California Golf + Travel Summer 2021

COLLEGE GOLF: PEPPERDINE WINS IT ALL • GOLF GEAR: GOLF IS A WALKING GAME

SUMMER 2021

THE BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

MICHIGAN’S HARBOR SHORES RESORT GOLF INSTRUCTION BUILDING SPEED AND POWER

2

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

3

4

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

5

2

WINTER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

WINTER 2021

3

TITLEIST TSi1 DRIVER 99

$549

ea

TAYLORMADE SIM2 MAX DRIVER 99

$529

ea

TITLEIST TSi2 DRIVER 99

$549

TITLEIST TSi3 DRIVER 99

$549

ea

TAYLORMADE SIM2 MAX FAIRWAY 99

$299

ea

TITLEIST TSi4 DRIVER 99

$549

ea

TAYLORMADE SIM2 MAX RESCUE 99

$249

ea

TAYLORMADE SIM2 MAX IRONS 99

$799

ea

7PC STL

CALLAWAY EPIC SPEED DRIVER

$52999

ea

CALLAWAY APEX 21 IRONS

EPIC SPEED FAIRWAY 99

$299

$1294997PC STL

ea

CALLAWAY APEX PRO 21 IRONS

$1294997PC STL

GET A FREE CUSTOM CLUB FITTING IN-STORE!

CALLAWAY APEX DCB 21 IRONS

$1294997PC STL EXPERTS + TECHNOLOGY=

THE PERFECT FIT

UTILIZING THE BEST FITTING TECHNOLOGY IN THE RETAIL GOLF INDUSTRY! 8

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

90-DAY 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, return it to us within 90 days of purchase, and you will receive 100% store credit towards your next purchase. Buy with confidence!

PING G425 MAX DRIVER 99

$499

ea

COBRA RADSPEED DRIVER 99

$449

ea

PING G425 MAX FAIRWAY 99

PING G425 MAX HYBRID 99

COBRA RADSPEED FAIRWAY 99

COBRA RADSPEED HYBRID 99

$299

ea

$279

ea

$269

PING G425 IRONS 99

$874

ea

$229

COBRA RADSPEED IRONS 99

$899

ea

7PC STL

7PC STL

NEW!

TITLEIST PRO V1 & PRO V1x 99

$49

dz

TITLEIST TruFeel 99

$22

dz

CALLAWAY CHROME SOFT & CHROME SOFT X 99

$47

dz

CALLAWAY REVA DESIGNED FOR WOMEN 99

$22

dz

NEW!

TAYLORMADE TP5 & TP5x 99

$47

dz

TAYLORMADE DISTANCE+ $14.99 DZ

2 FOR $25 WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

SRIXON Z-STAR & Z-STAR XV 99

$42

dz

SRIXON Q-STAR TOUR DIVIDE 99

$32

dz

WORLDWIDEGOLFSHOPS.COM California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

9

CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL MAGAZINE

30

14

CONTENTS

SUMMER 2021 VOLUME 25, ISSUE 3 12 Editor’s Note

The Philosophy of Golf 14 College Golf Waves Win It All 24 British Open Follow the Jug… Add the Claret 30 Travel Michigan’s Harbor Shores 36 Golf Gear

Golf is a Walking Game 40 Golf Fashion Linksoul, G/Fore, and More 42 Golf Instruction Building Speed and Power 48 Whiskey Lore Dead Man’s Hand 50 J. Wilkes Pinot Noir The Best Pinot You’ve Never Tried

50 CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL PUBLISHER Eric Woods EDITOR Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D. ASSISTANT EDITOR Laird Hayes ART DIRECTOR Long Tran ASSOCIATE EDITORS Mike Stubbs, Ed Travis SENIOR WRITERS Randy Youngman, Jim Dover, Tom LaMarre CONTRIBUTORS Ian Leggatt, Ed Vyeda, Leonard Finkel, Tom Stankowski, Ken Lane PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Weinstein, Tom Neas, Mark Susson, Channing Benjamin TRAVEL EDITOR Larry Feldman EQUIPMENT EDITOR Scott Kramer, Ed Travis WINE + GOLF John Finney, Matt Palaferri CONTRIBUTING INSTRUCTORS Eric Lohman, Kris Moe, Perry Parker, Ted Norby, Scott Heyn, John Ortega, John Burckle Accounting Jep Pickett California Golf + Travel is published by Golf Lab Media LLC 1224 Village Way, Ste. D, Santa Ana CA 92705 Phone: (714) 542-4653 website: www.CalGolfNews.com California Golf + Travel is published bimonthly and distributed to California golf courses, country clubs, practice facilities, golf retailers, hotels, and resorts Entire contents of this publication is copyrighted Golf Lab Media LLC 2021, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner in whole or in part without the written permission from the publisher.

For subscriptions, go to calgolfnews.com and sign up online or send your name, address, phone number, and $20 to Golf Lab Media at the Above address.

For advertising opportunities and editorial information: Please call (714) 542-4653 or email to info@calgolfnews.com

Cover Photo Credit R&A 10

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

11

EDITOR’S NOTE NIETZSCHE AND THE “WILL TO POWER” TO TRANSFORM HOW YOU PERFORM ON THE COURSE It’s time for a little philosophy of golf again so let’s consider the German philosopher Frederich Nietzsche’s most famous idea: the Will to Power. This is one of his most complex if widely maligned ideas and I’ll sum it up here as “a ceaseless, irrational force in all individuals that is neither good nor bad and can be harnessed, mastered, transformed, and directed toward different ends.”

Nietzsche’s ideas on the will to power were influenced by the 19th century German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer’s The World as Will and Representation. Like Machiavelli and other pragmatists, Schopenhauer had a deeply pessimistic view of hu-man nature and believed that a “ceaselessly striving, irrational force he called ‘Will’ constituted the dynamic essence of the world” that “manifests and expresses itself through individuals in the ‘will to life’ that can be seen throughout nature and is the source of much misery because it is essentially insatiable.”

The only thing we humans can do to reduce this misery, he advises, is to find ways to sublimate and subdue it through, say, music or art—and, I would add, by mastering all aspects of your game. That’s a lot to process, I know. But we’re gonna quickly dig a little deeper here to get to the heart of the matter.

