nor cal edition - september 18, 2009

8/14/2019 Nor Cal Edition - September 18, 2009

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winecountrythisweek.com E A S Y - TO - F O L L O W W I N E R Y M A PS S E P T E M B E R 1 8 , 2

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

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LEDSON WINERY& VINEYARDS

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TASTING ROOM

SIMI WINERPAGE 48

OBRIEN

ESTATEPAGE 46

ST. FRANCIS WINERY

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALSPAGE 28

WINEMAKER PROFILE:

WILLIAM HILL ESTATEPAGE 26

V I N E Y A R D , W I N E M A K I N GA N D G U E S T E X P E R I E N C E

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A W I N N I N G C O M B I N A T I O N

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEE


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More than 1,000 distribution points Read by more than 2 million people annually

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707-938-3494 Fax707-938-3674

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

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EDITORIAL Michelle Baker

CONTRIBUTORS Carole & Daniel Ehrler

Diana Greenwood

Jenna HansenKathleen Thompson Hill

Richard Paul Hinkle

Les Maher

Charles Neave

Nan Reiley

Frances Rivetti

Jeffry Ross

Sue Straight, WineWench

Abigail Zimmerman

S A L E SGeneral Sales Mike Giangreco

707-938-3734, [email protected]

Sonoma, Mendocino MargaretVillarreal

and Lake Counties 707-338-2894, [email protected]

Napa Valley RoseAnn Trzesniewski

707-334-1930, [email protected]

Livermore, Lodi, Mike Giangreco

and Sierra Foothills 707-938-3734, [email protected]

Monterey Bay, Central Coast, Whitney Brem

Santa Cruz Mountains 831-596-4945, [email protected]

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ON THE COVERFlora Springs The Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

WINE COUNTRY NEWS

Wine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-19

Wineology by Len Napolitano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

SPECIAL COUPONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33-47

St. Helena Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39

Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Napa Valley Fine Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45

SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-63

Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-51

Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Santa Rosa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Geyserville Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Healdsburg Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-63

Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Glen Ellen Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Sonoma Plaza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64-65

Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

LIVERMORE VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Livermore Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

LODI/WOODBRIDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Lodi/Woodbridge Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

NORTHERN CENTRAL COAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-73

Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Carmel Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Salinas Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

SIERRAS/FOOTHILLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Sierra Foothills Wineries Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75-86

S E P T E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 0 9 I S S U E 3 8 V O L U M E 2 8

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INEMAKER

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Black Stallion WineryBlack StallionWinery

Ledson Winery & VineyardsLedson Winery & Vineyards

Flora Springs The RoomFlora Springs The Room

TASTING

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TABLE OF CONTENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

6 www.WineCountryThisWeek.co

SimiWinerySimiWinery

Ralf Holdenried,

William Hill Estate

Ralf Holdenried,

William Hill Estate


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Seethe rightsideof theNapaValley wineries map onpage44-45



WINE CLUB

OF THE WEEK BLACK STALLION WINERYWINECLUBDETAILS

Once your membership is activated youllreceive half a dozen two-bottle shipments

every other month along with the chanceto enjoy many membership only benefits.It costs absolutely nothing to join and youmay cancel your membership at any timeafter your second shipment.

The Black Stallion Mixed Club

Experience the entire range of wines inthe portfolio. Every other month (for atotal of six shipments per year), memberswill receive two bottles chosen by theBlack Stallion winemaker. Average ship-ment costs approximately $45 to $80 (plustax and shipping).

The Black Stallion White Wine Club

Every other month members receive twobottles of the winerys famous whites,which include the Napa ValleyChardonnay, a crisp and refreshing PinotGrigio, and the (eeeever-so-slightly) barrel-aged Sauvignon Blanc.

The Black Stallion Red Wine Club

For red wine lovers this is the club. Everyother month (for a total of six shipmentsper year), members receive two bottleschosen by the winemaker. Average ship-ment costs $60 to $100 (plus tax and ship-ping).

Members of either wine club also receive:

Winery exclusive wines delivered sixtimes a year at 20% off winery prices.

25% discount on reorders of a case ormore of your current club shipmentfor 30 days after receipt.

20% discount on all current releasewines and gift items through the

tasting room and website.

Complimentary tastings in the tastingroom for members and three guestsper visit.

Access to the members-only Club Room.

Invitations to members-only eventsand parties.

Priority access to new releases andclub-only wines.

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4089 Silverado Trail - Napa(707) 253-1400 - www.blackstallionwinery.com

E

nviably positioned as one of the Napa Valleys newest and most dynamic wineries,

Black Stallion Winery, over on the Silverado Trail, crafts wines that are meant to

reflect the unique characteristics of California terrain, climate and soil and themultitude of unique microclimates as well as the famed winemaking expertise found in

the Napa Valley.Committed to creating ultra-premium wines reflecting the elegance and complexity of

the Oak Knoll District. Black Stallion wines are only available at the winery or through

the website and wine club. As a mark of this exclusivity, Black Stallion Winerys produc-tion remains at only 3,800 cases.

Built on property that once was home to stables and a small local race track, this new

winery was custom built to showcase the wines of this impressive newcomer. To rein-force the equine imagery of the one-time home to champion horses, a 1,200-pound, 10-

foot bronze horse by David Spellerberg, a well-respected Golden State sculptor, rears upatop a fountain in the front of the grand stone winery. It is dramatically situated at the

end of the olive tree-lined drive guarded in the front by two large palm trees.

The winerys expansive tasting room, with a towering ceiling, polished floors and lotsof wood, a majestic stone fireplace to one side and to the other a glass-fronted private

chamber that looks into the barrel room, always seems to be buzzing with activity.

Directly outside the tasting room is a large open space topped with the winerys trade-mark wooden pergolas, architectural elements that will remind you quite graphically of

half-barrels. This is a theme first showcased in the front of the building and one thatprovides a very wine country-oriented symmetry to the overall plan.

Wines poured at the Black Stallion Winery tasting bar might well include a Pinot

Grigio and a subtle Chardonnay, a well-balanced Sauvignon Blanc, on through a dryRos and into the red wines: a Merlot with berry fruit notes, a complex Syrah and

Cabernet Sauvignon, to their one sweet wine, a luscious, juicy, sensory intense Muscat

that is available only in the half bottle (375 ml) size. All in all, the wine tasting menunumbers about eight different pourings, all offered in appropriate crystal stemware to

make the experience even more satisfying.


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINE COUNTRY NEW

Over 250 Quality WinesUnder $25 at Wine Garage

Hidden next to a dilapidated 40s-era former filling station on Highway 2

Calistoga lies the Wine Garage. A unique wine shop in Napa Valley that retails

wine in the store under $25. Sound crazy? Its true. And the proprietors Todd Joy Miller, have hit on a niche in the Valley that had been very missed by the lo

there.

There are a lot of winemakers here that cant afford to drink the wine t

make says Miller. Thats crazy, yes, but who can afford to drink a $65 bottle w

dinner every night?

Many people miss The Wine Garage on the first try upvalley, but the searc

well worth it. Miller stocks wine from all of Californias wine growing regi

including fifty Napa selections and 40 from Sonoma County. When he first sou

out buying the initial inventory, I enlisted a local farmer buddy and his 15-

box van and off we went all over California hunting down the deals. I tried to s

out the small producers who didnt have distributors so I could pass the sav

on to my customers. And Miller did just that. His store is stocked with hquality juice all under $25 and all are unique. Most labels in the shop are un

ognizable but all pass the same test; everything passes over Millers lips before

makes a buy. If I dont love it, I dont buy it, period. Sometimes I will taste ov

hundred wines in one day, load up the truck and haul it up to Calistoga, unl

at the store, and maybe I will crawl in bed by 3 a.m. Needless to say my bu

bowed out of the deal after their second trip. I initially recruited him on a hey

go wine tasting in Santa Barbara until he realized how much work it entailed. P

guy, he had to be at the farm at 5 in the morning.

It is all worth it. Millers customers love him. He has a unique ability to he

verbal description of a customers favorite wine and translate that into a rec

mendation for sometimes a third of the cost. I have people all over the coun

that use me as their local wine shop. I ship right to their door and the cost of shipping is a drop in the bucket compared to what they save on the cost of

wine.

