Nor Cal Edition - August 21, 2009

8/14/2019 Nor Cal Edition - August 21, 2009

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winecountrythisweek.com E AS Y-TO -F O LLO W WIN ER Y MAP S AU G U S T 2

Y 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

PAGE 24

BODEGASEAFOOD, ART &WINE FESTIVAL

PAGE 29

COLESCHOPHOUSEPAGE 36

LEDSON 2006ZINFANDEL &

RIB-EYE STEAKSPAGE 26

WATERSTONEWINERY PAGE 20

TASTING ROOMOFTHEWEEK:

MOSHINVINEYARDSPAGE 48

BENNETTLANE

WINERY PAGE 40

A TAOF

LAKEPAGE

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

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EDITORIAL Michelle BakerCONTRIBUTORS Carole & Daniel Ehrler

Diana GreenwoodJenna HansenKathleenThompson HillRichard Paul HinkleLes MaherCharles NeaveNan ReileyFrances RivettiJeffry RossSue Straight, WineWenchAbigail Zimmerman

S A L E SGeneral Sales Mike Giangreco

707-938-3734, [email protected]

Sonoma, Mendocino MargaretVillarrealand Lake Counties 707-338-2894, [email protected]

Napa Valley RoseAnnTrzesniewski707-334-1930, [email protected]

Livermore, Lodi, Dave Crockettand Sierra Foothills 707-529-7856, [email protected]

Monterey Bay, Central Coast, Whitney BremSanta Cruz Mountains 831-596-4945, [email protected]

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Planning a Visit to Central CoastWine Country?Pick up a copy of WINECOUNTRYTHISWEEK: CENTRALCOAST

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ON THE COVERHahn Family Wines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WINE COUNTRY NEWSWine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Wineology by Len Napolitano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SPECIAL COUPONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PERFECT PAIRSLedson 2006 Sonoma County Zinfandelwith Grilled Rib-Eye Steak and Garlic Butter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

WINE COUNTRY GETAWAYSOvernight Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

NAPA VALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Downtown Napa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. Helena Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calistoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yountville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Napa Valley Fine Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Napa Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

SONOMA COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sonoma County Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-

Russian River Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Santa Rosa Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Geyserville Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Healdsburg Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sonoma Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sonoma Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glen Ellen Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sonoma Plaza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MENDOCINO & LAKE COUNTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Lake & Mendocino Counties Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

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

LODI/WOODBRIDGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lodi/Woodbridge Area Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

SIERRAS/FOOTHILLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sierra Foothills Wineries Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NORTHERN CENTRAL COAST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Mountains Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70Salinas Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmel Valley Wineries Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Joseph Phelps Vineyards Joseph Phelps Vineyards

WaterstoneWinery

Hahn Family WinesHahn Family Wines

WaterstoneWinery

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Moshin VineyardsMoshin Vineyards

Walter Raymond

RaymondVineyards

Walter Raymond

RaymondVineyards



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Seethe rightside of theNapaValley wineries map on page 4



WINE CLUBOF THE WEEKJOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS

The year was 1972 when Joseph Phelps Vineyards came to life in the rolling hills just outside of the quintessential wine country town of St. Helena. Perched on aknoll in Spring Valley, the graceful redwood winery overlooks vineyard-studded

hills, the outskirts of St. Helena and the Mayacamas Mountains to the west.Founder Joe Phelps has long been known for his innovative spirit and passion

for quality. He pioneered a number of firsts in the early years of the winery: Therelease of his 1974 Syrah in 1977 sparked industry-wide interest in a remarkableFrench varietal whose plantings in California had virtually disappeared and beenforgotten over the previous half century. The 1974 Insignia (released in the springof 1978) was the first Bordeaux-style blend made in California under a proprietarylabel.

After years of studying the complex relationship between wine quality and place,and understanding the importance of terroir, Phelps has developed estate-ownedvineyards in the premiere growing regions of Rutherford, Oakville, Stags Leap, OakKnoll and the eastern foothills of Napa. In Sonoma County, an ambitious projectwas undertaken in 1999 to purchase land and develop vineyards along the westernfrontier of the Sonoma Coast, and today they have 80 acres of Pinot Noir and 12acres of Chardonnay planted in Freestone.

Each year the winery produces wines from classic varietals that include Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Backus Vineyard Cabernet, Insignia (now one of Cali-fornias most successful first-growth luxury blends), Syrah, and a rich dessert winecalled Eisrbe made from the rare Scheurebe grape; for white wines it is SauvignonBlanc and Viognier. At Joseph Phelps Vineyards it also remains a source of pride that90% of all the wine produced comes from estate-owned vineyards.

The architecture of the winery reflects the same commitment to quality andattention to detail as the wines that are crafted within. The wisteria-coveredredwood trellis made from century-old recycled bridge timbers dominates theentrance, visually anchoring the redwood building to the surrounding terrain.

From the tree-shaded back terrace, visitors are offered a spectacular view reminis-cent of the hills of Provence as they sample these extraordinary wines.

Weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Weekends 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Tastings Available By Appointment Only (707) 963-2745

200 Taplin Road St. Helena www.jpvwines.com

WINE CLUB DETAILS

Phelps Preferred remains one of the mostinnovative wine clubs in the nation. Their

mission is to provide new releases, rare librarywines, limited productions and futures of their highly acclaimed wines to members at a 20%discount. Phelps Preferred members havespecial access to Insignia, Backus VineyardCabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and many other premium Joseph Phelps Vineyards wines. Clubmembers may choose one of these options:

Original Program Four shipments per year Two to three bottles per shipment Red, white & dessert wines are included

Red Wine Program Four shipments per year Two to three bottles per shipment Red wines only

Flagship Club Three to four shipments per year Red wines only Each shipment contains six bottles of

premium red wine produced by JosephPhelps Vineyards

Members will have reserved under thefutures program six bottles each of 2006Insignia and 2006 Backus VineyardCabernet, to be shipped upon release inAutumn, 2009

Collectors Club Three shipments per year One case each of Joseph Phelps Vineyards

highest-quality wines chosen by the wine-maker each year (members receive threecases in one year) including 12 bottles ofInsignia and 12 bottles of Backus VineyardCabernet upon release

The Freestone Private Collection Members are guaranteed rare access to new

releases of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir,

including limited production wines whichare available to members onlyThese wines are extremely limited and newmemberships will be accepted only whilesupplies last. When the current vintage ofFreestone wines run out, members will beprioritized on the waiting list for the nextyears releases.

For more information on thePhelps Preferred program, contact Duane Harris

at [email protected] or 1-800-707-5789



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Over 250 Quality WinUnder $25 at Wine Gara

Hidden next to a dilapidated 40s-era former filling station on HigCalistoga lies the Wine Garage. A unique wine shop in Napa Valley

wine in the store under $25. Sound crazy? Its true. And the propriet Joy Miller, have hit on a niche in the Valley that had been very missethere.

There are a lot of winemakers here that cant afford to drink tmake says Miller. Thats crazy, yes, but who can afford to drink a $dinner every night?

Many people miss The Wine Garage on the first try upvalley, buwell worth it. Miller stocks wine from all of Californias wine groincluding fifty Napa selections and 40 from Sonoma County. When out buying the initial inventory, I enlisted a local farmer buddy anbox van and off we went all over California hunting down the deals. out the small producers who didnt have distributors so I could pas

on to my customers. And Miller did just that. His store is stockequality juice all under $25 and all are unique. Most labels in the shoognizable but all pass the same test; everything passes over Millermakes a buy. If I dont love it, I dont buy it, period. Sometimes I whundred wines in one day, load up the truck and haul it up to Calistat the store, and maybe I will crawl in bed by 3 a.m. Needless to sbowed out of the deal after their second trip. I initially recruited him go wine tasting in Santa Barbara until he realized how much work itguy, 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 abverbal description of a customers favorite wine and translate that mendation for sometimes a third of the cost. I have people all ove

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

Miller gets deals on Napa wine too. I have winemakers from sstop in every week saying I have something that will fit into the storhave 15 or 25 cases of an end-of-vintage wine I am the perfect out

So head up to the Wine Garage and check out the best deals in 1020 Foothill Blvd (Hwy 29), Calistoga, CA 94515. For more inf(707) 942-5332. You can also check out the website at winegarage.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

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

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

EVERY FRIDAY MORNINGSonomaValleyFarmersMarket

Depot Park, Sonoma, 9am-noon, 707-538-7023ONGOING FRIDAYS-MONDAYS

Hanna Winery Reserve Tasting GalleryAlexander Valley taste limited-production reserve Bismark Mountain winespaired with local artisanal cheese selections from The Cheese Shop inHealdsburg, $10, 707-431-4310, www.hannawinery.com

EVERY FRIDAYComplimentary Wine Tastingat the Flamingo HotelSanta Rosa, in the Terrace Grille featuring Sonoma County wines, 5:30-7pm707-545-8530, 800-848-8300, www.flamingoresort.com

ONGOING19th Annual Summer Concert Seriesat Rodney Strong VineyardsHealdsburg, 866-779-4637, www.rodneystrong.comwww.omegaevents.com/rodneystrong Aug 22:The KRUSH Presents: SusanTedeschi and JJ Grey & Mofro Sept 7: Daryl Hall & John Oates Up Close & PersonalTour

ONGOINGWine Experiences at Chateau St. JeanKenwood 707-833-4134x5258, www.chateaustjean.com Cinq Cpages Blending Seminar, eight person minimum, 2 hours, $75 Cinq Cpages ComponentTasting, eight person minimum, 1.5 hours, $25 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 & reservations888-675-WINE(9463)x255, www.stfranciswinery.com Vineyards Tour & Tasting, 1 hour, $20 Winery Tour & Tasting, 1.5 hours, $25 Blending Seminar, 1.5 hour, $65

