T H E
FEBRUARY 2016
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This exquisite French style home is located on a gorgeous cul-de-sac which backs to the prestigious Serrano Country Club. Built in 2013, the like new residence features a desirable open floor plan for today’s upscale living. This beautiful home includes both the master suite and a guest suite on the main living level. Main level also includes an impressive chef’s kitchen featuring extraordinary cabinetry, quartz countertops, high–end appliances and an oversized island.
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Largest Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye Selection in all of the Greater Sacramento Region
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
F E AT U R E S | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 6
CONTENTS
30 Brisk Beauty
February is the month of fashion and we are celebrating with a fun fashion spread featuring the face of Sacramento Fashion Week, and trending looks provided by our friends at Button Up Boutique.
38
The Bourbon & Whiskey Guide Not sure where to start when it comes to enjoying a bourbon or whiskey cocktail? Or want to know the difference between styles? Check out our complete Bourbon & Whiskey guide with history, tips, recommendations from local experts, and local spots with entertaining atmospheres that anyone can enjoy.
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
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CONTENTS
F E AT U R E S | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 6
46
19 | Lavish on Locals
22 | Lavish on Locals
24 | Lavish on Locals
27 | Lavish on Locals
ALEXA HAZELTON
RED HOT
THE KILIMANJARO CARRIER
TRENDING WITH DEBI
30 | Fashion
46 | Travel
51 | Sip & Savor
64 | Ettiquette Tidbits
ESSENTIAL TRANSITIONAL
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
CASCADA RESTAURANTE & CANTINA
VALENTINE'S DAY FAUX PAS
IN EVERY ISSUE: Lavish on Locals | Travel | Home & Design | Sip & Savor | Save the Dates SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
27 HOME AND DESIGN
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Menus, prices, and hours are subject to change. Early arrival recommended as extended wait times or a sell out can occur. Seating is limited to availability. LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016 7 Management reserves all rights. Problem Gambling? 1-800-GAMBLER
FEBRUARY 2016
PUBLISHER | EDITOR Lauren Sturman
CREATIVE DIRECTION Armando Garcia
SPORTS & LEISURE TRAVEL EDITOR Don Jackson MANAGING EDITOR Kelsey Wehsels CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Don & Ann Jackson Nick Dedier Serena Piper
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Karalee Morris Kristin Burke EDITORIAL INTERNS J. Nalani Kahae PHOTOGRAPHY Jeffery Warren Mark Harrington Tim Engle VIDEOGRAPHY Sea Stand Productions
Michael Stars | Free People | Hudson | Paige | Tolani Ella Moss | AG | Sanctuary | RB Couture | Veronica M
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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from this publisher. Photographs, graphics, and artwork are the property of Lavish Living Magazine. © 2016 Lavish Living, Inc.
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VISIT OUR THIRD STORE: printed on 10% recycled paper. All inks used contain a percentage of soy base. Our printer meets or exceeds all Federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards. Our printer is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
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SUBSCRIPTIONS: Visit our website for exclusive complimentary subscriptions not available to the general public. Call 916.358.3853 for details. You may also go online to lavishlivingmagazine.com and submit your request. Don’t miss another issue of Lavish Living Magazine.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, CALENDAR, DINING GUIDE: We welcome your input. Letters to the Editor must include your name, address (though these can be withheld on request), and a daytime phone number. Letters may be submitted via regular mail, fax, or e-mail (lauren@lavishlivingmagazine.com). Calendar events should include a basic description of the event; its time, date, place, and cost; and a phone number that readers may call for more information. The e-mail address for calendar items is (info@lavishlivingmagazine.com). To have a restaurant considered for our Dining Guide listings, contact us by phone or e-mail (lauren@lavishlivingmagazine.com). We also encourage you to contact us if your experience at a restaurant differs significantly from our listing. Information for these sections should be submitted at least six weeks prior to issue’s cover date.
WRITER’S GUIDELINES: Lavish Living Magazine is always on the lookout for story ideas and talented freelance writers. To suggest a story idea, contact us via mail, fax, or e-mail (lauren@lavishlivingmagazine.com). (Lavish Living Magazine accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that manuscripts or photography, solicited or unsolicited, will be returned.)
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Our Mission is to provide our customers with first class service and products, at value prices. Our Standards are Honesty, Integrity and Craftsmanship. 25065 Blue Ravine Rd., Ste. 110 • Folsom • 7095 Douglas Blvd., Ste. C (Julie Smith Design Center), Granite Bay, CA www.ddflooring.com • info@ddflooring.com • CA #931766
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
ADVERTISING: Lavish Living Magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective and upscale way to reach the area’s affluent consumers. Information about advertising is available on the Web at www.lavishlivingmagazine.com. Call 916.358.3853 to request a printed media kit.
SPONSORSHIPS: Lavish Living Magazine actively supports organizations that make our cities a better place to live and work. Submit sponsorship proposals to Lauren Sturman, Publisher, at (lauren@lavishlivingmagazine.com).
LEGALITIES: Lavish Living Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers contained herein. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Lavish Living Magazine or its owners. Lavish Living Magazine is not responsible for typographical errors or omissions.
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
13
PUBLISHER'S Letter
EDITOR'S NOTE
THE MONTH OF
CELEBRATING THE
Month of Love
W
“If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it.” – William Arthur Ward
e are officially through our first month of the New Year, and I am proud to say I am officially adjusted to 2016. We have so much going on this month, including Sacramento Fashion Week! Be sure to check out the shows and events, centered around this amazing week, displaying our local talent and new, fresh trends. Keep your eyes out for Lavish Living Magazine at the events, where you can meet our team! We were blessed to be able to shoot the face of Sacramento Fashion Week, Christine Alward, with renowned fashion photographer, Tim Engle, at the beautiful The Find Studio in downtown Sacramento. Be sure to check out the spread for upcoming trends from the experts at Button Up Boutique. Looking to dine out for Valentine's Day this year? Check out our Sip & Savor opener, Cascada Restaurante & Cantina, the perfect date night spot, or fun night out with the whole family. Be sure to try the pasta Mexicana - yum! If you are looking to get out of town for Valentine’s Day, or simply want an excuse to get away for a few days, check out our travel feature, where our travel editor shares his thoughts on Las Vegas, with something for every age and every interest. One of my favorite features this issue is our bourbon and whiskey feature where we break it all down for you in our little black handbook, the complete guide on the different types of bourbons, how to taste, cocktail recipes, and local picks thanks to the experts at Cibo 7, 36 Handles, and Dry Diggings Distillery. Be sure to check out these places and try some of their delicious cocktails or specialty selections on the rocks. Cheers! As always, thank you for your loyal readership, and I’ll see you in March
LAUREN STURMAN
Publisher / Editor in Chief
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LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
Visit our website at lavishlivingmagazine.com for online exclusives!
MONTH OF 2016
intimate hotel packages During the month of February, we have special hotel packages available or customize your own! Wine & Roses Hotel features beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites with amenities and unparalleled gracious hospitality.
passionate dining Towne House Restaurant features innovative dishes using the highest quality seasonal and regionally sourced ingredients. The Lounge is a roman tic spot to enjoy live music, cuisine, specialty cocktails, and fine wine. Make any night Valentine’s with 25% off all sparkling wines and champagne during the month of February (full bottle).
alluring spa treatments The Spa at Wine & Roses offers spa services and packages for women, men and couples. Relax in the plunge pools or steam room and enjoy a cozy moment in the tranquility room.
romantic gifts Find the perfect gift for him or her in The Nest, Or purchase a cooking class for two! And as always, W&R gift cards are available in any amount and can be used at the Hotel, Restaurant or Spa.
