DECEMBER 10Annual Holiday Candlelight Tourt casma Sy napa. tu 9 ms napa, 3-7pm
www.apauyadmaks., 707-255-1836
DECEMBER 1019thAnnualFestivalof Trees Fashion Show& Luncheonnapa Vay Sympy lau
Ma rs, napa, 10:30am-2:30pm, $90
www.apavaysympyau.
DECEMBER 10-11Annual Santas Helper Holiday Gift Fairenapa Vay exp, napa, 707-257-7144
DECEMBER 11
Holiday Barrel TastingVad Wy, D Pak, 12-4pm, $35, mmbs/
www.vad.m, 707-963-3816
DECEMBER 14Holiday Celebration at Mumm Naparud, 6-8pm, rSVP, www.mummapa.m, 800-686-6272
DECEMBER 18Holiday Tea at Domaine Carnerosnapa, 11am-12:30pm, 800-716-2788, www.dmaas.m
DECEMBER 31Black, White and Pink BallDa n Away ad Supp la Bas ca Pas
napa Vay W ta, $55pp, p://wa.m
ONGOINGLive Music at Centre du Vinlds h, Sma, 707-996-9779
www.ds.m
ONGOINGPrivate Tastings at Viansa
www.vasa.m, 800-995-7470
iaa W & cs Pa,10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm,
$10/mmbs, $25
rsv W & fd Pa, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm
/mmbs, $45
ONGOINGReserve Wine & Food Pairing
Private Tasting at Viansa
Sma, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appm
www.vasa.m, 800-995-7470, /mmbs, $45
ONGOINGCarneros Bistro & Wine Bar Introduces
Thematic Wine Programh aa wmaks.Pus, atusday,6:30-8pmby w-
ds.t lda Sma,rSVP, www.dasma.m,707-931-2042
ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshop
at B.R. Cohn Winery
g e, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/mmbs
707-931-7924x123, www.b.m
ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tasting
at B.R. Cohn Winery
g e, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/mmbs
707-931-7924x123, www.b.m
ONGOING
Private Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu Pk Bu v ws, 6-8 pp, $20-$40pp
by appm, 707-433-6700, www.a-aa.m
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, $20A 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
707-433-6700, www.a-aa.m
ONGOINGFree Guided Winery Tour
at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu Mday-Sauday, 10am, by appm
707-433-6700, www.a-aa.m
ONGOINGGroup Private Tastings
at Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Wineryhadsbu iuds 5 ws, 9-25 pp udud a, by
appm. $20 p ps, 707-433-6700, www.a-aa.m
ONGOINGTerroir & History Tour at Chateau St. JeaKwd, A vs caau S. Ja s a yu sss.
cmpmay, 11am-2pm, 707-833-4134, www.aausja.m
ONGOINGFood and Wine Pairing
at the Mayo Reserve Room9200 Sma hwy, Kwd, Day, 10:30am-6pm, 7 us d/w a
$35, rsvas mmdd, 707-833-5504, www.mayamywy
ONGOINGWine Experiences at Chateau St. JeanKwd, t ps mmum, 2 us, $50, by appm
707-833-4134x5258, www.aausja.m
cq cpas Bd Sma, e ps mmum, 2 us, $75
cq cpas cmp tas, e ps mmum, 1.5 us, $2
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 & sva
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, 707-996-7256, www.a.m
ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-Jacksonfu, Spa sv d & w as, 10am-4pm, $25
707-571-7500, www.kj.m
ONGOING SUNDAYSDomaine Carneros Sparkling Brunch
at the Fairmont Mission Inn & SpaSma, 9am-1pm, 707-938-9000, www.am.m.sma
ONGOING SUNDAYSSunday Brunch at the Centre du Vin
lds h, Sma, 9am-1pm
www.ds.m, 707-996-9779
ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz Winerycvda, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 as vs pa
707-894-3389, www.zwy.m
LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH50 Mile AV Vintner's Diningg e,Ba as& odVPn& SyasmAsVya
fdssud ay. 4-7PM, rSVP,707-935-3456,asws.m
ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at AnabaSma, ejy mpmay s & aks pa w yu w
as. 4-5:30pm, 707-996-4188, www.aabaws.m
ONGOING THURSDAY SUNDAYUnique Food & Wine Pairings at HKGTasting Rog e, 12-6pm, 707-938-7622, www.pkwy.m
SONOMA COUNTY
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT
ONGOINGMoondance Cellars & Orchard Station Wines
g e, Pad w W cuy cas tu tass, $10
707-938-7550, www.mdaas.m
ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYMichel-Schlumberger Winery Green Tourhadsbu, 10:30am, $25, 800-447-3060, www.msumb.m
ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours
& Tasting in a Remodeled GrapeGondolagysv, 11:30am, $10, bx u pvdd $20
707-431-4811, www.yw.m
ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSCome Crush With Usat IcariaCreekWineryWmak J Sm ads a as bd & bad ws
rSVP, 707-486-9623, www.aawy.m
EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAYSanta Rosa Original Farmers MarketSaa rsa Vas Bud pak , 8:30am-, 707-522-8629
EVERY FRIDAY MORNINGSonoma Valley Farmers MarketDp Pak, Sma, 9am-, 707-538-7023
EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAYThe Art of Winemaking WorkshopP Vyads, Sma, 10:30am-12pm
707-935-8311, www.pvyads.m
ONGOINGCooking Classes at Ramekins Culinary School450 Ws Spa S, Sma, ck wbs sdu.
707-933-0450, www.amks.m
ONGOING
Wells Fargo Center for the ArtsSaa rsa, 707-546-3600, wsaas. D 9: Psada navda
D 10-12: Saa rsa Sympy S t
D 13: Davd Aua
D 15: rdy ca
D 16: ty B
D 17: Msw Bas nuak
ONGOINGSpreckels Performing Arts Centerr Pak, 707-588-3400, www.spks.m
D 3: VoenA
D 3-4, 8-11, 15-18: t Saaad Das
D 9-11: t nuak
D 16-18: t nuak
ONGOING
Live Shows at Hopmonk Tavern
Sbasp, 707-829-7300, www.pmk.m
D 9: t Pusas
D 10: Da Smk
D 16: W fudad tm Pay
ONGOING THURSDAYS
Winemaker Thursday Series at Big Bottom Market
guv, 6-8pm, 707-604-7295, www.bbmmak.m
ONGOING SATURDAYS
Swirl, 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 THROUGH DECEMBER 11
Popd From the Panel
cas M. Suz Musum, Saa rsa, www.SuzMusum.
ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 15
Minutely Personal
Qua gay, Duas Ms, Qua-gay.m, 707-865-0243
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ONGOINGSunset Cultural Center-Carmelcam, 831-620-2048, www.sus.m
D 2-3: Smu Ba hday Pam
D 9-11: nuak
D 16: Paua Puds
Ja 14: t Ks t
Ja 20: t Pk Abas
ONGOING FRIDAYSFromage Friday at Taste Morgant cssads cam ejy a spa s samp w yu as
Ma & l famy fam ws. 3-5pm
www.mawy.m, 831-626-3700
ONGOING SUNDAYSLibrary Sunday at Taste Morgan
t cssads cam A ppuy as sm d vas m
Ma Wys a. 2-5pm, 831-626-3700, www.mawy.m
ONGOINGLive Music at KRML Radiot easwd Bud, cam, 831-624-6432, www.kmad.m
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 THIRDWEEKEND OF THEMONTHPair 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
831-625-5646, www.aas.m
EVERY WEDNESDAYWine Down Wednesdaysf Wy,gy, 5-8pm,, www.wy.m, 408-842-3305
ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 18Every Christmas Story Ever ToldPa rpy ta, 831-622-0100
c ta, cam, www.pap.
DECEMBER 2Gryphon Piano Triocam Mus Sy
A Sas epspa cu, cam, 8pm
www.ammus., 831-625-9938
DECEMBER 2Carmel Holiday Tree LightingDvd Pak, cam, 4:30pm
DECEMBER 2Holiday Open Housecam Paza, cam, 5:30-7:30pm, 831-624-1385
DECEMBER 2-4
Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music FestivalMy c c, My
www.mywby., 800-722-9652
DECEMBER 3Barnyard Holiday Festivalt Bayad Spp Va, cam
www.bayad.m
DECEMBER 318th Annual Stillwells Fun in the Parkcada Pak, Pa gv, 10am-4pm
www.pav., 831-373-3304
DECEMBER 4Holiday Spectacularcaau Ju, cam Vay, 2:30-:30pm
www.aauju.m, 831-624-2600, $40, $30/mmbs
DECEMBER 4The Inns of Distinction Tourcam ha Sy, Vs s cam
www.ama., 831-624-4447
DECEMBER 9The Little BIG Holiday Partyt Ba & ts cub, Pbb Ba
www.pbbba.m, 831-622-6528, 7-11pm
DECEMBER 102011 Jingle Bell Run/Walk
lvs P Pak, Pa gv, 8-11am
www.pav., 831-620-1699
DECEMBER 11Surf City Wine University:Sparkling Wine with Barry Jacksonequx/Ba, Saa cuz, 12-2pm
www.suyvs.m, 831-818-1405
DECEMBER 12-13Holiday Boutiquef Wy, gy, 11am-5pm
www.wy.m, 408-842-3305
DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Celebrationi a Spas Bay, Pbb Ba
www.pbbba.m
JANUARY 15Surf City Wine University:
Bordeaux Wines with Mikael Wargin
MJA Vyads, Saa cuz, 12-2pm
www.suyvs.m, 831-818-1405
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
ONGOINGThursday Night Music SeriesBa Wy, Squ, ejy mus, d & Ba w! 6-8pm
831-475-2258x11, www.ba.m
NOVEMBER 29
The Mountain Winery U WineDemystified
Saaa, 6-8pm, $65, 408-441-2822
DECEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23
Fireside Fridays Wine Tastingsh ls gas, ls gas, 5-6:30pm
408-354-7700, $15/ 5 ws
DECEMBER 3-4Loma Prieta Pinotage Release Party
ls gas, www.mapawy.m, 408-353-2950
DECEMBER 3Chocolates & Desserts DemonstrationBadus ld, cam Vay, 1-3pm
www.badus.m, 888-648-9463, $85
DECEMBER 3-4Artin the Historic CellarsBa Wy, Squ
www.ba.m, 831-475-2258
DECEMBER 9
15th Annual Truffle DinnerBadus ld, cam Vay
www.badus.m, 888-648-9463
ONGOINGSierraRailroadoakda, 209-848-2100, www.saaad.m
D 2: fday n D
D 3, 10: Sauday n D
D 4: csmas Bu
D 9: Mud Mysy D
D 11, 16-23: csmas ta
D 31: nw Yas ev expss
ONGOING30th Annual Vintners Holidayst Awa, Ysm naa Pak
www.YsmPak.m/Vs, 801-559-4903
D 4-6: tabas ck Vyad, hu Ba Ws, Bks Vyad
faa Ws & tuy W cas D 7-8: cja Vyads, Kay Wy, tsa Wy & caau M
Wy
ONGOINGChefs Holidayst Awa, Ysm naa Pak
www.YsmPak.m/cs, 801-559-4903 Ja 8-10: Sss 1
Ja 11-12: Sss 2
SACRAMENTO VALLEY
ONGOINGSacramento River Train800-866-1690, www.saamva.m
D 3, 10: Sus D w lv Mus & ev D w Da
D 4, 11, 17-23: csmas ta
D 31: Sus D w Mus D 31: nw Yas ev expss
ONGOINGMondavi Center for the Performing ArtsU.c. Davs, 866-754-ArtS, www.mdavas.
D 7-10: ta fu Qua
D 8-9: Maa S d Mx d Js hadz
D 11-12: laa Dws famy c D 15: Bd Bys Aabama csmas Sw
D 18: Ama Ba Sss
SUISUN VALLEY
ONGOING SATURDAYS$5 Wines by the GlassWawk Wy, fad W & mpmay pzza 1-6pm
lv mus 2-5pm, www.wawkwy.m, 707-428-6977
DECEMBER 3Cooking with Liz Show & DinnerVz famy Vyad, Susu Vay
www.vzamyvyad.m, 888-823-Vine
DECEMBER 16
Barrel Burning & Zinfandel Barrel TastingVz famy Vyad, Susu Vay W cub Mmb ev
www.vzamyvyad.m, 888-823-Vine
DECEMBER 26-27SVVGA Anniversary CelebrationSusu Vay Vs & gws Assa
Vs papa ws! 12-5pm
www.susuvayws.m, 707-864-0730
SOLANO COUNTY
CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NORTH CENTRAL COAST
CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
18
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.