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

ONGOINGTastings at the Vine & BarrelPetaluma, 3-5pm, 707-765-1112 www.vineandbarrel.com Sept 5:The GreatWines of Spain

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

ONGOINGTUESDAYSSummer Nights on theGreen Movie NightWindsorTown Green, Windsor, 15 min after sunset, free707-838-1260, www.townofwindsor.com

ONGOINGTHURSDAYSSummer Nights on the GreenLive Concerts & Farmers MarketWindsorTown Green, Windsor, free, market 5-8pm, concert 6-8pm707-838-1260, www.townofwindsor.com Aug 13: Party Council Aug 20:The Soulshine Blues Band Aug 27: Beatles Flashback

ONGOINGLive From theMiddle ReachSummer Music SeriesC. Donatiello Winery, Healdsburg, 1-4pm, tasting 11am-5pm, free707-431-4442, www.cdonatiello.com Aug 16: Alma Desnuda Aug 23: Allison Schull &Victor Martin Aug 30: Buddy Sounds & Company Sept 6: Chris OBrien Sept 13: BysonVan Cleve Troubaduo

FRIDAYSTHROUGH OCTOBERMusic in the CourtyardMichel-Schlumberger, Healdsburg, 5:30-8:30pm, $5, 707-433-7427

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

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAYThe Art of Winemaking WorkshopPetroniVineyards, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm707-935-8311, www.petronivineyards.com

ONGOING TUESDAYSTuesdays in the Plaza Concerts & FarmersMarketHealdsburg Plaza, Healdsburg market 4-6:30pm, concert: 6-8pm707-431-1956, www.healdsburgfarmersmarket.org Aug 11: Lucky Buck &The Winners Aug 18: California Honeydrops Aug 25: Roy Rogers &The Delta Rhythm Kings

WEDNESDAYSTHROUGH OCTOBER 7Ravenswood After HoursRavenswoodWinery, Sonoma, 5:30-7pm, $20, 707-933-2332

ONGOING THROUGH AUGUST 16Abstractions by Leslie ZumwaltLocal Color Gallery, Bodega Bay, 707-875-2744, www.localcolorgallery.com

WEDNESDAYSTHROUGH AUGUST 26Petaluma Evening FarmersMarket2nd Street between B & D Streets, Petaluma, 4:30-8pm707-762-0344, www.petalumafarmersmarket.com

ONGOING THROUGH OCTOBER 31Tuesday Night Farmers MarketSonomaPlaza,Sonoma, 5:30-8:30pm, 707-538-7023

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

AUGUST 13The Photography of Andy KatzHealdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & BoutiqueSeasons After Hoursseries enjoy wine, food & music at an open reception.5:30-6:30pm, free, 707-431-2222, www.seasonsofthevineyard.com

AUGUST 13Garden Tour with Seasonal LunchMcEvoy Ranch, Petaluma, 10am-12pm, $85, 707-778-2307

AUGUST 13Wine Tasting FUNdamentalsGloria Ferrer Winery, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm, $25707-996-7356, www.gloriaferrer.com

AUGUST 14Relax & Enjoy the Wines ofLazy Creek VineyardsHealdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & BoutiqueSeasons After Hoursseries Christy Griffith, winemaker for Lazy Creek Vine-yards in Mendocinos Anderson Valley, leads an informative tasting of LazyCreek wines. Enjoy wine, food & music at an open reception. 5:30-6:30pm, $15RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome, 707-431-2222

AUGUST 14Dinner with the Winemaker Seriesat The Bay View RestaurantInn at theTides, Bodega Bay, featuring Marimar Estate, $79800-541-7788, www.innatthetides.com

AUGUST 14, 28, SEPTEMBER 11, 25Finally Friday at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com

AUGUST 14-16Grape to GlassRussian RiverValley Winegrowers, Russian RiverValley wineries707-521-2534, www.rrvw.org

AUGUST 15Scentiments!Healdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & BoutiqueSeasons After Hoursseries The nose knows! A fun and open discussion of eight aromas that will make you an expert on wine aromas and flavors.Enjoy wine, food & music at an open reception. 5:30-6:30pm, $15RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome, 707-431-2222

AUGUST 15FeteDu Chateau CharityEventChateau St Jean Winery, Kenwood, 6-10pm, $55, 707-573-

AUGUST 15Grape to Glass Hog in the Fog Backyard BBQ Hop KilnWinery, Healdsburg, 12-4pm, 707-433-6491, www

AUGUST 15Lobster FeedSbragia Family Vineyards, Geyserville, 707-473-2992, www

AUGUST 15Members Only Vineyard Tour & LunchSausal Winery, Healdsburg, 800-500-2285, www.sausalwin

AUGUST 15A Warm Summer Night at PassalacquaWineryHealdsburg after hours outdoor dining, 6-8:30 pm, $35/$RSVP 877-825-5547, www.passalacquawinery.com

AUGUST 15-164th Annual Muscardini Cellars Barrel TastingOlive & Vine Restaurant, Glen Ellen, 12-5pm, www.Musca

AUGUST 15-16Wings Over Wine Country Air Show9am-4pm, Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, San707-566-8380, www.pacificcoastairmuseum.org

AUGUST 15-16Gravenstein Apple Fair

Ragle Ranch Regional Park, Sebastopol, $10, $8/seniors, $707-824-1765, www.gravensteinapplefair.com

AUGUST 18 SEPTEMBER 27Peace, Pastures & BeastiesGraton Gallery, Graton, 707-829-8912, www.GratonGaller

AUGUST 20Sonoma County Exclusive!A Night with Artist Carlo MarchioriHealdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the Vineyard TastSeasons After Hoursseries meetVenetian-born artist Cacaptures excitement and enchantment in his world of art, frpaintings. Enjoy wine, food & music at an open reception.5:30-6:30pm, free, 707-431-2222, www.seasonsofthevineya

AUGUST 20 - SEPTEMBER 1320th Petaluma Summer Music FestivalVarious locations in Petaluma, 707-763-8920, www.cinnab

AUGUST 21Red Wine & Terroir Healdsburg, Ferrari-CaranosSeasons of the VineyardTastingSeasonsAfter Hoursseries Ferrari-CaranoWinemaker Aardiscusses howterroirplaysa major rolein Cabernet Sauvignonwhiletasting four winesfrom Ferrari-CaranosMountainVineEnjoywine,food & music atan openreception,5:30-6:30pm,RSVPrecommended,walk-inswelcome, 707-431-2222

AUGUST 21Winemaker Dinner featuring Cline CellarsTimber Cove Inn, 707-847-3231, 800-987-8319, www.timb

AUGUST 21, SEPTEMBER 4, 18Music at MazzoccoMazzoccoWinery, Healdsburg, 707-431-8159, www.mazzo

AUGUST 21-22, 28-29, SEPTEMBER 4-6Taming of the Shrew - Avalon PlayersGundlach BundschuWinery, Sonoma, $20707-933-3019, www.gunbun.com, www.sonomashakespear

AUGUST 21-23Indy Grand Prix of SonomaInfineon Raceway, Sonoma, 800-870-RACE, www.infineo

AUGUST 22Inside Track on the Healdsburg Food SceneHealdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTastiSeasons After Hoursseries Teri Rolleri,Wine Club Manaand former chef at Cyrus, gives tips on restaurant dining in tasting four favorite restaurant wines. Enjoy wine, food & m5:30-6:30pm, $15, RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome,

AUGUST 22Wine Club Release PartyWilsonWinery, Healdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwi



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK |CALENDAR OF EVEN

AUGUST 22Al Fresco Flavors of SpainWinery Dinner at St Francis WinerySanta Rosa, 7pm, $130, $104/members888-675-WINEx255, www.stfranciswinery.com

AUGUST 22Taste of Railroad SquareRailroad Square, Santa Rosa,12-4pm, 707-523-4185

AUGUST 22-23Cotati Accordion FestivalLa Plaza Park, Cotati, 707-664-0444, www.cotatifest.com

AUGUST 22Copain Sunset DinnerCopainWines, Healdsburg walking tour & French inspired picnic with Rhonestyle wines, 6-9pm, $95, 707-836-8822, www.copainwines.com

AUGUST 234th Annual HeirloomTomato DinnerCarneros Bistro &Wine Bar, The Lodge at Sonoma, SonomaAttack of the KillerTomatoes:The Sequel with EtudeWines, 5pm707-931-2042, www.thelodgeatsonoma.com

AUGUST 23Artists Reception: Peace, Pastures & BeastiesGraton Gallery, Graton, Sponsored by Screamin Mimis Ice Cream. 3-6pm707-829-8912, www.GratonGallery.com

AUGUST 23Harvest Grape Stomp & Crush Partyat Trentadue WineryGeyserville, 11am-3pm, $35/member, $45, 888-332-3032, www.trentadue.com

AUGUST 27How to Match Wine with Music, You Ask?Healdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & BoutiqueSeasons After Hours series renowned pianist and vocalist, FrederickNighthawk, playfully leads you on a medley of how to pair wine with musicwhile sipping on the wines of Ferrari-Carano and Lazy CreekVineyards.5:30-6:30pm, $15, RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome, 707-431-2222

AUGUST 27Wine Tasting FUNdamentalsGloria Ferrer Winery, Sonoma, 10:30am-12pm, $25707-996-7356, www.gloriaferrer.com