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LAVISH on LOCALS LOL
Alexa Hazelton
It was a chilly, but clear November day in 2015 when Alexa Hazleton walked into a restaurant. With eight years’ experience in the hospitality industry, this should have been no unusual day. But it was. Today was the opening day of her very own restaurant, Milestone, located in El Dorado Hills Town Center.
MILESTONE RESTAURANT BY KELSEY WEHSELS I PHOTOS JEFFERY WARRREN
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
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"It hadn’t hit me yet. It all happened so fast,” she explained. “I had no anxiety and I remember thinking I should have been more emotionally overwhelmed.” Hazelton is one of the partners of Milestone, along with Nick Dedier and Russell Okuibo, who also own Aji Japanese Bistro. While owning and running a restaurant was the goal for the Ohio-native to move to California in September 2015, it was not the initial objective of the move. “I came out here with the intention of being the operations manager at Aji Japanese Bistro and opening a restaurant in the next couple of years,” she said. “But the opportunity presented itself to us quicker than we thought and here we are.” She learned a lot about being a business owner at a young age, from her parents, who are business owners themselves – of a salon in Ohio. And while she admits the salon industry was never her calling, she learned valuable lessons. “It’s a different type of hospitality that I learned,” she said. “But I got to see what a partnership takes.” In fact, she never believed owning a business was in her future, as it was the art of dance that intrigued her the most. “I went to a dance recital when I was about 3 years old
and I nagged my mom to let me do it,” she said. “And I fell in love with it.” So much in fact, she went to Sarah Lawrence to study it. While she was given the opportunity to move to Los Angeles for a career, she knew getting a formal education would be more important for her future. After studying abroad in Scotland and India, she wanted to return to school to study urban design, so she took a job at Hotel Jerome in Colorado to help fund her new academic goal. Owned by Auberge Resorts, Hazelton had the opportunity to travel to different locations, where she soon met Nick Deider. While the two parted ways in search of other professional aspirations, the two kept in touch. Two and a half years later, Dedier presented Hazelton with the offer to come to El Dorado Hills and be the operations manager at Aji Japaense Bistro. Knowing she couldn’t let the opportunity pass her by, she gladly accepted. “I told myself ‘if you don’t do this, you’re just being stubborn,” she said. Moving to California the same month the lease was signed for Milestone, needless to say, she had her hands full,
and the process was intense. “There’s no other way to phrase it than to say it was all-consuming because it was,” she said. “You don’t think about anything else, and you find you’re having ideas in your sleep.”With so much going on, she credits the incredible staff for helping pull it off and stepping up. “They’re not all perfect, but they want to get it right,” she said. “And that makes them the best people for the job.” And, it can be a little hectic when opening a new restaurant with a new staff she explained. “It turns into ‘where are the forks?!’” she laughed. When she’s not working, (which is usually a rare moment), Hazelton can be found enjoying the outdoors with activities such as hiking and skiing. She also loves to read. Her current book? Raising the Barre, a book about dance. What has been one of the best parts about moving to the area and opening a restaurant has been the embrace of the community, according to Hazelton. “What I see about El Dorado Hills is the inside of the restaurant, but what I know about El Dorado Hills, is the people I have met,” she explained. “About 50% of the people who come in, give me a hug. And I’m a hugger,” she said with a smile.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: MILESTONE RESTAURANT 4359 Town Center Blvd, El Dorado Hills (916) 934-0790, milestonerestaurantedh.com 18
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
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“The idea was born from a medical need,” shares Kilimanjaro Carrier’s Franchiser Cinde Dolphin. Having undergone several surgeries in her fight against cancer (of which she’s been in remission for 3 years), Dolphin explains the often need to wear medical drains during wound healing. When given the opportunity to volunteer at a small Tanzanian village, Dolphin connected with the village’s own self-established microloan co-op called Mkombozi Women’s Group Emphasizing the beautifully generous nature of the “mamas” (as local women are endearingly referred) in the village, Dolphin explains, “It wasn’t about reaching a certain goal. It was about sharing our lives each day, accomplishments were
celebrated with families and included dancing, singing and occasionally, banana beer.” It was with the help of these women that medical drain carriers were designed and produced for patients needing them. Having found this initial project successful, Dolphin began to think outside the box for a more dynamic product alternative that was not limited to medical drain needs. “Aprons, worn by waiters at restaurants, seemed to be a good solution. Ugly drains can be tucked into apron pockets, and no one’s the wiser.” And the Kilimanjaro Carrier was born. Using only one treadle sewing machine and with the help of eight other women, the first prototype was created. Another forty were made
within the first two weeks. “A single Facebook post resulted in all 40 aprons being sold in about 12 hours. Actually more than 40 aprons sold. A wait-list for the item had to be started and individuals began ordering three or four at a time,” Dolphin explained. Now they are available for purchase online and in local shops in our surrounding area (Sacramento’s Piece of Mind Bead Shoppe and Delta Workshop to name a couple). They have proven popular with school teachers, hair stylists and artists alike. While each sold apron provides improving growth to living conditions, Kilimanjaro Carrier has taught the Mkombozi Women’s Group a different understanding about business models and offers inspiration
for them. As far as the ways it helps the co-op mamas, the earnings aide in various school fees, needed farming materials and, in one particular case, it helped upgrade someone’s home! These beautiful “Kili Carriers” offer much to a group of deserving people. An excerpt of Dolphin’s carefully crafted words: “Moshi, Tanzania. It’s a world much different than mine. People move at a different pace.They stop and listen.” It is this world Kilimanjaro Carrier continues to further enrich and maintain.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: kilimanjarocarrier.com
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Closing costs are generally between $150 and $1,500 but will vary depending on variable and may change at any time. Maximum APR is 18.00%. Minimum APR is 2.95% and is effective 1/1/2016. Rates are subject to change without notice. the state in which the property is located and loan amount. The APR will be based on the highest Prime Rate published in the Money Rates table of The Wall Street Journal on the last 2 Rate is for new EquityLines with an LTV of ≤ 80%. The bank will pay closing costs up to $1,500. Closing costs are generally between $150 and $1,500 but will vary depending on 1 Rate is for new EquityLines with an LTV of ≤ 80%. The customer is responsible for closing costs, which are generally between $150 and $1,500 but will vary depending on the state in business day of the previous calendar month, minus a margin of 0.01%. For LTVs > 80%, there is a 0.50% premium added to the APR. The current Prime Rate, as of 1/1/2016, is the state in which the property is located and loan amount. The APR will be based on the highest Prime Rate published in the Money Rates table of The Wall Street Journal on the last 3.50%. The APR is variable and may change at any time. Maximum APR is 18.00%. Minimum APR is 2.95% and is effective 1/1/2016. Rates are subject to change without notice. business day of the previous calendar month, minus a margin of 0.01%. For LTVs > 80%, there is a 0.50% premium added to the APR. The current Prime Rate, as of 1/1/2016, is which the property is located and loan amount. The APR will be based on the highest Prime Rate published in the Money Rates table of The Wall Street Journal on the last business day 3 Minimum line amount required is $25,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. 3.50%. The APR is variable and may change at any time. Maximum APR is 18.00%. Minimum APR is 2.95% and is effective 1/1/2016. Rates are subject to change without notice. of the previous calendar month, minus a margin of 0.51%. For LTVs > 80%, there is a 0.50% premium added to the APR. The current Prime Rate, as of 1/1/2016, is 3.50%. The APR is 3 Minimum line amount required is $25,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. 4 Minimum line amount required is $100,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. variable and may change at any time. Maximum APR is 18.00%. Minimum APR is 2.95% and is effective 1/1/2016. Rates are subject to change without notice. 4 Minimum line amount required is $100,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. 5 Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. 2 Rate is for new EquityLines with an LTV of ≤ 80%. The bank will pay closing costs up to $1,500. Closing costs are generally between $150 and $1,500 but will vary depending on 5 Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. the state in which the property is located and loan amount. The APR will be based on the highest Prime Rate published in the Money Rates table of The Wall Street Journal on the last Offer subject to change at any time. Offer subject to change at any time. business day of the previous calendar month, minus a margin of 0.01%. For LTVs > 80%, there is a 0.50% premium added to the APR. The current Prime Rate, as of 1/1/2016, is Property insurance is required. Title insurance and flood insurance may be required. Property insurance is required. Title insurance and flood insurance may be required. 3.50%. The APR is variable and may change at any time. Maximum APR is 18.00%. Minimum APR is 2.95% and is effective 1/1/2016. Rates are subject to change without notice. Account openings and credit are subject to Bank approval. Certain restrictions apply. Account openings and credit are subject to Bank approval. Certain restrictions apply. 3 Minimum line amount required is $25,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC. 4 Minimum line amount required is $100,000+ to waive monthly checking account service charge. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.
