BEST OF 2019
2019 OF NAPA VALLEY • READERS CHOICE •
PLUS+
Loch & Union Distilling Coombsville AVA Mexican American Vintners BEST OF 2019
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"My teeth are more beautiful than I could ever have dreamed! I am forever grateful fo Dr. Lamberton and his entire team for the confidence that comes with the smile they made me. " SHELBY
moc.snrofsneciv.www snroF sneciV :rehpargotohP
COSMETIC DENTISTRY OF NAPA C
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Dr. Cecil Lamberton, DDS www.cosmeticdentistryofnapa.com (707) 257-7771 02
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See What’s New at Peju! The Art of Seeing
Rutherford Dust Cabernet Tasting
Your adventure begins in the
Enjoy an informal, light-hearted
vineyards and forests of Napa Valley
exploration of Cabernet Sauvignon with Peju’s certified Somellier, Ryan Avila. Available by reservation only, Tuesday – Friday at 10:30am & 1:30pm.
where master photographers Janna Waldinger or Lowell Downey will guide you through landscapes inaccessible to the general public. Available by reservation only, Monday – Thursday at 9:00am-2:00pm.
Wine & Culinary Exploration Learn about the art of pairing food with fine wine through an intimate wine and culinary exploration experience. Available by reservation only, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
napa valle y
Peju Province Winery | Open Daily, 10am - 6pm 8466 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford, CA 94573 | 707.963.3600 | peju.com
We welcome you to join us daily for our Classic and Reserve Tastings, no reservations required. 2
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3341 Solano Ave. (Redwood Plaza) Napa, CA 94558 • (707) 252-8131 • www.creationsfinejewelers.com BEST WINTER OF 2018 2019
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Contents
F E AT U R E S T H E B E S T O F I S S U E / / 2 0 1 9
Story: 22 Cover Loch & Union Distilling
Best of 26 Annual Napa Valley 2019: The results are in!
American 50 The Viticultural Area
(AVA) Series Debut Coombsville AVA
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Mexican American Vintners Association 2019 OF NAPA VALLEY • READERS CHOICE •
BE ST OF 20 19
2019 OF NAPA VAL
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CHOICE •
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Loch & Un ion Distilling Coombsvi lle AVA Mexican Am erican Vintners BEST OF
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Make an appointment to taste our range of classic Napa wines. Present this ad to taste our Aurum Red – rated 98+ by Robert Parker
680 ROSSI ROAD | ST. HELENA, CA 94574 | 707-963-8600 | ANDERSONCONNVALLEY.COM BEST OF 2019
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NVL contents
D E PA R T M E N T S T H E B E S T O F I S S U E / / 2 0 1 9
13 NV Scene
The Napa Valley scene of recent parties, concerts, celebrations and events
14 Calendar 18 Things To Do Elegant Wine Tours
20 What’s Hot
Cultured Vine Calamity Jane Trading Co. Winemaker's Pantry La Calenda
42 NVL Wine & Winery Spotlights
42 Shadybrook Estate 44 Trujillo Wines 46 Herb Lamb Vineyards 47 Sciandri Family Vineyards
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54 NVL Wineries
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54 Fayard Wines 56 Phifer Pavitt Wines 58 Correlation Wine Co. 60 Pellet Estate 62 Krupp Brothers Winery 64 PerUs 66 William Harrison Vineyards 68 Clark-Claudon Vineyards 70 Pax Wines 72 Salvestrin Winery 74 Senders Wines 76 Black Cat Vineyard
84 People & Art Photographer Bob McClenahan
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86 Travel
Kukyl'ula, Hawaii
90 Featured Properties Tina Shone & Cindy Gates
94 Money & Wealth
Market Volatility- Friend or Foe?
96 Health & Wellness True REST Float Spa
98 NVL Food
Chef Terry Letson Shackford's Kitchen Store
100 Dining Guide 6
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Kenzo Estate
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THREE MORE REASONS TO LOVE THIS
ONE -OF - A - K I N D C A B ER NE T
AWARD-WINNING 2016 NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON
93 Points 90 Points
The Tasting Panel Magazine
92 Points & Gold Medal
Decanter Asia
San Francisco International Wine Competition
v is it Silver Ghost Cellars.com or ask for it at y o u r l o c a l fi n e wine reta iler
NVL publisher's letter
best of the best W
elcome to our 4th Annual Best of Napa Valley Life issue. This year we condensed our poll to mostly food, wine, and hospitality. Congratulations to all of the winners as selected by readers far and wide via online balloting, and special kudos to those making their first Best Of appearance. A shout-out goes to those selected by Napa Valley Life staff in the category ‘editor’s choice.’ This list makes it apparent that our charming Valley contains an abundance of riches and we hope you will check out all of the finalists in each category.
I have had the privilege to travel to many parts of Europe and Asia and it seems no matter where I go, people know of Napa Valley. Though small at only 30-miles from south to north, we have a big reputation. We are home to incredible visionaries and wine enthusiasts willing to think outside the box, each of whom takes great advantage of our area’s tremendous and diverse micro-climates and unique soils that serve to produce world-class wines. Napa Valley was the first American Viticultural Area – or AVA – to be designated in California in 1981. Since then, 16 sub AVA’s have been established. This issue marks the beginning of an ongoing peek at each of those sub AVA’s, and we start with the newest: Coombsville AVA. See page 50. Loch and Union Distilling Co-Founders Colin Baker and Matthew Meyer with Kari Ruel
While wine is our greatest export, spirits are not far behind. The crew at Loch & Union Distilling chose to begin their odyssey in Napa because they wanted to age their whiskey in top-of-the-line wine barrels – those found only in Napa. Read about the unique procedures they utilize – and how they are destined to put Napa on the map for their gin and whiskey offerings. Finally, this Best Of issue is an apropos time to thank our staff of writers and editors, who do their own best to bring you the bounty of the Napa Valley, issue after issue. Cheers,
Kari Ruel Your Publisher
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SHOPS • RESTAURANTS • HOTEL
NOW OPEN ARCHER HOTEL NAPA
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Kari Ruel kari.ruel@napavalleylife.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal ONLINE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA Cecile Nemitz-Ruffino cecile.ruffino@webmediagroup.com ADVERTISING/SALES Kari Ruel – 707-738-9698
Where Shopping Is An Art! Supporting Local Artists & Hand-Made Wines Since 2002
kari.ruel@napavalleylife.com Doris Hobbs – 209-207-4876 doris.hobbs@napavalleylife.com TRAVEL EDITOR Robert Kaufman rkaufman717@gmail.com FOOD & FLAVOR EDITOR Dynie Sanderson
Napa General Store 540 Main Street - Napa
707.259.0762
www.NapaGeneralStore.com OPEN DAILY 8AM-6PM
napafoodgal@gmail.com ACCOUNTING/BUSINESS OFFICE 707-738-9698 CONTRIBUTORS Kari Ruel Lowell Downey Dynie Sanderson Robert Kaufman Janna Waldinger Fran Miller Laura Larson Charleen Earley ABOUT THE COVER Loch and Union Distilling crew Photo by Art & Clarity
Napa Valley Life Magazine is published six times a year. We have four quarterly publications and two annual publications. P.O. Box 865, Napa, CA 94559. Copyright 2019 by Napa Valley Life Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Subscriptions are available at $12/year by visiting napavalleylife.com and clicking on subscriptions at the top.
Twitter: @napavalleylifem
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Facebook: NVLife
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LOCAL RESTAURANTS PAIR WELL WITH LOCAL WINES It’s a benefit to all of us when we support local businesses. We are proud to recognize the following restaurants for their outstanding selection of Napa Valley wines.
CALISTOGA All Seasons Bistro Bosko's Trattoria Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery Calistoga Ranch Evangeline Johnny's Restaurant and Bar Lovina Sam's Social Club Solbar Veraison Restaurant ST. HELENA Acacia House by Chris Cosentino Archetype Brasswood Bar & Kitchen The Charter Oak Cook St. Helena Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch Gatehouse Restaurant - Culinary Institute of America Goose & Gander Gott’s Roadside Harvest Table Himalayan Sherpa Kitchen Market Restaurant PRESS The Restaurant at Meadowood The Grill at Meadowood RUTHERFORD Auberge du Soleil Rutherford Grill YOUNTVILLE Bistro Jeanty Bottega Napa Valley Bouchon Bistro Brix 12
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Ciccio The French Laundry Lucy Restaurant @ Bardessono Mustards Grill Protea R+D Kitchen NAPA ALBA Angèle Azzuro Pizzeria Bank Café & Bar – The Westin Verasa Napa Basalt Bistro Don Giovanni Blue Note Napa Boon Fly Cafe at The Carneros Inn Bounty Hunter Rare Wines Bui Bistro Ca' Momi Cadet Carpe Diem Celadon Charlie Palmer Steak Napa Cole's Chop House The Commons at The Meritage Resort at Napa Compadres Rio Grille Compline Wine Bar Cordeiro's Bar & Grill Eight Noodle Shop Eiko’s Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley FARM at The Carneros Inn Forge Pizza fumé Bistro & Bar Galpão Gaucho Gott’s Roadside Hop Creek
Il Posto Trattoria Kitchen Door La Toque Mercantile Social at Andaz Mercantile Terrace at Andaz Morimoto - Napa Napa Cigars Napa General Store Napa Noodles Napa Palisades Saloon NapaSport Steakhouse & Sports Lounge Napa Valley Bistro Napa Valley Wine Train Napkins Bar + Grill Norman Rose Tavern Oenotri Pasta Prego The Q R&B The Restaurant at CIA Copia Ristorante Allegria Siena Restaurant at The Meritage Resort at Napa Silverado Resort & Spa Southside Café Stone Brewing Tarla Mediterranean Bar & Grill TORC Trancas Steakhouse VINeleven @ the Marriott
napavintners.com
NV Scene
The Napa Valley scene of recent parties, concerts, celebrations and events 9TH ANNUAL NAPA VALLEY TRUFFLE FESTIVAL
Vintner Robert Sinskey explains why he became involved in truffles
# PHOTOS BY KARI RUEL
Exciting news at the Truffle Festival was the first two truffles were found in Wine Country in January. Over 400 attendees were able to experience everything truffles over the four-day festival including truffle dinners and lunches, truffle seminars and on location field trips to see truffle dogs in action. The Truffle Whisper, Chef Ken Frank explains why he likes truffles
Jewel
Cabernet Risotto with Braised Beef Cheeks, cauliflower and black truffle
Lolo the truffle dog finds a planted truffle
Robert Chang explains how truffles grow
Musicians Michael Franti and Victoria Canal with Founder Bobbii Hac Jacobs Truffle Festival attendee Chris Majcherek smells a truffle
Dr. Paul Thomas interacts with attendees
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NV Calendar The Napa Valley scene of upcoming parties, concerts, celebrations and events For up-to-date calendar listings visit napavalleylife.com and click on EVENTS at the top of the page
CampoVelo
Sunday, March 3
41ST ANNUAL RUNNING OF KAISER PERMANENTE NAPA VALLEY MARATHON + THE INAUGURAL RUNNING OF THE RUNN CONN CREEK HALF MARATHON
Starts at 7:00am; Marathon 7:30am and Kiwanis Club of Greater Napa Fun Run 5K, 7:30am. Expo: Saturday, March 2, 9am – 5pm, Napa Valley Marriott Hotel and Spa – Free to attend. Half Marathon starts at Conn Creek Winery and the Marathon in Calistoga and takes place along the beautiful Silverado Trail, from Calistoga, south to the finish line at Vintage High School in Napa. www.napavalleymarathon.org / www.conncreek.com Saturday, March 16
TASTE OF YOUNTVILLE
The legendary Taste of Yountville is a day of food, wine and music held in the heart of Yountville featuring world-class chefs, wineries, and international recording artists. Tasting pavilions in downtown Yountville feature top restaurants sampling signature dishes, wineries pouring amazing selections, live musical performances, 14
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from emerging stars, chef demonstrations featuring local and celebrity chefs and artists, mixologists, craft beers, customized sponsor activations, and more each day. www.yountvillelive.com/ taste-of-yountville/
April 26 – 28
3RD ANNUAL CAMPOVELO
ARTS IN APRIL
Arts in April is a time of countywide celebration of the arts with live music, art fairs and exhibitions, storytelling, theatre performances, culinary arts, and hands on activities. www.artsinapril.com
3rd Annual CampoVelo - Three Days of World Class Cycling, Cuisine, and Libations in Napa Valley. Title sponsor Clif Bar & Company and former professional cyclist and chef Chris Cosentino is back with fellow cyclists, chefs, winemakers, and brewmasters with a winning recipe for a wellness weekend like no other. Beneficiaries include the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition and Chefs Cycle for No Kid Hungry. www.campovelo.com
Saturday, April 20
Saturday, April 27
Rotary of Napa presents their Annual Cycle4Sight. Their primary beneficiaries – The Pathway Home program and Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind, as well as numerous other local charities. They have three ride courses: 15, 25 and 50 miles—something for every kind of cyclist. Festival-only passes are available for those not riding. Early-bird pricing is available through March 1st, 2019. www.cycle4sight.com
10th Annual Cabernet Cook-off will feature over 750 wine and food enthusiasts coming together on the great lawn at HALL Wines in St. Helena to raise big money for local charities. This Star-Studded Event Features Bay Area Chefs Competing for a Local Charity of Their Choice. Located at 401 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, California. www.hallwines.com/cabernetcookoff
ANNUAL CYCLE4SIGHT
10TH ANNUAL CABERNET COOK-OFF
May 24 – 26
June 5-8
BottleRock will take place on Memorial Day Weekend. Doors open each day at 11:30am. Last act ends at 10:00pm. Three-day music, wine, food and craft brew festival taking place in the heart of the City of Napa at the Napa Valley Expo. NEW Bag Policy 2019: All bags are limited to two-pockets or less and must measure 14" x 14" or less. No backpacks are allowed. Fast Lanes will be available for guests entering with no bags. www.bottlerocknapavalley.com
The 8th Annual Brian Culburtson Jazz Getaway is four days of top jazz performers. www.jazzgetaway.com
BOTTLEROCK NAPA VALLEY
May 30 - June 2
75TH ANNUAL AUCTION NAPA VALLEY
Spend a weekend with some of America's most well-known vintners, sharing their finest wines in one of the world's most beautiful places. Add the chance to enjoy some of California's artful cuisine and the opportunity to bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and collections of Napa Valley's extraordinary wines. Sprinkle in the satisfaction that comes from generously supporting a community, and you've got the recipe for the world's most celebrated wine event. www.auctionnapavalley.org
NAPA VALLEY JAZZ GETAWAY
July 12-21
FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY
Festival Napa Valley is the 10 best days of summer with worldclass performances paired with culinary and wine pursuits staged in iconic wine country settings. www.festivalnapavalley.org July – (Four concerts to be announced in Spring 2019)
50TH MARGRIT MONDAVI SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Five Saturdays during the summer enjoy a variety of musicians and bands surrounded by vineyards. www.robertmondaviwinery.com Sunday, July 28
NAPA PORCHFEST
Napa Porchfest – out of the garage and onto to the porch. Napa neighbors and friends join together on over 40 porches in Downtown Napa to enjoy local music and food. www.napaporchfest.org August 1-4
June – August
FRIDAY NIGHTS
11th Annual Napa City Nights summer concert series Fridays from 6pm – 10pm. Free family entertainment in downtown Napa each Friday evening at the beautiful Veterans Memorial Park amphitheater in downtown Napa. www.napacitynights.com June – August (Thursday Nights)
CALISTOGA CONCERTS IN THE PARK
Calistoga Concerts in the Park is a series of free concerts, presented by the Calistoga Beverage Company scheduled every Thursday night. Bring your blankets, chairs and picnic dinner to enjoy this Calistoga favorite summer celebration. Adult beverages are allowed (for those 21 and over) and select, local wines available for purchase, highlighting a different winery each week. www.visitcalistoga.com
ANNUAL V FOUNDATION WINE CELEBRATION
Over 100-million dollars raised at past events have enabled the V Foundation to provide over 600 cancer research grants nationwide to date. Bay Area recipients include the Martin-O’Neil Cancer Center at St. Helena Hospital, Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa, Stanford University School of Medicine and UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Join coach Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski and other celebrity hosts for special intimate dinners, the popular Friday night “Rock the V” party and Saturday Gala. www.winecelebration.org Saturday, August 25
BLUES, BREWS & BBQ
Blues, Brews & BBQ -in downtown Napa, features live blues music, over 30 hard to find micro-brewed beers, and finger lickin' BBQ food from great BBQ masters. www.donapa.com
Provisions, clothing, furniture, art, leather, custom goods and items of distinction.
Something for everyone NOW OPEN!
1149 First Street, Napa 707-286-9996
www.calamityjanesnapavalley.com BEST OF 2019
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Sunday, September 9
CALISTOGA'S HARVEST TABLE
LUXE FORMULA, REFILLABLE, ECO-FRIENDLY, INTERCHANGEABLE and WEARABLE
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Approximately a dozen local restaurants and 40-plus wineries will once again welcome visitors and locals to 1,000 feet of tables in the center of the city’s picturesque downtown. Calistoga AVA wines will be the focus of a 4:30pm. social hour open to the public. Once the dinner bell rings at 6:00pm., those holding a ticket will take their seat at the table for an unparalleled culinary experience. Tickets for the sixth annual Calistoga Harvest Table® will go on sale on Monday, July 15, 2019 at noontime PDT. Tickets for the 2018 event sold out in 102 minutes. www.visitcalistoga.com September 21-22 and 28-29
OPEN STUDIOS NAPA VALLEY
Open Studios Napa Valley is a self-guided, art discovery tour through the creative art spaces of Napa Valley. Last year there were 71 local artists in 43 locations. All studios open both days from 10am until 5pm. www.artnv.org/open-studios September 23-29
SAFEWAY OPEN – PGA GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Safeway Open - a PGA golf tournament, as well as a concert series and food-andwine festival will be held at the Silverado Resort & Spa, Napa. Admission to live music after golf on Thursday, Friday and Saturday is included with your golf event ticket. Enjoy The Brew Loft, Spirits Lounge, Beers for Birdies and the Safeway Food & Wine Pavilion. www.safewayopen.com November – December
HOLIDAYS IN YOUNTVILLE
The town of Yountville twinkles with thousands of lights, with events including free carriage rides, a holiday movie series, wreath-making, and of course food and wine. www.yountville.com/ holidays-in-yountville/ 16
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November 12-17
CINEMA NAPA VALLEY
Cinema Napa Valley formerly the Napa Valley Film Festival - premiers of films from small Indies to potential Oscar nominees. www.cinemanapavalley.org Saturday, December 7
CALISTOGA LIGHTED TRACTOR PARADE
Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade - The ultimate small-town holiday parade in celebration of Calistoga's agricultural heritage. Vintage and modern tractors, antique trucks, and construction equipment bedecked with dazzling lights parade down Calistoga’s charming main street. www.visitcalistoga.com
Beyond the Valley April 26-29
AUSTIN FOOD+WINE FESTIVAL Three days of food from 50+ Top Restaurants and chefs with cooking demonstrations, guided tastings from master sommeliers, mixologists, winemakers and brewmasters. www.austinfoodandwine festival.com
Napa Valley Events to be Announced November-April CABERNET SEASON
January TRUFFLE SEASON IN NAPA VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEK
February PREMIERE NAPA VALLEY
T a s t e. E x p l o r e. E x p e r i e n c e. A w a r d e d 2 0 1 9 B e s t O f S u s t a i n a b l e W i n e To u r i s m - G r e a t W i n e C a p i t a l s
L o ca ted in th e r en own ed Ruth er f o r d g r owin g region, ex p er i en ce Fr en ch ch âteau tr aditio n with N ap a Valley ter roir.
Mention Napa Valley Life to enjoy 20% savings on My Virtú White Wine Blending or Five Bordeaux Varietals & Your Five Senses interactive tasting experiences through March 2019.
Estate Grown | Sustainably Farmed | Certified Napa Green
St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery
8440 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford CA, 94573 | 707.302.3488 | stsupery.com
NVL things to do
ELEGANT WINE TOURS with Liam Mac Cana BY FRAN MILLER
Photo courtesy of Matthew Baum
L
iam Mac Cana is not your ordinary wine tour guide. Like others in the industry, he owns and operates the requisite luxury vehicles (from Towncars to limousines and soon he’ll add a fourteen seat Sprinter van to the fleet.) He’s prompt and personable, and he knows the byways and mountain roads that lead to the valley’s numerous wineries. But Mac Cana’s Elegant Wine Tours entail so much more than transportation. What sets him apart is his wine knowledge and his close relationships with some of the valley’s most esteemed winemakers and tasting room managers. These relationships provide access – access not typically afforded to everyone in the tour business. Originally from the west coast of Ireland, Mac Cana has lived in the Napa Valley since 2014, and in that time, has created an invaluable network of contacts that benefit his clients. In addition, he holds an advanced certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), and has spent two decades within the international wine industry, daily honing his wine knowledge. He delivers not only local insights, but a wider comprehension of the wine-making process, the vines, and their history. Acting essentially as a matchmaker between his clients and wineries, Mac Cana’s 18
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tours are curated to each guest, with whom he might collaborate months in advance of a booking in order to obtain the information to create meaningful experiences. He is best known for creating personally curated itineraries that resonate, and in addition to wine tasting, this might include biking, ballooning, kayaking, or running (Mac Can is an avid trail runner) – whatever the client desires. An Elegant Wine Tours sojourn is a holistic experience where guests’ wine knowledge (or lack of), preferences, and interests are of paramount importance in the tour planning. What kind of wines are favored? Are large wineries or small boutique gems preferred? Does a guest want to claim discovery of a largely unknown spot, or perhaps gain bragging rights for gaining access to an exclusive label? Mac Cana has the knowledge and the connections to make it happen.
“We love working with Liam!” said Julie Johnson, proprietor and winemaker at St. Helena’s Tres Sabores winery. “We are very small at Tres Sabores, and Liam knows our winery and style extremely well and is able to bring visitors that are prepared for our particular experience. He’s a true Napa Valley concierge, taking his customers’ preferences to heart and customizing for them the perfect day. They leave us, and him, feeling happy and well informed.”
