Nor Cal Edition - Aug 26, 2011

8/4/2019 Nor Cal Edition - Aug 26, 2011

1/80

REE

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com AUGUST 26, 2

CHARLES KRUGWINERY DAY

PAGE20

HEIRLOOMTOMATO FESTIVAL

PAGE 24

VEZR FAMILYSUMMER CONCERTS

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MERRYVALEVINEYARDS

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WINE COUNTRWEEKEND

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Y O U R G U I D E T O N O R T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A W I N E T A S T I N G & E V E N

QUALITY WINES UNDER $25PAGE 11

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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Charles Krug Winer

Merryvale Vineyard

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Wine Garag

Judds Hill Winery: Kenn Vigod


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A U G U S T 2 6 , 2 0 1 1 I S S U E 3 5 V O L U M E 3 0

ON THE COVERWine Garage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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

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

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

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

WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

SUISUN VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33Suisun Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35-43St. Helena Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

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

Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44-45

SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-61Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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

Geyserville Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-61Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Sonoma Plaza Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Glen Ellen & Kenwood 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

LIVERMORE VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Livermore Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

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

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

ALDERBROOK WINERYMention ad for 2 for 1 tasting 50

ANABA WINES 2 for 1 tasting with ad 72

ANDRETTI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 5

BALLETTO VINEYARDS Complimentary tasting with ad 49BERINGER VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting in the Rhine House with ad 68

BLUE VICTORIAN Complimentary tasting withad 33

BOUCHAINE 2 for 1 tasting with ad 27

BRANNAN COTTAGE INN 10% off standard rate with ad 45

CALIFORNIA WINE TOURS Special price on tours and tastings 5

CHATEAU ST. JEAN 2 for 1 tasting with ad 73

ETUDE WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 69

FERRARI-CARANO 2 for 1 tasting with ad 73GOLDEN HAVEN Mud Treatment for 2, $54 per person 3

HAGAFEN CELLARS Free tasting with ad 4

HAHN WINERYComplimentary tasting for two with ad 66

J. KEVERSON 2 for 1 tasting and 25% off wine purchase with ad 54

JESSUP CELLARS Complimentary tasting for two with ad 43

KENDALL-JACKSON WINERYComplimentary tasting with ad 29

LOUIS M. MARTINI WINERY2 for 1 tasting with ad 35

MARTIN RAY WINERY15% discount with ad 49

OLD FAITHFUL GEYSER $1 off with ad 45PINK MANSION 15% off with ad at check-in 45

RAYMOND WINERYComplimentary tasting with ad 6

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 71

ST. SUPRY2 for 1 Tasting Mon-Thurs 7

STAGECOACH EXPRESS Complimentary shipping box 10

SUMMERS WINES 10% discount with ad 44

TASTE AT OXBOW Complimentary tasting 79

TURNBULL WINE CELLARS Complimentary tasting for 2 withad 37

VALLEY GATE VINEYARDS 2 for 1 tasting with ad 4

VEZR FAMILY VINEYARD Complimentary tasting with ad 33

VIANSA WINERY2 for 1 tasting/10% discount with ad 57

VINE HILL $10 tasting fee waived with ad 65

WILLIAM HILL 2 for 1 tasting with ad 29

Special Coupons


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So, you cook dinner for yourself and you pick out a nice bottle

of wine, open it, and pour yourself couple of glasses paired nicely

with your meal. And youre left with about half a bottle of wine that

you probably wont pour until the next night. What do you do with

the leftover wine?

Ill assume the cork pulled from the bottle has not been

damaged, or punctured through its full length. If it was, then you

first need to find a suitable closure, like an old cork saved from

another bottle that is in pretty good shape. Also good are rubber

wine bottle closures sold in many wine shops and tasting rooms.

You simply need a closure that seals the bottle opening well

maybe not perfectly, but good enough for the short term. Of course,if the bottle has a twist cap closure, this is not an issue, as long as

you havent already thrown away the cap!

Now, if you plan to pour from this bottle the very next day, you

can simply seal it and leave it on your kitchen counter, under one

condition: the room temperature of your kitchen does not get above

normal room temperature (72 degrees) in the course of the next 24

hours. (If it does, put the bottle in the refrigerator.) Simply find a

cool spot for it and feel confident the next night that the wine will

taste as good as it did the first night. And dont be surprised if, on

the second pouring, the wines flavors seem a bit more interesting

than it did the first night. Some wines noticeably improve with just

enough exposure to air, like the amount it would see sitting inside a

half full bottle overnight. If your wine happens to be one of them,

and theres no way to predict which ones will improve significantly,

the second nights wine will be a real treat.

But lets say you arent sure about when you will re-pour from

this bottle. Maybe the next night, but most likely it wont be for a

few days. Then you should refrigerate the bottle after re-closing i

Refrigeration will slow the aging process down enough for you to

enjoy the bottle again in several days. Dont expect it to improve

however, as the bottle left on the kitchen counter overnight. It

should stay as fresh as it was the first night for two or three days

More than this and it will begin a gradual decline through the

process of oxidation. Remember, the closure you use to re-seal th

bottle is not perfect. Some microscopic amounts of air will creep

inside the bottle over time.

There are several tools on the market designed to keep unfin-

ished wine fresh overnight. One pumps the air from the bottlethrough a slit on the top of a custom rubber closure. This produ

works just fine, and will extend the life of the wine longer than i

nothing else was done, except to re-seal the bottle. So you can ad

at least an extra day, may two, to the shelf life of the unfinished

bottle, again, assuming the room temperature does not exceed 72

degrees.

Another gadget is a gas canister filled with a harmless and odo

less gas. A tubular spout can be placed through the neck of the

bottle as you send a few blasts of gas into the bottle. The gas pus

out the oxygen and replaces it, acting as a preservative. You then

quickly seal the bottle with a suitable closure before letting the g

escape. I have found this process to work very well and use it reg

larly. As an added safety margin, I will refrigerate the wine also.

Bottles will remain fresh for four to five days, sometimes more.

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

How should I store unfinished wine overnight?


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by Jeffry Ross

The Skinny The Wine Garage is all about the juice. Its also about

having fun like a kid in a candy store. The Wine Garage is, literally, a

former gas station. Todd, the wine buyer, travels far and wide to find

top-shelf, affordably priced wines. Inside, youll find more than 200different labels neatly arranged in cases on the floor and an engaging

staff who are friendly, attentive and most importantly, 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 time, thats where you had to buy your music), the fun is going

through all the cases and finding something youve never heard of. All

the wines have been test driven by the staff, so, whatever you select,

you wont be disappointed.

Value Ultimately, the Wine Garage is about value. Its no secret that

Napa Valley, its difficult to score a highly rated red for less than $65,

but the Wine Garage manages to do it all the time. The staff takes gre

pride hunting down unusual and lesser-known, limited-productionwines and passing their haggling finesse on to us.

Ten-second summary With the exception of Wine Garage labeled

award-winning Cabernets, nothing in this hip hideaway is more tha

$25! The Wine Garage is stocked with premium, small-lot wines that

you wont find at BevMo, Trader Joes or your local wine store (plus,

they do a better job storing their wines at the correct temperature).

Best bets In addition to all the labels the Wine Garage represents, th

also produce their own lip-smacking blends. My in-house favorites ar

2009 Joy Ride (white blend), 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet, 2007

Napa Valley Petite Syrah, 2008 Napa Valley Chihuahua Caberne

and 2006 Napa Valley Hillside 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 wines delicious (and affordable), the jug is crazy fun conversa

tion at the table. Its also a cool gift.

Secrets For the next few weeks, receive an additional ten percent of

the already low prices when you purchase six bottles. Twenty percent

on a case. Better yet, the Wine Garage has the BEST wine club in the

valley and they ship just about everywhere.

Insider If youre a serious wino, get on the inside track for ultra excl

sive deals by hooking up with the Wine Garage on Twitter and Face-

book (wine club members get first crack to cream-of-the-crop finds).

Locate Wine Garage is located at 1020 Foothill Blvd. in Calistoga. more information, call (707) 942-5332 or go to WineGarage.net.


WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY NEW

1

Quality Wines All Under $25 at Wine Garage, Calistog

25% OFF CAS

E SALE, MIX &

MATCH


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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

Au 29: ea S la W cass

Sp 2: Mud Mysy

Sp 2: cs! ta

ONGOING

Joseph Phelps Vineyards:Tastings & Seminars

A 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

ONGOING WEEKENDS EXCEPT 4TH WEEKENDWine Component Tasting Seminar

at Merryvale VineyardsS. ha, 10:30am-12:30pm, $20, /ub mmbs

707-963-7777, www.myva.m

EVERY 4TH WEEKENDWine & Food Pairing Seminar

at Merryvale Vineyards

10:30am-12:30pm, $20, /ub mmbs, S. ha707-963-7777, www.myva.m

ONGOINGJefferson House Reserve Room Tasting

at Monticello Vineyardsnapa, rsv W Sma, cy famy napa Vay $25

rSVP 707-253-2802 x18, www.cyfamynapaVay.m

ONGOINGV. Sattui Winery

S. ha, 9am-6pm, app. ssay, 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 Winerynapa, 10am, 1pm & 3pm, $35, $25/mmbs

www.udws.m, 707-257-5300

ONGOINGRombauerVineyardsS. 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

ONGOINGVineyard & Winery Tours

at Raymond Vineyards

S. ha, 11am (by app), $15, gup us avaab (by app)800-525-2659x620, www.aymdvyads.m

ONGOING

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

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

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

Pva gup tas, $20, by app

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

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

Abaus tas, $600 4-6 pp, by app

W ta, $180

ONGOINGTours and 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

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/psONGOING

Educational 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

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

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 FRIDAYS-MONDAYSCooking Demonstrations at The DeBaun TheatreS. ha, cuay isu Ama a gys, $12.50

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 & luONGOING

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

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

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado Vineyardsnapa, 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

EVERY SUNDAY THROUGH OCTOBER

ZD Cycle, Tour & Taste

rud, A suy by d aud bauu rud.exp a ma k a w uy,

ad as wdu ws ZD.

9:30am 11:30am, $85 p ps, $40 yu d yu w bk

A ax 6-m d a uy ads, appxmay 45 mus

g a ma vw u wd a w w

exp awad-w ws ZD

rSVP, 800-487-7757, www.zdws.m

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

707-942-4981, www.spas.m

ONGOINGTastings & 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 SATURDAYSNapaRiverwalk withHistorian George Webber

2 u u w as & d w napa, 10am, $20, 707-251-8500

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

www.avas.m, 707-224-3900

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

Au 26: ca Vy & Sv tva

Au 29: S ham A-Sa Qu

Au 30 Sp 4: ennio Sp 24: nVoh gaa

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daiy: Vay firs tour

Daiy: gri his esa Winry tour

fri-Sun: Domain candon Winry tour

Sa: Vays ony evnin Winry tour

Mon-tu: Ambassador Winry tour

Au 29: ea S larn Win cass

Sp 2: Murdr Mysry

Sp 2: crs! train


13/801www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT

ONGOINGLive at theLincoln TheaterYuv, 707-944-1300, www.a.m

Sp 15: rk Baa pss Daa rss

Sp 25: napa Vay Sympy Dub Pas

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

Au 25: gua 2003 Va greAt tas

Au 26: Bak rm Bw ou XliiiONGOING

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

o u Sp 17: Zmb-P hus

Au 31: Summ lu w Sadw Bk

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

Au 25: A ev w Ba Ws

Au 26: Ja rvs

Au 27: Ma Jakss Bday Bas, au fvad

Sp 4: Ky ls

Sp 10: tas f fas

Sp 17: rb Sd

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

Au 26: hz cas

Sp 2: Jsp Pps Wy

Sp 9: Pama Wy

Sp 16: okbs

ONGOINGTasting Events at Wineries of Napa Valley

napa tw c, napa, 707-253-9450www.apavas.m, k wbs ms & ps

Au 23: f n ca B Samps

Au 26: ca B, f W & Asa cs

Au 27-28: Sp ad Sds

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30Modernism Photography After 1930

Exhibit at Turnbull Cellars

oakv, 707-963-5839, www.ubuws.m,

ONGOING FRIDAYS SUNDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 1Gourmet Flatbread Piazza & Wine

at Black Stallion Winery

napa, 11am-3pm, $7/mmbs, $15

www.baksawy.m, 707-227-3250

ONGOING THROUGH NOVEMBER 13Signs of Life Photography Exhibitby Robert Buelteman at Mumm Naparud, www.mummapa.m, 707-976-7702

AUGUST 26Winemaker Dinnerfaa famy Wy, napa, 7-10pm, $120www.aaws.m, 707-252-1017, rSVP

AUGUST 27Wine Club Pick-up & Harvest Partyat Judds Hillnapa, 12-3pm, /mmbs, $20/uss, rSVP707-255-2332, www.judds.m

AUGUST 274th Annual Harvest STOMP Partynapa Vay gapws, Bkss Mssu hpp Vyad, oakv$225, 5-10pm, www.avssmp.m, 707-944-8311

AUGUST 27Date & MovieNightt rm, fa Sps, S. ha, 5:50pm w & d, mv 7:50pwww.asps.m, 866-967-8032

AUGUST 27Cooking Class: Its Fantastico with Misty Phelpscda gabs i, napa, fau Sms W cmpay$150, 4-8pm, www.daabs.m, 707-224-7969


14/8014 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT


AUGUST 27An Intimate Evening with Alfredi Tofanellinapa Vay Musum, Yuv, 5:30-7:30pm, $10, /mmbs

www.apavaymusum., 707-944-0500

AUGUST 27Harvest Launch Celebrationfaa famy Wy, napa, 1-4pm, $50, /mmbs

www.aaws.m, 707-252-1017, rSVP

AUGUST 27-28

Grgich Hills Cheese Festivalrud, 11am-3pm, $25 pus $5/pa sma

www..m, 707-963-2784

AUGUST 28Sunday SocialVad napa Vay, D Pak, 12-4pm, $35, mmbs/

www.vada.m, 707-963-3816

SEPTEMBER 1First Thursday Fashion! Food! Fun!Sp, sp & as yu way u dww!

Dww casa, 6-9pm, www.asavss.m

SEPTEMBER 2Labor Day Weekend Case Sale

at Beaulieu Vineyardsrud, 10am-5pm, www.bvws.m, 800-264-6918x5233

SEPTEMBER 3

Soulful Saturday at Twenty Rowslv mus by Jak Pad, ad by Suu tas, 4-7pm

napa, www.wyws.m , 707-265-7720

SEPTEMBER 9Girls Night Outt rm, fa Sps, S. ha, 5-8pm

www.asps.m, 707-967-8032

SEPTEMBER 10Wine Club Pick-Up Reception

at Acacia Vineyardnapa, 11am-3pm, www.aaavyad.m, 707-226-9991

SEPTEMBER 10Charles Krug Winery 150th Anniversary

Tasting on the LawnS. ha, 2-5pm, 888-7475784, www.asku.m

SEPTEMBER 10

September Barrel Tasting & Pick Up Partyat MerryvaleS. ha, 1-4pm, $25, /mmbs, www.myva.m, 707-963-2225

SEPTEMBER 10Grgich Hills Fum Blanc Preview & Oystersrud, 11am-3pm, www..m, 707-963-2784

SEPTEMBER 109th Annual Sterling Silver Screenings:

Seabiscuitcasa, gas p 7pm, mv a dusk, $10, $5/ud 16

www.svyads.m, 707-942-3322

SEPTEMBER 10September Barrel Tasting & Pick Up Partyat Merryvale

S. ha, 1-4pm, $25, /mmbs

www.myva.m, 707-963-2225

SEPTEMBER 1018th Annual Hands Across the Valley

t ra Wy, S. ha, 6pm, www.adsassvay.m

SEPTEMBER 10Cooking Class: In the Kitchen with Ameliacda gabs i, napa, c Ama cja cja Vyads

$150, 4-8pm, www.daabs.m, 707-224-7969

SEPTEMBER 11, 25Music on the TerraceDma cad, Yuv, www.ad.m, 707-944-2280

SEPTEMBER 16Art & Wine Reception at Ehlers EstateS. ha, A v a, w, s & a!