If you would like to learn more about a First Citizens EquityLine, talk to your banker today.
5 Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. PLH-054-12.15
Offer subject to change at any time. PLH-054-12.15 Property insurance is required. Title insurance and flood insurance may be required. Account openings and credit are subject to Bank approval. Certain restrictions apply.
firstcitizens.com firstcitizens.com
LAVISH ON LOCALS
TRENDING with
Debi
MARKET WILL IMPROVE IN 2016, BUT NOT WITHOUT CHALLENGES
LO L
Home sales activities in California remained solid in September, but the growth in sales has moderated since it peaked in July. In fact, the annual increase of 6.9 percent was the lowest since February 2015. The statewide median price also continued to improve at a moderate pace, with a year-over-year growth rate of 4.3 percent in September. The mild growth rate in price was attributed partly to the shift in the mix of sales, as sales activities in lower priced regions such as the Central Valley improved more significantly than the higher-priced San Francisco Bay Area in recent months. According to California Association of REALTORS速 (C.A.R.), sales of existing detached homes will increase 6.3 percent in 2016 to 433,000, and the statewide
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
25
median pricewill rise with an annual growth rate of 3.2 percent in 2016. Despite the anticipated improvement in the housing market condition in the upcoming year, there are some challenges and uncertainties that the economy and the housing market will face in 2016. One such unknown risk is the timing and the magnitude of the federal funds rate increase. The Federal Reserve has an opportunity to raise the rate in December before the end of 2015, but given the pace of the current economic growth, it is very likely that the Fed will begin the rate hike in early next year instead. The increase in the rate is expected to be mild and gradual throughout the next two years. Robust job growth in high-cost areas is another downside risk to the housing market. Due to the spillover effect of growth in high paying jobs, plenty of lower-paying jobs have been created, with many of these jobs being in the same geographic areas where the high paying jobs are being added. As such, income disparity in these areas could further complicate and deteriorate the housing affordability issue. Global economic issues could also begin taking a toll on economic growth later this year and next year. Slow growth in China and other European countries, coupled with stronger growth in the US, have paved the way for higher interest rates and lead to a stronger dollar. As such, international trade
will likely be a drag on growth, as slower global growth and the stronger dollar soften the demand for exports, while continued strong growth in consumer spending domestically pulls in even more imports. Other potential risks that could have a negative impact on the California economy include the ongoing severe water shortage and the expected return of El Nino. Both could cause some economic losses, especially in the agricultural sector. However, the overall economic impact to the state of either risk is likely going to be small and may lead to minimal reduction in the employment growth rate for the next couple years. Brought to you by the California Association of Realtors Market Snapshot FOR MORE INFORMATION: Featured home: 5300 Greyson Creek Court El Dorado Hills, CA
Debi Ambroff, Coldwell Banker, Residential Brokerage (916) 425-9930 26
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
NEW ON MARKET
LUXURIOUS YET COMFORTABLE
TAHOE AMBIENCE...CITY CONVENIENCE
Serrano
Salmon Valley
5300 GREYSON CREEK CT. ASKING PRICE $1,310,000
2001 SALMON VELLEY ASKING PRICE $1,485,000
STEP UP TO COUNTRY LIVING
BRING YOUR CAR COLLECTION!
Southfork
Southpointe
5530 CHAPPIE CT ASKING PRICE $1,150,000
1918 SHOREVIEW DR. ASKING PRICE $1,399,000
PENDING SALE
A STEP ABOVE THE REST!
Kalithea in Promontory
4630 CARMEN DR. ASKING PRICE $2,599,000
COUNTRY COMPOUND 2 HOMES ON 10.2 AC
Oak Hill District
6115 WINDLESTRAW RD ASKING PRICE $1,120,000
Y
OUR REAL ESTATE CONNECTION A 25 YEAR TRAdITION Of ExCEpTIONAL SALES & MARkETINg
916.425.9930
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
Visit my website at www.debi4homes.net for photo tours
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FAS H I O N | B E AU T Y | ST Y L E | T R E N D S
FASHION
introducing
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Cool tones, bold statements. This season Lavish brings you the latest in winter trends. Soft hues, neutral accessories mixed with a bold scarlet, will surely transition your day to night with ease.
PHOTOGRAPHY TIM ENGLE MAKEUP SHAIKH BEELA HAIR JONATHAN CHEEK MODEL CHRISTINE ALWARD LOCATION THE FIND STUDIO All Clothing & Accessories Available at Button Up Boutique
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BROWN LEATHER JACKET Black Swan PATTERNED TOP Free People DENIM Adriano Goldschmied BROWN HANDBAG Lynn Tallerico
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BLACK JACKET Dex RED TANK TOP Tangerine NYC DENIM Adriano Goldschmied BLACK FRINGE HANDBAG Lynn Tallerico NECKLACE Sigalie LEOPARD HEELS Vince Camuto
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TURTLENECK DRESS Bobi NECKLACE Kendra Scott D'ORSAY PUMPS Vince Camuto
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OUR LITTLE BLACK HANDBOOK BY J. NALANI KAHAE | PHOTOS JEFFERY WARREN
It is no secret that whiskey is a spirit favorite across our globe, and bourbon specifically holds a warm place in the “All-American” heart. With its ever-growing popularity (especially bourbon in recent years), trying to learn the ins and outs of it can be daunting given the selection plethora to choose from.
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WHERE IS A PERSON SUPPOSED TO START? ARE YOU DOING IT CORRECTLY? IS THERE A CORRECT WAY TO DO THIS IN THE FIRST PLACE? AND, FOR THOSE ALREADY AVID FANS, WHERE CAN YOU GO FOR THOSE HARD-TO-FIND BOTTLES (WE’RE LOOKING AT THOSE OF YOU ON THE HUNT FOR PAPPY VAN WINKLE 23)? WE MET WITH SOME LOCAL EXPERTS AT THREE OF OUR FAVORITE SPOTS IN THE AREA. WITH THEIR HELP, WE’VE COMPILED INTRODUCTIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS, FUN FACTS AND, OF COURSE, SOME USEFUL AND HANDY QUICK TIPS. WITHOUT FURTHER ADIEU, TO ALL YOU FELLOW WHISKEY FANS, CHEERS!