In The Birth of Tragedy, Nietzsche repeatedly refers to what he calls “a Dionysian Impulse” as the ultimate source of Greek tragedy. Like Schopenhauer’s will, Nietzsche tells us that this impulse “is an irrational force that surges up from dark origins and expresses itself in wild drunken frenzies and festivals of cruelty.”

Yikes is right! But he leaves us with a slight glimmer of hope because his later notion of the “Will to Power” retains bits of this idea of a cosmic, irrational force that can be “harnessed, mastered, and transformed in order to create something meaning-ful and beautiful.”

In other words, the Will to Power, as Nietzsche tells us, is neither good nor bad. It’s just a basic drive found in all individuals that can be mastered and expressed in an astonishingly wide variety of ways. Or as he might say: “Philosophers express the will to power into a will for truth. Scientists, into a will for facts.

Artists, into a will to create.” And golfers, I would add, into a will to power to master all aspects of their game.

But how is this done? Nietzsche would tell us to focus on what he calls “self-overcoming, self-mastery and self-transformation”— and this is where golf comes in again because “the will to power” can be harnessed and directed toward over-coming, mastering, and transforming all aspects of your game, whether it be chipping, pitching, putting or pounding it down the middle of the course.

You might not think that you have the power to do this, but you do. And here’s the key: No one can do it for you. Only you have the power to harness, transform and direct your will to power to truly improve and master your game. It could be as simple as practicing more often, working on your backswing, or altering your mental state from frustrated, anxious, and uptight to feeling happy, relaxed, grateful, and kind—both on and off the course.

Because let’s face it: playing and living well with others is what golf, and life, is all about!

And there you have it! Nietzsche and the “Will to Power” to transform how you perform on the course!

Enjoy your walk, Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D. 12

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

19

MEN’S COLLEGE GOLF

P

PEPPERDINE WINS!!!

epperdine got the chance it was denied last year and made the most of it. The Waves, who were ranked No. 1 in the nation in 2020 when the rest of the season was cancelled because of the Coronavirus pandemic, defeated Oklahoma, 3-2, in the match-play final to win the 2021 NCAA Championship at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Pepperdine claimed its second NCAA title, also having won it in 1997.

“It was hard to be that level (last year), have a chance at winning the National Championship, and be stopped short by Covid-19,” said Coach Michael Beard, a 2002 Pepperdine graduate from Palm Desert who returned to his alma mater in 2013 to coach the Waves.

“But we told our guys that even though last year was a lost chance, we have next year to look forward to, and they all came back better than they were. They wanted to prove something.”

Clay Feagler, a redshirt senior from Laguna Nigel, provided the Waves with the winning point when he pulled out a 1-up victory over Ben Lorenz of Oklahoma by halving the 18th hole with a four-foot par putt. Left-hander Joe Highsmith, a junior from Lakeland, Wash., gave Pepperdine a 4-and-3 victory over Garret Reband, and William Mouw, a sophomore from Chino, beat Quade Cummins, also by 4 and 3. Jonathan Brightwell of Oklahoma defeated Dylan Menante, a sophomore from 14

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Carlsbad, 1 up, and the Sooners’ other point came when Logan McCallister downed Joey Vrzich, a senior from El Cajon, also by 1 up.

“It’s just surreal to have to come down to No. 18 and win the final point here,” said Feagler, who could have left Pepperdine after last season. “The last three holes were so unnerving. I didn’t play all that well a year ago and wanted to come back and make up for it, but this is just unreal.”

It wasn’t easy. Pepperdine was ninth after the third round of stroke-play qualifying and had to climb into the top eight to have a chance to play for the National Championship, but rallied with a big final day to finish third. “We really stepped up big in that fourth round, which put us in the third slot,” Beard said. “The scores were so high that day, we probably could have made it with an average day because we were so close to the number, but we really went low.”

“We still would have made it, but we really came out to play in that fourth round and we rode that momentum into the next two days. We actually have a solid six-man team. We kept Joe Highsmith out the first day and then put him in, and he went 3-0 in match play. He’s tough to beat.”

In the quarterfinals of match play, the Waves defeated Florida State, 3-1-1, and in the semifinals they downed Oklahoma State, 3-0-2.

DYLAN MENANTE CARLSBAD, CA SAGE CREEK HS JOE HIGHSMITH LAKEWOOD, WA BELLARMINE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

CLAY FEAGLER LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA LAGUNA HILLS HS JOEY VRZICH EL CAJON, CA CHRISTIAN HS NEVADA

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

15

MEN’S COLLEGE GOLF Oklahoma took out Illinois, 3-2, in the quarterfinals, and upset top-seeded Arizona State, also by 3-2, in the semifinals, but couldn’t handle Pepperdine in the final.

Pepperdine loses Feagler and Menante, but has four of its top six players back, plus incoming freshman Ian Maspat of San Diego.

“We also have another good player, Derek Hitchner, coming back, so we have a good crew to give it another shot,” Beard said. “It would be nice to make a run and it’s hard to go backto-back, but we have strong four returning and that will be new motivation for them.”

Pepperdine earned its shot in the NCAA National Championships by finishing fourth in the NCAA West Regional at Tumble Creek Club at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, Wash.

East Tennessee captured the Regional title with a score of 280270-288—838, 14-under, followed by USF at 278-283-287—848, Wake Forest at 278-287-285—850, Pepperdine at 279-289-283—851 and Florida at 284-290-284—858.

Long Beach State finished 12th at 288-298-296—882, as the top five teams qualified for the national finals.

Shiso Go of East Tennessee State claimed the individual title at 70-68-67—205, while Vrzich of Pepperdine shot 69-7265—206 to tie for second with Alex Fitzpatrick of Wake Forest, who finished at 67-68-71—206, and Tristan Mandur of Utah totaled 68-68-71—207 to tie for fourth with Archie Davies of East Tennessee State, who wound up at 68-63-76—207. Rounding out the scoring for the Waves were Mouw, who shot 72-71-70—213 to tie for 16th with Feagler, who finished at 70-71-72—213, Highsmith in a tie for 39th at 68-75-77—220, and Menante in a tie for 61st at 76-76-76—228.

Earlier, the Waves won the West Coast Conference Championship by 24 strokes over Brigham Young at Reflection Bay Golf Club in Henderson, Nev., as Feagler and Menante tied for the individual title, while Highsmith tied for third, Vrzich tied for seventh and Mouw tied for 13th.