Miller gets deals on Napa wine too. I have winemakers from small wine

stop in every week saying I have something that will fit into the store, if they o

have 15 or 25 cases of an end-of-vintage wine I am the perfect outlet for the

So head up to the Wine Garage and check out the best deals in the Valle

1020 Foothill Blvd (Hwy 29), Calistoga, CA 94515. For more information,

(707) 942-5332. You can also check out the website at winegarage.net.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK


ONGOINGFum Bistro & Bar Happy HourNapa, Spirit & snack specials, wine & beer, 4-6pm707-257-1999, www.fumebistro.com

ONGOING WEEKENDS EXCEPT 4THWEEKENDWine Component Tasting Seminarat Merryvale VineyardsSt. Helena, 10:30am-12:30pm, $20, free/club members707-963-7777, www.merryvale.com

EVERY 4TH WEEKENDWine & Food Pairing Seminarat Merryvale Vineyards10:30am-12:30pm, $20, free/club members, St. Helena707-963-7777, www.merryvale.com

ONGOING THURSDAYS & FRIDAYSWine & Food PairingsPeju ProvinceWinery, Rutherford, 11am, Wine & Cheese Pairing1pm: Wine & Tapas Pairing, www.peju.com, 800-446-7358

ONGOINGPrivate ToursGoosecross Cellars, Yountville, $25, RSVP 707-944-1986, www.goosecross.com

ONGOINGEpicurean ExplorationsGoosecross Cellars, Yountville, Minimum 6 people, $95/3-course lunch$135/5-course lunch, RSVP 707-944-1986, www.goosecross.com

FIRST FRIDAY THROUGH OCTOBERCheers! St. HelenaDowntown St. Helena,Taste wine & enjoy live music while strolling! 6-9pm$5/taste, $35/nightly pass, ww w.cheerssthelena.com

ONGOING WEEKENDSReserve Roomat Markham VineyardsEnjoy reserve and library wines by candlelight in an historic stone cellar$15pp, 11am-4pm, www.markhamvineyards.com, 707-963-5292

ONGOINGNapaValley Opera House1030 Main Street, Napa, 707-226-7372, www.nvoh.org Sept 7: Dr. John & The Neville Brothers Sept 12: Zydeco Dance with Jeffery Broussard &The Creole Cowboys Sept 18: HawaiianTropical Nights Sept 19: Chanticleer Sept 25: Lavay Smith CD Release Concert Oct 3: Gala 2009 featuring Pink Martini

ONGOINGLive at theLincolnTheaterYountville, 707-944-1300, www.lincolntheater.com

Sept 9: Glenn Miller Orchestra Sept 12: Buckwheat Zydeco Sept 18: Jay andThe Americans Oct 10:The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular

ONGOINGWine Tasting at Back RoomWinesNapa, 5-9pm, 707-226-1378, www.backroomwines.com

Sept 11: Is it $15? Or is it $50?Tasting Sept 18:Taste Wines from Austria Sept 25: Languedoc & RoussillonWine Tasting Oct 2: Taste California Red Blends Oct 9: Northeast ItalyWine Tasting

ONGOINGdi Rosa Preserve Art& NatureNapa, 707-226-5991, www.dirosapreserve.org Ongoing thru Sep 19: Mike Henderson Oct 17: Art: Its Alive, 8th Annual Benefit Art Auction

ONGOINGFriday Night Pulse TastingsAcme Fine Wines, St. Helena, 5-7pm, free, www.acmefinewines.com

ONGOINGBuon Amici Members & GuestsBenessere Vineyards, St. Helena,10am-4:30pm707-963-5853, www.benesserevineyards.com Members Only New Release Tastings Barrel Tastings by appointment Vertical Tastings by appointment Wine & Cheese Pairing by appointment

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

ONGOING FRIDAYS-MONDAYSCooking Demonstrations at The DeBaun TheatreSt. Helena, Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, $12.50707-967-2320, [email protected], www.ciachef.edu

ONGOINGTour & Taste In HallWines GhostWinerySt. Helena, Four barrel samples & four current releases, $20

707-967-2620, www.hallwines.com

ONGOINGCabernet Flight Tasting at A Dozen VintnersSt. Helena,Taste & compare award-winning Cabernets, $5707-967-0666, www.adozenvintners.com

ONGOINGVisitor Programs at Robert Mondavi Winery

For details, 888-RMONDAVI x2000, www.robertmondavi.com TheTo KalonTour &Tasting A GuidedTasting Pleasure i n t he Glass TheTaste ofWi ne TheHarvest of JoyTour & Lunch Celebrating CaliforniaWine & Food The Essence Tour & Tasting Artisan Cheese &Wine A Perfect Match

ONGOINGAnselAdams John Muir Trail ExhibitMumm Winery, Rutherford, 10am-5pm daily800-MUM-NAPA, www.mummnapa.com

ONGOINGProgressive Tasting at Sterling VineyardsCalistoga,Taste limited release wines at the winery800-726-6136, www.sterlingvineyards.com

ONGOINGReserve Tour & Tasting at Sterling VineyardsCalistoga, 11am, Private tasting in the Reserve Room after the tour, $45800-726-6136, www.sterlingvineyards.com

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

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at ZD WinesRutherford, RSVP 800-487-7757, www.zdwines.com Traditional Tasting, $10, daily 10am-4pm PremierTasting, $15, daily 10am-4pm Private GroupTasting, $20, by appt Cellar Tour &Tasting, $25, 1pm weekends & holidays, M-F by appt VineyardView Tasting, $40, Sat-Sun 11am, M-F by appt Abacus Tasting, $600 for 4-6 people, by appt WineTrain, $180

ONGOINGTastings at the Popcorn Barat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena,10am-5pm, 707-967-8032, ww w.florasprings.com

Its all AboutYouTasting, $15 Everybodys TalkingTasting, $25

ONGOING THURSDAY - SATURDAYTemptastings in the Temptation Caveat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena,11am & 2pm, $25, $15/memberRSVP 707-967-8032, www.florasprings.com

ONGOINGTastings at Silverado VineyardsNapa, 707-259-6611, 800-997-1770x611, www.silveradovineyards.com SaddleblockVineyardTasting, $75 Library Tasting, $75 Daily Tasting Room Flights, Estate/$10, Premier/$20 Public Tours &Tasting, 10:30am & 2:30pm, $15 PrivateTour and or Tasting, 15-25 guests, $20/tour, $25/tour & tasting

ONGOINGAppellation Tastingsat Elizabeth Spencer Tasting RoomRutherford, 10:45am & 4pm by appointment, $40707-963-6067, www.elizabethspencerwines.com

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

ONGOINGWine Tasting Experiencesat Benessere VineyardsSt. Helena,707-963-5853x105, www.benesserevineyards.com, by appt PersonalizedWine Flights, daily, $10 VineyardsWalking 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

ONGOINGTours & Tastings at Andretti WineryNapa , 877-386-5070x222, www.andrettiwinery.com IndividualTastings, $12 PrivateWinery Tour &Tasting, $15/tour, $20/tour & tasting Vineyard Tour Blending Class Wine Sensory Seminar Food &Wine Pairing

ONGOINGWine Tasting OptionsBell Wine Cellars, Yountville, 10:30am-4pm, 707-944-1673, www.bellwin Current Release Tasting, $15

Reserve Tasting with cheese pairing, $25 Clonal Tasting with cheese pairing, $75 Blending Seminar, $75, 4-10 people Clone 6 LibraryTasting, $250 Sonnette Library Tasting, $75 Large GroupTastings, $20, 11+ people Grape to Glass Tour, $45, weekends, spring-fall

ONGOINGTasting at Grgich Hills EstateRutherford, 9:30am-4:30pm, Tours at 11am & 2pm, $10,Wine library tasting/$30, Barrel tasting on most Fridays 2-4pm707-963-2784, www.grgich.com

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

ONGOINGTours & Tasting at Black Stallion WineryNapa, 10am-5pm, 707-253-1400, www.blackstallionwinery.com Regular tasting, $10 Reserve tasting, $35, Sat-Sun Artisan cheese additional $7.50/person

ONGOINGEducational Tours & Wine Tastingat Castello di AmorosaCalistoga, 707-967-6272, RSVP, w ww.castellodiamorosa.com Regular tour & tasting, $25-$40 Reserve tour & tasting, $35-$50 Tasting only, $10-$25 Young adult tours, $15-$20 NapaValley Neighbor Program PrivateVIP tours

THIRDSATURDAY OF THE MONTHBacchus ThatRascalClos Pegase, Calistoga, free, 2pm, Multi-media presentation History of W707-942-4981, www.clospegase.com

LASTTUESDAY OF THE MONTHWinemaker Dinners at Fum BistroNapa, Local favorite wineries are spotlighted in a four- course dinner. $60RSVP 707-257-1999, w ww.fumebistro.com

EVERY SATURDAYZD Wines: Wine & Cheese SeminarRutherford, Includes visit to Wine Library & Cellar, 11am, $40800-487-7757 x107, 707-963-5188, www.zdwines.com

EVERY SUNDAYSensory Component Tasting at ZD WinesRutherford, 11am by appointment only, $20, 707-963-5188, www.zdwine

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAYWine & Artisanal Cheese Pairings, Havens Wine CelNapa, 10am-4:30pm, 707-261-2000, www.havenswine.com

EVERY SATURDAYChocolate & Red Wine Saturdaysat Bennett Lane WineryCalistoga, 10am-5pm, www.bennettlane.com, 707-942-6684

ONGOINGFriday Night Winemaker EventsNapa, 5-7pm, JV Wine & Spirits, $2, 877-469-9463, www.jvwine.com

ONGOING SATURDAYSNapaRiverwalk withHistorian George Webber2 hour tour with tales & lore of old town Napa, 10am, $20, 707-251-8500

ONGOINGTHROUGH DECEMBER 31Classic Rock Photography ExhibitMarkhamVineyards, St. Helena, 707-963-5292, www.markhamvineyards

TUESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERWeekly Art ShowsClubhouse, River Pointe Resort, Napa, 5:30-8:30pm, 707-252-4200x152

ONGOINGTHROUGH OCTOBER 4Portals to the Past ExhibitionNapa Valley Museum,Yountville, Includes photo of Mike Grgichwww.grgich.com

NAPA VALLEY


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT

SEPTEMBER 12Cooking Class: The Art of SustainableCuisineCedar Gables Inn, Napa, Chef Ben Dubois, 4-8:30pm, $95707-224-7969, www.cedargablesinn.com

SEPTEMBER 12Sterling Silver Screen Series: Apollo 13SterlingVineyards, Calistoga, 7pm, 707-942-3322, www.sterlingvineyards.com

SEPTEMBER 12Merryvale VineyardsOakville Barrel Tasting

St. Helena, 1-4pm, Barrel samples, appetizers & live music, $25, free/members707-968-3429, www.merryvale.com