THE FACTS: BOURBON VS. WHISKEY? Remember, all bourbon is whiskey but not all whiskey is bourbon! So what exactly is the difference? When it comes down to it, the differentiation is found in the federal regulations put in place since the 1800s in regards to how it’s made. A whiskey is a bourbon if and only if every one of these is true: · It’s made in the United States · It is made from a minimum of 51% corn · It’s distilled no higher than 160 proof · It is aged in new American Oak barrels at no more than 125 proof · It’s bottled at no less than 80 proof · Water is the only additive permitted. (No coloring or flavoring!) Regular whiskies don’t have to follow these guidelines! They can follow the processes, but it doesn’t have to adhere to these particularly strict standards. STRAIGHT BOURBON “It has to stay in barrels for 2 years in order to be called a ‘straight bourbon.” Small Batch: A small number of barrels are used to create the flavor profile and are then mixed together to create the full profile. CASK STRENGTH Essentially, cask strength means it’s straight out of the barrel and, thus, has a stronger taste in general. SINGLE BARREL BOURBON As the name suggests, one particular bottle comes out of one particular barrel; and each bottle is labeled with the exact barrel number
from which it stems. Other bourbons can be taken from a few different barrels at a time. Therefore, bourbon from one barrel will naturally taste different than bourbon from another. THAT GOOD OLE KENTUCKY BOURBON “Limestone is a natural filter,” says Chad Lanza of Cibo 7. He goes on to explain the well-known (and hard to dispute) relationship between the Bluegrass State and bourbon. There is limestone in the water! Because limestone has a high PH balance, it helps with the fermentation. Limestone also has calcium in it and that helps filter out the iron.
FLAVOR FACT Different mashes are used to change the flavors of bourbon (“Mash” refers to the liquid from the fermenting grains being used in the distilling process) The barrel itself gives the bourbon 60-70% of its flavor“We get oak from everywhere. So where those trees are and the different oaks [used] will give different flavor profiles to different [bourbons].
TOP IS THERE A PROPER WAY TO TASTE BOURBON? Ultimately, trust the Master Distiller when it comes to the proofing. As soon as water or ice is thrown into it, you’re lowering the proof and getting something different than what was originally intended.
TIPS 1. Read labels. Be sure to understand the proof and age. Pay less attention to what people say and more to what you actually like. 2. Buy it. Don’t wait. Especially true for small batches, if you find something you enjoy, don’t wait to purchase it at another time. You may find there are no more available bottles (and this happens more often than you might think)! 3. Don’t assign a generalized prejudgement about a whiskey based on one bad experience with it. Be open minded to the many different varieties available! 4. Bear in mind what you’ve eaten prior to your tasting. What you’ve consumed beforehand will affect the taste!
GLASSWARE MATTERS! And it enhances the experience. Whiskey glasses give a better overall tasting experience because of the way you’re able to smell the spirit. Just by design, a whiskey glass will allow the different notes to hit all the right senses. A regular double glass will bypass them all together.
5. Be open to trying things and keep the context to how you’re drinking. If you’ve been drinking moscow mules, then switch to something else, it’s going to make a difference.
KEEPING IT LOCAL
OUR TOP LOCAL FAVORITES FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL SELECTION AND EXPERIENCE.
FROM 36 HANDLES PUB & EATERY NATE JACKSON’S WHISKEY PICKS & POINTERS TOP 3 “JUST-TO-SIP” PICKS:
1. Booker’s 127 Proof: Good for those occasions when you’re looking for something quick in potency. 2. Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Whiskey: Simple and perfect for sipping (even after your first glass or two). 3. Jameson Irish Whiskey: A familiar standard, it’s simple, easy and sweet.
POINTER FOR THE NEW PARTICIPANT:
“Don’t go with something too big. Start with a Canadian or Irish whiskey. Try Jameson, Seagram or Crown Royal. Once your palette gets used to it, then you can go big.”
36 HANDLES EATERY & PUB Airing on the side of casual sophisticate, this local Irish pub offers live music, pool, drool-worthy eats, beer-on-tap a’plenty and a generous whiskey selection! Ask for Nate Jackson at the bar and watch him prepare his 5-minute Sazerac. 1010 White Rock Road, El Dorado Hills, (916) 941-3606, 36handles.com
TOP SPOT LOCAL FAVORITES CIBO 7 RISTORANTE WINE & SPIRITS With hundreds of different types of whiskies to choose from, guests will be able to find many of those “hard-toget” bottles here. From the illustrious Pappy Van Winkle 23, to Heaven Hill’s Elijah Craig 23, their high quality and extensive selection is hard to beat. Cibo 7 also offers a variety of whiskey tasting flights. Ask for Chad, Steve or Mike! 1465 Eureka Road, Roseville, (916) 789-8585, cibo7.com
CHAD LANZA’S SIX SIPPING SELECTIONS
Blade and Bow 22 Year Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 15 year Whistle Pig The Boss Hog Single Barrel Elijah Craig Single Barrel 23 Year Black Maple Hill Oregon Straight Michter’s Single Barrel Bourbon 20 Year
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DRY DIGGINGS DISTILLERY Focusing on small batch spirits, here you will find their own BODIE 5 Dog White Whiskey, 31 N 50 Bourbon and Rubicon Rye Whiskey. Reservations suggested. Be sure to talk to Cris Steller when you visit! 5050 Robert J Matthews Pkwy, El Dorado Hills, (916) 542-1700, drydiggings.com
EXCLUSIVELY AT DRY DIGGINGS RUBICON Rye Whiskey BODIE 5 Dog White Whiskey 31 N 50 Bourbont AVAILABLE IN LOCAL SPIRIT SHOPS: Amador Enginet 49 Straight Rye Whiskey Amador Engine 49 Barrel Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey Amador Engine 49 Straight Bourbon Whiskey
(Photos above)
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FROM DRY DIGGINGS DISTILLERY CRIS STELLER’S WHISKEY TOP TASTING PICKS BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL FOUR ROSE’S SINGLE BARREL BUFFALO TRACE BOURBON GEORGE DICKEL RYE WILD TURKEY 101 MICHTER’S BOURBON MAKER’S MARK
T
(INSIDER’S TIP: CIBO 7 OFFERS BOTH RYE AND BOURBON CHOICES!)
Ingredients: 4 dashes Angostura bitters 1 tsp sugar 1 orange wheel 1 Maraschino cherry 1 splash club soda 2 oz bourbon Directions: Muddle bitters, sugar, orange wheel, cherry and soda in an Old Fashioned glass. Remove orange rind. Add bourbon and fill with ice. Garnish with fresh orange wheel and cherry. (Source: liquor.com) SAZERAC
(INSIDER’S TIP: VISIT 36 HANDLES FOR NATE’S BEAUTIFUL SPIN ON THIS CLASSIC!)