6-8:30pm, rSVP, , www.ssa.m, 707-963-5972

SEPTEMBER 17Napa Valley Harvest Dinner

in the Cask Room at MerryvaleS. ha, 7pm, $150, rSVP, www.myva.m, 800-326-6069x429

SEPTEMBER 1727th Annual Harvest Ball

at V. Sattui WineryS. ha, 6pm, $200/mmbs, $225

www.vsau.m, 707-963-7774, rSVP

SEPTEMBER 17Mexican Independence Daynapa Vay Musum, Yuv, 12-5pm,

www.apavaymusum., 707-944-0500

SEPTEMBER 172008 HALL Kathryn Hall ReleasehAll rud, 6pm, $60/mmbs, $75

www.aws.m, 707-967-2626

SEPTEMBER 172008 Cabernet Sauvignon ReserveRelease Partyrb Mdav Wy, oakv, 3-5pm

www.bmdav.m, 888-rMonDAVi

SEPTEMBER 17Clos du Val Grape Stompnapa, 800-993-9463, www.sduva.m

SEPTEMBER 18

Tastemaker Dinner at toile RestaurantDma cad, Yuv, 6:30pm, $95

www.ad.m, 707-944-2280

SEPTEMBER 2412th Annual Mount Veeder Appellation

Wine Tastinghss c Wy, napa

W, d pas, a w a & v mus ads.

1-4pm, $50, www.mvdws.m, [email protected]

ONGOING21st Annual Summer Concert Series

at Rodney Strong Vineyardshadsbu, www.dys.m, 800-678-4763

Sp 4: cs BFRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER

Sebastiani Winery Friday Music SeriesSma, 6-9pm, 707-933-3226, www.sbasa.m

Au 26: Dba Ws

Sp 2: Adam taum & t taumas

Sp 9: Baktax

Sp 16: fv A.M.

ONGOINGSummer Music Series at Mazzocco Wineryhadsbu, 6-8pm, 800-501-8466, www.mazz.m

Au 26: lady D

Sp 16: Sd A

ONGOINGSummer Music Series at de Lorimier Winerygysv 6-8pm, 800-546-7718, www.dmwy.m

Sp 9: B ca Sp 30: Pusas

ONGOINGSummer Music Series at Wilson Wineryhadsbu, 6-8pm, 800-433-4602, www.wswy.m

Sp 2: Sd cu

Sp 23: ea tmas

ONGOINGJazz it Up Saturday

Wine & Jazz Concert SeriesSass Vyad tas Ba, hadsbu, 4-6pm

www.sassvyad.m, 707-431-2222

Au 27: Am M Baza Qua

Sp 10: t easy lavs

Sp 24: K t w Mk& Spk K & tv Ks

ONGOINGCarneros Bistro & Wine Bar Introduces

Thematic Wine Programh aa wmaks.Pus, atusday,6:30-8pmby w

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

ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshopat B.R. Cohn Wineryg e, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/mmbs

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

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

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

ONGOINGPrivate Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-CaranoVineyards 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

ONGOINGWine and Food Pairingat Ferrari-CaranoVineyards 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-CaranoVineyards and Wineryhadsbu Mday-Sauday, 10am, by appm

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

ONGOINGGroup Private Tastings

at Ferrari-CaranoVineyards 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 & Seminarsat 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

ONGOING SUNDAYSDomaine Carneros Sparkling Brunch

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

SONOMA COUNTY


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

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT

ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-Jacksonfu, Spa sv d & w as, 10am-4pm, $25707-571-7500, www.kj.m

ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz Winerycvda, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 as vs pa707-894-3389, www.zwy.m

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH50 Mile AV Vintner's Dining

ge,Baas& odVPn& SyasmAsVyad.fdssud ay. 4-7PM, rSVP, 707-935-3456, asws.m

ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at AnabaSma, ejy mpmay s & aks pa w yu was. 4-5:30pm, 707-996-4188, www.aabaws.m

ONGOING THURSDAY SUNDAYUnique Food & Wine Pairingsat HKG Tasting Roomg e, 12-6pm, 707-938-7622, www.pkwy.m

ONGOINGMoondance Cellars &Orchard Station Winesg e, Pad w W cuy cas tu tass, $10707-938-7550, 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 Grape Gondolagysv, 11:30am, $10, bx u pvdd $20

707-431-4811, www.yw.m

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Come 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 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

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

Au 26: Ka Mada

Sp 3: Ma B

Sp 10: f fsa d idpda

Sp 14: W ns & famy

Sp 15: r W

Sp 17: t Wdd exp

Sp 18: hb hak

Sp 23: Sy Mala

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

Au 25: Mama ts, Mama esa Vyads

ONGOING FRIDAYSSummer ConcertSeriesMdk Ams, hadsbu, www.mdkams.m, 707-431-8845

Au 26: cy f

Sp 3: Bs Mus

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

10-10:45am, www.am.m/sma, 707-938-9000


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16

ONGOING THROUGH AUGUST 29All Fired Uphadsbu c As, hadsbu

www.adsbuas.m, 707-431-1970

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH AUGUSTPetaluma Evening Farmers Markeths Dww Pauma, 4:30-8pm

www.paumaamsmak.m, 707-762-0344

ONGOING TUESDAYS THROUGH AUGUST

Tuesdays in the Plazahadsbu Paza, hadsbu, 6-8pm, , 707-433-6935

FRIDAYS THROUGH AUGUSTPetaluma Movies in the Parklus Pak, Pauma, 6:30pm, , www.paumamvs.m

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 4Body Language 2011A nw la gay, Supus, cs Sma, Sma

10am-5pm, www.supus.m, 707-933-1300

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBERReserve Tasting on the Patio

by the Pool at DeLoach VineyardsSaa rsa, gudd as w qu & p p. $25

By appm, 707-526-9111, www.davyads.m

ONGOING THROUGH OCTOBER 25Tuesday Night Farmers Market

Sma Paza, Sma, 5:30-7pm, 707-529-0404

ONGOING WEDNESDAY EVENINGSTHROUGH OCTOBER 19Wine & Sunsets in Paradiseat Paradise Ridge WinerySaa rsa B a p & jy sus & w m Vada &

ta! 6pm, www.pwy.m, 707-528-Wine

ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 21Petaluma River Sunset Wine & Cheese Eco-CruisePauma tu Bas, Pauma, 5:30-7:30pm

www.dspaumav., 707-763-7756

ONGOING THROUGH OCTOBERGarden Tours at DeLoach VineyardsSaa rsa, gudd as ws & sasa as m ad.

707-526-9111, www.davyads.m, $30

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

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

www.pwy.m, 707-528-Wine

AUGUST 25Live Music: Art Vs Science at Gundlach BundschuSma, 6:30pm, $20/adv, $25, www.ubu.m, 707-938-5277

AUGUST 26Wine Education Series at Gloria Ferrer:

Wine Tasting FUNdamentals

Sma, 10:30am-12pm, $25 pus ax

www.a.m, 707-933-1999

AUGUST 26Ride with Deb at Dutcher Crossinghadsbu, 9-11am, 707-431-2700

www.dusswy.m

AUGUST 26Pinot & Popcorn: Star WarsDla Vyads, Saa rsa $15, $10/mmbs, $5/kds

7:30pm ds p, mv a dak

www.davyads.m, 707-526-9111x110

AUGUST 26Balletto Vineyards Winemaker DinnerSaa rsa g & cuy cub, Saa rsa

www.bavyads.m, 707-568-2455

AUGUST 272008 Landslide Vineyard

Cabernet Sauvignon ReleaseSm Wy, hadsbu, 12-3pm, $15/mmbs, $25

www.smwy.m, 707-473-3213, rSVP

AUGUST 27Ravenswood Tasting AnniversarySma, 20 yas gk rad! 11am-4pm, $20, $15/ub

707 933-2336, [email protected]