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WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
by Charles Neave
You have a number of options when you
visit the fabled Trentadue Winery, a breath
of Tuscany, in Sonoma Countys Alexander
Valley. But the one thing you can be assured
of when you visit in addition to the
inescapable fact that you are going to
sample first-rate wines in a beautiful rural
setting is that one of the winerys profes-
sional (not intimidating, but friendly, always
accommodating and knowledgeable) tasting
room staff will pour and educate visitors in
a very relaxed and charming Northern Cali-
fornia setting.
You can check into the chocolate and
wine pairing, done by special request,
which might define, in a very nice way, the
word decadent. The La Storia Reservetasting room is available for groups of from
six to 20 There you can sit, relax and taste
half-a-dozen different varietals of their
impressive wines. A professional from the
tasting room will pour and educate you in a
comfortable lovely setting. Reservations in
advance are required, but it is well worth
the little bit of planning involved for the
resulting enjoyment.
The winery also offers their special
gondola tour of the vineyards. You can
arrange this by calling ahead and making a
reservation (also required, and note that
there is an eight-person minimum). This
tour of the surrounding estate vineyards
touches on the history of the winery, and the
history of the Alexander Valley, and whatmakes it such a unique and special place to
grow grapes and make wine. It is a unique
experience for both the experienced wine
lover as well as newcomers to the lasting
charm of the grape. It is also a memorable
experience for a group of friends, family or
business associates.
The property has also become very well
known as a venue for parties, dinners and
especially weddings. With spacious grounds,
a grand lawn, fountains, plantings, mature
trees, a modern commercial kitchen,barbecue and a large indoor room if al fresco
is not what you want, or if the weather
doesnt cooperate. All of this in a setting that
is surrounded by vines, with the hills in the
distance to the east and to the west.
The winery is in the country but very
accessible from any direction by back road or
a four-lane interstate. And considering the
Trentadue heritage (detailed in a fascinating
memoir by Leo Trentadue titled My Nine
Lives) it should come as no surprise that
influence, both inside and out, is ov
whelmingly Italian, while being both eleg
and what I always think of as wine coun
casual.
When Leo and Evelyn Trentadue, at t
time fruit growers from Santa Clara Counpurchased this property in 1959, about
percent of the 200 acres were plum trees. T
other 50 acres was planted with old v
Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Carignane. So
after they made the land their own, the fam
began replacing the fruit trees with vin
However they did not start making wine u
a decade later, when they held back some
the fruit they usually sold to other winerie
start their own Trentadue label.
Since the earliest years, their wines h
been known for consistency and quawinning a wall full of awards. What
means to the consumer is that it places th
among the top ten percent tier of wineries
Trentadue winemaker Miro Tcholakov s
For the last decade Trentadue wines h
changed dramatically, and in a positive di
tion. We just dont brag about it! And for
these years I have really enjoyed mak
great wines from our estate fruit, especi
the reserve La Storia wines.
Trentadue Family Estate Winery
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21/802Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan!
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR
The roster of their wines
i n cl ud e t he G ra nd C uv ee
California Sparkling wine,
plus Zinfandel, Petit Sirah,
Sangiovese, Viognier, a bistro
style blend labeled Old Patch
Red, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
and a desert wine called Angelica.
The La Storia Cuvee 32 is a blend
of Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese
and Montepulciano.
There is also a Port made
from Zinfandel grapes, one from
Petite Sirah and a very rare Viog-
nier Port, one of less than a
handful that I have ever encoun-
tered over the years. Perfect for
the holidays to pour at home
or to give as a special gift is theChocolate Amore, made from
Merlot-based Port and infused
with chocolate extract. These are
all available at the winery tasting
room and through their assort-
ment of wine clubs, including
one that focuses solely on Ports
and another that is built around
shipments of the coveted La
Storia Reserve Estate bottlings.
As the winerys tasting room
manager Royalene Mancini has
often remarked, Trentadue
makes incredible award-winning
wines that are available at very
affordable prices. Its all about
quality for value!
The Trentad ue Winery
tasting room is located at 19170
Geyserville Avenue just outside
of the small town of Geyserville.
They are open every day from
10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For moreinformation on the winery, tast-
ings, tours, the wine clubs and
special events, their telephone
numbers are (707) 433-3104
and 1-888-332-3032, or go to
their comprehensive website at
www.trentadue.com. Look for
them on Facebook and become
a fan. The winery is also dog
friendly.
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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
22
by Alexandra Charsley
The holidays are right around the corner and at
Joseph Phelps, they have put together three
outstanding wine combinations that will surely
impress your friends and family. This year, if you
want to send something from Napa Valley or just
some award-winning wine, look past all the usual
kitschy items and head to Joseph Phelps for some
wonderful wine sets. The wines featured in each set
have all scored 90+ points from Wine Enthusiast,
Wine Advocate and Wine Spectator.
The first holiday set being offered is one bottle
each of Joseph Phelps 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon,
Napa Valley and 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, St. Helena,
Napa Valley for $88. The 2008 Cabernet reveals
aromas of plum and blackberry intertwined with
graphite, forest floor, dark chocolate and curry
notes. The fruit and spice carry through on the
palate adding to the multilayered texture of this
wine. Supple, integrated and age-worthy tannins
create a long, lush finish. The 2010 Sauvignon
Blanc is 100% estate grown in St. Helena. It has arich, round mouth-feel and subtle oak influence
while preserving the inherent balanced acidity and
elegance in the finished wine.
The second holiday set features one bottle each
of 2008 Joseph Phelps Insignia, Napa Valley and
2008 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Backus
Vineyard, Oakville, Napa Valley for $450. The
Insignia, their flagship wine, is recognized as one of
the worlds great wines and has been collected and
enjoyed for years. This wine boasts aromatic layers
of dark roasted coffee and graphite. The seduc
mouth-feel has excellent length, intensely
black fruit, minerality and creaminess that
together seamlessly on the palate. The 2
Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard has beaut
aromatics of dried flowers, cassis, blueberry, bl
cherry and licorice. Flawless texture, minera
and concentrated flavors create a balanced
intense long finish.
