sonoma county fall/winter 2010

8/8/2019 Sonoma County Fall/Winter 2010

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Eastside Bunchw.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Fall/Winter 2010

7 Wine Tasting Trips plus37 Tasting Room Reviews

DAY TRIPS

PREFERREDSonoma Wine Country

off Highway 101

A publication of


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Travelling around Sonoma CountyTravelTime

miles ag) (Pk)

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sbtopo to snt ro 7 12 20

Downtown s nt r o to H dbug 16 20 30

Hdbug to Gy 8 15 15

DryCreekPages7-13

DowntownHealdsburgPages14-19

WestsideRoad

Pages20-25

EastsideBunch

Pages33-38

Russian River/Olivet

Pages39-46

Sebastopol/FreestonePages47-51

Gateway to

AlexanderValley

Pages26-32


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3www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

669 Broadway, Suite B Sonoma, CA 95476

P.O. Box 92 El Verano, CA 95433

707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674

PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco

Direct (707) [email protected]

SALES REPRESENTATIVE Margaret Villarreal, [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR Chandra GrantPhone 707-938-1783 Fax [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER Cathy GorePhone 707-938-3494 Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]

EDITORIAL Introductions by Abigail ZimmermanCONTRIBUTORS Michelle Baker

Charles NeaveNan ReileySue Straight, Wine Wench

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

On the cover: Armida Winery, Healdsburg

A Publication of

Acorn Winery 34Armida Winery 21Balletto Vineyard 48Christopher Creek Winery 35

De La Montanya Vineyards & Winery 24DeLoach Vineyards 45Dry Creek Vineyards 8Dutcher Crossing Winery 11Dutton Estate Winery 49Dutton-Goldfield Winery 50Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery 9Field Stone Winery & Vineyard 32Foppiano Vineyards 36Forchini Vineyards & Winery 12

Freestone Vineyards 51Hook & Ladder Winery 43John Tyler by Bacigalupi Vineyard 22Kendall-Jackson Healdsburg 16Kendall-Jackson Wine Center 40Martin Ray Winery 46Meeker 29Merriam Vineyards 37Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery 23Prohibition The Speakeasy Wine Club 17

Rodney Strong Vineyards 38Russian Hill Estate 41Sausal Winery 31Sbragia Family Vineyards 10Silver Oak 28Simi Winery 27Sonoma-Cutrer 42Stephen & Walker Trust Winery 19Sunc Winery 44Topel Tasting Room 18Truett Hurst Winery 13Twomey Cellars 25Vintners Signatures 30

Dry Creek 7-13Downtown Healdsburg 14-19Westside Road 20-25

Alexander Valley 26-32Eastside Bunch 33-38Russian River/Olivet 39-46Sebastopol/Freestone 47-51

Index & Contact Information 52-53

37 Tasting RoomReviews7Wine Tasting TripsDAY TRIPS

PREFERREDSonoma Wine Country

off Highway 101


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4 www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Its a good idea to plan to visit several wineries as every

wine-tasting experience offered is different. With so many

distinctive viticultural areas, one can easily taste many of

the worlds best varietials and winemaking styles without

learning the region. Listed below are five basic types of

tasting experiences. The experience will vary in style fromwinery to winery.

Wine Bar TastingThe most common tasting experience is a Wine Bar

Tasting. You step up to the bar where typically a list of

wines being poured is displayed. Expect to pay a tasting

fee between $10-$40. Some tasting bars will offer you the

option to taste a library or reserve wine. Exercising this

option increases the fee, but will allow you to taste very

unique, old or rare wines.

Sit Down TastingA Sit Down Tasting usually requires an appointment

and there may be a slightly higher fee than a wine bar fee.

Seated in an elegant room, you are poured several wines

by your winery host. Expect your host to describe the

unique characteristics of each wine and how it was made.

Table Service TastingA Table Service Tasting, popular at sparkling wine fa-

cilities, is a tasting experience where you are seated at a

table and the tastings are brought to you.

Walk Around TastingA Walk Around Tasting is a combination of a tour and

a tasting. Your host brings along several bottles of wine on

your tour, and may take you to a garden area of the win-

ery to pour the first round. Then you move to another

place within the winery to sample the next wine. This ex-

perience continues until all the wines are tasted.

Barrel TastingAnother popular tasting experience that can be part

of a tour or a Walk Around is a Barrel Tasting. Your guide

takes a wine thief, a special siphon placed into a hole in

the top of a barrel to extract tasting samples of a matur-

ing wine. The sample allows you to taste what the wine

is like in the middle of developing its full potential.

Why make an appointment?Some wineries are so small that they need to know

when you are coming so someone will be there to greet

you. Other wineries have permit restrictions that limit

the number of guests that can visit each day. Others have

sit-down tastings that start and end at specific times. Its

always a good idea to schedule your appointments well in

advance of your visit because some of the more popular

wineries fill up their appointments weeks in advance.WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM

Notes on Wine Tasting


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6

Do not be intimidated for any

reason. That is rule number one

(and there are very few real rules

after that). For the most part,

going wine tasting is about theeasiest thing in the world, espe-

cially here in Northern California

where wineries and tasting

rooms abound. You can find

wineries specializing in red

wines of all types, those that are

famous for their white wines and

others who pour sparkling wine. It is a matter of doing a

little research and planning your day.

Most tasting rooms open around 10 a.m. and close be-tween 4:30 and 6 p.m. As a rule sparkling wine houses are

opened the latest. Before you start off pack a few essen-

tials:Water (plenty of water) and something to snack on

crackers or a baguette. Many wineries have picnic areas

and there are plenty of delis and bakeries that can make up

a lunch for you, or make your own. Which brings us to

eating and drinking, the kind that doesnt directly involve

wine.

Be sure to nibble during the day and make sure you

make time for lunch. Two tips: drink at least twice as muchwater as you do wine, and remember that you dont have

to drink everything poured into your glass. There is a rea-

son tasting bars have dump buckets and a pitcher of water

to wash out your glass.

That said, here are some tips that have proven to be

helpful and are designed to help make the sensory adven-

ture of wine tasting all the more enjoyable.

Dont be afraid to ask questions. Time and time again

I have heard knowledgeable winery workers say that there

is no such thing as a stupid question, and they mean that.You can drink what you want, in the order you want.

If you only like reds, say so; if you dont like sweet wines,

speak up. But the idea of starting with whites, then going

on to reds and then sweet wines is a good guide.

Zinfandel is red. I am sure you know that but it never

hurts to remind everyone.

If there is a particular wine you want to try and it is

not on the list, ask. There might be a bottle around that

was opened for a trade tasting or by the winemaker. Most

tasting rooms are happy to pour a little if you show en-

thusiasm.

If you plan to take wine home with you, either in the

car or on a plane, buy a card-

board box with Styrofoam wine

inserts. Fill it during the day and

this keeps wine from rolling

around in the trunk.Check out the smaller winer-

ies. It is a revelation.

Take notes on the wines you

most enjoyed.

Take advantage of tours

when the winery offers them, but

keep in mind that they take any-

where from 20 minutes to well over an hour, so one a day

is plenty.

Buy wines that you can only find at the winery. Theseoften include smaller (375 ml) bottles of limited produc-

tion Ports or dessert wines. Dont buy a wine you can get

at a supermarket back home. Youll pay more, and besides,

whats the point?Look for tasting rooms in towns. Many of these are co-

operative tasting rooms, where in one place you might find

wines from a dozen or more small-to-medium premium

producers. They are scattered throughout the area and

more are opening all the time.

Dont give too much thought to ratings and vintages.Its like art: if you like it, its a good wine. It is as simple as

that.

Remember that you dont have to do the driving. It

takes no more than a phone call to rent anything from a

Town Car or restored Packard convertible to stretch limos

and a 20-passenger bus. All have drivers that will stow

your wine for you and the local companies know the area.

As to taking that wine home, ten people sharing one of

those impossibly long limousines is fine and fun, but if you

all plan to buy a couple of cases the trunk which is nobigger than a normal luxury cars is going to fill up fast

and youre going to find yourself filling the interior floor

with boxes and using cases of Cabernet as footrest.

Tell the transportation company what you have in

mind and listen to their advice. They know the territory

and the people and personalities.

Know your limits. If you get close to it let others taste

and you can listen. It beats ending the day in a blur, and if

need be calling a taxi is cheaper than the alternative.And if at a seated tasting, dont be afraid to leave a gra-

tuity. Its more than worth the five or ten dollars to get

wisdom and wine and a great time. BY CHARLES NEAVE

www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

Heading to the Tasting Room

Twomey Cellars


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7Dry Creek Valleywww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Dry Creek Valley

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DUTCHER CROSSING

SBRAGIA

FAMILY

VINEYARDS

Dry Creek wine country is one of the smallest enclosed Amer-

ican Viticultural Areas in the nation, only 16 miles long and

twomiles wide. With 9,300acres of vineyardalong this

beautiful valleys floor, Dry Creek is a must see for first-timeand veteran wine lovers. Dry Creek boasts 63 wineries pro-

ducing a diverse range of wines from the famed Zinfandel to

Bordeaux and even Mediterranean varietals. Dont let its

small size fool you

Dry Creek winemakers have been growing grapes and mak-

ing great wines for morethan135 years!