16

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

WILLIAM MOUW CHINO, CA ONTARIO CHRISTIAN HS

ALL-NEW 2021

QUEEN B SERIES micro honeycomb face milling | rose gold pvd finish proudly milled in the usa

QB6

QB11

QB12

85 WORLDWIDE TOUR WINS AND COUNTING... discover more at bettinardi.com

California Golf + Travel

SPRING 2021

17

WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF

STANFORD FRESHMAN HECK WINS NCAA WOMEN’S INDIVIDUAL TITLE

NCAA Division I Women’s Individual Championship winner Rachel Heck

From left-to-right Assistant Coach Maddie Sheils, Aline Krauter, Sadie Englemann, Brooke Seay, Angelina Ye, Rachel Heck, and Head Coach Anne Walker 18

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

PHOTO: STANFORD PHOTO

achel Heck went all the way to the head of the class in her freshman year at Stanford.

Heck, from Memphis, Tenn., claimed her fifth straight victory and sixth of 2021 by becoming the first Cardinal to win the NCAA Division I Women’s Individual Championship, defeating Emma Spitz of UCLA by one stroke at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz.

“I dreamed about this, but you have to realize there are 140 amazing players here and it’s four days,” said Heck, who became the ninth freshman to claim the title by finishing with six straight pars.

PHOTO: STANFORD PHOTO

R

TAKE A DRIVE ON OUR FAIRWAY. You’ll always be able to Play It Up on our course. The BMW Performance Driving School in Thermal, California, (near PGA West) has the latest BMWs and a group of professional driving instructors (the pros on our course) who are just waiting to help you take your game to the next level.

Book now and get 15% off any class with code 21CGTSC15.* For more information, visit BMWPerformanceCenter.com or call 888-345-4269.

*Valid through August 31, 2021. M4 GT4 Experience, Private Instruction, and groups of more than 4 excluded. ©2021 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

California Golf + Travel

12239_California_Golf-Travel_Ad.indd 1

SUMMER 2021

13

3/29/21 9:41 AM

PHOTO: STANFORD PHOTO

WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF

Standford’s Rachel Heck “Our Fall Season was cancelled and we weren’t even on campus because of Covid19, so we were just happy to get a chance to play. There’s no way I thought then that I would be standing here holding this trophy.”

Heck posted a score of 69-67-70-74— 280, 8-under-par, while Spitz finished at 72-70-71-68—281, and Angelina Ye of Stanford was third at 77-69-65-71—282.

Heck led Stanford, coached by Anne Walker, to the top-seed in the stroke-play qualifying that led to the sudden-death match play portion of the tournament, which determined the national champion.

However, the Cardinal were upset by Arizona State, 3-2, in the quarterfinals and Mississippi went on to claim the NCAA Championship.

A few days later, Heck was named winner of the 2021 ANNIKA Award as the best player in women’s college golf.

“It is unreal,” said Heck, who broke the NCAA women’s single-season scoring average record this season with a mark of 69.72, beating the 69.76 set by Lauren Stephenson of Alabama in 2018.

“I remember in high school the ANNIKA 20

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Award Instagram page followed me and I was freaking out. My biggest role model in golf is Annika (Sorenstam).”

Earlier, Heck and Ye finished 1-2 and led Stanford to victory in the NCAA Women’s West Regional Championships at Stanford Golf Course in Palo Alto.

Stanford posted a score of 272-271281—824, 28-under-par, while Wake Forest was second at 286-280-288—854, followed by Oklahoma State at 287-282286—855, Virginia Tech at 282-283-291— 856, Arizona at 289-289-279—857 and USC at 288-283-289—860.

The top six teams advanced to the national finals.

USC had beaten Stanford by five strokes to capture its second straight Pacific 12 Conference Women’s Championship, and Heck claimed the individual title at Stanford.

The Trojans, who won the Pac-12 title in 2019 but were unable to defend last year because of the Coronavirus pandemic, claimed their eighth conference championship with at score of 283-287-279— 849, 3-under-par, followed by Stanford at 289-286-279—854.

California Golf + Travel

NOV/DEC 2020

17

PHOTO: SCPGA

SCPGA

W

22

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Additionally, tournament results are sent to our list of college coaches in an effort to help our juniors gain the recognition they need to be noticed by some of the leading universities in men’s and women’s golf.

If you haven’t already joined the SCPGA Junior Tour for the 2021 season, there are still ample playing opportunities ahead along with the previously mentioned perks provided with your membership.

If you have any questions or want to become a member, visit scpgajrtour.com.

PHOTO: SCPGA

ith more than 3,000 annual members and over 290 tournaments conducted each year, the SCPGA Junior Tour boasts one of the largest junior programs in the country. Players of all skill-levels are welcomed into our three-tiered program — Junior Development Tour, Players Tour, Toyota Tour Cup — which is designed to help players sharpen their skills and progress at their own pace. The program has also produced some of the PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour’s most formidable competitors with countless alumni including: Tiger Woods, Lizette Salas, Rickie Fowler, Danielle Kang, Collin Morikawa, Matthew Wolff, Max Homa, Patrick Cantlay, Angel Yin, Xander Schauffele, Mo Martin, Haley Moore, and many more. Some of today’s brightest collegiate and amateur stars are either members, or former members, of the SCPGA Jr. Tour - Rose Zhang, Amari Avery, William Mouw, Ricky Castillo, and Alexa Melton.

In addition to being able to compete in many tournaments year-round, what other benefits are there to joining the Junior Tour program? Well, Junior Tour members have the capability to sign up for an established handicap index through the SCGA, a $60 value free of charge. Also, each member will have access to the exclusive SCPGA Virtual Golf Shop which offers discounts to over a dozen vendors in the golf industry. For example, you will find discounts for items such as range finders, golf apparel, golf swing analyzer products, and mobile launch monitor devices to name a few.

For members who are looking for exposure and to take their game to the next level, the Players Tour and Toyota Tour Cup provide an opportunity to establish a national ranking by competing in multi-day events. All multi-day events on the Players Tour and all Toyota Tour Cup events are ranked by Junior Golf Scoreboard and submitted to AJGA for PBE status.