SEPTEMBER 1233rd Annual Napa Wine & Crafts FairFirstStreet,Downtown Napa,Handcrafted arts,holidaygifts, wine,food & music!Napa DowntownAss ociation, free, 707-257-0322, www.napadowntown.com

SEPTEMBER 12Music Festival for Mental HealthStaglin Family, Napa, 707-944-0477

SEPTEMBER 12-13Club Artesa Lobster Feed at Artesa WineryNapa, 11am-2pm, $75, limited to 100 peoplewww.artesawinery.com, 877-224-8309

SEPTEMBER 12-16American Harvest WorkshopCakebread Cellars, Rutherford, 707-545-3280

SEPTEMBER 12Annual Cellar Sale

at Louis M. Martini WinerySt. Helena, 12-4pm, 800-321-WINE, www.louismartini.com

SEPTEMBER 13September SoireSilverado Brewing Co, St. Helena, Champagne reception, dinner & silentauction. 5pm, $100 Benefits Community Resources for Children707-253-0376x101, www.crcnapa.org

SEPTEMBER 15Viva Mexico Celebrate Mexican Independence DayPioneer Park, Calistoga, 5-9:30pm, 707-942-6333

SEPTEMBER 17Club Vivant Evening Receptionat Mumm Napa

Rutherford, Flute of featured wine, light hors doeuvres & live music, 6-7pm, $10www.mummnapa.com, 800-MUM-NAPA, RSVP

SEPTEMBER 17BrixUnpaved: One Night in Bangkokat BrixRestaurantYountville, Aromas, tastes & sounds of the international street food scene6-9:30pm, 707-944-2749, www.brix.com

SEPTEMBER 18Johnnys Lobster Feed Atop The Roomat Flora Springs WinerySt. Helena, 6-8pm, 707-967-6723, www.florasprings.com

SEPTEMBER 19

NapaValley Symphony League10th Annual Home & Garden Tour9:30am-4:30pm, $45, 707-255-3372, www.napavalleysymphony.org

SEPTEMBER 192nd Annual NapaValley Aloha FestivalManaleo Hawaiian Cultural Foundation, NapaValley Expo Fairgrounds, Na707-966-4017, www.manaleochf.org, free

SEPTEMBER 19Tasting on the Lawn at Charles Krug Win

St. Helena, 2-5pm, $30/adv, $35, www.charleskrug.com, 888-747-5784

SEPTEMBER 19Merryvale VineyardsHarvest Dinner CelebrationSt. Helena, 7pm, Join the winemaker in a dinner catered by TraVigne, $12RSVP 707-968-3429, www.merryvale.com

SEPTEMBER 1920th Anniversary Winemaker Dinneron the Napa Valley Wine TrainFeaturing ZD, Jericho Canyon, Judds Hill & SalvestrinNapa, $165/gourmet, $195/dome, www.winetrain.com, 800-427-4124

SEPTEMBER 19Harvest Celebration! Seasons of the ValleDinner at Merryvale VineyardsSt. Helena, Gourmet Seasonal cuisine byTra Vigne & live music by Swings7pm, $125, 800-326-6069x429, www.merryvale.com



CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

SEPTEMBER 19VIP Vineyard Lunch at Bennett Lane WineryCalistoga, 12pm, 877-MAX-NAPA, www.bennettlane.com

SEPTEMBER 1925th Annual Harvest Ball at V. SattuiSt. Helena, Fine food, wines, music & dancing! 6pm, $200/members, $225www.vsattui.com, 800-799-2337

SEPTEMBER 19-20, 26-27Napa Open StudiosArts Council Napa Valley,www.nvopenstudios.com

SEPTEMBER 24-2723rd Wine Country Film FestivalNapa Valley Expo, Napa River Inn, Cuvee Napa,International cinema fromaround the globe. www.winecountryfilmfest.com

SEPTEMBER 267th Annual Support Our Canine HeroesWine Gala & AuctionThe Historic Carriage House, Charles Krug Winery, St. Helena, 4:30-10pm800-295-4050x4045, RSVP, $350

SEPTEMBER 26St. Supry 20th Anniversary PartyRutherford, Proceeds go to Valley Oak High School, 3-5:30pm707-963-4507, www.stsupery.com

SEPTEMBER 262006 Private Reserve Cabernet SauvignonRelease CelebrationSt.Helena, Beringer Vineyards, 4:30-9pm, $195, RSVP 866-708-9463,

SEPTEMBER 26Raymond Vineyards Harvest CelebrationSt. Helena, 5-8pm, www.raymondvineyards.com

SEPTEMBER 269th Annual CruisinCalistogaBeer &Wine Festival& Car ShowNapa County Fairgrounds, Calistoga, 707-942-1473

SEPTEMBER 26Napa River Rock & StrollNapa, Napa River Trail from Kennedy Park to Veterans Memorial Park8:30am, $15-$30, 707-252-1123

SEPTEMBER 27Tastemaker Dinner at toile RestaurantDomaine Chandon, Yountville, 6:30pm, 707-944-2280, www.chandon.com

OCTOBER 14th Annual Pink Party

Domaine Chandon, Yountville,Proceeds benefit Breast Cancer Research atQueen of the Valley, 7-11pm, 707-944-2280, www.domainechandon.com

OCTOBER 2-4ZD Wines Celebrate 40th AnniversaryRutherford, 800-487-7757, ww w.zdwines.com Oct 2: 40th Anniversary Abacus XI Dinner Oct 3: 40th Anniversary Festival Oct 4: 40th AnniversaryReturn to the Pastat di RosaArt Alive

OCTOBER 31st Saturday StrollDowntown Calistoga, live music & wine tasting, 1-7pmwww.calistogavisitors.com

OCTOBER 3Annual Harvest Party& Grape StompPeju Province Winery, Rutherford,12-2pm: Grape Stomp, 6-11pm: Dinner &Dancing, $150, $130/members, 800-446-7358, www.peju.com

OCTOBER 3

Bennett Lane Harvest PartyCalistoga, 12-4pm, 877-MAX-NAPA, www.bennettlane.com

OCTOBER 3-4Eric Christensen at Galley 1870V Marketplace, Yountville, 1-5pm, www.gallery1870.com, 800-322-1870

ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSWine & Food Sampling at Hop KilnRussian River Valley,Visit the historic tasting room to enjoy delicious wine &sample over 80 food items in their gourmet marketplace, 10am-5pm707-433-6491, www.hopkilnwinery.com

EVERY FIRST THURSDAY THROUGH OCTOBERDowntown Sebastopol Art WalkDowntown Sebastopol, 6-8pm, 707-874-9462,

ONGOINGVineyard Walk & Photography Workshopat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 10am-1pm, $45, $35/members707-931-7924x123, www.brcohn.com

ONGOINGExclusive Wine & Cheese Tastingat B.R. Cohn WineryGlen Ellen, 11am & 3pm, $25, $20/members707-931-7924x123, www.brcohn.com

ONGOINGWells Fargo Center for the ArtsSanta Rosa, 707-546-3600, wellsfargocenterarts.org Sept 11: Marco Antonio Solis Sept 15: Mariachi Divas Sept 19: ACT Sweet Charity Sept 20:The Beach Boys Sept 25: SF Comedy Competition

Oct 1: Pink Martini Oct 2: Carlos Mencia Oct 3: Neil Bergs 101Years of Broadway Oct 6: Emmylou Harris

ONGOINGSpreckels Performing Arts CenterRohnert Park, 707-588-3400, www.spreckelsonline.com

Sept 12: ComedySportz Oct 4: Film Series, Casablanca Oct 10: Joni Morris sings Legendary Ladies in Country Music Oct 11: Film Series, It Happened One Night

ONGOING SUNDAYSDomaine Carneros Sparkling Brunchat the Fairmont Mission Inn & SpaSonoma, 9am-1pm, 707-938-9000, www.fairmont.com.sonoma

ONGOING THURSDAYSThirsty Thursdays at AnabaEnjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with your wine tasting.

Sonoma, 4-5:30pm, 707-996-4188, www.anabawines.com

ONGOINGWinemaker TastingWine Spectrum, Santa Rosa, 6-8pm, $10707-525-8466, www.winespectrum.com

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

ONGOING

Escape to Wine Country Concert SeriesLandmarkVineyards, Kenwood, Bocce ball, wine, picnic & horse -drawn wagon Sept 19: Folk Artist, AdamTraum Sept 26: Jazz Keyboardist, John Simon Oct 3: French Cabaret Artist, Michel Saga Oct 10: Saxophonist, Ylanda Nickell

ONGOINGCooking in the Vineyard Classes &Seminars at Rodney Strong VineyardsHealdsburg, 707-544-3059, www.rodneystrong.com

ONGOINGWine & Food Pairing at Kendall-JacksonFulton, Special reserve food & wine tasting, 10am-4pm, $25707-571-7500, www.kj.com

ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 11Saddles Restaurant at MacArthur Place Hotel & SpaSonoma, An outdoor Garden Party BBQ on the Veranda Garden, 4:30-7:30pmLive Music, Grilled Appetizers, Drink Specials. www.macarthurplace.com

ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 25Downtown Friday NightsShops open on the Sonoma square until 8pm, www.sonomavalley.com

ONGOING THURSDAY-SATURDAYMichel-Schlumberger Winery Green TourHealdsburg, 10:30am, $25, 800-447-3060, www.michelschlumberger.com

ONGOING MONDAY-SATURDAYRobert Young Estate Winery Vineyard Tours& Tasting in a Remodeled Grape GondolaGeyserville, 11:30am, $10, box lunch provided for $20707-431-4811, www.ryew.com