THINGS TO DOLake Sonoma Hatchery3333 skgg spng rod, Gy(707) 433-9483, www.pk.ono.nt

Located in the beautiful coastal foothills of Northern Cali-fornia, Lake Sonoma is surrounded by vineyards andland rich in history. Here, visitors can observe the operationof the hatchery and see displays which describe the lifecycle of the coho salmon, steelhead and chinook. Open yearround.

Dry Creek Olive Oil, 4791 Dy Ck rod, Hdbug(707) 431-7200, www.DyCkOCopny.coRooted in traditions as rich as the Dry Creek Soil, DryCreek Olive Oil Company is your destination for artisan,

very fine, extra-virgin olive oils.

PICNIC FARE

Oakville Grocery, 124 mthon stt, Hdbug

(707) 433-3200, www.OkGocy.coLittle Country Store with overflowing shelves and adeli chock full of handmade, gourmet picnic items,

the Oakville Grocery is an absolute MUST.

Dry Creek General Store, (707) 433-4171

3495 Dy Ck rod, HdbugSo much more than just a corner store, established in 1881,this is also a full-service deli and beer garden with livemusic occassionally, spectacular views and a wealth of in-

formation on wine tasting, tours and even fishing!

LODGING

Grape Leaf Inn, 539 Johnon stt, Hdbug

(707) 433-8140, www.gpfnn.co

A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast,the Grape Leaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor withtimeless antiques. Gracious staff provide the best hospital-ity in this relaxing, romantic environment.

Hope Merrill & Hope Bosworth B&B21253 Gy anu, Gy

(707) 857-3356, www.hop-nn.coOnce an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikinglyrestored Queen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with

Not to scale

Driving Time:16 minutes

FosbgFyto F-Cno 1 to D utch C ong 2 to Tutt Hut 2.5 to Fochn >0.5 to Dy Ck 2

Total8 miles


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8 Dry Creek Valley www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

When you drive through beautiful Dry Creek Valley in

northern Sonoma County, you will see that the entire valley

floor is covered with vineyards. Its quite obvious what the

economy here is all about! But if you were passing through in

1972, youd have found a few prune orchards and not much

else in the way of agriculture. One man changed all that

well, at least he started the wave of

change in the valley to wine-grape

growing.

Dave Stare, founder of Dry

Creek Vineyard, can be character-

ized as a man of tenacity and

vision, unafraid to experiment to

create a new future. A lover of

Loire Valley French wines, Daves

vision was to make excellent Fum

Blanc (Sauvignon Blanc) and

Chenin Blanc in Loire Valley stylein California. His new winery, Dry Creek Vineyard, was the

first to be built in the valley since the era of Prohibition. He

had no one elses expertise or experience to draw on, and

many predicted that he would fail, but failure was not in Dave

Stares makeup. His young daughter Kim was with him to

help turn over the first shovel of dirt for the winerys foun-

dation, and she is still side-by-side with her father as she and

husband Don Wallace have become the second generation of

the family to carry on the tradition of fine wines made from

Sonoma County grapes.Although the winerys flagship wines are still the out-

standing Fum Blanc and Chenin Blanc (the only wine whose

grapes come from outside Sonoma County), Dry Creek now

makes many other varieties, including excellent Chardonnay,

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel as well as a few

single-vineyard-designated wines. Many of these wines are

available only at the tasting room, so treat yourself to a visit

to the pioneer winery of Dry

Creek Valley.

The path to the winerys tast-

ing room meanders through

shady lawns dotted with picnic

tables. After 35 years, the winerys

stone walls are covered with soft

moss and clinging vines, stately

and serene. Inside the tasting

room, youll see many photos and

illustrations of sailing boats, and

sailing boats are the primaryillustration on the winerys labels, reflecting a life-long passion

for sailing shared now by three generations of Stares and Wal-

laces. You might also notice glamorous photos of Kim Wallace

in the company of blockbuster movie stars, because for the

past 10 years, Dry Creek Vineyard has been the official wine

poured at the annual red-carpet Screen Actors Guild award

ceremonies.

Do-not-miss wines include the highly acclaimed 2008

Fum Blanc and the delicious 2006 Somers Ranch Zinfan-

del. Chilled wines are available for your after-tasting picnic onthe lawn. BY NAN REILEY

Dry Creek VineyardOpn10:30..to4:30p..dy

3770LambertBridgeRoad,Healdsburg(707) 433-1000 www.drycreekvineyard.com

Chenin Blanc, Fum Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc,

Chardonnay, Petite Zin Ros, Zinfandel,

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon

FUN Mention Day Trips off the 101 and receiveFACT one complimentary bar tasting. (value: $5)

Dry Creek Vineyard

Dave Stare, Don & Kim Wallace


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Now you have two choices when tasting Ferrari-Carano

wines visit Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery in Dry

Creek Valley, or taste the wines in Healdsburg at Ferrari-

Caranos new Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & Boutique!

Visit the beautiful home of Ferrari-Carano wines, the spec-

tacular Italianate hospitality wine center, Villa Fiore, set in

the midst of the 70-acre Dry Creek

Valley estate vineyard. Here you

may taste the critically-acclaimedClassic Wines at the Tasting Bar in

the Villa Fiore Wine Shop, or head

downstairs to sample Limited Re-

lease and Reserve Wines in the

Enoteca located in the under-

ground cellar. Stroll five acres of

beautiful gardens at your leisure,

and be sure to browse the Wine

Shop where youll find wine coun-

trys most distinctive gift selections,gourmet gift and wine packs, and

of course, the entire portfolio of Ferrari-Carano wines.

If youd like an in-depth look at Ferrari-Carano, reserve

your spot for the free winery tour. You will stroll through

renownedgardens, see vineyards up close, perhaps catch one

of the winemaking team or cellar crew hard at work, view

Don and Rhonda Caranos personal wine cellar, and visit the

Enoteca Lounge and Villa Fiore tasting rooms. After the tour,

you are invited to taste Ferrari-Carano wines at the Tasting

Bar or in the Enoteca Lounge. Winery tours are by appoint-

ment, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. To schedule your

tour, email [email protected], or call the

Hospitality Department at (707) 433-6700.

Private wine tastings in the PreVail Room are also avail-

able by appointment. Each tasting is designed to highlight

the many nuances of wine in a fun and informative style,

and include The Matchmaker wine and food pairing,

Chardonnay Lovers, The King of Reds, The PreVail Tasting

and Scentiments, to name a few.

Private tastings are $20 to $35.

To schedule a private tasting,call (707) 433-6700 or email

[email protected].

Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of

the Vineyard Tasting Bar & Bou-

tique, located on the Healdsburg

Plaza, offers visitors hand-picked

wine flights from the Ferrari-

Carano and Lazy Creek Vineyards

portfolio of wines. Here, cus-

tomers may enjoy the easy,relaxed atmosphere of tasting

wines as well as shopping for unique home dcor gifts from

Californias wine country. Featuring exclusive collections in-

cluding Sandra Jordan Soft Peruvian Prima Alpaca and

whimsical ceramics by Carlo Marchiori, as well as classic Ital-

ian ceramics from Vietri, Fortunata and Modigliani,

decorative table runners and pillows, and other home ac-

cessories, visitors will certainly find something to remind

them of their time spent in wine country. If youre looking

for a venue for a private group tasting, the beautiful Back

Room is perfect for up to 30 people. Your tasting may be

customized to include chocolates, cheeses or small bites.

Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & WineryOpn10..to5p..dy

8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, (707) 433-6700

SeasonsoftheVineyardTastingBar&BoutiqueTudy-sundy 11 .. to 6 p.., cod mondy

113Plaza Street, Healdsburg, (707) 431-2222

www.ferrari-carano.com

FUN Plan extra time for this stop theres too

FACT much to see, taste and explore to be rushed!

Ferrari-CaranoVineyards

& Winery


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10 Dry Creek Valley www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

If you are planning a visit to Sonoma County and

Healdsburg in particular, do not miss a visit to Sbragia

Family Vineyards! Its less than 10 miles out on Dry

Creek Road from downtown Healdsburg. This is a very

special place; well worth the

trip!

The wines are wonderful! In

fact, Owner/Founder Ed Sbra-gia is the only winemaker in the

world to have won awards for

crafting both the best red wine

and the best white wine!

