nor cal edition - march 15, 2013

7/29/2019 Nor Cal Edition - March 15, 2013

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RHONE

RANGERS

WEEKEND

PAGE 21

B WISE

VINEYARDS

IN KENWOOD

PAGE 22

DAVID

FULTON

WINERY

PAGE 30

HISTORICAL

WINERIES

TOUR

PAGE 41

SAVOR

SONOMA

VALLEY

PAGE 58

THE MAGIC OF

SANTA CRUZ

MOUNTAINS

PAGE 67

TOP

CAVE

TOUR

PAGES 73

YO UR GU ID E TO NO RT HE RN CA LI FO RN IA WI NE RI ES , TH IN GS TO DO & EV EN TS

MARCH 15, 20

REE

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS

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www.WnCnrythWk.c

WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

Come Toast to Spring!

Please join us for a visit andtaste our fabulous wines!

Private Carriage House availablefor Weddings and Events

2

More than 1,000 distribution points

Read by more than 2 million people annually

www.winecountrythisweek.com

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476

P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike GiangrecoDirect (707) 938-3734

[email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Chandra Grant

Phone 707-938-1783 Fax 707-938-3674

Email [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER & Cathy GoreCALENDAR EDITOR Phone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674

Email [email protected]

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DISTRIBUTION 707-304-6464 or [email protected]

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SINGLE COPY Send check for $5 to

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EDITORIAL Karin Argoud, Michelle Baker, Alexandra CharsleyCONTRIBUTORS Monica Dashwood, Mike Hyland, Denise Olliffe

Laura Ness, Charles Neave, Josh Stein,

Sue Straight - The Wine Wench

and Abigail Zimmerman

MEDIA

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

www.facebook.com/WineCountryThisWeek

@WineCountryTW

S A L E S

General Sales Mike Giangreco

707-938-3734, [email protected]

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

Napa Valley RoseAnn Trzesniewski

707-334-1930, [email protected]

Livermore, Treasure Island, Mike GiangrecoMonterey Bay, Central Coast [email protected]

Santa Cruz Mountains 707-938-3734

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

Published Weekly Since 1981

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

or download the current issue at www.winecountrythismonth.com


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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK MARCH 15, 2013 | ISSUE 11, VOLUME

FEATURES REGULARSWINE REGIONS8 | NORTHERN CALIFORNIA MAP

31 | SUISUN VALLEY

34 | NAPA VALLEYNapa Valley Wineries Map, 44-45Yountville, 36-37Downtown Napa Map, 39St. Helena Map, 41Calistoga, 42-43

46 | SONOMA COUNTYSonoma County Wineries Map, 46-47Northern Sonoma County Wineries Map, 48Downtown Healdsburg Map, 50Geyserville Wineries Map, 52Sonoma Valley Wineries Map, 56Sonoma Plaza Map, 61Glen Ellen & Kenwood Map, 63

64 | MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIESLake & Mendocino Counties Map, 64

66 | SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ & MONTEREY COUNTIESMonterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map, 66Salinas Valley Wineries Map, 69

70 | LIVERMORE VALLEYLivermore Valley Map, 70

21 16TH ANNUAL RHONE RANGERS WEEKEND CELEBRATION

22 B WISE VINEYARDSGreat Wines, Not to be Missed!

26 ON THE COVER: ROMBAUER VINEYARDSNine Golds And Double-Golds In The Last Three Months!

30 DAVID FULTON WINERY153-Year-Old Petite Sirah Vines

36 20TH ANNUAL TASTE OF YOUNTVILL EBringing Fine Art and Special Events to the Napa Valley

41 NAPA VALLEY HISTORICAL WINERIES TOUR, LUNCHEON

54 TASTING ROOM OF THE WEEK:MARTIN RAY WINERY

55 MUSCARDINI CELLARSNew Tasting Room Opens in Kenwood

58 2013 SAVOR SONOMA VALLEY: MARCH 16 & 17

67 THE SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINSTaste the Magic

70 GARR VINEYARD & WINERYLivermore Valley Barrel Tasting Weekend

6 | WINE COUNTRY DEALS & DISCOUNTS

10 | WINEOLOGYBy Len NapolitanoIs it sulfites in wine that give me headaches?

12 | WINE GROWING DESICIONS By Josh SteinTrellising: How Grapevines Got a Shape

14 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

21 | WINE COUNTRY LODGING

32 | CONCIERGE FAVORITES

71 | WINERY LISTINGSNapa Valley, 71

Sonoma County, 76

Monterey, Santa Cruz & Santa Clara Counties, 82

Lake & Mendocino Counties, 83

Suisun, 84

Bay Area/Livermore, 85

73 | NAPA VALLEYS TOP 5 CAVE TOURS75 | PET FRIENDLY WINERIES77 | SONOMA COUNTYS TOP 5 CAVE TOURS85 | DINING DIRECTORY

Wine Country This Weeks preferred restaurants

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

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Small Family OwnedWinery in the Heart of

Napa Valley

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

Open Daily 10am to 5:45pm

Cabernet Sauvignon

Merlot

Pinot Noir

Sauvignon Blanc

Chardonnay

Dessert Wines

COME IN AND TASTE OUR WINES:

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

PrivateTours and Tastings available by appointment

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

No appointment necessary


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WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

NAPA vALLeY5 | ANdRetti WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a

29 | BeRiNgeR viNeYARds 2 fr 1 an n h Rhn H w/a5 | CALiFoRNiA WiNe touRs spcal prc n r an an

43 | dutCH HeNRY WiNeRY10% ff prcha wh a3 | goLdeN HAveN dcn n Cpl M Bah/spa gaway

39|

HAgAFeN CeLLARs 2 fr 1 an wh a37 | JessuP CeLLARs tan f wa wh prcha35 | Louis M. MARtiNi WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a43 | oLd FAitHFuL geYseR $1 ff wh a39 | ReAtA 2 fr 1 an wh a88 | RutHeRFoRd HiLL WiNeRY10% ff yr prcha wh a37 | soMeRstoN WiNe Co. Cmplmnary an, a fr al

7 | st. CLeMeNt WiNeRY2 fr 1 an10 | stAgeCoACH eXPRess Cmplmnary hppn bx13 | steRLiNg viNeYARds v hr wb fr $5 an42 | suMMeRs WiNes 15% cn wh a41 | WiLLiAM HiLL 2 fr 1 an wh a

soNoMA CouNtY62 | B Wise Mnn a fr an enhanc tan exprnc49 | BALLetto viNeYARds Cmplmnary an wh a

5 | CALiFoRNiA WiNe touRs spcal prc n r an an47 | CeLLARs oF soNoMA 2 fr 1 an wh a59 | CHAteAu st. JeAN 2 fr 1 an wh a78 | FeRRARi-CARANo 2 fr 1 Clac Wn an wh a49 | FRitZ WiNeRYMnn a fr $5 ff wn an79 | HoP KiLN WiNeRY2 fr 1 an wh a53 | KeNdALL-JACKsoN WiNeRY2 fr 1 Rr tan wh a63 | LedsoN WiNeRY & viNeYARds Mnn a fr pra an53 | Lost CANYoN WiNeRYCmplmnary an fr w wh a49 | MARtiN RAY WiNeRY15% cn wh a63 | MusCARdiNi CeLLARs Cmplmnary an fr w wh a50 | RodNeY stRoNg Cmplmnary an/20% cn wh a

53 | stAtioN 1870 Cmplmnary an fr w wh a62 | vJB viNeYARds & CeLLARs 2 cmplmnary an & 15% ff prcha57 | viANsA WiNeRY2 fr 1 an & 10% ff prcha wh a

sANtA CLARA, sANtA CRuZ & MoNteReY CouNties69 | HAHN WiNeRYCmplmnary an fr w wh a

*See individual ads for details.

DEALS & DISCOUNTS

Your Car, Our DriverProfessional Wine Tour Guides for your car or rental vehicle

Wine Tour Guides / Designated Drivers

Wine Tour Specialist can plan your day for FREE

or, you can choose the wineries and stops

Same day service is available

Lowest rates starting at only $30 an hour.

855-855-8950 call 24/7www.wedriveyourcarservice.comwww.facebook.com/wedriveyourcarDriver profiles are available from our website.

Visit our Facebook page for coupons and specials.


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www.WnCnrythWk.cm


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Experience the

true expression of

Cabernet Sauvignon

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


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Sulfites are the reason for mandatory label warnings on wine

bottles because a small percentage of the US population, less than onepercent, suffer an allergic reaction to sulfites, such as sneezing or

coughing. About ten percent of these sufferers have a more serious

reaction, such as shortness of breath.