AUGUST 28Finally Friday at Wilson WineryHealdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwinery.com

AUGUST 28What to Do While Visiting Wine Country?Healdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTasting Bar & BoutiqueSeasons After Hoursseries two local experts share their secret spots thatwill make your wine country vacation memorable.5:30-6:30pm, $15, RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome, 707-431-2222

AUGUST 29Matchmaker Healdsburg, Ferrari-Caranos Seasons of the VineyardTastiSeasons After Hoursseries learn the art of matching winperfect food. Participants will taste four wines deliciously seasonal small bites. The perfect match aperitif before y5:30-6:30pm, $15, RSVP recommended, walk-ins welcome

AUGUST 29PetalumaWine, Jazz & Blues FestivalSonoma-Marin Fairgrounds, Petaluma, 12-7pm, $40 with w

707-769-9650, www.petalumawinejazzandbluesfestival.orgAUGUST 29

Promenade et Pique-nique Series (Stroll & Picnic)CopainWines, Healdsburg walking tour & French inspirestyle wines. $35, 10:30am-1:30pm, 707-836-8822, www.co

AUGUST 29Wine Club Harvest PartyWilsonWinery, Healdsburg, 707-433-4355, www.wilsonwi

AUGUST 29-30Bodega Seafood, Art & Wine FestivalWatts Ranch, Bodega, 707-824-8717, www.winecountryfes

AUGUST 29 SEPTEMBER 1LaborDay Open HouseChateau St Jean Winery, Kenwood, 10am-5pm, 707-573-06


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ONGOINGThe Cinema at Wente VineyardsOn the Terrace Lawn, 925-456-2424, www.wentevineyards.com Aug 10: Mamma Mia

ONGOINGDancing in theVineyardChouinardVineyards, Castro Valley, 4:30-8:30pm, www.chouinard.com Aug 16: Cajun Music & Dancing in theVineyard Aug 23:70s Music & Dancing in theVineyard Aug 30: Blues Music & Dancing in theVineyard

ONGOING FRIDAYSFridays at FenestraFenestraWinery, Livermore, 12-5pm, 925-447-5246, www.fenestrawinery.com

ONGOINGThursdayNight Music & DinnerThe Restaurant atWente Vineyards, Livermore, 6-9pm, $125/coupleRSVP 925-456-2400, www.wentevineyards.com

WEDNESDAYSTHROUGH SEPTEMBERBocce Ball & Italian Dinner Nightat Garr WineryLivermore, 5:30pm, $38.95, RSVP 925-371-8200, www.garrewinery.com

FRIDAYSTHROUGH SEPTEMBERDinner & Live Music at Garr WineryLivermore, 6-9pm, RSVP 925-371-8200, www.garrewinery.com

AUGUST 30

Day in the Park - Taylor FamilyFoundationCamp Arroyo, Livermore auctions, wine, food, music & more!Benefit for a camp for children. 925-455-5118, www.ttff.org

AUGUST 30 SEPTEMBER 1Harvest Wine CelebrationMitchell KatzWinery, Pleasanton, 12-5pm, $20, www.mitchellkatzwinery.com

SEPTEMBER 21st Wednesday Street PartyCelebrate PleasantonDowntown Pleasanton, 6-9pm, 925-484-2199, www.pleasantondowntown.net

SEPTEMBER 6-7Harvest Wine Celebration at Garr WineryLive blues, crafts, artists & more! 925-371-8200, www.garrewinery.com

SEPTEMBER 6-728th Annual Harvest Wine CelebrationHarvest Village, Robertson Park, LivermoreValley Winegrowers Association,Live music, arts/crafts, wine & food! 12-5pm, 925-447-WINE, www.LVwine.org

SEPTEMBER 12Moonlight Movie in the VineyardChouinardVineyards, $20/car, Castro Valley, www.chouinard.com

ONGOINGRailtown 1897 StateHistoricPark Jamestown, 209-984-3953, www.railtown1897.org Sept 19: 5th Annual Wine & Cheese Benefit

SEPTEMBER 621st AnnualAlpen Wine FestTheVillage at Squaw Valley, www.TheVillageAtSquaw.com

EL DORADO COUNTYONGOING FRIDAYSTHROUGH SEPTEMBER

Wood-Fired Oven Pizza NightsFitzpatrickWinery, Fair Play enjoy live music, pizza & wine! 530-620-3248

ONGOING THURSDAY - SUNDAYPrivateTastings with the WinemakerWinery By the Creek, Fair Play taste with Charles B. Mitchell or a staff wineeducator! 11am-5pm, by appointment, $25, $20/members, 530-620-2402

ONGOING SUNDAYS JamSessions Every Sunday AfternoonFitzpatrickWinery, Fair Play, 530-620-3248, www.fitzpatrickwinery.com

FRIDAYSTHROUGH AUGUST 28Sunset Sippin 2009Placerville, Boeger Winery, 5-8pm, $5/car, 800-655-2634

AUGUST 15Summer Series Blending ClassPerry Creek Vineyards, Fair Play, 3:30-8pm, free, RSVP 530-620-5175

AUGUST 15Summer Concert: Dean O HolicsDavid Girard Vineyards, Placerville, 6-8:30pm, $25, $20/m530-295-1833, www.davidgirardvineyards.com

AUGUST 15BBQ on the GreenJodar Winery, Placerville, 5:30-8:30pm, 530-644-3474, ww

AUGUST 28Summer Concert:TessaEvans & BandDavid Girard Vineyards, Placerville, 5:30-8:30pm, $25, $20530-295-1833, www.davidgirardvineyards.com

AUGUST 29-31Enjoythe Fruits of the LaborJodar Winery, Placerville food & wine pairings, wine spewww.jodarwinery.com, 530-644-3474

AMADOR COUNTYONGOING

Summer Music Concert SeriesStory Winery, Plymouth, 209-245-6208, www.zin.com Aug 22: Ralph Cova Sept 5: Ray Brancale Sept 6: John Presnall Sept 7: Richard Bolm

ONGOINGTHROUGH SEPTEMBER 5Around the World in 80 DaysKennedy Mine Amphitheatre, Jackson, Main Street Theatre209-267-5680, www.mstw.org

AUGUST 15, SEPTEMBER 19Happy HourWine Tasting SeminarStory Winery, Plymouth, 1pm, 209-245-6208, www.zin.com

AUGUST 14-16Sutter Creek Ragtime FestivalVarious locations in Sutter Creek, 209-223-0867

CALAVERAS COUNTYSECONDWEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH

Wines of theWorld EducationTastingsMurphys Hotel, Murphys no reservations required, every5:30pm, $15, 209-736-2949

ONGOINGWEDNESDAYS18th AnnualMusic in the ParksCalaveras County Art Council, 6:30-8pm, free209-754-1774, www.calaverasarts.org Aug 19: Fishtank Ensemble, Cedar Center, Arnold

ONGOINGIronstone Summer Concert SeriesIronstoneVineyards, Murphys, 209-728-1251, www.ironsto Aug 16: Diana Krall with Dave Koz & Brian Culbertson Aug 28: Jason Mraz with Raphael Saadiq

ONGOINGA Motherlode of Entertainment at StevenotWineryStevenotWinery, Murphys, 7pm, $12, $10/members209-728-0638, www.stevenotwinery.com Aug 15: Mario Flores Latin Jazz Ensemble Aug 22: Still Bill & featuring Megan Slankard Aug 29:Thick Soup & Snap Jackson & the Knock onWo

ONGOING

Live MusicCedar Center, Arnold, 209-588-0999 Aug 19: Fishtank Ensemble Aug 22: Over the Edge Aug 29: Groovy Judy

AUGUST 15Art & Wine FestivalCedar Center, Arnold, 2-8pm, 209-588-0999

AUGUST 20Classic Car Cruise NightMain St., Murphys, 6-9pm, 209-728-9971

AUGUST 22FiremansFun DayUtica Park, Angels Camp, 209-736-4081

SIERRAS/FOOTHILLS


CALENDAR OF EVENTS| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEE

ANDRETTI WINERY Two for one tasting with ad

PAGE7

CALIFORNIA WINETOURSTour and tasting from$69 per hour PAGE 29

CALISTOGA CELLARSComplimentary tastingwith ad PAGE 39

FOLIOWINEMAKERSSTUDIOComplimentary tastingwith ad PAGE 87

GOLDEN HAVENMudTreatment for 2,$54 per person PAGE 3

HAGAFENCELLARSFree tasting with ad PAGE 7

JESSUP CELLARS2 for 1 tasting with ad PAGE 41

KENDALL-JACKSONWINERY Complimentary reserve tastingwith ad PAGE 27

MARTIN RAY WINERY 15% discount with ad PAGE 47

OLDFAITHFUL GEYSER$1 off with ad PAGE 38

SIMI WINERY Save $10 on public touror tasting PAGE 25

SONOMAWINE HARDWAREFree offer PAGE 4

STAGECOACH EXPRESSComplimentaryshipping box PAGE 29

SUMMERS WINES10% discount with ad PAGE 39

TRENTADUE WINERY PAGE 51Complimentary tasting with ad

Coupons &Discounts


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AUGUST 22Open Garden DayGovernment Center, San Andreas, 10am-2pm, 209-754-6477

AUGUST 27Thursdays at thePitIronstoneVineyards, Murphys, 209-728-1251, www.ironstonevineyards.com

NEVADA COUNTYFRIDAYSTHROUGH SEPTEMBER 25

Sunsetat thePeak Pilot Peak Winery, PennValley, 4-8pm, 530-432-3321, www.pilotpeak.com