“ I want each of my guests to take away something more than a bottle of wine,” said Mac Cana. “My hope is that they take away an increased passion for the world of wine and most importantly, extraordinary memories!” FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.elegantwinetours.com 707-312-1352
Offering tailored Interior Design services throughout the Napa Valley and beyond.
–kitchen + bath design –custom furniture –window treatments
Napa Valley’s 1929 Fire Engine Mobile Bar
–color consultation –space planning –decor + styling
LINDSEYALBRECHTDESIGN.COM PHONE: (707) 690-0956
Introducing:
Where one great moment folds into the next 9 Tasting Rooms Cooking Classes Fivetown Grocery Picnic Services Concerts and More Open 11:00am to 7:00pm daily. Walk ins welcome! 850 Bordeaux Way • Napa, CA 94558 VillageNapaValley.com @villagenapavalley
Cornerstone Cellars | Fivetown Grocery Foley Food and Wine Society | GEN 7 Wines Jayson by Pahlmeyer | Luna Vineyards | Mi Sueño Winery Napa Smith Brewery | Trinitas Cellars | The Wine Foundry
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BEST OF 2019
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NVL what's hot
Thomas Keller’s Newest Addition – La Calenda
Winemaker's Pantry Spices Up the Valley Wine country just got a little tastier with the launch of Winemaker’s Pantry by Napa private chef and Food Network contestant-personality Sharon Damante. Her line of spice blends, crafted to pair with specific wine varietals, has been popping up at wineries including Silverado Vineyards and Jacuzzi Family and, at retail icons like Oakville Grocery. Damante, who has been mentored on air by both Chef Curtis Stone and Guy Fieri, says her “grape idea” fills a delicious niche, making it easy for wine-loving cooks to create great pairings at home.” Winemaker's Pantry Spice Pairings are available for Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Sauv Blanc, in retail bottles and gift packets for wine clubs. www.winemakerspantry.com
Calamity Jane’s Trading Co. The Wild West has met Wine Country. Owners Steve and Cathy Becker are bringing custom and legacy goods to visitors and locals alike as they search high and low for unique gifts, art, decor and apparel. The new First Street retail shop in Downtown Napa promises a good time with great people and products and over the top service. www.calamityjanesnapavalley.com
The Thomas Keller Restaurant Group has recently opened its newest dining establishment in Yountville in the coveted location where Hurley’s Restaurant reined for many years. La Calenda was named after the traditional Oaxacan parade that celebrates community festivities. The cuisine combines authentic Oaxacan flavors with fresh and artisanal ingredients presented in a family friendly environment. Their creative menu is paired with an ambitious beverage program, which includes a wide variety of Tequila’s, Mezcal’s, beers and local wines selected in partnership with the Mexican-American Vintners Association. www.lacalendamex.com
Who is Guy Barstad? After 47 years in the Napa Valley restaurant business, front man Guy Barstad is moving towards a more private atmosphere taking with him his considerable contacts and connections to hidden gems in the Valley. He has joined forces with Cultured Vine, an exclusive concierge service for an elevated experience in wine country and beyond, which includes private jets, customized itineraries and private dinners. www.culturedvine.com
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Hidden Gem in the Wine Country
Hidden Gem in the Wine Country
Long before “wine country” was synonymous with Napa Valley, there was Napa Valley Country Club, a
Long before “winegem country” was synonymous Napa Valley Country Club, a tucked-away in the bucolic foothills of thewith VacaNapa Range,Valley, located there in the was middle of the Coombsville American Viticulture Area. Napa Valleyfoothills Country of Club over one hundred years ago, inof 1915, is the only American tucked-away gem in the bucolic thebegan Vacalife Range, located in the middle theand Coombsville private proprietary Club in Napa Viticulture Area. Napa Country Valley Country ClubCounty. began life over one hundred years ago, in 1915, and is the only private proprietary Country Club in Napa County.
One of the oldest golf and Country Clubs in California, NVCC is a magnificent 18 hole layout, with a sparkling craftsman-style clubhouse, built in 2004, superb tennis facilities and a stunning 25-meter pool, all in a pristine One ofsetting the oldest and Country in California, NVCC is a Napa magnificent 18 holeClub layout, with a sparkling of 181golf acres. Located just aClubs few miles from downtown Napa, Valley Country exists in the craftsman-style clubhouse, built in 2004, superb tennis facilities and a stunning 25-meter pool, all in a pristine splendid isolation of gently-sloping hills, tree-lined fairways and challenging, inscrutable greens!
setting of 181 acres. Located just a few miles from downtown Napa, Napa Valley Country Club exists in the Napa Valley Country Club is also the place where over 100-Member spendinscrutable their recreational time with splendid isolation of gently-sloping hills, tree-lined fairways and Vintners challenging, greens!
family and fellow Members. The Club boasts a “Member-Only” Wine List filled with special selections and releases privy to its Club Members andthe guests. Napa Valley Country is also place where over 100-Member Vintners spend their recreational time with
family and fellow Members. The Club boasts a “Member-Only” Wine List filled with special selections and releases privy to its Members and guests. Full or Single Golf ▪ Social
Junior ▪ Corporate ▪ Non-Resident
Full or Single Golf ▪ Social Wedding Destination ▪ Special Events Membership Opportunites are by Invitation Only.
Junior ▪ Corporate ▪ Non-Resident
Wedding Destination ▪ Special Events Membership Opportunites are by Invitation Only.
Inquiries Welcome
Jeanne Johnston, General Manager 707.603.3486
jeannej@napavalleycc.com Inquiries Welcome
www.napavalleycc.com
Jeanne Johnston, General Manager 707.603.3486
jeannej@napavalleycc.com
www.napavalleycc.com
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LOCH & UNION DISTILLING
Raising
bar the
ON SPIRITS
BY KARI RUEL | PHOTOS BY LOWELL DOWNEY ART & CLARITY
Life’s path is not always straight. Typically, after earning a master’s degree, one settles into a career and so begins the journey. Not so for Colin Baker. Just two years after graduating from USC with a master’s degree in accounting and landing a job at one of the Big Four accounting firms in Los Angeles, Baker realized he had zero intellectual motivation for his job. He decided to leave the security of a life he’d just started and pursue a career in crafting beer.
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“I was obsessed with home brewing,” said Colin. “And I was really good at it. A guy who used to work in the London office of my accounting firm had quit his job and opened a brewery, so I decided to quit my job and move to London to join him.”
B
aker’s intention was to make the United Kingdom his new home, but he needed a long-term visa to stay. For that reason, he enrolled in the Master’s in Brewing & Distilling Program at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland. There he discovered Scotch whisky and fell in love with the process and technique of distillation. “As weird as it is, I am happy that I was so unhappy at what I was doing,” mused Baker. “I might not have done something as outrageous as quitting my job and moving to another country to work in a totally different industry without any formal training.” Baker was one of the top students in his class and it was becoming more and more apparent he had an excellent palate for spirits. Now Baker’s creative mind was spinning. His life path was clearer. He wanted to open his own distillery. He recruited his friend Matt Meyer, who he had met years before when studying at the London School of Economics to go into business with him, and so began the three-year process of planning their new company. Baker’s engineering-like brain began designing three unique stills. Once he perfected his designs, he approached the top German still manufacturer – Carl GmbH – to take his drawings and make it a reality. “What I designed was way beyond anything they had built for the American market and at first, they didn’t take me seriously because it was so ambitious, but when I had the money to fund it, they knew I was serious,” said Baker. “They went above and beyond for us. We are now their American flagship for distilling equipment.” Baker said the craftsmanship of their distilling facility is ‘insane.’ All three stills were designed for a specific function. Much of Baker’s planning for this project was at the student union building at Heriot-Watt and his dorm room that overlooked the campus loch. Hence the name Loch & Union Distilling. Now they needed to find the talent to help make their dream come true. Baker recruited two other master distillers from his class at Heriot-Watt; brewer Jesse Saunders and Gordon Russell, who also has a background in microbiology. Then they added two hires from the wine side of the business; Gian Nelson, a former Marine turned winemaker turned distiller, and Zach Carrubba, former sommelier and restaurant manager in fine dining. Jeff Blumer, rock star musician, was then hired to run the office. The award-winning crew was complete. But where to set up shop? Baker made a promise to himself that he was going to make the best spirits possible and that meant top quality barrels for aging. FOR MORE INFORMATION 707-552-2006 // www.lochandunion.com
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There is no better place in the world for high-end barrels than Napa Valley. “We decided to come to Napa because we had access to the best new and used barrels anywhere,” he said. “We also have two world-class coopers down the street from us. The barrels were the initial reason for the move to Napa, but it’s turned out to be advantageous for additional reasons. From a branding standpoint putting Napa Valley on our label turned out to be more valuable than I thought. It signifies quality. We wanted to be associated with the reputation that Napa Valley has.” Baker pointed out that Napa took French wine and made it better. Now he wants to take high quality spirits and make them better. “Napa is our home now,” said Baker. “We want Loch & Union Distilling rooted here, but we want world-wide recognition with eventually an international brand. I’m humbled that my guys left good jobs and moved to the Napa Valley to start a new life,” he added. The team is close and works well together. Jesse created the award-winning recipe for their gin, which took over a year and nearly 500 trial distillations to get right. In 2018 alone the distillery has won 17 industry awards, including California Gin Distillery of the Year at NY International Spirits Competition and multiple best in class honors. Baker describes their gin as clean, subtle, elegant, and balanced. They are able to achieve this by controlling every step of the process, which is purely a result of having one of the most technologically sophisticated distilleries in the country. Their plan is to not rush any whiskey releases, so it will likely be at least another three years before that hits the market, but based on how it’s maturing the crew is more than optimistic of the results. Besides their own spirits, their facility is large enough to accommodate custom distilling projects from gin to whiskey to brandy and they are currently working with a few large clients. Now that Loch & Union is up and running, Baker said he has a good life/work balance. In his spare time, he volunteers for Giant Steps, a therapeutic equestrian center in Sonoma that specializes in therapy for people with disabilities. “Other than Jeff, none of us are from Napa or had a connection with Napa, but it has become our home,” said Baker. “We can’t imagine living and working anywhere else.” Oh, and for the accounting of the business – Baker said he keeps an arms-length away and let’s Matt and Jeff handle the day to day business stuff.
Matt Meyer Co-Founder
Colin Baker Co-Founder/ Master Distiller
From Left: Jesse Saunders (Lead Distiller), Gordon Russell (Head Distiller), Gian Nelson (Chief Distiller), Jeff Blumer (Office Manager/Rock Star), Colin Baker (Co-Founder/Master Distiller), Matt Meyer (Co-Founder)
Anthony Attanasio Bartender Extraordinaire
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2019 OF NAPA VALLEY • READERS CHOICE • 26
NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM
Grgich Hills Blessing. Photo by Lowell Downey / Art & Clarity
2019 VALLEY OF NAPA • READER
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You’ve wined, and dined, and shopped… and now, the votes are in. The variety and breadth of your Napa favorites – selected by readers both far and wide through online voting via our website – is illustrative of the incredible bounty of this verdant valley. We hope you’re able to spot your own choice for ‘best’ in our comprehensive list; more so, we hope that these winning wineries, restaurants, and boutiques pique your interest and inspire you to try something new. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you readers for your always insightful contributions. Go forth and explore!
Photo by Bob McClennahan BEST OF 2019
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Genova Deli
BEST
Family Restaurant Filipis Pizza Grotto P 707-254-9700 645 1st St., Napa www.realcheesepizza.com The vibe is old-school Italian and so is the food at this family favorite that serves much more than pizza. Everyone finds something to love on the menu that includes salads, soups, sandwiches, entrees, children’s plates, and gluten-free options. Order a take-out tray and turn any meal into a party.
2019 OF NAPA V ALLEY
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Sandwich Shop
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Genova Deli P 707-253-8686 • 1550 Trancas St, Napa • www. genovadelinapa.com Serving everything from amaretti to ziti, this world-famous deli has been a Napa mainstay since 1985. Customers love the old-world family recipes, fresh deli sandwiches, and the incredible variety of meats, cheeses, fresh pastas, sauces and of course the proprietary Nonni Gravy.
B rowns Valley Market - 2nd 707-253-1873 3263 Browns Valley Rd, Napa www.brownsvalleymeat.com
Giugni WF & Son Grocery - 3rd 707-963-3421 1227 Main St., St. Helena
BEST
Asian Food Eiko’s Modern Japanese Cuisine P 707-501-4444 • 1300 1st St., #385, Napa www.eikosnapa.com The freshest quality ingredients, a stylish interior, and warm hospitality provide the winning combination at this downtown mainstay serving Japanese classics with a modern twist. An extensive menu ensures that everyone in your party finds something to love.
Morimoto - 2nd 707-252-1600 610 Main St., Napa www.morimotonapa.com Napa Noodles - 3rd 707-492-8079 1124 1st St., Napa www.napanoodles.com
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HopCreek Pub - 2nd 707-257-7708 3253 Browns Valley Rd, Napa www.hopcreekpub.com Napa General Store - 3rd 707-259-0762 540 Main St., Napa www.napageneralstore.com
BEST
Seafood Hog Island Oyster Co. P 707-251-8113 • 601 1st St. #22, Napa www.hogislandoysters.com This Oxbow Public Market anchor features an oyster bar serving fresh shellfish direct from their eponymous Tomales Bay farm. The company takes great care in everything they do, from oyster cultivation to presentation of the end product.
Morimoto - 2nd 707-252-1600 • 610 Main St., Napa www.morimotonapa.com Osprey Seafood Market - 3rd 707-252-9120 • 1014 Wine Country Ave., Napa www.ospreyseafood.com
BEST
Mexican Restaurant Don Pericos P 707-252-4707 • 1106 1st St., Napa www.donpericos.com Quality, service, and passion are the Don Pericos hallmarks, as is the incredible selection of tequilas, and the mouthwatering house specialties such as the Don Pericos Salad, a mélange of grilled chicken, mixed greens, jack cheese, black olives, and diced tomato.
MARSHALL SAN FRANCISCO NAPA HUMBOLDT
Villa Corona Cocina Mexicana - 2nd 707-257-8685 • 3614 Bel Air Plaza, Napa www.villacoronacatering.com La Luna Market & Taqueria - 3rd 707-963-3211 • 1153 Rutherford Rd., Rutherford www.lalunamarket.com
Don Pericos / Photo by Kari Ruel
t s e B
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OXBOW PUBLIC MARKET • 610 1ST STREET, NAPA 707 251 8113 • HOGISLANDOYSTERS.COM BEST OF 2019 29
BEST
BEST
Pizza Papa Joe’s P 707-255-6525
BEST
Sushi Eiko’s Modern Japanese Cuisine P 707-501-4444 • 1300 1st St., #385, Napa www.eikosnapa.com Whether it’s the Ricky Ricardo signature roll, the Super California, or the 49er, Eikos realizes all of your sushi dreams. From nigiri to the classics, each item is skillfully and artfully prepared.
Morimoto - 2nd 707-252-1600 • 610 Main St., Napa www.morimotonapa.com Sushi Haku - 3rd 707-226-2996 3206 Jefferson St., Napa www.sushihakunapa.com
BEST
Steakhouse Coles Chop House P 707-224-6328 • 1122 Main St., Napa www.coleschophouse.com The menu features 21–day dry–aged U.S.D.A. certified prime steaks and Midwestern corn–fed Black Angus beef, but it might be their national recognition as a ‘Great Bourbon Bar of America’ with a selection of over 175 hand-selected Bourbons that keeps the fans satiated.
Press - 2nd 707-967-0550 587 St. Helena Hwy., St. Helena www.pressnapavalley.com Charlie Palmer - 3rd 707-819-2500 1260 1st St., Napa www.charliepalmersteak 30
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Italian Food Bistro Don Giovanni P 707-224-3300
1121 Lincoln Ave., Napa www.papajoespizzaca.com
4110 Howard Ln., Napa www.bistrodongiovanni.com
For more than 30 years, locally owned Papa Joe’s has been making some of the best pizza in town. Fans love the homemade dough, premium meats and cheeses, and plentiful toppings. (Don’t bother asking for the recipe for their beloved house made ranch dressing. It’s a well-kept secret.)
The festive atmosphere of this Napa favorite continues to inspire. Add a daily changing menu of traditional Italian dishes made with sustainablyfarmed and locally grown produce, crafted cocktails, and hundreds of Napa Valley and Italian wines, and the combo simply can’t be beat.
Azzurro Pizzeria E Enoteca - 2nd 707-255-5552 1260 Main St., Napa www.azzurropizzeria.com
Oenotri - 2nd 707-252-1022 1425 1st St., Napa www.oenotri.com
Foodshed Take Away - 3rd 707-255-3340 3385 Old California Way, Napa www.foodshedpizza.org
Ristorante Allegria - 3rd 707-254-8006 1026 1st St., Napa www.ristoranteallegria.com
Gott's Roadside / Photo by Kari Ruel
BEST
Hamburger Gott’s Roadside P 707-963-3486 • 933 Main St., St. Helena • www.gotts.com Fans can choose between two Napa locations: the original on St. Helena’s Main Street with its al fresco picnic tables, and an Oxbow Market outpost. Both serve mouthwatering, juicy burgers made-to-order, as well as bountiful seasonal salads, fish tacos, and deliciously thick milk shakes.
Squeeze Burger - 2nd 707-257-6880 3383 Solano Ave., Napa www.squeezeinnhamburgers.com Goose & Gander - 3rd 707-967-8779 1245 Spring St., St. Helena www.goosegander.com
Bistro Don Giovanni / Photo by Kari Ruel
BEST
2019
Brunch Boonfly Café P 707-299-4870 4048 Sonoma Hwy., Napa www.boonflycafe.com
OF NAPA V ALLEY • READER
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The fun, lively, and vibrant atmosphere is a draw, as are the Boon Fly donuts and the Breakfast Super Burrito. This festive cafe serves modern rustic cuisine in a contemporary roadhouse atmosphere.
Napa General Store - 2nd 707-259-0762 • 540 Main St., Napa www.napageneralstore.com The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil - 3rd 800-348-5406 • 180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford www.aubergeresorts.com
BEST
Breakfast Boon Fly Café P 707-299-4870 4048 Sonoma Hwy., Napa www.boonflycafe.com
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As with brunch, breakfast at Boon Fly is served within an amiable atmosphere where everyone is treated like family. Don’t miss the Boon Fly Chicken & Waffle with Mary's chicken, malt waffle pepper jam, maple syrup, and whipped brown butter.
ABC Bakery - 2nd 707-258-1827 1517 3rd St., Napa www.abcnapa.com Southside Café - 3rd 707-492-3733 2270 Old Sonoma Rd., Napa www.southsidenapa.com 3385 Old California Way, Napa 707.255.3340 | foodshedpizza.org
BEST
BEST
Happy Hour
Wine List French Laundry P 707-944-2380
Modern PEiko’s Japanese Cuisine
One of few wineries in the Valley that continues to welcome walk-ins, Grgich hosts its drop-in guests in a main tasting room where oak barrels surround with the seductive aromas of wines in various stages of development. Reserve ahead to enjoy a seated tasting paired with artisan cheeses.
Sky & Vine at Archer - 2nd 707-819-2490 1260 1st St., Napa skyandvine.com
Schramsberg Vineyards - 2nd 707-942-4558 1400 Schramsberg Rd, Calistoga www.schramsberg.com
Napkins Bar & Grill - 3rd 707-927-5333 1001 2nd St., Napa www.napanoodles.com
Compline - 3rd 707-492-8150 • 1300 1st St #312, Napa www.complinewine.com
BEST
Wine Bar
BEST
tie
Wine Thief PThe 707-666-2650 708 1st St., Napa www.twtnapa.com
Renowned for his culinary skill and exceptionally high standards, Keller could set up shop anywhere in the world. Napa residents and visitors are fortunate that he’s chosen California wine country as his home base. The French Laundry, his acclaimed, three Michelin-starred Yountville eatery, maintains its status as the most coveted reservation in the valley.
Vintner owned and operated, this tasting lounge focuses on putting back in the hands of its visitors the small, family owned brands that make Napa Valley so unique. A place solely focused on the little guy and the unknowns, The Wine Thief has curated a collection of small production, hand crafted wines, each with its own story.
Cindy Pawlcyn - 2nd www.cindypawlcyn.com
Chef Thomas Keller, Photo byNAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM Deborah Jones 32
1829 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford www.grgich.com
Entitled the ‘social hour,’ Eiko’s offers drink and food specials from 4 – 6pm in their swank lounge. Eiko’s calamari or Alaska roll for less than $10, and a glass of wine for $5? Yes, please.
Bounty Hunter - 2nd 707-226-3976 • 975 1st St., Napa www.bountyhunterwinebar.com
Christopher Cosentino - 3rd www.chriscosentino.com
Estates PGrgich Hills 707-963-2784
707-501-4444 1300 1st St., #385, Napa www.eikosnapa.com
Staggering in its breadth and depth of offerings, The French Laundry wine list features bottles from all of the world’s major grape-growing regions, each of which tells the distinctive story of its origins—the soil, the winemaker, the style, the grape, the vintage—and is selected for how those characteristics distinguish it from other wines on the list.
Thomas Keller P www.thomaskeller.com
Winery Tasting Room
6640 Washington St, Yountville www.thomaskeller.com
Chef
BEST
tie
Peju Province Winery - 3rd 707-963-3600 8466 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford www.peju.com Frank Family - 3rd 707-942-0859 1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga www.frankfamilyvineyards.com
BEST
Wine Club The Wine Thief P 707-666-2650 708 1st St., Napa www.twtnapa.com
Compline - 2nd 707-492-8150 1300 1st St #312, Napa www.complinewine.com
Members of the Thick as Thieves club receive twice annual shipments of boutique wine varietals, allowing members to keep their cellars stocked with wine country memories. An invitation to the annual member only golf tournament is a valued perk.