However, people who get headaches from wine should not

automatically blame the sulfites. In the majority of cases the cause is

probably something else, such as histamines in the wine. Some

people take an antihistamine in advance of drinking wine in order to

prevent getting a reaction from the histamines in the wine. Needless

to say, the causes of allergic reactions of any kind are difficult to pin

down without a doctors assistance and if you suffer any ailment as a

result of drinking wine, you should consult with a doctor.

If you have a wine allergy you can try narrowing down the cause

by first sampling wines made from organically grown grapes, such as

Bonterra made by Fetzer, or Sanford from Santa Barbara County,

among many others. These wines are made from grapes that aregrown without the use of synthetic chemicals, like pesticides,

herbicides and fungicides. If no relief comes from drinking wine fr

organically grown grapes, the next step is to try a 100% organic wi

which contains a minimal amount of sulfites that occur naturally i

production, and has no sulfites added. These wines are commonly

found in natural food grocery stores.

To be sure, every wine, organic or not, contains some sulfites

because sulfites are produced naturally in the process of winemaki

If the total sulfite content is 10 parts per million or higher, howeve

the government requires a warning label. Winemakers add more

sulfites because they help to preserve the quality of the wine for lo

term shelf life. Therefore, wines that contain no added sulfites sho

be consumed while the wine is young.

Fllw n twr @WnCnry10

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

BY LEN NAPOLITANO

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

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

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

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

Is it sulfites in wine that give me headaches?

Larn mr ab wn!For past Wineology columns,

scan the QR code with yoursmart phone application or go to

www.WineCountry ThisWeek.comand search Wineology


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ODETTE ESTATE

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

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

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

ODETTE ESTATE WINERY

5998 SILVERADO TRAIL NAPA, CA 94558

100% Organic Grapes, Estate Grown Napa Valley WinesHill Wine Company Specializes in small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon,

Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc to ensure the highest quality wines.

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

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

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

Open Daily 10am-5pm

[email protected]

1001 Silverado Trail South, St Helena CA 94574

1


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BY JOSH STEIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

levels.

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

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

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

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

cropping, or mismatching vine to location. These options include

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

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

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

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

possible combinations in commercial use today.

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

sunlight while maintaining less vigorous growth in poor, infertile

soils, or different styles of dividing the canopy vertically or

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

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

Everything youve absorbed about growing things the right way i

the opposite for winegrowing. Soil that is too good encourages

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

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

flavors in the resulting wines. When winegrowers talk about

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

further with its permanency, with the shoots generally positioned

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

sunlight.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

doubling vine energy needs horizontally in contrast to Scott Henry

upright, split form.

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

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

expression: softening or hardening tannins; adding or removing

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

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

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

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

requires our constant attention even long before a single grape is

harvested or a bud breaks. Cheers!

Trellising: How Grapevines Got a Shape

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

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

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

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

Wine Support Services and SF-Integrated Vineyard Management.1426 Ma in Street, St. Helena, CA 94574 P: 707.244.4600

join us atourtasting

roomtasting

atjoin us

roomtastingour

tasting


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CALeNdAR oF eveNts | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

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ONGOINGNapa Valley Wine TrainNapa, www.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124 Mar 9, 23, 30: Sip & Supper Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 16: Big Gay Wine Train Mar 30: Moonlight Escape Apr 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27: Sip & Supper Apr 12: Murder Mystery Dinner Apr 26: Moonlight Escapel

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

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

ONGOINGV. Sattui Winery

St. Helena, 9am-5pm winter, no appt. necessarywww.vsattui.com, 707-963-7774 Premium tasting, daily, $10 Italian Marketplace with 200+ cheeses Deli with panini, sandwiches, crabcakes & more Weekend BBQ, wood-fired pizza, oysters, mozzarella bar 2 acres of tree-shaded picnic grounds

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

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

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

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti WineryNapa, www.andrettiwinery.com, 877-386-5070x227 Individual Tastings, $15

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONGOING

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

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

ONGOINGJoseph Phelps Vineyards: Tastings & Seminars

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

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

ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi WineryFor details, www.robertmondavi.com, 888-RMONDAVI x2 The Sign ature Tour & Tasting T he Wine Tasting Basics

The Exclusive Cellar Tast ing T asting Beyond th e Basics The Harvest of Joy Tour & Lunch

ONGOINGVIP Tasting & Artisan Barrel Factory TourBourassa Vineyards, Napa, Mon-Fri by appointment, $15 mid-week speciaMention this listing, www.bourassavineyards.com, 800-499-2366

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado VineyardsNapa, www.silveradovineyards.com, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770 x611 Saddleblock Vineyard Tasting, by appt, $75 Library Tasting, by appt, $75 Daily Tasting Room Flights, Estate/$15, Premier/$25

Public Tours & Tasting, 10:30am & 2:30pm, by appt, $25 Private Tour and or Tasting, 15-25 guests, by appt, $20/tour, $25/tour &tasting

ONGOINGNapa Valley MuseumYountville, www.NapaValleyMuseum.org, 707-944-0500 Apr 13: Learning through Art & Family Fun Day, Paper Lanterns

ONGOINGNapa Valley Opera House

1030 Main Street, Napa, www.nvoh.org, 707-226-7372

Mar 7: Ed Asner as F.D.R. Mar 9: Ana Moura Mar 10: Caf Cabaret, Madeline Eastman & Randy Porter Mar 13: La Traviata, Livermore Valley Opera Mar 14: Rhythm of the Dance Mar 15: Altan Mar 16: Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra featuring Wynton Marsalis Mar 23: Paul Reiser Mar 24: International Film Series, Chronicle of My Mother Mar 26: Tuesday Night Flicks, A Place in the Sun Mar 29: Luciana Souza & Romero Lubambo Mar 30: Steve Tyrell with Diane Schuur Apr 6: Jesse Cook Apr 11: Documentary, Our City Dreams Apr 13: Kathy Mattea

ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back Room Wines

Mar 28: Rhone Wine Fan Club of Napa ValleyONGOING

di RosaNapa, www.dirosapreserve.org, 707-226-5991

ONGOINGLive at Uptown TheatreNapa, www.uptowntheatrenapa.com, 707-259-0123 Mar 16: Pablo Cruise & The Edge Mar 21: Leo Kottke Mar 22: Boz Scaggs Mar 29: The Dan Band Mar 30: Crystal Bowersox Apr 12: Del The Funky Homosapien

ONGOINGNapa Valley Performing Arts Centerat Lincoln TheaterYountville, www.lincolntheater.org, 707-944-9900

Mar 8-10: Footloose, Justin-Sienas Production Mar 23: Grand Opening Celebration

NAPA VALLEY

UPCOMING Daily: Valley First Tour Daily: Grgich Hills Estate Winery Tour Fri-Sun: Domaine Chandon Winery Tour Sat: Valleys only Evening Winery Tour Mon-Thu: Ambassador Winery Tour Mar 9, 23, 30: Sip & Supper

Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 16: Big Gay Wine Train

Mar 30: Moonlight Escape


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ONGOING TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Oxbow Market Tour & Cooking Class

Cooking With Julie, Napa, 8:45am-4:30pmwww.cookingwithjulie.com, 707-227-5036

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS

Winemaker Wednesdays at 1313 Main

Napa, 6-8pm, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

ONGOING FRIDAYS

Friday Night Pulse Tastings

ACME Fine Wines, St.Helena, 5-7pmwww.acmefinewines.com, 888-963-0440

ONGOING FRIDAYS

Bubbles Bar at 1313 Main

Napa, 9pm-12am, www.1313main.com, 707-258-1313

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Barrel Tasting & Tours at Reata

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

ONGOING FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Food & Wine Pairings at Etude Winery

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

ONGOING THROUGH MARCH 31

March is St. Clair Monthat Acacia VineyardNapa, www.acaciavineyard.com, 877-226-1700x2

ONGOING THROUGH APRIL 30Vernal Equinox, Paintings

by Sandra Juniper Booth & Kim FrancesThe Grand Hand Gallery, Downtown Napawww.thegrandhand.com, 707-253-2551

ONGOING THROUGH APRILBlend Your Own Merlot at Rutherford HillRutherford, 11am-1pm, $95, $75/members, RSVPwww.rutherfordhill.com, 707-963-1871x2218

MARCH 8Night of Magic at Judds HillNapa, 6-9pm, $50, www.juddshill.com, 707-255-2332

MARCH 9Founders Dinner at Judds HillNapa, 6-9:30pm, $118, www.juddshill.com, 707-255-2332