Ingredients: 1 cube sugar 1.5 oz Sazerac Rye Whiskey or Buffalo Trace Bourbon ¼ oz Herbsaint 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters Lemon Peel Directions: Fill one glass with ice. Place sugar and bitters into a second glass. Crush sugar. Add whiskey. Discard ice from first glass. Coat the inside of first glass with Herbsaint. Empty drink from second glass into the first. Garnish with lemon peel. (Source: sazerac.com)
OLD FASHIONED
MANHATTAN
(INSIDER’S TIP: VISIT 36 HANDLES FOR NATE’S BEAUTIFUL SPIN ON THIS CLASSIC!)
Ingredients: 2 oz rye whiskey 1 oz sweet vermouth 2 dashes Angostura bitters 1 marasca cherry Directions: Add all ingredients into shaker with ice and stir. Strain into glass and garnish with cherry. t
MANHATTAN
SAZERAC
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T R AV E L
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LAS VEGAS
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
LAS VEGAS RE-INVENTED
SOMETHING FOR EVERY AGE AND EVERY INTEREST BY DON AND ANN JACKSON
It’s been quite a few years since we’d been to Vegas and we were pleasantly surprised at the numerous changes we encountered - mostly positive. Naturally the casinos and major name entertainment are still of paramount importance for those folks who enjoy either or both. One of our Vegas sources indicated that with the ever increasing competition from California’s Native American casinos the city really needed to reinvent itself with lots of new features, activities and events that would appeal to a broader range of visitors; especially the younger aged revelers, women and families. Now don’t get us wrong it’s still the glitz capital of the world. Where else can you see so much neon and huge replicas of Paris’s Eiffel Tower, Egypt’s Sphinx and pyramids plus New York’s skyscrapers and Statue of Liberty all within a few blocks of each other? Some folks still refer to it as sin city and most of us should remember their overused ad slogan of “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” Well, from a few experiences we witnessed of over-the-top behavior, it might be best if some visitors still adhere to that catchphrase. For more information on all things mentioned in this article go to: lasvegas.com or just do a Google search.
So here are some of the major changes we encountered:
Finally a few high-end hotels are totally smoke free (not just a few floors) and some
have NO casinos within the hotel premises. Some resorts now feature large pools with live concert poolside stage venues offering name entertainment especially targeted for younger age-group partiers. Serious foodies will be in gastronomic heaven. For quite a few years, the city has featured celebrity chefs but never to the extent that exists today. It seems that every famous American and European chef now has a restaurant in Vegas. Nowhere in the world can food lovers have so many celebrity chef dining options within such close proximity. Shopping has reached heights beyond Beverly Hills or New York with every major designer and high-end stores seemingly represented. Add in two of the world’s largest factory store outlet complexes and it’s a shopaholic nirvana. A few of the resorts now offer separate fenced off and securely shielded topless option swimming pools. A huge multi-purpose state-of-the-art sports arena is now under construction that will house a National Hockey League team and become the home to other major sporting and entertainment events. Could the NBA, MLB and NFL also be contemplating having teams in Vegas soon?More festivals with major stars catering to specific music genres staged at outdoor venues competing with Coachella in Southern California, Burning Man in Northern Nevada and Lollapalooza in Chicago-albeit smaller and better managed. Examples: Electric Daisy Carnival,
iHeartRadio, and Route 91 Harvest Festival. Many hotels now feature huge kid-friendly video arcades, pool slides and diversions like roller coasters and other rides. It also seems there are a few more family-friendly shows being offered. The biggest new draw for families is the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel at 550-foot high with a cost of over 550 million dollars. A thirty minute ride features spectacular day and night views from 28 to 40 person capacity cabins. For hard partying adults or special occasions: some of the cars are equipped with an open bar for those who really want to party on their increased ticket priced “happy half-hour trip.”
More Things to Do and See:
Las Vegas really does offer many unique adrenaline pumping attractions; a few of which probably can’t be found anywhere else or at least in such close proximity to each other. Examples: Experience driving alone or with an instructor in an Army tank, a monster truck, an exotic sports car, a huge Caterpillar tractor or an Indy car. And if those don’t thrill your adventure meter try leaping off the 855-foot-high Skyjump on the Stratosphere Hotel tower, or operating a classic ‘80s airplane doing loops, rolls plus combat maneuvers. Want something adventurous but without the excessive fear factor? Then indoor sky diving or zipping on the Flightlinez at
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T R AV E L
LAS VEGAS
Then indoor sky diving or zipping on the Flightlinez at Experience should provide an exhilarating thrill. If your adventure level doesn’t include the above look into hiking around the nearby and beautiful Red Rock National Monument or the massive Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Visits to the entertaining Mob Museum, yesteryear’s Neon Museum, or Hoover Dam, one of the world’s most amazing marvels of engineering, should be considered. Our brief stop at Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden in the Mirage Resort provided a wonderful surprise as we were able to see recently born white tiger cubs frolicking with their trainer and each other. Our favorite shows we saw on our most recent trip were the Broadway rebirth of The Jersey Boys, America’s Got Talent TV show winners Mat Franco & Terry Fator and the long running Donnie & Marie Osmond show, voted the most popular show with the local residents.
At Lake Las Vegas:
On the Strip:
Another wonderful area away from the more hectic downtown and strip providing the closest access to Red Rock Canyon. On two trips to Vegas we’ve stayed at the J.W. Marriott Resort and Spa and are pleased that this is another totally smokefree property. We’ve also been blown away by the guest rooms, spa, gym facilities, lush gardens, poolside cabanas and our meals in their Ceres Restaurant. jwmarriotthotels.com Another dining experience we had in the Summerlin area was the D.W. Bistro, a local’s favorite. The young staff is providing creative dishes and very friendly service in an upbeat ambience.
This is where most of the action takes place and you need to look no further than The Delano, sans casino and a totally smoke-free, all-suite boutique type property under the preeminent MGM banner. This chic property includes rooftop nouveau French dining at Rivea under the auspices of Alain Ducasse, one of the world’s most famous celebrity Michelin awarded chefs. Our meals in the casual Della’s kitchen were exceptional comfort food experiences and the hotel accommodations and staff were quite special. delanolasvegas.com. Our other recommended dining spots on the strip include: Heritage Steak by New York’s celebrity chef, Tom Colicchio at the Mirage, just the best steaks we’ve had in months. Giada, inside the Cromwell Hotel, features the delectable Italian cuisine of Emmy award winning Food Channel Chef, Giada De Laurentiis. If you’re seeking a special occasion dinner spot be sure to reserve a table at the Stratosphere Hotel’s award winning revolving Top of the World restaurant where breathtaking vistas and gourmet cuisine will not disappoint. Shopping at the nearby Las Vegas Town Square? You should consider a meal at Brio Tuscan Grille, where Tuscany inspired fare will definitely please your palate. 48
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
This very upscale Mediterranean inspired development, in nearby Henderson, is the premier resort destination if you really want to be away from the bustling activities of the Strip or downtown Vegas. Beautiful resort and condo accommodation choices and a championship Jack Nicklaus golf course overlook a privately owned 320 acre lake with ten miles of shoreline, sailing and fishing options. Our recommended lodging choice is the striking Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa where luxurious guest rooms and a gorgeous setting will insure a much more relaxing environment than the strip. A totally smoke-free and non-casino environment makes this Westin a new personal favorite. Also provides close access to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. westinlakelasvegas.com
In Summerlin Area:
Summary:
Can Las Vegas come up with even more changes in focus? Can even more green environment improvements happen soon? How about totally smoke-free casinos, not just smoke-free casino sections? We hope so! Keep abreast of current Vegas news at lasvegas.com. (Editor’s Note: next month our travel team will be telling our readers about their adventures in Healdsburg)
LAS VEGAS Style
STYLE At sunny vacation spots, covering up is a chic way to stand out. Try these styles anywhere you travel.