Bounty Hunter - 2nd 707-226-3976 975 1st St., Napa www.bountyhunterwinebar.com
Clif Family Winery - 2nd 707-968-0625 709 Main St., St. Helena www.cliffamily.com
Cadet Wine Bar Napa - 3rd 707-224-4400 930 Franklin St., Napa www.cadetbeerandwinebar.com
Peju Province Winery - 3rd 707-963-3600 8466 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford www.peju.com
Photo by Art & Clarity
BEST
Local Winemaker Barrett PHeidi www.lasirenawine.com Dubbed ‘The Queen of Cabernet’ by Robert Parker, Heidi Barrett is also known as the hardest working winemaker in Napa. Eight wineries and ten brands showcase her winemaking artistry, and she oversees her own label, La Sirena while partnering with husband Bo Barrett (winemaker for Chateau Montelena) in crafting wines for their joint venture Barrett and Barrett.
Sara Fowler - 2nd www.peju.com Ivo Jeramaz - 3rd www.grgich.com
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Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant 707-257-5200 • 610 1st St., Napa www.fpwm.com
Wine Tour Valley Wine Train PNapa 707-253-2111 1275 McKinstry St, Napa www.winetrain.com Part distinctive Napa Valley fine dining restaurant, part journey, part museum, the Wine Train’s faithfully restored vintage early 20th century Pullman cars provide the perfect backdrop for exploring wine country. Sit back, relax, and savor every bite and every sip.
Pure Luxury - 2nd 800-626-5466 www.pureluxury.com Platypus Tours - 3rd 707-253-2723 101 S. Coombs St., Napa www.platypustours.com
Napa Valley Wine Tour di Amorosa PCastello 707-967-6272 4045 St. Helena Hwy. St. Helena www.castellodiamorosa.com Dario Sattui's authenticallybuilt, 13th century-style Tuscan castle and winery is perpetually awe-inducing. This architectural masterpiece features authentic elements including a moat, drawbridge, defensive ramparts, courtyards, loggias, a chapel, stables, and some of the most beautiful vaulted wine cellars in the world. And yes, some pretty great wines too.
Domaine Carneros - 2nd 1240 Duhig Rd., Napa www.domainecarneros.com
BEST
BEST
BEST
Opus One - 3rd 707-944-9442 7900 St. Helena Hwy., Oakville www.opusonewinery.com
Choose from the boutique assortment of wines from artisanal producers all around the world and enjoy your selection with delicious cheeses selected by the expert cheese mongers. Sit at the bar and savor your selection, or grab and go. Either way, you’ll no doubt pick a winner from their incredible selection.
Bounty Hunter - 2nd 707-226-3976 • 975 1st St., Napa www.bountyhunterwinebar.com Trader Joe’s - 3rd 707-256-0806 3654 Bel Aire Plaza, Napa www.traderjoes.com
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BEST
BEST
Live Music Venue
High-End Winery Opus One Estate P PGrgich Hills 707-963-2784 tie 707-944-9442 1829 St. Helena Hwy. Rutherford www.grgich.com
7900 St. Helena Hwy. Oakville www.opusonewinery.com
Visitors seeking memorable wine tasting experiences are never disappointed at Grgich, where the high-end ‘The Exclusive’ tasting includes a ‘from vine to bottle’ tour and flights of older and limited production vintages, as well as a selection of cheeses.
A visit to Opus One offers the opportunity to gain insight into its French and American origins as well as the chance to learn about vineyard and winemaking practices. Visitors to the estate are invited to reflect upon the delicious wines while enjoying the winery’s breathtaking grounds.
Quintessa - 2nd 707-967-1601 1601 Silverado Trail S. St. Helena www.quintessa.com
Fantesca - 3rd 707-968-9229 2920 Spring Mountain Rd., St. Helena www.fantesca.com
Note Napa PBlue 707-880-2300 1030 Main St., Napa www.bluenotenapa.com Downtown Napa’s snazziest entertainment venue occupies the first floor of the historic Napa Valley Opera House and is host to the biggest names in jazz. Whether seated in a four-person premier booth, at a table, or in the general admission bar area, there’s not a bad vantage point in the intimate, 100-seat house.
Robert Mondavi Summer Concert - 2nd 888-766-6328 7801 St Helena Hwy, Oakville www.robertmondaviwinery.com Uptown Theatre - 3rd 707-259-0123 • 1350 3rd St., Napa www.uptowntheatrenapa.com
BEST
Band
Goose and Gander / Photo by Bob McClenahan
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Bar/Cocktails and Gander PGoose 707-967-8779 1245 Sprint St., St. Helena www.goosegander.com Crafted cocktails, an extensive wine list, and beers galore accompany mouthwatering bar bites and elevated American cuisine at this historic 1920’s bungalow. Imbibe by the rustic fireplace or head to the patio where an amiable and festive atmosphere always reigns.
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Boots PGraveyard Journey Days Take
A Flight Cappella - 2nd The Deadlies - 3rd
BEST
Budget Conscious Winery Winery PPeju Province 707-963-3600 8466 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford www.peju.com The Peju property and its wines are approachable and are enjoyed by both wine novices and aficionados alike. This certified organic, Napa Green winery is distinguished by the unusually pruned 40 ft. Sycamore trees that line its front entry.
Sky & Vine at Archer - 2nd 707-819-2490 1260 1st St., Napa www.skyandvine.com
Robert Biale Vineyards - 2nd 707-257-7555 • 4038 Big Ranch Rd., Napa www.biale.com
Acacia House - 3rd 1915 Main St., St. Helena www.marriott.com
Cosentino - 3rd 800-764-1220 7415 St Helena Hwy, Yountville www.cosentinowinery.com
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BEST
Concierge Lambert PAshley Pamela Grinnewald - 2nd
tie
Ballentine Davis - 3rd Royce Ann Hawkins - 3rd
BEST
Boutique Winery & Winery PViader Vineyards 707-963-3816 1220 Deer Park Rd. Deer Park www.viader.com Viader is recognized worldwide for consistently producing award-winning, very limited production red Bordeaux-style blends, and is a leading first growth Napa Valley estate established in 1986 by trailblazer Delia Viader. Private tastings are enjoyed on the western facing slopes of their Howell Mountain property at 1,300 feet.
James Cole Estate Winery - 2nd 707-251-9905 5014 Silverado Trail, Napa www.jamescolewinery.com St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery - 3rd 707-255-5591 • 816 Vallejo St., Napa www.stclairbrown.com
BEST
Wedding Location
PAuberge Du Soleil 800-348-5406 180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford www.aubergeresorts.com Boasting a romantic ‘South of France’ vibe, this Auberge Collection resort provides the perfect atmosphere in which to pledge one’s love. Nestled in a sunlit olive grove on the slopes of Rutherford Hill, the resort’s distinctive layout features spectacular views, providing the perfect setting for both selfies and staged pix.
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Silverado Resort and Spa - 2nd 707-257-0200 1600 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa www.silveradoresort.com Meritage Resort & Spa - 3rd 855-318-1768 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa www.meritagecollection.com
BEST
Golf Course
P 707-257-0200
Silverado Resort & Spa 1600 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa www.silveradoresort.com Two PGA courses, redesigned by PGA Hall-of-Famer and Silverado owner Johnny Miller, are surrounded by Napa Valley’s golden hills, and offer some of the nation’s best golf. Access is limited to members and resort guests, promising an exclusive day on the links.
Chardonnay Golf Club - 2nd 707-257-1900 2555 Jameson Canyon Rd, American Canyon www.chardonnaygolfclub.com Napa Valley Country Club - 3rd 707-252-1111 3385 Hagen Rd., Napa www.napavalleycc.com Photo courtesy of Viader Vineyards & Winery
2019
BEST
Kept Secret Spot in Napa Valley Clair Brown Winery PSt. 707-255-5591 816 Vallejo St., Napa www.stclairbrown.com Its ‘city’ location may be a surprise, but the secret is definitely out… there’s no more charming spot in which to enjoy a glass, bottle, beer on tap, or small plate meal than within its hidden garden tasting patio where pups are always welcome.
DiRosa Art Preserve - 2nd 707-226-5991 5200 Sonoma Highway www.dirosaart.org Brasswood Cellars - 3rd 707-302-5997 3111 St. Helena Hwy. N St. Helena www.brasswood.com
BEST
Wine Country Event
PBottleRock www.bottlerocknapavalley.com This three-day music, food, and craft brew festival held each May features the hottest acts in pop music and is Napa’s kick-off to summer. Bruno Mars headlined last year. Need we say more?
tie
Auction Napa Valley - 2nd www.auctionnapavalley.org Napa Valley Film Festival now Cinema Napa Valley - 2nd 707-226-7500 1400 Clay St., Napa www.cinemanapavalley.org Music in the Vineyards - 3rd 707-258-5559 1020 Clinton St #201, Napa www.musicinthevineyards.org
BEST
Bed and Breakfast
Boutique Hotel
PPoetry Inn 707-944-0650
PAndaz 707-687-1234
6380 Silverado Trail, Napa www.poetryinn.com
1450 1st St., Napa www.hyatt.com
With panoramic valley views from every vantage point, a private wine cellar stocked with varied vintages from owner Cliff Lede’s award-winning labels, and perhaps the best hotel breakfast in wine country, it’s easy to see why Poetry Inn is the insiders’ choice for Napa Valley lodging.
Enjoy a complimentary glass of local red or white at check-in, as well as afternoon cookies or popcorn at this downtown favorite where agri-chic décor helps to define its wine country sense-of-place. As does the lobby’s wall-length Napa Valley map, branded with logo stickers from some of the area’s notable wineries.
Blackbird Inn - 2nd 707-226-2450 1755 1st St. Napa www.blackbirdinnnapa.com
Bardessono - 2nd 707-204-6000 6526 Yount St., Yountville www.bardessono.com
Lavender, a Four Sisters Inn - 3rd 707-944-1388 2020 Webber Ave., Yountville www.lavendarnapa.com
Hotel Yountville - 3rd 707-967-7900 6462 Washington St., Yountville www.hotelyountville.com
Ou r most si ncere appreci atio n g o es o u t to everyone wh o voted fo r us a s o n e of Napa Val l ey' s b est. We a re h u mb l ed and gr atef u l f o r the s upp o rt a n d d edi cati on we recei ve fro m o ur c l i e n ts , m e m b er s, f r i ends, nei gh bo rs a n d Na pa Va l ley com m u ni t y as a who le . Th ank You .
BEST
VOTED TOP THREE,
BEST BOUTIQUE WINERY NAPA VALLEY LIFE MAGAZINE
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www.jamescolewinery.com 707-251-9905 • 5014 Silverado Trail, Napa
BEST
BEST
Clothing Store – Women
Hotel
PMeritage Resort & Spa 855-318-1768
PBoHo Lifestyle
875 Bordeaux Way, Napa www.meritagecollection.com Guests love the warm hospitality, the on-site chapel, the spacious pool deck, and the Trinitas tasting room at this resort located at ‘the gateway’ to wine country. Luxurious accommodations with traditional décor in cabernet hues capture sense of place.
Meadowood Resort and Spa - 2nd 707-531-4788 900 Meadwood Ln., St. Helena www.meadowood.com Silverado Resort & Spa - 3rd 707-257-0200 1600 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa www.silveradoresort.com
707-337-5870 1012 1st St., Napa www.shopboholifestyle.com
BEST
Jewelry Store Valley Jewelers PNapa 707-224-0997 1300 1st St., Ste. 365, Napa www.napavalleyjewelers.com For more than 25 years this shop – now located within the First Street Napa complex – has provided its customers with unique jewelry items. And now, in its new location, find a curated collection of art glass from artisans the world-over.
Creations Fine Jewelers - 2nd 707-252-8131 3341 Solano Ave., Napa www.creationsfinejewelers.com Findings - 3rd 707-963-6000 1371 Main St., St. Helena
BEST
Cigar Friendly Place Cigars PNapa 707-251-1513 • 1147 1st St., Napa www.napacigars.net Whether new to the cigar world or a discerning aficionado, Napa Cigar patrons are invited to relax and enjoy a premium cigar in the spacious lounge. Napa Cigar takes pride in bringing its clients the very best from major cigar rollers from around the world to smaller boutique brands.
Sidestreet Napa Valley - 2nd 760 Main St., Napa www.sidestreetnapa.com Brasswood Estates - 3rd 707-302-5101 • 3111 St Helena Hwy St Helena • www.brasswood.com 38 NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM Photo courtesy of Meritage Resort & Spa
Not only a store, but a feeling, BoHo Lifestyle features diverse, affordable, and ontrend fashions to suit every identity, whether sensual, edgy, or chic.
Mustard Seed Clothing Store - 2nd 707-255-4222 1227 1st St., Napa www.mustardseedclothing.com
Helen Lyall Clothes for Women - 3rd 707-252-7400 650 Main St., Napa www.helenlyall.com
BEST
Clothing Store – Men Scott Lyall Clothes P for Men 707-933-8770 614 Main St., Napa www.scottlyallclothes.com Following his mom Helen’s passion for fashion, Lyall nestled his men’s store next to hers at Napa’s scenic Riverfront. Find here a sophisticated mix of innovative, contemporary clothing for men, from labels such as Zenfari, Autumn Cashmere, and the Ben Sherman Collection.
Mario’s Napa Valley - 2nd 707-963-1603 1223 Main St., St. Helena www.mariosnapavalley.com Williamson & Company - 3rd 707-224-5284 1144 Main St., Napa www.williamsonandcompany.com
BEST
Place to Take a Date du Soleil PAuberge 800-348-5406 180 Rutherford Hill Rd. Rutherford www.aubergeresorts.com
2019
BEST
LLEY
Day Spa / Salon Spa Terra at Meritage Resort & Spa P 855-318-1768 • 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa
VA APA OF N •R
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www.meritagecollection.com Guests wander beneath the Meritage vineyards to experience the tranquil Spa Terra, located inside an underground estate cave. The hushed serenity of this unique spa setting and the restorative treatments provide for total relaxation.
The Spa at Silverado - 2nd 707-257-0200 1600 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa www.silveradoresort.com
Meadowood Spa - 3rd 707-531-4788 900 Meadwood Ln., St. Helena www.meadowood.com
What more can we say about this Rutherford gem? The resort’s openair gallery with 110 figurative and abstract works by California artists that weave within garden paths, a flowing stream, and olive trees is the perfect spot to meander with a date, glass of wine in-hand.
The French Laundry - 2nd 707-944-2380 6640 Washington St. Yountville www.thomaskeller.com Hike to Table Rock (Robert Louis Stephenson Park) - 3rd www.alltrails.com
Voted Napa’s Best Spa by Napa Valley Life Magazine
In the hillside directly behind The Meritage Resort lies Spa Terra, a luxury spa located entirely underground in our 22,000 square foot Estate Wine Cave. Experience the hushed serenity of the cave, with natural stone and copper water features combined with a locally-inspired treatment menu.
875 Bordeaux Way | Napa, CA 94558 707.251.3000 | SpaTerra.com
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2019 OF NAPA VALLEY • READERS CHOICE •
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Using local products and services are important to us at Napa Valley Life. Local businesses are who primarily supports our magazine and for that we thank our advertising family. Having said that, this year’s winners were not tied to advertising nor are our Editor’s Choice. Local businesses are the foundation of our vibrant community.
BEST
BEST
Sports Bar
Florist
Napa’s Steakhouse and P Sports Lounge
Beau Fleurs P Flower Company
BEST
Coffee Place Napa Valley Roasting P Company
707-224-7993 1508 Silverado Trail, Napa www.napavalleyflowers.com
707-927-5956 145 Gasser Dr Ste A, Napa www.napasportsteakhouse.com
1400 Oak Ave, St. Helena 948 Main Street, Napa www.napavalleycoffee.com
Beau Fleurs Flower Company has showcased their creativity and fun loving spirit through their floral concepts and design. Utilizing premium flowers with fun textures and materials, the experienced shop focuses on their clients first while paying attention to every detail throughout the event.
Napa’s Steakhouse and Sports Lounge concept is unique in that its two restaurants in one. One half is a large, open floor plan sports lounge. The other half is a classic yet modern steakhouse with no televisions. For the sports-lovers NapaSport has plenty
Founded in 1985 by Leon Sange in St. Helena. His son, Ben Sange now runs the operation. It’s a popular hang-out for locals and tourists alike. Besides serving fresh roasted coffee, they teach cupping classes and can do custom blends for consumers and businesses.
of TV’s and great food.
BEST
BEST
Ethnic Restaurant Mediterranean Grill PTarla 707-255-5599 1480 First Street, Napa www.tarlagrill.com Tarla Mediterranean Grill has been serving up fresh Mediterranean cuisine for seven years in their downtown Napa location. You can’t beat their Turkish meatballs, humus, lamb kabob’s and their signature cocktails.
Kitchen Retailer
PShackfords 707-690-1602 1350 Main Street, Napa www.facebook.com/ ShackfordsKitchenStore/
BEST
Wine Shipping Shipping Post PBuffalo 707-226-7942 2471 Solano Ave, Napa www.buffship.com
An old staple in the community, this kitchen gadget fine has new ownership that promises to keep the old traditions and great value going while introducing new culinary products and accessories.
Since 1992, Buffalo's Shipping Post has been shipping countless bottles of wine to locations around the globe! They have numerous carriers to choose from and all the packing supplies.
BEST
Dive Bar
Place to Buy Gifts
P 707-259-0762
Napa General Store 540 Main Street, Napa www.napageneralstore.com Besides being an awesome place for riverside dinning for breakfast and lunch, NGS offers an assortment of local and American made gifts from unique pantry items, clothing, jewelry, home décor, art to Napa embossed gift items.
Photo courtesy of Tarla Mediterranean Grill
BEST
Yountville PPoncha’s 707-944-2125 6764 Washington Street, Yountville If you want the real deal when it comes to dive bars, drive to the small community of Yountville. Among the celebrated dining establishments is a run-down bar with bartenders with attitudes, cheap drinks, pool tables and smoking is allowed. Owner Rose and family will only take cash. Leave the credit card at home.
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NVL winery spotlight
HORSING AROUND AT
SHADYBROOK ESTATE BY FRAN MILLER
W
hich came first? The horses or the vines? At Shadybrook Estate, where a dozen gentle steeds roam the Coombsville AVA property, it’s a toss-up. Once a working ranch, pasture land has long given way to vines, and this hidden winery gem now produces, at the helm of lauded winemaker Rudy Zuidema, Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and a signature Bordeaux blend. But the horses continue to play a major role in the small estate winery’s beguiling hospitality offerings. Conveniently located just a 10 minute Uber or Lyft ride from downtown Napa, Shadybrook Estate - and the entire Coombsville AVA - have long flown under the wine country radar. Until now. Downtown Napa’s renaissance has spilled over to this conveniently located pastoral playground with an ‘old horse country’ vibe, where the horses are not just for show. The only winery in Napa Valley to offer vineyard horseback rides, Shadybook Estate is perfectly poised for these unique tours that highlight the original rancher perspective. The 30 and 50 minute ‘Ultimate Ranch Experience’ horseback rides feature breathtaking vistas of Coombsville’s surrounding hillsides and the winery’s historic Rapp Ranch Estate, purchased just three years ago by Shadybrook proprietors David and Alice Alkosser who take great care in maintaining the historic integrity of their bucolic acreage, which at one time included a bevy of quarter horses. 42
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In the interest of authentic revitalization of the property, the duo purchased their 12 good-natured older horses who are housed in the western barn where guests saddle-up. Serving as the winery’s unofficial good-will ambassadors, the horses are perhaps the estate’s best tour guides, providing serene property strolls that are followed by a Perfect Pairing tasting (a standard tasting option for the horseaverse) on Shadybrook’s patio garden lounge overlooking the hills and beautiful Rapp Ranch Vineyards. The experience includes four wine pours from the Shadybrook Estate and Rapp Ranch labels, served with a bountiful assortment of cheeses, charcuterie, spreads, fruits and nuts. The Shadybrook Estate and Rapp Ranch award-winning wines are sold mostly direct to consumer, and their membership list is quickly growing. One taste, and it’s easy to see why. “Everything we do at Shadybrook – from start to finish – includes passion and detail,” said Kim Bothwell, director of hospitality and marketing. “The Alkossers and our winemaker Rudy Zuidema take great pride not only in the wines we make, but in caring for this incredible property.” A property best experienced on horseback. SHADYBROOK ESTATE By appointment only
707-255-5661; Info@shaydbrookestate.com; www.shadybrookestate.com
C'est La Paire V Marketplace Yountville 6525 Washington St. 707-947-7015
Robert A Lockhart
IRT-4395D-A
Financial Advisor
I-ELLE V Marketplace Yountville 6525 Washington St. 707-944-2282
Simplicity By I-ELLE 492 First St. East Sonoma 707-938-5422
www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
5 Financial Plaza Suite 227 Napa, CA 94558 707-251-5839
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NVL winery spotlight
The Magic of Wine
TRUJILLO WINES BY FRAN MILLER
Photo by Neena Heitz
Photo courtesy of Cellar Angels and Simz Productions
M
ichael Trujillo has long been associated with several of Napa Valley’s notable wineries Karl Lawrence Cellars, KaDieM Cellars, Herb Lamb Vineyards, and Madrigal. As the director of winemaking at Sequoia Grove, and consultant at Materra/Cunat Family Vineyards where he helped design of both state of the art winemaking facilities, Trujillo tends to skirt the spotlight, letting his wines speak for themselves. But with the emergence of his own label, Trujillo Wines, the Napa resident is finding it harder to duck the accolades. A Colorado native, Trujillo first visited the Napa Valley during a college road trip in 1982, and never left. Formerly a student of architectural engineering, he became a student of winemaking. His teacher? The great André Tchelistcheff, who served as a consulting winemaker at Sequoia Grove where Trujillo first landed. “Andre had a way of allowing you see the wine in a living sense,” said Trujillo. “He was amazing. He refused to become carried away with trends
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and never chased a certain style. He instilled in me the style of wine that I make today.” Long an astute purchaser of premium grapes (he was an early adapter of Beckstoffer To Kalon and Dr. Crane Vineyard fruit during his time as Owner Partner and Winemaker for Karl Lawrence where he made what became known as ‘the cult wine without the cult price’) Trujillo and his eponymous label focus on Cabernet Sauvignon blends made with grapes from the diverse terroirs of his favorite vineyards: Rutherford’s Gary Morisoli Vineyards, St. Helena’s Healy Vineyards, Herb Lamb Vineyards, and Henry Brothers Ranch on Howell Mountain. “This wine is an accumulation and blend of the grapes I love,” said Trujillo. “I strive to give my wines a true varietal expression with perfect balance while expressing attributes that reflect vintage and sense of place.” His first Trujillo vintage was 2011 with 450 cases; growth has been steady since. Whenever he has what he believes to be an exceptional vintage he also creates a vineyard designate reserve – one, two,
and three barrel lots that reflect the purest expression of vineyard and AVA pedigree. Trujillo also makes a second companion label utilizing what he calls the ‘cuttings’ left over from his Trujillo blend. Named Madelyn after his daughter, the reasonably priced and approachable wine includes a bit more of Malbec and Merlot. “Madelyn wines are actually my way of keeping Trujillo Cabernet pure and consistent,” said Trujillo. “It provides me an avenue so that I don’t have to force everything into one blend.” “This creation of high-end gems, middle, and lower tiered wines is fun,” says Trujillo. “I have a good time with my wines, and after 35 years in the business, it’s all coming together for me with Trujillo Wines – experience, relationships, consistency of quality. Wine is magical. I believe in wine and all it brings to life.” TRUJILLO WINES
www.trujillowines.com
Start Living Your Napa Valley Life
Beyond Napa Valley’s picturesque landscapes and award-winning wines, you will find a warm sense of community. People come from all over the globe to get off the treadmill of life and live in the moment. If you want to be part of this extraordinary community, Jennifer Klingbeil and her team at Golden Gate Sotheby’s International Realty will help you start enjoying your Napa Life today.