MARCH 9Calistoga Music Festival: Mustard, Mud & Music

Downtown Calistoga, 12-5pm, $35/adv, $40www.calistogavisitors.com, 707-942-6333

MARCH 9

Merryvale March Barrel

Tasting & Release Party: Pinot & Pizza

St. Helena, 1-4pm, $25, free/members877-887-7763, www.merryvale.com

MARCH 9

Peju Kitchen Series:

Picnic Lunch Entertaining

Rutherford, 10:30am-1:30pm, $155www.peju.com, 707-963-3600

MARCH 9, 22

Pinot Noir Blending Session

at Domaine Carneros

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

MARCH 13

Paddys Party With a Twist

Napa Style, Yountville, 5-6pm, $25, RSVPwww.NapaStyle.com/culinary

MARCH 14-16

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Various events & locations in Yountvillewww.yountville.com, 707-944-0904

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MARCH 16Clone Release Celebration at BeaulieuRutherford, 1-3pm, Club Member Exclusive Event800-264-6918x5323, www.bvwines.com.com

MARCH 16The Big Gay TrainNapa Valley Wine Train, Napa, 5:30pmwww.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124

MARCH 16Cooking Class: Early Spring Feast

Join Chef Mike CCedar Gables Inn, Napa, 4-8pm, $169www.cedargablesinn.com, 707-224-7969

MARCH 16Twilight in the VineyardsSilverado Resort, Napa, 5:30-11pmwww.northwoodnapa.com, 707-253-3471

MARCH 16Celebrity Chef Joey AltmanCooking Demonstration at Acacia VineyardNapa, 11am-3pm, www.acaciavineyard.com, 877-226-1700x2

MARCH 16, 30LItalia in Vigneto Dinnerat Andretti WineryNapa, 7pm, $95, RSVP, 888-460-8463x229www.andrettiwinery.com, [email protected]

MARCH 17St. Patricks Day Celebrationat Sequoia GroveJoin them for corned beef sliders!Napa, www.sequoiagrove.com, 800-851-7841

MARCH 17Olive Oil Open HouseRound Pond Estate, Rutherfordwww.roundpond.com, 11am-3pm

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

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

MARCH 22Peju Kitchen Series: Intimate EntertainingRutherford, 10:30am-1:30pm, $235www.peju.com, 707-963-3600

MARCH 23Grgich Hills Zinfandel CelebrationRutherford, 11am-4pm, www.grgich.com, 707-963-2784

MARCH 23Oroppas 2009 Release Partyat Sterling VineyardsSt. Helena, 4-7pm, free/members, $30, RSVPwww.stclement.com, 707-963-7221

MARCH 23Beringer Vineyards Cellar SaleSt. Helena, 9am-2pm, www.beringer.com, 707-963-8989x2069

MARCH 23Grgich Hills Zinfandel Celebration

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

MARCH 23Reception: Vernal Equinox, Paintingsby Sandra Juniper Booth & Kim FrancesEnjoy wine from Hess Collection, 6-8pmThe Grand Hand Gallery, Downtown Napawww.thegrandhand.com, 707-253-2551

MARCH 23Cellar Sale at BeringerSt. Helena, 9am-2pm, 707-963-8989x2069www.beringer.com

APRIL 3Culinary Secrets of VeniceNapa Style, Yountville, 5-6pm, $25, RSVPwww.NapaStyle.com/culinary

APRIL 4-7Live in the Vineyard Music Festival

Various locations in Napa Valley!www.liveinthevineyard.com

APRIL 6

Barrel Tasting & Artisan Pizzaat Acacia Vineyard

Napa, 11am-3pm, www.acaciavineyard.com, 877-226-1700x2

APRIL 6

Historic Wineries Tour

Napa Valley, www.napahistorycenter.org, 707-255-1836

APRIL 8-13

Arts in April at Peju Province WineryRutherford, 10am-6pm, www.peju.com, 707-963-3600

APRIL 13

Peju Reserve Release & Vertical TastingRutherford, 11am-1pm, RSVPwww.peju.com, 707-963-3600

APRIL 13

Miljenko Mike Grgichs

90th Birthday Celebration at Grgich HillsRutherford, 6-10pm, www.grgich.com, 707-963-2784

APRIL 13Spanish Dinner at Artesa

Napa, www.artesawinery.com, 877-224-8309

APRIL 13, 20

LItalia in Vigneto Dinner

at Andretti WineryNapa, 7pm, $95, RSVP 888-460-8463x229www.andrettiwinery.com, [email protected]

APRIL 13

Peju Reserve Release & Vertical TastingRutherford, 11am-1pm, $85, $75/memberswww.peju.com, 707-963-3600

APRIL 13-14Peju Spring Fare with Spring Flair!

Rutherford, Sat: 2-5pm, Sun: 10am-2pmwww.peju.com, 707-963-3600, $35/day, $25/day members

APRIL 20

Budbreak Celebration in the Vineyardat Beaulieu

Rutherford, 11am-2pm, Club Member Exclusive Event

800-264-6918x5323, www.bvwines.comAPRIL 20

Cooking Class: Cooking Downton AbbeyJoin Chef Allen Calhoun & Hill Family WineryCedar Gables Inn, Napa, 4-8pm, $169www.cedargablesinn.com, 707-224-7969

APRIL 20-21

April in CarnerosHospitality de los CarnerosVisit participating Carneros wineries! 10am-4pmwww.carneroswineries.org, $39/adv, $45

APRIL 21

Make Your Own Mustardat Acacia Vineyard

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

ONGOING

Tastings at Fritz Underground Winery

A Taste of Fritz: $10, Indulge in Fritz Reserve Wines: $15Cloverdale, www.fritzwinery.com, 707-894-3389

ONGOING

Live Music at Centre du VinLedson Hotel, Sonoma, 707-996-9779, www.ledsonhotel.com

ONGOING

Private Tastings at Viansa

www.viansa.com, 800-995-7470 Italian Wine & Cheese Pairing

10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointment, $10/members, $25 Reserve Wine & Food Pairing

10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointment, free/members, $45

ONGOINGReserve Wine & Food PairingPrivate Tasting at ViansaSonoma, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 3pm by appointmentwww.viansa.com, 800-995-7470, free/members, $45

ONGOINGPrivate Wine Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Pick of the Bunch five wines, 6-8 people, $20-$40ppby appointment, www.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

Scentiments Test your Smell Memory White Wine Lovers wines paired with Artisan cheeses King of Reds wines paired with dried fruits and chocolates Matchmaker wine and food pairing PreVail Tasting wines paired with Artisan Charcuterie plate Cabernet Terroir Tasting comparison wines from different elevations

ONGOINGWine and Food Pairingat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Matchmaker, learn the art and science of matchingwines with the perfect food. 6-8 people, $35pp, by appointmentwww.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGFree Guided Winery Tourat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Monday-Saturday, 10am, by appointmentwww.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOING

Group Private Tastingsat Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and WineryHealdsburg Includes 5 wines, 9-25 people in underground cellar, byappointment. $20 per person, www.ferrari-carano.com, 707-433-6700

ONGOINGTerroir & History Tourat Chateau St. JeanKenwood A visit to Chateau St. Jean lifts all of your senses.Complimentary, 11am-2pm, www.chateaustjean.com, 707-833-4134

ONGOINGFood and Wine Pairingat the Mayo Reserve Room9200 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, Daily, 10:30am-6pm, 7 course food/wine tas$35, Reservations recommended, www.mayofamilywinery.com, 707-833-

ONGOINGWine Experiencesat Chateau St. Jean

Kenwood Ten person minimum, 2 hours, $50, by appointmentwww.chateaustjean.com, 707-833-4134x5258 Cinq Cpages Blending Seminar, Eight person minimum, 2 hours, $75 Cinq Cpages Component Tasting, Eight person minimum, 1.5 hours, $2 Private VIP Wine Tasting, 10:30am, 1 & 3pm, $25, 1 hour Box Lunch Prgram with Tour

ONGOINGTours, Tastings & Seminarsat St. Francis WinerySanta Rosa Ten person minimum, Call for more information & reservati888-675-WINE(9463)x255, www.stfranciswinery.com Charcuterie, daily 11am-4pm, $25/$20 club members Wine & Food Pairing, $35/$28 club members

ONGOINGGuided Winery Tours at Gloria FerrerSonoma, 11am, 1 & 3pm, $10, www.gloriaferrer.com, 707-996-7256

ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-Jackson

Fulton Special reserve food & wine tasting, 10am-4pm, $25www.kj.com, 707-571-7500