BRITISH OPEN

FOLLOW THE JUG …

ADD THE CLARET …

By JO MAES European Golf & Travel Media Association hane Lowry was always destined for greatness. To be the leading amateur golfer in Ireland during the McIlroy years was no mean feat and the rosy cheeked and spectacled chubby local lad went on to win the Irish Open at Baltray, one of Ireland’s top links courses while still an amateur. With a reasonable professional career already underway, nobody could have predicted what was to come next.

In 2019, the Open Championship returned to Royal Portrush on the Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland, first time it was to be held outside of Scotland or England since 1951 when again Portrush saw Max Faulkner lift the Claret Jug. Lowry is used to the links conditions, feels the turf in his fingertips, sees the contours and is able to use them. He thrives on the local meadow grass.

He can manufacture shots, left to right, right to left, high, low, bounce it … you name it. Portrush would also have been familiar from his Irish amateur days. The same could have been said for McIlroy who holds the course record until the changes to the course prior to the Open. McIlroy cracked under the expectations.

Lowry revelled in it and came out on top. Portrush felt very Irish that final Sunday and that is no mean feat given the history of the area.

24

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

PHOTO: THE R&A

S

Shane Lowry won the 2019 Open when it returned to Royal Portrush Golf Club to become the second champion from the Republic of Ireland.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

25

PHOTO: THE R&A

BRITISH OPEN

The first Open Championship was played on October 17, 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club in Ayrshire, Scotland, over three rounds at the twelve-hole links course.

The R&A uses a pool of courses for the Open Championship mixed between England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.. Most of these courses are open to the public and if you want history coupled with great course conditions, none better than some of the Open Championship venues. From the vast expanse on the North Sea coast that is Royal St George’s, a beast of a course with no protection from the elements to the deep bunkers and the Barry Burn at Carnoustie, every Open Championship course has its own defences. The humps and hollows, valleys and dunes of Portrush and the private nature of Muirfield provide golfers with that same Open Championship experience.

This year’s Open Championship, cancelled last year due to Corona, will be the 149th staging. No tournament in the world is so iconic and full of history.

As golfers we all remember the duel in the sun, Tom Watson narrowly making history at Turnberry, the wild antics of

26

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Jordan Spieth, the emergence of Justin Rose … Tiger, Nicklaus, Mickelson, McIlroy, Els, Oosthuizen, Harrington, and even further back in time, Faldo, Norman, Seve … you name them. When you play an Open venue, you always get the championship experience. This year, Royal St George’s is the venue and the Kent layout was the first course to host an Open outside of Scotland.

Organised by The R&A, based in St Andrews, it tends to host the Open at the Old Course every five years. They will make an exception in 2022 because of the 150th staging when the championship returns to the holy golf ground that is the Old Course, the Home of Golf. Many golfers have taken the trip to the historic university and golf town on Scotland’s east coast. Give or take an hour from Edinburgh, St Andrews should really be on every golfer’s bucket list. Golf comes out of its pores, the selection of courses is second to none and there are some idiosyncrasies that

Tee up. Trend on.

Endoresed by Joost Luiten Six-time European Winner

www.ducadelcosma.us California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

27

PHOTO: THE R&A

BRITISH OPEN

Old Course at St Andrews is considered the oldest course in the world and due to its special status it usually hosts the Open every five years. Old Course is closed on Sundays and is only open for the Open Championship and Dunhill Links.

makes visitors wonder. For example, there is no golf on the Old Course on Sundays. Exceptions are the Open and the Dunhill Links but the rest of the year the Old Course becomes a public park on Sundays and it’s not uncommon to see people picnic next to the Swilcan Bridge. The Old Course and the New, Jubilee, Castle etc. are not owned by the R&A; they are owned by the community and placed in a trust.

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews is one of the golf clubs that has playing rights on the course. The St Andrews Links Trust manages availability and pricing. A couple of days a year the course is played back to front as it was originally laid out that way.

The Old Course is bunkered to the gills but hardly any of them are visible when you play the normal routing. They all face away from play as the course was laid out in reverse. The Old Course has many double greens and some of them are massive. The numbers all add up to

28

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

18, so 2 shares with 16, 3 shares with 15 and so forth. The best option off the tee on most holes is left and when you get a caddy they will point out lines to you that look dodgy at best but you will have to trust him - he knows. Whack it left on all holes except 9 and 10 where right is the better option. Nobody will design a hole nowadays with a hotel in the way. The iconic Old Course Hotel has some outbuildings and old railway sheds which golfers have to hit over.

Yes, the Old Course, like most traditional courses, was built along a railway as that was the only way people could get to and from the course back in the day.

The Open Championship is the mother of all golf tournaments and its courses are the best in the business. Get yourself to Scotland, England and Northern Ireland and sample what is arguably one of the best golf experiences you can have. The only condition is that you have to take your golf seriously or you’ll go home humbled.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

27

GOLF & TRAVEL

MICHIGAN’S HARBOR SHORES COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATION VALIDATES BOLD VISION AND $900 MILLION STRATEGIC INVESTMENT

W

hen execs from Whirlpool (global manufacturer of home appliances and brands like Maytag and KitchenAid) made the fateful decision to develop Harbor Shores Resort and transform its hometown of Benton Harbor in Southwest Michigan, it was unknown how a development of this magnitude with golf as its anchor could help turn a city around.

Now a full decade later, Harbor Shores has far exceeded its vision to transform a once-thriving manufacturing hub into a beautiful and robust residential and recreational development that would serve and promote the local community, and has yielded immense economic impact to the cities of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph.

30

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

31

GOLF & TRAVEL

The Nicklaus course at Harbor Shores sits on a site where 6,000 manufacturing jobs were lost over an 18-month period in the 1980s.

Most of these buildings sat empty for years, leaving roughly three million square feet of industrial materials and contaminated soil—enough to fill a football field 80 feet tall. In 2008, that property had a state equalized value of $0. By 2017, the same land had a taxable value of nearly $37 million.

“Before construction of Harbor Shores began, the area was in need of a monumental project that could have the scale to bring about real change, especially in Benton Harbor,” said Jeff Noel, Vice President of Communication & Public Affairs for Whirlpool Corp. “Using golf to bring people together to give back remains an ongoing mission and is the proud center of the Harbor Shores story.”