Jennifer Klingbeil | Real Estate Agent J.Klingbeil@ggsir.com | m 707.492.0435 NapaLifeProperties.com | Lic.# 02067543
Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. BEST OF 2019
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NVL wine spotlight
CONTINUITY OF QUALITY:
HERB LAMB VINEYARDS BY FRAN MILLER
H
erb and Jennifer Lamb never intended to be winemakers. When they purchased their tiny 7.5-acre Napa property in 1987, their goal was simply to farm and sell the 5 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon they had planted. And for ten years, that they did exceedingly well, providing their sought-after grapes to vintner Ann Colgin, whose Herb Lamb Vineyard bottlings sell for up to $400 per bottle at auction. It was 1997 when Herb and Jennifer decided to capture their vineyard magic in a premium Cabernet Sauvignon under their own label, Herb Lamb Vineyards – the grapes of which were and are currently sourced 46
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from what Jennifer calls the vineyard’s, ‘sweet spot’ – 13 northeast facing rows that gather sunlight a bit longer than other vineyard blocks, resulting in more fully ripened grapes with great consistency. Only 300 cases of HL Cabernet Sauvignon are produced each vintage. The winemaker? Michael Trujillo, who once sourced grapes from the Herb Lamb Vineyard for his own Karl Lawrence label. “We really did just want to be farmers when we first purchased this land,” said Jennifer, who, after Herb’s death in 2014, continues to maintain the property, the label, and the iconic mystique of her prime terroir, located in the foothills of
Howell Mountain at 800 feet elevation. She calls the area ‘no man’s land’ as its boundaries are not defined by a particular AVA. “Herb and I were just lucky enough to own a piece of land in this beautiful valley, and then, recognizing how bountiful the viticultural aspects were, we became vintners. And then it got into our blood – the joy of working the vineyards, working with wineries, and sharing our wines with the public. The pride of ownership in something personally created from the ground up is tremendous.” The high-caliber continuity of the Herb Lamb Vineyard and the quality of its fruit is unquestioned, as evidenced by celebrated vintner Thomas Rivers Brown’s current patronage; he sources Herb Lamb Vineyard grapes for his Rivers Marie wines. But despite her desire to share the vineyard wealth, the majority of Jennifer’s grapes are now reserved for her HL label and companion label Two Old Dogs, the small quantities of which are sold primarily to fans who comprise the winery’s mailing list of 1000. Jennifer spends a fair amount of time traveling the country and sharing the HL name via private events. A St. Helena tasting room is open by appointment only, where, if timed right, lucky guests might enjoy HL library tastings. Jennifer recently delved into her stash. “I’ve got tiny amounts of wines dating to 2008. These bits and pieces are wonderful historical indicators of our vineyard’s capabilities. It’s more than I could ever drink,” she said with a laugh. “So, I’ve decided to share it.” HERB LAMB VINEYARDS
www.herblambvineyards.com
C L E A R WAT E R S PA S D 1 S PA S WOODEN TUBS
Over 15 years of experience 707-781-9440 • SALES@CCHTS.COM CALIFORNIACUSTOMHOTTUBS.COM
707.258.2337 • 902 Main St • DOWNTOWNJOES.COM
Hoppy Hour
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • LATE-NIGHT
AFTER THE GAME, LET’S GO TO JOES!
MONDAY - FRIDAY WE ARE ALWAYS OPEN! BREAKFAST-LUNCH-HOPPY HOUR DINNER AND LATE NIGHT
GABRIEL-GLAS IS “ONE FOR ALL” A “universal” wine glass painstakingly crafted to fully express the wine it delivers. y Lead-free crystal y Seamless & durable
River View Dining • Pet Friendly Patio Sports Bar • Tap Room • Local Wines • Great Food Onsite Brewery • Dancing • Live Music • Full Bar
y Beautifully balanced
902 Main Street, Napa
888.220.3464 ext. 2 • info@gabriel-glasinternational.com www.gabriel-glasinternational.com
707.258.2337
www.downtownjoes.com
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NVL wine spotlight
Wine With a Touch of Family at
SCIANDRI FAMILY VINEYARDS BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
W
hen Rebecca Sciandri’s parents Ron and Roberta began thinking about retiring, there was only one place they had in mind – Napa Valley – so in 1992, they moved to Coombsville – and years later, after thoughtful searching, Sciandri Family Vineyards was born. “They had fallen in love with the beauty and the sense of place,” said Rebecca, the only full-time employee at her family’s vineyard. “They looked for over five years, all over the valley, until they came upon the 20 acre parcel in Coombsville. The land, the lake, open space of skyline and the opportunity to enjoy the plethora of wildlife, made them feel at home and it reminded them of the Tuscan hills of Italy. Rebecca’s brothers Ron Jr. and Ryan, along with her now teenage sons, all help run the family business – which has made Sciandri Family Vineyards a third generation affair. Once Ron and Roberta moved to Coombsville, they decided to plant five acres of Cabernet Sauvignon in 1999; with the first several years spent growing and selling their fruit to other winemakers for their productions. It wasn’t until their 2006 harvest that they launched their own brand.
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Their wines are available for purchase online or at prearranged tastings at their winemaking facility, and the family produces approximately 500 to 800 cases annually. Rebecca says that her father Ron always tells others, “we are so small, that Mondavi spills more during filtration than we make!” The family, through a labor of love and dedication, has grown their portfolio from their first vintage, a 2006 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon, to offer four additional wines: Coombsville Cuvee, a Rose, a Sauvignon Blanc, and a special four-barrel production of a wine called Nello. “It is named in honor of my grandfather, whose strong commitment to family and his love for growing and cultivating food and friendship left its mark upon everyone who knew him,” said Rebecca. “Our customers love that we offer wines that are full-bodied, layered and complex with flavor, but I think their favorite part is the soft, supple tannins noted as – ‘old world style’ that is indicative of the Coombsville AVA.” Steeped in a rich foundation that they are only stewards of the land and that if they take care of Mother Nature, she will in turn, take care of them, Rebecca said they
are farmers at heart and their business philosophy is based not on the bottom line, but on family first. “This business is meant to be an extension of our family, showcasing a very healthy respect for Mother Nature and tradition,” she said. “Everything we do is based on our old-world values – importance of family, respect for the land and pride in our products. The other driving value for us is Quality, Quality, Quality! We only want to share with our customers a wine that we are proud to carry our family name and put on our family table.” Every vintage they offer is a true vintage variation, where they let their vines tell their story, therefore each vintage has it’s own story to tell. Rebecca said, “All of our wines are handcrafted using sustainable practices, including 100-percent hand-farmed. Our winemaking philosophy is ‘Let the fruit show the way.’”
SCIANDRI FAMILY VINEYARDS
www.sciandrivineyards.com
BRICK & MANTEL HOME | STAGING | FURNITURE | DESIGN
742 CALIFORNIA BLVD. NAPA WWW.BRICKANDMANTEL.COM WINTER 2018
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PART
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DISCOVER COOMBSVILLE, AVA  BY KARI RUEL
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A once sleepy, understated grape growing region of the Napa Valley has long been the secret ingredient for many award-winning and 90-plus point wines. Acclaimed vintners like Robert Mondavi, Joseph Phelps, Louie Martini, Dario Sattui and Paul Hobbs, to name a few, sourced their grapes from the rocky soils that abut the shadows of Mt. George in the Valley’s southeast side. Italics Winegrowers
P
rior to 2011, the grapes sourced under the Napa Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA) on these labels didn’t truly give credit to this unique area of wine country. And it wasn’t until 2011 that the Coombsville AVA was designated as the newest Napa Valley Sub Appellation. “Becoming an AVA gave us more credibility and the serious recognition that this area deserves,” said Elan Fayard, Proprietor of Azur Wines. “We are no longer a blending source, but a specific designated area.” This 11,000-acre AVA is a hidden gem even to most locals. The mostly family-owned wineries and vineyards there pay homage to what the rest of the Napa Valley used to be slow, deliberate, and little to no traffic. One can spend three days here and only travel three to four miles. No one winery is alike. Its location often is missed by passersby on Highway 29 or Silverado Trail. It is only five minutes from the resurgent, historical, Downtown Napa that features epicurean delights, shopping, musical venues, and the majestic Napa River. A bird’s eye view from 20,000 feet above looks like Coombsville is shaped like a horse shoe. Millions of years and continuous erosion have left the land rich in volcanic ash and rock. The gravelly loams and volcanic soils drain easily and the ash sub-soils hold water which the vines can access as the dry growing season progresses. The caves at Caldwell Vineyards reflect the different layers of activity over the years. David Howell, geologist and co-writer of the book The Winemaker’s Dance, explained that the Coombsville AVA is the remnant of a volcano that collapsed inward
after a large eruption, forming a circular depression. This depression is cradled by a crescent-shaped section of the foothills of the Vaca Range, topped by Mt. George and Atlas Peak, and flanked by the town of Napa and the Napa River. “From the perspective of our property’s history, Henry Hagen could have established a property anywhere in the Napa Valley when he arrived in 1876,” said Christian Gastón Palmaz of Palmaz Vineyards. “Letters he wrote referred fondly to the cooler climate and elevation diversity of the Mt George property. Mostly though he was attracted to the abundant water and springs flowing down from the mountain. He founded Cedar Knoll vineyards and won one of the first accolades ever given to a Napa grower by the French, a silver medal at the Paris tasting in 1888 for his Brandy. It was quite the accomplishment for the town of Napa at the time. Coombsville has played host to many early settlers of Napa’s wine history.” Another strong characteristic of this new AVA is the numerous micro-climates. “Coombsville is a large AVA and has a large variety of microclimates,” continues Palmaz. “Being only miles from the North Bay waters, Coombsville is often described as a cooler climate. Even on the hottest nights of a Napa summer, Coombsville enjoys critical vine resting cool nights as bay breezes roll in. Since our elevation spans nearly 2000-feet, we have areas that sit above the fog such as the mountain vineyards of Palmaz Vineyards atop Mt George. This creates excellent complexity, elegance, and diversity of the area’s wines.”
“ Coombsville is a magical area,” said Vintner John Caldwell, whose 60acre vineyard was the first to be established in the region since the 1960’s. “It’s the only AVA that has diverse geography circling around an old ancient caldera. There is no other place as unique in the world.” Palmaz Winery
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“We have perfect weather conditions – fog burns off later in the morning,” said Bob Arns of Tournesol. “We get a longer hang time in the season, but it’s not a cool climate. We get high temperatures too with the numerous microclimates within this AVA.” “Coombsville is a sweet spot for Cabernet grapes,” agreed Paul Maroon of Maroon Wines. “It is a little cooler in the southern end of the valley, and we benefit from this by being able to ripen the grapes slowly and evenly.” But according to Caldwell, the cooler temperatures were misleading for years and it was thought that only Chardonnay and Pinot Noir could grow in this diverse region. “I bought my property for a real estate investment and thought I was going to subdivide it, but the county changed the ordinance and I couldn’t do that so I decided to plant grapes on the property,” said Caldwell. “I was told only Chardonnay would grow. I tracked the temperatures for two years and realized our climate was warmer than the Bordeaux Region of France. So, I planted Cabernet Sauvignon and then all five of the Bordeaux varietals: Cab Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Robert Parker gave the wines high scores, so there you go.” Talking to a group of representatives from the AVA, they all agree that one can’t go to one winery in Coombsville and get an understanding of what the AVA is like. The 38 vintners and growers encourage people to explore the AVA, as it’s fundamentally
Shadybrook Winery
different than other areas, provides spectacular Valley views, and each vintner has a unique story. The diversity in this small area is incredible. “One brand is not a stand-alone - A rising tide raises all boats,” said Taylor Martin of Italics Winesgrowers. “Temperatures vary throughout the region. On our property alone, there is a 250-foot drop in elevations, which results in a 10-degree temperature difference.” “Visitors who come to Coombsville get a different experience then the ‘main strips’ of Napa,” said Palmaz. “Often times it’s more intimate and more one-on-one with the customers. Again, it’s similar to how Napa used to be in the early 80’s. I think some initially thought of Coombsville as a bunch of ‘backyard’ growers. Now with enough award-winning producers, the region is really turning heads. I believe palate fatigued collectors are enjoying a return to a more balanced style of winemaking where elegance is celebrated. Coombsville is at home in that style.” Coombsville has a real homey feel to it. Most of the producers live on the properties, and tend to raise their families here, and they remain fully dedicated to making the finest wines they can. The wineries range in size large to small, but the spirit behind these projects is the same. “In Coombsville, guests get to meet the families and growers directly; visitors become family,” said Bulmaro Montes of Marita’s Vineyard. “They learn how we cultivate our vineyards and techniques used
to make cult wine. We are winegrowers with passion for the land. As small growers, we not only take well care of our vineyards, but also our environment. This results in our producing competitive wines in the Napa Valley and within the marketplace.” “Coombsville is approachable, downto-earth, and simply gorgeous,” beamed Fayard. “You feel like you're in the hills of Tuscany with a local flair. It's one of the most beautiful corners of the valley.” Moving forward, the members of the Coombsville AVA want to grow as a collective unit and keep that rural, rustic feel as they continue to define the terroir and increase quality at each individual winery according to Fayard. “As our success and popularity grow, Coombsville will be tasked with ensuring that our visitation is respectful of our neighborhoods,” said Palmaz. “Fortunately, the majority of our winery operators live in these neighborhoods and also care about protecting them.” As Napa Valley patrons return over the years, they tend to seek alternative experiences. They love to be introduced to new brands and learn new stories. Coombsville is full of unique stories that beg to be discovered. To see all the wineries and vineyards in the Coombsville AVA, visit the website, www.coombsvillenapa.org, and click on individual logos to hear more stories and plan your next visit. Not all wineries are open to the public and those that are, are by appointment only.
Mark Your Calendar April 13, 2019 is the Discover Coombsville Grand Tasting Event at the Napa Valley Country Club from 2-6PM. About 15 CVG members (owner/vintner/grower/ winemaker) will be present to pour Coombsville wines. Follow the Coombsville Vintners and Growers on Instagram @coombsvilleava and check www.coombsvillenapa.org for updated event details and information.
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FAYARD WINES BLAZING A NEW TRAIL BY LAURA LARSON
The past twelve months mark a significant milestone in the career of innovative entrepreneur and winemaker Julien Fayard. Just before the 2018 harvest, he relocated all of the winemaking operations for his clients to a new location in South Napa–the Fayard Winemaking facility.
Julien Fayard
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fter a decade of managing and providing hands-on winemaking consulting services for premier wine brands all over the Valley, it was time for Julien to have a space of his own. The diversity of projects and the specific needs of each client had been perfectly tailored to custom crush, but with custom crush comes the constant negotiation for shared time and logistics. He developed a plan for the Fayard Winemaking facility that would solve this and allow him to provide a better quality service with greater attention to detail and quality for his clients. Located off of N. Kelly Road in South Napa, the Fayard Winemaking facility offers all the state-of-theart winemaking equipment one would expect to find in a high-end winery, yet it’s tucked into an urban business park. Aside from the bells and whistles, this production-driven facility allows Julien to have an inhouse team dedicated to his winemaking, and now, he’s welcoming guests to an intimate tasting room on property--The Green Room--where his clients can have a dedicated space to host their guests. At the Green Room, guests are invited to hang out, sample wines and see what happens behind the scenes during various stages of winemaking. Just as the name suggests, the bar and cozy seating area are located off the “main stage” of the production area and decked out in luxurious green décor thanks to the detailed eye of Julien’s wife, Elan Fayard, who has her own consulting business–Elan Fayard Consulting–for tasting room design, marketing and hospitality. The Green Room boasts a floor to ceiling window wall which offers a full view into the crush pad. The “backstage” experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to taste the premier wines of Julien including their brand Azur and his winery clients, meet the winemakers and proprietors and have a front-row seat to see how wine is made. The urban wine community vibe creates a special thrill
The Green Room Photo by Emma Morris
Fayard Consulting Client Labels Photo by Emma Morris
for anyone seeking a more knowledgedriven wine tasting experience. Last spring moved another needle in Fayard’s winemaking legacy as he and Elan celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the launch of Azur, their first label and award-winning premier Rose’. While Rose’ has fast become one of this decade’s most popular wines, in 2006, when the Fayards moved from Provence to Napa Valley, Rose’ wines in the U.S. were not as easy to find. Julien longed for the pure, Provençal style Rose’ wines his family produced at their winery, Crus Classé Chateau Sainte Marguerite, as he was growing up. The Côtes de Provence style incorporates grapes grown specifically to make quality Rose’, which at the time, was not common practice for U.S. produced Rose’ wines. He soon realized he could not acquire this type of Rose’ locally, so he decided to make it himself. Starting as a garage operation, in 2007, Julien harvested and produced their first vintage of Rose’ under the label Azur Wines. Although he and Elan loved it, they faced an uphill battle getting it launched. “We had a hard time getting people to even taste it,” Elan jokes looking back. But once a buyer tried it, the desire to have it on their wine list or retail shelf was immediate. “Our first introduction to Julien and Elan Fayard started over a decade ago when a glass of their Azur Rosé transported us to Provence,” recalls ACME Fine Wines owner Karen Williams. Over time Azur Rose’ has set the benchmark for premier Rose’ made in America and Julien’s determination to create it cleared the path for many vintners in the U.S. to follow in his footsteps. To celebrate Azur’s inaugural decade as the first dedicated Rose’ produced in America, the Fayards have made a deliberate investment in repackaging the wine to represent its leadership position within the “quality Rose’ revolution” in America. This past holiday season, the 2017 vintage was
bottled with a patented new design intended to stand out in the fast-growing sea of pink. The bottle sizing has the circumference of a standard 750ml, but it has the height of a magnum, and the label is minimal with the screen-printed dove carrying a cluster of grapes to symbolize the journey of bringing the Provençal knowledge of winemaking from France to California. After twelve short years in the U.S., and more than a decade of winemaking in France, including lead roles at both Chateau Lafitte Rothschild and Smith Haut Lafitte, Julien has made a name for himself at the young age of 41. “Julien has been one of the brightest winemakers that I have been involved with,” said Philippe Melka. “His understanding of all the facets of the business make him one of the elite winemakers of his generation." Julien started working with Melka shortly after moving to the U.S. and he grew to become his Director of Winemaking. Several years later Cal Nicholson, of Nicholson Jones wines, discovered Julien and was the first person to hire Julien on his own to save his 2005 vintage. Julien did save the wine, according to Cal, and he’s been making his wines ever since. But that was just the beginning of Cal and Julien’s relationship. In 2015, Julien, Elan, Cal, his wife Pam and their friends Dave and Laura Nestor, opened Covert Estate in Coombsville. The luxurious cave carved into the hillside among twelve-acres of ancient oaks and estate vines positioned Julien at the helm of winemaking for one of the most elite brands coming out of Napa’s newest AVA. In addition to Azur, Covert Estate and Nicholson Jones labels, the Fayards also have the Empreinte label, and Julien’s client list has grown to include at least a dozen other high-end brands such as the highly-rated Le Pich and Purlieu, Brion, Scalon, Taplin Cellars, Matthew Wallace, Mithra, Cultivar and Caspar Estate to
name a few. According to Stephen Taplin of Taplin Cellars, “When we chose a winemaker, we were seeking someone who was eager to work with us and committed to expressing the character of lands owned by our family for more than 150 years. We got both in Julien and we’ve only grown more excited to have him on our team as time has passed. His intent is to make the process from grapes to wine be as natural as possible, therefore letting the vineyard expression thrive. Through this approach he has been delivering wines with increasing complexity and nuance." Over the years Julien has refined his winemaking philosophy to create wines with their own unique identities that express pure, terroir-driven characteristics. The wines he’s making are reminiscent of Napa Valley’s heyday in the ’70s and ’80s, and with each project he allows the vineyards to set the strategy representative of the unique characteristics of the vintage and terroir.