Walk THE Town:
Travel DAY: Wildfox “Are You Coming With Me” Sweatshirt
T R AV E L
Date NIGHT: Black High Neck Dress
Lysse Pewter Origami Jacket
Apricot Lane
Pottery World
Runway Boutique
Alice Top
Ora Delphine Camel Claire Bucket Purse
Apricot Lane
Article Consignment Boutique
Melanie Georgacopoulos Sliced Pink Pearl Earrings Talisman Collection
Priscilla Beaded Clutch Francesca's
Kate Spade Cobble Hill Small Leslie Satchel Article Consignment Boutique
Arrow Drop Earrings
Stelladot.com/lucywheeler
J Crew Boyfriend Jeans
Article Consignment Boutique
AG Jeans The Stilt Cigarette Runway Boutique
Casablanca Bracelet
Stelladot.com/lucywheeler
Sperry Top Sider Laguna Boat Shoe DSW, Designer Shoe Warehouse
Dolce Vita Cai Wedges Button Up Boutique
Vince Camuto Shayla Platform Heels Button Up Boutique
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R E S TA U R A N T S | R E C I P E S | F O O D | D R I N K S
S I P & S AV O R
Cascada Restaurante & Cantina BY KELSEY WEHSELS | PHOTOS JEFFERY WARREN
With an ecletic mix of Mexican favorites and California cuisine, Cascada Restaurante & Cantina offers Latin flare in an upscale setting, without the upscale price. The first location opened in Placerville six years ago in 2010 by Jose Rodriguez. He has partnered with Hector Hernandez for the El Dorado Hills location, which opened in November 2013. Wanting to signify beauty, the name of the restaurant translates to “waterfall” in Spanish, a naturally-occurring event in nature; one that many would describe as both fascinating and stunning. LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
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S I P & S AV O R
The word “cantina” in the United States, means a tavern or bar that serves traditional Mexican drinks, and Cascada does just that with their own twist. There are 9 specialty cocktails on the menu, including the Mango Margatini (Herradura tequila, Cointreau, mango puree, and fresh sweet and sour), the Nectar De Los Dioses (Casa Nobles organic tequila, agave nectar, and fresh lime juice), and the Latin Lover (Bacardi, St. Germain, agave nectar, fresh lime juice, and pineapple).“One of the things that makes us unique is our margaritas,” said Shelly Charnock, the bartender. “We make our own lime juice.” The most popular margarita? The Cascada margarita - Herradura blanco tequila, Grand Gala and fresh lime juice. They also serve over 25 wines, mostly from the El Dorado and Amador County regions. While you may be thinking burritos and enchiladas when it comes to a Mexican menu, Cascada thinks outside the box and creates various dishes that are unique and flavorful. Two of the most popular items are the Pasta Mexicana - a mix of shrimp, chicken, and habanero sausage, sauteed with onion, tomatoes, garlic tossed with penne pasta and red chili cream sauce, and the Salmon Asesino - salmon filet stuffed with spinach and
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CASCADA RESTAURANTE & CANTINA
crabmeat, topped with capers, tomatoes, and a dill cream sauce. While Cascada specializes in Mexican favorites, there is also something for non-Mexican food eaters on the menu; a variety of burgers and sandwiches. Served from 12pm-6pm Monday through Friday, you can’t go wrong with the happy hour, which includes a $4.50 house margarita, $1.50 off draft beers, and a variety of $3.45 tacos. On top of the enticing cuisine, Cascada offers an enjoyable and warm atmosphere which can be enjoyed for an intimate date night, or fun night out with the family. And according to Hanna Mortensen, a waitress at Cascada, the family atmosphere is what makes it unique. “It’s got a great family feel,” she said. “A lot of the people that come in here comment that it feels like home. We have a large local following so it really does feel like one large family.”
For more information
CASCADA RESTAURANTE & CANTINA
2222 Francisco Drive, El Dorado Hills (916) 934-0800, eatcascada.com
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S I P & S AV O R
DINING OUT WITH NICK
MAKE YOUR RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS ON MONDAY THE 15TH. Most of the general public will be filling up Sunday 14th’s reservations like a tight little sardine can. Those who can’t shoehorn themselves into the books on Sunday, will settle for Saturday and finally will trickle down to Friday, leaving the whole weekend jam packed full of folks hoping to do things right. Buck the trend and spend the 14th with your loved one and scoop up the 6:30 reservation at your favorite spot for a quiet little romantic Monday.
VALENTINE'S DAY BY NICK DEDIER
NICK DEDIER
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There are few words phrases or days that raise the hairs on the back of a restaurant owner’s neck like “Valentine’s Day.” Every year guests, patrons, friends, and family always ask me where they should celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. My response never varies: “at home.” Now this may conjure up images of the “Grumpy Cat” just saying “No” to V-Day, but that could not be farther from the truth. What I am saying, by advising people to celebrate at home, is that restaurants, on February 14, are usually a little too busy and too hectic to find that vibe your partner may be looking for. Valentine’s Day is the one day where the schedule of being a hospitality professional is actually works in my favor for I am forced to celebrate one to two days before or after. While the restaurant reservations books are like a black and blue roller derby on the 14th, they are like a pristine beach waiting for a
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
new set of footprints on the 15th. This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday. If you play your cards right, you can set yourself up for a killer weekend for you and a loved one. Below are my tips to making the hospitality world work for you. FLOWERS. Valentine’s Day is like the quadruple rate hike season for flower shops so you’ll have to play the long game here. Find a florist and forge a relationship with them. Know them by name and send flowers more than once or twice a year (trust me, your significant other will love you for it). If you have a relationship with your florist you can find a way to avoid the price hike while also making your significant other a very happy camper for the rest of the year.
AVOID THE PRIX FIXE. Like florists a lot of restaurants want to take advantage of the day where EVERYONE goes out to eat. They do this by slapping a big price tag on a limited 3 to 5 course menu with script font and ditch the rest of their menu. If a restaurant is only offering Prix Fixe or a fixed and set coursed menu for Valentine’s Day, then skip it. DO BRUNCH ON SUNDAY. Brunching is a long lost art and there is no better day to take advantage of brunch than a Sunday valentine’s day. Show someone you love them and spend a few leisurely hours sipping bubbly, sharing a lobster omelet and just generally enjoying a great afternoon while the rest of the world is getting ready to go out to dinner. MAKE YOUR OWN DINNER. Take your brunch mimosa driven mindset, go to the store and go shopping for dinner. There is nothing more romantic than cooking dinner at home and spending time together. Even if you’re just making spaghetti there is something so amazing about eating the food someone else has cooked for you or feeding the one you love. Basically by doing things a little differently you get to avoid the crowds, buck the trends, save some money and make the time you are spending with your loved one a little more intimate and a lot more rewarding.
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S I P & S AV O R
WINE PICKS | PELTIER WINERY & VINEYARDS
LO C AL LO D I WI NES THIS MONTH'S PICK FROM LOCAL LODI WINERIES.