Their last gift set comes from their Sono
Coast sibling winery, Freestone Vineyards,
includes one bottle each 2008 Freestone Pinot N
and 2009 Freestone Chardonnay for $110.
2008 Freestone Pinot Noir boasts deep
enticing aromas of spice cabinet, black tea, dr
violets, pomegranate liqueur, balsamic reduc
and cedar box. The 2009 Freestone Chardon
has great concentration, weight and intensity w
vibrant, focused flavors of honeysuckle, quin
orange blossom and a touch of apple skins to tem
the palate. This wine is full-bodied, has great len
and possesses a tangy, citrus finish with trem
dous precision and minerality.Starting this month, all gift sets will be av
able for purchase by calling their excell
Customer Service department at 1-800-707-57
and will be offered at the Joseph Phelps Vineya
Guest Center in St. Helena. The Joseph Phe
sets will be available for purchase online
www.josephphelps.com.
The Freestone vineyards wine set will be av
able for purchase at the Freestone Vineyards Gu
Center and online at www.freestonevineyards.co
Holiday Gift Giving at Joseph Phelp
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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
24
by Ronda Giangreco
What do latkes, surfing tunes and jelly
donuts have in common? Not even theall-informative internet will give you
the answer to this one! To discover
the scrumptiousness of traditional
Jewish potato pancakes, the
groovin sounds of the beach and
gooey confections all in one place,
you have to take a drive to the
hippest, most jocular winery in
the Napa Valley.
The Sixth Annual Hanukkah
Hootenanny takes place at the Judds
Hill Winery, located just a mile north
of the town of Napa on the Silverado
Trail on December 4th from noon to three.
The friendly folks at Judds Hill will be
pouring their fabulous current
vintages, as well as some of
their coveted library wines to
accompany an extravagant
display of beef brisket and
latkes with all the trimmings.
Guests will feast on this tradi-
tional Jewish Hanukkah fareat the winerys famous Latke
Bar. The time-honored custom
of consuming copious
amounts of finger-licking
good jelly donuts will also be a
highlight of the event, a benefit for the Childre
Health initiative of Napa County.
Guests can rock out to the swing
tunes of the surf, provided by MeshuBeach Party, a Jewish instrumental s
rock band. What the heck is a Jew
surf-rock band, you might ask?
high-energy display of sht
Meshugga Beach Party offers
favorite Jewish melod
performed in a retro-cool s
music style. Dressed in black co
and long black beards, the g
and gal perform synchroni
dance moves, deliver the dead j
scrolls groaner lines in the fin
tradition of the Catskills and gener
get the crowd up on their feet
swaying. The band features guitars, org
bass and drums and the occasional holler
good measure. You may have caught the bands ac
Bay Area Jewish heritage festivals, the famous Bay to Break
and hipster havens like Lebowski Fest, Forbidden Island Tiki Lou
and the Hubba Hubba Burlesque Revue. If not, this is your chanc
some serious Hava Nagila shenanigans. To get an idea of the hila
that awaits you, check out their uproarious clip on YouTube.
Be sure and make your reservations early, as this event is alwaysell-out. Judds Hill Wine Club members are free, while non-memb
ticket prices are $40. Obviously, if the outstanding wines wer
enough alone, this is a great reason to join their club.
To ensure your place at the Latke Bar, call the winery at (707) 2
2332 today. Or, visit their website at www.juddshill.com.
Dont Miss the Judds Hill Hanukkah Hootenanny
Bunnie and Judd
Meshugga Beach Party
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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
by Charles Neave
Their winemaking philosophy is to be
admired. As legendary winemaker Michael
Richmond explains, its all about using the
cool and foggy mornings and warm and
sunny days of the Carneros region in
northern Napa to craft Pinot Noir and
Chardonnay, the varietals that thrive here.
The property has vineyards that surround it
and climb up a hill where on a clear day you
can see Mount Tamalpais and the taller build-
ings in San Francisco; most every day you can
look down on the Napa River and parts of
San Pablo Bay, which accounts for a large part
of the regions microclimates.
As to history, Bouchaine Vineyards is the
oldest continuously operating winery in theregion. The original winery was built in the
late 1920s and today is a model for using
sustainable vineyard practices to make
distinctive wines. The wood that faces the
winery buildings comes from old fermenta-
tion tanks that were removed and soaked
until they could be straightened. By any
measure it was quite a feat.
The wines show lingering flavors and
depth, a smooth texture and just the right
level of acidity to pair with food.
The Pinot Noirs taste of berries and cher-
ries, coffee, smoke and spices. When it comes
to the Chardonnay it comes down to
fragrance, texture and finish. It is about
combining the best of Los Carneros and Napa
fruit.
What it really comes down to is your own
preferences. When you visit you can have
your samplings in the attractive tasting ro
where on cooler days the wood burning f
place will be going, and where youll likely
offered a choice of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris
a Pinot Meunier. If they have it on hand, d
miss the Ros of Syrah from the Rockin
Vineyard on the Sonoma Coast. They
make a dry Riesling, a Sonoma Syrah an
Carneros Pinot Blanc.
Outside there is a wood deck fac
gardens, a well-trimmed lawn with a ho
shoe pitch and olive trees with vineyards j
a few yards beyond. There is no doubt th
you plan to visit the area, a stop at Boucha
is certainly a fine move. It is relaxing, enj
able, sociable, friendly, fascinating
secluded and there is a new twist at ev
turn.The tasting room at Bouchaine Vineya
is open every day from 10:30 a.m until 5
p.m. Located at 1075 Buchli Road less t
15 minutes from downtown Napa, their t
phone number is 1-800-654-WINE, or g
www.bouchaine.com. They are also on Fa
book and Twitter. Tours of the vineyards
winery are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. a
reservations are required. Dogs on a leash
welcome, by appointment.