AUGUST 27Summer Lobster Boilns ra Wy, Sma, 7-10pm, $120, $95/mmbs

www.sa.m, 707-938-8822

AUGUST 27

Zinfandel Lovers Rejoice!ravswd Wy, Sma, 11am-4pm, $20, $15/mmbs

www.avswd-w.m, 707-933-2326

AUGUST 27Rockin & Rollin on the RiverKb campa cas, guv, 11:30am-4pm

www.kb.m, 707-824-7000

AUGUST 27Vineyard & Varietal Explorationon Bradford Mountain VineyardPs Wy, hadsbu, 8am-1pm, $45, $35/mmbs

www.pswy.m, 707-431-7568

AUGUST 27Taste of PetalumaDww Pauma, 11:30am-4pm

www.aspauma., 707-763-8920

AUGUST 27Meet the ArtistReception: All Fired Uphadsbu c As, hadsbu, 2-5pm


AUGUST 27-28Bodega Seafood, Art & Wine FestivalWas ra, Bda, 10am-5pm

707-824-8717, www.wuysvas.m

AUGUST 28Founders & Proprietors Club

Release Party at Dutcher Crossinghadsbu, 11am-4pm, W cub ev

707-431-2700, www.dusswy.m

SEPTEMBER 1 OCTOBER 17Red Dot 2011 Think Twicehadsbu c As, hadsbu


SEPTEMBER 2-4Sonoma Wine Country WeekendSma Vay Vs & gws ad Sma cuy Vs

www.SmaWcuyWkd.m

Sp 2-3: Wy lu & D Pas

Sp 3: tas Sma, MaMuay ra , hadsbu

Sp 4: Sma Vay havs W Au, c cas, Sma

SEPTEMBER 2 OCTOBER 10ReflectionQua gay, Duas Ms

www.Quagay.m, 707-865-0243

SEPTEMBER 3Reflection ReceptionQua gay, Duas Ms, 4-7pm

www.Quagay.m, 707-865-0243

SEPTEMBER 4Classic Car Cruise-Ins Sunday

at B.R.Cohn Winerycass a usass a uad b w as!

g e, 11am-4pm, , www.b.m, 800-330-4064

SEPTEMBER 925th Annual Summer-Fall Winemaker Dinner

Series: Kosta Browne & Trecini Cellars

J Da Ksa, Pa & J, cay & Davd V, Pps

i a tds, Bda Bay, $120, www.ads.m, 800-541-7788

SEPTEMBER 1015th Annual Kendall-Jackson

Heirloom Tomato Festivalfu, 11am-4pm, www.kj.m, 707-571-8100

SEPTEMBER 10Wine Club Release & Harvest Party

at Wilson Wineryhadsbu, 800-433-4602, www.wswy.m

SEPTEMBER 10Orchard Walk & Mill TourMevy ra, Pauma, 10am-12pm, $30

www.mvya.m, 866-617-6779

SEPTEMBER 10

Wine Country Big QSma Aadmy, Saa rsa, 1-5pmwww.wuybq.m, 707-523-3728

SEPTEMBER 10ShakeYour Bun(dschu) DancePartyguda Budsu Wy, Sma, $20, 8:30-10:30pm

www.ubu.m, 707-938-5277

SEPTEMBER 10Opening Reception: Red Dot 2011 Think Twicehadsbu c As, hadsbu, 5-8pm


SEPTEMBER 11Home Cheesemaking Class with Sheana Davisof The Epicurean Connectiont Sma Vay i, Sma, 1-3pm, $45

www.saadavs.m, 707-935-7960, rSVP

SEPTEMBER 14-18Sonoma Valley CRUSHha Sma Vay Assa, Vaus vs a papa w

11am-4pm, $35, $10/dvs

www.asmavay.m, 707-479-9979

SEPTEMBER 14-21Santa Rosa International Film Festival

Wk- ba ma, as ad uua xa au

m a 100 ms m aud wd. Vaus vus/vs.

S pa 52 das. www.s., 707-935-3456

SEPTEMBER 16Harvest Winemaker Dinner at The Castlelds cas, Kwd, 6-10pm, $100, rSVP

www.dswy.m, 707-537-3823

SEPTEMBER 16Garden Walk & Lunch

Mevy ra, Pauma, 10am-2pm, $90www.mvya.m, 866-617-6779

SEPTEMBER 17Flavors of FallKb campa cas, guv, 11am-3:30pm

www.kb.m, 707-824-7000

SEPTEMBER 1725th Anniversary Celebration & Harvest PartyJ Vyads, hadsbu, 11am-4pm, $40/mmbs, $55

www.jw.m, 707-431-5430

SEPTEMBER 21Bossanova, Wine & Sunsets

at Paradise RidgeSaa rsa, 6-8:30pm, www.pwy.m, 707-528-Wine

SEPTEMBER 22Winemaker Dinner Series: Gloria Ferrer

Sa rsaua, fam Sma Mss i & Spa, Smawww.am.m/sma, 707-938-9000

SEPTEMBER 23-2625th Annual B.R.Cohn Fall Music FestivaB.r. c Wy, g e, www.b.m, 800-330-4064x126

Sp 23: cay D & Au w guy f, 6pm, $150

Sp 24: Mus fsva w Db Bs, J Saa, Sammy ha

g K, Jm Mssa & Pa Smms, J.

Sp 25: Mus fsva w lyyd Skyyd, Db Bs, Jm

Mssa, l russ, laa Js & cas rys

Sp 26: cby g tuam, Sma g cub

SEPTEMBER 24Wine Education Series at Gloria Ferrer:

Perfectly PinotSma, 10:30am-12pm, $30 pus ax, www.a.m, 707-933-1


17/80


18/80


19/80 1www.WineCountryThisWeek.com


by Michael Rockich

Hands Across the Valley will perform its 18th incarnation in NapaValley on September 10th. The event began in 1994 when community

leaders organized this annual fundraiser to raise funds for Napa Valley

food programs for needy families in Napa County. This registered non-

profit organization has brought in more than $3,000,000 since its

debut and is committed to working toward the goal of a community

without hunger. The site will be The Ranch Winery at 105 Zinfandel

Lane in St. Helena.

Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with a wine and food reception. Top

local wineries will pour their vinous treasures. In concert, outstanding

local food establishments and restaurants will provide gourmet treats.

Booths are organized in aisles outdoors on the lawn to permit easy

strolling. If the past is any indication of what is to come, expect aneclectic blend of exotic fare, the more conventional and hearty grilled

meat, too.

For the deft the idea is to negotiate as many of the wine booths and

food pavilions as possible before the actual dinner begins. The mating

of wines with various food types is not a bad experience to augment

ones ability as host and sommelier.

For those able to persevere the foregoing, Chef Kevin Miller will do

the honors on the buffet dinner. This hasalways been a delicious affair.

Chef Miller graduated with honors from the Culinary Institute in Port-

land, Oregon. After serving at several impressive restaurants, in 2007

he became Executive Chef for The Vintage Estate in Yountville.

A sit-down dinner is available for sponsors featuring the specialtouch of Chef Bob Hurley, proprietor of Hurleys restaurant in food

center Yountville.

Auction lovers will have the choice of a silent auction or a live

auction. The avid will choose to participate in both. On the block will

be gourmet dinners with outstanding chefs, overnight packages,

artisan and cult wine lots, wine tasting experiences, and retail offer-

ings. The Pio Rodas Richard, Rely and Gina will wield the

auctioneers gavel. Hopefully bidding action will be fast and furious.

One celebrity host this year is Mark Ibanez, with KTVU Channel 2.

He is the longest running sports reporter and anchor in the Bay Area.

Mark has received three Emmy Awards for his work. He also wrote a

best-seller, Marks Remarks, with proceeds benefiting the AmericanCancer Society.

The other celebrity host is Kellie Fuller of KVON and KVYN Radio.

Kellie grew up in Napa and showed childhood interest in music. She

later studied opera with accomplished tenor, William Gorton, and

eventually performed.

Once dinner is done many will be dancing under the stars to David

Martins House Party band. They have a reputation for enthusiastic

performances and wide musical variety.

To order tickets, or for further information please go online to

www.handsacrossthevalley.com.

Dont Miss the 18th Annual

Hands Across the Valley


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

WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

On Saturday, September 10 Charles Krug

Winery and the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family willgather to toast the 150th anniversary of Napa

Valleys first winerys annual Tasting on theLawn event.

In addition, Governor Edmund G. Brown

Jr. has proclaimed September 10 CharlesKrug Winery Day in honor of founder

Charles Krug and the innovations proprietor

Peter Mondavi Sr. has brought to the wineindustry over the past seven decades.