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSComeCrush With Usat Icaria Creek WineryWinemaker Jeff Smith leads a tasting of bottled & barreled winesRSVP 707-486-9623, w ww.icariawinery.com

EVERY THURSDAYThirsty ThursdaysEnjoy complimentary cheese & crackers to pair with your wine tasting.Anaba Tasting Room, Sonoma, Thursdays 4-5:30pm707-996-4188, www.anabawines.com

ONGOING WEEKENDSWine & Chocolate Pairings at Fritz WinerCloverdale, 10:30am-4:30pm, $5 tasting fee covers the pairing707-894-3389, www.fritzwinery.com

THIRDTHURSDAY OF THE MONTHTwilight Tours & TapasAudellsa Estate Winery, Glen Ellen, $35, 5:30pm707-933-8514, www.audellsa.com

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

EVERYFRIDAY MORNINGSonoma Valley FarmersMarketDepot Park, Sonoma, 9am-noon, 707-538-7023

ONGOING FRIDAYS-MONDAYSHanna Winery Reserve Tasting GalleryAlexander Valley,Taste limited-production reserve Bismark Mountain winpaired with local artisanal cheese selections from The Cheese Shop inHealdsburg, $10pp, 707-431-4310, ww w.hannawinery.com

EVERY FRIDAYComplimentary Wine Tastingat Flamingo HotelSanta Rosa, in the Terrace Grille featuring Sonoma County wines, 5:30-7p707-545-8530, 800-848-8300, www.flamingoresort.com

ONGOINGWine Experiences at Chateau St. JeanKenwood,Ten person minimum, 2 hours, $50, by appointment707-833-4134x5258, www.chateaustjean.com Cinq Cpages Blending Seminar, Eight person minimum, 2 hours, $75 Cinq Cpages ComponentTasting, Eight person minimum, 1.5 hours, $2 PrivateVIP WineTasting, 10:30am, 1 & 3pm, $25, 1 hour Box Lunch Prgram withTour

ONGOINGTours, Tastings & Seminarsat St. Francis WinerySanta Rosa, Ten person minimum, Call for more information & reservation888-675-WINE(9463)x255, www.stfranciswinery.com WineryTour &Tasting, 1.5 hours, $25 Vineyards Tour &Tasting, 1 hou Blending Seminar, 1.5 hour, $65

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

ONGOINGTastings at the Vine & BarrelPetaluma, 3-5pm, 707-765-1112 www.vineandbarrel.com Oct 3: Syrah & Rhone VarietalTasting

ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 30Summer Jazz Series at the Ledson HotelSonoma, 6-10pm, 707-996-9779, w ww.ledsonhotel.com

ONGOINGLive From theMiddle ReachSummer Music SeriesC. Donatiello Winery, Healdsburg, 1-4pm, tasting 11am-5pm, free707-431-4442, www.cdonatiello.com Sept 13: Byson Van Cleve Troubaduo Sept 20:The Hellhounds Sept 27: Dani Paige Band

FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERMusic in the CourtyardMichel-Schlumberger, Healdsburg, 5:30-8:30pm, $5

707-433-7427, www.michelschlumberger.comONGOING SATURDAYS

Pizza Caf at the Simi WineryHealdsburg, 11am-4pm, 707-473-3236 www.simiwinery.com

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAYThe Art of Winemaking WorkshopPetroniVineyards, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm707-9358-8311, www.petronivineyards.com

ONGOING TUESDAYSTuesdays in the Plaza Concerts & Farmers MarketHealdsburg Plaza, Healdsburg, Market: 4-6:30pm707-431-1956, www.healdsburgfarmersmarket.org

ONGOINGTHROUGH SEPTEMBER 21Thirteen Photographers ExhibitPlaza Arts Center, Healdsburg, 11am-5pm707-431-1970, www.PlazaArtsCenter.org

SONOMA COUNTY



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENT

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER 7Ravenswood After HoursRavenswoodWinery, Sonoma, 5:30-7pm, $20707-933-2332, www.ravenswood-wine.com

ONGOINGTHROUGH OCTOBER 31TuesdayNight Farmers MarketSonomaPlaza, Sonoma, 5:30-8:30pm,707-538-7023

LASTTHURSDAY OF THE MONTH50 Mile AV Vintner's DiningGlenEllen, Barreltasting& OldVine PinotNoir & Syrahsfrom AshtonVineyard.Foods sourced locally. 4-7PM, RSVP. 707-935-3456, ashtonwines.com

ONGOING FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBERCelebrate Lateat Sebastiani Vineyards & WinerySonoma, 7-9pm, 707-933-3204, www.sebastiani.com

SEPTEMBER 10, 24, OCTOBER 8, 22Wine Tasting FUNdamentalsGloria Ferrer Winery, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm, $25707-996-7356 , www.gloriaferrer.com

SEPTEMBER 10Garden Tour with Seasonal LunchMcEvoy Ranch, Petaluma, 10am-12pm, $85707-778-2307, www.mcevoyranch.com

SEPTEMBER 11-12Cloverdale Classic Car Show & Street CelebrationPlaza, Cloverdale, 707-894-4470

SEPTEMBER 11-13Harvest Wine Country Weekendat Ferrari-Carano Winery

Healdsburg, 707-433-6700, www.fcwinery.com

SEPTEMBER 11, 25Finally Friday at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com

SEPTEMBER 12Harvest BBQ at Alderbrook Winery

Healdsburg, 11am-3pm, $65/members, $75800-405-5987x2, RSVP, www.alderbrook.com

SEPTEMBER 12Artist Reception for San Francisco artist Karen FourgoArrowoodVineyards, Glen Ellen, 12-3pm707-935-2600, www.arrowoodwinery.com

SEPTEMBER 12Mexican Independence DayRobledo Family Winery, Sonoma, 12-3pm, 707-939-6903

SEPTEMBER 1214th Annual Sebastopol Cajun/Zydeco FestivalIves Park, Sebastopol, 10:30am-7pm, 707-829-2667

SEPTEMBER 12Beer in the PlazaPlaza Park, Healdsburg, 3-7pm, $20, 707-433-8093, www.sihealdsburg.org

SEPTEMBER 12Petaluma River FestPetaluma River Turning Basin, 11am-3pm, 707-769-0429

SEPTEMBER 12Release Party at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com

SEPTEMBER 12Harvest BBQ at Alderbrook WineryHealdsburg 10am-2pm, 800-405-5987x2, www.alderbrook.com

SEPTEMBER 12

Orchard TourMcEvoy Ranch, Petaluma, 10am-12pm, $30707-778-2307, www.mcevoyranch.com

SEPTEMBER 12Heirloom Tomato Festivalat Kendall-Jackson WinerySanta Rosa, Live music, food, wine & more. 11am-4pm, $75800-769-3649, www.kj.com

SEPTEMBER 12Harvest Winery Dinner at St Francis WineSanta Rosa, 7pm, $130, $104/members888-675-WINEx255, www.stfranciswinery.com

SEPTEMBER 12-13Katmandu Fall FestivalDepot Park, Sonoma, 11am-5pm, $10/donation707-838-1807, www.katmandufallfestival.org


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20/88

by Charles Neave

As Steve Ledson, a fifth-generation

Sonoma wine grower said, As someone

whose great-great-grandfather first grew

grapes and made wine here in 1862, I am

deeply committed to our familys tradition of

crafting world class wines from Californias

finest vineyard sites.

So it is no wonder that the motto for his

eponymous winery in the Sonoma Valley is:

Impeccable Hospitality, Exquisite Atmos-

phere, Extraordinary Wines. But Ledson

Winery & Vineyards is all of that and so

much more, as you soon find out if you ask

directions to the Castle. Locals will point youtowards Sonoma Highway and, if you are in

Sonoma itself, send you north through the

Valley of the Moon. Then they will most likely

say, And you cant miss it. Its on the right.

Ledson Winery is nothing if it is not

striking, imposing, more than a little bit

grand, and it sits in the middle of some of the

best vineyard property in the county. And

still, everything you have just read may actu-

ally be an understatement.

Always owned and run by the Ledson

family, work began on the winery two

decades ago. Originally it was to be a family

home; a very grand and very large (16,000

square feet) family home. Time passed and

slate roofs, balconies, fountains and the

turrets that help define the property began to

appear and the Ledsons finally came to the

realization that it was time to sit back for a

moment or two and rethink their original

plan.

One thing that brought about the change

was the fact that the Merlot being harvested

from the 17 acre estate vineyard (and at the

time was being sold to nearby wineries) was

truly exceptional. In fact it was St. Francis

winemaker Tom Mackey who, knowing the

vineyard well because St. Francis was one of

the wineries buying the grapes, and knowing

that Steve wanted to make ultra premium

wine, urged him to produce his own estate

wine. Plans were changed and what was once

going to be a home became a winery and

tasting room and a spot for special events,

including receptions, retreats, dinners, and

weddings.

It was in 1997 that Ledson released th

first wine under their own name, the 19

Ledson Estate Merlot. About 24 months la

the winery and tasting room opened its do

to the public.

Today, the property is referred to by alm

everyone as the castle, which is not inac

rate. The grand French Normandy struct

was designed by Steve Ledson and featu

coffered ceilings, marble fireplaces, sweep

staircases, cathedral-style windows,

tasting bars and suites, hand-selected w

sconces, and luxurious bridal suites. Th

are also over five miles of ornate wood inl

and mosaics. Then there are the acres

gardens. There is also a gourmet marketpl

at the winery so you can pick up a snack

the makings for a picnic on the beaut

grounds beneath century-old oak tr

surrounded by newly established vines.