ONGOINGMoondance Cellars &Orchard Station WinesGlen Ellen Paired with Wine Country Chocolates Truffle Tastes, $10www.moondancecellars.com, 707-938-7550

ONGOING FRIDAY-SATURDAYLive Music at Eric K. James VineyardsSonoma, 8-11pm, www.erickjames.com, 707-996-1364

ONGOINGHappy Hour at ProofdMonday-Wednesday, 3-6pm, off full poursSunday, 1-4pm, off full pours, $1 off flightsSonoma, 707-938-2337, www.proofdspirits.com

SONOMA COUNTY


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ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshopat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/memberswww.brcohn.com, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tasting at B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/memberswww.brcohn.com, 707-931-7924x123

ONGOING

Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar IntroducesThematic Wine ProgramHonoring great local wine makers. Plus, each Thursday, 6:30-8pmcelebrity wine-tenders. The Lodge at Sonoma, RSVPwww.thelodgeatsonoma.com 707-931-2042

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYLive Music at Cellars of SonomaSanta Rosa, 7:30-10:30pm, www.cellarsofsonoma.com, 707-578-1826

ONGOING SUNDAYSSunday Brunch at the Centre du VinLedson Hotel, Sonoma, 9am-1pm, www.ledsonhotel.com, 707-996-9779

ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz WineryCloverdale, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 tasting fee covers the pairingwww.fritzwinery.com, 707-894-3389

ONGOING FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Taste with the Count at Buena Vista

A 45-minute tour and wine tasting, 11am & 12:30pm, $20A 90-minute Taste with the Count with Reserve Buena Vista winesin the Counts Lair by the Count. 2pm, $45, RSVP, 800-926-1266

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

50 Mile AV Vintner's Dining

Glen Ellen Barrel tasting & Old Vine Pinot Noir & Syrahs from Ashton VineyardFoods sourced locally. 4-7pm, ashtonwines.com, RSVP, 707-935-3456

ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at Anaba

Sonoma Enjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with yourwine tasting. 4-5:30pm, www.anabawines.com, 707-996-4188

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Jazz it up Wine & Concert Series

Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the Vineyard, Healdsburg, 4-6pmwww.seasonofthevineyard.com, 707-431-2222

ONGOING WEEKENDS

Alfresco Tasting at Muscardini Cellars

Kenwood, 12-5pm, 707-933-9305, www.muscardinicellars.com

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAY

Michel-Schlumberger Winery Green Tour

Healdsburg, 10:30am, $25, www.michelschlumberger.com, 800-447-3060

ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours

& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape Gondola

Geyserville, 11:30am, $10, box lunch provided for $20www.ryew.com, 707-431-4811

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Come Crush With Us at Icaria Creek Winery

Winemaker Jeff Smith leads a tasting of bottled & barreled wineswww.icariawinery.com, RSVP, 707-486-9623

EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY

Santa Rosa Original Farmers Market

Santa Rosa Veterans Building parking lot8:30am-noon, 707-522-8629

EVERY FRIDAY MORNING

Sonoma Valley Farmers Market

Depot Park, Sonoma, 9am-noon, 707-538-7023

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY

The Art of Winemaking Workshop

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

ONGOING SATURDAYS

Syrah Hill Experience at Cline Cellars

Sonoma, 11am-1pm, 2-4pm, $40, $30/memberswww.clinecellars.com, 707-940-4061

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APRIL 27Grower Pouring at Muscardini CellarsSandy Zanotto of Alices VineyardsKenwood, 2-4pm, 707-933-9305, www.muscardinicellars.com

APRIL 27-2824th Annual Passport to Dry Creek ValleyA Modern Tradition with Century-Old RootsVisit more than 50 wineries in Dry Creek Valley & Healdsburgwww.wdcv.com, 11am-4:30pm, $120/2 day, $70/Sunday only Dutcher Crossing

Healdsburg, 11am-4pm, 707-431-2700, www.dutchercrossingwinery.com Wilson Winery

Healdsburg, 11am-4pm, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com

ONGOINGSkunk TrainFort Bragg, www.skunktrain.com, 866-457-5865

ONGOING FRIDAYSTuscan Village Music Art SeriesTerrill Cellars, Lower Lake, 6-9pm, www.terrillcellars.com, 707-994-3354

EVERY SECOND SATURDAYFood & Wine PairingsMcNab Ridge Tasting Room, Hopland, www.mcnabridge.com, 707-744-1986

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

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

3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTHWindows to the UniverseTaylor Observatory, Kelseyville, 8-11pmwww.taylorobservatory.org, 707-262-4121

MARCH 9-10, 16-17Whale FestivalsLittle River, various locations/events, March 9-10Fort Bragg, various locations/events, March 16-17http://www.mendowhale.com

MARCH 16

29th Annual Whale Run & WalkSkunk Train Parking Lot, Fort Braggwww.soroptomistfortbragg.com, 707-962-0211

MARCH 17St. Patricks Day CelebrationMcFadden Farm Stand & Tasting Room, Hoplandwww.McFaddenVineyard.com, 707-744-8463, 10am-5pm

MARCH 22Wine Tasting Basics: Play With Your SensesSaracina Vineyards, Hopland, 4-6pmwww.saracina.com, 707-744-1671

SAN FRANCISCO

ONGOINGThe Walt Disney Family Museum

The Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco415-345-6816 www.waltdisney.org Ongoing through Apr 28: Between Frames,

The Magic Behind Stop Motion Animation Ongoing through Apr 14: Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs,

The Creation of a Classic May 23-July 7: Maurice Sendak: 50 Years, 50 Works, 50 Reasons

ONGOINGRifugio Food & Wine Pairingwith Clif Family WinesThe Barn Group, San Francisco, www.thebarngroup.com

MARCH 12

Raymond Napa Valley Wine DinnerJoin Jean-Charles Boisset, ProprietorTaj Campton Place, San Franciscowww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

MARCH 1611th Annual Pinot Noir SummitHerbst at The Presidio, San Francisco, $75-$125www.affairsofthevine.com, 707-874-1975

MARCH 20Howell Mountain Spring Wine TastingThe Bently Reserve, San Francisco, 4:30-6:30pmwww.howellmountain.org, 707-965-2665

MARCH 26Nemerever Oakville Wine Dinner

Tasting & Dinner with Proprietor William NemereverTaj Campton Place, San Franciscowww.camptonplacesf.com, 415-955-5574

APRIL 10Mount Veeder AppellationSpring Wine TastingThe Presidio Golden Gate Club, San Franciscowww.mtveederwines.com, 707-266-1296, 4:30-6:30pm

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

MARIN COUNTY

ONGOING THROUGH APRIL 2Artisan Cheese, Please!Honoring Californias Artisan Cheese Festival

Nicks Cove, Marshall, 415-663-1033, www.nickscove.com Mar 3-9: Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company Mar 10-16: DeBernardi Dairy Mar 17-23: Nicasio Valley Cheese Company Mar 24-Apr 2: Bellwether Farms

ONGOINGMarin Center in San Rafaelwww.co.marin.ca.us, 415-499-6800 Mar 9-10: Masque Unit, Puss in Boots Mar 10-12: Marin Symphony, Of Heroes and Angels Mar 14-17: Performing Arts Academy of Marin, Peter Pan Mar 21: Farm Day Mar 21: In the Mood Mar 22-24: Marin Primary & Middle School, The Odyssey Mar 23: Stapleton Ballet 25th Anniversary Swan Lake Mar 24: Marin Girls Chorus, Sing, Dance, Play Mar 30: Tina Malia Apr 1-4: Marin Speaker Series, Dr. Sanjay Gupta Apr 6: Marin Horse Councils Day of the Horse Ride to the Rescue

ONGOINGLive Shows at Hopmonk TavernNovato, 415-892-6200, www.hopmonk.com Mar 8: Linda Imperial Mar 9: Steve Pile Mar 29: Michelle Shocked with Pete Anderson Mar 31: Steve Kimock

SAN MATEO COUNTY

APRIL 27-2823rd Annual Pacic Coast Dream Machines ShowHalf Moon Bay Airport, Half Moon Bay, 10am-4pmwww.miramarevents.com 650-726-2328

ALAMEDA COUNTY

MARCH 9Food Truck Fanatics! Saurno BurgerRosenblum Cellars, Alameda, 12-4:30pm

www.rosenblumcellars.com, 510-995-4100CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

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

LIVERMORE

ONGOINGNiles Canyon RailwaySunol Depot, Sunol, www.ncry.org, 510-910-7024 Mar 10: Winterail Photo Special Apr 6-7: Spring Steam Excursions