THURSDAYSTHROUGH AUGUST 27ThursdayNight Marketplace & Street FestivalDowntown GrassValley, 6-9:30pmwww.downtowngrassvalley.com

AUGUST 12-19Nevada County FairNevada County Fairgrounds, Grass Valley, 10am-11pm530-273-6217, www.nevadacountyfair.com

AUGUST 20-23Nevada City Film FestivalVarious locations, 916-548-7716, www.nevadacityfilmfestival.com

AUGUST 22Project Pink PartyPilot Peak Winery, PennValley 5-10:30pm, 530-432-3321, www.pilotpeak.com

AUGUST 23Pioneer Park Picnic Pops ConcertPioneer Park Bandshell, Nevada City, 5pm, free, 530-272-6228, www.nccb.org

AUGUST 29MinersPicnicEmpire Mine State Historic Park, Grass Valley, 10:30am-4:30pm, $3, $1/kids530-273-8522, www.empiremine.org

SACRAMENTO VALLEYONGOING

Sacramento River Train800-866-1690, www.sacramentorivertrain.com Aug 15: Sunset Dinner w/Larry James Band Sept 12, 26: GreatTrain Robbery

AUGUST 19-23Yolo County FairYolo County Fair Grounds, Woodland530-402-2222, www.yolocountyfair.net

AUGUST 21 SEPTEMBER 7California State FairCal Expo, Sacramento, 916-263-3247, www.bigfun.org

SOLANO COUNTYAUGUST 15-16

TomatoFestival & West CoastBarbecue ChampionshipDowntown Fairfield, 707-422-0103, www.fairfielddowntow

AUGUST 304th Annual Family FarmDaysSuisunValley HarvestTrail, Fairfield,10am-5pm877-793-7386, www.VisitFairfieldCA.com

ONGOING2009 Concert SeriesJessies GroveWinery, Lodi, $20/adv, $25, 209-368-0880, w Aug 15: Very Special Surprise Guest Aug 29: LeahTysse &The OGs

ONGOINGTHROUGH AUGUST 28Rough Sawn, Historic Barnsof San Joaquin CountyKnowlton Gallery, Lodi, 1pm, 209-368-5123, www.Knowlt

AUGUST 22-23HeirloomTomato & WineEventBoitano Family Wines, Lockeford, 12-5pm, 209-286-1595

LODI/WOODBRIDGE

1www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK |CALENDAR OF EVEN


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by Charles Neave

Our mission is delivering a wine that is atrue value made from excellent Napa grapes.That, in a very few words, sums up thephilosophy as well as the practice of Water-stone Winery.

In a time when hugely expensive estatesand celebrity winemaking consultants seem todominate the landscape, and where financialresources and management philosophies canoften times appear to be more important thanbasic winemaking and grape growing skills asthe key to success in the wine business, it israre that a simple idea can give birth to winesthat stand out for flavor and balance, ratherthan pedigree alone. That is the basis thefoundation - for Waterstone Winerys credo.

Waterstone is a joint venture betweenseasoned wineexecutive Brent Shortridge andveteran winemaker Philip Zorn. It wasformed in 2000 when the two met anddiscovered that they had a mutual interest increating fine wines at a reasonable price.Today, total production is right around20,000 cases annually, with about half of itdevoted to Cabernet Sauvignon. Out of thetotal production, about a quarter of it isexported, to such far-flung places as Japan,Brazil, Switzerland, Vietnam, Great Britain,the Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, Russia

and Poland. There, the wines serve admirablyas bottled ambassadors of the wines of Napa.

They also make some wines in small lots,such as their exceptional Ros of CabernetSauvignon, of which less than 250 cases aremade, or their coveted and flavor-packed buteasily drinkable Syrah, where productionhovers right around the 300 case mark.

From the very beginning, almost a decadeago, the two founders used their previouslyestablished relationships with Napa Valleygrowers and vintners to build their collection.The goal has always been to develop well-balanced wines that show their varietal attrib-utes through the careful sourcing of the fruit.They prefer to focus on the wine itself ratherthan the accumulation and costly mainte-nance of land and facilities. Instead they havededicated themselves to winemaking, whilemaintaining their strong relationships withtop growers and securing long-term grapecontracts on the finest grapes. Those are someof the keys to Waterstones quality andsuccess.

Simply put, we focus on what grape vari-etal grows best where, winemaker Zorn saidrecently. Born in the United States and raisedin Germany, he attended that countrys topschool of enology and worked at notedproducer Weingut Pieroth before returning tothis country in 1984. Once back in America

he became winemaker at a number of tCalifornia wineries, including Tria, SunnyHelena, and Paraiso Springs. Along the whe developed an abiding understanding grape growing and winemaking in Golden State, eventually becomingspecialist in its particular and distinctive vcultural properties and characteristics.

My winemaking techniques are informby this ideology: the gentle handling of frthe use of oak as appropriate, minimal filttion and fining and careful preservationacidity. They are all indicative of the levecare exercised throughout, Zorn has said.

His business partner brings a backgrouin biochemistry to the mix, and also extensexperience working at Sonomas histoBuena Vista Winery, an experience Shortridadmits changed his life. After a perworking with the legendary winemak Andre Tchelistcheff, he knew that wine whis future and his destiny so he stayedBuena Vista, first as a chemist, then in expand finance before becoming the vice predent of marketing, experience well servedhis partnership at Waterstone.

To taste Waterstone wines go to thmodern (but very comfortable and unfingly friendly) tasting room in the CityNapa near the river. It is the perfect examof what the term eco-friendly can mean. T


WINERY FEATURE| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

WATERSTONE WINERY



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK| WINERY FEATU

tasting bars long counter top ismade up of crushed olive oilbottles and wine bottles, furni-ture upholstery is recycled poly-ester, and two sides of the roomare made up of walls of windowsto let natural light in. We try to

do everything as green aspossible. We use reclaimedfabrics, plus bamboo, low voltagelights and earth-friendly paint,and whenever possible we offerlocal Napa products.

They share the space with oneof the regions most noted makersof Pinot Noir, Mahoney Vine-yards. We were looking fortasting room space at the sametime they were, and we knewthem well, so it was a natural fit,especially since our wines arequite different. In fact, today weeven share office space with themabout ten blocks away, Zornsaid, obviously pleased at theoutcome.

The Waterstone wines oftenpoured in the tasting roominclude a Napa Valley CabernetSauvignon, possibly the NapaValley Cabernet Reserve, that

refreshing Napa Valley Ros of Cabernet Sauvignon, the Napa

Valley Syrah, a CarnerosChardonnay from vineyards inCarneros, a Pinot Noir (also fromCarneros) and a Napa ValleyMerlot. In each you will discoverthat, indeed, this winery has notstrayed from its original missionstatement and you, theconsumer, are the one rewardedfor their unwavering principals.

The Waterstone Winerytasting room near the OxbowMarket in downtown Napa isopen daily, Sunday throughThursday from 11 a.m. to 7p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11a.m. to 9 p.m. The address is708 First Street. For additionalinformation, call (707) 265-9600 or visit their website atwww.waterstonewines.com.


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by Charles Neave

Winemaker Walter Raymond, is not just apart of the grape growing and winemakingteam at a famous Napa Valley property thatover the years has become synonymous withquality and consistency in the world of finewine. The second son of Roy Raymond Jr.and his wife, Martha Jane BeringerRaymond, he is both namesake and an inte-gral part of a Napa Valley winery where therewas already a lot of history built in, not theleast of it being the fact that the Raymondsthemselves are fifth-generation winemakers,certainly a rarity in the Napa (or almost anyother) Valley. In fact, the grandfather of Martha Jane Beringer, was Jacob Beringer,founder of the famous St. Helena winery that

still bears that familys name. Walter attended college at Cal-Poly, SanLuis Obispo, graduating with a degree inAgriculture-Business Management. Afterthat stint in academia he returned toBeringer where he joined his father andolder brother. At Beringer he served for ashort time as Cellar Master before leavingin 1971 to help his family establishRaymond Vineyard, a vineyard and winerythat, over the years, has become one of thebest known and most appreciated faces of

Valley wine making. With the winerys first harvest in 1974,

Walter assumed the role of winemaker. It isa role he has filled admirably and withdistinction since that first crush. Over theyears he has worked alongside a legion of other modern winemaking pioneers in thisprized and world-famous Napa Valleyappellation. As proof that the familycontinues to remain at the very core of thewinery that bears their name, Walter andGeris daughter, Krisi, great-great grand-daughter of Jacob Beringer, who beganworking at Raymond at the age of ten, isnow the winerys Director of Strategic Plan-ning (among other responsibilities) and themother of two members of the sixth genera-tion of the winery family.

As to the future of this iconic winery, Walter says, Raymond Vineyards is locatedin the heart of Cab country. We arereplanting some of our older Merlot vine-yards to Cabernet Sauvignon now and arelooking closely at location, clone selection,spacing and trellis decisions as a way toimprove wine quality in the vineyard. Ourentire winemaking team is focused onproducing the highest quality CabernetSauvignon from Napa Valley.

The bottled offerings produced by

Raymond Vineyard, no matter what tvintage or varietal, have always been knoas very accessible wines crafted tohighest standards, year after year. Thmanage to navigate that complex mabetween complex and user friendwithout short-changing either part of tequation.

Our blending, barrel aging and botaging is done with both the varietal and tconsumer in mind our goal is to provisuperb, enjoyable wines, vintage afvintage, Walter has said, explaining in pwhy his wines attract such a sizeabfollowing.