The cellar is downstairs,

with large windows providing

a view into the inner workings

of the winery. The tasting room

is upstairs, with a large covered patio that wrapsaround the back, providing a breathtaking view of the

Dry Creek Valleys vineyards and redwood studded

hills.

The tasting room is bright with windows looking out

onto the valley. There is a vast assortment of tastefully

displayed wine-related merchandise. Freshly cut flow-

ers from the familys garden are artfully arranged around

the tasting room. As well as growing beautiful flowers

they also have a wonderful produce garden, too!Visitors are encouraged to purchase wine by the glass

(or by the bottle), pick out some snacks from the deli

case and relax at one of the many outside picnic tables.

There is a $5 tasting fee to taste four wines and a

$10 tasting fee to taste four of the reserve Cabernet

Sauvignons. Tasting fees are re-

fundable with your purchase.

Private tours and tastings

are available by appointment.Sbragia Family Vineyards

has a lovely private tasting

room, The Ark, which is

named after their historic fam-

ily bar/restaurant on the

Russian River in Healdsburg,

where visitors can enjoy wine

and food pairings, vertical

flights and other memorable experiences.If you or someone you know is planning a wedding

or special event, this is a great place to consider they

can accommodate 150 seated guests or 350 standing

(cocktail style). There is a full commercial kitchen that

is a caterers dream, not to mention the fabulous views

and world-class wines which will make it an event no

one will forget!

The saying here at Sbragia is, The only thing better

than the view is the wine! Come see for yourself!BY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

Sbragia Family VineyardsOpnfo11..to5p..dy

9990DryCreekRoad,Geyserville

(707)473-2992www.sbragia.com

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot,ZinfandelandCabernetSauvignon

FUN Mention this story for complimentary tasting.FACT Tell em the Wine Wench sent you!

Sbragia Family Vineyards

Ed and Adam Sbragia


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Dutcher Crossing Winery has everything a wine-loving

visitor could hope for delicious, reasonably priced wines,

a beautiful tasting room staffed with friendly and knowl-

edgeable employees, a gorgeous picnic area with stunning

views of Dry Creek Valley and a

winery dog eager to welcome

you.

Lets start outside you pullinto the parking lot and notice

the beautiful landscaping sur-

rounding the brown, barn-like

building that is the winery and

tasting room. A flagstone path

leads you through a riot of color-

ful flowers to a breezeway that

separates the winery from the

tasting room.Glass doors provide a view into the barrel room and

winery. Most likely, youll be greeted by Dutchess, the

sweet, tail-wagging yellow Lab owned by Dutcher Crossing

Winerys Proprietor, Debra Mathy.

The picnic area is lovely and its views of the Dry Creek

Valley are breathtaking. There are six picnic tables under a

wisteria-covered arbor. The colorful, fragrant landscaping

and manicured lawns will make you want kick off your

shoes and stay a while.The tasting room is large, bright and airy, with high ceil-

ings, glossy wood floors and tasteful dcor. A vintage high-

wheel bicycle (the original antique was given to Debra by

her late father) sits against a wall, beckoning to be ridden

(well, I was tempted to try to ride it, but I restrained

myself). A good selection of

non-wine items are available for

browsing as you sip and stroll

around the room.During the week, there is a

$5 tasting fee (waived for wine

club members) to sample a va-

riety of six wines, and on

weekends a $10 reserve tasting

is available as well. Winemaker

Kerry Damskey does a wonder-

ful job with these wines!

I really enjoyed all the wines I tasted, but the followingtwo wines were my favorites:

2009 Sauvignon Blanc, $22: Wow! This is one aro-

matic, tasty white wine! Aromas of peach, pear, apple,

melon and white flowers continue as flavors in the crisp,

clean mouth and linger through the finish.

2007 Proprietors Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, $29:

This is a $60 Cabernet Sauvignon in a $29 dress! Its a clas-

sic! Aromas and flavors of black cherry, mocha, vanilla,

cedar and spice abound, all wrapped up in a plush mouth-feel. BY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

Dutcher Crossing WineryOpn11..to5p..dy

8533DryCreekRoad,Healdsburg

(707) 431-2700 www.dutchercrossingwinery.com

Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon,Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc

FUN Indulgent dark chocolates are offered with theFACT Cab-SyrahPortandit'satrulydivineduo:Yum!

Dutcher Crossing Winery

Debra Mathy

and Dutchess


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14 Downtown Healdsburg www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Downtown HealdsburgHealdsburg is charming. Every brick, every flower box, every elegant shop andeclectic gallery, every five-star restaurant and cozy cafe on

every single corner speak to this town's genuine individuality anddown-to-earth-treasures. DowntownHealdsburg maybe surrounded by

bucolic rolling hills andpicturesque vineyards, but around this age-oldsquare, its hard to imagine being anywhere elsemore delightful.

No matter what time of year, Healdsburg is a town forevery season.

GROVE

ST

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AVE

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PRINCE

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KENDALL JACKSON

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NORTH ST

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Ferrari-Caranos

SEASONS OFTHE VINEYARD

Plaza

PROHIBITION

MATHESON

PLAZA ST

OAKVILLE GROCERY

Options Gallery

Healdsburg Innon the Plaza

EASTST

CENTER

Historic HomesWalking Tours

Hand Fan Museum

POWELLS SWEET SHOPPE

Cyrus

Hotel Healdsburg

Raven Theater

GRAPE LEAF INN

Sonoma CountyWine Library

Dry CreekKitchen

Bear Republic Brewing Co.

EricksonFine Art Gallery

Zin Restaurant

Shoffeittsoff the Square

STEPHEN& WALKER

Seghesio

PLAZA ST

ATHEON

nlle

Not to scale


15/56

15Downtown Healdsburgwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Segway Tours, (707) 953-3477

www.gwyofhdbug.coTake a fun tour of Healdsburg on a rentedSegway helmets included, $69 per person.

Getaway Adventures

snt ro, (707) 568-3040

www.gtwydntu.co

Healdsburg Sip 'n Cycle: Visit the sites andlearn local wine facts throughout downtownHealdsburg and into the vineyardson this in-novative, healthy tour! Tours include a picnicandbocce.

Options

126 mthon stt, Hdbug

(707) 431-8861, www.optongy.co

Beautiful unique, creations of art for youtowear, use or admire in your home.

LODGING

Healdsburg Innon the Plaza


(707) 433-6991, www.hbugnn.co

Built in 1901, this classic California inn is locatedright on the Healdsburg Plaza. From summercon-certs to holidaytree lightings, the town's best events

takeplacerighthere.Guestsarealsosurroundedbyshops, galleries, tasting rooms and restaurants.

Hotel Healdsburg

25 mthon stt, Hdbug

1-800-889-7188, www.hothdbug.co

Chic, beautifully appointed Hotel Healdsburg is lo-catedonthehistoricsquareandisoneofthepremier

WineCountryluxurylodgingsinallSonomaCounty.

FOOD

Bear Republic Brewing Co.345 Hdbug anu, Hdbug

(707) 433-2337, www.bpubc.co

Sonoma County's premier brewpub, brewery,and restaurant! Real beer, microbrewedandreal cold! Perfect after a day of tasting wine.

Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen

Hot Hdbug, 317 Hdbug anu

(707) 431-0330, www.chp.co

Celebrating Sonoma's pioneering wines and spirits,celebratedChefCharliePalmertakesthebestofour

farm-freshproduceandculinarycradleandinfusesitwithhispassionandtrademarkstyle.

Zin Restaurant & Wine Bar, 344 Cnt stt

rton condd, (707) 473-0946

Dnn d dy, unch mondy-Fdy

Zinfeatures delicious seasonal cuisine withproduce grown especially for them. Wine indus-try locals often gather here for a littlenourishment andshop talk.

Cyrus Restaurant

29 Noth stt, Hdbug

(707) 433-3311, www.cyutunt.coConsistently reviewed as one of THE best restau-rants in all of wine country by Wine Spectator,Gourmet, Food & Wine, Esquire, Wine Enthusiast,and Wall Street Journal. Splurge on the TastingMenu or the Vegetarian Tasting Menu.

Oakville Grocery


(707) 433-3200, www.OkGocy.co

Little CountryStore withoverflowing shelvesand a deli chockfull of handmade, gourmet pic-

nic items, the Oakville Grocery is an absoluteMUST.

THINGSTO DO

Erickson Gallery324 Hdbug anu, Hdbug(707) 431-7073 www.ckonfntgy.coLocal and international artists are featured in the gallery.Works for sale include contemporary paintings, sculpture andworks on paper.

Sonoma County Wine Library139 Pp stt, Hdbug(707) 433-3772, www.onoby.og/wn/A free visit with a wealth of information!The library has more than 5,000 books dealing with all aspectsof making wine, some of themdate even back to 1512!Knowledgeable librarians are on hand to help guide you.