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

ONGOINGBankhead TheatreLivermore Valley Performing Arts Center, Livermorewww.livermoreperformingarts.org, 925-373-6800 Mar 9-10, 16-17: La Traviata Mar 12: Julian Lage Group Mar 13: Red Clay Ramblers Mar 23: Archetti Baroque Ensemble Apr 5: Jesse Cook Apr 6: Guest Conductor Potpourri Apr 10, 12-13: Menopause the Musical Apr 11: Kathy Mattea Apr 14: The Beatles Concert Experience

ONGOINGLive Music at The Winemakers Pour HouseLivermore, 925-215-2656, www.winemakerspourhouse.com Mar 7: Steve Fread, (Rock, Pop) Mar 8: Natalia Susoeff (Jazz, Pop, Blues) Mar 9: Machine Gun Banana Mar 10: David Correa & Cascada (Spanish Guitar) Mar 14: Meredith McHenry (Rock, Jazz, Pop) Mar 15: Joey T (Latin, Jazz, Soul, R&B) Mar 16: Chris LeBel (Pop, Rock, R&B) Mar 17: Pog Mo Thoin, Gabe Duffin (Celtic & Irish Folk Music) Mar 21: BoSco Duo (Folk, Rock & Roll) Mar 22: Bay Are Artist James Nagel (Rock, Pop & Originals) Mar 24: Jon Williams, (Pop & Originals) Mar 28: Stripped Down Northern Static (Alt-rock, Retro/Classic) Mar 29: Meredith & the Mercenaries (Rock, Jazz, R&B)

Mar 30: Joey T (Latin Jazz, Jazz, Soul, R&B)

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

MARCH 9Savory Dough 101 Demo ClassThe Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, Livermore, 10:30-1:30amwww.wentevineyards.com, 925-456-2444, RSVP, free

MARCH 9Brushstrokes & Wine Notes on the PatioMcGrail Vineyards, Livermore, 11am-1pm, $50www.mcgrailvineyards.com, 925-215-0717, RSVP

MARCH 15St. Patricks Day Brew CrawlMain St., Downtown Pleasanton, 6-9pmwww.pleasantondowntown.net, 925-484-2199

MARCH 16-17Chocolate & Cabernet WeekendFenestra Winery, Livermore, 12-5pmwww.fenestrawinery.com, 925-447-5246

MARCH 17Green Wine St. Patricks CelebrationWestover Vineyards, Castro Valleywww.estoverwinery.com, 510-537-3932

MARCH 17Founders DayConcannon Vineyard, Livermorewww.concannonvineyard.com, 800-258-9866

MARCH 17St. Paddys Day Costume Contest & FunRetzlaff Vineyards, Livermore, 12-4:30pm, $5www.retzlaffwinery.com, 925-447-8941

MARCH 23-24Barrel Tasting WeekendParticipating Livermore Valley winerieswww.lvwine.org, 925-447-9463, 12-4:30pm

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

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

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

LAKE/MENDOCINO

BAY AREA


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

www.retzlaffwinery.com, 925-447-8941

ONGOINGSunset Cultural Center-CarmelCarmel, www.sunsetcenter.com, 831-620-2048 Mar 8-9: Smuin Ballet Winter Program Mar 10: Opera San Jose Mar 15: Rhythm of the Dance Mar 22: 1964The Tribute Mar 23-24: Monterey Symphony, Revolution Mar 23: Chamber Music Monterey Bay, Ying Quartet Mar 29: Steve Tyrell with Special Guest Diane Shuur Apr 3: Jeff Bridges & The Abiders Apr 5-6: Menopause The Musical Apr 14: Carmel Music Society, Takcs String Quartet Apr 17: Arlo Guthrie, Here Comes the Kid Apr 19: Storm Large

ONGOING THROUGH MAYWinemaker WednesdayShadowbrook Restaurant, Capitola, 5-8pm, www.scmwa.com

ONGOING THURSDAYSExploring WineLearn more about wine & wine appreciation, taste local wines too!

Carmel Ridge Winery, Cannery Row, Monterey, 4-6pm, $40www.carmelridge.com, 831-324-0035

ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYSMonterey Museum of ArtMonterey, Evening of music, wine and hors d'oeuvres, 5-7pm, 831-372-5477

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

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

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

MARCH 8-9Family Fun OvernightSanta Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruzwww.beachboardwalk.com, 831-423-5590

MARCH 8, 15, 22Music in the CellarBargetto Winery, Soquel, 6-8pmwww.bargetto.com, 831-475-2258

MARCH 9Artistic Chocolatier ClassBernardus Lodge, Carmel Valley, 11am-2pmwww.bernardus.com, 888-648-9463, $125

MARCH 16Artisan Series at Montrio BistroMonterey, 12-2pm, $55, 831-648-8880

MARCH 21

Winemaker Series:Mi Sueo Winery, Napa ValleyPacifics Edge, Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Carmelwww.hyattcarmelhighlands.com, 831-620-1234

APRIL 4-72013 Pebble Beach Food & WineVarious venues throughout Pebble Beachwww.pebblebeachfoodandwine.com, 866-907-3663

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

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

APRIL 13-1456th Annual Good Old DaysCelebration & Music FestivalDowntown Pacific Grove, 10am-5:30pmwww.pacificgrove.org, 831-373-3304

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

SANTA CLARA COUNTY

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

MARCH 7J. Lohr Wine & Appetizer Pairing SeminarSan Jose, 6:30-8:30pm, $30, RSVPwww.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

MARCH 8, 15, 22, 29J. Lohr Wine & Cheese FridaysSan Jose, 5:30-7:30pm, $15, RSVPwww.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

MARCH 16J. Lohr Persian New Year DinnerSan Jose, 7-9pm, $95www.jlohr.com, 408-918-2176

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

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

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS

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

MARCH 9

3rd Annual Crab FeedClos LaChance, San Martin, 12pm, RSVPwww.clos.com, 408-686-1050, $55, $50/members

MARCH 16Intro to Food & Wine PairingRegale Winery, Los Gatos, $45www.regalewine.com, 408-353-2500

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

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

MARCH 30-31Wine Tasting Weekend

Villa del Monte, Winery, Los Gatoswww.villadelmontewinery.com, 888-788-4583

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

ONGOINGSierra Railroadwww.sierrarailroad.com, Oakdale, 800-866-1690 Mar 9: Murder Mystery Dinner Mar 23: Saturday Night Dinner Apr 3: Scenic Lunch

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

ONGOINGSacramento River Trainwww.sacramentorivertrain.com, 800-866-1690 Mar 9: Scenic Lunch Mar 16: Murder Mystery Mar 23, 26, 30-31: Easter Egg Express Apr 6: Great Train Robbery Dinner

ONGOINGMondavi Center for the Performing ArtsU.C. Davis, www.mondaviarts.org, 866-754-ARTS

Mar 7: Sarah Chang, violin Mar 12: The Improvised Shakespeare Company Mar 15-22: Cashore Marionettes Mar 15, 17: St. Louis Symphony Mar 19: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Mar 23-24: Lara Downes & Build Mar 25: The 400 Blows and Antoine and Colette Apr 5: Bobby McFerrin Apr 6-7: Paul Dresher Ensemble Apr 11-13: Shantal Shivalingappa Apr 12: The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Apr 14: Alexander String Quartet 10th Anniversary Performance

with Robert Greenberg Apr 15: Il Trittico Apr 18: San Francisco Symphony

SUISUN VALLEY

THURSDAY NIGHTSDate Night at MankasTapas Bar & SteakhouseFairfield, $49/couple for a 3 course dinnerwww.mankassteakhouse.com, 707-425-3207

SUNDAY NIGHTSGrand Master Tastingat Mankas Tapas Bar & SteakhouseFairfield, $29/ dinner & tastingwww.mankassteakhouse.com, 707-425-3207

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

ONGOINGCommunity Service Sundays

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

MARCH 22Pick Up Party at Vezer Family VineyardSuisun Valley, 888-823-8463www.vezerfamilyvineyard.com

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

SANTA CLARA, SANTA CRUZ& MONTEREY COUNTIES

CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

SOLANO COUNTY

Check the website for many more event

www.winecountrythisweek.com

email Your evns o

[email protected]

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

weeks prior to the date of your event. Event listing

are free, and published as space is available and a

the discretion of Wine Country This Week.