Harbor Shores development on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Paw Paw River. Monuments next to teeing areas give visitors an inspirational glimpse of how far this land, and the surrounding community, have

ICONIC GOLF WITH A VITAL PURPOSE The 6,852-yard, par-71 Jack Nicklaus Signature design is a key component of the $500 million core 32

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

come in just one decade.

Harbor Shores has become a mustplay among Midwest destinations, courtesy of a captivating layout that winds through four distinct terrains at the convergence of the Lake

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

33

GOLF & TRAVEL

Michigan shoreline and the meandering Paw Paw River. Nicklaus’ engaging routing reveals a commitment to naturalism and letting the flow and contour of the land dictate the aesthetics and playability. The course features roughly-hewn bunkers, exposed native areas and a gentle touch that allows stunning features, like towering coastal sand dunes at holes 7, 8 and 9, to shine.

“Harbor Shores delivers an extremely satisfying 18-hole round through one of the most diverse pieces of property in the region,” says general manager Joshua Doxtator.

“The golf course is as intriguing as it is beautiful and it really takes you on a journey through an unforgettable combination of wetlands, forested land, dunes along Lake Michigan and riverfront holes.”

The short par-3 second and neardrivable par-4 third help ease you into the round. Number 2 plays 174 yards over a massive exposed dune formation. The buildup continues with the long risk-reward par-5 fifth and the challenging par-4 sixth, 34

SUMMER 2021

where a drive over wetlands sets up an approach to a green guarded by a ravine on the right.

Harbor Shores’ most-photographed par four, the 436-yard, dogleg-right 7th, is arguably its most demanding.

From an island teeing ground, drives must navigate bunkers and a lake in the right portion of the landing area to position an uphill approach into a small green built into the dunes that overlook the beachfront and Lake Michigan. The eighth hole follows with a challenging drive along the sandy ridge, leaving an approach to a green tucked into the dunes.

Driving past Jack’s Place halfway house takes golfers to holes 10 through 13, which play through woodlands and wind through rolling hills, ravines and a hardwood forest.

The 10th hole is a reachable par 5 for longer hitters, but don’t be fooled.

The massive 10,000 square foot green is reminiscent of a Himalayas Putting Course in Scotland. It’s also the site of Harbor Shores’ most famous hole-out. During the course’s grand opening, Nicklaus was paired

California Golf + Travel

with playing legends Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson and Johnny Miller and responded to Miller’s protestation that the 120-foot putt from the green’s lower level was “impossible” by promptly draining it.

The finishing holes, 14 through 18, border the Paw Paw River, Ox Creek and its wetlands, providing scenic and exciting shot values, like the views into the greens at 14 and 15 over the Paw Paw. The 420-yard, par-4 18th finishes along a serene stretch of the river in a well-treed hollow.

The Inn at Harbor Shores is a 92-room luxury hotel on the St. Joseph River with 14 luxury suites, rooftop meeting space and a wide selection of dining options. Next to the Inn, guests and locals may enjoy a 100-slip deep-water marina that can accommodate boats up to 90 feet long.

Harbor Shores Resort sits just 90 minutes east of Chicago, making it a convenient, serene Midwest getaway destination.

Visit www.harborshoresresort.com to learn more.

RIGHT SIDE AD

From the coast to the desert A N D E VE RY WHE R E IN B E T W EEN

NEW LIS T I N G 1 81 8 WE ST O C EA NFR O NT N E W P O RT B E A C H , C A $ 3, 7 9 5,0 0 0

Mark Stanga Realtor® 949.447.0393 mark.stanga@compass.com DRE 01991368

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

35

EQUIPMENT

GOLF IS A WALKING

By ED TRAVIS et’s face it. Golf is best when we walk. It is more relaxing plus there is the allure of a truly positive connection to the great outdoors not to mention walking is better exercise and for some of us even our game seems to improve.

Whether the last is true or not, the feeling is certainly there.

We have been through some very trying times for the past year and a half and almost immediately golf became a great antidote to “cabin fever” and the number of golfers and number of rounds played exploded…but so has the number of us choosing to walk rather than ride.

The staff of California Golf + Travel likes to walk and carry our bag but on the days we rather not carry the choice of a trolley can make a big difference. Here a few bags and trolleys we like, and think are worth your consideration.

L

36

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

GAME

MGI Zip Navigator Electric Caddy A remote control directs the Zip Navigator in any direction forward or reverse and allows speed to be matched to player’s pace. When going downhill speed is automatically adjusted for safety and uphill a foldable rear fourth wheel increases stability. Power comes from two 230-watt motors driven by a longlasting lithium ion 24-volt battery that MGI says is rated for 36 holes. Weight with the battery installed is 35 lbs. and in just three steps it folds for transport to 27.5 x 18.5 x 16.5 inches. Without the battery the frame is just 28.6 lbs., and a nice feature is the Zip Navigator can be folded with the battery in place.

Users will also like that the Zip Navigator has MGI’s patented Gyroscope Straighter Tracker technology, so the buggy maintains direction across rough patches of terrain. The rear wheels have a rugged tread for gripping even on slopes and the dual front wheels swivel 360° for precise maneuvering but are also lockable when desired. Numerous accessories are available as add-ons such as an umbrella bracket, scorecard holder, smartphone or GPS holder, a handy drink holder and a travel bag.

Learn more at mgigolf.com

San Vicente Golf Resort’s newly renovated greens and bunkers offer a fun, but challenging, game. The five sets of tees range from 4,483 to 6,822 yards and accommodate all skill levels. The lodge is only steps to the course, restaurants and lounge — and close to local wineries and world-famous attractions.

sanvicenteresort.com View our golf course renovation, lodging, resort amenities and more.

800-776-1289 x 4000

24157 San Vicente Rd., Ramona, CA 92065

EQUIPMENT

Linksoul Linksouldier Sunday Carry Bag ($180) A single/double strap makes this the perfect lighter weight (a mere 2.8 lbs.) carry bag for a quick nine after work or a leisurely round with the kids with a few clubs. Lots of pockets and they didn’t forget a cozy little slot for your resealable adult beverage container or water bottle. Side pocket with Linksouldier patch unzips completely for embroidering and there are durable handle grips on both ends for lifting.