Raven Theater

115 Noth stt, Hdbug(707) 433-6335, www.ntht.ogWhere would we be without performing arts?A big, dark nowhere, that's where. Its thanks to culturaltheaters like the Raven, that publics can experienceentertainment that is beyond a moment's blip of distraction.Enjoy wonderful performancesandexpand your world.

Healdsburg Museum & Historic HomesWalking Tour221 mthon stt, Hdbug(707) 431-3325, www.hdbuguu.ogDont miss FromCabins to Craftsmans: 100Years of Healds-

burgs Architecture on nowthrough June 13, 2010. Sign upfor a guided tour of the town'sunique, architecture and history!

Hand Fan Museum327a Hdbug anu, Hdbug(707) 431-2500, www.hndfnuu.coExplore geography, art and history in this unusualmuseum of actual hand fans from around the world.

Shoffeitts off the Square208 Hdbug anu, Hdbug(707) 433-5556 www.hoffttoffthqu.coThis is a shopping mecca of antiques,

collectibles, local arts and gifts, as well as fine & custom jew-elry. Dont judge a bookby itscover ... the building goes on forever!


16/56


The wines of Kendall-Jackson are known to virtually

every wine lover anywhere in this country and far beyond.

And the historic Sonoma County town of Healdsburg is

rapidly becoming a destination in itself, with a constantly

growing collection of shops, boutiques, some first-class

hotels and restaurants, bars and grills, bed and breakfasts

and small inns, bistros, galleries

and more.

Very near the northwest cornerof the Healdsburg Plaza, the rich

and varied world of Kendall-

Jackson wines seems to shrink

down to an intimate, unhurried

scale that wraps every visitor in

a unique welcome. You are not

intimidated in the least, simply

encouraged to enjoy the wines, the

tasting room, the surroundings.

Guests from all over the world,greeted by the veteran Kendall-

Jackson tasting room staff, soon find themselves discovering

an unexpected dimension of this renowned winery. The

design of the tasting room invokes browsing among wines

and gifts chosen personally by the manager ceramics,

books, glassware, olive oil and more.

Many, if not most, visitors to the tasting room admit that

they have never seen this side of Kendall-Jackson, or K-J as

it is called. Will Alexander, the Tasting Room Manager, loves

what he calls that Eureka look on the faces of guests just

getting acquainted with the more exclusive Kendall-Jackson

wines they will find there.

Sure were Kendall-Jackson, and you can find our

great Vintners Reserve that you know from home, Will

noted. But what thrills me is meeting people who come

here and discover a whole new world of hand-crafted,

limited-production wines.

Visitors can approach wine tasting in two ways: a

selection of four wines, or a

tasting focusing on Stature and

Highland Estates. Employeesare happy to serve the needs of

every guest, whether a wine

aficionado or a complete new-

comer.

Grand Reserve is their super-

lative blend of terroir from key

vineyards, the harmony of ap-

pellation and winemaking skill.

Then there are the bottlings from

Highland Estates which arethe wines that best showcase

Kendall-Jacksons estate properties on mountains and ridges

in Californias cool coastal regions.

Stature, the highest level of Kendall-Jackson winemak-

ing, is produced in very small lots from the finest estate

vineyards.

With its unmatched blend of a welcoming staff, hand-

crafted wines, and its exceptional and easily accessible

location makes the Kendall-Jackson Healdsburg Tasting

Room one of the must-see attractions in this part of the

beautiful Sonoma Wine Country.BY CHARLES NEAVE

Kendall-Jackson Healdsburg Tasting RoomOpn10..to5p..dy

337 HealdsburgAvenue, Healdsburg(707)433-7102www.kj.com

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris,

Riesling, Muscat Canelli, Pinot Noir, Malbec,

Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon

FUN Taste small-production, vineyard-designatedFACT wines available only in the tasting room.

Kendall-Jackson Healdsburg


17/56


Of all the wine bars in all the towns in all the world, I

had to walk into his. Richard Rosenberg looked up at me

from behind the black, semi-circular bar as I settled myself

on one of the padded black leather bar stools.

Richard asked me, Whats on your mind beside your

hat, doll-face? I told him, I havent lived a good life Ive

drank bad wines, worse than you

can imagine. He replied, Well,

sweetheart, youve come the rightjoint here at Prohibition, youll

never have to drink another bad

wine.

I cased the speakeasy, taking

in the brick walls, polished wood

and tables scattered around the

spacious interior. A large flat

screen TV showed Jimmy Cagney

getting tough with some G-man

as twenties music filled the air.The gat sitting front and center on the back bar didnt scare

me I took it as a warning

My Grandfather owned and operated a real speakeasy

during Prohibition and I was always intrigued by his sto-

ries of the fake facades, bootleggers and revelry of the time,

said co-owner Richard Rosenberg when I asked him about

how this came about. We wanted to recreate the incognito

speakeasies of the 1920s and the camaraderie people felt

during the Prohibition era, yet incorporate an authentic

wine country atmosphere. Designed by Kae Rosenberg,

Richards wife and Prohibition co-owner, this snazzy

speakeasy is sure to be a Healdsburg hot spot. The location

cant be beat it sits right in the middle of downtown

Healdsburg, on the corner of Healdsburg Avenue and North

Street. You enter through the wine shop in the front (which

looks like its right out of the 1920s) barn siding and cor-

rugated tin are the backdrop to tasteful wine-related items

and some carefully chosen wine selections. Theres a phone

booth in the corner of the shop

that opens into the back, then

ring-a-ding-ding! you find your-self in an authentic looking,

1920s era speakeasy. This place

has such an authentic 1920s-

1930s feel that you almost

expect to see a group of flappers

and their guys doing the

Charleston in the corner.

A generous selection of hard-

to-find wines and Prohibition

style beers are available by theglass, by the bottle and by the case. Wine cocktails are also

available. If you are a wine-loving dame like me, or a Joe

who likes his wines and beers, this is the joint for you.

There is also a Prohibition Wine Club in the works, where

lucky Joes and dames can get a choice selection of wines

shipped conveniently to their offices or homes.

Take a trip back in time and check out Prohibition in

downtown Healdsburg. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Knock on the phone booth and tell em The Wine Wench

sent me.

I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendshipBY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

Prohibition The Speakeasy Wine Club

11..to9p..dy

340HealdsburgAvenueatNorthStreetinHealdsburg

(707)473-WINE(9463)www.speakeasywineclub.com

FUN Youll need to sneak in The SpeakeasyFACT through the phone booth!

Prohibition The speakeayWine Club

Photos

by

Barbara

Bourne


18/56


Known as the hidden jewel of Mendocinos Duncan

Peak, Topel Winery is a far cry from the well-trodden

highways and byways of Californias most visited wine

country.

A haven of spiritual sustenance for owners Mark and

Donnis Topel, the former sheep ranch and craggy 14-acre

mountain Hidden Vineyard

that produces many of the win-

erys most sought-after wines is aworld away from the chic down-

town address of Topels trendy

and attainable Healdsburg tast-

ing room.

Just off the Plaza and across

the street from the Oakville Gro-

cery, Topel Tasting Room opened

to wine aficionados in September

2008, offering winter discounts

Sunday through Thursday, and

tastings of the winerys Biody-

namic handcrafted wines for a

minimal fee of $5 for a choice of four wines, $8 for a

choice of six and $11 for all nine wines $5 is refundable

with purchase.

Topel wines are gently crafted to reveal a unique evo-

lution of each varietal, as minimalist techniques have

transformed the grapes into world-class, soulful wines that

reflect the steep, rocky soil and foggy climate of their ori-

gin.

Topel Cabernet Sauvignon, Hidden Vineyard is theflagship wine poured alongside a limited-edition Cabernet

Sauvignon from Howell Mountain in Napa, two Pinot Noirs;

two Chardonnays, a Sauvignon Blanc, a white wine blend

called Birdsong, Marks Blend, a Meritage, a Gamay, a Zin-

fandel and a lovely Orange Muscato.

Compact and cozy, the Topel Tasting Room was art-

fully designed with comfort and style as commanding

elements in the details of its

copper countertops, sleek black

fixtures and cherry wood libraryseating area with digital

slideshow of the compelling

vineyard cycle.

A snug and attractive estate

room tasting area off the main

room is a regular hot spot for

blending parties with the Topels

frequently hosting special

events. Estate room tastings are

available for private groups of

four to 12 people by appoint-

ment only, and a fee of $20 per

person is refundable with a minimum purchase of a (six

bottle) half case per person. Private tasting includes all

Topel Flight wines, plus at least two library wines and a se-

lection of cheeses, breads and light appetizers.