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WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK | WiNe CouNtRY NeW

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

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

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

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

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

VINTNERS INNForty-four spacious rooms and suites with balconies or patios;

surrounded by vineyards. 1-800-421-24350 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa www.vintnersinn.c

CALDERWOOD INNAn historic Victorian Inn in the heart of Healdsburg

25 W. Grant Street, Healdsburg [email protected] 707-431-11

HILTON GARDEN INN2200 Gateway Court (707) 426-69Fairfield www.hiltongardeninn.c

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES316 Pittman Road (707) 864-37Fairfield www.hiexpress.c

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

SONOMA COUNTY NORTHERN

MONTEREY BAY/CENTRAL COAST

FAIRFIELD/SUISUN VALLEY

SONOMA COUNTY COAST

SONOMA COUNTY SOUTHERN

NAPA VALLEY

CANDLELIGHT INN

Private baths; TV/phone and AC;

two-person marble jacuzzis

and fireplaces; balconies or decks;

three-course gourmet breakfast,

hors doeuvres, wine and sherry

in the evening;

luxurious 30'x60'; swimming pool

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

LODGINGLook for more lodging options o


For two days wine lovers will gather for the 16th Annual Rhone

Rangers San Francisco Celebration of American Rhone Wines at Fort

Masons Festival Pavilion, during the largest American Rhone wine

event in the country. Taste more than 500 of the best American

Rhone wines from more than 100 Rhone Rangers member wineries.

Tickets are now on sale at www.rhonerangers.org.

The 16th annual San Francisco events will include two days of

celebration:

Friday, March 22, 6 PM, Winemaker Dinner

Fifteen wineries will join together for a winemaker dinner and live

auction at the historic Generals Residence at Fort Mason. During the

dinner, the Rhone Rangers will award their first Lifetime Achievement

Award. The dinner will be catered by Sonomas the Girl & the Fig

Restaurant (famous for its Rhone Alone wine list).

Saturday, March 24, 10 AM 12:45 PM Seminar Series

This years seminar series will cover two exciting topics: Old World

Inspiration, New World Innovation and Mourvdre: A Rising Star inthe World of American Rhones featuring six wines (red and ros) that

are based on the grape known as Mourvdre, Mataro, Monastrell and at

least fifty other names depending on where it is grown.

One ticket, the Saturday Events Pass, will admit guests to both semina

as well as the Trade & VIP Tasting beginning at 1 p.m.

Saturday, March 23, 1-3 PM

Trade & VIP Tasting. Over 100 wineries will pour more than 500 win

for members of the wine trade and media. Credentialed members of th

wine trade and wine media can register at: www.rhonerangers.org.

Saturday, March 23, 3-6 PM

Grand Tasting General Admission. The wine tasting continues with

consumers invited to enter from 3 to 6 p.m.to sample wines from over

100 wineries pouring more than 500 wines. Specialty food vendors wi

also sample gourmet food items and food trucks will provide more

substantive food items for purchase.

Tickets are now on sale and the public is invited to purchase th

online at www.rhonerangers.org. For more information, call 1-80

467-0163.

Ticket prices are $275 for Weekend Pass (includes the winemak

dinner, seminars and VIP entry to the grand tasting); $150 forSaturday Pass (includes the seminars and VIP entry to the grand

tasting); $150 for Winemaker Dinner; $50 for Grand Tasting in

advance and $5 at the door.

16th Annual Rhone Rangers Weekend Celebratio


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WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

22 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

B WISE VINEYARDSGreat wines, not to be missed!BY MICHELLE J. BAKER

For as much as the winerys name seems like a play on words, the stoof B Wise Vineyards is really about a modest guy with a rather brazen go

- to make world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends fr

his estate vineyard located on Moon Mountain, high above Sonoma Valle

The modest guy, Brion Wise, has been making wines from his mount

estate since 2002, working quietly and without compromise while

perfecting his vineyards, and his craft. Wise is the consummate hands-o

vintner, drawing on the wisdom and experience of an all-star team of

winemaking consultants, including Mark Herold (of Merus fame) and

Massimo Monticelli (of Silver Oak).

When it comes around to talking about world-class Cabernet

Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley has never received the same respect as, say,

Napa Valley or the Bordeaux region in France. But Brion Wise is quietlyand quite convincingly, leading a movement to put Sonoma Valley on th

map of great Cabernet Sauvignon regions.

The steep slopes of the 100-acre B Wise estate are planted to Caberne

Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Syrah. Neighboring world-class

vineyards such as Monte Rosso, the B Wise property sits above 1,000 fee

elevation and benefits from rocky, red volcanic soils, hot days and cool

nights. This is tough land to farm, requiring year-round care by hand to

prune, sucker, manage canopies and harvest, in pass after pass through

vineyard and throughout the season.

It was pretty hard to get ones hands on the extremely small product

Open daily from 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.9077 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood CA 95452

Easy parking along the side and rear of the building or on the side street (Shaw Avenue)

(707) 282-9169 | www.bwisevineyards.com


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATU

2

B Wise wines until last July,

when Brion and his wife Ronda

moved their hospitality

operation from their wine cave

on the estate, down the

mountain and into the center of

Kenwood. This newlyremodeled, beautifully-

appointed tasting lounge is at

once light and bright, warm and

cozy yet modern. Visitors can

get comfortable in the sitting

area, or sidle up to the bar to

visit with the staff.

Trios, a proprietary red blend

from the estate comprised of

71% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a

real steal at $30. Also at

incredible quality for the price isthe very delicious Wisdom a

unique blend of Cab, Zin,

Merlot and Syrah.

The Brion wines represent the

best of the best at B Wise, and

for $15 you can taste the

flagship wine Brion Sonoma

Estate Cabernet alongside the

Monte Rosso Cabernet (from

their neighbors renowned

vineyard site) and the Brion

Napa Valley Cabernet (sourced

from the owners friends at

Caldwell Vineyard in

Coombsville). For as great at

these wines are, not to be missed

is the 2009 Estate Syrah, an

exuberant, muscular and

unrestrained wine that is

profoundly well-made.

Tasting fees start at only $10

for a sampling of six estate

wines; B Wise Vineyards makesover a dozen different red wines

as well as a ros. Prices range

from $20 to $95 per bottle. Fans

who want access to all of the

wines (including small lot wines

such as a 25-case production

Cabernet Franc) should consider

joining one of their two wine

clubs, the Brion Society or Wise

Guys.


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WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK | WiNeRY FeAtuR

&

(877) 586-9361

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

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

2

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

Dinner with the Winemaker Monthly SeriesSaturday Night Piano Bar

Family Gatherings, Banquets & Receptions Welcome

DINNER SERVED Wednesday - Sundays

THE INN AT THE TIDES800 Hwy. One, Bodega Bay

www.InnattheTides.com (707) 875-2751

2012 Winery of the YearWinemaker Challenge N Monterey Wine Competition

San Francisco Bay Guardian

wines sold exclusively at the winery

V. Sattui WineryUHWH]HSSL`

Everything You Want When You

Visit Legendary Napa Valley

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yreniwehttaylevisu



ON THE COVER | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

ROMBAUER VINEYARDSNine Golds and Double-Golds

in the Last Three Months!BY JOSH STEIN

Rombauer Vineyards is one of those wineries everyone knows, if i

says Rombauer on a bottle, you can be guaranteed high quality, soulful

wines to go with food, bringing enjoyment to all who partake. The

Rombauer philosophy is the Joy of Wine crafting releases meant to

with meals, echoing great-Aunt Irma Rombauers belief that the joy of l

the pursuit of what is best to taste and enjoy. Now at year thirty-three a

known for decades as a Napa Valley must visit, its clear to see and

taste that theyve found a winning formula. How? By keeping theemphasis on what matters: drinkable wines and an enjoyable experien

the food and the people matter most, not the attitude! The proof is the

gold medals won in the last three months at five different wine events,

including the San Francisco Chronicle, American Fine Wine and Hilto

Head competitons.

The winery itself is on the North-East Silverado Trail, giving a fun d

and showing off glorious views and uncrowded experiences on the ro

less travelled. The hilltop winery and tasting room, looking out over th

heritage Zindandel vineyard visitors drive through along the way, are b

over more than a miles worth of caves dug into the hillside. Picnic tabl

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.3522 Silverado Trail N, St. Helena CA 94574

(800) 622-2206 | www.rombauer.com


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | ON THE COV

Come and experience the history and

pastoral setting with picnic grounds,a bocce court and a horse shoe pit.