PELTIER Winery & Vineyards
Peltier’s answer to a dessert wine need is their USB. Blending the flavors of butterscotch, dried cherry and orange peel, this wine is well balanced and modest in sweetness. Valentine’s weekend marks the official opening of Peltier’s temporary tasting room for Lodi’s Wine & Chocolate Weekend. The charm of the rustic and shabby-chic tasting room, while temporary, will remain open daily to the public after its debut. Visitors are invited to “watch and grow” with Peltier. In the meantime, be sure to try their newly released flagship “Peltier Wines.” These include the premium red blend Triomphe, premium white blend Preeminence and their Old Vine Zinfandel “harvested from their 50+ year old Zinfandel vineyard.” FOR MORE INFORMATION:
PELTIER WINERY & VINEYARDS 22150 N. Kennefick Rd. Acampo (209) 367-4882, peltierwinery.com
BY J. NALANI KAHAE
When it comes to defining features, Peltier Winery holds sustainable farming in one hand and their custom crush facility in another. “From vineyard to bottle,” Peltier prides itself in being among the first Certified Green growers in Lodi Rules. With a grape-growing passion spanning three generations, each and every one of their wines is produced from their estate-grown vineyards. Their intentional farming practices truly reveal the love and care the Peltier team has for both the land and the wine. The most recent Platinum Award winning and newly released Peltier Reserve 2010 Teroldego (given by the 2015 Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition) is a testament to this devotion. Director of Marketing & Design Ian Bender says, “Sustainable farming can lead to more consistency in the wines, but ultimately it is still up to Mother Nature and a good winemaker.” This sentiment clearly rings true as evidenced by another award-winner, their Petite Sirah.
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Barrel-aged for at least 3 years, the Peltier Reserve wines include their full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and the aforementioned Teroldego with its slight earthy undertones, raspberry notes and hints of dark chocolate.The Peltier Station selection offers three different wines created in tribute to wine history and the California railways. The Petite Sirah offers an earthy tone with a smooth chocolate coffee finish. Peltier Station Cabernet Sauvignon has blackberry flavors with hints of caramel and dark chocolate. The Zinfandel’s cherry presence is immediate but balanced by white pepper and hints of licorice. Varietal blends make up Peltier’s Hybrid collection. The Pinot Noir provides flavors of black cherry, plum and cherry chocolate liqueur. The Cabernet Sauvignon combines a smoky caramel aroma and dark chocolate raspberry. The Hybrid Petite Sirah gives berry and earthy flavors. The Chardonnay blends Viognier, fresh pineapple and kiwi. The Pinot Grigio is bright with citrus and mellow summer fruit flavors.
Happy Hour • 11-6pm, 7 days a week
Sun-Thurs 11-9 • Fri-Sat 11-9:30
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S I P & S AV O R
WINE PICKS | DILLIAN WINERY
LO C AL FO OT H I L L WI N E S THIS MONTH'S PICK FROM LOCAL SIERRA FOOTHILL WINERIES.
What started as a 90s winemaking venture from home, became a realized dream to continue a family legacy. This dream came to fruition 12 years later when Tom Dillian opened Dillian Wines. Since then, this small family winery has devoted themselves to the specific crafting of Zinfandel, Barbera and Primitivo.Dillian Wines are each handmade in small batch fermentations and aged in both French and American oak barrels. Home to several awardwinning wines, visitors are invited into the tasting room inspired by the home Tom’s grandfather built in the early 1900s. The newly released 2013 Sangiovese retains watermelon and strawberry flavors. Another new release, the 2013 Syrah, combines coffee bean and toasted oak aromas with blackberry and dark chocolate flavors. The 2015 Barbera is considered a local favorite with its blueberry and dried cherry flavors. All three of these are 2015 Award Winners. In keeping with the changing seasons, the Vino Nostro may lift your spirits with its Sangiovese, Barbera and Zinfandel blend. It offers cinnamon and nutmeg aromas with cherry and black pepper flavors.
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With more cinnamon nods and all spice hints, the 2012 Primitivo is described as “the Italian ‘twin’ of Zinfandel.” This wine combines said aromas with candied cherries and plum. Derived from grapes planted in the Tom’s very first vineyard, the 2012 Tre Fratelli Zinfandel gives “a rich minerality” to the blackberry flavor while wafting a smoky aroma. This is another award winner! The 2014 Sauvignon Blanc is a notable treat for white wine fans. It tastes and smells of mango, lemon custard and pink grapefruit. For people who love Dillian Wines, they offer two separate wine clubs: Standard Wine Club and Black Label Wine Club. With the Standard club, members receive four shipments of two bottles annually, and a 10% discount. Black Label members receive four shipments of four bottles annually with a 20% discount, and are guaranteed two bottles of each Black Label Reserve release. Dillian Wines Tasting Room is opened Friday through Sunday from 11AM – 4:30PM. Groups of 7 or more are by appointment only.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
DILLIAN WINES 12138 Steiner Road, Plymouth (209) 245-3444, dillianwinery.com
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BY SERENA PIPER
S I P & S AV O R
SEASON DELIGHT
Navel Oranges
Did you know navel oranges are named because of the underdeveloped twin fruit at the base of the orange? Orange historian Vince Moses has said the tiny wedges at the navel are really a conjoined twin which grows inside the primary fruit’s peel. The navel is the formative peel of the twin and develops on the side opposite the stem.
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SEASON DELIGHT NAVEL ORANGES
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
Most of us distinguish navel oranges from tangerines simply by the fact that navel oranges are a lot less juicy and flavorful. They’re one of only a handful of fruits available almost all year round, making them a popular choice in fruit salads and a go-to at the grocery store. But just because we’re missing that juiciness and flavor, that doesn’t make navel oranges any less nutritious for our bodies!Like
all citrus fruits, the navel orange is a great source of Vitamin C. It’s also stocked with fiber (which controls hunger) and potassium, and since it’s recommended adults have 1 ½ to 2 cups of fruit a day, include it in your breakfast by mixing it in with some yogurt or cut up a couple slices to add as a side to eggs and toast for an energized start to your day.
ORANGE, WALNUT, GORGONZOLA AND MIXED GREENS SALAD WITH FRESH CITRUS VINAIGRETTE
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INGREDIENTS: 3/4 CUP WALNUT HALVES 10 OUNCES MIXED SALAD GREENS WITH ARUGULA 2 LARGE NAVEL ORANGES, PEELED AND SECTIONED ORANGES ORGANIC NAVEL 1/2 CUP SLICED RED ONION 1/4 CUP OLIVE OIL 1/4 CUP VEGETABLE OIL 2/3 CUP ORANGE JUICE 1/4 CUP WHITE SUGAR 2 TABLESPOONS BALSAMIC VINEGAR 2 TEASPOONS DIJON MUSTARD 1/4 TEASPOON DRIED OREGANO 1/4 TEASPOON GROUND BLACK PEPPER 1/4 CUP CRUMBLED GORGONZOLA CHEESE DIRECTIONS: PLACE THE WALNUTS IN A SKILLET OVER MEDIUM HEAT. COOK 5 MINUTES, STIRRING CONSTANTLY, UNTIL LIGHTLY BROWNED. IN A LARGE BOWL, TOSS THE TOASTED WALNUTS, SALAD GREENS, ORANGES, AND RED ONION. IN A LARGE JAR WITH A LID, MIX THE OLIVE OIL, VEGETABLE OIL, ORANGE JUICE, SUGAR, VINEGAR, MUSTARD, OREGANO, AND PEPPER. SEAL JAR, AND SHAKE TO MIX. DIVIDE THE SALAD GREENS MIXTURE INTO INDIVIDUAL SERVINGS. TO SERVE, SPRINKLE WITH GORGONZOLA CHEESE, AND DRIZZLE WITH THE DRESSING MIXTURE.