Founded in 1861, Charles Krug Wineryrepresents the birthplace of Napa Valley wine.

Peter Mondavi Jr. puts the winerys history in

perspective: 1861 was the year President

Lincoln was inaugurated, and the year theCivil War began. The venerable winery hasbeen in the Peter Mondavi Family for nearly

70 of its 150 years. The governors proclama-

tion will be presented to Peter Mondavi Sr.,96, during the annual event to be held in the

shade of heritage oaks thought to have been

planted by Charles Krug himself.Also for the 150th anniversary, Peter

Mondavi Sr. has recently announced his searchfor the oldest Charles Krug Winery bottle in

existence. The public is encouraged to scour

wine cabinets, cellars, closets and caves for the

oldest Charles Krug bottle they canfind, emptyor full. To submit an entry, participants should

visit Charles Krug Winery on Facebook anddescribe the bottle and post a photo, or email

it to [email protected]. Early

bottle entries may be displayed at the Tastingon the Lawn.

A summary of the Tasting

j21on the Lawn activities:

Visitors will enjoy tastings of all CharlesKrugs current releases, from Sauvignon Blanc

to Cabernet Sauvignon, including the winerys

Limited Release and Family Reserve wines.

Tastings will be paired with a moveable feastselected especially to complement the winesby Knickerbockers Catering.

Chefs from several Napa Valley restaurants

will also be on hand, serving samples of theirspecialties to pair with Charles Krug wines.

Featured restaurants are Michael Chiarellos

acclaimed Bottega, Cindy Pawlcyns eclecticBackstreet Kitchen, and her brand new

Mediterranean eatery, Brassica.Recently added: In addition to the chefs

pairings mentioned above, members of the

fourth generation of the Peter Mondavi Fam

will share what they are calling easy everypairings Charles Krug wines served w

fun, casual foods like pizza from the wofired oven, grilled burgers, tacos and e

popcorn to demonstrate that you don't h

to be a chef to perfectly pair Charles Kwine with food.

To add to the festive ambiance of the c

bration, actors portraying Charles Krughis wife Carolina Bale Krug will stroll

Great Lawn in period costume, presentvignettes from their lives 150 years ago. A

on display will be Charles Krugs anti

basket press, originally used for cider, wh

he used for his historic first grape pressingTwo opportunities will offer a taste of N

wine history that guests will get nowhere e

There will be special pourings from magnu

of Charles Krugs 150th Anniversary CaberSauvignon, and a rare tasting of older w

from the estates cellar (additional fee appli

These premium tastings will take place inballroom of Charles Krugs 1881 Carri

House. The Carriage House ballroom boassoaring cathedral ceiling and stunning peri

design chandeliers and was recently resto

Governor Proclaims September 10Charles Krug Winery Day

Tasting on the LawnEvent Celebrates 150th Anniversary of Napas First Winer


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

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR

using heritage redwood recovered

from historic wine tanks.All attendees will have the

opportunity to enjoy wine tasting

directly from the barrels and meetmembers of the Peter Mondavi

Family, who will be on hand forphotos and to sign bottles for visi-

tors.

Live music on the main stagewill provide a backdrop for all of

the festivities. Featured is thepopular Steely Dan tribute band,

Steely Scam.

Tastings on the Lawn werestarted in 1951 as an enjoyable

venue where the family couldmeet their customers, and

educate visitors about fine wine:

in the United States at that time,the wine industry was known

more for jug wines and not vari-

etal wines. This Charles Krugtradition is believed to have been

the first wine celebration of itskind, and went on to inspire

myriad other wine country

tasting events.

Lawn chairs, picnic blankets,and sun hats are encouraged for

the September 10 event, whichruns from 2 to 5 p.m. Tickets are

available online ($40) atwww.charleskrug.com. Admis-

sion for Wine Club members is

complimentary, by calling WineClub Manager Colin Wright at 1-

888-747-5784. Charles Krug

Winery is located at 2800 MainStreet, St. Helena.


22/80


WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Winemaker James MacPhail Will Lead Sequana and MacPhail

Winemaker James MacPhail is joining The Hess Collection in a

move described as a coming together of two families, bringing alonghis MacPhail Family Wines while continuing his work as the founding

winemaker for Sequana Vineyards.

The Hess Collection will acquire the MacPhail Family Winesbrand, as well as existing inventory, and winemaker MacPhail will

continue to be the hands-on winemaker for both Sequana Vineyards

and MacPhail Family Wines.While working with the team at The Hess Collection to build

Sequana Vineyards, I developed a solid appreciation of our shared

ideals and commitment to Pinot Noir, explained MacPhail. This

union allows me to focus on what I love to do best, which is simplycrafting limited production Pinot Noir from exceptional appellations

and continuing our exploration of the finest Pinot Noir vineyards.

Gary Bulger, president of The Hess Collection, said MacPhailFamily Wines complements and builds on the success that Sequana

Vineyards has enjoyed since its first vintage in 2007. We have longconsidered James to be a part of our extended family, and we welcomethe opportunity to enhance and enrich our relationship. Bulger said

no changes are planned with either winery.

MacPhail Family Wines was founded in 2002 with a sole passion

to handcraft Pinot Noir from premier Sonoma and Anderson Valley/Mendocino appellations. Sequana Vineyards, with a debut vintage in

2007, focuses on cool-climate growing regions, principally Green

Valley of the Russian River Valley and the Santa Lucia Highlands in

Monterey. Both projects have received notable acclaim from w

reviewers and the wine trade alike.

MacPhail Family Wines and Sequana Vineyards offer a variety

vineyard designated wines of limited production, usually just a

hundred cases for each expression. MacPhail produces 4,000 c

annually, while Sequana produces about 11,000 cases each year.Sequana Vineyards wines range in price from $32 to $50, w

MacPhail Family Wines offerings at $40 to $60.

James MacPhail followed an unconventional path to winemak

growing up in Marin County in a family with roots dating to the 18

and broad-ranging interests in disparate business interests, includ

dairy farming near Tomales Bay as well as ventures in applian

building materials and natural gas.

His early experiences included travel, the arts and athletics.

became an accomplished classical pianist and bagpiper, m

famously playing Amazing Grace solo in San Franciscos Dav

Symphony Hall for Queen Elizabeth when she visited Northern C

fornia in 1982. In 1983, he became the youngest swimmer to swacross the Golden Gate, and remains a nationally ranked Masters C

competitive swimmer.

After a career in hospitality, he began apprenticing with not

Sonoma County winemakers where he quickly focused on Pinot N

and a passionate bond was formed. He still crafts other varietals i

much appreciated wines, but Pinot Noir has become his signature

For me, Sequana and MacPhail Family wines are all about creat

and sharing my passion, whenever and wherever I can.

MacPhail Family Wines Joins The Hess Collectio

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24

by Ronda Giangreco

Any idea what a Ding Wall Scotty, Pink Russian 117 or Earl ofEdgecomb might be? Odd cocktail concoctions or garage bands

would be a good guess but youd be wrong.Youll find the answer to this Jeopardy stumper at the 15th

Annual Kendall-Jackson Heirloom Tomato Festival on Saturday,September 10th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festival will featuretomato-inspired gourmet treats for you to feast on, as well assamples of more than 170 different varieties of heirloom tomatoesthat have been lovingly grown on the estate. There will also be someof the finest artisan breads and cheeses from around the area forguests to savor. Festival goers will enjoy live music, seminars on foodand wine pairing and, of course, lots of fabulous wine.

Just like wine grapes, heirloom tomatoes have a broad range offlavors, colors and aromatics depending on the variety. Green toma-

toes might offer citrus notes like Sauvignon Blanc, while darkertomatoes can deliver flavors of red fruits like Pinot Noir. And likewines, these tomatoes have certain foods that pair perfectly withtheir unique characteristics.

It is not surprising that Kendall-Jackson would host such anevent. The winery has always been focused on flavor and not just inthe magnificent wines they produce. This annual festival is awonderful celebration of the bounty of our wine country and areminder that grapes are not the only fruit that loves the cool nightsand warm, lazy days of summer for which the region is famous.

Tickets for this extremely popular event are $65 per person forgeneral admission. If you happen to be a member of their wine club,youll enjoy a savings of $20 on your ticket price, too. There will

even be a special V.I.P. tent at the festival for wine club members toenjoy special wines selected just for them.