Tours & Tastings offered daily

Exclusive Group & LunchPackages by appointment

Open Daily 11-56613 Pope Valley Road, Pope Valley, CA 9456(707) 965-1246 www.popevalleywinery.com

PREMIUM NAPA VALLEY WINES FOUNDED IN 1897

and a trellised gazebo let you know from the outset what matters

most: relaxed enjoyment. Tastings are available daily at three

separate tasting bars in the tasting room, as is the self-guided

garden tour. Stroll through the more than one hundred plant and

flower species and the views of the Mayacamas are photo-worthy,for sure. A flight of classic releases await.

The wines are just as much a standout as the views, and fitting

in with their ethos, the Rombauers really have thought through

the logistics of pairing wine and food, not just in terms of varietals

but also in offering multiple bottle sizes, ranging from 375

millimeter half-bottles, to the standard 750 bottle we all know so

well, to 1.5-liter magums and even larger formats for occasions

requiring something extra special. What awaits are several

different Chardonnays, Merlots, Zinfandels, and a range of

Cabernets and Cab-based bottlings, including the best of vintage

red blend, Le Meilleur du Chai. There are also two terrific sweets,a Zinfandel Port and the Late Harvest Chardonnay known simply

and unsurprisingly as Joy.

The next generation of Rombauers, siblings Sheana and

Koerner III, have stepped into maintaining the winerys way of

doing things with aplomb. Lots of winery-only releases await, and

visitors in search of the real Napa experience need look no

further. Theres a reason the name Rombauer brings such great

associations and why theyre winning so many golds still, after

three decades; come taste for yourself and find out why youll be

glad you did. Enjoy!


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MeAdoWCRoFt WiNesVineyard Tours, Food Pairings ReturnBY ALExANDRA CHARSLEY

The Meadowcroft Wines tasting room is located at the gateway

the Sonoma Valley within a unique collection of shops, art gallerie

dining, sculpture trails and architectural gardens called Cornerston

Sonoma. The tasting room opened in October of 2010 and has

quickly become a hot spot of activity for folks on the way to and fr

Sonoma.

The recently redecorated tasting room is big and bright and on

most days the doors are left wide open, welcoming you to a wine

country tasting room that is truly more than just a tasting room.

Visitors can taste the award-winning wines at the bar or seated at

indoor tables or at outdoor patio tables. There is also the new outd

lavender lounge area complete with comfortable seating, umbrel

and a fire pit. But what people really come to Meadowcroft for is th

wine.

There are three labels being poured in the Meadowcroft Wine

tasting room; Meadowcroft Wines, Thomas Henry Wines and Fo

Family Wines (honoring Indy racing legend A.J. Foyt). Winema

Tom Meadowcroft crafts his wines from estate and other sustain

farmed vineyards in Napa and Sonoma. His 2008 Meadowcroft

estate Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon received a 91 rating in

Wine Enthusiast while the Foyt Family Mount Veeder Cabernet

Sauvignon just received a Double Gold award at the San Francis

Chronicle wine competition.

Known for their special events such as the recently completed

Mardi Gras Celebration, the annual Foyt Racing extravaganza and

their many songwriter events, the staff at Meadowcroft also enjoys

gathering with their wine club members for monthly food and win

events, often served up with their now famous BBQ pizzas with C

sausage.

The tasting room is gearing up for the spring and summer mon

Tom Meadowcr

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.They are very family and dog friendly.

23574 Arnold Drive/Highway 121, Sonoma CA 95476(707) 934-4090 | meadowcroftwines.com


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

when their weekend Vineyard Tours will

resume. Tours are available at 11 a.m. and 2

p.m. each Saturday and Sunday where guests

are given a glass of Meadowcroft Pinot Noir and

then tour and learn about the vineyard where

the fruit was grown.The classic food and wine pairings created by

the tasting rooms Chef Darby will return in

summer utilizing fresh, locally grown farm-to-

table ingredients and cheeses procured from

throughout Sonoma County. Additionally,

cheese and chocolate pairings are available upon

request.

Also coming up are some new wine releases

which has everyone in the tasting room pretty

excited. The mainstay of the Meadowcroft brand

the estate grown Mount Veeder Cabernet

Sauvignon, which comes from Tom Meadowcroft

own vineyard on the famed Napa mountain. The

2009 vintage is about to be released, and it stand

shoulder to shoulder with the previous four awarwinning vintages. And, there is also a new wine

ready for release, the 2010 Meadowcroft Oak Kno

Cabernet Sauvignon also from Napa. This is a

limited production wine and will probably sell ou

quickly.

So, whether you stop in to enjoy their wines in

the tasting room, the patio or even in the gardens

Meadowcroft Wines should be your first stop in

Wine Country.

Continued



WiNe CouNtRY NeWs | WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

on vnyar, on Wn, Ma Rh:da Fln Wnry P srah.

David Fulton Winery, an historic Petite Sirah producer, is pleased

to introduce their 2009 vintage Petite Sirah, from their 153-year-old,

dry-farmed, head-pruned, family vineyard.

The 2009 has been released only a few months and is already

receiving steady acclaim from the three International wine

competitions it had been entered: The American Fine Wine

Competition held in Boca Raton, FL.; San Francisco Chronicles

International Wine Competition and The International Womens

Wine Competition held in Santa Rosa, CA.

The current release of 2009, though unique by itself, packs the

same wallop of earlier ones. Dark, big and massive as you would

expect of a David Fulton, you will find with this one that Petite Sirah

is not just a name its their plan for the game. Black fruit and cassis

on the nose, the flavors of black berries, black pepper, allspice, cloves

and creamy sweet oak are a few of the descriptors that come to mind.

The mid palate is coating, thick and packed with texture. There is a

long finish with a bit more grip than usual. They suggest you can

drink now, hold for a year or two, or lay it down for a decade as all

viable options. Only 281 cases were produced.

In the 2009, growing season, there were considerably less days of

frost than in previous years, which lowered to some extent the danger

of crop loss. However, late spring rains delayed warm temps untilJune weather curtailed excessive canopy development. Finally, there

were nearly 14 days of 100F temperatures, which brought the

overall weather around to a more desirable growing season.

We have one vineyard and make just one wine here at David

Fulton Winery. Our total production is less than 400 cases a year,

says DFWs Stephanie Trotter Zacharia. We sort the clusters by hand

before de-stemming then, we hand sort each berry before

fermentationWe subscribe to a three-year barrel aging program

before each release.

The David Fulton Winery 2009 Petite Sirah was grown in the

historic St. Helena estate vineyards planted in 1860. David Fulton

also built the towns first stone wine cellar under the winery next to itjust one year later. He also invented the famous Fulton One Horse

Plow. This exact location is where the wine is still being produced

today in much the same, old-fashioned way. It is the same location

where the current owners offer tastings.

The vineyard and winerys current owners are David Fultons great-

grandson, Fulton Mather and his wife, Dink. They pick and sort the

grapes each year along with wine club members, friends and family,

by hand before fermentation. The fermented grapes skins are then

pressed out in a traditional wood basket press, and the wine is aged

for nearly three years in thin-staved French oak barrels. The resulti

wine receives consistently high acclaim among their peers and is a

favorite referral among Petite Sirah fans.

David Fulton Winery & Vineyards is located at 825 Fulton Lan

just four blocks east of Hwy 29, in Napa Valleys historic St. Helena

Visitors are invited to the winery any day by appointment. You

should note that the winery doesnt have any commercial signage,

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

winerys private setting. For appointments or more infomation, cal

(707) 967-0719 or go to www.DavidFultonWinery.com. Look for

David Fulton Winerty & Vineyards on Facebook and Twitter!

15 Acres of 153-Year-Old Petite Sirah VinesBeing Preserved by David Fulton Winery


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The 11th Annual Pinot Noir Summit, hosted by Affairs of the

Vine, will take place on Saturday, March 16 at Herbst at The Presidio

in San Francisco.

Wine-loving consumers, trade and press will gather at Herbst at

The Presidio to taste and assess the amazing wines submitted to this

years Pinot Noir Shootout competition. Attendees will pit theirpalates against the expert judging panel at the Pinot Noir Showdown,

attend two Pinot Noir Workshops and attend the Grand Awards

Tasting & Ceremony.

The event is the culmination of the 11th Pinot Noir ShootoutCompetition, the largest competitive tasting of Pinot Noir in the

world. More than 400 Pinot Noirs from top growing regions within

the New World were entered and tasted over an eight-week period by

an expert panel consisting of wine writers, winemakers and wine

educators.

The Pinot Noir Showdown brings a unique component to the day

as attendees blind taste 40 of the top wines selected by the

professional judging panel. Male and female votes are talliedseparately and the results are announced at the Grand Tasting &

Awards Ceremony.