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SAVE the DATES
COMPILED BY J. NALANI KAHAE
THROUGH THE TREES EXHIBIT Gallery at 48 Natoma, Folsom January 22 - March 10
Featuring pieces by Marjan Kluepfel, Demetra Theofanous and Dean Bensen, this exhibit showcases the intricacies in leaves, bird nests, egg shells and tree bark using fabric and glass as the unexpected media. Free admission. For more information, vtisit facebook.com/TheGalleryat48Natoma.
Gem Faire Placer County Fairgrounds & Event Center, Roseville Friday - Sunday, February 5 - 7, hours vary
Boasting one of the nation’s biggest gem, jewelry and bead shows, Gem Faire brings all sorts of “earth treasures” for the gem and mineral hobbyist to discover. Vendors offer fine jewelry, costume jewelry, gemstones, beads, crystals, precious metals, tools and more. Free parking. General admission $7 weekend pass. Free admission for children 12 years and younger. Visit gemfaire.com or call 503.252.8300 for more information.
Silver Screen Classic Movies presents “The Defiant Ones” Auburn Library, Beecher Room, Auburn Saturday, February 6, showtimes vary
Calling all classic film lovers! Revisit the timeless tale Sidney Poitier and Tony Curtis deliver about two escaped convicts, literally bound together by chains, who overcome their racial-fueled hatred for one another to become allies and eventual friends. Free admission. Visit auburnsilverscreen.com for more information.
International Guitar Night Harris Center for the Arts, Folsom Wednesday, February 10, 7:30 PM
With performances from Lulo Reinhardt, Mike Dawes, Andre Krengel and Brian Gore, IGN offers audiences the chance to enjoy a night of acoustic guitar originals and collaborations. Tickets range $19-$39. Student discounts available. Visit harriscenter.net or internationalguitarnight.com for more details.
A Chocolate Affair El Dorado Fair Grounds, Main Building, El Dorado Hills Saturday, February 13, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Brought to you by Soroptimist International of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills and Placerville, this annual benefit is designed to raise funds for local projects in the surrounding community including Helping Hands, CASA, Partners in Care, United Outreach and more. Enjoy chocolate, food, wine and participate in the silent/live auctions. Advanced tickets are $40. Door tickets are $45. “Sweetheart Deal” available online to the first 70 couples. Visit chocolate-affair.com or call 530.344.1476 for more information.
California Theatre Center presents Beauty & the Beast Harris Center for the Arts, Folsom Saturday, February 13, 1 PM & 3 PM
Enjoy this old time favorite about a beautiful maiden who falls in love with a prince trapped in a beast’s body. The universal themes of kindness, courage, gentleness and goodness remain unchanged. Tickets are $9-$15. For more information, visit harriscenter.net or ctcinc.org.
Laurence Juber and Peppino D’Agostino Harris Center for the Arts, Stage 2: City Studio Theater, Folsom Saturday, February 13, 7:30 PM
Grammy winner and former Wings lead guitarist Laurence Juber joins Peppino D’Agostino for an evening of masterful steel-string fingerstyle guitar playing! Tickets are $25-$45. Discounts available for seniors and students. Visit harriscenter.net or sacramentoguitarsociety.org for more details.
The Folsom Symphony: Romance and Destiny Harris Center for the Arts, Stage 1, Folsom Saturday, February 13, 7:30 PM
Alongside special guest violinist Livia Sohn, The Folsom Lake Symphony brings audiences an evening to remember. The concert performances will include Glinka’s Overture to Ruslan and Lyudmila, Chausson: Poème, Ravel: Tzigane, Tchaikovsky: Symphony (No.) 5. Tickets are $25-$59. Discounts available to seniors and students. Visit harriscenter.net or folsomlakesymphony.com for further information. 62
LAVISH LIVING MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2016
Family Game Night at Maidu Museum Maidu Museum & Historic Site, Roseville Friday, February 19, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Doors open at 7 PM. Program begins at 7:30 PM.
Bring your family to the museum and learn about California Native American culture through traditional games and nature-related activities. Children will be able to take home a keepsake. Entry is $5 per person, $16 per family of 4, free admission for children 2 years and younger. For more information, call 916.774.5934 or email maidumuseum@roseville.ca.us.
Cameron Park Fire Department Crab Feed Cameron Park Community Center, Cameron Park Saturday, February 27, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Come feast at this crab feed while enjoying music. Afterwards, feel free to participate in the raffle and silent auction! Proceeds help support the fire department. Tickets are $45. Visit cameronpark.org or call 530.677.6190 for more details.
19th Annual Wine & Chocolate Weekend Participating Lodi Wineries, Lodi Saturday - Sunday, February 13 & 14
Spent Valentine’s Weekend traveling across Lodi Wine Country to the over 50 participating wineries. Come prepared for wine and chocolate pairings, live music and barrel tastings hosted by each winery. Tickets are valid for both days and include a wine glass, chocolate, event map/ guide, tastings, and admission to over 50 participating wineries. Over 100 prizes can be won with chocolates containing a “Golden Ticket.” 21+ only. Advanced tickets $55. Event day tickets $65. Free admission for designated drivers. Visit lodiwineandchocolate.com for a complete list of participating wineries and further details.
ETIQUETTE
FINAL THOUGHT
FAUX PAS BY SERENA PIPER
Ah, Valentine’s Day. A celebration of love and all things red and pink. But are roses and candy all that matters? Last year, Americans spent close to 18 billion on Valentine’s Day. And although we spend as much as $130 per person each year on Valentine’s Day, there is more to it than just buying our significant other or loved one their favorite chocolates and some flowers. To make this Valentine’s Day extra special and to make sure Cupid’s arrow doesn’t hit somewhere off target, here are a few tips as to what not to do this year.
NOT MAKING RESERVATIONS EARLY. If you’re planning on going out that night, call ahead at least a week, maybe two, to make a reservation with your chosen restaurant or getaway. Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, which means if you have kids, you’ll want to find a sitter as soon as possible.
GOING OUT OF YOUR BUDGET FOR A GIFT. There’s nothing lovey about spending more than you intended. Not only will you end up broke, you also might subconsciously harbor a grudge toward your loved one. Brainstorm a few items sure to be a hit, then decide how much you’re willing to spend.
MAKING EYES AT YOUR PHONE ALL EVENING. The one thing you can do in front of someone to make them feel unappreciated is to be on your phone the entire time you’re together. Capture the moment with a selfie if you must, but resist the urge to post it to Facebook right away. Catching a glimpse of what others are doing will only make you want to keep scrolling, when you should be gazing at your date!
FOLLOWING THE CROWD. Following the crowd in general is never a good thing if you aren’t staying true to yourself and Valentine’s Day is no exception. Don’t buy into what other couples or families might be doing. Start your own tradition or put together something that will have a special meaning to only you two.
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GOING OVERBOARD WITH GIFTS. Have you ever exchanged gifts with someone only to find out they went all out for you compared to what you gave them? We all hate that feeling, so to avoid it, talk beforehand to clarify what the day might look like for you and your significant other or loved one. You don’t have to outright tell them what you’ll be getting them, just set a bar for how much money to spend on each other.
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916.941.9181 aji-bistro.com
HOURS: Open @ 11:00am Every Day Until 11:00pm Friday and Saturday Until 9:00pm Sunday through Thursday
Come see us for lunch and open late in the evenings.
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