Cobra Ultralight Stand Bag ($189) This very light—just 4.5 lbs.— bag has a dual strap making it convenient to carry and the wide stance legs and flexible base of the Ultralight make it stable when on the ground. The top has five full length dividers and there are eight pockets for “stuff.” The large apparel pocket has a handy clip for keys and the valuables pocket is fleece lined.

The beverage pocket is insulated and even accommodates a large water bottle.

Ping Hoofer 14 Stand Bag ($250) This 14-way top version of an old favorite Hoofer weighs 5.5 lbs. and has the rain hood attached inside the hip pad, which solves the problem of finding it when it is really needed. The strap converts from single to double and there is a channel for the cart strap when riding. Eleven pockets including ones for a rangefinder, a full-length apparel pocket, valuables, and a beverage. Five color combination from which to choose.

Vessel Player III Stand Bag ($375) Made from a quality synthetic leather the Player III is both durable and water resistant. The bag weighs just 6.3 lbs. and a 14-way top with full length dividers for club protection and a 6-way top is also available. A self-adjusting double strap is standard and stability on the ground is a sure thing with the wide carbon fiber legs and rotator base. There is a range finder pocket plus ones for valuables, apparel, and beverages plus even a pen.

38

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Sun Mountain 3.5 LS Stand Bag ($240) This light (3.8 lbs.) stand bag is packed with features golfers want starting with Sun Mountain’s comfortable X-Strap that is thicker for added padding and serves both as a double or single strap. The ultra-lightweight carbon fiber legs hold the bag in position even on uneven terrain.

The 9-inch top is 4-way, and the bag has nine pockets including a full-length apparel pocket and a water-resistant velour lined for valuables.

MNML Golf Bag V2 ($249) This minimalist design has some neat features such as a solar battery pack and charger for your smartphone and a built-in Bluetooth speaker for tunes on the course plus there is a pocket on the left side that holds your phone in a convenient position to video record your swing. At 5 lbs. with a backpack strap, the V2 is easy to carry and has an internal stand mechanism. Four dividers—two full-length—plus a beverage pocket.

Sun Mountain Pathfinder 4 Pushcart ($230) Though the Pathfinder 4 has been on the market for a couple of years it still compares favorably with other pushcarts because it has the features golfers want. It is light at just 17 lbs. and folds to 26 x 16 x 14 inches in two easy steps plus the bungee cords on the upper and lower brackets hold your bag securely over uneven surfaces. The handle console is roomy and there is a mesh basket below plus a velour lined pouch.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

39

EQUIPMENT

SUMMER SUMMER FASHION FASHION

By ED TRAVIS he old saying is, “If you can’t play good, you might as well look good” and summertime fashion offers lots of ways to do that…even if we do play well. With that in mind California Golf took a look at the newest products available that are ideal for hot weather golf while offering a bit of fashion, loads of style and performance for your game.

T

Duca Del Cosma Flyer Golf Shoe Style, comfort and high performance are all part of the Duca Del Cosma Men’s Flyer golf shoe story. The nappa leather uppers are a distinctive navy color stylishly trimmed in the lighter shade kobalt. The memory foam cork cushioned insole is anti-bacterial and even in the rain the Aqua sock sealed bootie keeps feet dry while the Duca nub covered outsole ensures traction needed whether walking the course or swinging the club. $229

Olukai Ulele Men’s Beach Sandals Everyone seems to be wearing sandals and Olukai is known for making ones with an eye pleasing Hawaiian look of quality construction and the Ulele is perfect on the way to the course or on the beach. Uppers are laser-cut synthetic straps with microfiber on the inside and a soft toe post while the midsole is made of compression molded EVA. Outsoles are especially made of wet-grip rubber with a lug design. Eight colors $75.

40

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

Bettinardi Custom Belt Buckle Bettinardi putters are known around the world, but your summer wardrobe would not be complete without a custom Bettinardi belt buckle of your own design.

Milled from a solid block of stainless steel just like their award-winning putters, the buckle is 1 ½” wide and may be paired with one of their genuine full grain leather belts for a unique individualized look. Order by calling (708) 802-7400. Buckle $250 belt $75.

Kaenon Silverwood Polarized Sunglasses Kaenon creates their sunglasses in California and makes them in Italy producing top quality models. The Silverwood Polarized model is great for golf since they are light weight, just 27 grams, and have flexible frames with corrosion-resistant hinges holding the SR-91 Polarized lenses. The recessed nose pads are hypoallergenic. Two color choices are offered: Matte Black + Tortoise and Matte Tortoise each priced at $179.

G/Fore Maverick Hybrid Short Made from a soft, lightweight moisture wicking fabric of 90% polyester and 10% Spandex with a choice of two colors Monument or Onyx, the Maverick Hybrid short may well be your favorite. The 4-way stretch gives freedom of movement anytime. Pockets are mesh lined and the rear pocket has a zip closure for valuables. Everyone will appreciate the distinctive tonal grosgrain details at the pockets, loops, and band. $145

Linksoul Boardwalker AC Short A do-anything, go-anywhere short, the Boardwalker AC looks great and fits great with the textured fabric perforated to help the wearer keep cool in the higher summer temperatures. Boardwalker’s are made from 92% poly and 8% Spandex, so they wear and wash just the way you hope all your shorts would. Five colors from which to choose: black, gray, navy, true black and army. Each pair retails for $76.

Linksoul Aldo Crew Tee Every guy wears tees and Linksoul’s Aldo Crew Tee will become an instant favorite.

The fabric is something new, a hybrid that is a blend of 58% organic cotton and 42% recycled polyester, so it is both comfortable and moisture wicking. The shirt is slightly fitted giving a trim yet casual look for everyday wear. $50 with a choice of seven colors including Cashmere Sand, Slate, Black, White and Sandalwood.

Melin A-Game Mickelson Hydro Cap Designed in collaboration with Phil Mickelson this cap is a must for Lefty’s fans and features his logo on the front. The crown’s outside has hydrophobic panels laser perforated on the side and rear for breathability and the inside has a moisture wicking front panels with a hidden pocket for money or keys.

The sweat band is antimicrobial, and the visor has a hydrophobic exterior.