The roster of wines bearing the Led

imprint now includes small, hand-crafted

made from varietals that include the cla

Bordeaux grapes: Merlot, Cabernet Fra


WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

LEDSONWINERY & VINEYARDS



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATUR

Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvi-

gnon. Plus Chardonnay, Pinot

Noir, Sangiovese, Syrah,

Zinfandel, Mourvedre, Barbera,

Primitivo, Grenache, Sauvignon

Blanc, a Ros and a delightful

Johannesburg Riesling. And then

a rich Madera Port. It comes to

more than seventy wines in all.

Together they have been awarded

more than a hundred gold

medals or 90+ points and won 16

Best of Class, as well as two

Sweepstakes awards.

In addition to the daily tasting

of Ledson wines, there are also a

number of special events held at

the winery throughout the year.

On Saturday, September 26, itwill be Corvettes at the Castle

where vintage Corvettes will be

on display. The following day it is

Porsches at the Palace, the

winerys tenth annual Porsche

aficionado event with an array of

some of the German automakers

finest examples. Both events are

from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

As Steve has said, Having a

family winery means more thanbuilding a winery for my family;

it also means building a family for

his winery. And between friends,

employees and Wine Club

members, he has done just that.

If you want to sample some of

these wines, head to Ledson

Winery & Vineyards. Theyre

about 15 minutes from the

historic town of Sonoma, at 7335

Sonoma Highway (Highway 12).Theyre open daily from 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m. and offer a variety of

tasting options. For more infor-

mation, directions, information

on upcoming special events at

the winery, or to inquire about a

true fairytale wedding or arrange

a private tasting, look on

www.ledson.com or call them at

(707) 537-3810.


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www.WineCountryThisWeek.co


22

28th annual event celebrates viticulture with some of the top American

winemakers in unmatched setting of Yosemite National ParkThe Ahwahnee, a full-service, AAA Four-Diamond hotel located inscenic Yosemite Valley, announced lineup for the 28th annual Vintners

Holidays event series. Celebrating excellence in winemaking in an

unmatched and beautiful natural setting in Yosemite National Park,

Vintners Holidays brings together 32 prominent California wineries

over a series of eight sessions from November 1 to December 3. Partic-

ipants are invited to meet, learn from and dine with different wine-

makers, winery owners and growers in each session, moderated by

some of the most respected wine authorities in the country.

Since its inception as a small gathering of winemakers and hotel

guests in the winter of 1982, Vintners Holidays has become a premier

and much-sought-after destination for wine aficionados and wine-makers alike. Esteemed California winemakers making repeat appear-

ances this year include Iron Horse Vineyards, Joseph Phelps,

Rombauer Vineyards, Saintsbury, Mumm Napa, J Vineyards, Silver

Oak Cellars and Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery. The

newcomer spots are occupied this year by Alma Rosa Winery & Vine-

yards, Huge Bear Wines, Ceja Vineyards, Topel Winery and Halleck

Vineyard.

Vintners Holidays is always a grand start to the holiday season at

The Ahwahnee, said Chance Jorgensen, general manager of The

Ahwahnee. Combined with the 82nd Bracebridge Dinner this

December and Chefs Holidays in January 2010, which celebrates 25

years this season, I know of no other hotel that offers such a long-

standing tradition of culinary experiences in the country. We delight

in offering our guests an exceptional forum to get to know some of the

best minds in food and wine, and to enjoy the product of this

immense talent, in one of the most breathtaking winter settings imag-

inable.

Each session of Vintners Holidays, guests are invited to take part in

a Meet the Winemakers reception, participate in educational tasting

seminars and enjoy a world-class, five-course gourmet dinner paired

with that sessions wines from Executive Chef Percy Whatley, served by

candlelight in The Ahwahnee Dining Room.

The sessions are hosted and moderated by a leading expert in wine.

This year Vinters Holidays welcomes back Evan Goldstein, M.S., pres-

ident of Full Circle Wine Solutions, Inc.; Michael Stepanovich, wine

journalist and judge, Gilles de Chambure, M.S., director of wine

education at Meadowood, Dan Berger, syndicated wine jounalist and

judge; and Peter Marks, M.W. and vice president of education, Icon

Estates.

I look forward to Vintners Holidays every year, said Goldstein, a

longtime session moderator and Vintners Holidays participant for

more than 20 years. Not only do you have the best and the brightest

from the California wine world in one room, but the events offer an

inside look and exclusive tasting opportunity to all guests, thereby

deepening their appreciation of wine and winemaking. It is truly a

pleasure and a privilege to participate.

Vintners Holidays offers everyone from the novice to the conn

seur an opportunity to participate in a part of viticulture, sharing

wineries latest vintages and oftentimes rare and limited-rele

samples exclusively with guests. Each year brings a collection of n

and returning vintners, some of whom have participated for m

than 20 years.

This exclusive event sells out early and fast every year. Special t

and three-night packages for Vintners Holidays are available at

Ahwahnee and Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, which includes lodg

two tickets to the Gala Vintners Dinner and admission to the Mthe Winemakers reception. The following rates are based on dou

occupancy, subject to change, and do not include room taxes. I

vidual tickets for the Gala Dinner may be purchased for $199

person, excluding gratuity.

THE AHWAHNEE

Two-night packages from $996 Three-night packages from $1,295

YOSEMITE LODGE AT THE FALLS

Two-night packages from $596 Three-night packages from $695

For more information on Yosemite Vintners' Holidays at

Ahwahnee or to make reservations, call 801-559-4949 or visit on

at www.YosemitePark.com/Vintners.

Ahwahnee Announces 2009 Season Vintners HolidayLineup with 32 World-Class California Wineries

The 2009 schedule is as follows:

SessionI: November 1-3, 2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)Moderator: Evan Goldstein, M.S. and president, Full CircleWine Solutions, Inc.Rob McNeil, Mumm Napa Estates;Tom Rinaldi, ProvenanceVineyardsGeorge Bursick, JVineyards & Winery; Ed Sbragia, Sbragia FamilyVineyards

Session II: November 4-5, 2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)

Moderator: Michael Stepanovich, wine journalist & judgeKristin Belair, Honig Vineyard &Winery; Tom Hinde, FlowersVineyard &WineryK.R. Rombauer, III, Rombauer Vineyards; Cathy Corison, CorisonWinery

Session III: November 8-10,2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)

Moderator: Gilles de Chambure, M.S.; director of wine education, MeadowoodBuck Cobb, KarlyWinery; David Duncan, Silver Oak CellarsRichard Sanford, Alma RosaWinery & Vineyards; Daniel Baron,Twomey Cellars

Session IV: November 11-12, 2009 ( Wednesday-Thursday)

Moderator: Gilles de Chambure, M.S., director of wine education, MeadowoodMark Lingenfelder, Chalk Hill EstateVineyards & Winery; David Graves, SaintsburyRick Hutchinson, AmphoraWinery; Bill Phelps, Joseph PhelpsVineyards

Session V: November 15-17,2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)Moderator: Dan Berger, syndicated wine journalist & judgeEileen Crane, Domaine Carneros; Kent Rosenblum, Rosenblum CellarsRoss Halleck, Halleck Vineyard; Tim Carl, Huge Bear Wines

SessionVI: November18-19, 2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)Moderator: Dan Berger, syndicated wine journalist & judgeStuart Smith, Smith-Madrone; Joy Sterling, Iron HorseVineyardsDan Lee, MorganWinery; Rich Frank, Frank Family Vineyards

SessionVII: November29-December1, 2009 (Sunday-Tuesday)

Moderator: Peter Marks, M.W. and Vice President of Education, Icon Estates; Steve Reeder, Simi WineryFrederick Schrader and Andy Beckstoffer, Schrader Cellars & Beckstoffer VineyardsAmelia Moran Ceja, Ceja Vineyards; Dan Goldfield, Dutton-Goldfield Winery

Session VIII:December 2-3,2009 (Wednesday-Thursday)

Moderator: Peter Marks, M.W. and Vice President of Education, Icon EstatesScott Kelly, Estancia Estates; Randall Grahm, Bonny DoonVineyardsMark & Donnis Topel,Topel Winery; Joel Peterson, Ravenswood Winery


24/88

WINERY COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Its a contemporary rendering of an American wine bar, says Nat

Komes, General Manager of Flora Springs. Nat is talking about The

Room, the Flora Springs tasting room which just celebrated a one-

year anniversary of its stunning metamorphosis. The Room is not

just a place, he adds, but a unique wine, food and lifestyle experi-

ence fueled by a thirty-year legacy of family winemaking and our tire-

less quest as innovators.

Weve created an environment where loyal friends and newcomers

alike can learn about Flora Springs in a group or in private, at the bar,

in the tasting caves or even on top of The Room overlooking the hills

and vineyards. Cool yes?

Yes - cool. And the key to the friendly, contagious energy of The

Room is a handful of people who each bring their individ

approach to the Flora Springs experience with them to work ev

day.One of the most familiar faces at The Room is that of Natalie Pet

who came on part-time at the former Flora Springs tasting ro

while studying at UC Davis. I love working here, she says emph


Your Keys to The Room at Flora Spring

The Room Keys: Brittany Payton, left; Tom Shoar and Natalie Petek, above.



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY COUNTRY NEW

2

ically. The Room has a great vibe, the wine is awesome and the wine

club members are such fun and generous people, she adds. Ive scored

great recipes from them and even had a few offers of places to live closer

to the city for grad school. Now a Davis graduate, Natalie has entered

a PhD program in molecular biology at UCSF , and plans to remain at

Flora Springs during her studies. Being around the energy of the Flora

Springs family is a good antidote to being the reclusive lab rat in my

other life, says the future Dr. Petek. Besides, I enjoy sharing a glass of

my favorite wines Soliloquy and Out of Sight with our guests.