The Fayards have earned a reputation as modern-day trailblazers within the premier wine world of Napa Valley. Although they do not feel they have hit their stride yet, with the potential partnerships that will evolve from the launch of the Fayard Winemaking facility and the Green Room, it’s safe to expect that more exciting things will come. FOR MORE INFORMATION:
www.fayardwines.com; www.azurwines.com; www.covertestate.com; www.elanfayard.com 707-812-4203 BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
Date Night with Phifer Pavitt Wines:
A Magical Experience BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
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nscribed on every one of Phifer Pavitt’s wooden wine boxes is the phrase, ‘Wine is an expression of our approach to life; when you make time for what you love, magical things can happen.’ And magical things do happen every time a bottle of their wine is uncorked. It all began on one of Suzanne Phifer and Shane Pavitt’s magical date nights, when Suzanne, a southern country girl from Ringgold, Georgia and Shane, a city boy from Manhattan Beach, California, met. She grew up in the country and Shane grew up in a small beach town, yet their conservative backgrounds were solidly steeped in family, integrity, and kindness. With those foundation values at their core, the duo was destined for longevity – and now, so are their wines. Together, the two have made every important family and business decision during their special, once-a-week date nights. It was on one of those nights in 1999 that they made a life-altering decision to begin their wine brand and later, open Phifer 56
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Pavitt Winery in 2011. The blend of hard work, love, and talent has proven magical. The couple takes pride in everything about running their own winery. “I love watching people experience Phifer Pavitt wines when they walk into our Eco Barn for their first tasting experience with us,” said Suzanne. “It’s the sparkle in their eye that occurs when they realize that they have found a new Napa Valley gem.” Their unwavering attention to detail in their wines and their personal dedication to their clients is what sets them apart from other wineries. What they always hear from their clients is, ‘we love the wine and especially the story and the people behind it.’ “Wine brings people together,” said Suzanne. “I have been known to say more than once, that most of the world’s problems could be solved over a meal and a great bottle of wine.” The two strive to make the world a better place, starting with their family, their wines, and those involved in the wine production. ‘Surround yourself with clever
and talented people and amazing things can happen,’ is what Suzanne and Shane firmly believe, and the two continually surround themselves in generosity by giving back to others, specifically to the Boys & Girls Club of Calistoga and St. Helena, as well as the Calistoga Community Pool Project. “We really focus our philanthropic efforts on our community and on children,” said Suzanne. Suzanne divulged that another date night is just around the corner, when they will take a special trip to Kentucky. “We are headed to Bardstown, Kentucky to officially unveil our Phifer Pavitt Reserve Bourbon, which was finished in our wine barrels,” said Suzanne. “We started with an eight year Bourbon and have been aging it in Phifer Pavitt cabernet barrels since May 2017. It’s also been a great honor to work with a Hall of Fame, Master Distiller, Steve Nally, and to blend my Napa Valley life with my southern roots. It’s a very exciting project and we can’t wait to share it with our clients.” FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.phiferpavittwine.com
WINETR AIN.COM | 80 0.427.4124 | NAPA , CA BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
A SUMPTUOUS CORRELATION between
Wines, Food and Relationships  BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
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e graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, did his externship at The French Laundry in Yountville, where Chef Thomas Keller asked him to come back after graduation – which he did for a year and a half – now Wesley Steffens is owner of Correlation Wine Company in Napa where wine and cooking couldn’t be more connected.
“People often ask me if I miss cooking or how the two (winemaking and cooking) connect. I truly believe they are much closer than people might understand,” said Steffens, father of three with wife, Jess. “ There are so many similarities. In creating a beautiful meal, it is so important to know where your food comes from, to have relationships with the farmers, the food purveyors, to respect the products you are working with, and to honor them by not manipulating what you want them to be, but highlight what they are supposed to be.” “The same is true for wine,” he added. “A great bottle of wine is only as good as the grapes in which the wine was made from, and those grapes are only as good as they can be from the ‘TLC’ from the farmer and winemaker, and their relationship in working together to grow the very best fruit for that given vintage. So to me, the two are nearly identical.” There are also ‘correlations’ between his wines and his next-door neighbor’s wines – a business plan Steffens had designed about the
relationships that he and Jess built while living and working in the Napa Valley. “We crafted a blend that was roughly 50/50 from our Estate and from the Atchley Family vineyard, which we have been farming since 2007,” said Steffens. “We called this wine Vineyard 7 & 8 “Correlation,” and crafted it for three vintages, 2011 - 2013. It was in early 2014 when I started looking at how we could grow beyond our boarders, explore more of the Napa Valley – and beyond eventually – all while keeping Vineyard 7 & 8 focused on the wines we made solely from our family’s vineyard.” More than setting his wines apart from all the rest, Steffens believes his wines are merely part of all the remarkable stories out there, more of a complimentary taste than one of competition. “There are plenty of brands in Napa Valley and beyond that craft wines from fruit they farm around the valley and aim to tell their stories of these wines,” said Steffens. “Correlation Wine Company is simply my version of these stories, and a version that I continually aim to leverage back to my experiences and relationships in the Napa Valley.” Steffens features three wines in their Correlation Wine Company portfolio, a Cabernet Sauvignon blend, sourced from two vineyards on Spring Mountain and one in Rutherford, a Rosé, which is a saigneé style rosé, crafted from red grapes
and a Sauvignon Blanc from Atlas Peak. Choosing his favorite out of the three is one of Steffen’s most difficult things to do. “I was introduced to wine growing up, my father was and still is, a cab-guy, so naturally I drink a lot of Cabernet myself, but love our Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc, and enjoy plenty of those as well. It’s like asking me to choose which one of my kids I like best, ha!” said Steffens. He’s happy with what their clients have to say about their wines. “Our customers thus far seem to be very happy with the quality, often saying we are over-delivering on quality for the price point, that the wines are very approachable and enjoyable upon release, but have enough structure to age and show a different version of themselves down the road,” said Steffens. “This is exactly what we were hoping to achieve with this brand, so I could not be happier with the launch thus far.” Steffens said there are plans to create and add to their collection down the road, that a slow and quality growth is how he sees Correlation Wine Company continuing while always staying true to their mission. “We are rooted in relationships and driven by the commitment to make them stronger,” he said. FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.correlationwines.com
BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
Tom Rinaldi
Photos by Bob McClenahan
Eric Risch
PELLET ESTATE A Ghost Winery Reborn T
ucked away on the west side of St. Helena in the heart of Napa Valley, a historic ghost vineyard re-emerged in 2010, where Eric Risch and iconic winemaker Tom Rinaldi craft wines that are rare, authentically grown, and classically made. Pellet Estate’s rich history began in 1863 with Henry Pellet, one of the founding pioneers of Napa Valley winemaking. He first planted the site with a vision of producing wines that would be among the best in the world, thus establishing the second oldest commercially producing vineyard in Napa Valley. Pellet, Charles Krug, Dr. George Crane, and H.W. Crabb were the driving forces that put Napa Valley on the world wine stage in 60
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1875 with the introduction of major European grape varietals to California, eschewing wine made from the sweet Mission grape. Pellet Estate’s production is small, with only about 1,000 cases produced in total, as everything from vine to bottle is harvested and made by hand. Rinaldi’s 44 years of experience, which he began as the founding winemaker at Duckhorn, enables him to produce wines that showcase his masterful blend of traditional French techniques with ultra-high premium fruit. “I’ve made wine with fruit from all over Napa Valley, and the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Pellet Vineyard is some of the best I’ve ever worked with,” said Rinaldi.
“ Being able to make wines that are rich, elegantly balanced, complex, and full of expression is what we are about. We exist to make great wine.”
Pellet Estate’s flagship wine is their Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the Pellet Vineyard, with approximately 350 cases produced. Henry’s Reserve, which represents the best of the best from the historic site, has a production of less than 100 cases. Their wines are made to last for decades, yet are approachable on release. Pellet Estate’s award-winning Chardonnays are from the Sun Chase Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. The site was selected because of the cool marine influence that mimics the climate of the Côte-d'Or in Burgundy, France. Their Chardonnay and UnOaked Chardonnay are both styled specifically to reflect qualities of Puligny-Montrachet and Chablis respectively. They’ve taken old world methodologies and techniques and applied them to the best French clones of Chardonnay to create truly remarkable wines — non-traditional California Chardonnays by design. FOR MORE INFORMATION
707-363-3281 // www.pelletestate.com
NVL wineries
The Journey from
Doctor to Vintner
DECADES-LONG PASSION AND VISION AT THE HEART OF KRUPP BROTHERS WINERY
While studying to become a doctor at Stanford University, one of Jan Krupp’s favorite professors taught him not only how to save lives, but also how to make wine, an endeavor he found he loved as much – if not more – than practicing medicine. 62
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e nurtured this passion part-time for some 20 years, garnering awards for his home winemaking. In 1991, he planted a 41-acre vineyard in Napa while continuing to commute to the Bay Area for his internal medical practice. One day, he saw an ad for a sprawling expanse of land high in the Vaca Mountains overlooking Napa Valley. Riddled with rocks and boulders, with no road access and no known water source, more experienced vintners saw overwhelming obstacles and passed on the property, but Jan saw potential. “I believed that with a lot of hard work, it had the makings of a great vineyard. The soils and high elevation were ideal for growing world-class fruit,” Jan said. “Though there were many naysayers and challenges, the support of my brother Bart was enough for me to keep going.” It took a water witch, who found an underground river, the removal of one million tons of rock and 135 legal documents that would allow the brothers to build a road to the property to create what is now the iconic Stagecoach Vineyard, the largest contiguous vineyard in Napa Valley. “Later, I would learn that when we first started to develop the vineyard, I was known around the valley as the ‘crazy doctor,’” Jan said. “The consensus was that it would fail.” After selling the grapes for several years and seeing the fruits of their labor crafted into remarkable wines by others, Jan and Bart founded their own wine brand in 1999, creating an exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon. Krupp Brothers remains best known for its Cabernets, particularly The M5, sourced from its namesake block, the most coveted at Stagecoach. It is a Cabernet that, like the best of the Bordeaux, can be aged for 30 years or more. However, in the two decades since founding the winery, the Krupp Brothers portfolio of wines has expanded and the winery has become renowned for other
traditional Napa varietals, such as Chardonnay, as well as unconventional blends. Krupp Brothers Chardonnay is one of the few in Napa Valley made from mountain fruit, which gives it an intensity and vibrancy that is balanced by a delightful creaminess. It is a hit even among those who don’t drink white wine. “We hear all the time from people who don’t like white wine that they were blown away by our Chardonnay,” said Sarah Krupp, Jan’s daughter who is Krupp Brothers communications and wine club director. “We have club members who request to receive red wines, but eventually we’ll convince them to taste the Chardonnay and they change their minds.” Krupp Brothers The Doctor, an homage to Dr. Krupp, is one of the winery’s flagship wines. As a Tempranillo-based blend, it is unique, particularly for the Napa Valley. Black Bart Syrah – named for the gentleman bandit who robbed Wells Fargo stagecoaches that traversed what would become Stagecoach Vineyard and founder Bart Krupp – has something of a cult following, selling out upon release. What all of the Krupp Brothers wines, from the rosé to the Cabernet, have in common is they are made intentionally to reflect the place they are grown. “Our wines represent the individuality of the people and the land they come from,” said Nikki Lincoln, Krupp Brothers Director of California Sales and Hospitality. “They are complex, layered wines. And, if you listen, each layer speaks, telling the story of the place where these grapes came from – the high elevation, red, rocky soil – and the talent, intuition, and attention-to-detail that went into every bottle.” Nearly two decades after they founded the wine brand, the brothers sold Stagecoach Vineyard, allowing them to fulfill a dream of owning a beautiful winery facility of their
very own where they could make wine to their exacting standards and provide guests with an experience designed to be as memorable as the wines. In 2017, they purchased a gorgeous, intimate Tuscan-style winery in the Silverado Bench. They have retained the rights to select Stagecoach Vineyard blocks so they can continue to create wines with the famous mountain fruit. Today, Krupp Brothers wines can be enjoyed both at Krupp Brothers Winery and Estate where visitors can tour the winery and vineyard by appointment and Krupp Brothers Tasting Room conveniently located in Downtown Napa near Oxbow Public Market where drop-ins – for tastings paired with bites or to enjoy wines by the glass or bottle – are welcome. Both the winery and the tasting room have been designed to be elegant, but also comfortable spaces for guests to relax and enjoy themselves. “We want our winery and our tasting room to be fitting of our luxury brand,” said Janice Krupp, Krupp Brothers co-proprietor and Jan’s wife. “But we also want our guests to feel like they are enjoying good wine with family and friends when they are visiting.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Krupp Brothers Winery and Estate 1094 Hardman Avenue, Napa // 707-225-2276 Krupp Brothers Downtown Tasting Room 714 1st Street, Napa // 707-266-1233 www.kruppbrothers.com BEST OF 2019
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Checkers Restaurant
NVL wineries
PerUs
An Allocation worth waiting for...
P
erUs was founded by Anmol Bhandari and a group of like-minded shareholders that come from all walks of life. Their ethos behind the brand was deeply rooted in the pursuit of “perpetuity,” a concept of creating a level of excellence that will last for generations while building a network of like-minded people pursuing the same goal. The vision was genius. “We wanted to create a wine together that would curate memories,” said Katya Kurtbek, Director of Sales and Marketing, “and bring people together to facilitate memorable experiences.” That goal was accomplished in 2010, which led to the release of the first vintage in 2013. The story is captured on the back of each bottle, which includes the 2015 and 2016 Alessio, a Bordeaux style blend; the 2016 Janeen, a proprietary red; and the 2016 Armaan, set to be released in early 2019. Not surprisingly, the other vintages have sold out. “Our clients say our wines are powerful, decadent, bold and seamless,” said Kurtbek. “They also say ‘can I have another glass?’” Head winemaker, Russell Bevan, is given total independence over production.
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Bevan and Mother Nature incorporate old and new world techniques. Utilizing several vineyard locations, which include Tench Vineyard (whose neighbor happens to be Screaming Eagle), Sugarloaf Mountain and Edcora, PerUs uses their own style of farming and winemaking techniques to stand out. “Our wines don’t have the harsh textures. We have high tannins, but the tannins are refined, resulting in more ageability with supple textures,” said Bevan. “Density and weight are there, but the harsh parts are not.” Robert Parker of The Wine Advocate is clearly a fan of Russell’s. “Russell Bevan is one of the more outspoken producers of Napa Valley, and so are his wine,” says Parker. “These sumptuous, beautifully textured reds are full of personality. Made to be accessible right upon release, the Bevan wines are rich, intense and hugely delicious.” PerUs releases the second vintage of the Armaan in February. Named after Anmol’s son, it helps carry their mission of perpetuity. Production of the 2015 Armaan was only 50 cases and received 96 points from Jebb Dunnuck and 99 points from California Wine Advisors.
The 2016 Armaan will see production of 200 cases and is a Cabernet Sauvignonfocused powerhouse that expresses verve and grace with the purity of fruit from which it was born. PerUs also gives back to the community, donating a portion of production to charities of their partners, affiliates and shareholders. Tastings are by appointment only. “We like to make each experience quite intimate and authentic,” said Kurtbek. “The wine production is our ultimate focus, so availability is super limited.” The group ownership and collaboration of PerUs translates well to the success of its wines. The wines are distributed by allocation only and placed in a very select few retailers.
There may be a waitlist, but the good things in life are surely worth waiting for… FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.peruswine.com // info@peruswine.com
North Bay Home For Talk & Sports streaming at KVON.com
Barry Martin
Morning Edition M-F 6a-9a
Ira C. Smith
Sports Reports M-F 6a-7p
Play-By-Play Coverage Of Local High School Sports & National Sports Teams BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
William Harrison Vineyards A GENERATIONAL GEM BY LAURA LARSON
William Harrison Winery on Silverado Trail
Antonio Perelli-M
inetti -1975
William Harrison Vineyards & Winery is one of California’s most enterprising stories of legacy family winemakers, whose remarkable success was not just inherited, but fought for through decades of hard work and dedication. 66
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n 1902, Bill Harrison’s maternal grandfather, Antonio Perelli-Minetti, emigrated from Italy to California at the young age of twenty, to work as an intern for the Italian Swiss Colony at Asti. He had earned his winemaking degree from the prestigious Royal College of Viticulture and Oenology, but had to pay his dues from the cellar up. After only eight months in Asti, he learned that his American counterpart commanded a 40% higher wage, so he quit. Over the next few years, he worked for wineries in San Francisco, Livermore, Chicago, and Sonoma County before gaining the opportunity to strike out on his own. After the 1906 earthquake, 79-year-old Frank Schmidt sold Antonio his 700-acre vineyard and winery in Healdsburg for $50,000 with a 10-percent down payment, so that he could move back to Germany. Unable to afford
even that, Antonio immediately sold 200 head of cattle off the property, and cream of tartar from the wine casks to make up the difference. Over the next few years, he struggled through poorly grafted vine material and devastating frost damage and was ultimately forced to close the winery. The day his second son was born in 1910, Antonio left for Torreon, Mexico, and three years later had the largest vineyard operation (800 acres) in the republic. Despite occasional returns to Ukiah and the Central Valley, he was able to flourish
in Mexico until the revolution heated up, then he moved the family back to California. From 1917 until Prohibition, Antonio directed winemaking for Pagani Winery in Glen Ellen. His oldest son Mario grew up filling various roles in the winery, until leaving for Stanford to study law. In the late 1920’s, Antonio became a joint founder of Fruit Industries, Ltd, which made grape concentrate for home winemaking and shipped it nationwide during Prohibition. By the end of the decade, they had absorbed the California Wine Association in San Francisco, along with its six cooperative wineries, control of nearly 70% of the state’s vineyards, and all sales and marketing operations. Repeal was imminent. After the Depression, Antonio was finally able to build his own winery near the Southern Pacific railroad and Highway 99 in Delano, while maintaining his position with CWA. Bill Harrison was raised on that property, where he helped service tractors during his summer vacations. Gradually, A.Perelli-Minetti & Sons acquired enough shares in CWA to have exclusive production rights to over 200 brands of wine and brandies. Meanwhile, Antonio’s son Mario, a successful business attorney in Los Angeles, left his law career to accept the position of General Manager at CWA, where he remained for 25 years. By the time Bill Harrison reached high school, his father left Antonio’s winery business, and moved the family up to Sonoma County. Bill earned a Bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University, completed an MBA at UC Berkeley, and then spent two years as an Armor Officer in the 1st Infantry Division. After the Army, he went to work in sales and marketing for his uncle Mario at CWA. Shortly after Antonio passed away in 1976, the family decided to sell the winery, and dissolve their interest in the CWA. After nearly 20 years in the industry, Bill discovered a niche and set out to build a mobile bottling company. He knew that most small wineries could not afford their own equipment, and had to truck their wine offsite to be packaged. In so doing, they forfeited the “Estate Bottled” labeling designation, which required that all aspects of the wine’s creation take place on the winery property. By housing a bottling line in a tractor trailer, he could offer to package the wine where it had been grown and produced, thus preserving its status. It took significant perseverance, but ultimately, the 40th financier that Bill approached lent him the money. Since 1982, his innovative “Estate Bottling” Company has serviced well over 100 wineries in California and Texas.
Bill Harrison on his “Estate Bottling” truck
By the mid-80s, his uncle Mario had become a valuable contract customer at Rutherford Hill Winery, making three eponymous Napa Valley wines. With the early success of his bottling enterprise, Bill purchased nine-acre parcel in the northeast corner of Rutherford, and asked his uncle if he would lease a new small winery, should he build one there. Three years later, construction began on the new home of Mario Perelli-Minetti wines. Set back from the bustle of the Silverado Trail, the two-story Mission-style structure was built by hand from limestone quarried across the street and rough-hewn wooden beams. Mario agreed to lease the winery building, and sell Bill his business when he retired. However, Mario never relinquished, and until nearly his death at age 101 in 2010, he donned his coat and tie and continued to sell his wine throughout northern California. In the meantime, Bill started his own label in 1993, and took over the winery operation in 2000, making Mario his first custom crush client. William Harrison Vineyards & Winery is nestled against the eastern foothills of the Vaca Mountains, in soils comprised of mostly gravel, sand and volcanic ash. Replanted in 1991 and 1997, the tiny seven-acre vineyard grows all five of the Bordeaux red varieties. The yield is small, producing roughly 2200 cases of boutique wines annually, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and a Meritage-style blend. Winemaker Charles McKahn, who worked under consulting winemaker Phillip Titus at Chappellet for five years, shares the philosophy that minimal intervention allows the elegance of Rutherford fruit to shine through. And shine they do! Best known for their flagship “Rutherford Red”, a popular blend of all five varieties, their Cabernet Sauvignon and an award-winning 100-percent Cabernet Franc also rank among Napa Valley’s best values. The portfolio is rounded out with a crisp Chardonnay and lush Pinot Noir from Los
The Perelli-Minetti Family- Ukia
h, 1910
Carneros, both grown by the Sangiacomo Family, who have farmed wine grapes in the region for over 90 years. Unlike most wineries nearby, William Harrison’s tasting fees are only $25 for a sampling of five wines, and their list prices range from $38 - $85, truly undervalued in today’s Napa. Their hospitality is relaxed, unpretentious and uniquely personal. The inside of the visitor center feels like a hunting lodge, and contains pertinent historical artifacts, including family portraits and a collection of Perrelli-Minetti and CWA vintages going back generations. Antonio’s cherished piano and an accordion he brought back to Bill from Italy are proudly displayed, along with Bill’s personal mementos and prized hunting trophies. The Alaskan Brown Bear has become quite a celebrity on Instagram.
William Harrison Vineyards & Winery represents one of Napa Valley’s most tenacious family stories, rooted from generation to generation in a shared love for winemaking. Their beginnings were humble, and hard work and determination were prerequisites for success. Truly a Cinderella story, Bill’s stalwart lineage represents one of California’s most remarkable and endearing family legacies. His unassuming presence on Napa Valley’s busy Silverado Trail remains one of Napa Valleys’ discernable winery gems, hidden in plain sight. FOR MORE INFORMATION
1443 Silverado Trail S, St Helena, CA 707-963-8310 // www.whwines.com Retail Sales 7 days a week from 11AM-5PM BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
Never Say Never at Clark-Claudon Vineyards BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
Photos by Briana Marie Photography / www.brianamariephotography.com
T
hey said they would never make wine. They said they would never make white wine. They said they would never make a reserve wine. “We’ve done all three now, so we avoid the word ‘never!’” said Laurie Claudon, owner with husband Tom Clark and family of Clark-Claudon Vineyards in Napa. “My husband had been developing and managing vineyards all over the Napa Valley since we arrived in 1974,” added Laurie. “He first worked for Souverain Management Company and then founded Clark-Vineyard Management in 1978. Though we had the dream of so many, we never expected to have our own vineyard.” Everything changed in 1989 when their friend Tom Burgess of Burgess Cellars told them about a property that was privately for sale. “Though still out of reach, the seller’s flexibility, a signed fruit contract and some very creative financing, made the impossible, possible,” said Laurie. “We first leased 68
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and eventually purchased this very special, undeveloped piece of property.” She said developing the vineyard became a family affair. Their vision was to use all of Tom’s experience and a lot of family sweat equity to develop 70 acres of exceptional, cabernet fruit. “The goal was to sell the grapes to quality driven customers,” said Laurie. “As we fell in love with the wildness of the property and realized the exceptional quality of the fruit, the vision took a different turn. Three decisions were made. We would stop vineyard development after the initial 17 acres. We would leave the remaining 100 acres and its fur and feathered inhabitants in a natural state. And, we would begin to make wine under our own label.” The rest is sweet and tasty history. The family-run estate grown, artisan boutique vineyard produces 9,000 bottles a year, a Wild Iris Sauvignon Blanc, Clark-Claudon Vineyards Estate Cabernet and an Eternity
Reserve Estate Cabernet. Laurie is the general manager who takes care of everything that is not vineyard or property-related, while Tom and son Josh oversee all vineyard-related responsibilities. Since 2000 Josh has been the owner of Clark Vineyard Management Company and daughter Briana Marie Forgie is a professional photographer who provides stunning images and all design needs.