As owner/winemakers, Mark and Donnis Topel infuse

a wealth of aesthetic senses and experiences into their

wines. Leading a dual life, Mark Topel is a prominent

criminal defense attorney handling some of this countrys

most complex criminal and civil litigation.BY FRANCES RIVETTI

Topel Tasting Room

Opn11..to7p..dy

125 Matheson Street, Healdsburg

(707)433-4116www.topelwines.comwww.facebook.com/topelwinery

Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Gamay, Meritage,

SuperTuscan Blend, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc,

Chardonnay,White Wine Blend and Orange Muscato

FUNTopelpublishesacalendareveryyearTopel Wine TailsFACT a benefit for the Healdsburg Animal Shelter.

Topel Tasting Room


19/56


The tasting room at Stephen & Walker Trust Winery is

home to Nancy Walkers celebrated, limited production

wines. Some of the most awarded and praised wines in

Sonoma, her familys tasting room is just a couple of hun-

dred feet from Healdsburgs historic plaza. Its also midway

between two first-class hotels, surrounded by restaurants

and, being open daily, offers both

the locals and visitors an oppor-

tunity to get up close andpersonal with these lovely wines.

Situated on Healdsburg Av-

enue, the tasting room offers a

wonderful flight of wines, from

Dry Creek Zinfandel, Petite Sirah

and Sauvignon Blanc to Howell

Mountain Cabernet and more.

Nancys elegant, signature style

abounds in her 90+ point wines,

and her new Muscat Canelli is just delicious, as is the finale

of Portentous, their late harvest Port, which is a won-

derful surprise! Also, expect to sample a small bite with

your flight a nice touch as well.

Their charming tasting room, with its big street-facing

window, long bar, polished floors and high ceiling is a great

complement to the good crystal and fine people behind

the bar pouring.

We are a small, artisanal family-owned winery located

in the heart of the California wine country in Healdsburg.

We started our own label in 2004 and are proud and pas-

sionate to bring you wines made from the remarkablevineyards we tend with our growers in Sonoma, Napa,

Mendocino and Monterey counties, said talented veteran

winemaker Nancy Walker, a graduate of the winemaking

program at the University of California at Davis, and who,

with her husband and partner, Tony Stephen, combined

their names for this adventure.

We craft our wines to showcase the grapes and their

vineyard provenance that, we

trust, also allows for the subtle

nuances of the appellation toshine through. And, with most

less than 650 cases, we can re-

ally control the wines for the

most optimum result.

This philosophy allows us

to create wines that are truly an

expression of our style. Every

bottle of wine we produce has

our commitment and unique

perspective, and that is to bring you the true flavors real-

ized from the terroir. Based on our experience, we believe

each wine is a specific, individual expression of the fruit

from our vineyards and the craft of the winemaker.

No doubt about it, these are rare wines you will seldom

find elsewhere. Which means they are perfect to enjoy on

your visit to Healdsburg, and to take home and share this

discovery with family and friends. Which, after all, is what

savoring wine is all about.

Oh yes, they also stay open until 7 p.m., which means

you can drop by for a guided tasting and then head to din-

ner, most likely with a bottle in hand!BY CHARLES NEAVE

Stephen & Walker Trust Winery

Opn 11 .. to 7 p.. dy243 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg

(707) 431-8749 www.trustwine.com

Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon,Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Port

FUN Six Double Golds, 12 Golds, two Best of Class,FACT and two, 90+ wines and thats just this year!

Stephen & Walker Trust Winery


20/56

20 Westside Road www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Westside Road

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WohlerBridge

MadronaManor

Dragonfly

FarmhouseInn

Shoffeitts Off the Square

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THINGS TO DO

Shoffeitts off the Square

208 Hdbug anu, Hdbug

(707) 433-5556 www.hoffttoffthqu.co

This is a shopping mecca of antiques, collectibles, local artsand gifts, as well as fine & custom jewelry. Dont judge abook by its cover ... the building goes on forever!

Dragonfly, 425 Wtd rod, Hdbug

(707) 433-3739, www.dgonfyfo.co

By appointment only, this is a unique botany and flower-lover's destination. They can custom pick and arrangeflowers.

Wohler Bridge, 9765 Woh rod, Fot

A true Sonoma County landmark, Wohler Bridge is one of thefew old-old-OLD bridges left in California. This steel truss

bridge crosses the Russian River at quite a beautiful spot, too.

LODGING

Madrona Manor, 1001 Wtd rod, Hdbug

1-800-258-4003, www.mdonmno.co

A world-class destination for guests seeking gracious serviceand luxurious accommodations in the heart of wine country.Oh yes... "Rated #1 in Napa & Sonoma"by Travel & Leisure... Need we say more?

Farmhouse Inn, 7871 r rod, Fot

(707) 887-3300, www. Fhouinn.coRepresenting the finest level of Sonoma inns, restaurantsand Spas, sublime guestrooms, farm-fresh food, and seasonalbody treatments come together for one unforgettable experi-ence.

DINING

Farmhouse Inn Restaurant, 7871 r rod, Fot

(707) 887-3300, www.fhounn.co

Tucked into one of the smallest, lovely towns in wine country,the Farmhouse Inn boasts an exquisite restaurant. Each plate

by Chef Litke tells the story of Sonoma's diverse agricultureand artisan producers.

Not to scale

Driving Time: 9 minutes

Fo m Ckto D l montny 1.5 to ad .75 to Twoy >1 to John Ty >1.5

Total 4.75 miles


21/56

21Westside Roadwww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Wines to remember in a place youll never forget

Thats how the folks at Armida Winery describe what theyre

all about. I must agree Ive been a fan for years. Armida

Winery is definitely an unforgettable place!

Located not far from Healdsburg on Westside Road,

Armida Winery sits atop a vineyard-striped knoll. Wind your

way up the driveway and you are

in for a real treat! To start with, the

views from the oak-shadeddeck/picnic area and bocce court

are unforgettable the Russian

River Valley unfolds before your

eyes in a glorious patchwork of

vineyards, trees and hills. The win-

ery itself is a geodesic dome, the

practical reason, according to

Buckminster Fuller, would be that

The sphere uses the doing more

with less principle in that it en-

closes the largest volume of

interior space with the least amount of surface area, thus sav-

ing on materials and cost. The Armida reason is cause it

looks cool.

The tasting room is light, bright and airy feeling, with an

octagonal shaped wooden bar that is staffed by friendly and

knowledgeable servers. PoiZin (Armidas signature Zinfandel)

is everywhere in the artfully merchandised tasting room

casket-shaped cases and numerous displays offer a wide arrayof PoiZin T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and other non-wine good-

ies. A full-sized wooden Indian gazes solemnly at visitors as

they sip, swirl and shop. Against the back wall, a glass-fronted

refrigerator is well stocked with cheeses, hummus and other

picnic fare. This is a really great place to have a picnic!

Armida Winery is a popular stop along the wine road, be-

cause the tasting room is unique, the views are stunning,

these folks really know how to

show visitors a good time and the

wines ROCK! Lets talk about thewines I just had to taste the

2008 PoiZin The wine to die

for. It is a classic Zinfandel,

loaded with aromas and flavors of

ripe blackberry, plum, caramel

and peppery spice, with a big,

rich mouthfeel and long, juicy

finish. The bottle is really cool,

too its black, with a red skull-

and-crossbones label. I also tasted

their 2006 Durrell Vineyard Pinot

Noir, which was another delicious, varietally correct wine.

The nose drew me in, with hints of rose, violet, cherry and

baking spices. These aromas continued as flavors in the oh-

so-silky mouth and on through the finish. Yum!

Be sure to visit this unforgettable place and tell them The

Wine Wench sent you!

Armida Winery is located on Westside Road, just outside

of Healdsburg. Check them out on Facebook or Twitter.BY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

Armida WineryOpn 11 .. to 5 p.. dy

2201 Westside Road, Healdsburg

(707) 433-2222www.armidawinery.com

Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Barbera,Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and PoiZin

FUN Take advantage of the bocce courts overlookingFACT rosebeds, ponds, vineyards and the valley below.

Bring a picnic and enjoy it with Armida wines.

Armida Winery


22/56


John Tyler WinesJust over the border of the Dry Creek Appellation into theheartlands of the Russian River Valley a gem of a brand-new,custom built, family-run tasting room has been over 50 years

in the making.

Take an excursion along the spectacular twists and turns

of Westside Road and you will be amongst the first wine afi-

cionados to set foot through the

wide, double doors of a celebra-

tion in the making.For the Bacigalupi family,

farming these rolling, cool climate

estate vineyards for the past five

decades has been second nature.

Alongside a wealth of shared his-

tory with the closely related Heck

Family, a new and distinctive pre-

mium, small-lot wine label has

been created as a realization of a

long held dream. John Tyler Wines is a three-

generational collaboration of two world-class winemaking

families that is named after John Bacigalupi, who was raised

on the same ranch that he farms today and fourth-generation

winemaker, nephew Tyler Heck. A charming wine country

farm cottage-style tasting room now welcomes visitors to the

ranch to experience a sampling of the two familys out-

standing estate and vineyard designate Pinot Noir, Zinfandel

and Petite Sirah wines.