Brittany Payton is the newest addition to the key ring at The Room.Brittany, a rabid doer and world traveler with a degree in Art History

from University of Nevada at Reno, unabashedly confesses to it taking

all her strength not to, bust through the velvet ropes and run free to

explore the hidden libraries at the Vatican. As The Rooms Marketing &

Events Manager, Brittany loves the uniqueness of the space and its

energy.

The other key on the ring is Tom Shoar, who settled in Napa to retire

from over 30 years as a dentist in Southern California. He and wife,

Bente (an unofficial Flora Springs ambassador), have always been avid

California wine explorers. So, Tom admits, when I tired of the

honey-do list and was missing daily interaction with new people, itmade sense for me to come to work at Flora Springs. Tom enjoys the

close-knit team at The Room. And, as for the wines, he says, They just

sell themselves, really the quality in the bottle speaks for itself.

A scientist, an art historian and a dentist your keys to The Room

and a new and exciting Napa Valley wine experience from Flora Springs.

Visit The Room at 677 South St. Helena Highway in St. Helena. For

more information, call (707) 967-8032, 1-866-967-8032 or send an

email to [email protected]. Visit the website at

www.florasprings.com. Flora Springs is also on Facebook, Twitter and

Yelp! And, you can catch Flora Fever at florasprings.com/blog.

PIZZACAFESaturdays11am-4pm

Mark your calendar!UPCOMING EVENTS AT FLORA SPRINGS

September 18 & October 16

Johnnys Lobster Throw Atop The Room

September 25 & October 30

Summer Lunch Series at the Flora Springs Estate

September 27

Great Tastes Pick-up Party at The Room

October 10

Harvest Lua'u & Ukulele Festival

at the Flora Springs Estate


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26

by Diana Greenwood

Two summers ago William Hill Estate

welcomed Ralf Holdenried to 140 acres ofrocky, volcanic soil on rolling hills in theregion known as the Silverado Bench. Ralf

knew all about the world-class wines

produced from this little slice of heaven onAtlas Peak Road since 1978 and the opportu-

nity to work with the grapes grown here wasone he couldnt refuse.

Everything Ive done up to this point

prepared me for this winemaking role, Ralfsaid. The winery and vineyards are just the

right size for making fine wine. I can check on

fermentation in one of our steel tanks, then

walk through one door and Im in the barrelcellar. My vineyards are literally right outsidethe door of my office. William Hill Estate was

clearly designed by winemakers for wine-

makers.Ralf has been walking out the door into

vineyards since he took his first steps. Born

and raised in Germany, farming was part ofRalfs daily family life. Ralfs fatherowned vine-

yards and he shared his passion for wine-making with his son, Ralf trailing his fathers

footsteps from childhood through the

teenaged years. Growing up in my parentsoperation in Germany was different from what

Im doing today but I gained a great perspec-

tive and appreciation for farming, said Ralf.Even though I had no technical background

at that point, working the vineyards was part

of my chores. I cleaned out tanks, rackedwine, helped with fermentation and put in

long, busy days during harvest. This was very

natural for me growing up.Ralf didnt think he would become a w

maker until he did an internship at a sm

boutique winery. Going through crush thseeing the dynamics in the cellar, work

with the grapes and the land, melding eqment and technology to create something

people enjoy solidified his decision to pu

wine as a career. No wonder then, Ralf won to study enology and viticulture at

University of Geisenheim. After landingCalifornia he continued his education at

Davis and in 1997, worked his first harve

Franciscan Winery in Napa Valley. Shothereafter he joined Ernest & Julio G

Winerys Sonoma County winemaking tea

After returning to Davis to earn a MBA,joined Louis M. Martini Winery as the w

making director of small lot wines, embrathe Gallo familys commitment to elevate

status and quality of its wines since

purchase of the historically significant MaWinery in 2002. When the Gallo fam

bought William Hill Estate in 2007, it wnatural next step for Ralf to use his knowle

and background to produce the rich, int

Winemaker Profile:WilliamHill Estate

RALF HOLDENRIED

Continued, next


27/88



2

Napa Valley wines for which William Hill isknown. With a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon

and Chardonnay, it seems Ralf is in the right

place. There are so many interesting nuances

about winemaking farming, irrigation, thefact that a small cluster of grapes is so far from

the finished wine, said Ralf. The artisanshipthat exists in winemaking keeps it very

engaging and of course, the science plays amajor role. In the end, all the elements come

together and that is fascinating to me still.

One wine that fascinates Ralf is the 2006Estate Meritage, just released in May. Its the

first time in the 30 year history of the winery

that a Meritage wine has been produced andits a small volume bottling exclusively for

William Hills wine club and tasting room.Ralfsays the philosophy of this wine is to create a

blended masterpiece using all five traditional

Bordeaux varieties that grow on the Estate.The result is a unique, site-specific wine rich

in fruit, deep in structure and soft and silky onthe finish, showcasing the potential of the

vineyards to the fullest. Ralf selected the best

lots of each of the varieties then incorporatedeach into the final blend which consists of

75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot,

7% Malbec, 5% Merlot and 3% Cabernet

Franc, aged in French oak barrels for 18months.

In the future, as the characteristics of thevintage change each component, the blend

composition will also change, said Ralf.Constant, however, will be the vision to make

a balanced and expressive blend that show-

cases the terroir from the Silverado Bench atWilliam Hill Estate. We have just scratched

the surface of the potential wine quality here.

I believe in the coming years that the winesfrom William Hill will establish themselves as

some of the finest and most sought-afterblends in Napa. That is my goal.

If hes not walking the vineyards, making

wine, talking about wine or tasting wine, Ralfcan be found on the soccer field.He was in the

Pro-League in Germany as a young man andno doubt has passed that passion on to his

two sons, Julian and Jonas. Someday, they,

too, may trail their father in the vineyardWilliam Hill Estate.

William Hill is easy to find at 1761 A

Peak Road, a skip past Silverado Coun

Club where Napa turns quiet countrysThe winery perches atop a rolling knoll o

looking the orderly acres of Block 9, the lCabernet Sauvignon vines that Ralf sees w

he steps out his office door. Youll enjoyview, too, while relaxing in a comforta

Adirondack chair, sipping wine under

winerys charming picnic arbor. Tastingtours are by appointment from 10 a.m. t

p.m. so call (707) 265-3024 to set one up

appointments are simple to get and expewarm welcome when you arrive. Its easy

understand why Ralf Holdenried fits in so where; the staff is friendly and knowledgea

and its a beautiful place where summ

breezes slip in gently, water trickles incourtyard fountain and the scent of laven

lingers in the air. Ralf will tell you that althat matters to the grapes and when you t

his wines, youll know hes right.

Continued


28/88



by Abigail P. Zimmerman

Take part in one of Sonoma Valleys most

beloved annual traditions! St. Francis Winerys

annual Blessing of the Animals will take place

Sunday, September 27 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Bring your favorite furry friend to parade

and be blessed by Sonomas own Father Leslie

from Star of the Valley Church. Or, simply

come for the world-class wines, delicious

nibbles and wiggly fur-ball entertainment.

Either way, the Blessing promises to be great

fun!

Dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, chickens,

horses, donkeys, rabbits, rats and even llamas

are invited to enjoy an afternoon of royal

treatment. Father Leslie and St. Francis

Winery welcome all animals and their

owners. No pet is too big or too small, but allshould be on their best, preening behavior as

they cue up for Father Leslies blessings on the

back terrace. Please remember a leash for all

of your friends!

After the Blessing, St. Francis staff will kick

off the Winery Dog and Cat parade and

contest. Costumes optional. The winners will

be posted on the St. Francis Winery webpage

and glorified to all winery fans and friends on

Facebook. What a great honor for your pet!

Fun and games will not just be limited to

your furry creatures. Adults will be able to

enjoy red and white wines by the glass and adelicious assortment of people-sized snacks.

Canine and feline nibbles will be served sepa-

rately but with no less fanfare.

With wine in hand, adult guests

can browse an array of pet-friendly vendors

and services. Shop for pet-sitters, accessories,

groomers, vets and day care. Enjoy a photo

op or custom created caricature of your pet.

Kids wont want to miss an opportunity to

visit with our camel friends, Humpfree and

Kazy. The Sonoma Humane Society will

be bringing adoptable, loving dogs and ca

their tail-waggin!

All festivities will be set on St. Fran

Winerys lawn, overlooking lavender fi

gardens and their famed Wild Oak es

vineyards. If you havent visited this stunn

mission-style winery, you are missing o

This years Blessing of the Animals prom

to be a great opportunity for wine lov

locals and pet owners!

St. Francis Winery is located at the hea

Sonoma Valley, where they have b

producing bold, full-bodied wines si

1979. Carefully crafted from 100% ha

picked Sonoma County fruit, St. Fra

wines epitomize the very essence of Sono

County terroir. The winery was christene

namesake for St. Francis of Assisi in recotion of the Saints role as protector of

natural world and in acknowledgement of

Franciscan Orders role in bringing Europ

grape cultivation to the New World.

What better place to show off your favo

animals and enjoy world-class wine tha

the 2009 Blessing of the Animals at St. Fra

Winery!

Proceeds from this event will benefit

Sonoma Humane Society.