Call Connie or Farideh at 1-800-769-3649 for more informationor to order your tickets at the special Wine Club member pricing.They can also help you join the wine club so that you can save ongreat wines as well as this entertaining event.

Kendall-Jacksons Heirloom Tomato Festiva


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2

707-227-3250 or 888-279-6272 | www.BlackStallionWinery.com

Open daily from 10am to 5pm

4089 Silverado Trail, Napa, California


26/8026 Follow us on Twitter @WineCountryT


by Anna Wayne

With an annual production of 5,000 cases, Arger-Martucci Vine-

yards is one of the most intimate and unique tasting experiences in the

Napa Valley. During your poolside tasting that offers views of the

western Mayacamas Mountains and neighboring vineyards, you will

have the opportunity to enjoy your own picnic lunch, as well as the

company of one of the tasting rooms knowledgeable staff members.The relaxing atmosphere and oasis-like environment allows you to do

exactly what you want to: take your mind off the real world and focus

on the wine you are drinking.

Founded in 1998, the partnership of Arger-Martucci Vineyards is

more than a business venture between two owners; it is a love and

appreciation of making great wine that is shared by two families one

of Greek, the other of Italian descent. Owned and managed by the

Argers and Martuccis, the enterprise is a culmination of varied talents

and expertise with one common goal: to produce limited amounts of

premium handcrafted wine.

The winery produces over ten different varietals, most of which are

harvested from Arger-Martuccis estate vineyard located 1,350 feetabove the valley floor in the Atlas Peak region of Napa Valley. Two of

their flagship wines include a red proprietary blend, theOdyssey,anda

white proprietary blend, the Iliad. Demonstrating the true art of wine-

making, both blends exemplify the masterful skill and expert palate of

Owner, Winemaker and practicing Cardiologist, Dr. Kosta Arger. The

2005 Odyssey, their Estate Reserve and wine that was recently awarded

93 Points/Cellar Selection in Wine Enthusiast, is a Bordeaux-style

blend that contains varying amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,

Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and now Syrah. It is an incredibly

complex and elegant wine with layers of chocolate and black cherry.

These delightful characteristics are derived from both the volcanic s

on Atlas Peak and the winemakers use of French, American

Hungarian oak.

The Iliad was released August 1, 2009 and is now their top-sel

wine. It serves as a complement to the Odyssey, and achieves a b

flavor and richness that prove superior to any of its individual p

The four aromatic varietals that compose the Iliad are Viognier, Sau

gnon Blanc, Gewrztraminer and Muscat of Alexandria. The bouqis truly exotic with an immediate impression of melon, pear and e

coconut. The mouth-feel is incredibly rich with hints of tropical sp

which suggests Viognier first, then Gewurtztraminer, and finally, a

of grapefruit from the Sauvignon Blanc. There is a small amount (

than one-half of one percent) of residual sugar, which enhances

richness on the palate. This wine serves as a wonderful aperitif an

an excellent complement to spicy foods.

Dr. Argers winemaking style has always maintained element

traditional techniques. The 2005 Carneros Pinot Noir is a cla

example of how he has been able to bridge the gap between

reserved elegance of the old world and lush complexities of new w

fruit. Boasting a rich nose of plum and chocolate-covered black cries, this Pinot is perfectly balanced on the palate and reveals a ga

color true to Burgundy.

The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is a great example of why N

Valley is the best region in the United States to produce this varie

Aged in French, American and Hungarian oak, this Napa Cab cont

a small amount of Merlot, which slightly softens the tannins. There

many layers of complexity with nuances of cinnamon and tobacc

this wine.

Their gold medal winning and very popular Syrah exhibits

flavors of cherry and white pepper. Not an overwhelming mouth

ARGERMARTUCCI VINEYARDSA Napa Valley Hidden Gem


27/80

this wine manages to be both earthy and reserved in the same sip. This

is another superb example of the slightly restrained style employed by

Dr. Arger.

Also produced at Arger-Martucci Vineyards are tiny amounts of

Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Ros and a dessert wine, Dulcinea. The

Petite Sirah is harvested from one hundred and forty-year-old vines

near Calistoga and is incredibly rich with intense, bold flavors. Their

Cabernet Franc maintains classic notes of earth and spice, truly char-

acteristic of this Bordeaux varietal. The Ros, named Saignie Sauvage

(or wild blood) is one of Cabernet Sauvignon that has been rumored

to be one of the best in the Valley. Finally, the Dulcinea, a late harvest

dessert wine, is composed of 100% botrytized Sauvignon Blanc and

Semillon. It has been referred to by some as pure heaven and nectar

of the gods, and as so, the 2004 vintage has completely sold out.

They also have an amazing deal for their wine club. For a great price

(only $110 per shipment plus shipping), you receive four wines, three

times a year. Included are library wines and wines that have not been

released to the public so you can be some of the first to sample the new

vintages. Complementary tastings, cheese pairings and discounts are

also included in this incredible package. You will also receive informa-

tion about exciting events held at the winery and around the country.

Held in mid to late September will be the 2010 Harvest Party. Please

visit their website for more information at www.arger-martucci.com.

As an enthusiast of family-owned, boutique wineries, I encourage

everyone to visit Arger-Martuccis quaint tasting room and experie

the impressive array of fine wines they have to offer. Located at 1

Inglewood Ave, just south of the town of St. Helena, the tasting ro

is open to the public seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

more information, call the winery at (707) 963-4334 or add them

friend on Facebook at www.facebook.com/argermartucci.



2

Continued


28/80



by Charles Neave

The Artesa Vineyards & Winery tasting

experience begins well before you walk in

the front door of this award-winning Napawinery. It begins with the drive through the

Carneros region, which borders on what

becomes San Francisco Bay. In fact, when

the breeze is just right and it usually is

you can smell the salt water in the air, one

of the factors that makes this part of wine

country ideal for growing Chardonnay and

Pinot Noir grapes, the two components that

make great sparkling wine and stand alone

as outstanding examples of these varietals.

When you get to the drive up to thewinery you sweep past even more vineyards

and then encounter what is surely one of the

most intriguing wineries in Northern Cali-

fornia. All angles and drama it incorporates

spectacular water elements fountains,

reflecting pond, jets of water. With them

there is sculpture and plantings of native

plants everywhere. Depending on when you

visit you may well spot flocks of sheep

tending and trimming the vineyards, part of

the winerys approach to sustainability and

natural practices of farming. Shepherds and

sheep dogs (and temporary fences) make

sure that the lambs and sheep do their best

to keep the vineyards trimmed and pristine.Going up to the winery water cascades

down between the two sets of steps. It is, as

you will immediately discover, a photo

opportunity in the making. On my last visit,

couples from Montreal, Paris, Umbria, New

Hampshire and Wisconsin all were being

immortalized in vacation photographs.

Inside you are greeted at the front desk

then directed past the exceptional retail area

to the tasting bars. The floors are light

wood, the walls are adorned with a rotatingexhibit of contemporary art, lighting is

sublime and in the center of the square is an

open space that lets natural light into this

spacious environment. It also features a

vintage grape press, which harks back to the

centuries-old heritage of this Spanish-

owned winery.

Doors and windows open onto patios

that provide views of vineyards that, liter-

ally, stretch for miles, and to the back look

over the production facility. Everywhere

look, from the Single Vineyard Room w

its leather couches and secluded air, to

Members Only Room for wine c

members, to the open areas where everycan (and does) congregate, it is a spe

place to sample some of the special wine

the region, from still to sparkling.

The wines on the two tasting menu

the Classic and the Limited Release

Reserve include their Chardonnays, P

Noirs and Cabernets as well as s

surprises as the limited release Pinot Bl

an Albarino and a Merlot. Plus, a spark

of course. In all it is a chance to explore

region and the fruit of their carefully tenvineyards, to revel in this striking prop

and enjoy the hospitality that has alw

been a hallmark of Artesa.