Their love of wines and producing them run deep. “ There are so many things to love!” said Laurie. “I love how each bottle of wine is a story. It holds the place and weather of that season, the work and songs of the crew, the birds flying overhead, the grandkids running through the vineyard, the input of each family member and the joy of working along side of Mother Nature. I love how wine has connected us to so many people, building enduring friendships along the way. Wine has also given us a tiny spot on that thread that goes back to the beginnings of civilization. I love opening a bottle with the pop of the cork, breathing in all of the aromas, knowing I have a treat to enjoy and the gift of sharing it with others.” Tom and Laurie hear from their customers how their wines ($52 to $200 per bottle with generous discounts for their club members) have beautiful fruit, complexity, integrated tannins and balance. “Our wines do not follow the ‘more is better’ oak, extraction and alcohol style,” said Laurie. “Rather, our customers see our wines as a pure expression of a very special place. Many recognize the love and pride that goes into every bottle.” FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.clarkclaudon.com
DTC Sales & Marketing Consulting Services
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707.927.3574
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PAX WINES
Settles in at the Barlow BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS BY LEIGH-ANN BEVERLEY//BONAFIDE PRODUCTIONS
It’s a treat when a boutique wine producer provides a venue in which to sample their limited production wines. It’s an indulgence when a reservation is not required. And when that winemaker is one of Northern California’s best known makers of Rhône varietals, the tasting room experience is a gift.
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roducing only 4,500 cases annually of his eponymous label, Pax Mahle is best known for elegant Syrahs made in the European style with Sonoma County grapes. And now, Mahle and his wife Pam provide an ideal venue in which to sample their Pax Wines - the newly opened Pax Wines tasting room in Sebastopol’s The Barlow. Each Pax wine, and its old world throwback vibe label, has its own distinctive personality. One particular label pays homage to Mahle’s idol, the great Syrah producer Raymond Trollat, an unpretentious, old school Frenchman who eschews chemicals and intervention. Called Sonoma Hillsides, this iconic Syrah has caused quite a stir in the wine world garnering 100 points from Antonio Galloni and reaching the top of many sommeliers lists of favorite Syrahs from California. 70
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Like Trollat, the Mahle’s maintain a holistic approach in creating their wines, each a tribute to classic varietals beloved the world over from the most traditional and timeless wineries in Europe. To grow grapes for these particular wines in California’s cool climate vineyards requires a bit more discipline and care. Mahle’s Gamay, Carignan, Chenin Blanc, and Syrah are sourced from highly vetted vineyards along the Sonoma Coast that he farms with a less-is-more approach, in balance with nature, allowing for full organic expression of flavor. Until recently, unless you were a Pax Wines list member, or happened to come upon a bottle while dining at a fine restaurant such as Napa’s Charter Oak or RH Yountville, or see it in a specialty wine boutique such as Napa's Cadet, it might prove difficult to get your hands on a bottle. But the Pax Wines tasting room provides egalitarian access to the stunningly delicious varietals.
Country-chic and casually elegant, the cozy yet airy space is equally ideal as a ‘regulars’ hang-out spot as it is a special date night destination. Guests can enjoy seasonal wine tasting flights of current releases as well as wines-by-the-glass. Purchase a bottle, or a growler-to-go. But for the full Pax effect, relax and stay awhile. A personable and knowledgeable staff create a welcoming atmosphere where music often fills the air – that of live performers on Friday evenings, or that of patrons’ vinyl selections. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for those seeking an in-depth, hands-on experience that includes a one-on-one tasting, a tour of the winery, and tasty salumi, cheese, and olive treats from local purveyors. FOR MORE INFORMATION
6780 McKinley Street #170 Sebastopol, CA // 707-331-1393 // www.paxwine.com
Knife Art Art in in Napa Napa Valley. Valley. Knife Knife Art in Napa "As beautiful as it isValley. useful." "As beautiful as York it is useful." - New Times "As beautiful as it is useful." - New York Times - New York Times
1380 Main Street, St. Helena, CA | NewWestKnifeWorks.com | 707.244.5188 1380 Main Street, St. Helena, CA | NewWestKnifeWorks.com | 707.244.5188 1380 Main Street, St. Helena, CA | NewWestKnifeWorks.com | 707.244.5188
NVL wineries
SALVESTRIN WINERY
Home to Fourth Generation of Family and Wines  BY CHARLEEN EARLEY | PHOTOS BY BRENT MILLER DESIGNS
When John and Emma Salvestrin immigrated to the United States from Northern Italy in the early 1900s, they saved their money and purchased property in St. Helena in 1932. The small, rural town reminded them of their home in Italy. Today, third and fourth generation Salvestrins now live on the bucolic property where they produce wines of quality, integrity, and sense-of-place – a place they’ve long called home.
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eing environmentally and socially responsible is vastly important to the Salvestrin family. “It’s important to us because we want to leave the land in better shape then when we received it,” said Rich Salvestrin, owner and grandson of John and Emma. “We also live on this land and have raised our children here, so we want to take care of this tremendous resource. This land has provided a beautiful setting for the Salvestrin family in the Napa Valley, the best way for us to give back for the gift of calling St. Helena home, is to take care of the soil as if it were another family member.” Rich and his wife Shannon started the winery together in 1994, the same year they got married. Shannon was raised just up the road in Calistoga, and the two have three daughters, Hannah, 21, Emma, 20 and Tessa, age 15. One of the Cabernets they produce is called ‘3D,’ which stands for ‘three daughters.’ Their family values run strong and as a child, Rich remembers his grandmother saying quite frequently, “No work; No eat!” Rich’s parents, Ed and Susanne Salvestrin, still live on property and were integral in the transition of the family property, and Ed still enjoys driving his vintage tractors at age 82. A boutique winery selling 4500 cases of Estate Grown Wines a year, bottles of which run $25 to $145, they produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah, Sangiovese, and a red blend entitled Retaggio. Growing grapes has always been a love of Rich’s ever since he was little. “I always knew that my career would be in viticulture,” said Rich. “My grandfather and father taught me so much about farming as I grew up. They planted a seed of love for land and working hard with your hands to produce something of quality and integrity.”
One of the oldest, continuously operated vineyards in the Napa Valley, originally planted in 1859 by Dr. George Belden Crane, it has been owneroperated by the Salvestrin family since 1932. Rich’s family believes in ‘doing everything to the best of your ability, or don’t do it at all.’ This shows in their ratings, with their most recent a 96+ on their 2015 “3D” from the Wine Advocate and a 94+ rating on their 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Dr.
Crane Vineyard – which also accounts for the compliments they receive from their customers. “The best compliment is customers who have told us that they feel connected to our vineyard and winery through our story and friendship and because of that, they share our wines with family and friends on their Thanksgiving tables,” said Rich. “It’s also rewarding when customers buy a vintage of our wine to mark the year their children were born and save it for their 21st birthdays.” Intimate, by-appointmentonly tastings take place in a beautiful tasting room overlooking their historic Dr. Crane Vineyard, or al fresco on a welcoming patio. When it comes to choosing a favorite from his lineup, Rich admits it’s not easy. He says it all depends on what he’s having for dinner. “Our estate vineyard is prime for Cabernet Sauvignon, and our love of family and pasta leads
me to Sangiovese. Of course, our Petite Sirah is historic to the vineyard, so I would need to mention that one too, but it is very hard to choose!” When it comes to the future of the fourth generation of producers, Rich envisions his daughters as one day taking over the presses. “Yes, our girls are finishing their education, two in college and one still in high school,” he said. “And they are very interested in being a part of the winery and vineyard when the time is right.” FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.salvestrinwinery.com BEST OF 2019
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NVL wineries
SENDERS WINES Creates Smiles around the World BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
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othing goes better with a beautiful wine than a beautiful cause that allows children to smile again. Senders Wines with a Cause does that exactly. One hundred percent of their profits support charities that help children with cleft lip and palate. Karen and Craig Senders call it, “Take a Sip and Save a Lip.” Craig began making wine in early 2000’s while living in Davis, California. Karen attributes world renowned UC Davis enology and viticulture school, living one hour from Napa, and a social circle of wine connoisseurs, cooks and foodies for driving Craig’s passion. “We started turning the best fruit in the valley into wine,” said Karen. “After a few years of winning awards for our home winemaking, increasing demand for the wine and encouragement from friends, Senders Wines went commercial in 2005.” The Cabernet Sauvignon is made Oakville Station Vineyard which surrounded by some amazing vineyards including Opus One, Martha’s and To Kalon. This hallowed 74
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soil produces small, slow to ripen grapes which creates intense but balanced wines. Our wines are intended to drink very well upon release and age gracefully. Winemaker Craig Senders greatest passion is Pinot Noir. “Cabernet is like wine in a sweatshirt; The intensity of the grape covers up many nuanced flavors. Pinot Noir is like wine in a negligee; All the nuanced flavors show through” says the winemaker. The Pinot comes from grower Frances Mahoney in Carneros. Their award-winning vintages have the flavor of giving, since Senders Wines donates all their profits to support surgical missions to repair cleft lips and palates in children in underserved communities and countries. “In a few weeks, Dr. Senders will be in Myanmar where over 70 children will receive new smiles and new lives,” said Karen. As the director of the UC Davis of Cleft and Craniofacial Team this will mark his 41st mission. It will be followed by March and June surgical missions to the Philippines. Over 3000
children have received new smiles by the teams of surgeons, dentists and nurses from these missions. A flight attendant for Continental airlines, followed by a director for March of Dimes Karen currently loves everything about wine. “I love the history, art, food pairings, friendships, and mood enhancement!” said Karen. “Craig loves the challenge that the Pinot Noir grape gives him. He agrees with the movie Sideways, “the pinot noir grape is the most finicky, complicated, needing constant care and nurturing to be coaxed to its fullest expression.” With occasional tastings by appointment at their home and winery in Davis, their primary tasting room is in downtown Napa at Feast It Forward. Their wines range from $26 to $100. “Senders Wines followers love the wines and the cause.” said Karen. “Many customers gift them because it’s fulfilling, like giving and receiving to the recipient.” FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit them online at www.senderswines.com or at Taste it Forward, located at 1031 McKinstry Street
COME FOR THE
GEYSER STAY FOR THE FUN! GAZE AT the wonder of one of only three Old Faithful Geysers in the world. UNWIND in one of our lounge or picnic areas to enjoy a bottle of wine with views of the Napa Valley. PLAY with family & friends a spirited game of bocce ball. BEFRIEND and connect with our super friendly and playful farm animals. LEARN about the earth we stand on by exploring our Geology Museum.
Open daily at 8:3Oam www.oldfaithfulgeyser.com
NVL wineries
BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
Handcrafted Luxury Wines from
BLACK CAT VINEYARD
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or owner, winemaker, and farmer Tracey Reichow of Black Cat Vineyard, winemaking is the ultimate partnership between her and the earth itself. “With 20 vintages of winemaking under my belt, I am well-acquainted with the science of winemaking, but ultimately, it’s my experience and personal relationship with the vines and Mother Nature, a.k.a. Boss, that drive my decisions in winemaking.” It’s through this respect for the earth that Reichow and her team create exclusive, highly allocated wines sourced from the most prestigious regions of the Napa Valley. Priced at $55 to $105 per bottle, each vintage is a sell-out. No longer selling to shops and restaurants, Black Cat wines are available exclusively at their winery and to their Members Only club members. 76
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“ While I am well trained and make good use of current wisdom and modern technology, my abilityto produce fine wine is ultimately driven by my personal involvement and understanding of the land, its vines and the wines they produce,” said Reichow.
Daily presence in the vineyard and winery allows her and her team to develop an intimate sense for the vines and their wines. Black Cat’s team of four, three of them family, are laser focused on 10 different wines, most of which are single-vineyard and Members Only Collection wines. “We craft several single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons from Coombsville, Howell Mountain, Rutherford and St. Helena,” said Reichow. “We are also well known for our Estate Syrah and our proprietary blend, Family Cuvée. In addition to those wines, we produce small lots of Cabernet Franc, Mountain Zinfandel and Chardonnay.” Named by her kids after the family cat after they planted their first vineyard in 1996. ‘Black Cat’ (his real name) was a steadfast companion as they dug holes and planted vines together. “He never missed a
day of work!” said Reichow. “The name has had some unintended consequences though, since people always expect me to know more about cats than I do!” For Black Cat Vineyard, true handcrafting means that their wines have been, at most, touched by only four people - hand-farmed, handpicked, and delivered to the winery where it’s handcrafted into wine, aged, and hand-bottled. The wine is then bottle-aged in their winery where it stays until it is delivered directly to customers. Their business philosophy includes some ‘Fun for Tracey.’ “Seriously – otherwise why do it?” said Reichow. “Sometimes it’s hard to stick with the mission, since we feel pressure to expand, make more wine, and out-source more, but that could put us at risk to drift from the Fun for Tracey mission” FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.blackcatvineyard.com
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MEXICAN AMERICAN V I N T N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N
ALL AMERICAN HOMBRES Working Hard, Dreaming Big and Paying it Forward BY LAURA LARSON
The Mexican American Vintners Association (MAVA) is a non-profit association established in 2010 to promote, educate, and raise awareness about the contributions of Latinos in the wine industry. Centered in the Napa-Sonoma wine region, the Association is comprised of sixteen first and second generation Mexican-American vintners who take an active role in driving awareness of Hispanic presence in the industry as well as raising scholarship money to encourage and support future generations. 78
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M
exican-American workers literally laid the groundwork in the rise of the multi-billion wine business in the US dating back to the 1940’s with the braceros who came over on eight month Visas as farmworkers. Each Association member has a family story to tell about humble beginnings working in the fields at very young ages and working their way up holding positions as vineyard managers, cellar masters, and winery owners. They were taught that their hard work and determination would create opportunities, and those opportunities would bring them happiness by providing a sense of accomplishment and feeling of security. Several of the flagship MAVA wineries have multigenerational coming-of-age stories that provide inspiration for the growing Hispanic
winery community. One of the Valley’s original Industry pioneers is Reynaldo Robledo. At the young age of sixteen, with no money and unable to speak English, he followed his father and uncles to California to work in the fields. Over the next two decades he became responsible for planting and managing thousands of acres of vineyards for Christian Brothers and Sonoma Cutrer. Honing his skills as a master grafter, he saved his money, and in 1984, purchased his first property, a thirteen acre junkyard in Carneros. After removing eighteen truckloads of debris by hand, he planted vineyards and began selling grapes and producing bulk wine for local wineries. Reynaldo always dreamed of having his own winery. In 2000 his dream came true when he brought on Mark Burch and Rolando Herrera
Guillermo Herrera, age 6, working alongside his mother
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to help him launch Robledo Family Winery. He is humbled and proud to have made his mark in history as the first Mexican American migrant worker to open a winery tasting room open to the public. Over the years, in addition to raising nine children, Reynaldo expanded his enterprise into five separate companies. He is still active in the business, but in 2012 he turned the winery and vineyard management companies over to his five sons, with Everardo at the helm as CEO/ Winemaker and Lazaro overseeing sales. Today the Robledos own more than 350 acres of vineyards which produce more than 40,000 cases of wine. www.robledofamilywinery.com Oscar Renteria has a rich family history which laid the groundwork for the businesses he runs today. Renteria Vineyard Management, where he presides as President and CEO, was started by his father, Salvador, who immigrated to Napa Valley in the early 60’s from Jalisco, Mexico. A skilled barber by trade, Salvador developed a unique technique for pruning and was soon put in charge of managing vineyards for legendary wineries such as Sterling and BV, where he worked
Osacr80 and Salvador Renteria of Tres Perlas NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM
Reynaldo Robledo and Sons
alongside wine pioneers Robert Mondavi and Andre Tchelistcheff. Oscar remembers growing up in St. Helena in the 1960s working in the fields with his fourteen aunts, uncles, and thirty-six cousins. They were close, raised to work hard and support one another. He recalls some of the conditions back then were not regulated, and workers dealt with challenges unthinkable today, such as no bathrooms, breaks, or minimum hourly wages.
In 1987, after a couple of decades working for other companies, Salvador started Renteria Vineyard Management. After Oscar graduated from college in 1989, Salvador convinced him to come on board to help him manage the business. He taught Oscar the value of building integrity and strong relationships. Advice well heeded, Oscar has grown the company to 480 employees and manages over 1900 acres of vineyards for some of Napa Valley’s most esteemed wineries. Over time, Oscar came full circle, and in 1997 opened the family winery, Renteria Wines. After becoming disheartened with the three-tier side of the business, he decided to reinvent the brand to enable him to be closer to his customers. In 2014, he launched Tres Perlas (meaning ‘Three Pearls’) as an homage to the three generations of family heritage and his three daughters. The estate label produces ~1200 cases of boutique, luxury wines which are allocated directly to his customers.
The Renteria family is very active in the local wine community, and outside of the work he does with MAVA, Oscar leverages his mantel as a prominent business owner to be a voice for the Hispanic farm workers through the Napa Valley Growers Association, The Napa Valley Community Foundation, and other local Board positions. His goal is to help foster self- sufficiency by teaching English language skills, developing scholarship programs and providing resources to support paths to citizenship. www.tresperlas.com Juan and Miriam Puentes of Honrama Cellars is a family story based on a Father’s dream and a daughters’ dedication. Miriam’s father, Honorio-Rameriz-Mata, worked in the vineyards in the mid-eighties and worked his way up to his role as cellar foreman for Caymus Winery where he worked for more than sixteen years. He often spoke to Miriam about his dream to open a winery and asked her to help him when she returned from College. Unfortunately, he passed away before she graduated, but in her devastation, she was determined to carry out his wishes.
Cruz Calderon and Jesus Espinoza of Sealon Cellars
Juan and Miriam Puentes of Honrama Cellars
Juan Puentes came to Napa at the young age of nine and worked with his parents in the fields and used his paycheck to pay for school clothes. When he and Miriam met, he had just returned from enlistment in the Army. They soon fell in love, and she shared her desire to fulfill her father's dream. He promised he would help make it happen. Shortly after, he landed a job at a Crush facility in Napa and learned the business from the ground up. It was hard cellar work, but he was young, hungry and driven. Through his connections he took a management role with a wine filtration company and built a strong reputation growing it from two employees to 450. During the economic downturn in 2007, Juan used his business savvy to acquire grapes at low to zero cost and started to produce wine. Eventually, Juan built his own bulk wine business (Puentes Wine Company) and fulfilled Miriam’s dream to start a winery, which they named Honrama, after Mariam’s father. They recently purchased a ranch in S. Napa where they plan to plant vineyards and raise their Charreria (Rodeo) horses, where Juan and his sons practice their
skills as state champion Charros. www.honramacellars.com Some of the first generation MAVA members share similar stories of aspiration and perseverance. Scalon Cellars was formed in 2010 by Cruz Calderon and Jesus Espinoza. Both men had come to Napa as teenagers, Jesus working the vineyards for John Caldwell and Cruz, working various jobs until he opened his own construction company. After becoming friends while Cruz was building Caldwell’s underground cave, they used to meet after work and drink a couple beers. One evening they ran out of beer and ended up sharing a bottle of Caldwell wine. Cruz had never tasted anything like it. He looked at Jesus and said “This is too good… How can we get into it?” Through Jesus’s relationship with John Caldwell, they got their hands on a couple of tons of fruit and were off to the races. They now produce over 750 cases of wine from the Coombsville vineyard as well as several others around Napa Valley. Although they both keep their day jobs, the wine business is their passion. www.scaloncellars.com
Llamas Family of Llamas Family Wines
Llamas Family Wines is a collaborative project owned by Oscar & Lola Llamas. Oscar owns Valley Auto Body which he opened at the young age of twenty. Many of their family members worked the fields in the early 1950’s and his family spent years planting and
managing the first acres of what would later become the famed Stagecoach Vineyard. After his father passed away, Oscar wanted to create a wine label as an homage to the hard work their combined families invested in Napa’s vineyards for over forty years. In 2009 he was able to acquire a ton of grapes from BEST OF 2019
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Guillermo Herrera
Dr. Jan Krupp and launched his first vintage. Serendipitously, his nephew Alejandro was embarking on a career as a winemaker and Oscar brought him on board. Today the Llamas’ produce between 200-250 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Stagecoach Vineyards Prichard Hill Block 12C which to this day is still farmed by Alejandro’s mother. www.llamasfamilywines.com Guillermo Herrera worked in the fields as a small child. He fondly remembers his ‘daycare’ was working alongside his mom carrying grape bins or accompanying her to clean houses. Through his years growing up in the vineyards and lifelong experiences in vineyard cultivation, Guillermo launched Heritage Vineyard Management, one of Napa Valley’s most preeminent viticultural management companies. In 2007, with the encouragement of his family, he opened his winery, Herencia Del Valle (“Heritage” in Spanish) where he produces 750 cases of critically acclaimed wines. He candidly admits juggling multiple businesses can present a grueling schedule but firmly believes 82
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hard work is pivotal to success. His typical day starts at 5:30 a.m. He makes lunch, throws his dog in the back of the truck, meets his crew on a job site at 7:00 a.m. and works with them in the fields for an hour or so ‘to set the pace.’ He then makes the rounds checking on one of the thirty properties he manages and in the late afternoon he heads back to the office to meet with clients, run forecast reports, and often works into the evenings on the phone trying to sell wine. In addition to his two businesses, Guillermo Herrera serves as the current President of the Mexican American Vintners Association where he leads the charge providing a forum for Association members to collaborate on business strategies, joint events, and fundraising
opportunities. He is able to leverage their economy of scale as a bargaining chip to maximize market positioning or negotiate purchasing opportunities on behalf of the Association. While MAVA members are committed to bolster one another, they are dedicated to using their collective voice to shine a light on things that matter to the greater Hispanic community. Each year MAVA hosts events co-sponsored with various non-profit organizations designed to raise money for academic scholarships and college programs as well as providing fundamental services which help Latino community members become more self- sufficient, like learning English, offering help with paths to Citizenship, free tax preparation and health or social services. www.herenciawines.com
The Mexican American Vintners have proven that with hard work, anything can be accomplished. MAVA members share a unified vision that the United States is a Nation of great opportunity where Latinos can thrive, and the American dream is possible for all.