Our wines are crafted to enjoy with yomeal, he said. We love to plan for, coand enjoy our meals with family and frien

and wine makes it even more fun!One sip is all it takes to make that stament ring so true, as it has over all thoyears since Raymond Vineyard & Cemade that first, historic vintage.

The winerys tasting room is open fr10 a.m. until 4 p.m. every day. They alocated at 849 Zinfandel Lane (betweRoute 29 and the Silverado Trail) inHelena. For more information, give themcall at 1-800-525-2659 or look on thinternet at www.raymondvineyards.com.

Winemaker Profile: Raymond VineyardsWALTER RAYMOND



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WINERY COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Situated on an eastern-facing rise in the Santa Lucia Highlands,overlooking Monterey Countys fertile Salinas Valley, is Hahn EstatesWinery.

Nicolaus (Nicky) Hahn, and his wife Gaby, discovered a love forCalifornia wines in the mid 70s. Their passion was so strong that theybegan a search to find the perfect place to make wines of their own. Ittook two years for the Hahns to find the two neighboring horse andcattle ranches that had been converted to vineyard property. The grapegrowing conditions were ideal, so it was there that Hahn EstatesWinery and Smith & Hook Wines were established.

Then in 1988, sensing the richness and potential of this region,Nicky Hahn sent a letter to his neighbors advocating a new wine

appellation; ultimately his pioneering effort led to the creation in 1991of one of the most exciting and highly-lauded U.S. wine appellations

today: the Santa Lucia Highlands (SLH) which is the region where winery estate is located.

With the backdrop of the famed Santa Lucia Mountains to the wand the vast Salinas Valley to the east, Hahn Estates Winery hevolved from what was originally a ranch property, to a grape growiventure, to a world-class winery with a dual purpose of the place.

Hahn Family Wines, which is still owned and operated by tNicolaus Hahn family, is now a broad portfolio of wines. It incluthe ultra premium estate wines of Lucienne and Hahn SLH Estatethe distinctive Hahn Estates Winery brand, Smith & Hook Winerand Bin36 wines all primarily from the Central Coast and MonterCounty appellations. In addition Hahn produces Huntington WinCellars from Sonoma County appellations and Cycles Gladiator Winwhich bear Central Coast and California appellations.

Hahn Estates Winery and Vineyards takes the stewardship of thland very seriously. The estate is rugged and full of natural beau


Hahn Estates Winery Beautiful, SustainableFrom Wine Tastings to Special Events to Green Vin



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK| WINERY COUNTRY NE

2

Serious about preserving the environment, the vineyards were Certi-fied Sustainable through the SIP program last year, and recently Hahn

Winery was the first winery in the Monterey, Santa Cruz and SanBenito tri-county region to be certified green by theMonterey Bay AreaGreen Business Program. The winery recently completed a rigorousprogram to ensure compliance with all regulations and meet programstandards for conserving resources, preventing pollution and mini-mizing waste.

With a longstanding commitment to preservation of the environ-ment, the certification is the latest step in the winerys ongoing effortsto promote the three Es of sustainability, Environmental Health,Economic Viability and Social Equity.

The winery property has become a highly-sought destination forwine country visitors and private special events such as meetings,anniversaries, family reunions and weddings.

Because of its spectacular location, the Hahn Estates Winery expe-rience is unique. The Hahn Estates Winery Tasting Room and acharming Vineyard House are nestled in the Santa Lucia Highlandsamong 1,200 acres of Hahn Family-owned vineyards. With themajestic Santa Lucia Mountains as a backdrop, the property also offerspanoramic views of the Gavilan and Sierra de Salinas mountainranges.

With a 360 degree vista and appealing views, the Hahn EstatesWinery Vineyard House, with indoor and outdoor facilities, is theperfect place for memorable gatherings and celebrations for up to 250

guests. The Vineyard House, with its stunning vineyard views and afull indoor kitchen, has a large dining room that can seat up to 22guests. Right outside the doors of the house is a lovely deck, as well asan expansive lawn area that can accommodate a larger crowd. Chefsof the region often make use of the large outdoor barbecue area tocreate fresh California cuisine, which can be paired beautifully withHahn Estates wines, for groups of all sizes.

For more information about Hahn Estates Winery go towww.hahnestates.com. The winery tasting room is open to visitorsdaily. To inquire about setting up an event at the winery property, call(831) 678-4555 or send an email to [email protected].

P IZ Z AC A F E

Sat ur day s11am-4pm

Hahn Estates wines can be enjoyed on the deck with beautiful views and over-looking the expansive lawn area.


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GRILLED RIB-EYE STEAKS WITH GARServes 4

4 (16 ounce) rib-eyes, each about 1 inches thick 1 tablespoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 tablespoons minced garlic, divided

Season the steaks evenly on all sides with the kosher saltand set aside for at least 20 minutes until meat has reachedroom temperature. Heat a large saut pan over medium-high

heat and add olive oil. When the oil is almost smoking, add onetablespoon plus one teaspoon of the butter. Add steaks andcook, undisturbed, for six minutes, or until well-browned onthe first side.

Turn the steaks over and top each steak with one table-spoon of the garlic and two teaspoons of the remaining butter.Continue to cook the steaks on the second side for 5 minutesfor medium rare. Remove the pan from the heat, tilt the panslightly and remove some of the excess rendered fat from thepan. Turn steaks briefly so that the garlic and butter are in thepan and allow steaks to sit for 15 seconds.Transfer the steaks toa platter and pour the garlic butter drippings over the steaks.Allow steaks to rest for five minutes before serving.

Slice steaks thinly andserve, with pan drippings sizzled overthe meat. If there is any garlic butter left over in the pan, poura little over a smooth mountain of mashed potatoes on eachplate. And if you are feeling extra daring, sprinkle freshParmesan cheese on a lined baking sheet and stick it in theoven for about five minutes to crisp. Place a Parmesan crispinto the top of the mashed potatoes for an added gourmettouch.

Aromas of raspberries, carameland Indian spices create anintriguing backdrop for fantasticflavor combinations of white pepper,raspberry jam and smooth leatherunleashed in a bottle of Ledsons2006 Sonoma County Zinfandel.

What could be more aptly paired

with such a dynamite duo forsensory satisfaction than a delectablyjuicy, buttery steak?

Though garlic is frequentlypungent and overpowering, thisoutstanding Zin easily withstandssuch a powerful pairing as the twocompliment each other ideally atop a terrific cut of meat.

Grilled rib-eye steaks infused with garlic butter bring out thespicy pepper and perfectly ripe raspberry tones in the wine. Withits soft, vanilla finish, this extra special Sonoma County Zin willround out the palate and leave you craving for more!

Pop open a bottle of wine while prepping dinner and minglingwith guests for this is a wine which will see you through theevening and a recipe that will not keep you in the kitchen for toolong.

Blended from fruit sourced from hand-selected vineyardsthroughout Sonoma County, this Zinfandel is one of LedsonWinerys favorite wines. Vineyards chosen for unique characteris-tics produce a wide range of rich and jammy, soft and subtle fruitsfor the ideal unity of flavors for a distinctly well-defined wine.

In addition to tasting at the legendary Sonoma County familysKenwood winery Castle and marketplace, the menu at LedsonHotel & Harmony Lounge, fronting Sonomas Historic Town Plazais inspiration enough for this grilled rib-eye steak and Zinfandel

pairing, in its classic evocation of Sonomas rich history, great tasteand old world charm.

Perfect Pairs by Frances Rivetti

26

Grilled Rib-Eye Steaks with

Garlic Butter with Ledson 2006Sonoma County Zinfandel

7335 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood(707) 537-3810 www.ledson.com



WINE COUNTRY THIS W

2

Find the Perfect Accessories to ComplimYour Wine Collection at Wine Hardwa

by Michelle J. BakerNow that your trunk is loaded down with cases of wine, isnt it time

to accessorize your wine life? After all, you cant go home and drink all that beautiful, expensive

wine out of ordinary glasses. Nor do you want to leave an unfinishedbottle for the next day without preserving it well. And with all thatwine, its probably time to think about how to store it properly.

This trip, make time to stop by Wine Hardware, a retail outlet witheverything you need to enjoy wine even more. All four Wine Hard-ware stores (see location information below) carry a complete inven-tory of wine necessities, including cellars, cooling units, wine racks,glassware and wine education products. Their selection is unmatched,no matter your budget.

Consider Wine Hardwares catalog of wine storage systems: theycarry 14 different brands of wine storage and cabinetry, includingsystems that can be custom-made in any finish or style. If you arelooking for ecofriendly wine storage options, most of Wine Hardwaresstorage systems are made from recycled wood and wood scraps. With10 years of experience building wine cellars for a whos who list of Wine Country collectors, Wine Hardwares staff is ready to tackle any

wine storage project. Wine Hardware also carries all of those fabulous wine gadgets th

are fun to use and end up stretching your wine buck. Check out thhot new Wine Preserva, a preservation system that uses a disc to floon the surface of the wine, acting as a barrier to oxidation. You can u

Wine Preserva in combination with Private Preserve, a spray threplaces oxygen in a bottle with a neutral gas, to protect partial bottlwith an impenetrable seal. Or pick up a personal aeration device likthe Vinturri or Soiree and see how quickly these magical little invetions soften a wine.

Wine Hardware also carries more than 600 styles of corkscrews, 3styles of decanters, a full range of glassware starting at a dollar pstem, and thousands of wine-related books from more than 20publishers.

Drop by one of Wine Hardwares four convenient locations:Napa Valley: 659 Main Street in St. HelenaSonoma Valley: 536 Broadway in SonomaEast Bay: 1617 Locust Boulevard in Walnut CreekPeninsula: 360 Swift Ave, Suite 30-34 in South San Francisco.