ST. FRANCIS WINERYBlessing of the Animals



So, you cook dinner for yourself and you pick out a nice bottle ofwine, open it and pour yourself couple of glasses paired nicely withyour meal. And youre left with about half a bottle of wine. What doyou do with the leftover wine?

Ill assume the cork pulled from the bottle has not been damaged,or punctured through its full length. If it was, then you first need tofind a suitable closure, say, an old cork saved from another bottle thatis in pretty good shape. Also good are rubber wine bottle closures soldin many wine shops and tasting rooms. You simply need a closure thatseals the bottle opening well maybe not perfectly, but good enoughfor the short term. Of course, if the bottle has a twist cap closure, this

is not an issue, as long as you havent already thrown away the cap!Now, if you plan to pour from this bottle the very next day, you can

simply seal it and leave it on your kitchen counter, under one condi-tion: the room temperature of your kitchen does not get above normalroom temperature (72 degrees) in the course of the next 24 hours. (Ifit does, put the bottle in the refrigerator.) So find a cool spot for it andfeel confident the next night that the wine will taste as good as it didthe first night. And dont be surprised if, on the second pouring, thewines flavors seem a bit more interesting than it did the first night.Some wines noticeably improve with just enough exposure to air.

But lets say you arent sure about when you will re-pour from thisbottle. Maybe the next night, but most likely it wont be for a few days.

Then you should refrigerate the bottle after re-closing it. Refrigerawill slow the aging process down enough for you to enjoy the bagain in several days. Dont expect it to improve, however, as the boleft on the kitchen counter overnight. It should stay as fresh as itthe first night for 2-3 days. More than this and it will begin a gradecline through the process of oxidation. Remember, the closureuse to re-seal the bottle is not perfect. Some microscopic amountair will creep inside the bottle over time.

Now for the gadgets. There are several tools on the market desigto keep unfinished wine fresh overnight. One pumps the air frombottle through a slit on the top of a custom rubber closure. T

product works just fine, and will extend the life of the wine lonthan if nothing else was done, except to re-seal the bottle. So youadd at least an extra day, maybe two, to the shelf life of the unfinisbottle, again, assuming the room temperature does not exceed 72

Another gadget is a gas canister filled with a harmless and odogas. A tubular spout can be placed through the neck of the bottyou shoot a few hits of gas into the bottle. The gas pushes outoxygen and replaces it, acting as a preservative. You would quicklythe bottle with a suitable closure. I have found this process to wvery well and use it regularly. As an added safety margin, I will reerate the wine also. Bottles will remain fresh for 4-5 days, or more

Len Napolitano lives in Sonoma County and is certified in wine by the Society of Wine Educators,

Wine & Spirits Education Trust and Chicago Wine School and continually gains knowledge from his frequent

contact with California winemakers. More information is on his website, www.wineology.com.

Send your questions about wine to: [email protected] or by mail to Len Napolitano in care of

Wine Country This Week magazine. Wineology is a registered trademark of Len Napolitano.

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

How should I store unfinished wine overnight?

by Len Napolitano

Wineology


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www.WineCountryThisWeek.co32

WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

FLAMINGO RESORT & SPA

170roomsand suites on10 acres,gardensettingwith heatedpool, nightclubwithentertain-

ment,Terrace Grillrestaurant, fitnesscenterand tennis courts2777 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa 1-800-848-8300

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

surrounded by vineyards. 1-800-421-25844350 B arnes R oad, S anta R osa www.vintnersinn.com

LEDSON HOTEL

Luxury hotelsituatedon historicSonoma Plaza.Six individuallydecorated rooms

withking-size bed,whirlpoolbaths, fireplaceand balconies.

Appointedwith antique grandeur pairedwith modernamenities. (707) 996-9779

480 First S treet E ast, S onoma www.ledsonhotel.com

KENWOOD INNAND SPAA premier SonomaCountydestinationfor discerning visitors seekinggracioustreat-

ment,lush surroundings, soothing poolsand elegant accommodations all in a Tuscan

Setting. (707) 833-129310400 SonomaHighway, Kenwood www.kenwoodinn.com

INNATTHE TIDES

Bay views, walking distance to shopping, restaurants; swimming pool, hot tub,

fitness center, sauna; rooms with views and fireplaces; massage available;

continental breakfast 1-800-541-7788

800 H ig hway On e, Bo deg a B ay w ww.In na tt heTide s.com

ROBINS NEST GUEST HOUSE (209) 334-3665 W. Turner Road, Lodi www.robinsnestlodi.

WINEAND ROSES HOTEL AND RESTAURANT2505 W. Turner Road (209) 334-6

AMOROSAINN AND GARDENS8400 E. Harney Lane (209) 367-0

THE INN AT LOCKHOUSE19960 Elliot Road, Lockeford (209) 727-5

LAMP LIGHTER INNTucked into anancient groveof treesand just stepsto thefamousCarmelBeach,youwill disccharming innwithtwocottagesand four guestroomsinnand SunsetHouse Suites.Thesebed

breakfastboutiquehotels havebeen servingthe traveling publicsince1935.(831) 624-6046 www.carmellamplighter.

VAGABONDS INN

Vagabond's House Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in the midst of Carmel's

finest restaurants, unique shops and well-known art galleries and blocks awfrom Clint Eastwood's Hog's Breath Inn.

(831) 624-7738 www.vagabondshouse

CASA DE CARMELAND MONTEVERDEINNS

Nestledin theheart of Carmel-by-the-Sea.Just steps fromOceanAvenuewith itsmany shops,

galleriesand restaurants,the Innis onlyfive blocks fromthemiraclemileof Carmels whitesan

beach. Style, comfort,location theseinnshave itall.

Monte Verde & Ocean Ave., Carmel

831 624-6046, www.carmelmonteverdeinn.com

LONE OAK LODGE

VotedMontereyPeninsulaTravel Planner BestValue.Withinminutesto aquarium,wineries,

MontereyHarbor, shopping,taverns, restaurants,etc. Rooms availablewith kitchenettes.

1-800-283-5663 www.loneoaklodge.

LODI/WOODBRIDGE

SONOMA COUNTY COAST

MONTEREY BAY/CENTRAL COAST

SONOMA COUNTY SONOMA

SONOMA COUNTY SANTA ROSA

CANDLELIGHT INN

Private baths;TV/phone and AC; two-person

marble jacuzzis and fireplaces; balconies or

decks; three-course gourmet breakfast, horsdoeuvres, wine and sherry in the evening; luxu-

rious 30'x60'; swimming pool

1045 Easum Drive, Napa

1-800-624-0395 candlelightinn.com

Check out our websitefor more lodging options


NAPA VALLEY

L O D G I N G

Tee Off for a Cure for Brain Tumors Golf &Grapes Gala Event and Charity Pro-Am Classic

Meet, greet and play with PGA and LPGATour Pros at the exclusive Mayacama Golf

Club. The First Annual Jocelyn LonenWinery Golf & Grapes Gala and CharityPro-Am Classic will benefit the MusellaFoundation for Brain Tumor Research. Thetwo-day event features a gala, live auction,golf tournament and awards ceremony.

Sunday, October 4 Gala Event atMayacama (www.mayacama.com) The winecountrys private golf, lodging and wine club;4:30 to 11 p.m. Meet and greet the Tour Prosover cocktails and wine tasting; silentauction, dinner, live auction and dancing.

Monday, October 5 Charity Pro-Am

Classic, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Mayacama,nestled in the picturesque hills of northernSonoma County. Meet, greet and golf with

the Tour Pros.Gala Event Sunday, October 4, 4:30

to 11 p.m. Enjoy cocktails and wine

tasting with delectable hors doeuvres, over-

looking the 1st and 18th holes, minglingwith the Tour Pros, winemakers and vint-

ners. Join the silent auction at the club-house; dine in the stone courtyard shaded

by graceful trees, enjoying a four coursedinner featuring beef tenderloin and bid on

select lots during the live auction. Danceunder the moonlight and stars following the

live auction.Charity Pro-Am Classic Monday,

October 5, 9:30 to 8 p.m. Arrive in timefor the continental breakfast when the

driving range opens. After registering at theclubhouse, join the golf clinic given by Tour

Pros at the driving range with sweepingvistas of the magnificent scenery. At 11:30

a.m, the golf tournament begins withshotgun start. A scramble format inclu

two flights: a Pro-Am flight fivesomwith one Tour Pro and four amateurs and

Amateur flight foursomes, with famateurs. After the tournament, meet

greet the Tour Pros, winemakers and vners while enjoying cocktails, wine and hdoeuvres in the wine caves beneath

clubhouse. Enjoy dinner featuring shortand awards following.

Confirmed PGA Tour players inclJason Caron, Ian Baker-Finch, DA Poi

Brett Quigley, Jimmy Walker and ChaWarren. Confirmed LPGA Tour play

include Kate Golden, Liz Janangelo, CiRarick and Carri Wood.

For details and package prices, vwww.golfandgrapes.org, call (707) 8

6263 or email [email protected]

Jocelyn Lonen Winery Golf & Grapes Even


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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | NAPA VALLE

3

Charles Krug Winery welcomes wine, food and music lovers to the

58th Annual Tastings on the Lawn, Saturday, September 19th. Strollamong the towering oak trees on the lush grounds at Napa Valleys

first winery while you taste the current releases of ultra-premium

wines, including Family Reserves and Limited Releases. Members of

the Peter Mondavi Sr. family will greet guests, sign bottles and answer

questions about the wines and the renovation of this historic estate.