The tasting room at is open daily from

a.m. until 5 p.m. There are also many t

and tasting options available, which

should look up on their website

www.artesawinery.com. They are locate

1345 Henry Road, Napa; the phone num

is 1-888-679-9463

Tasting Room of the Week:

Artesa Vineyards & Winery


29/80

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY ATTRACTION

2 for 1 Tasting with this ad


30/80

The folks at David Fulton Winery are famous for making just one

wine from their 150-year-old estate: Petite Sirah but admit there are

so many more wines to love. Theyve invited their friends (and neigh-

bors) Scott and Jana Harvey to showcase a few other varietals along

with their Petite Sirah at 825 Fulton Lane, in St Helena.Visitors are now invited to stop in weekends anytime between 11

a.m. and 4 p.m., (this includes Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and

Mondays) to taste two vintages of David Fultons award-winning Petite

Sirah, along with Scott Harveys 2008 Barbera, 2010 Sauvignon Blanc

and a fun little white wine blend called One Last Kiss.

These wines go really well together and the variety offers some-

thing for every wine-tasting palate, says Stephanie Trotter Zacharia,

DFW Director Of Winemaking & Sales. Weve got big, inky, teeth-

staining reds all the way to lightly sweet, chilled whites. Its fun to offer

a selection of award-winning wines which are otherwise unavailable to

Napa Valley visitors.

The tasting fee is still just $10 and refundable with a purchase, ofcourse. Shipping is always available.

Scott Harvey Wines, established in 2004, produces niche wines

that over-deliver. Scott Harvey, owner and winemaker, has been

making quality wines for more than 30 years. Weve been enjoying

Scotts winemaking style for many years at dinner together, says

Fulton Mather, owner David Fulton Winery. Were excited to share

what weve been enjoying

David Fulton Winery &

Vineyards is located at 825

Fulton Lane, just four blocks

east of Highway 29, in Napa

Valleys historic St. Helena. Thevineyard and winerys current

owners are David Fultons

great-grandson, Fulton Mather

and his wife, Dink. Along with

wine club members, friends

and family, they pick and sort

their Petite Sirah by hand be

fermentation. They use a traditio

basket press and age the wine

nearly three years in thin-sta

French oak barrels in the same lo

tion as the original cellar had b

dug in 1861. The resulting win

highly acclaimed among their p

and a favorite referral among Pe

Sirah fans.

Insider Tip

If youd like to taste the 2007 Calafia Cabernet Sauvignon,

private label of Randle Johnson, another Fulton Lane neighbor and

Director of Winemaking at the Hess Collection and DFW Consul

Winemaker be sure to request it (separate tasting fee may apply

Please note that the winery doesnt have any commercial sign

so youll have to look for the address (825 Fulton Lane) to enjoy

winerys private setting!

For more information, go to the websites at www.CalafiaCellars.c

www.ScottHarveyWines.com and www.DavidFultonWinery.c

Follow them on Twitter: @DavidFultonPS and find them on F

book and be sure to check in when you visit! The phone numbe

(707) 967-0719.



Great Wines Come Together with Friends, Neighbor

Scott and Jana Harvey

Fulton Mather


31/80



3

Summer Movie Series Benefits Napa Valley Family Centers

Sterling Vineyards, the landmark Calistoga winery, announces the

ninth annual Sterling Silver Screen Series. Once again, through the

generosity of NBC Universal, the 2011 summer season of movies in

the vineyards will feature classic and neo-classic films in a range ofgenres from the Universal archives. All proceeds from the summer

screenings will benefit two local non profits; the Calistoga Family

Center and the St. Helena Family Centers. To date, the Sterling Silver

Screen program has raised more than $120,000 for local charities.

The next Sterling Silver Screening features Seabiscuit, on Saturday,

September 10. This is the true story of the Depression-era racehorse

that, despite his small stature and a slight limp, became an unlikely

track champion and symbol of hope for a generation of Americans.

Seabiscuit united his owner, trainer, jockey and an entire nation and

proved that heart and tenacity can triumph against all odds.

The season concludes on Saturday, October 1 with Saboteur, a

1942 Hitchcock thriller. When sabotage destroys part of an aircraft

factory, plant worker Barry Kane is accused of the crime. In an

attempt to clear his name, he sets out to track down the man he

believes to be the actual saboteur. The two men confront each other in

a memorable showdown atop the Statue of Liberty. A precursor to

North by Northwest and The Fugitive, the Saboteur screenplay was

written by the legendary Dorothy Parker.

The Sterling Silver Screen Series is very popular with Valley resi-

dents said Mark Mathewson, Sterling Vineyards Visitors Center

Manager. Remarkably, we have fans that plan their summer getaways

around our screening schedule. Bring your friends and family to Ster-

ling, watch a great movie over a glass of wine and benefit two localcauses.

Each screening offers wine tasting and festival seating on the Ster-

ling Vineyard Meadow at Sterling Vineyards, 1111 Dunaweal Lane in

Calistoga. All Sterling Silver Screen films are suitable for informed

family viewing; however, parents are suggested to review MPAA advi-

sories online in advance of attendance - and note that some films are

not rated.

The grounds open at 7 p.m. and guests are encouraged to arrive

early, dress in layers and bring a blanket or low backed beach chairs

to sit on. A pre-show of classic cartoons, followed by the feature

presentation, begins at dusk. Admission tickets are $10 for adults and

$5 for children (under 16). All proceeds from tickets sales and a

percentage of wine sales benefit the non-profit Stars & Vines Fu

More information is available online at www.sterlingvineyards.com

by calling (707) 942-3322.

About Sterling Vineyards

Sterling Vineyards is produced by Diageo Chateau & Estate W

(DC&E), which is part of Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O); the worlds lead

premium drinks business. DC&E produces and markets prem

wines from around the globe including Napa Valley, Sonoma, the C

fornia Central Coast, France, Italy, New Zealand and Australia. Bra

include: Beaulieu Vineyard, Sterling Vintners Collection, Chal

Vineyard, Acacia Vineyard and Rosenblum Cellars. DC&E is als

leading importer of estate-bottled wines from Burgundy. For m

information about Diageo, its people, brands and performance, v

us at www.diageo.com.

Sterling Vineyards Presents Sterling Silver Screen Serie


32/80


S U I S U N V A L L E Y

by Ronda Giangreco

With the sun finally shining again, thoughts turn to idyllic after-

noons in the wine country. Unfortunately, thousands of others are

simultaneous entertaining similar plans for their weekend getaway. If

elbowing your way through crowds is not your idea of the perfect wine

country experience, perhaps what you need to do is make a slight

course correction and head just a smidgen east of the more well-trav-

eled roads. Nestled just around the bend and over some rolling

foothills from the Napa Valley lay the often overlooked, but equally

spectacular wineries of the Suisun Valley.

Vezr Family Vineyards is one of the more picturesque and inviting

of the Suisun Valley wine region. Owned by the famously friendly and

welcoming Frank and Liz Vezr, the winery is a refreshing break fromthe hustle and bustle of their more well-known neighbors over the hill.

Their winery is best known for the luscious Petite Sirah that they

produce, as well as their hearty, fruit-forward Zinfandel and a little

known, but magnificent blend, La Salette. While lacking the big name

appellation, these wines are by no means also-rans. In fact, the region

is rated as the oldest and best in the State of California by the U.C

Davis University. These are seriously good wines.

With a climate that boasts of sun-drenched days and sweet foggy

nights, the grapes of the Vezr Family Vineyards enjoy near perfect

growing conditions. Many of the regions grapes actually end up in the

wines of their more famous neighbors to the west. But to taste the fruit

of the Suisun Valley, it is best to go directly to the source.Frank and Liz Vezr established their winery in 2001, producing

their first vintage of Zinfandel in 2003. They have been listening the

sound of applause ever since. They arent doing it alone, though. This

truly is a family winery with daughter, Gabby, taking on the marketing

duties, son-in-law, Jake, acting as Cellar Master, daughter Cassie

handling the special events and daughter Sophie creating floral

arrangements for the numerous weddings held on the winerys spec-

tacular grounds. Even the couples youngest daughter, Frankie, gets in

on the act helping out at dinners and events.

The Vezr Family Vineyard tasting room is located in the tiny

village of Mankas Corners. The town was originally established by a

local miner in 1846. Hints of its old west history can be seen in the oldgeneral store and surrounding buildings. The winery actually holds

the distinction of being on the National Historic Registry from its days

as a stopping point in for the famous Pony Express.