You can also visit Wine Hardware on the internetwww.winehardware.com.



An appellation is a defined geographic wine-growing region that isrecognized for its unique climate, soil, elevation or other physicalfeatures that together have a unique impact on itswines. An appellationsboundaries may cross county and state borders because it is nature thatcreates its geographic limits, not the government. However, the USAlcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) does get involved inmaking these appellations official and legal designations, which can behelpful information to wine consumers when reading a wine label. ATTB-approved region is known as an American Viticultural Area (AVA).There are a total of 193 AVAs designated throughout the US. The oldestone in California is Napa Valley.

AVAs also can be sub-divided into smaller areas that are also knownfor their own unique soil conditions or microclimates. Taking NapaValley as an example, there are currently 13 AVAs within the NapaValley AVA, with names like Stags Leap District and Carneros. The TTBspecifies that at least 85% of a wines grapes must be grown in the AVAspecified on the label. In California, when no single AVA is the originof 85% the grapes of a given wine, the label may indicate a larger AVA

that encompasses all the various sources, if possible. Otherwise, it cindicate California as the source of the grapes. In a case such as ththe producer may identify on the rear label the different origins of tgrapes that make up that wine.

As wine consumers experience the wines of different AVAs, readthe AVA designation on a wine label is like a having virtual tastwhats inside. Because winemakers and wine enthusiasts know thunique soils and climate conditions produce unique wines, an AVdesignation indicates a certain consistency of style that thegeographic features have produced in wine over a long period of timIn addition, as AVAs are sub-divided into even smaller defined areit follows that the wine style gets even more specific, although a wfrom a small AVA is not a guarantee that it will be of superior quato a broad AVA.

Len Napolitano lives in Sonoma County and is certified in wine by the Society of WineWine & Spirits Education Trust and Chicago Wine School and continually gains knowledge

contact with California winemakers. More information is on his website, www.wineoSend your questions about wine to: [email protected] or by mail to Len Napolit

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

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

What is a wine appellation?

by Len NapolitanoWineology


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Enjoy 30 locally produced winesand24 microbrews and localmusic favorites Pride& Joy,Zakiya Hooker, andSteve Lucky

andthe Rhumba BumsStarted more than a decade

ago, the Bodega Seafood Art andWine Festival has become one of the Bay Areas popular festivals,attracting winemakers, foodies,art aficionados and music loversby the thousands. Home toHitchcocks classic thriller, TheBirds, Bodega proves the perfectlocale for an unforgettableweekend with Sonoma Countystop wineries, microbreweries,renowned seafood purveyors,talented artists and world-classmusicians.

The open-air event, whichtakes place on August 29th and30th at scenic Watts Ranch,invites wine lovers to participatein the wonderful festival tastingfeaturing approximately 30locally produced wines and 24

micro brews. Celebratesummers seafood bounty byenjoying festival favoritesincluding barbecued oysters,crab cakes, and Key Lime cala-mari, as well as other delicacies,including vegetarian options.

The weekend festival featuresdozens of events showcasingcarefully selected originalartwork, crowd-pleasing enter-tainers, a wild animal safari,and rubber duck races benefitingStewards of the Coast andRedwoods.

Created by local artists JanetCiel and Michael Ecton, thefestival was born of their passionfor the East Coasts plethora of traditional seafood festivals.While escaping the winter coldto exhibit in Florida during the

mid-1990s, they discoveredthese celebrations-of-all-things-

seafood. We couldnt believethere werent similar seafoodfestivals on the West Coast. So wedecided to start our own to sharewith Northern Californians, says

Janet.

Not-to-be-missed highlightsThe Bay Areas most popular

band, Pride & Joy, will be on themusic scene, featuring their one-of-a-kind, electrifying, high-style

shows of pop/soul music.There will also be a liveperformance by the daughter of blues legend John Lee Hookerand an exceptional bluesperformer in her own right,Zakiya Hooker

The rompin, stompin

leaders of cross-polinated gypsymusic, Fishtank Ensemble willplay their mesmerizing blend of flamenco guitar, punk accordion,

saw playing, and Japaneseshamisen. A young band that isone of the most thrilling live actson the planet, according to theLA Weekly

San Francisco darling of theswing dancing set, Steve Luckyand the Rhumba Bums play

jump blues, swing, jazz, and raregems inspired by the 30s, 40s,and 50s.

Tom Rigney and Flambeau,voted best cajun/zydeco band of 2004, is renowned as a bandthat will tear the roof off of anyplace and raise the spirits of everyone around

George Cole and Vive Le Jazzswill bring superbly crafted andsophisticated original music thatevokes the best of GeorgeGershwin, Cole Porter andDjango Reinhardt.

Lively fun for kids and adultswho are kids at heart there willbe an interactive wild safarishow featuring alligators,armadil los and wallabies, ohmy!

The public is invited to enjoyNorthern Californias culinary

creations, sublime summweather and world-class enttainment on August 29 froma.m. to 6 p.m. and on August

from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admsion is $12 for adults, and kiunder 12 years are admitted fof charge.

Festivities take place invillage of Bodega at Watts Ranlocated at 16855 BodeHighway. For more informativisit the festival websitewww.winecountryfestivals.com

2www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WINE COUNTRY THIS W

Summer Fun at the Bodega Seafood Art & Wine Fes



FYI:E-mail content considerations to [email protected]

Jeffrycan be hearddiscussingwine country everyThursday at5:45pm ontheMontereyPeninsula's number 1 rated talkshow: www.ForLocalsOnly.com; withlive

digital streamingfromthe legendaryKRML Jazz & BluesRadio, in Carmel.

HotTicketsGrape To Glass is an unforgettable

journey through the heart of Sonoma County the Russian River Valley. Take this opportu-nity to experience an amazing list of uniqueand educational wine tours and panel discus-sions, go behind-the-scenes through beautifulvineyards and wineries and meet some of theRussian River Valleys most respected growersand winemakers. Those looking for lighterfare can chose: cinema screenings, balloonrides, kayaking on the river, barbecue and awhole lot more. Happening August 14ththrough the 16th, complete weekend pack-ages begin at $450 per person, individual

events start at $35. Tickets recently went onsale and will sell out. To purchase, go towww.rrvw.org or call (707) 521-2534. FYI:Grape To Glass has added a new feature a ship-ping service. Now you can purchase wine that willbe packed and shipped home for you, so you cango about your outing without worrying if yourwine is cooking in the hot summer heat.

Star ScreeningRelax under the stars for the best in vintage

films and wine to benefit the Stars & VinesFund of Napa Valley. During four separateweekend dates, Sterling Vineyards presentsa series of outdoor screenings which includesa pre-show tasting, cartoon classics and someof the most entertaining movies ever made.Showing Saturday, August 15th, is The BigClock, starring Ray Milland, as a careerobsessed magazine editor who becomesframed for the murder of his publishersmistress. Wine tasting and concessions beginsat 7 p.m. and each feature starts at dusk.

Guests are invited to come early, dress warmlyand bring a picnic or purchase a barbecuedinner or movie snacks. Ticket are $10 foradults and $5 for children (16 and under).For more information, visit the website atwww.SterlingVineyards.com or call 1-800-726-6136. FYI: On August 22nd, take a tramride back to the 60s and enjoy an evening at Ster-ling Vineyards for a one-night-only event cele-brating 40 years of superb winemaking.Findfood and wine stations, 1969 memorabilia

and live 69-style musical entertainment allthroughout the winery, along with special salepricing on select wines. Advance reservationsare required. Tickets are $69 per person, $59for Cellar Club members. For details, call 1-800-726-6136 orwww.SterlingVineyards.com.

Hip HappeningFor the past 19 years, Rodney Strong has

presented Sonoma County and the North Baywith a stellar musical lineup for its annualJazz in the Vineyard summer concertseries. This years schedule is highlighted byblue-eyed soul duo, Hall & Oats (September7th). Performing Saturday, August 22nd, issoulful singer/guitarist Susan Tedeschi alongwith R&B artist JJ Grey & Mofro. Tickets startat $45 per person. For more details, visitwww.RodneyStrong.com or call (949) 360-7800. FYI: For an additional $25, upgrade to aVIP ticket which includes a reserved seat in frontof the stage and a glass of Rodney Strong Vine- yards wine. Bring a picnic basket.

StellarSipsForty years ago, long before the world

began to recognize that Sonoma Countyterroir was some of the finest in the world, St.Francis Winery made the commitment tocraft wines exclusively from Sonoma. St.Francis now owns more than 600 estate acresof prime vineyards in the Sonoma andRussian River valleys. Under the direction of winemaker Tom Mackey, each of these vine-yards were planted with varietals that areparticularly well suited to the particularterroir of each site. St. Francis reaps therewards from the bounty of outstanding fruit

used to created luscious, fruit forward winesfrom superior mountain and valley vineyards.Each year, St. Francis celebrates SonomaCounty terroir with Dinner Under TheStars. Sharing a warm summers eveningunder a magnificent Sonoma sky has madethis annual gathering a perennial favorite withlocals and visitors alike. Winery Chef DavidBushs superb wine and food tasting menualways makes the evening sparkle. Tickets toattend the August 22nd dinner is $130 per

person. For more information, call 1-88675-6493 or go to www.StFranciswine.com

Something Old, Something New

The 36th oldest winery in Napa Valleyalso one of its best kept secrets. OBrEstate Winery truly lives up to the estatitle producing less than 5,000 cases per yeand crafting all their wines with grapes growon the familys 40 acre property in the OKnoll Appellation. Accomplished wstudents know that an important elementfine wine (besides the source) is crop yieOBrien Estate maintains a lower yieldacre in order to achieve a high standardfruit quality. Enophiles will also be happylearn that the estate farms using widspacing between vines and vineyard rowhich allows for a greater amount of sunligto reach the grapes. Such demanding vinyard management results in fruit with richflavors in the juice and more intense colorthe skins. Although Estate Chardonnay aRos are on the menu, OBrien is the houseRed specializing in proprietary blendsCabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc aMerlot (Seduction being the winerys m

popular offering). Tastings are availaindoor or outside with enchanting vineyarviews. For a comprehensive visit, the ToExperience is not to be missed but callan appointment as tours are limited and thfamily needs time to ensure everyone hasoutstanding experience; (707) 252-846www.OBrienFamilyVineyard.com.