The Bacigalupi family first gained major recognition dur-

ing the famous 1976 Paris tasting when the 1973 Napa Valley

Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena with premium Baci-

galupi fruit triumphed over many renowned French wines

as undisputed winner, said Katey Bacigalupi. Katey and her

twin sister Nicole were raised within the wine industry and

together with their mother, Pam Bacigalupi, have been the

gentle, guiding force behind the creation of a cozy tasting

room, complete with custom, handcrafted wooden bar, fire-

place and patio seating.

After graduating studies in

enology, viticulture and ag busi-ness at both Fresno State

University and Cal Poly San Luis

Obispo, winemaker, Tyler Heck

traveled the globe to acquire an

extensive knowledge of diverse

wine industry practices and tech-

niques.

Moderate temperatures through

harvest in the Russian River ap-

pellation, bordering Dry Creekallow for the development of

deep, rich flavors and color in a typically lush, likeable Zin,

brimming with wild berry, leather, tobacco and pepper spice

flavors and firm, dry tannins. Soils with a rocky, volcanic,

sandy loam produce bright fruit for Pinot Noir balanced by

minerality and intriguing earth tones.

We plan to offer vineyard tours and wine club special

events, explained Bacigalupi, but the highlight of a visit to

this new kid on the block will undoubtedly be the unlocking

of the family secrets in tasting the meeting of minds of deep-

rooted tradition and the winemakers boutique mastery.BY FRANCES RIVETTI

John Tyler Winesby Bacigalupi VineyardOpn cunty by ppontnt ony, 10 .. to 5 p..


(707) 473-0123 johntylerwines.com

Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah

FUN Another John Tyler Jr. was the 10th PresidentFACT of the United States and the first president

to be born after the adoption of the U.S. Constitution.

Mention this story for a complimentary library wine tasting.

by Bacigalupi

Vineyard


23/56


Mill CreekStroll up to the rustic tasting room at Mill Creek Vine-yards and Winery on a sunny day in Dry Creek Valley, andyoull be tempted to kick off your shoes and socks and dip

your toes into the refreshing blue waters of a millpond.

Although tempted, youd be rather satisfied grabbing a

bottle of the winerys stunning

double gold collection of award

winning wines and then finding

yourself a comfy seat next to theworking water wheel and pond.

Beyond and up into the hills

above the 36-year-old winerys red-

wood tasting room, an upper

terraced picnic area provides spa-

cious seating and superb views,

spanning the Kreck family-owned

vineyards for as far as the eye can

see.

In fact, What you see is what

you taste, said tasting room man-

ager Kim Collins, who frequently

pours according to the tastes and

preferences of her first customers

of the day. We dont believe in

opening the same offerings each

day, she explained. If you are a

big Zin fan, Ill likely pour in that particular direction.

No appointments are necessary to pop into Mill Creek.First time visitors often become wine club members, join-

ing in the creative winemaking process at custom blending

parties and memorable food and wine affairs. We get a lot

of first timers here, said Collins. We can be your first or

final stop along Westside Road, depending upon your di-

rection of approach.

A walking vineyard tour and

tasting with barrel samplings

takes place every Saturday at

11 a.m. Reservations are requiredfor this activity and should be

made by calling the tasting room

before 10 a.m on the Saturday of

choice. Space is limited.

Sonoma County Harvest Fair

gold medal and double gold

medal winning 2006 Cabernet

Sauvignon Kreck Family Vine-

yards bursts with blackberry jam

and leathery spice, captivating

fans of the valleys big, bold reds,

along with a 2006 Zinfandel Dry

Creek Valley, another multiple

medal winner at the Harvest Fair

as well as the San Francisco and

Pacific Rim International wine

competitions. Prefer a white? You

wont be disappointed at Mill Creek tasting best of class

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewrztraminer.BY FRANCES RIVETTI

Mill Creek Vineyards & Winery

Opn 10 .. to 5 p.. dy1-877-349-2121 www.millcreekwinery.com


Jut two to th nut d fo th cnt of town, fo th outh

tk Hwy 101 to th Cnt Hdbug xt. Tun ft t 2nd ght onto

m stt tht bco Wtd rod. T tt o on to

m Ck Wny on you ght. Fo th noth tk 101 to th Wtd

rod xt. Tun ght t th botto of th p onto Wtd rod. T

bout 1 to m Ck Wny on you ght.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel,

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Gewrztraminer,Merlot and Dessert Wine

FUN The working wheel and millpond of Mill CreekFACT Vineyards and Winery Tasting Room wasfashioned as a replica from vintage photographs of severallong lost mills along the Mill Creek Road area in whichowners, the Kreck family were raised.

Vineyards

& Winery


24/56


How does the idea of a picnic and Pinot tickle your

fancy, shared in a private, peaceful setting outside of a beau-

tiful little redwood barn located in one of the most idyllic

spots of the inner Dry Creek Valley?

If its a taste of quiet caliber and casual luxury that youre

pining for in a truly outstanding day trip to the Dry Creek

appellation, search no further

than a well appointed stop at De

La Montanya Winerys TastingRoom in its Felta Creek Vine-

yard, some three miles and a

short, five minute drive south of

central Healdsburg on secluded

Foreman Lane.

If you are looking to taste

some of the most unique red

wine in Sonoma County, you are

in the right place, said Dennis

De La Montanya, whose 16 dif-

ferent wines have yielded an

impressive fleet of top notch, gold medal wins at Sonoma

Countys prestigious annual Harvest Fair.

Were small, quaint, hard to find and well worth the

effort for the dedicated day tripper, said De La Montanya,

one of Dry Creek Valleys most celebrated hosts and cham-

pion of understated winemaking mastery.

For each of De La Montanyas wines meticulously

crafted by sister-in-law Tami Collins is bottled from the pick

of the crop of the best of the winerys premium estate-

grown, hand selected grapes from some 15 varieties that

span five distinctive appellations of ideal soils and micro-

climates.

Visit the bucolic barn style tasting room set amidst the

winerys Felta Creek Vineyard in hidden Dry Creek Valley

and discover the secrets of De La Montanyas winemaking

success. Its the unmistakable spirit, charm and fine atten-

tion to simple detail apparent in

and around this tidy, tucked

away property. Some three acresof Zinfandel and one acre of

Primitivo surround a vintage

Golden Delicious apple orchard

that provides a leafy, shaded

canopy over inviting lawns and

patios, rose-tangled arbors, a

fire pit, outdoor pizza oven,

pathways and a bocce court.

Fine winemaking may be se-

rious business, not least whenproducing 4,500 cases that

range from offerings of just 25

to 250 cases per year, depending upon the varietal. Yet De

La Montanya and his tight-knit winery team take equal

pride in their shared dedication to the art of a laugh and

the craft of good living.

De La Montanya has one of the areas largest wine clubs

with nearly 2,000 members with only a limited number

of spots available. How can this not be fun? asked De La

Montanya, whose limited edition wines include a rather

cheeky range of pin-up wines for and featuring embold-

ened wine club members. BY FRANCES RIVETTI

De La Montanya Vineyards & Winery

Opn Fdy-sundy, 11 .. to 5:30 p..mondy-Thudy, by pponnt ony

(707) 433-3711 www.dlmwine.com

999 Foreman Lane, Healdsburg

Gewrztraminer, Viognier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel,Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo, Tempranillo and unique blends!

FUNSeveral rock star special signature bottlingsFACT for bands like Journey and Whitesnake haveraised thousands of dollars for charities.

Mention this article and receive aspecial taste of Whitesnake Zinfandel

De La MontanyaVineyards

& Winery


25/56


When I visit Twomey in the town of Healdsburg,

thoughts of flight come to mind. Maybe its the almost or-

ganic design of the winery itself, with a wall of glass that

runs the length of the winery and looks down and across

the Russian River Valley with its hundreds of acres of per-

fect rows of grapes.

Perhaps it begins with the

water feature across from the en-

trance as you walk down thewinding path to the front, possi-

bly the roof that reminds me of

the wing of a huge bird, a hawk

perhaps, made of light wood. Or

the indoor-outdoor effect inside

that takes you seamlessly from

the tasting room to the curves

and plantings of the patio. What

I do know for sure is that it all

comes together and makes visit-

ing a sensory experience on so

many levels, from design, to the vines, to the wines.