The tasting room is open seven days a week and no appointment is

necessary. The ten dollar tasting fee is waived with a wine purchase.

But to really get the most out of your visit, opt for their VIP Barrel

Blend Tour. This privately escorted tour consists of a sampling of the

winerys Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio in the tasting room. You are

then lead the stately Blue Victorian mansion for a Trio Amici barrel

tasting, plus two additional Proprietors Barrel choice tastings,

finishing off with a red and white port sample, complete with a tfood pairing. At a bargain price of $35, this tour is well worth the e

investment.

But dont just come to the Vezr Family Vineyards for the fant

wines. All the fixings for a marvelous picnic are available at the

next door and the gardens of the estate are simply breathtaking

time of year.

Best of all, while you are relaxing in the sunshine enjoying y

picnic, you can congratulate yourself on finding premium wine

fascinating historical setting and picturesque gardens while every

else is simply trying to find a parking place!

Summer Concerts with Vezr Family Vineyard

Garden Concert Series- Enjoy a memorable evening of entertainment under the stars

- Relax with a glass of wine as you listen to R&B, Jazz or Classic Rock

- Seating is limited, get your tickets early

- Concert time: 4-7pm

- Food & wine extra but can be served right at your tabl e $19.50

September 3rd Joe Mattox & Friends

This dynamic musical group, featuring the multitalented blues guitarist jazzvocalist Joe Mattox collectively will expand your musical horizon, appeal to

every musical pallet and leave you wanting more. Joe Mattox and friends have

performed with Lightening Hopkins & Mary Wells. They were the opening act

for Santana, Big Brother and the Holding Company, John Lee Hooker Jr, the

Average White Band, Grand Central Station, and more! Joe Mattox & Friendswill make you dance and bring back great musical memories.

September 17th Ritmojito www.ritmojito.comRitmojito present superbly crafted songs with deep latin jazz grooves.

Whether its Salsa, Ska or Samba youll be up on your feet from the start. This

concert will be at Mankas Corner 2522 Mankas Corner Road, Suisun Valley.


33/803Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

The Napa Back Road

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VEZRPrivate Ranch

& Tasting RoomBY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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WINERYVEZR FAMILY WINERYGardens, Deli & Barista

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SuisunValley

Napa

CordeliaANHEUSER BUSCHBREWERY TOURS

JELLY BELLYFACTORY AND TOURS

Rock Creek Vineyard

AltamuraVineyards

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

Three Locations to VisitNapa?s Little Sister Sue~ Suisu

Taste Award-Winning Wines

ATV, Wine Blending & Barrel Tastin

Summer Concerts Private Dinne

Three Beautiful Wedding or Corporat

M ANKAS CORNER2522 Mankas Corner Road, Suisun Valley

422-8025

Visit the historic Pony Express Off

featuring Wine Tasting, Gift Sho

Caf, Deli & Gardens. Open Daily NO

ment Needed! Groups 12 to 200 welcom

10am to 5pm Sunday through Friday, ope

6pm on Saturday.

BLUE VICTORIAN W INERY5071 Suisun Valley Road, Suisun Valley

429-3958Enjoy this historic landmarks? picture

elegant tasting room, manicured

gardens and bocce ball. Open Daily

appointment needed. Groups to 200 wel

10am to 5pm Sunday through Friday, ope

Estate Ranch ATV Vine

TourVineyard Tour via 6-passenger

Panoramic views during the 1-houRelax for a seated tasting in t

COMPLIMENTARY TASTINGPresent this ad for complimentary daily tasting at Man

Blue Victorian

SUISUN VALLEY EVENTS

AUGUST 27

Music & A Slab in the Vines

Vz famy Vyad, Susu Vay, www.vzamyvyad.m, 888-823-Vine

SEPTEMBER 2Pick-up Party Movie Night in the Gardens

W cub Mmb ev Vz famy Vyad, Susu Vay

www.vzamyvyad.m, 888-823-Vine

SEPTEMBER 3, 17

Mankas Summer Series Garden Concerts

Vz famy Vyad, Susu Vay


SEPTEMBER 24

California Candy Festival

Jy By Vss c & fay, fad, 11am-6pm, $15

www.aaadysva.m

OCTOBER 1, 15Mankas Summer Series Garden ConcertsVz famy Vyad,

Susu Vay


NOVEMBER 11

Annual Chieftan Dinner

Vz famy Vyad, Susu Vay



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by Charles Neave

If you think of it, it is a slight bit odd: of

the 400-plus wineries in the Napa Valley, very

few of them are actually in the Valleys townsand cities. There is one in Napa, a few in

Rutherford and Oakville and Yountville. Sure

there are cooperative and single winery

tasting rooms, and plenty of wine bars. But

actual brick-and-mortar wineries? Not many.

Merryvale Vineyards, in St. Helena, is one of

those few exceptions, and a spectacular pres-

ence it is.

Set just off of Main Street (also known as

Highway 29) on the east side just as you enter

this popular wine country town, it was alsothe first winery then called Sunny St.

Helena to be built after the repeal of that

social and economic disaster called Prohibi-

tion, and was a needed show of confidence to

vintners and previously shuttered wineries

across the country.

Even before you enter the winery it is

somewhat breathtaking. The grounds are

carefully manicured, the fountain in the

middle bubbles and there is an old stone two-

wheel press off in one corner. The buildings

faade is more than a match for its surround-

ings though.

Family owned, the winery is dedicated to

two things in particular a passion formaking fine wine and sustainable farming.

For the past quarter century, Merryvale has

been turning exceptional Napa Valley grapes

into highly coveted wine. They produce

about 10,000 cases of wine a year, and the

varietals they employ include Sauvignon

Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir,

Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet

Sauvignon. Their most notable and highly

acclaimed wine is called Profile, a proprietary

red blend using Bordeaux varietals. Theirvery limited production dessert wine is

named Antiqua.

Of course what you really need to do is go

and taste the wines, offered in tiers of four

wines or the Reserve Tasting with six wines.

There are also private tastings in the Barrel

Room. On weekends tasting bars are often set

up in the working part of the winery, so visi-

tors never need to feel crowded. There is also

the Cask Room, with its enormous 22,000-

gallon, wood fermentation tank bought fr

Christian Brothers up the road (now the C

nary Institute of America) and part of

original winery. Many memorable events

dinners have been held in this stone-waroom.

The tasting room itself, with the large

shaped bar made of fir and redwood, i

popular destination year-round. The en

space features lots of wood; there is eve

bench made out of well-used barrel stav

There are also wine and artisan cheese t

ings available. The staff is unfailing frien

helpful and knowledgeable, able to ans

questions about each wine, the wine

history, the area and more. They are obviouproud of the wines they pour and of

winery itself. It is enjoyable, enlightening

in all ways memorable.

The tasting room at Merryvale is loca

at 1000 Main Street in St. Helena. They

open every day from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p

For more information on visiting the win

their wine club or special events, call th

at (707) 963-7777 or via the internet

www.merryvale.com.

Tasting Room of the Week:

Merryvale Vineyards


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE

3


36/80

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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

by Charles Neave

I have always thought that going to Judds Hill Winery, at the

southern end of the Silverado Trail in the Napa Valley, is an adventure.

The winery building itself brings back memories of farms and home-

steads you might only remember from movies. Outside the door intothe very well-appointed tasting room there is a coop with Rhode

Island Red chickens and nature is everywhere. If a hobbit popped up

now and then it would not surprise me.

Winemaker Kenn Vigoda, a Detroit native, has all the credentials

youd look for in a winemaker. Ive been here three years, since June

of 2008. Before that I was at Raymond Cellars for 24 years. That was

my first job in the wine industry. I started the wine lab at Raymond

then worked my way up to winemaking. But to begin with I got a

chemistry degree from Oakland University in Michigan, then I did two

years postgraduate study at USC, which is how I got to California.

As Vigoda describes production at Judds Hill, We do 3,000 cases

a year for the Judds Hill label, and 9,000 cases for microcrush clients,so a total of 12,000 cases a year.

Microcrush? Thats when someone brings in fruit fro

Nor Cal Edition - Aug 26, 2011

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Transcript of Nor Cal Edition - Aug 26, 2011