Custom soft touch rear snapback. $69

Raen Myles Sunglasses The classic look of quality sunglasses has been tweaked making the Myles from Raen a distinctive statement on and off the course. The lenses are bronze-tinted CR-39 from Carl Zeiss Vision with complete UVA/UVB protection, and the frames are constructed of eco-friendly thermoplastic M49 Bioplastic or zyl acetate with strong five-barrel hinges. Five frame colors from which to choose priced from $140.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

41

GOLF TIP

BOX DRILL INDOORS OR OUT

By RANDY CHANG ouring pros work endlessly on distance control when putting. The 2 most important aspects of distance control are, 1. Hitting your putt consistently in the center of the putter face.

2. Maintaining the sense of even tempo back and through and matching the distance you take the putter back with the distance you follow through.

We have all seen the tee drill that the pros use to help with hitting solid putts. This drill not only does the same but also makes you aware and helps you focus on path and distance control.

Get that box of your favorite golf balls you purchased recently and let us use it as a teaching aid! Start with a straight 5–6-foot putt which by tour standards is made approximately 70% of the time.

Set 2 sleeves parallel to each other leaving anywhere from ¼ to an 1/8 of an inch from the toe and heel of your putter head (pic below). Then, set the box behind the hole approximately 2 feet.

Practice making strokes without hitting the sides of the sleeves which will train your eyes, arms, and shoulders what a straight back and straight through path feels like and hitting the

T

42

SUMMER 2021

ball in the center of the putter face.

Make sure your head and knees stay perfectly still with minimal wrist movement and maintaining constant pressure in your hands.

Once you have mastered the path and center contact, pay attention to tempo and length of stroke. We want to have the sense that you match the distance you take the putter back with the distance you follow through (pic).

We see players either take the putter back real short and then accelerate or push the ball to the hole or take it back long and stop or hit at the ball. Either way leads to inconsistency in distance control. You also want to pay attention on an even pace going back and through, either a short or fast pace, ala Brandt Snedeker. Or a long smooth stroke like a Ben Crenshaw and Phil Mickelson. The reality is the putter will follow through farther than you take it back due to swinging the putter head with tempo and momentum through the impact area. But you want to feel like you are matching the distance and speed of the putt with the distance and speed of your stroke!

Find the combination of length of stroke and tempo without hitting the

California Golf + Travel

sleeves of balls and without hitting the box on the 30% of putts you may miss during this exercise. Move the sleeves back farther and farther to work on lag putting. The one last mechanical tip is, keep your head down and listen for the putt to drop into the hole!

RANDY CHANG PGA Director of Instruction Journey at Pechanga & Randy Chang Golf Schools www.randychangpga.com

GOLF TIP

1

2

BUILDING SPEED AND POWER

By DR. ALISON CURDT sing the ground properly to increase power and distance on shots has been a hot topic talked about in the golf industry. With the advent of technology, such as BodiTrack, instructors can know measure how much pressure a golfer puts into the ground in order to maximize efforts. Ground force reaction (GFR) has been discussed, debated, and taught to students who wish to use their legs better in the golf swing. I’ve come up with an easy explanation to help students understand this concept quicker so their golf game improves.

The load, squat, jump sequence is an easy way to describe the proper use of the legs to help students use the ground more effectively

U

44

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

to improve power and speed. This ultimately translates to more distance for the student.

There are two simple drills I prescribe that students can use in order to feel how much leg motion can be utilized in the swing.

Players who lack distance and control often over-use their upper body (hands and arms) and unfortunately this creates more variance in the golf shots. Using larger muscle groups, such as the core, legs, and hips create more reliable sources of motion. The first drill to practice with is the Single Leg Swing Drill.

Line up the golf ball with your lead leg, and pull back your trail leg so the toe in on the ground (See Picture 1). Next, you will make some swings utilizing your legs and upper body (see Picture 2). Most players will start

CHANGE YOUR GAME IN 2021

VIDEO GOLF LESSONS GOLFLABACADEMY.COM

717.542.4653

25% OFF INTRODUCTORY LESSON

PRIVATE LESSONS

CORPORATE EVENTS

“Golf Lab Academy is a great environment and changed my game forever. I consistently hit it 20 yards farther and more accurately.” – John Stuart

GOLF TIPS

BY APPOINTMENT MON-FRI 7AM – 7PM SATURDAY 7AM – 1PM

For more info call 714-542-4653 or email golflabmedia@outlook.com 1224 Village Way, Suite D • Santa Ana CA 92705 • www.GolfLabAcademy.com

GOLF TIP

3

4

this drill only swinging their upper body. What will happen naturally is the lead knee will flex in the downswing in order to maintain stability and balance. Next, it will begin to straighten, or “post,” right before impact so you’re able to swivel and rotate through. You can pick up clubhead speed with the drill immediately which will solidify the benefits and impact of using the ground quickly.

An easy way to understand the flexing and pushing into the ground to create force in the golf swing is through the use of a jump rope. If you look at the pictures of me demonstrating jumping rope (Pictures 3-4), you’ll see the knees flex right before I jump over the rope. As I leap into the air, the legs extend. The movement of knee flexion to exten-

46

SUMMER 2021

sion is what creates the force and energy to propel my body into the air. Golfers use this same extension action to create energy and power in the golf swing.

This idea will certainly challenge those who believe you should “keep your head down,” throughout the swing. Over the years we have seen many examples of tour players who squat lower in the downswing, then extend and “jump” through impact and into the finish position. This creates massive gains in power. Look at some of the game’s longest hitters: Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Lexi Thompson, and Brittney Lincicome.

Working on these two concepts will help you solidify the idea of ground reaction forces, and simplify how to use your legs in the swing to maximize power.

California Golf + Travel

DR. ALISON CURDT PGA Master Professional LPGA Master Professional www.alisoncurdtgolf.com

Y O U R S PA C E T O P L AY

BLO O MINGTO N | CO P P ER ROCK | CORAL CAN YON | D IX IE RED HILL S | EN TRADA | G REEN SPRI NG SA ND HO LLOW | SKY MO U NTAIN | SOUTHG ATE | ST. G EORG E | SUN BROOK | SUN RIVER | THE LED GE S

G R E AT E R Z I O N .CO M

CHRIS MILLER

EXPERIENCE WORLD CLASS GOLF & DINING

“DISTINGUISHED GOLF DESTINATION AWARD”

BY BOARDROOM MAGAZINE, FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE

“TOP 10 BEST DESERT COURSES”

■ GOLF

BY DESERT GOLF

■ DINING AT BELLATRIX ■ MEETING FACILITIES

“BEST PLACES TO PLAY”

BY GOLF TRAVEL ANNUAL

■ PGA GOLF INSTRUCTION

ETHAN KAMINSKY

BOOK YOUR TEE TIMES ONLINE NOW! www.classicclubgolf.com/book_tt

■

760.601.3600

LUNCH: 7 DAYS A WEEK FROM 11 AM • WINE BAR & DINNER: TUESDAY-SATURDAY CALL FOR RESERVATIONS: 760.601.3690

Classic Club is managed by Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management.