Twomey Cellars has two tasting rooms, you need to

know that right away. One is here in Sonoma County, the

other in Napa Valley just a few miles south of Calistoga. But

the wines are the same at each stylish (and completely dif-

ferent looking) facility. The other thing to note is that they

are part of the fabled Silver Oak family, known around the

world for their Cabernet Sauvignon. As they explain,

Twomey is an evolution of our creativity and innovation

with varietals other than Cabernet Sauvignon.To that end they have made a strong and continuing

commitment to making exceptional Merlot, Pinot Noir and

Sauvignon Blanc. They currently offer four Pinot Noirs,

from vineyards not just in the Russian River Valley, but also

in Anderson Valley to the north, Sonoma Coast to the west

and, to the south, Santa Barbara County. They also, for the

past two years, have been making one crisp, fresh white

wine, the Napa Valley Sauvi-

gnon Blanc, using grapes from

their 12 acre vineyard at theCalistoga winery.

For each wine, clones, cli-

mate, trellising, soil and many

other factors have all been cho-

sen to create the finest example

of the varietals possible, all

crafted by Winemaker, Ben

Cane and Director of Winemak-

ing Daniel Baron. Both of them

are seasoned industry veterans

whose philosophy and skill per-

fectly match that of the family.

Tasting these wines, from different areas, is a revelation,

and no where better to do it than at this beautiful site. As

Tasting Room Manager Romana Behrens said lately, The

views here truly are spectacular, the building and tasting

room decidedly modern, comfortable and friendly, the

wines world class. We hope youll visit us to taste, perhaps

picnic, while you look out over our beautiful valley.

One additional note is that the winery offers tours

Monday through Friday; Saturday and Sunday by ap-pointment. BY CHARLES NEAVE

Twomey Cellarssu: mondy-study, 10 .. to 5 p..

sundy, 11 .. to 5 p..Wnt: mondy-study, 10 .. to 4 p..

sundy, 11 . to 4 p..


1-800-505-4850 www.twomeycellars.com

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Merlot

FUN Twomey Cellars is owned by the

FACT Duncan family of Silver Oak Cellars.

Twomey Cellars


26/56

26 Gateway to Alexander Valley www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Alexander Valley

THINGS TO DO

Bosworth & Son General Store

21060 Gy anu, Gy

(707) 857-3463, www.bowothndon.co

Once a mortuary and even a buggy store thebuggy paint still stains the floor Bosworth &

Son General Store is an old-fashioned storemeeting the Western-inspired needs of todayscustomer.

Healdsburg Ridge Hiking Trail

enty gt t abn Wy nd Bd Pth.

(soy, no pt owd).

One of Sonomas favorite nature preserves, takethe Ridge Hiking Trail to the Fox Pond Runand Fox Pond Overlook. A wonderful place toget some fresh air and exercise in wine country!

Veterans Memorial Beach,

13839 Hdbug anu, Hdbug, (707) 433-1625

Truly one of Healdsburgs most favorite river side beaches! Bring a

picnic, kick off your shoes, or even borrow an inner tube. Nothingto do here but relax, breathe deeply, and listen to the river roll on by.

FOOD

Jimtown Store, 6706 Hghwy 128, Hdbug

(707) 433-1212, www.jtown.co

Literally tucked into the vineyards in the Jimtown store. For morethan 100 years, Jimtown has provided Healdsburg with fresh bakedgoods, hot coffee, and local products. Linger over the eclectic Ameri-can antiques and old-fashioned toys.Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria

21021 Gy anu, Gy

(707) 814-0111, www.dopzz.co

Diavola is not only a great stop for picnic items such as house-curedsalumi and olives but also features traditional Italian cooking in-cluding gourmet pizzas from brick ovens and delicicious pastas.

Diavola uses the most locally available ingredients combined withcenturies old recipes.Hoffman House Restaurant

21712 Gy a, Gy

(707) 857-3264, www.hoffnhougy.co

Built more than 100 years ago by the Hoffman family, this cafeserves healthy breakfast and lunch with striking views of the ma-

jestic mountains nearby. Seasonal dinners, call first.

LODGING

Grape Leaf Inn, 539 Johnon stt, Hdbug

(707) 433-8140, www.gpfnn.co

A picturesque Queen Anne Victorian bed and breakfast, the GrapeLeaf Inn seamlessly blends modern decor with timeless antiques.Gracious staff provide the best hospitality in this relaxing, roman-

tic environment.Belle de Jour Inn, 16276 Hdbug anu, Hdbug

(707) 431-9777, www.bdujounn.co

A single-story Italiante built in the 1870s, Belle du Jour nestles onsix acres of hilltop overlooking rolling hilltops and valleys.Hope Merril & Hope Bosworth B&B

21253 Gy anu, Gy

(707) 857-3356, www.hop-nn.co

Once an early stage-coach stop, these now two strikingly restoredQueen Anne Craftsman homes welcome you with open arms.Truly where wine and romance intertwine!Geyserville Inn, 21714 Gy anu, Gy

(707) 857-4343, www.Gyinn.co

First class accomodations at more affordable pricesin the heart of wine country!

CHIANTIR

D.

101

ASTIRD.

DUTCHER

CR

EEK

RD

GEYSERV

I

LLE

R D

.

CANYO

N

SILVER

OAK

MEEKER VINEYARDS

.

HEA L D SBURG

AVE

SIMIGRO V E

CHIQUITA

DRYCREEK

LYT

TONSPRINGS

Geyserville Inn\Hoffman House Restaurant

101

Hope Merrill/Hope Bosworth House

JimtownStore

Bosworth & Son General Store

Diavola Pizzeria

128

PARKLAN

DFARM

S

Healdsburg RidgeHiking Trail

SAUSAL

VINTNERS

SIGNATURES

FIELD

STONE

ALEXAN

DERVAL

.RD.

LYTTON

Only an hour north of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Alexander Valley is leaps and bounds away from

any hustle and bustle. Visitors looking for a more relaxed, authentic wine country experience, will

be happy here. Brimming with hospitality, this stunning corner of the world is home to 40 winer-

ies, each boasting distinctive, unassuming wines.

Gateway to

Not to scale

Driving Time: 36 minutes

Fo s Okto mk 4 to vntn sgntu 4 to su 4 to Fd ston 3 to s 8

Total 21 miles


27/56

27Gateway to Alexander Valleywww.WineCountryThisWeek.com

It was more than 75 years ago when Isabelle Simi

Haigh announced to her work crew that she wanted them

to convert a huge, unused wine vat into a unique tasting

room. Since then, Simi Winery has built a reputation for

offering visitors not just tastes of superb wines but com-

fortable and unique settings in which to try the wines. In

the warm visiting days of sum-

mer, tours often begin in the

redwood grove that shelters thetasting room. The grove also

serves as the focal point for

events and for special food and

wine explorations.

This summer many Simi

guests may be seen, heads raised,

making gentle sniffing sounds

and remarking that they think

they smell pizzas. And they are

right. Each Friday 2 p.m. till 6p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m.

till 4 p.m., the redwood grove is transformed into an ex-

otic sort of pizza cafe, offering a menu of exotic pizzas

created by Chef Eric Lee. The pizzas are made in the East

Coast thin-crust style, but the toppings are all strictly local,

with generous use of fresh-from-the-farm greens that Eric

selects for the pizza he calls Forage. Even the Italian

sausage (salsicce) is made by Eric in the winery kitchen.

As delicious as the pizzas are, the winery staff eagerly

points out that they taste even more tempting when con-

sumed in the setting of the redwood grove, and nearly

everyone involved with the winery loves to tell the story of

this historic family and the teenage girl who kept the win-

ery operating profitably when both her father and her

uncle died unexpectedly within a few weeks of each other

and left her to carry on. Even the stones used in con-

struction of the waterfall in the grove have a story to tell,

since all the materials that went into the creation of this

idyllic spot were recycled from

earlier structures or were natu-

ral stones found on the propertyas land was cleared for vine-

yards over the years. The long

communal tables where wine

fanciers from everywhere sit

down as perfect strangers and

rise as friends trading their own

recipes for special pizzas, were

crafted from staves of old fer-

mentation tanks.

Many pizza lovers swear thatthe only wine to consume with

their favorite pizzas, no matter which crust is made or

what toppings are sprinkled over the top, is Cabernet

Sauvignon, The hearty, beautifully balanced 2006 Alexan-

der Valley Cabernet and the 2005 Reserve Cabernet just

released by Simi Winery will only reinforce that belief, and

the more daring suggest that they have found a new com-

bination to savor, quaffing the gold medal winning 2009

Sauvignon Blanc with the Forage and Sausage pizzas. This

trio of wines are available in the tasting room, so while the

pizzas bake, visitors may want to sample these three ele-

gant newcomers.

Simi WineryOpn 10 .. to 5 p.. dy

16275 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg

(707) 473-3232www.simiwinery.com

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay,

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon

FUN Simi Winery tasting room was originallyFACT made from a huge wine vat.

Simi Winery


28/56


The name is synonymous with some of the finest

Cabernet Sauvignon ever made. Since it was founded in

1972, bottles of Silver Oak Cellars extraordinary wines

have been coveted by wine lovers and collectors on every

continent, and with good reason. What they craft are

two wines and two wines only: an Alexander Valley

Cabernet, the other from Napa

Valley.