MAVA Winery Members
FOR MORE INFORMATION and a complete list of the Mexican American Vintners, visit www.nsmava.org
A Center of Excellence Over 50 years of combined experience and 50,000 aesthetic procedures
Best of Marin comes to Napa! Dr. Stanley Poulos and Dr.Yngvar Hvistendahl founded Plastic Surgery Specialists (PSS) in Marin County on the belief that a team of experts would exceed the sum of its parts. As board certified plastic surgeons with over 50 years of combined experience they share the technical expertise and artistic vision necessary to achieve exceptional results over decades. Now PSS is excited to announce that Napa aesthetic plastic surgeon, Dr. Terry Restivo is joining our team and we will proudly expand our availability in the North Bay to both Napa and Marin. Our team of 20 “specialists” are all dedicated to one thing—providing the best experience, every day, for every patient. Surgical services include face, breast, and body contour procedures. Combination procedures like Mommy Makeover can be addressed with a team of experts, cutting anesthesia and surgery time, reducing risk. Patients’ increasing interest and demand for nonsurgical aesthetics has lead to the growth of PSS MedSpa. Our services range from injections, to lasers and CoolSculpting, to the latest in aesthetic devices, all overseen by experienced surgeons and providers. We’ve added Health and Wellness program, including the Orbera Weight Loss balloon, to be able to offer our patients a solution when they need to lose weight before surgery. In a short time we’ve become one of the most successful weight loss centers in the country. Our weight loss patients then enjoy a significant surgical discount to fulfill their dream of the body they deserve.
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Surgical
Mommy Makeover Breast Augmentation Body Contouring Liposuction Brazilian Butt LIft Facelift | QuickLift Rhinoplasty and more
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Please visit us at www.psspecialists.com to learn more and welcome PSS to wine country.
NonSurgical Weight Loss
Plastic Surgery Specialists
Dr.Yngvar Hvistendahl
|
Dr. Terry Restivo
In Marin: Plastic Surgery Specialists 350 Bon Air Rd. #300 Greenbrae, CA 94904 415.925.2880
|
Dr. Stanley G. Poulos
Orbera Gastric Balloon Health and Wellness Program
In Napa: Watch for our new location, coming soon!
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NVL people & art
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Beauty
CAPTURING the
of NAPA
ARTICLE AND PHOTO BY JANNA WALDINGER / ART & CLARITY
W
hile Bob McClenahan enjoyed exploring the realm of photography as a youth with his father, he was educated in business, finance and communications. Bob continues to state that he does not see himself as an artist. After moving to Napa with his wife to be close to her family, he was inspired by the beauty of Napa and wanted to capture it. So, he brought out his camera and his life began to change. Bob loves his job as a professional photographer and it shows with the results of his stunning photography. He has a great sense of composition and mastery of light. He also has an eye for black and white. He enjoys using the Sony mirrorless camera in which he can see directly through the lens what he is going to capture.
“ I love the access that being a professional photographer affords me,” Bob described. He enjoys discovering new locations, always shooting something new and meeting new people. Bob see his photography divided into two categories. One is the event world where he is asked to capture what is happening in front of him and make it visually interesting. The other is the commercial photography which his sees as totally made up, making the subject look better than it is. He doesn’t shoot for pleasure. He shoots for somebody else, to match their vision. Bob can be seen throughout the Napa Valley documenting events from BottleRock to the Napa Valley Vintners, Legendary Napa Valley and the Napa Valley Chamber of Commerce to name just a few of his clients. For a view of his portfolio and to book his services visit www.bobmcclenahan.com.
PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE We believe money is a vehicle to achieve what truly matters in life: Having security and peace of mind
Helping family pursuing life passions giving back Call today to schedule a free financial review Jacobson Wealth Management 1030 Seminary St., Suite A Napa, CA 94559 (707) 224-7424 info@jacobsonwealth.com www.jacobsonwealth.com
Best Financial Planner Investments and Financial Advice offered through United Financial Services (UP), Member FINRA, SIPC. 76Planners NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM JWM and UP are independent companies
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NVL travel
KUKUI’ULA s t h Lig p KAUA'I U A bygone sugar plantation on the Garden Island has been transformed into the sweet smell of Aloha BY ROBERT KAUFMAN
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In airport code, LIH represents Lihue, Kaua’i. Although, once on the “Garden Island,” my personable urban dictionary translates that acronym to “Life in Heaven.”
T
he wordplay switch is instantaneous after disembarking the aircraft and inhaling my first breath of warm, tropic-infused air. Each of the islands of USA’s 50th state jogs one’s emotions and senses in its own unique way but Hawaii’s oldest landscape, at 5.1 million years, with emerald valleys, lush rainforests, and jagged cliffs captures my “Aloha Spirit” more than any other in the archipelago. Adding to the allure, Kaua’i serves a surplus of activities and diverse levels of lodging for generating an all-embracing assortment of adventures. While I’ve enjoyed many visits, my most recent journey proved to be nothing less than a five-pineapple experience. After traversing 25 minutes along a one-lane highway and passing through historic Old Koloa Town near Poi’pu Beach on the south shore, I arrive at
Kukui’ula (koo-koo-ee-oo-la), a marquee resort and residential community deserving of A-list star billing on an island that has provided scenic backdrops for movies such as South Pacific, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Jurassic Park, and The Descendants. Spoiler alert: the admission ticket may not be bargain friendly but the behind-the-scenes amenities make Kukui’ula one of the most coveted seats on Kaua’i for guests of all ages. Action! From the moment I stepped foot onto this Pacific island playground overlooking the crashing waves of Sprouting Horn and before I could mutter humuhumunukunukuapuaia, I was being escorted to my temporary headquarters at the Lodge at Kukui’ula. “Holy coconuts,” was my initial reaction as the front door swung open to a two-bedroom (three if you count the detached “Ohana” guest house), beautifully furnished plantation-style Club Cottage with 2,600 square feet of living space, including hardwood flooring, screened-in lanai, state-of-the-art kitchen, laundry room, and spacious bathrooms that lead to outdoor garden showers. “Kaua’i is simply an easy place to live and what Kukui’ula does is make everything accessible for anyone who chooses to live here and that involves the ethos of Kaua'i which is very different from the other Hawaiian Islands,” said London native Nicholas Gold, the General Manager at The Club at Kukui’ula since Fall 2017, following jobs at other exclusive properties such as Amangiri in Utah, and Enchantment and Miraval Resorts in Arizona. “There are similar type clubs on the other islands but the majority of our buyers and guests wouldn’t enjoy them and, to be honest, the ones that bought elsewhere wouldn’t appreciate Kukui’ula. We consider ourselves less pretentious while facilitating bringing BEST OF 2019
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NVL travel
people together to experience what we call ‘pupus of adventure,’ meaning we’ll give you a taste of surfing, paddle boarding, golf, hiking, a taste of this, a taste of that for you to approach at whatever desired level and then we’ll help you take it to the next level. More importantly, we’ll introduce you to communities of people on the island doing the same thing, so it’s not just that ‘stuck in a resort thing’ but rather being part of the greater community. At the end of the day we’re selling a dream.” Make no mistake. The Lodge at Kukui’ula is the real deal. While there exists some prime land for sale at the 1,010-acre residential community for those with the pocketbook to build that fantasy residence, as a blend of both a private club (currently around 200 members) and resort, all the frills of membership are available to anyone. The only prerequisite is to stay a minimum three nights in one of the very spacious luxury residential accommodations consisting of two/three-bedroom Club Cottages ($1,079-$1,439/nt), one/three-bedroom Club Bungalows ($899-$1,439/nt) and four-bedroom Club Villas ($2,039/nt) that can sleep up to eight people. Each of these homes is owned by a Club Member and placed in the Lodge program, managed by Two Roads Hospitality. Once settled, the world of Kukui’ula is your oyster that is filled with access to a full menu of ingredients even King 88
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Kamehameha would be envious of. For starters, all homes are within walking distance to the central social gathering hub, a 21,000-square foot clubhouse overlooking Kukui’ula Bay, featuring Umeke Kitchen + Bar, game room, swimming pools with a beach surround and sand-pit volleyball court, and tennis courts. Also within view are the 9th and 18th holes of the Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course that follows Kukui'ula’s natural roller-coaster terrain through the coffee fields, meadows and hillsides with no shortage of distracting ocean views.
As if Kukui’ula doesn’t already stimulate enough laid-back ambience, step into the 18,000-squarefoot Hi’ilani Spa + Fitness to slow life further with an indoor or outdoor treatment. Or, perhaps, take advantage of the lava rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, lap pool, or any of the daily fitness classes. Vacationing foodies will feel right at home at Kukui’ula thanks to the onsite 10-acre communal farm known as a
“treasure chest” of 78 different seasonal fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. For Executive Chef, Ben Takahashi, it’s his culinary Shangri-la providing all the ingredients for every recipe on his menu. In addition, all guests are invited to visit whenever they wish to pluck any fresh produce to use in their own rental home. Don’t forget the fresh mint for mojitos! Following several extended visits to Kaua’i and becoming transfixed with the island community, Napa residents Mary Rocca and her husband, Eric Grigsby, had the opportunity to take advantage of guest passes to Kukui’ula and, as a result, wound up buying into the Hawaiian nirvana hook, line and sinker! The couple had already owned a home nearby the property but chose to invest in a Club Bungalow to make use of all the amenities offered at Kukui’ula.
“I believe the true sense of Aloha really does exist on Kaua'i and the Hawaiian hospitality is so warm and welcoming by the people who work at Kukui’ula,” said Rocca, owner of Rocca Family Wines in Napa. “When there, we love doing outrigger canoeing and I make lots of use of the gym, fitness classes, play tennis and, of course, enjoy happy hour with a glass of wine watching the gorgeous sunset while getting to know the other members.” Every guest, member or not, is a beneficiary of Kukui’ula’s “Way of Aloha” that is woven into the property fabric by all employees, regardless of rank. Regrettably, as a visiting tenant, my toughest task was resisting the temptation to peak in the rear-view mirror as I drove away to catch my flight to HSH (a.k.a. Home Sweet Home). FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.kukuiula.com
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NVL featured property
Tina Shone's Stellar Team F E AT U R E S
Stellar Kenwood Property BY CHARLEEN EARLEY
Tina Shone gets to wake up every day and pursue her passion of showcasing and selling properties and making people’s dreams come true, all while enjoying breathtaking Wine Country landscapes and sharing her love with family.
A
s owner of the Tina Shone Group, she’s been living her passion since 1976 as a thirdgeneration real estate professional and with the good fortune of working with family. Her love affair for this work, she said, “is an ongoing process with individual client circumstances and needs, fluid economy and regulations, ever-changing building and marketing technologies, unique properties, being outdoors and in the community.” Born and raised in San Francisco, she began her real estate career at the age of 16 and opened her own property management firm in 1978, managing 90 units throughout the City and learning the nuts and bolts of repairs 90
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and renovation hands on. Tina earned her sales license in 1980 and moved to Sonoma. She is currently ranked #2 in sales volume in Sonoma and placed in the top 1-3% of Sotheby’s International Realty for the last 3 years. She credits this success to her strong “work ethic, integrity and commitment to clients’ well-being.” Credit is also extended to her close-knit family. “I work with my children, Evan and Amanda,” said Tina, who puts in a labor of love of about 70 hours a week. “They have deep roots in Wine Country including their great uncle who founded Shone Farm, an extension of the Agricultural Department of Santa Rosa Junior College. My mother, a long-time agent, contributes with an artistic eye, a sense of humor and common sense. My niece, Karly, brings her graphic arts degree with creative application.” This team blends a solid degree of industry knowledge and long-time professional relationships. Their tenure in the business crossing multiple counties has prepared them to represent many types of properties from first-time homes, investments and development properties, to marketing and selling exclusive estates. For Tina and her team, this is more than just a job.
“ We view our job as a legacy career,” she said. “We get great satisfaction in securing our clients the right property or selling their property and are grateful for the ongoing relationships we have established.” This exceptional team contributes to the community through volunteering and donations. Their list of properties listed and sold throughout Napa and Sonoma is extensive – from a Sonoma Mountain cabin, to a former resort along the Napa River, to a contemporary vineyard estate masterpiece, to a mobile home near an airplane hangar.
Tina Shone Sotheby’s International Realty DRE# 00787338 707-799-7556 BEST OF 2019
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Also included are Marin County ranches and mansions, a rammed earth estate in Hopland and several celebrity properties. All transactions are treated with the same attention to detail and care. For this article Tina is proudly showcasing the White Fang Glen, Kenwood property, a gorgeous ranch on 76 stunning acres comprised of three parcels, a vineyard, a building site with a 360’ view and two exquisite residences. “The expansive property sits amidst a gorgeous swath of the valley with comprehensive infrastructure that was installed with respect for the land and the legacy of the property. It has the feeling of a preserve and can accommodate a multi-generation family.” Additional striking features include a terraced Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, planted and cared-for in the ‘old ways’, a readied pond, sculpture gardens, expansive stone patios and a stone stage with Valley of the Moon views to San Francisco. Visiting White Fang Glen is truly the best way to experience the surprise of the close-in location and the awe of the property and improvements. FOR MORE INFORMATION
about this property and to view the video, visit www.exclusivekenwoodranch.com or www.tinashone.com.
NVL featured property
Wine Country living at its finest
Wine Country living at its finest 3100 Old Sonoma Road | Napa, California 3100 Old Sonoma Road | Napa, California Offered at $12,500,000 Offered at3100OldSonomaRd.com $12,500,000 • 3100 OldSonomaRd.com full /bathrooms 3 half bathrooms 6 bedrooms6 bedrooms | 5 full / 3| 5half | 5,562 ± sqare feet | 34.85 ± acres 5,562 ± sqare feet | 34.85 ± acres
One-of-a-kind knoll topestate estatewith withpanoramic panoramic views. 34± knoll top One-of-a-kind acre 34± gated sanctuary located close-in but a world apart. views. acre gated sanctuary located closein Modern, but a world apart. Modern, sophisticated sophisticated 5,500+ square foot residence with 5,500+ square foot residence with more than more than 4,000 square feet of outdoor terraces designed 4,000 square feet of outdoor terraces designed with entertaining in mind. Pool, infinity-edge spa, outdoor with entertaining mind. and Pool, more. infinity-edge kitchen, Ioggiainroom Hobbyspa, wine outdoor kitchen, loggia room and more. Hobby building, 3,000± Carneros appellation vines, wine building, 3,000± Carneros appellation vines, plus the Ramspur private label equipment. plus the Ramspur private label and equipment.
Cyndi Gates, Broker Owner 707-333-7770 | cyndi@gatesestatessir.com 6550 Washington | Yountville, CA 94599 Cyndi Street Gates Broker Owner 707-944-0888 | gatesestatessir.com 707.333.7770
6550 Washington Street | Yountville, CA 94599 707.944.0888 | gatesestatessir.com Each office is independently owned and operated
CalDRE#00711618 cyndi@gatesestatessir.com Each office CalDRE#00711618 is independently owned and operated
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THE HIDDEN GEM:
Euclid Wines BY VALERIE OWENS
Mike and Lucas Farmer, photo by Robinson Kuntz
W
ith a history rooted in winemaking, Euclid Wines is an example of passion and dedication to the time-honored craft. For Father and Son Proprietors, Mike and Lucas Farmer, 41 years of experience became the catalyst for Euclid Wines, a brand inspired by ingenuity, aptitude, and the ultimate partnership. “My wife Sara and I moved to Napa in 1979 to raise our family. I began my career as a harvest employee for Robert Mondavi Winery. We called it Mondavi University. If you had a passion for wine, the sky was the limit,” expressed Co-Proprietor of Euclid Wines, Mike Farmer. After 14 years with Robert Mondavi Winery, Mike Farmer took a Cellar Master position with Opus One Winery under the direction of Tim Mondavi and Patrick Leon. For 21 years, Mike garnered experience
and learned the artistry of winemaking. Becoming the Assistant Winemaker and Production Manager, Mike’s talent was undeniable. “During my 21 years I had interns from all over the world to work with and to teach and learn from as well. Great ideas can come from many different places.” A teacher, hard worker and wine enthusiast, Mike Farmer had the respect of all he encountered, but most importantly, he had the respect of his son, Lucas. “I grew up in the business. Wine has been a part of my family’s life since before I was born,” said Co-Proprietor of Euclid Wines, Lucas Farmer. “I decided to get serious about learning my Father’s trade. I had an amazing opportunity to learn from one of the best Winemakers in the valley and my best friend.”
New Aspect Financial Services, LLC. is licensed to sell insurance in AZ, CA, IL, MA, MI and MN, and is registered to offer securities in AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MA, MD, MI, MN, NY, OH and TX. Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC and Registered Investment Advisor. New Aspect Financial Services, LLC. and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. are not affiliated entities
Together, Mike and Lucas Farmer launched Euclid Wines in 2009. Producing just 650 cases annually, the Father and Son team is a collaboration composed of passion, talent and friendship.
“ Our goal is to produce wines that are delicious upon release and stand the test of time,” said Mike Farmer. “We don't want to just impress you, we want to seduce you.” Selling Direct to Consumer through word of mouth, the boutique brand is a hidden gem within the valley. With a focus on relationships, and quality, Euclid Wines is an authentic expression of the region. "I’ve enjoyed watching the Euclid brand evolve and thrive over the years,” said Financial Planner of New Aspect Financial Services, Matthew Mullowney. “As a former chef, it's winemakers like Lucas and Mike who continue to drive my passion for food and wine, which is what brought me to the Napa Valley.” “Robert Mondavi use to say that there is room at the table for everyone. Well, 40 years later, Lucas and I are at the table,” expressed Mike Farmer.
p: 707 346 7601 | f: 707 260 6131 e: info@newaspectfs.com 1475 Fourth Street, Napa, CA 94559 BEST OF 2019
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NVL money & wealth
MARKET VOLATILITY Friend or Foe? BY RICH JACOBSON
D
ecember 2018 represented the worst December in the stock market since 1931. This was certainly an unwelcome surprise for investors. This development may seem especially extreme after the unusual calm we’ve had in the markets during most of 2017 and 2018. In those two years, the measure of volatility, called the “VIX”, remained at historically low levels for extended periods of time- almost half the long-term average. In fact, the lowest level of volatility ever measured was November 3, 2017, at just 9.14. You’d be forgiven if you didn’t notice that particular milestone since it was simply a very “calm” day in the markets. Today, our volatility is right around the long-term average of 19.4, yet the talk everywhere is how everything is going “off the rails”. Why is this? Well, first it’s because there appears to be an inverse relationship between the level of the S&P 500 and the level of volatility- at least over the short run. As volatility goes up, the stock market tends to go down. The interesting thing, however, is that volatility, as measured by the VIX, appears to make much bigger swings than the stock market itself. In other words, the market’s movements up and down on a daily or weekly basis, appear to be much more extreme than if you were to simply graph the overall change in the value of the markets over time. There are several factors responsible for this. One is the tendency to focus on short-term versus long term market performance. Anyone who dissects the chart of the S&P 500 index over time can easily spot a long-term upward trend line even though a closer examination will reveal significant volatility on an annual basis within that trend. Unfortunately, we plan on the basis of
the long-term trends while we live as emotional beings within the short-term daily trials that life hands us. That is why it is so hard to “stay the course” when every emotional fiber within us says “run”! The second factor is the human tendency to notice pain of loss more than the joy of gain. This has been confirmed by multiple experiments showing people become increasingly “loss” averse after they believe they have received a certain gain. We pay attention when markets become volatile and start falling- especially after a sustained period of historically low volatility and market gains, precisely because we hate losing what we think we gained- even if we know that volatility is part of investing and the “loss” on any particular day is no more certain than the gain we thought we had just prior. The last factor is perception bias. We judge the world mostly from our recent experiences- even if those experiences are historically abnormal. When 30-year mortgage interest rates changed from 3.00% to 4.5%, we feel that the new rate environment is “not right”, even though it is far closer to the long-term average 30-year rate and the 3% rate represented a historically low aberration. The same is true of stock market volatility. Today, with market volatility back to its average level of the past 30 years, we may feel things have become “much worse” when in fact we are simply experiencing a perception bias based on recent events. So, the next time you hear talk about how “volatile” the markets have become, remember that nothing lasts forever, think about your long-term plans and, do a reality check to see if what appears to be happening is simply distorted by recent events. In many cases you may be well advised to just “fuhgeddaboudit”!
Rich Jacobson is a Registered Principal Offering Securities and Investment Services through United Planners Financial Services, Member: FINRA, SIPC. The views expressed are those of the presenter and may not reflect the views of United Planners Financial Services. Material discussed is meant to provide general information and it is not to be construed as specific investment, tax or legal advice. Individual needs vary and require consideration of your unique objectives and financial situation. 94
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Farfrom fromOrdinary Ordinary Far SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMPETITION
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NVL health & wellness
EVERYONE FLOATS
True REST Floatation Spa, an intriguing new business in Napa BY JANNA WALDINGER
Ross White believes that too many people are suffering from stress, anxiety, pain, depression, and difficulty. He yearned to create a way to give people a tool to access the “Science of Feeling Great”, which he believes will help make the world a better place.