The evolution and advancement in excellence of Pinot Noir over

the past 11 years has been truly amazing, stated Barbara Drady,President and Chief Wine Evangelist of Affairs of the Vine, the

company that developed and manages the Pinot Noir Summit. There

is no doubt that the bar has been raised dramatically over the past 11

years as the number and outstanding quality of the wines we tastefrom diverse regions across the New World has increaseddramatically.

The Pinot Noir Summit wraps up with The Pinot Noir ShootouGrand Tasting & Awards Ceremony. Wineries will pour their fabul

Pinot Noirs for attendees and discuss one on one their approach aphilosophy. A selection of Pinot-friendly hors doeuvres will beserved. During the Grand Tasting, awards will be presented to thisyears winners from both the Blind Tasting and the professionallyjudged Pinot Noir Shootout.

Pn Nr smm schlAll Day Access Includes two workshops, Blind Tasting and

Grand Tasting & Awards Ceremony 12:30-3 p.m. Workshops conducted by winemakers,

viticulturalists and wine educators. 3-5:30 p.m. Pinot Noir Showdown A Blind Tasting of 40 of the top wines

6-8:30 p.m. Grand Awards Tasting & Ceremony Top Pinot Nwinemakers will showcase their wines with a Pinot-friendlyselection of light hors doeuvres. The winners will be unveiled anfinal results will be announced at 7:45 p.m. (Tickets may bepurchased separately).

Pinot Noir Summit tickets are $75-$125. Visit affairsofthevine.comHerbst at the Presidio is located at 385 Moraga Avenue, Golden GaNational Recreation Area, San Francisco, CA 94129.

11th Annual Pinot Noir Summit Continues Legac


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NAPA vALLeY| WiNe CouNtRY tHis WeeK

tAstiNg RooM oF tHe WeeK:

HAgAFeN CeLLARsExperience the Wine Welcome of a Life Time!BY MONICA L. DASHWOOD

Hagafen Cellars, located on the Silverado Trail in Napa Valley, welcomes yowith open arms to their friendly, warm and down to earth tasting room. Com

sit, relax and sample exceptional wines amongst the outdoor scents of rosema

and citrus, soft sounding wind chimes, and Italian landscaped gardens. Ernie

and Irit Weir started Hagafen Cellars in 1979, with their first commerciallyreleased vintage in 1980. Over the years, Ernie has perfected the craft of

winemaking and plays an active role in every aspect of the business, grapegrowing to winemaking to marketing the finest wines. Hagafen Cellars has ma

fine wines from which to choose. They produce 8 to 10 varietals each year anoffer 20 distinct wines on their tasting menu, including Cabernet Franc,

Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Roussanne, Sauvignon

Blanc, Syrah, and White Riesling. They also produce a Brut Cuve sparkling

wines as well as a late harvest dessert wine. Their small lot releases start with

superb fruit which highlights each of the regions from which grapes are sourcFor this reason, their production is only 8,000 cases, coming from their own

acre estate and from other select growers primarily from Napa Valley.

As for new releases, Hagafen Cellars is excited to offer their 2007 Napa

Valley Brut Cuve Late Disgorged Sparkling wine. This elegant bubbly is fullbodied, clean and beautiful just like a star with its soft, slightly rosy, hue and

multitude of tiny shining bubbles. Hagafen is also proud of its Estate Bottled

2008 Napa Valley Syrah, produced from their newest vineyard: Weir Family

Vineyard III in the Coombsville AVA, along the Eastern foothills of the ValleyThis wine opens with a nose that jumps out of the glass with its bright Bing

cherry and black pepperiness. Also be sure to taste their newly released 2012

Estate Bottled Napa Valley Coombsville Dry White Riesling, a wine that is sur

to please!

Tours are offered daily at 11 a.m., by appointment only, except Saturdaysand holidays. Hagafen Cellars offers their award winning wines in their tastin

room, on-line, in select stores and restaurants, and also through their three

distinct exclusive wine clubs: Prix, Hagafen and RS (residual sugar).

Open Daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.4160 Silverado Trail, Napa CA 94558 USA

(707) 252 0781 ext 113 | www.hagafen.com

Ernie Weir


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Welcome toY O U N T V I L L E

Pplar en Far Wn Cnry Blck Parywh Ynll Clbra Raran an Wnr,aln wh Napa vally opn s Ar en

Yountville, the Culinary Capital of the Napa Valley, will host the

20th Annual Taste of Yountville celebration March 15-16, to

showcase the towns finest food, wine and arts. Taste of Yountville will

culminate in a town-wide block party on Saturday, March 16th in

which food and wine lovers can experience the best of local favorites

while strolling along Washington Street.

In addition to the Taste of Yountville block party, the town will

host several special events throughout the celebration, including local

fine arts events hosted by the Yountville Arts Committee, specialcooking demonstrations and guided tours of The French Laundrys

garden.

Fray, March 15

The Yountville Arts Committee will present the popular Taste of

Yountville Show & Sale Artist Reception hosted by Napa Valley Open Studio Artists from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The artist reception will be a

one-of-a-kind opportunity to meet as many as 45 of Napa Valleys

most prestigious local artists, and view their work on display,

including fine art, ceramics, glass, jewelry and mixed media, at the

Yountville Community Center. Admission is $10 and all works wi

be available for purchase during the two-day sale through Saturday

March 16, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the YountvilleArts Committee. For more information, visit the Napa Valley Open

Studio Artists website at www.napavalleyopenstudios.info/taste-of-

yountville.html.

saray, March 16

The celebration will culminate with the feature event, the 20th

Annual Taste of Yountville block party, where the towns acclaimed

restaurants and wineries will offer savory bites, micro brews and

Yountvilles finest wine along pedestrian-friendly Washington Stree

The event will take place from noon to 5 p.m., and admission is fr

Tasting tickets to experience many of Yountvilles restaurants and

dozens of Napa Valley wineries are only $1 each.Taste of Yountville block party participating restaurants have

previously included: Bistro Jeanty, Bouchon, Bottega, etoile at

Domaine Chandon, Hurleys Restaurant & Bar, Lucy Restaurant &

Bar at Bardessono, NapaStyle, aninoteca, Pacific Blues and Redd.

Past participating wineries included: Bell Wine Cellars, Cliff Led

Vineyards, Domaine Chandon, Girard Winery, Cornerstone Cellar

Goosecross Cellars, Hopper Creek Winery, Jessup Cellars and

Somerston Wine Company.

A special garden tour of The French Laundrys two-acre culinar

masterpiece by culinary gardener Aaron Keefer is also available

20th Annual Taste of Yountville Celebrates the Towns World-FamousFood and Wine, Bringing Fine Art and Special Events to the Napa Valle


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(weather permitting, check website for

details). In addition, a one-day Passport will

be available to visitors to get stamped along

the event route during Taste of Yountville for

a chance to win special prizes at days end.

Key sponsors of the event include the

Yountville Chamber of Commerce, the Town

of Yountville, V Marketplace 1870, KVON

1440 AM and 99.3 THE VINE, Maille and

xfinity. For more information and updates on

Taste of Yountville events, visit

yountville.com or Yountvilles Facebook page

at www.facebook.com/YountvilleChamber.

About Yountville:

Nestled in the heart of the Napa Valley,

Yountville was the site of Napa Valleys first

planted vines in 1838. Home to world-

renowned restaurants and award-winning

chefs, Yountville is the regions paramount

culinary scene with five MICHELIN stars.

An ideal base for the avid oenophile,

Yountvilles microclimate pedigree has its

own American Viticultural Area (AVA) and

offers more than 24 unparalleled wineries

and producers. Yountville is home to 11

premium hotel properties, the countys only

hot air ballooning launch, five National

Register of Historic Places sites as well as

shopping, galleries and performing arts.

Located approximately 55 miles north of

San Francisco, visitors can arrive via scenic

Highway 29 or via Napa County Airport,

Sacramento (SMF), Oakland (OAK) or San

Francisco (SFO) international airports.

For more information and travel

inquiries, contact the Yountville Chamber

of Commerce at (707) 944-0904 or visit

www.yountville.com. You can also

Like them on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/YountvilleChamber.

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Sutter Home Family Vineyards today announced the multi-

platinum selling group New Kids on the Block will perform at Sutter

Home Winery on Saturday, April 6th and Sunday, April 7th as part

of the star-studded lineup for Live In The Vineyard, an exclusive

music festival amidst the lush scenery of wineries in Napa Valley,

California. The private wine, food and music festival will also

include performances by The Goo Goo Dolls performing on

Saturday, April 6th at Uptown The

nor cal edition - march 15, 2013

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