Both wines are aged for ex-tended periods in American

Oak barrels and then in the

bottle before release. But per-

haps the feature that has most

endeared them to consumers is

that, while they can be aged in

the cellar for years, they are also

ready to drink upon release. It

is deft juggling that goes back

to the beginning, when Ray

Duncan and Justin Meyer began

the journey that came to help

define Silver Oak Cellars.

As director of winemaking Daniel Baron says, For its

time, Ray and Justins idea particularly the length of time

in bottle was almost revolutionary for California. But he

also emphasizes that creating a drinkable upon release

wine begins in the vineyard. The fact that the wine is

blended before it goes in the barrel is a major component

as well.

You can visit the French chateau-like facility and tast-ing room in Geyserville to discover this bottled magic.

There are vineyards on three sides, the trademark white

water tower on the top of a hill, a manicured lawn and

a tall archway that leads into a traditional and spacious

courtyard. The winery is a welcome blend of sophisti-

cated and stylish, friendly and relaxed. Just sitting in the

courtyard near the fountain with a glass of their Caber-

net is a vacation in itself. Or go

into the tasting room, with its

view through glass doors intothe temperature-controlled cel-

lar where the library wines and

large format bottles are kept.

Many are available only at the

winery and its a treasure trove

for collectors looking for a rare

vintage or a 3.0 liter (or larger)

bottle for a special celebration.

Our Geyserville winery is

off the beaten track, but when

you arrive you feel like youve

found one of the areas hidden

gems. Guests often tell us they go out of their way to visit

the tasting room because they know theyll get the ulti-

mate Sonoma County experience when they arrive.

The light-filled tasting room where everyone gets

personal attention features a bar designed to resemble

the American Oak barrels that are the signature of Silver

Oak wines. Like the Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvi-

gnon itself, Geyserville is friendly and approachable and

we would love to have you experience it for yourself.BY CHARLES NEAVE

Silver Oaksu: mondy-study, 9 .. to 5 p..

sundy, 11 .. to 5 p..

Wnt: mondy-study, 9 .. to 4 p..sundy, 11 .. to 4 p..

24625 Chianti Road, Canyon Road Exit, Geyserville

1-800-273-8809 www.silveroak.com

Cabernet Sauvignon

FUN Silver Oak has been family owned since its

FACT establishment in 1972 and has been makingonly Cabernet Sauvignon since that time.

Silver Oak


29/56


If going to the bank gives you the blues these days, pre-

pare to have that mindset turned upside down. After a visit

to The Meeker Vineyard Tasting Room, you will never again

think about financial institutions in the same way.

Meekers tasting room is located in a historic Geyserville

bank building that was built in 1903. The original teller

windows, the tiled floor, even the

old vault are all a part of one of

Sonoma Countys most cele-brated and unique tasting rooms.

But dont expect to encounter a

stuffy bankers attitude here. This

also happens to be one of the

most unaffected and light-hearted

wine tasting experiences you will

ever encounter. The Meeker

family takes pride in their down-

to-earth approach to wine. With

the soulful sound of blues waft-

ing in the air, this tasting room just naturally emits a relaxed

vibe that other tasting rooms have to strive to achieve.

As Lucas Meeker relates, Weve been in this business

for over twenty years. These days so many wineries attempt

to portray themselves as unpretentious. We dont have to

try. Its just simply who we are. Given that their original

tasting room was located in a forty-six-foot-tall tepee, its

not surprising that this affable winemaking family has never

been accused of putting on airs.

In the late eighties nobody around here had a tasting

room. When people started showing up at our winerywanting to taste our wines, we were surprised. What was

going on here? Our winemaker at the time bought the tepee

and we decided to open up a tasting room. But when the

old bank building became available, we jumped on it. It

has so much character, a little quirky perhaps, but very

much who we are.

The Meeker family prescribes to the old adage, do one

thing and do it well. They make

red wine...big, lush, proud red

wines that are perfect examplesof what good fruit can produce

in the hands of great winemak-

ers. At the tasting room bar,

planed from a California Oak

branch that had fallen on their

property, guests are treated to the

red wines that have made this

winery famous Cabernet

Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Mer-

lot. (You can also try a Pinot

from Lucas own label, Lucas J. Cellars.) But dont expect

the big price tags that usually go hand in hand with these

varietals. Meeker wines are exceptionally approachable

cost-wise. It is no surprise that The Meeker Vineyard can

boast a wine club membership of more than sixteen hun-

dred loyal followers. We are really proud of our concept.

We pour big reds and play the blues. Those are the two

things we love and people seem to agree with us.

Expect to sample from five to six of their twenty differ-

ent red wines. If were having fun, we usually open even

more! says Lucas. And fun is something that is never inshort supply at Meeker Vineyard. BY RONDA GIANGRECO

The Meeker Vineyard10:30 .. to 6 p.. dy, xcpt jo hody

21035 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville

(707) 431-2148 www.meekerwine.com

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc,Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec, Zin, Petite Sirah,

Syrah, Grenache and Chardonnay

FUN The tasting room is in the 100+ year oldFACT Bank of Geyserville, with the original vault!

The Meeker Vineyard


30/56


Being a grape grower isnt as romantic as you may think

it is. Basically, a grape grower is a farmer, dancing to the

capricious tunes of Mother Nature and the economic cli-

mate as well. Many grape growers dont have wineries of

their own and rely on local wineries to buy their grapes.

Thats where Vintners Signatures comes in. They have

formed a unique partnership

with local grape growers. This

partnership showcases the

magic that happens when you

combine the right grape grower,

variety and location with an ex-

perienced winemaking team.

Located on Highway 128 in

the picturesque Alexander Val-

ley, Vintners Signatures is a very

special place. The tasting room

is expansive, airy and well lit,with a large window, inviting a

view of the cellar and inner

workings of the winery. The

long tasting bar spans the back

of the room, providing plenty of space for visitors to

relax and enjoy the delicious wines (more on the wines

in a minute). Dark wood display racks offer a taste-

ful array of non-wine items, such as glassware, clothing

and wine-related books. A large picnic area is in theworks for the back of the building and a smaller picnic

area is planned for just outside the front doors.

The staff at Vintners Signatures is friendly, enthusi-

astic and knowledgeable. In fact, winemakers Mike

Draxton and Randy Meyer are close at hand and happy

to chat with visitors about their wines, winemaking and

the grape growers that they partner with.

Lets talk about the wines

I had the pleasure of tasting a

few during my visit and they

were all fantastic! The follow-

ing were my favorites:

2009 El Roy Sauvignon

Blanc, Dry Creek Valley $15:

One sniff and you know youre

in for a treat! Mouthwatering

aromas of grapefruit, lemon-

grass, cut hay and green herbs

lure the taster into a crisp, juicy mouthful of consistent

flavors. Yum!

2006 El Roy Proprietors

Red Alexander Valley $18: El

Roys unique blend of classic Bordeaux varietals is com-

bined with traditional hillside-grown Rhone varieties to

form a dark, rich wine with flavors of black currant, straw-

berry and spice.

Vintners Signatures is all about great wines and partner-ship. Dont miss it! BY SUE STRAIGHT, THE WINE WENCH

Vintners Signatures

Vintners SignaturesOpn 10:30 .. to 5 p.. dy4001 Highway 128, Geyservillewww.vintnerssignatures.com

(707) 857-3300

Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Malbec,

Proprietors Red (blend),

Old Vine Zinfandel,

Soon to be added Pinot Noir

and Cabernet SauvignonFUN Bring in a copy of this article and becomeFACT a Wine Club member for a day.

(Valid for one person in a group only.)


31/56


Sausal Winery in Alexander Valley no world-famous

architect built it, no priceless art collection is housed in it,

and no sumptuous gardens with waterfalls and statuary are

to be found in it. What visitors will find at Sausal is the

Demostene family, who has lived and worked in the Alexan-

der Valley for generations and who make some of

Californias finest Zinfandel wines.

The family purchased the

Sausal Ranch (named for thecreek that flows through it into

the Russian River) in 1956. The

next generation of Demostenes

founded the winery in 1973, in

large part to take advantage of the

existence of Zinfandel grape vines

that had been producing high

quality grapes since 1877. Thats

not a typographical error, and youcan prove that for yourself when

you visit the winery to taste living

history Zinfandel wines that are made from vines that are

50, 90 and 130+ years old.

Follow Hwy. 128 along the eastern edge of the Alexan-

der Valley to the winery, then down the winerys driveway

to a rustic, barn-red wooden building with a trellised porch

that houses the tasting room. Simple, like the rest of the

winery, the tasting room is not a mini-mall teeming with

sonoma county fall/winter 2010

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