Bouchaine Vineyards
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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
by Josh Stein
Napa is world-known for its winemakers,
who have managed through several genera-
tions hard work and research to produce still,
dry wines of an astounding array of flavor
profiles. However, almost no one has turnedthose techniques to producing the same kind
of range of sweet wines except for the
Prager family, that is, who have used that
same winemakers eye for detail but applied it
in a different fashion, honoring the tradition
of long-lived, long-aging, always-repre-
sentative-of-the-vintage Port wines. And
not just with one or two. How about six,
ranging from dry to off-dry to sweet.
Ask anyone you come into contact with
about sweet wines in Napa, and almost to a
person, theyll point you to the three genera-tions of Jim Pragers family who have been
making wine in St. Helena for more than
three decades. Jim himself was raised in
Orange County back when it was obvious
how agriculture produced its eponymous
name. He and wife Imogene first found the
Napa Valley when a wine and food society to
which they belonged visited in 1974. They
fell in love with the Valley and relocated,
harvesting and then crushing their first grapes
in 1979 in an 1865-built carriage house on
their property in south St. Helena. Their first
releases were Cabernet, Chardonnay,
Zinfandel, and the Noble Companion
Cabernet Port all 120 cases of it.
Over the next three decades, the produc-
tion has increased commensurate with thePragers expansion of their offerings such that
now available are three table wines and six
Ports, presenting the full array of whats
possible with this winemaking philosophy,
though each is no more than about eight
hundred cases of production. The long-aging
Royal Escort Port (and, only released in
special years, Royal Escort Vintage Port) is
made from Petite Sirah; and the Noble
Companion Tawny Port, aged in oak for a
decade or more, is ready for drinking right
away. The Tomas Port is made from thePortuguese varietals Tinto Cao, Touriga and
Tinta Roriz, which are almost never seen in
California. Going even further into rare
production territory, the Aria White Port is
made from Chardonnay, and the Alyssa
Golden Dry Port you read that right is
made from the white Verdelho grape. The still
wines are equally out of the ordinary: Petite
Sirah and two late-harvest Rieslings, the fruity
and crisp Sweet Claire and the lightly forti-
fied Madeline. Also available are three vi
gars Balsamic, Cabernet and Port cho
late Port drizzle, Port-filled chocolates a
Imogenes sweet and savory carameli
walnuts and pecans. If it can be done with
fortification process or if it can incorporate
end product, youll probably only find ithe Winery and Port Works. The goa
always to show how Port goes with anythi
Concurrent with the growth of
winerys offerings has been the inclusion
the six members of the familys next gene
tion, who have taken over the daily ope
tions from their parents and in-laws. Pe
graduated from CSU Fresno and is wi
maker, his brother Jeff acts as Gen
Manager and their brother John coordin
sales and distribution. Sister Mary coo
nates events and the wine club and husband, Richard, is the Cellar Mas
working closely with Peter on product
Sister Katie is CFO everything has to p
muster with her before it proceeds
waiting in the wings are twenty-two gran
kids, guaranteeing the winerys success w
into the future. And that sense of a fam
working in concert together pervades eve
thing about the winery and its products.
Indeed, pulling into the slightly hid
Prager Winery and Port WorksHonoring a Different Winemaking Tradition in Napas St. Helena
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dirt lane, one doesnt know quite what to expect. What youll find is
tucked away past a garden representative of the Valleys bounty and
through the barrel cellar redolent with the winerys efforts. The tasting
room is rustic but casual, reflective of an older, more agricultural
sense of the Valley. As you might imagine, discussion of the Port-
making process often takes place, but in a truly relaxed manner
befitting a long-successful family-run winery. I dont want to giveeverything away, but several totally unique tasting room displays
await visitors, as does explanation of the fortification process and how
and why the Pragers produce the least sweet Ports in California.
Believe it or not, its possible to produce dry and off-dry Ports, but you
have to visit the winery to find out the secrets of this process from the
makers themselves.
Its probably not a surprise by now, but the Pragers also make avail-
able something else fairly unique: they provide custom etched and
sand-carved bottles of their releases. There are often a few of these
kinds of items in different places around the Valley, but almost no one
else can provide them to order for any special event or occasion. Its
just another side-benefit of working with a family business, whereeven single-bottle requests can easily be handled. In the same vein, for
those wanting an inner-circle experience, the Prager Port Club offers
access to everything the winery makes at a discount, biannual wine
shipments without an enrollment fee, and invitations to exclusive
events at the winery, like the annual lobster feed. Its impressive to see
what one family has produced through their combined efforts, and its
a privilege to have access the products of their labors. Come up to
Prager Winery and Port Works in St. Helena to see for yourself. As
they say around the winery, Step off the beaten path. Trust me, you
wont be sorry when you do.
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by Josh Stein
The key to staying impactful in any commercial endeavour is the
ability to pivot and move onto the next iteration of the business, and
the wine business is certainly no different as wine and winemaking
styles rise and wane and consumer interest is equally as cyclical.
Artesa Vineyards and Winery, founded in 1991 in the then-unfashion-
able Carneros region just north of the San Pablo Bay by Spains
Ravents family, owners of the Codorniu Winery among others and
makers of wine for seventeen generations, has stuck around into its
third decade because the folks in charge recognized this early on, and
in bringing Mark Beringer in as VP of Production and Winemaking
two years ago, the winery has accelerated its ability to make a wide
range of great wines consumers love as its everyday practice.Artesas history is one which began with a vision of the Jewel of
Carneros, and Barcelona architect Domingo Triay delivered on that
vision with a pyramidal structure built into its surroundings. An
expansive terrace provides full-circle views extending out to San Fran-
cisco on clear days. Water, fountains, soundscapes and more greet you
on the outside, and light-filled, contemporary spaces adorned with
modern artwork, sculptures and installations greet you on the inside,
turning the wine tasting into an experience. Like a vision of todays
Spain itself, the space and wines work well together to emphasize a
mixture of modern and classic sensibilities, for which the winery has
been justifiably celebrated many times over the years.
So, why then turn to Mark Beringer? Who better than a fifth-gener-
ation California vintner, great-great-grandson of eponymous winery
founder Jacob Beringer, to help a family whos been in the wine busi-
ness themselves for 460 years to modernize their California wine-
making and help to develop new wines? Mark started in the business
as a preteen, stocking shelves and dusting bottles in his parents
wineshop. Not content with sales alone, Mark learned the range of
wine production activities while attending classes in Sonoma County
before receiving his degree in Enology from Fresno State in 1990.