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED OFF I-10 IN PALM DESERT — 75-200 CLASSIC CLUB BLVD., PALM DESERT, CA 92211 www.classicclubgolf.com

Classic Club is managed by Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management.

California Golf + Travel

SUMMER 2021

47

LIFESTYLE

DEAD MAN’S HAND WHISKEY IS A WINNER T

he term “Dead Man’s Hand” comes from poker. As legend has it, that’s the poker hand famed gunfighter and gambler Wild Bill Hickock was holding— two black aces and two black eights—while playing five-card draw in a saloon when he was murdered on August 2, 1876, in Deadwood, South Dakota.

Presumably, Hickock was also drinking whiskey at the time.

These days, Dead Man’s Hand is a small batch of tasty whiskey that is distilled and bottled by a small but successful operation in Fairfield, Calif., owned by master distiller Brian Runkle.

“I actually started in about 2005 making wine, a Napa cab in a bottle, but we didn’t sell a ton of it,” said Runkle, who has only three employees. “So after a while, I bought a 150-gallon still, about 13 feet tall, plus some used oak barrels that were used to age wine, and we started making whiskey.

We can control everything if we make the whiskey ourselves.”

“We struggled for a while with the process,” he added, “finding distributors and the rest of it. There are only the four of us, so we are all pretty busy because we all have other jobs and spend a lot of time working at night. We do everything by hand and we roll all year long. We’ve been pretty lucky because now we’ve become pretty popular, with sort of a cult following all over the world.

It’s crazy.”

48

SUMMER 2021

California Golf + Travel

The whiskey is aged in toasted French oak barrels for an undisclosed amount of time, needing to be aged longer to come out at its best. The barrels bring out the delicious spiced oak, maple and caramel scents that complete a full-bodied, smooth finish to the whiskey.

Dead Man’s Hand Whiskey is hand-crafted from start to finish and comes in a collectible silk-screened bottle.

The mash bill is 75 percent corn, 21 percent rye and 4 percent barley, with 40 percent alcohol by volume. It’s a classic American whiskey that’s a nice, deep oak color and smells of oak, maple and vanilla while being slightly spiced with caramel notes. The finish is smooth, slightly dry, with a hint of oak and some sweetness. It has a big, sweet corn nose with butterscotch and spice in the background, and is fat on the palate.

Dead Man’s Hand Whiskey, either 80 or 94 proof, comes in an attractive 750ML bottle and can be purchased at liquor stores and other commercial outlets throughout California, Nevada, Texas and Arizona.

Runkle is planning to add a 1-liter bottle to the Dead Man’s Hand Whiskey line by the end of the year, just in time for the holidays.

Go to www.dmhwhiskey.com to purchase your bottle of Dead Man’s Hand Whiskey.

DRINK RESPONSIBLY

WINE SELECTION

J. Wilkes Pinot Noir

The Best Pinot You’ve Never Tried.....Yet

By MATT PALAFERRI hen we think of Pinot Noir from California, most people think of the Russian River or Carneros, but some of the greatest Pinot, among other varie-tals, are coming from the Santa Maria Valley. Winemaker Wes Hagen, one of the greatest ambassadors of the region and all-out great guy, makes wines that are varietally correct, and with purpose. What I mean by that, is that the wines taste how they are supposed to taste.

Everyone has a different palate, and that’s what makes wine and food so fantastic. No one opinion is right, no one opinion is wrong, just a difference of likes and levels of enjoyment. I for one, like a Pinot Noir that’s 100% Pinot. Nothing blended in it, nothing manipulated, and true to its character. Sometimes, well, a lot actually, I’ll open up a Pinot Noir for friends and it’s always followed with, “Wow, it’s so light in color.” Yes, that’s because Pinot isn’t supposed to look like crude oil folks! It should look and taste elegant, soft and ripe on the palate with an earthy finish that makes you want to have it with or without food.

Jeff Wilkes, in 2001, started his winery and focused on the Santa Maria Val-ley growing and making Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc.

The Pinot Blanc is one of my favorite wines in the world, but I won’t get side-tracked or Noir will get mad.

Trust me, Pinot Noir is a stubborn grape and likes all the attention it deserves. With Wes Hagen now making these wines, and from the vineyards they are getting the grapes from, these wines shine, and, in my humble opinion, are some of the best wines coming from California let alone Santa Maria.

Wes was rated as one of the top 100 influential winemakers in the United States and is one of the most passionate wine-makers I have ever met. He cares about making fantastic wine, taking care of the environment and promoting sustainable farming.

J. Wilkes Pinot Noir is ripe with red and black cherries with blueberry and an earthy finish that lingers. This wine is great by itself, but it just gets

W

50

SUMMER 2021

better with food. I would share this with friends over a nice seared duck breast, and if you’re not a duck person, try it with pork chops or even a mushroom risotto. Trust me on this wine, or anything from J. Wilkes, you won’t be disappointed. You can find this wine at nice wine shops and res-

California Golf + Travel

taurants that know their wine. If they don’t have it, ask for it! And if you are ever in Santa Barbara, they have a wonderful tasting room that is a must go-to if you love wine. JWilkes.com is where you can make a reservation.

Enjoy what you like and like what you drink! Until next time.

Luxury Goods Crafted for the Driven Filled with Purpose

Designed and Assembled in California vesselbags.com California Golf + Travel

NOV/DEC 2020

9

THE NEXT

GENERATION IS HERE

BEST EVER FEEL, PERFORMANCE & DURABILITY

After years of research and development, Winn is excited to introduce the next generation Dri-Tac. With improved feel and durability, the new Dri-Tac 2.0 represents the best of what Winn polymer technology has to offer.

winngrips.com | @winngrips | #winngrips California Golf + Travel

SPRING 2021

23