FYI: OBrien Estate Winery has introdunique wedding gift idea in their Romanti folio wine gift set. Perfect as a wedding gi

a gift for an engagement, honeymoon or ansary, the Romantic Portfolio contains a set wines, each named for a different phase of tionship. Showcased in a lacquered wood ptation case, three of the wines in this eleromantic gift set scored 90 points or higWine Spectator and won numerous gold mat wine competitions nationwide. This edition of 400 wine gift sets are personallyand numbered by Bart O'Brien, making true keepsake a new couple will treasure fo

What s hot this week by Jeffry R



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WINE COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

FLAMINGORESORT & SPA170roomsand suiteson10 acres,gardensettingwith heatedpool, nightclubwithentertain-

ment,TerraceGrillrestaurant, fitnesscenterand tenniscourts2777 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 HOTELLuxury hotelsituatedon historicSonoma Plaza.Six individuallydecorated roomswithking-size bed,whirlpoolbaths,fireplace andbalconies.Appointedwith antiquegrandeurpaired withmodernamenities.(707)996-9779480 First S treet E ast, S onoma www.ledsonhotel.com

KENWOOD INNAND SPAApremierSonomaCountydestinationfor discerningvisitorsseekinggracioustreat-ment, lushsurroundings,soothingpoolsandelegantaccommodationsall inaTuscanSetting. (707)833-129310400 SonomaHighway, Kenwood www.kenwoodinn.com

INNATTHE TIDESBay views, walking distance to shopping, restaurants; swimming pool, hot tub,fitness center, sauna; rooms with views and fireplaces; massage available;continental breakfast 1-800-541-7788800Highway One, BodegaBay www.InnattheTides.com

ROBINS NEST GUEST HOUSE (20665 W. Turner Road, Lodi www.robinsnestl

WINEAND ROSES HOTEL AND RESTAURANT2505 W. Turner Road (209) 33AMOROSAINN AND GARDENS

8400 E. Harney Lane (209) 36THE INN AT LOCKHOUSE

19960 Elliot Road, Lockeford (209) 72

LAMP LIGHTER INNTucked into anancient groveof treesand just stepsto thefamousCacharming innwithtwocottagesand four guestroomsinnand Sunsebreakfastboutiquehotels havebeen servingthe travelingpublicsin(831) 624-6046 www.carmellamplight

VAGABONDS INNVagabond's House Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in the m

finest restaurants, unique shops and well-known art galleriesfrom Clint Eastwood's Hog's Breath Inn.(831) 624-7738 www.vagabondsho

CASA DE CARMELAND MONTEVERDEINNSNestledin theheart ofCarmel-by-the-Sea.Just stepsfromOceanAvgalleriesand restaurants,the Innis onlyfive blocksfromthe miraclebeach. Style, comfort,location theseinnshave itall.Monte Verde & Ocean Ave., Carmel831 624-6046, www.carmelmonteverdeinn.com

LONE OAK LODGEVotedMontereyPeninsulaTravelPlannerBestValue.WithinminuteMontereyHarbor, shopping,taverns, restaurants,etc. Roomsavaila1-800-283-5663 www.loneoaklodg

LODI/WOODBRIDGE

SONOMACOUNTY COAST

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SONOMACOUNTY SONOMA

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CANDLELIGHT INNPrivate baths;TV/phone and AC; two-personmarble jacuzzis and fireplaces; balconies or

decks; three-course gourmet breakfast, horsdoeuvres, wine and sherry in the evening; luxu-rious 30'x60'; swimming pool1045Easum Drive, Napa1-800-624-0395 candlelightinn. com

Check out our websitefor more lodging options


NAPA VALLEY

Popular Tasting Showcases Small, Undiscov-ered Wineries at Fort Mason

One of the largest and most comprehen-

sive tastings of California wine in the world,the annual Family Winemakers of CaliforniaTasting in San Francisco, has emerged as thepremier opportunity for consumers to expe-rience the world of California wine underone roof. The 19th annual Family Wine-makers of California Tasting will be heldSunday, August 23, at Fort Mason in SanFrancisco. This popular event features 360family-owned wineries from Californias topwine regions and showcases some of Cali-fornias finest wines, many of them fromsmall, boutique wineries.

This comprehensive tasting gives

consumers first-hand access to newwineries, wines and grape varieties theymay never have heard of, and the wine-makers and winery owners themselves.From undiscovered gems to old favoritesand California wine classics, the Family

Winemakers Tasting is a rare opportunity totry Californias newest and best wines. Mostwineries in attendance are high-end, smallproduction (under 5,000 cases per year)wineries from a variety of regions aroundCalifornia, including Napa, Sonoma, SierraFoothills, Paso Robles, Mendocino andmore. And each year the event attracts morethan 50 new wineries that have not previ-

ously attended. Wisconsin cheeses andMarcel & Henri Pate are served at the eventto complement the wines.

The 19th Annual Family WinemakersCalifornia Tasting will be held at the FestiPavilion at Fort Mason Center in San Fr

cisco. Tickets are $50 per personadvance, $45 if ordered in groups of 10more, and $60 at the door. Tickets can bpurchased at www.familywinemakers.orgby calling 1-877-772-5425.

Family Winemakers of California wfounded in 1991 to give voice and presento small, family wineries in California. Tannual tasting started as an event for retand restaurant wine buyers. In 1997,consumer tasting was added to the evenand it quickly became popular wi

consumers looking to discover new win Additional information is availablewww.familywinemakers.org.

Family Winemakers of California Tasting, Augu

L O D G I N G



WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK |NAPA VALL

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SmartDesigns,DistinctExperiencesat Cuvaisons Two NapaValleyVisitorCentersCuvaison Estate Wines has turned its traditional tasting room

image on its head with two fresh, distinct and stunningly evocativevisitor environments. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the winery hasemployed the understated and progressive approach used in its wine-making to the sweeping design project, featuring an authentic focuson the specific place. Make that places. Unique in the region, Cuvaisonfeatures two distinct winery-based tasting rooms that togetherembrace the Napa Valley.

Located on the Silverado Trail, the re-design of the historic Calis-toga site is a contemporary take on the classic tasting environment warm and intimate, with an inviting tasting bar and tree-shaded picnicgrounds.

The Carneros site off Duhig Road graces the center of the winerys400-acre estate vineyards. Surrounded by rolling waves of vineyards,natural light plays a prominent role in the compelling design that blursthe distinction between indoors and out. Massive frameless glass doorsslide out of sight, opening to a terrace protected from the elements bythe building itself. With relaxing seated indoor and outdoor tastingsby appointment, Cuvaisons Carneros tasting room is the newestincentive to linger in Napa Valleys southern-most region easilyaccessible to Bay Area and Sacramento visitors.

For more information, call 1-800-253-9463 or visit the wineryscool new website at www.cuvaison.com.

Fresh Tasting Rooms UnderscoreWinerys Progressive Approach



NAPA VALLEY| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

by Charles Neave

Situated most conveniently on NapaValleys other main road, the scenicSilverado Trail, Luna Vineyards offers asophisticated but still wine country-friendlytasting experience at the northern end of thefamed Napa Valley.

If you have not been to the tasting room atLuna in a while, be prepared to be verysurprised. For when they call their facility Atasting tradition transformed that may actu-ally be a rather grand understatement. Fromthe moment you begin to approach the frontdoor from the vineyard-surrounded parkinglot and courtyard, you begin to notice thedifferences. The changes are subtle and not-so-subtle. But it is once you are inside thatyou realize just how complete and far-reaching the changes have been.

From the tasting room at the front, with itsstone wood-burning fireplace in the corner,stylishly patterned tile floors, coffered woodceiling, classic furnishings, Persian rugs and

soothing, old-world colors anchored by adark wood four-sided tasting bar in thecenter, to the Reserve Room behind (moregreat style, but with a barrel vaulted ceilingthis time) everything has changed. It hasbecome more of a tasting salon than simply atasting room, and a friendly and informativeone at that.

Up some stairs there is even a tower, openon four sides, where you can take in acre afteracre of vineyards. That is fine goal, andcertainly to be highly recommended, butshould you be looking for a place to proposethen, well, it has been used for that veryromantic purpose as well. However if wine isforemost on your agenda, though, it is theperfect spot to look down on the crush padand the big stainless steel crusher-destemmer,or across at the winery building itself, whichmakes up the third side of the open C-shapedlayout of Luna.

But back to the tasting room, because it isthere that you can sample Luna Vineyardshighly regarded Cabernet Sauvignons, the

Sangiovese and Merlots, and their popuPinot Grigio that contains just a hint

Chardonnay. On the Reserve menu therealso their Canto, a blend of CabernSangiovese and a small percentage of P

Verdot. By reservation, a cheese and wpairing and other wine education opportunties can be arranged in the Reserve Room.