Mark spent time at Glen Ellen Winery before being recruited by Dan
Duckhorn to help with that winerys growth, and he was key to the
launch of the Paraduxx and Goldeneye brands (and then separatewineries) for the Duckhorns. In 2005, the San Francisco Chronicle
named Mark Winemaker of the Year for these accomplishments, and
by 2008, Mark created a successful consulting business making lots of
different wines along the way.
It was the skills complimented by acknowledged success which
made Mark the perfect fit for Artesas resurgence. Indeed, while Artesa
was well known for its focus on vineyard location, under Mark
Beringer these ideas have been taken to the next level, focusing on
small-lot production; slower, more gentler winemaking which utilizes
gravity flow and temperature control; and a series of limited-release
and reserve bottlings which allow the winery to stretch its techn
legs and try new things. Using grapes from the best vineyard
Carneros, Alexander Valley, and Atlas Peak doesnt hurt, either,
neither does the same philosophy of minimal impact via sustain
agriculture at those sites.
The results have been quite impressive thus far. New winemak
programs have produced different tiers of wines, allowing for dozof releases, something most wineries simply cannot do. Mark
brought one particular vision, but he has embodied it in a far-rang
number of bottlings. Most wineries have neither the wherewithall
the experience to handle the logistics, let alone the actual skill ne
sary. The attention to place, to showcasing where a wine is from,
become key; as Mark states, We are putting Carneros back into
wines. We are bringing Carneros back to the place it needs to b
Equally, Marks small-lot fermentations allow for complexity
subtlety to mix doing Pinot Noir, for example, in half-ton lots
upright barrels guarantees a range of expression in the resulting wi
These light touches produce more food-friendly wines. As Mark noIts not just a wine style but a chef style. To achieve this, blend
these various pieces is key, akin to the instruments in music, a ca
Mark considered before wine: its the same mixing with the com
nents for a wine.
Unsurprisigly, the origins and the current resurgence of Ar
Vineyards and Winery lie in its name, which means handcrafted
Catalan, and with Mark Beringer now at the winemaking helm, th
truly what is taking place. Do yourself a favor and come to Carne
to see for yourself whats begun to spring up once again under Ma
guidance. Cheers!
Winemaker Profile:ArtesaWineryMark Beringer
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Every year, the Napa Valley Wine Train throws an amazing New
Years Eve celebration. From the caviar and the sparkling wine, to
the gourmet meal and live band, everything is planned andexecuted to perfection. This year though, the Wine Train has
decided that New Years Eve shouldnt just be about a fabulousparty. So instead of simply throwing an amazing celebration, theyveadded a new component: raising money for local breast cancer
patients.We polled our Facebook fans early this year, and they over-
whelmingly voted for a Black, White and Pink ball that included a
donation to support breast cancer patients. The toga party, disco andan End of the World theme (2012) didnt have a chance next to the
run away winner, said Kira Devitt, Wine Trains Social Media Strate-gist.
After the theme was decided, we immediately started looking
for a partner to help us create a successful event and to get the
raised funds into the hands of local patients. The Queen of theValley Medical Foundation was a perfect match. The Foundations
main goals are to serve the community, and provide quality medicalcare.
Michael Holmes, renown local designer and owner of MichaelHolmes Designs has graciously agreed to create the ambiance in the
Wine Train station. These types of events are so very important to
me, he said, It is very meaningful to be a participant in the fight
against cancer. Holmes contributions dont end with the stylin
the station, he has also agreed to contribute one of his highly soug
after events as one of the prizes for the evenings drawing.There have also been a multitude of magnums donated for on
the evenings benefit drawing items. Some lucky winner will waway with delicious Napa staples like Whitehall Lane, JeriCanyon Vineyard, Amuse Bouche, Calistoga Cellars, ZD Win
Judds Hill, Grgich Hills Estate, Benessere Vineyards, Tudal Fam Winery, Romillily Wines, Duckhorn Vineyards, T-Vine Cellars
more. And of course the Wine Train is contributing to the draw
and has teamed up with the Napa River Inn to create a two-nigget away package for four people.
Drawing tickets are three for $25 and can be purchased onlineWineTrain.com/holiday/new-years-eve. You do not have to att
the gala to win, nor do you have to be present at the drawing.
The Wine Trains New Years Eve party is always a great time a
has become known as one of the Bay Areas best New Years Eevents. This year, it is going to be even more special.
Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m., the after party begins at 10 p.m., adancing goes until 1 a.m. Ticket prices are $235 per person
dinner and party; $50 per person for the after party only.The in-station reception will begin at 5 p.m., the dinner train
board at 6:30 p.m. and depart at 7 p.m. The after party will begi
10 p.m., and entertainment will continue until 1 a.m.
UPCOMING
December 9
Iron Horse Vineyards
January 20
Hall Napa Valley
February 17
Kendall-JacksonWinery
The Black, White and Pink Ball: A Party With a Purpos
Turnbull Wine Cellars is proud to partner with the loca
chapter of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves in support of thei
annual Toys For Tots campaign.
Through Thursday, December 15th, bring your Toys for Tot
donation of new unwrapped toys to the Estate Tasting Room t
bring holiday joy to a child in need. You will be rewarded with
complimentary tasting of estate wines and enter you in th
December 16th drawing for a magnum of Turnbull 2008 Nap
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. (This offer only applies to those 2
years of age and older.) If you bring your toy on Saturday
December 3rd, Santa Claus will be here to thank you for helpin
him to bring joy to the children in need! Turnbull Wine Cellar
is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Turnbull Cellars Holiday Toy Drive
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HILTON GARDEN INN
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316 Pittman Road (707) 864-3
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Luxury resort recognized for excellence
in the wine tourism guest experience
The international jury of Great Wine Capitals Global Network hasannounced Meadowood Napa Valley as the 2012 International Best Of
Wine Tourism award recipient for the San Francisco/Napa Valley
region at its annual meeting in Mainz, Germany. This is the first time
Meadowood Napa Valley has earned this honor.