Whether you favor the fresh, crisp taste of a Sauvignon Blanc or

the fruity mouthfeel that rewards your palate with the Family Reserve

Generations, youre sure to find a wine that youll love. With each of

the fifteen current releases, food pairings created by Calistogas All

Seasons Catering will be offered for your enjoyment.If that isnt enough, throw off your shoes and squish your toes in

the soft grass while you dance to the beat of the classic rock guitaristPaul Hlebcars four-piece Across the Pond band. Walk through the

renovated Carriage House and reward yourself with barrel tastings of

our upcoming Family Reserve releases and meet with winemaker

David Galzignato.

The event also welcomes back for his fifth year at TOL famed

Santa Rosa caricaturist, Doug Shannon. This free activity lets Doug

capture unique and colorful features of the attendees to take home

and enjoy.

Cesare and Rosa Mondavi originated the Tastings on the Lawn in

1951 as a means to educate consumers about wine. Fifty-eight years

later, Peter Mondavi, now the family patriarch, continues the tradition

on the grounds of the Charles Krug estate, established in 1861 byPrussian immigrant Charles Krug and acquired by his parents in

1943.

Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, straw hats and comfy shoes are

encouraged!

Advance tickets for the 21 and over event, which runs from 2 to 5

p.m., are available online at www.charleskrug.com for $30 and at the

door for $35. Advance purchase tickets can be picked up at will call

the day of the event. Call 1-888-747-5784 with questions. Visitors

will receive a 20 percent discount on all wines purchased that day.

Charles Krug Winery is located at 2800 Main Street in St. Helena.

Tasting room and picnic area are opn daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tastings on the Lawn

at Charles Krug Winery



NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Mondavi family import company selected

as exclusive U.S. importer for leading

Umbrian wine producer.

Folio Fine Wine Partners, a MichaelMondavi Family-owned company that

represents specially selected wines from the

great winegrowing families of the world,

announced today that it has been named as

the U.S. importer for all Arnaldo Caprai

wines.

We are delighted to forge this partner-

ship with the Caprai family, said Michael

Mondavi, founder and coach, Folio Fine

Wine Partners. Our goal is to represent

great winemaking families of the world and

the Arnaldo Caprai wines will be a terrific

addition to our Italian portfolio. Umbria is

an exciting region that is growing in popu-

larity among fine wine consumers.

The current economic environment has

left consumers looking for wines that deliver

exceptional quality and value, without sacri-

ficing authenticity, Mondavi added

The winery is named after Arnaldo

Caprai, the successful textile businessman

who founded the company in 1971 to fulfill

his dream of producing his own wine.Starting off with only five hectares, Caprai

eventually acquired more vineyards over

time as he saw the great potential in the local

Umbrian varieties, in particular the Sagran-

tino grape. In 1988, Mr. Caprais son, Marco

Caprai, took over management of the winery.

We selected Folio Fine Wine Partners as

our new U.S. importer because we felt the

team had the passion and expertise required

to grow our brand, said Marco Caprai, CEO

of Arnaldo Caprai. Also, as quality wineproducers themselves, we believe Michael

Mondavi and his family have a unique

understanding of our business.

Arnaldo Caprai is the leading producer of

Sagrantino di Montefalco, a wine produced

from 100% Sagrantino grapes. Since its

inception, the company has been dedicated

to research and experimentation with

Sagrantino, a varietal that is native to the

Montefalco region. Through intensive clonal

selection, Caprai brought Sagrantino back

from near extinction. The winery employs

modern winemaking techniques to create

high quality, intense wines that maintain thedistinct character of Sagrantino.

Located in Montefalco near the town of

Assisi, the Arnaldo Caprai winery is a

contemporary facility that is dedicated to

educating the public about Sagrantino.

The following Arnaldo Caprai wines are

currently available at fine wine shops and

restaurants:

Montefalco Sagrantino 25th Anniversary,

Montefalco Sagrantino Collepiano, Monte-

falco Rosso, Grecante Grechetto dei Colli

Martani, Anima Umbra Rosso and Anima

Umbra Bianco.

About Folio Fine Wine Partners

Folio Fine Wine Partners was founded

2004 by Michael Mondavi and his w

Isabel, with their children, Dina and Rwho oversees winegrowing operations for

company. Folio is an importer, fine w

agency and producer of quality wines f

the worlds premiere and emerging w

regions. Folio provides sales, marketing

public relations services to wine brands f

California, Argentina, Italy, Austria, Germ

Spain and New Zealand.

Folio also operates a custom-crush win

called the Folio Winemakers Studio, loc

in Napas Carneros region, and a wine

called the Folio Enoteca & Winery at

Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa

Folio Fine Wine Partners Adds Arnaldo Caprai to Portfol

Help ZD Wines stomp grapes! This year, visitors

will discover the very essence of harvest season in Napa

Valley. Its about the people, the wine, the beauty of the

valley, and taking full advantage of the season with a

three-day harvest celebration centered around ZDs

40th anniversary. Founded in 1969, ZD Wines willhost three days of food, wine and entertainment to

commemorate four decades of winemaking.

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Friday, October 2 40th Anniversary Abacus XI Dinner

Kick-off the weekend celebration. 20 couples will check-in to The Carneros Inn

before enjoying an Abacus XI release at the Hilltop Dining Room.

Saturday, October 3 40th Anniversary Festival

Be the first to sample fermenting 2009 harvest grapes from the barrel in ZDs White

Room, experience a grape stomp, barrel-making demonstration, live music and a silent

barrel auction of 2008 Founders Reserve Pinot Noir to benefit the di Rosa Art Alive.

Sunday, October 4 40th Anniversary Return to the Pastat di Rosa Art Alive

Guests will join the deLeuze family at the di Rosa Art Alive at Winery Lake Vine-

yard, a historic location for ZD Wines, founding vineyard that provided the grapes for

the first crush in 1969.

For detailed information about the 40th Anniversary Celebration and ticket price,

visit www.zdwines.com/40thanniversary.html

The tasting room at ZD Wines is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ZD Wines is

located on the Silverado Trail in the town of Rutherford.

ZD Wines Celebrates 40th Anniversary


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NAPA VALLEY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

by Michelle J. BakerIt s harvest season, the magical time of

year in wine country when theres a buzz in

the air, on the street and in the vineyards

carrying the promise of a new vintage.

And, its the perfect time to head over to

Louis M. Martini Winery, where you can

experience harvest up close and personally

in the winerys extended Harvest Tour.

On the tour visitors get to spend time in

the estate vineyard, Thomann Station, where

they have been growing Petite Sirah since the1980s. Youll learn all about viticulture; have

a chance to taste grapes in the vineyard; and

do some sugar sampling with a refractometer

as well as learning about the winerys rich

history and commitment to making distinc-

tive wines.

The winery is also featuring a Reserve

tasting this fall that includes the 2004 Monte

Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon, plus 2004 and

2005 Lot 1 Cabernet Sauvignons side-by-

side. These are tremendously complex and

interesting wines that youll want to sit and

enjoy slowly, think about and talk about.

The Monte Rosso Cabernet Sauvignon

comes from the winerys crown jewel the

historic Monte Rosso Vineyard. This

renowned vineyard, purchased by Louis M.

Martini in 1938, has the perfect conditions

for great Cabernet Sauvignon old vines,

rocky, red volcanic soils, and mountain

elevation.

The Lot 1 designation was first used by

Louis P. Martini in 1968 for special premiumlots made from top Napa Valley fruit. Today,

third-generation winemaker Mike Martini

honors the winerys legacy as a leader in

producing ultra-premium Cabernet Sauvi-

gnons by blending the best lots of Napa

mountain fruit to make Lot 1.

Visitors can also choose from a couple

other tastings in their visit to Martini. The

Taste the Winery Exclusives flight features

wines from No. 254, the micro-winery at

Martini that is focused on producing sm

batches of Cabernet Sauvignon, Caber

blends and an occasional surprise. T

tasting also includes the 2003 Los Nio

wine Mike Martini started to make in 19

upon the birth of his first child. Now in

25th vintage, every year children under

age of five design the label for the Los Ni

The Taste of the Appellation fli

features a comparative tasting of Caber

Sauvignons. Experience the differe

place makes in this tasting of the 20

Alexander Valley, the 2006 Napa Valleythe 2005 Monte Rosso (Sonoma Val

Cabernet Sauvignons.

Before you leave, dont forget to ch

out the winerys fine selection of soft good

books, clothing, wine accessories, glassw

and more.

Visit Louis M. Martini Winery at 2

South St. Helena Highway, just a mile so

of the town of St. Helena. The tasting ro

is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily.

Tasting Room of the Week:

LOUIS M. MARTINIWINERY




S T . H E L E N A

Plan an afternoon stop at Louis M. Martini on September 12 for the winerys Annual Cellar Sale. The

sale offers the opportunity to buy cases of older vintage wines and big bottles, all at an incredible value

with huge savings of 50-70% off retail prices! Its a great opportunity to stock up your cellars and wine

racks in time for the holiday season, or chip in with some friends on a few cases of library treasures.

There will be a limited number of bottles available that have been signed by Mike Martini, making them

a great gift for the wine lovers in your life or a fabulous talking point at your

next gathering! The winery will be serving Italian cheeses and library wines

will be available for tasting.

New Release Zinfandel and Petite Sirah at Louis Martini

Louis Martini Winery is kicking off fall with a couple of winery-exclu-

sive new releases. The 2006 Monte Rosso Gnarly Vine Zinfandel comes

from vines planted in 1890s on the historic Monte Rosso Vineyard. These

vines have twisted upon themselves over the years and so turn out limited

quantities of small clusters,

nor cal edition - september 18, 2009

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