H
is career path involved a number of twists and turns. Starting as a geologist, he then earned an MBA degree from UC Davis. This was followed by a period in the wine industry and then later Ross worked as a licensed general contractor. About a year ago Ross decided to take another radical turn in his professional life after he discovered Flotation Therapy. During our interview, Ross disclosed that it was as a recovering alcoholic (who has been sober since 2004), that he had an awakening. He realized that he had been using alcohol to relieve his mental pain caused by mistaken core beliefs about who he thought he should be. His recovery involved reconceptualizing the nature of his true self and developing a spiritual practice. He now uses flotation therapy as a unique tool that has allowed him to learn how his thoughts impact his reality, reduces his stress and anxiety, and taps into his ineffable higher power. As an additional benefit it is inadvertently a wonderful way to develop mindfulness, enabling one to observe the present moment fully without judgement. In October, 2018 Ross opened the first True REST (Reduced Environmental Stimulus Therapy) Float Spa in the Napa Valley. His mission is to create a supportive community of people who use flotation therapy as a tool for their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Floating can create peace in one’s heart, no matter their size. This comes about by floating in one thousand pounds of pharmaceutical Epsom Salts dissolved in one hundred eighty gallons of triple filtered water which reduces inflammation in joints and muscles. Flotation therapy offers a safe, natural, low-risk and scientifically researched remedy for many conditions that plague our modern-day culture. Also, many professional athletes including Steph Curry and Tom Brady are also using flotation therapy for physical recovery and to improve their inner-game (a critical aspect of high-level performance). Ross believes they are learning how to deal with pressure without being thrown off their game. In honor of 9/11 and other more recent difficult events, on the 11th of every month True REST will dedicate one of their Float Pods for a free 1st floats to veterans, first responders and anyone with PTSD. To book these special floats, call by the first of the month. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit www.truerest.com or email napa@truerest.com 96
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NVL food
UP CLOSE & PE RSONAL WITH NAPA VALLE Y CHE FS
CHEF TERRY LETSON of Fumé Bistro and Bar
Terry Letson, owner/chef of Fumé Bistro & Bar, is a familiar face within Napa’s local dining scene. He is known for the best food for the money specializing in local, fresh, seasonal, artisan ingredients.
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etson believes in supporting the local farming community and sees Fumé Bistro as the “Cheers” of Napa Restaurants. He boasts of an ALL Napa Wine List. “Sunday Night Supper” promotes his passion for family. This past year he teamed up with Vintners Andy and Marissa Amador as new partners in the restaurant. 98
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Letson’s interest in food and cuisine started at an early age. As one of eight children, cooking came out of necessity at first and then morphed into a passion that he has followed since age 15 when he started working in restaurants. The menu items at Fumé can change even daily depending on what is available from the various local farmers. In addition to his restaurant, Letson also owns a successful catering business. He attributes much of his success to the synergy of his great team, who he sees as family. Letson puts as much love into his culinary career as he does into his devotion for his family. With his wife, local artist Sheri DeBow, the duo’s emphasis is on raising their five children. They love to travel with the kids, which is mostly to food and wine events around the country at which Letson is cooking as a guest chef. A favorite event is the Disney Food and Wine Festival at Epcot;
it's not a surprise that the kids make sure that Dad attends every year to cook on behalf of Fumé. Letson loves observing the transformation of Napa and the growth in visitor traffic.
“ It’s amazing how the valley has changed,” he said. “15 years ago, hardly anyone stopped in Napa; now there’s no reason to leave Napa!” Fumé Bistro and Bar can be seen off Highway 29, but it takes a few well-worth turns off of Trower Avenue to make it to their front door on Byway East. FOR MORE INFORMATION
4050 Byway East, Napa 707-257-1999 / www.fumebistro.com
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made pastas, pork tenderloin and the signature Marinated Teriyaki Skirt Steak is not grilled prawns, crab, micro greens, goat cheese, chipotle aioli and to be missed! Allegria offersfresh a great assortment of delicious desserts, including the Serrano salsa. And, we tiramisu. offer interesting small plates and salads, rotisserie meats and poultry and classic homemade seasonal entrees with a C CASA twist.
menu that offers something for everyone. Dine on classics such as biscuits and gravy, like-minded businesses across Napa Valley. eggs benedict and fried chicken, or branch out and try our chicken and waffles or one of our signature burgers. A fun spot to meet up with friends or enjoy a meal with the whole family! 1122 First Street, Napa, CA 94559 1141 First Street Napa CA 94559 707-812-6853 | jaxwhitemulediner.com (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/
1026 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 707-254-8006 | www.ristoranteallegria.com 610 1st St #B, Napa, CA 94559 / Oxbow Market
NVL dining guide
T
707-226-7700 | www.myccasa.com
special special dining dining sec sec
RL mediterranean grill
WINE COUNTRY EL FRESCOITALIAN TRADITIONAL MEDITERRANEAN
MEDITERRANEAN COMFORT CUISINE AMERICAN GRILL & BAR TARLA - True to our namesake, the Tarlacomfort Grill aims to and yieldisnourishing, creative, and CELADON offers award-winning food located in the Napa River DOWNTOWN JOES - global An American style grill united with quality andtheir freshness. Our culturally eats originating Turkeyon and Greece, lands heralded for Inn. Enjoy exciting an unforgettable dining from experience our heated outdoor patio or in our menu is locally resourced then cooked with the flair that is true Napa Valley. We cuisine and a culture that takes pride in the relationship between mankind and the intimate indoor dining area.salads, The seasonally influenced menu features flavors from the proudly feature burgers, sandwiches, steaks, decadent land! We take our responsibility of ensuring the origins ofseafood, our ingredients seriously house made Mediterranean, Asia, and more the Americas. desserts, and modern pub grub. and pride ourselves on using local, seasonal and organic fare whenever possible.
MOMI a traditional Italian & organic food restaurant premium, locallyLA TOQUE’SCAChef KenisFrank’s landmark Napa Valley restaurant is the serving proud recipient SMALL WORLD - ingredients A world flavor awaits at Small Restaurant, where theand sourced, organic whenever possible inWorld support of localevolves purveyors of both a Michelin Star and The GrandofAward from Wine Spectator. The menu menu the vibrant cuisine of the Mediterranean andofthe Middle East. Falafel, like-minded businesses across Napa Valley. constantly to showfeatures off each season’s finest ingredients from a network local farmers Hummus, Babaus Ganoush, Schwarma, Pitafoods Sandwiches, Garden and purveyors who supply with some of the finest in the world. OurFresh wineSalads, and pairings areFresh-Made considered Baklava. by many to be the ultimate food and wine experience.
500 Street, Suite G, Napa, CA 94559 1480Main 1st St, Napa, CASt, 94559 902 Napa, CA 94559 707-254-9690 |Main celadonnapa.com 707-255-5599 | www.tarlagrill.com 707-258-2337 | www.downtownjoes.com
Street (Downtown Napa, CA 94559 The Westin 928 Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St,Napa), Napa, CA 94559 1141Coombs First Street Napa CA 94559 707-224-7743 707-257-5157 | www.latoque.com (707) 257-4992| SmallWorldRestaurant.com | www.camomienoteca.com/
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JAPENESE CUISINE AMERICAN CUISINE EIKO’S - Eiko’s delivers imaginative twists on traditional Japanese cuisine. Our vision NAPKINS - An American restaurant withJapanese an exciting sceneincluding for locals and travelfor the menu combines modern andcuisine authentic traditional cuisine ers who happen fish upon them.Weekend brunch (11 amfrom to 3our pm)local and markets one of the best seasonal, fresh sustainable and ingredients delivered daily happy hours in Napa (food and drink fromour 3 tochefs 7 pm). Weekend and purveyors. In addition to traditional raw fish specials preparation, creates a nights the bar turns electric entertainment livetaste performances and dancing to DJs selection ofarea innovative dishes with inspired by our localincluding culture and profiles featuring Napa as influence and inspiration.
1001 2nd St, Napa, CA 94559 1385 Napa Town Center, Napa, CA 94559 707-927-5333 | www.napkinsnapa.com 707-501-4444 | www.eikosnapa.com
ITALIAN AMERICAN GRILL & BAR BAR + GRILL DOWNTOWN JOES style grillexperience united withthrough quality food, and freshness. Our IL POSTO TRATTORIA - We offer- An theAmerican traditional italian TAVERN &the PIZZERIA isNapa acooked cozy, brick-walled with table & barWe seating menu is locallyinresourced then withOur themenu flairgastropub that is true Napa Valley. served in a COOK casual setting beautiful Valley. offers a variety slecfor seasonal American and Italian dishesmade and seafood, neapolitan-inspired pizza .house Perfectmade for proudly feature salads,along burgers, steaks, decadent tion of antipasta’s, salads, pizza’s withsandwiches, freshly pasta dishes. friends and families can stoppub in after work and enjoy a true tavern atmosphere. desserts, and more modern grub. 4211 Solano Ave, Napa, CA 94559 707-251-8600 | Main www.ilpostonapa.com 1304 St,Napa, St Helena, CA 94574 902 Main St, CA 94559 707-963-8082 707-258-2337 || www.cooktavern.com www.downtownjoes.com
special special dining dining section section NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM
FOODSPRING & WINE2017 2017
TRADITIONAL ORGANICITALIAN ITALIAN
CA' MOMIisOSTERIA is downtown Napa's food Obsessively Authentic experience, CA MOMI a traditional Italian & organic restaurant servingItalian premium, locallyserving locally-sourced, ingredients, Pizza Napoletana, local sourced,up organic ingredientsorganic whenever possible certified in support of local purveyors and& Italian wines,businesses garden-to-glass house-brewed organic beers & live music like-minded acrosscocktails, Napa Valley. each weekend. 1141 First Street, Napa, CA 94559 707-224-6664 www.camomi.com 1141 First Street| Napa CA 94559 (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/ 100
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AMERICAN CUISINE MEXICAN / TEX-MEX GASTROPUB & NANOBREWERY
NAPKINS - An American restaurant withatan exciting scene for locals and travelaapproach casual dining destination aimed providing localsorder with an experiC CASA - WeHOP offerCREEK a fresh tocuisine tacos and much more. Fresh, made-toers who happen upon them.Weekend brunch (11 am to 3 pm) and of the best ence built around a warm welcoming atmosphere, they can enjoy aone locally sourced white corn tortillas topped with ingredients like seasoned buffalo, rotisserie lamb, happy hours Napaunique (food and specials from 3 toand 7Valley pm). Weekend nights hours the bar menu, coupled with craft beers, spirits and aioli Napa wines. Happier grilled prawns, fresh crab,inmicro greens, goatdrink cheese, chipotle Serrano salsa. area turns electric with entertainment including livelarge performances and dancing Monday-Friday 2pm-6pm. Family and rotisserie dog friendly, parties welcome inside to or DJs on And, we offer interesting small plates and salads, meats and poultry and our relaxing side patio. Cheers! seasonal entrees with a creek C CASA twist. 1001Browns 2nd St, Napa, 3253 Valley CA Rd,94559 Napa, CA 94558 | 707-257-7708 | hopcreekpub.com 707-927-5333 | www.napkinsnapa.com 610 1st St #B, Napa, CA 94559 / Oxbow Market 707-226-7700 | www.myccasa.com
made pastas, pork tenderloin and the signature Marinated Teriyaki Skirt Steak is not menu that offers something for everyone. Dine on classics such as biscuits and gravy, to be missed! Allegria offers a great assortment of delicious desserts, including the eggs benedict and fried chicken, or branch out and try our chicken and waffles or one classic homemade tiramisu. of our signature burgers. A fun spot to meet up with friends or enjoy a meal with the whole family! St, Napa, CA 94559 1122 First Street, Napa, CA Napa 94559 Valley Wine List Award winners are recognized1026 for1st their outstanding selections of Napa Valley wines. 707-254-8006 | www.ristoranteallegria.com 707-812-6853 | jaxwhitemulediner.com
special special dining dining sect sec
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TRADITIONAL ITALIAN WINE COUNTRY EL FRESCO TRADITIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN STEAKHOUSE CA MOMI is a traditional Italian & organic food restaurant serving premium, locallysourced, organic ingredients whenever possible in support of local purveyors and - When you want a delicious Prime ribrecipient dinner, steak or fresh CA MOMI a traditional Italian & organic food restaurant serving premium, locallyLA TOQUE’STRANCAS Chef KenisSTEAKHOUSE Frank’s landmark Napa Valley restaurant is the proud like-minded businesses Napa Valley. seafood, the place to goacross isAward thewhenever Trancas Steakhouse. Many called their bar the sourced, organic ingredients possible in support of local purveyors and of both a Michelin Star and The Grand from Wine Spectator. Thehave menu evolves
MEDITERRANEAN TARLA - True to our namesake, the Tarla Grill aims to yield nourishing, creative, and culturally exciting eats originating from Turkey and Greece, lands heralded for their cuisine and a culture that takes pride in the relationship between mankind and the land! We take our responsibility of ensuring the origins of our ingredients seriously and pride ourselves on using local, seasonal and organic fare whenever possible.
of the west. The across barstools areValley. occupied locals every night of the week. The like-minded businesses Napa constantly toCheers show off each season’s finest ingredients from abynetwork of local farmers walls aresupply covered photosofof happy (you know who you are somebody and purveyors who us with some the finestcustomers foods in the world. Our wine you make the wall.) Theyultimate do havefood pictures of celebrities including owners pairings are when considered by many to be the and wine experience. 1141 Napa CA 94559 NormFirst andStreet Christy Sawicki. (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/ The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559 1141 First Street Napa CA 94559 707-257-5157 | Trancas www.latoque.com (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/ 999 Street, Napa, CA 94558 707-258-9990 | trancassteakhouse.com
1480 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 707-255-5599 | www.tarlagrill.com
MEXICAN / TEX-MEX JAPENESE CUISINE C CASA - We offer a fresh approach to tacos and much more. Fresh, made-to- order EIKO’S - Eiko’s delivers imaginative twists on traditional Japanese cuisine. Our vision white corn tortillas topped with ingredients like seasoned buffalo, rotisserie lamb, for the menu combines modern and authentic traditional Japanese cuisine including grilled prawns, fresh crab, micro greens, goat cheese, chipotle aioli and Serrano salsa. seasonal, fresh sustainable fish and ingredients delivered daily from our local markets And, we offer interesting small plates and salads, rotisserie meats and poultry and and purveyors. Inwith addition to traditional seasonal entrees a C CASA twist. raw fish preparation, our chefs creates a selection of innovative dishes inspired by our local culture and taste profiles featuring Napa as influence and inspiration. 610 1st St #B, Napa, CA 94559 / Oxbow Market 1385 Napa Town Center, Napa, CA 94559 | www.myccasa.com 707-226-7700 707-501-4444 | www.eikosnapa.com
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AMERICAN GRILL & BAR AMERICAN CUISINE ITALIAN AMERICAN GRILL & BAR DOWNTOWN JOES - An American style grill united with quality and freshness. Our NAPA GENERAL STORE Refreshing locals and visitors since 2002. Our riverside menu is locallyJOES resourced then cooked with the flairwith that quality is true Napa Valley. WeOurpatio DOWNTOWN - An style grill united and freshness. IL POSTO TRATTORIA - Wefor offer theAmerican traditional italian experience through food, is an ideal spot enjoying a meal with friends (including four-legged friends) and proudly feature salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, steaks, decadent houseWe made menu is locally resourced then cooked with the flair that is true Napa Valley. served in a casual setting inforthe beautifulorNapa Valley. Our menu variety slecfamily. Join breakfast lunch weekoffers - and aour award-winning weekdesserts, andusmore modern pub grub.during the proudly feature salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, steaks, decadent house made tion of antipasta’s, salads, pizza’s withstay freshly pasta dishes. end brunch. Come foralong the food, for made the great wines and artisan gifts! We support desserts, more modern pub grub. local foodand purveyors and locally source our ingredients. 4211 Solano902 Ave, Napa, CA 94559 Main St, Napa, CA 94559 707-251-8600 | www.ilpostonapa.com 707-258-2337 | Napa, www.downtownjoes.com 540 CA 94559 902 Main Street St, Napa, CA 94559
Reserve online| www.downtownjoes.com at NapaGeneralStore.com or by calling 707-259-0762 707-258-2337
NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM THE
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MEDITERRANEAN AMERICAN EATERY SMALL WORLD - A world of flavor awaits at Small World Restaurant, where thebreakTHE GRILL AT SILVERADO, is a one-of-a-kind Napa Valley restaurant, serving menu features the and vibrant of the Mediterranean and theWine Middle East. Falafel, fast, lunch, dinner bar cuisine appetizers. The restaurant features Country Cuisine, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Schwarma, Pita Sandwiches, Garden Salads,Napa, and the emphasizing fresh and sustainable products. Just minutes fromFresh downtown Fresh-Made Baklava. Grill overlooks one of the most beautiful golf courses on earth and offers a respite from the daily routine for everyone who visits. 928 Coombs Street (Downtown Napa), Napa, CA 94559 1600 Atlas Peak|Rd, Napa, CA 94558 | 707-257-5400 | www.silveradoresort.com 707-224-7743 SmallWorldRestaurant.com
AMERICAN CUISINE AMERICAN CUISINE NAPKINS - An American cuisine restaurant with an exciting scene for locals and travelers who happen upon them.Weekend brunch (11 am to 3 pm) andfor onelocals of theand best NAPKINS - An American cuisine restaurant with an exciting scene travelhappy hours in Napa and drink specials 3 to nights the bar ers who happen upon(food them.Weekend brunch from (11 am to73pm). pm) Weekend and one of the best area turns electric with entertainment including live performances and dancing to happy hours in Napa (food and drink specials from 3 to 7 pm). Weekend nights the DJs bar
area turns electric with entertainment including live performances and dancing to DJs
1001 2nd St, Napa, CA 94559 707-927-5333 | www.napkinsnapa.com 1001 2nd St, Napa, CA 94559
707-927-5333 | www.napkinsnapa.com
BEST OF 2019
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SHACKFORD'S KITCHEN STORE is undergoing some changes... Local's say, "I told you so!".
I
n late 2018, The Merkley family took over ownership of Napa’s beloved landmark, Shackford’s. Continuing the tradition of over 60 years of family ownership by the Shackford family of Napa, Alix and Patrick Merkley have committed to preserving the traditions and values that made Shackford’s the Napa icon it is today. Over the last few months, Napa natives have been very vocal about their love of Shackford’s, and most especially, their desire to keep the store exactly the same way that everyone has grown to know and love. There is a multitude of reasons why everyone is so pleased with Shackford's and wants to see it stay the same way it's always been – full of charm, with an extremely knowledgeable staff… and funky!
“There will be some changes, some upgrades, and some routine maintenance. Classic products will continue to be carried in the store, but we will introduce some fun new things to keep up with modern cooking. Some of the aisles might be wider, there will be a kitchen…but with all change, the best will emerge. We bought the store because we liked it the way it was, we believe in the name and we loved the products. Our goal is to continue to serve the culinary equipment needs of both the home cook and professional chef in the Valley.” – Patrick Merkley Group Executive Chef and Owner 104
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Some changes are inevitable, but not all change is bad: • Mr. Shackford has retired, but still visits the store regularly. • Handwritten receipts are gone, and have been replaced by iPads. Everyone misses the paper receipts, but has noticed an increase in the speed of transactions. • All the shelving, which was handmade by Mr. Shackford himself, is still pink. Some of the shelves will be replaced, maybe some of the aisles made wider and some necessary safety enhancements will be made; but wherever possible, the wooden shelves will be repurposed throughout the shop. • Inventory is still rich and varied. The new owners invested heavily in new product during the end of the year, while remaining committed to the classic products customers come in for: Crab picks, sous vide machines, specialty products and standard kitchen tools. • A new kitchen and culinary center is planned with construction slated to start in the next couple of months. This is a big change, but one that opens endless possibilities for community engagement. The new kitchen will bring a vast amount of new features to Shackford's, including: cooking classes, product demonstrations, expert advice, hands-on product testing and much more.
Shackford’s is one of the quirkiest stores found in Napa. It is unique, just like the Valley, and has roots that date back to an older and different Napa. Shackford’s is still a store for the locals. Most of the customers live or work in the area. This is the store where locals connect, Chefs find what they need and tourists stop by for a visit. Yes, there will be changes. No Shackford’s has not closed. Though it may be a different color someday, it won’t lose it Napa Valley heritage. And although Mr. Shackford retired the new owners are actively working in the store. New owners Alix and Patrick Merkley are long time residents of the Valley, have backgrounds in culinary and home design, and want to make the store even better. So yes, change is coming to an iconic store. So patrons can be at ease knowing that they can rely on their traditional Shackford's, with just a little more options and some great additions to help them enjoy their visits. The same commitment to the ideals established by Mr. and Mrs. Shackford remain. As Mr. Shackford always said “My philosophy was pretty simple, give the customers what they want at a fair price.” This is pretty sound advice, which The Merkleys are committed to following.
a GOOD blend Of SOnOMa LIvInG
Stylish residences inspired by Sonoma living and sustainability. Two new communities. One Santa Rosa way of life.
Single-Family Residences | Quick Move-In Opportunities | LiveSantaRosaCV.com
FOX HOLLOW
RESERVE
1,568 to 2,485 Sq. Ft. Up to 5 Bedrooms & 3 Baths From the High $500,000s (707) 210-4926
2,570 to 2,910 Sq. Ft. Up to 6 Bedrooms & 4 Baths From the Mid $700,000s (707) 321-5630
All renderings, floor plans, and maps are concepts and are not intended to be an actual depiction of the buildings, fencing, walkways, driveways or landscaping. Walls, windows, porches and decks vary per elevation and lot location. In a continuing effort to meet consumer expectations, City Ventures reserves the right to modify prices, floor plans, specifications, options and amenities without notice or obligation. Square footages shown are approximate. Broker/agent must accompany and register their client(s) with the onsite sales team on their first visit to the community in order to be eligible for any broker referral fee. Please see your Sales Manager for details. Š2018 City Ventures. All rights reserved. BRE LIC # 01979736.
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2016 R E S E R V E S E L E C T I O N CAB E R NE T S A UV I GNO N
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Luxurious. Experiential. Theatrical. Sustainable. Napa’s most diverse and dynamic destination, dedicated to inspiring passion, creativity, and discovery. R AY M O N D V I N E Y A R D S .C O M
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