Each year, the Great Wine Capitals Global Network recognizes
hospitality leaders in nine international wine regions, including San
Francisco/Napa Valley, with the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards. There
are seven categories in which Best Of awards are presented regionally:
accommodations, restaurants, architecture and landscape, art and
culture, innovative wine tourism experiences, wine tourism services,
and sustainable wine tourism practices. Regional honorees are thenentered to earn one of nine international awards, one presented to each
region.
Criteria for selection include excellence in guest experience, restau-
rant programming and cuisine, and support of wine tourism
throughout the year. Meadowoods commitment to wine tourism
includes the support of a fulltime Master Sommelier at the hotels three-
starred Michelin-starred The Restaurant at Meadowood, and hosting
innovative annual wine-focused events which include Auction Napa
Valley and the Napa Valley Symposium for Professional Wine Write
We are so thrilled to be recognized with this honor by a group
our international peers, explains Alain Negueloua, General Manage
Meadowood Napa Valley. Our team lives and breathes wine, food
providing a world-class guest experience. We are so proud to know
the greater wine tourism community can see our passionate work.
Meadowood Napa Valley Awarded 2012 InternationaBest of Wine Tourism for San Francisco/Napa Valley
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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 YIf this is one of your many visits to the wine country, you are no doubt
looking for something a little different. So why not change things up andtake the road less travelled through Suisun Valley The Napa Back Road.We all no doubt have our favorites, but we are always looking to one upour friends back home. Yes, that never ending search for something newand refreshing, but still preserving all that made you first fall in love withthe whole Wine Country Experience.
If you are staying in Downtown Napa, do you realize you are justapproximately 15 to 20 minutes away from a valley that preserved whatNapa was in the 1960s? However, the wines at such places like VezerFamily Vineyard and the Blue Victorian Winery take advantage of both theold traditions, such as 100% hand punched down wines, along withimplementing the important new techniques learned from those great Cali-fornia winemakers over the last 50 years.
This Suisun Valley has been a long-time held secret in the wine country.
In fact, many of the locals try to continue this secret, simply because it iswhere they go to still experience those old feelings of days gone by. SuisunValley is where you can find wines that would sell for over $150 a bottle atthe popular better known tourist destinations in Napa, for $30 to $60.These same wines have 94, 95 and 97 point rankings and medals from thegreatest national and international competitions!
Come make your own dreams come true in Suisun (Sue-soon) ValleyNapas Little Sister Sui.
Visit Napas Little Sister, Sui
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Visitors Invited to Enjoy a Weekend of Hearty Farewith 18 Award-Winning Rutherford Wineries
The Rutherford Appellation Wineries invite the public to take a
wine tasting journey through Napa Valleys famed Rutherford regionduring their semi-annual Winter Passport Weekend on Saturday,
December 3 and Sunday, December 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pass-port holders can experience the wineries of the Rutherford appellationwith hearty winter foods paired with the amazing wines produced
within the Rutherford Appellation. Each winter, Passport holders
offered barrel tastings, providing the opportunity to purchase fut
releases and try samples of what is yet to come.The event highlights and celebrates the wineries of Rutherford
the historic heart of Napa Valley. Each winery will feature its o
unique wine and food pairing experience aimed to teach visitors abRutherford varietals, Napa Valley terroir and how the wines pair w
different, select food dishes. Eighteen wineries are slated to host gufor this special two-day event, including many that are not norm
open for public tastings. Certain wineries will also be offering spe
wine discounts to Passport holders. Participating wineries are AlOmega Winery, Beaulieu Vineyards, Chaix*, Elizabeth Spencer, Fr
ciscan, Honig, J. Moss*, Lieff*, Meander*, Mumm Napa Valley, Pe
monte*, Peju Winery, Pia Napa Valley, Raymond, Sawyer CellarsSupery, Tres Sabores and Vice Versa Wines. (Wineries marked with
asterisk will be pouring at Rutherford Grange.)Weekend passports are av
able for $75 per person for weekend, or $60 for Sunday onA limited number of passports
available to purchase online
www.rutherford-appellatiowineries.com and will be av
able for pick-up on Decem3rd and 4th, 2011 in Rutherfo
Proceeds from the win
Passport Weekend will donated to a local Napa Val
charity. Since its inception, Rutherford Appellation Wine
has donated more than $40,0
to local charities from PasspWeekend ticket sales, includ
the Rutherford Grange, N
Crime Stoppers, the RutherfRiver Restoration project, Qu
of the Valley Commu nOu treach Service and
Rutherford Volunteer F
Department.To learn more about
Rutherford Appellation Wine
visit www.rutherford-appellatiwineries.com.
Rutherford Appellat Wineries was established as
direct-to-consumer market
arm of the Rutherford DSociety (www.rutherforddust.o
to educate the public about
significance of the Rutherfappellation as Napa Valleys p
eminent grape growing area.
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE
N A P AD O W N T O W N
Rutherford Appellation Passport Weekend, Dec. 3-4
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Hess was selected as the Art & Culture choice because of its
continued success and leadership in connecting the worlds of wineand art in a unique combination that allows guests an experience that
touches the senses in many ways, according to the award citation.
Additional awards were presented in categories for accommodations,
restaurants, architecture & landscape, innovative wine tourism expe-
riences, wine tourism services and sustainable wine tourism practices.
The annual Best of Tourism awards serves as an industry bench-
mark for excellence, and recognizes leading wineries and wine-
tourism related businesses distinguishing themselves with innovation,
service and sustainable practices.
In selecting Hess, the judges noted With a combination of perc
tion, passion and insightfulness, Donald Hess personally selects wo
of international contemporary art, creating a collection that is b
thought provoking and inspirationalrepresenting an extraordin
and ever-expanding, in-depth look at over 60 artists, acknowledge
one of the largest collections of its kind.
The Hess Collection is open daily for visitors beginning at 10 aVisit The Hess Collection for details.
WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
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S T . H E L E N A
The Hess Collection Earns Best of Tourism Award Great Wine Capitals Regional Art & Culture
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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
Tasting Room of the Week:
Louis M. Martini Wineryby Alexandra Charsley
If you are looking for a winery that is
steeped in history and produces distinct
Napa Valley Cabernets, look no further
than Louis M. Martini Winery in St.
Helena. Founded in 1933 by Louis M.
Martini, the winery is still family run with
Michael Martini, third generation wine-
maker, carrying on the tradition of
making exceptional wines.