As Luna president and CEO Mary ATsai has said, We like to have people cohere and live the ultimate Napa Valley expence. One visit and you will see exactly wshe means.

The tasting room at Luna Vineyardslocated 2921 Silverado Trail in Napa a miletwo from Silverado Resort and just norththe Napa city line. They are open daily fr10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Advanced reservatioare required for special Reserve Room tastias seating is very limited, call (707) 22474. For more information, call them(707) 255-5862 or take a look at thewebsite, www.lunavineyards.com.

Tasting Room of the Week:

LUNA VINEYARD


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by Michelle J. BakerImagine a single restaurant that is not only

wine countrys top-rated steak house, but haswine countrys top-rated bar, and a kitchenrun by wine countrys top-rated chef. Its a raretriple crown bestowed in the 2009 Best of Napa and Sonoma Valleys to Napas ownColes Chop House.

Coles is the second restaurant for GregCole, a chef trained at the Culinary Instituteof America in Hyde Park, New York whoopened his first Napa restaurant, the newCalifornia cuisine-inspired Celadon, in 1996.Greg says that in those days he alwayswondered why there was no great steak housein the city of Napa or even in all of NapaValley. Finally, after years of wondering, hedecided, if no one else is going to do it, I might as well.

And so, after some cross-country steak house research, Greg cameup with the concept of Coles Chop House a real steak house whereyou choose your cut of meat or fish and choose side dishes toconstruct your own meal. He wanted Coles to be a place where you

could celebrate a birthday, anniversary, graduation or other specialoccasion. In fact, Greg aimed to make it a dress up place, althoughas is customary in wine country, Napa casual attire is just fine, too.

Coles Chop House is in a historic building that was used as theexhibit hall during the Napa and Solano fairs in the late 1800s. Inside,its a spacious two-story restaurant, with exposed native stone wallsand original wood floors. Theres ample seating, including a mezza-nine overlooking the bustling main floor of the restaurant. A small barwith seating for ten is the perfect place to start your evening with asummer special: Strawberry Lemonade cocktail made with SilveradoTrail strawberries.

Chef de Cuisine Jess Mndez runs the kitchat Coles and also creates the restaurants daily aseasonal specials. Mndez, a native of JalisMexico who first worked with Greg Cole in 198has his own list of culinary accolades includicooking at the James Beard House by invitatialong with Cole.

While Coles is certainly about the chop and tsteak (including a selection of beautiful cutspork, lamb and aged beef), there is plentychoose from for those who prefer fish, includisalmon on the regular menu and a daily seafospecial. The a la carte sides include all you migexpect from a steak house: creamed spinacbaked or mashed potatoes, and onion rings,well as a surprise twist Greg borrowed from hfavorite breakfast: hash browns. This summer, oof the featured sides is a Sauted Sweet Wh

Corn with a Blue Cheese and Herb Compound Butter. Yum!Coles also boasts a very long wine list with plenty of choices, a

a clear leaning toward Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, tCabernet Sauvignon section of the wine list has grown so long that twine staff has separated it into the valleys distinct sub-appellation

along with concise descriptions at the front of each sub-appellatiosection of the areas Cabernet Sauvignon characteristics.For dessert at Coles, choose among all the classics: whiskey bre

pudding, cheesecake, brownie sundae and crme brulee. Theres althe very popular Bananas Foster, a recipe Greg adapted from tsignature dessert at Commanders Palace in New Orleans, brougflaming to the table.

Coles Chop House, located at 1122 Main Street in Napa, is opfor dinner from 5 till 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 5 till 10 p.mFridays and Saturdays. Reservations are recommended, especiallythe weekends, and can be made online or by calling (707) 224-6328

COLES CHOP HO

Jess Mndez




S T. H E L E N AHelp ZD Wines stomp grapes! This year, visitors will

discover the very essence of harvest season in Napa Valley. Itsabout the people, the wine, the beauty of the valley, andtaking full advantage of the season with a three-day harvestcelebration centered around ZDs 40th anniversary. Foundedin 1969, ZD Wines will host three days of food, wine andentertainment to commemorate four decades of winemaking.

WEEKENDHIGHLIGHTS

Friday,October 2 40th Anniversary AbacusXI DinnerKick-off the weekend celebration. 20 couples will check-

in to The Carneros Inn before enjoying an Abacus XI releaseat the Hilltop Dining Room.

Saturday,October 3 40thAnniversary FestivalBe 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 barrelauction of 2008 Founders Reserve Pinot Noir to benefit the di Rosa Art Alive.

Sunday,October 4 40th Anniversary Return to thePastat di RosaArt AliveGuests will join the deLeuze family at the di Rosa Art Alive at Winery Lake Vineyard, 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

ZD Wines Celebrates 40th Anniversary


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The Rosa Clara 2010 line of weddinggowns will be showcased as well as originalVianett designs on Saturday, August 22ndfrom 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Vianett BridalBoutique in the V Marketplace.

Zankyou.com writes about the 2010collection of Rosa Clara: Long lines, influ-

enced by the empire-line style with figurehugging skirts contrasted with other modelswith big skirts, and both styles bore flowersreminiscent of Elizabeth Fillmores use of floral appliques in her Secret Garden collec-tion.

There were also short wedding dresses,including a tulle ballerina-style skirt, Greek-inspired drop waisted pieces with beautifulbelts and beaded straps, and flapper-inspired

1920s style tiered dresses drenched in lowhite fringe.

An absolute favorite of Napa Valleys brand ladies! Vianett specializes in weddgowns, evening dresses and special-evattire. Whether browsing, buying or hopinthis is the stuff dreams are made of!

V Marketplace is open seven days a we10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is located at 6525

Washington Street in Yountville.

Ride , Wine & Dine with Us

+ Guide d Tours Kayaking Bicycle Rent als Bicycling Vacations

www.napavalleybiketours.com 1-877-336-2453

SERVIN

WINE COU

SINCE 19

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com 4

Y O U N T V I L L E

YountvilleYountvilleW H E R E S H O P P I N G M E E T S L I F E S T Y L E

Vianett Presents a Trunk Show of Rosa Clara 2010 We


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The Ultimate Harvest Party Celebratingwith Good Food, Good Friends and Great Wines

Admirers of Napa Valley wines now have a chance to deepen theirunderstanding of the growers role in the creation of these fine winesduring an authentic harvest celebration on Saturday, August 29 from6 to 10 p.m. at the Gamble Ranchs State Farm, Oakville. HarvestStomp is sponsored by the Napa Valley Grapegrowers (NVG), andproceeds will help fund their programs to preserve and promote NapaValley vineyards.

To fully appreciate the allure of the grape harvest in the NapaValley, one must experience it first-hand. An evening celebration in thevineyard will feature diverse wines from throughout the Napa Valleyand offer a chance to meet the growers who tend the grapes and makethe wines. Diners will be treated to an amazing pastiche of exhibition-style cuisine, presented with a theatrical flair. As they enter the

grounds, guests will be enveloped with aromas of seasonal Spanishpaella, Argentinean asado, roasted pigs, Mexican ceviche and oysterson the half shell. It will all blend with the scent of harvest, when theair is ripe with the smells of grapes, fermenting juice and late summerheat radiating from the soil. The evening will include dancing, a raffleand a live auction filled with a limited number of select, one-of-a-kindNapa Valley experiences.

Tickets for the Harvest Stomp evening are $100 per person. For

ticket information, visit www.harveststomp.org or call (707) 9448311 for more information.

About Napa Valley Grapegrowers

The Napa Valley Grapegrowers has played a vital role in strengtening Napa Valleys reputation as a world-class wine-growing regiofor over 34 years. Its purpose is to preserve Napa Valleys grapgrowing heritage, strengthen the wine industrys economic viabilitpromote environmentally and socially sustainable agriculture, ancommunicate the quality and character of Napa Valley vineyards.



Napa Valley Grapegrowers Announce Harvest Stomp

N A P AD O W N T O W N

Hands Across the Valley FundraGala at Trincheros Zinfandel Raby Michael Rockich

The 16th incarnation of Hands Across the Valley will take plaSaturday, August 29 on the grounds of Zinfandel Ranch at thTrinchero Family Estates in St. Helena. Always a highly anticipatglitzy gathering, more than 75 of the top wineries and restaurantfrom the Napa Valley will present their fine table wine and gourmcuisine for your enjoyment. Stroll among the numerous purveyosampling their delicious and uncommon hors doeuvres, delicaciand wines. Match various wine and food, or simply enjoy and revin the variety and creativity in the Napa Valley. Later a deliciobuffet style sit-down dinner will be served and a sumptuous V.I.Pdinner prepared by chef Bob Hurley.

The event was founded in 1994 when George Altamura and othcommunity leaders learned that funding for the Napa Food Banwas in short supply, and funding from the Federal Government wabeing reduced. This registered non-profit organization is committeto working toward the goal of a community without hunger. Thannual fundraising gala has raised more than $2,000,000 since itdebut to support Napa Valley Safety Net food programs includinthe Food Bank, Senior Nutrition Programs and programs that servhungry families throughout the County.

Adding excitement during the evening are the auctions. At th

silent auction you can leisurely evaluate the auction lots whitracking the bidding process of your favorites. For those preferrinrapid fire bidding, the live auction is the perfect answer. Boauctions will enable bidding for dining experiences, overnight packages and limited production artisan and cult wine lots. Finally,good way to cap a fine evening is to dance under the stars to thPride & Joy Band.

The

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