Located just off Highway 29, the Louis
M. Martini tasting room showcases at
least ten different wines from their familys
cellar year-round. Their tasting room dcor represents their philos-
ophy on wine. Here, you are surrounded by deep red walls like the
color of their rich Cabernets. Velvet curtains and a dark wood barround out the interior. This traditional tasting room is unpretentious
so as not to detract from their focus on wine. A large outdoor court-
yard for tastings or packed picnics sits adjacent to the tasting room.
Michael Martini has developed his own style to bring balance and
rich texture to the familys Cabernet Sauvignon blends. Mike and his
team of winemakers make small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon at Cellar
254, their micro-winery located on the property. With a nod toward
the winerys address, 254 St. Helena Highway, Cellar 254 is devoted to
making handcrafted wines. It is here that their flagship small lot wine,
Lot 1 Cabernet Sauvignon and the No. 254 Petite Sirah is produced.
Their ten-acre Thomann Station V
yard sits directly behind the win
Named for the Southern Pacific Railr
fruit packing stop, the soil here is id
for growing Petite Sirah and was plan
entirely to this varietal in 1996. Th
grapes are used to make the ne
released Cellar No. 254 Petite Sirah
their Petite Sirah Port.
Just in time for the holidays, Loui
Martini is releasing two spectac
wines this month; the 2007 Monte Ro
Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2009
254 Petite Sirah. The 2007 Monte Ro
Cabernet Sauvignon has been awarded 95 points by the Wine Ad
cate and retails for $85. This wine is 100% old vine moun
Cabernet grapes from the Monte Rosso vineyard in Sonoma Counthas elements of lush dark fruits and vanilla underscored by spice
noticeable earthiness. The 2009 No. 254 Petite Sirah is a decad
blend of milk chocolate and blueberry syrup aromas, with de
tannins and hints of toasty oak on the finish. This wine retails for
and is exclusive to their tasting room.
Let the warmth of their tasting room draw you in and you
experience distinguished wines from a historic, family run winery.
winery is located at 254 St. Helena Highway in St. Helena. Th
tasting room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Winery tours
also available by advance reservation by calling (707) 968-3362.
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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE
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Getting
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4089SilveradoTrail
Open10am-5pm
(707)253-1400
Funandeducationalwineseminars.
Openbya
ppointmentonly.
(707
)963-2745
200Taplin
Road,St.Helena
Legendaryhospitalitywith
h
ard-to-find,world-c
lasswines.
1091LarkmeadLane
4milesnorthofSt.Helena
OpenDaily10-5(707)942-0859
F
RANK
FAMILY
V
IN
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YA
R
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S
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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK
One Winemaker, Two Visions:Napa Cellars & Folie Deux Wineryby Josh Stein
Who says you cant have the best of both winemaking worlds, clas-
sically styled releases and wines that walk on the wild side? If youre
Napa Cellars and Folie Deux Winemaker Joe Shirley, you absolutely
get to have both and the results are fantastic wines in an environ-
ment designed for their enjoyment rather than pretension.
The story of todays Napa Cellars and Folie Deux Winery really
begins with Joe Shirley himself, which isnt so surprising given hes the
winemaker for both wineries, and its his sensibilities youre tasting in
the glass! California native Joe Shirley was born in Long Beach and
raised in Napa. Joe was initially set on a pre-med sports medicine
track at Occidental College in Los Angeles, but a barbecue at UC Davisprofessor Maynard Amerines (yes, that Amerine!) house changed all
that: Joe returned to Northern California and received an MS in
Enology from UCD. After graduation, he worked for Sonoma Cutrer
before moving on to Trinchero Winery, initally as enologist, then
named winemaker in short order. When the Trincheros wanted to take
Napa Cellars and Folie Deux to the next level, Joe was the natural
choice since he puts emphasis on the vineyards, with decisions about
them driving eveything else: I spend a lot of time in the vineyards
making harvest decisions. I find that every hour spent at harvest has
way more impact than an hour spent in the cellar in the winter.
With Joe at the helm, Napa Cellars philosophy is to put a modernpolish on classic Napa Valley wines. As the folks at the winery like to
say, these are delicious wines that possess all the character youve
come to expect from Napa and with an attitude and price youll find
rather refreshing. The goal is pure varietal expression from the wines
the Valley is most known for without any of the negatives sometimes
associated with other producers: classic, artistic and enjoyable wines
without attitude. These are the wines people come to Napa to find,
and they dont disappoint: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot,
Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Zinfandel, as well as reserve
releases of vineyard-designated wines.
In contrast, Folie Deux began, as the name itself proclaims,
passion of two. The two being psychiatrists who loved wine,
passion being driven to highlight the best little nooks of Sono
Countys vineyards: fog-shrouded Russian River Valley, vital for a
worthy Chardonnays; Alexander Valleys graveled soils, perfect
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon; and Dry Creek Valleys Mediterran
climate, necessary for field-blended Zinfandel, Petite Sirah,
Carignane. Rather than seeking to go where others have been, Fo
Deux gets to be as playful as possible. As the man tasked with ma
taining both visions, Joe is well aware of the dichotomy, noting N
Cellars has built its reputation on a very traditional style of Napa Va
wines, but we can push the stylistic boundaries of Folie Deux.
And it is in the tasting room, with its laid back vibe and rock-n-
soundtrack, that all comes together into something much more th
its parts, and the thinking behind the duo makes a real kind of sen
you get different styles of the same varietals in some instan
allowing you to taste the differences in winemaking protocols, as w
as wines which do not overlap because they cover different grow
areas. And being poured at one of the coolest looking tasting bar
the Valley doesnt hurt, either. Equally, designed for contempo
sensibilities, the winery invites strolling around the property, explo
the grounds, taking a nap on a blanket or enjoying the sights fr
under the large oak tree adjacent to the tasting room; picnic grouare available, too, so bring lunch with you when you come. T
winery is next to nationally known Mustards Grill on Highway 29
Oakville, so you can easily plan a complete days enjoyment of
valley with little in ultimate need of planning.
Most wineries have a tough enough time just putting out relia
solid releases year after year. Under Joe Shirley, Napa Cellars and F
Deux are doing most of the Valley one better: two different vision
great wines, neither focusing on any