Napa Valley Life Magazine - Spring 2021 Issue by napavalleylifemagazine

SPRING 2021

PLUS+

The Ghost of Autumn Taking Napa by Storm Diamond Mountain AVA Diminutive & Dynamic Rosé: Napa Valley's Pink Sunshine Carmel California's Seaside Hamlet

When the world changes, rely on When theus world changes,

When the world changes, rely on on us us rely

We can provide customized, comprehensive advice an We can provide customized, comprehensive advice and guidance to help you stayand onpursue trackyour and pursue your g guidance to help you stay on track goals. and We can provide customized, comprehensive advice Callusme tohelp it through. Call to talk ittalk through. guidance to you stay on track and pursue your goals. Call me to talk it through.

The Gonzales Group TheGonzales Gonzales Group The Eric Gonzales Group

Eric Gonzales Senior Vice President EricF.Gonzales Senior Resident Vice President Director – Senior Vice President Senior Resident Director Wealth Management Advisor Senior Resident Director – 707.254.4606 Wealth Management Advisor eric_gonzales@ml.com

707.254.4606 eric_gonzales@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Merrill Lynch Wealth Management RiverfrontMerrill Lynch Wealth Management Riverfront 700 Main Street Riverfront Suite 200 700 Main Street SuiteMain 200 Street Napa, CA 700 94559 Napa, CA 94559 Suite 200 707.255.5559 • fa.ml.com/gonzales_group 707.255.5559 Napa, CA 94559 fa.ml.com/gonzales_group

707.255.5559 • fa.ml.com/gonzales_group

Merrill Lynch, Merrill Lynch,Pierce, Pierce,Fenner Fenner&&Smith SmithIncorporated Incorporated(also (alsoreferred referredto toas as“MLPF&S” “MLPF&S”or or“Merrill”) “Merrill”)makes makesavailable availablecertain certaininvestment investmentproducts productssponsored, sponsored,managed, managed,distributed distributedor orprovided providedby bycompanies companiesthat thatare areaffiliates affiliatesof of Bank of America Bank of AmericaCorporation Corporation(“BofA Corp.”). (“BofA Corp.”).MLPF&S MLPF&Sisisaaregistered registeredbroker-dealer, broker-dealer,registered registeredinvestment investmentadviser, adviser,Member MemberSIPC SIPCand andaawholly whollyowned ownedsubsidiary subsidiaryof ofBofA Corp. BofA Corp. Investment Investmentproducts: products: Are Are Not Not FDIC FDIC Insured Insured Are Are Not Not Bank Bank Guaranteed Guaranteed The TheBull BullSymbol Symbolisisaaregistered registeredtrademark trademarkof ofBank of America Bank of AmericaCorporation. Corporation. © ©2020 2020Bank of America Bank of AmericaCorporation. Corporation.All Allrights rightsreserved. reserved. 02

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

May May Lose Lose Value Value

MAP3016351 MAP3016351||AD-06-20-0339 AD-11-20-0161||472522PM-0520 472522PM-0520||06/2020 11/2020

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by c Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

BRICK & MANTEL HOME | STAGING | FURNITURE | DESIGN

E X PAN DE D S H OW R OOM N OW OP E N

www.brickandmantel.com | 707-927-3652 2325 First Street | Napa

“ BES T nort h a meric a n winery ” The Discoverer Blog

OPEN DAILY 10AM - 6PM | please call to make an appointment or speak to our concierge Rutherford, Napa Valley | 707.963.3600 | PEJU.COM

Contents

F E AT U R E S / / S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

Story 30 Cover The Ghost of Autumn:

An Unquenchable Spirit

Valley’s Varietals 42 Napa Rosé Style Wines for All Occasions

Viticultural 50 American Area (AVA) Series Diamond Mountain: Diminutive, Yet Dynamic

66 Take a Side Trip

Captivating Carmel-By-The-Sea

N A PA VA L L E Y L I F E M AG A ZIN

SP RIN G 20 21

PLUS+

The Ghost of Autumn Taking Napa by Storm Diamond Mountain AV Diminutive A & Dynamic Rosé: Napa Valley's Pink Sunshine Carmel California' s Seaside Hamlet SPRING 2021

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

NVL contents NV Scene • 12

What's Been Happening Around Town

Things To Do

18 Calendar of Events 19 Inside Track: What the Locals are Doing 20 Pickleball: Napa Valley's Fastest Growing Sport 22 A Day at the Oxbow: Napa's Culinary Marketplace

D E PA R T M E N T S / / S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

What’s Hot • 26 Special Features

36 A Tribute to Napa Legend Steven Spurrier

Drink

34 California Brandy House 38 Falcone Family Vineyards 40 Castellucci 41 Baldacci Vineyards 46 Share a Splash 53 Vineyard {511} Wine and Winemaker Spotlights 48 Elan Fayard: Azur 54 Wallis Family Estate 55 Diamond Mountain Vineyard

Eat

56 Napa's Best Fried Chicken and Wings 60 Cooking with Karen Crouse

Play

62 Napa Valley Country Club

Real Estate

70 The Joel Toller Team

People & Art

72 Featured Artist: Quinn Saine 73 Napa Valley's Fine Art Scene 76 di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art

Shop Local • 78 79 Sugar+Lemon 80 Airocide

Health & Wellness

82 Abide: Napa's Cannabis Sommelier

Money & Wealth

84 Merrill Lynch: Health & Aging

Dining Guide • 86 6

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

73 78

Elegant Elegant Angwin Angwin Home Home Already Already Under Under Contract Contract Elegant Angwin Home Already Under Contract

When When it comes comes to selling to selling your your Valley Napa Valley property, property, you you just 6 just seconds 6toseconds to capture to the attention theofattention of online of online When it comes toit selling your NapaNapa Valley property, you havehave just 6have seconds capture thecapture attention online shoppers shoppers as they asclick, they click, click, through click through available available properties. properties. Jennifer Jennifer Klingbeil Klingbeil uses her uses degree her degree in Advertising in Advertising shoppers as they click, click,click, clickclick through available properties. Jennifer Klingbeil uses her degree in Advertising to create to create property-specific property-specific marketing marketing plans, plans, targeting targeting the right thebuyers right for your forhome. your She and She her and team her showcase team showcase to create property-specific marketing plans, targeting the right buyers for buyers your home. She home. and her team showcase the best theassets best assets of your ofproperty yourwith property with interior with interior design/staging, design/staging, professional professional the best assets of your property interior design/staging, professional photography, photography, and creating and creating curb appeal curb appeal to front and front back andyards. back Call Call set up to set up photography, and creating curb appeal to front andtoback yards. Call yards. to settoup an appointment an appointment and how see and how tohow make to your make property your property stand out stand from out the from pack. the pack. an appointment and see to see make your property stand out from the pack.

Jennifer Jennifer Klingbeil Klingbeil | Lic.# 02067543 | Lic.# 02067543 | m 707.492.0435 | m 707.492.0435 | NapaLifeProperties.com | NapaLifeProperties.com Jennifer Klingbeil | Lic.# 02067543 | m 707.492.0435 | NapaLifeProperties.com

Sotheby’s Sotheby’s International International Realty is a registered ® is a registered trademark trademark licensed licensed to Sotheby’s toInternational Sotheby’s International International Realty Affiliates Realty Affiliates LLC. LLC. Sotheby’s International Realty ® is a®Realty registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s Realty Affiliates LLC. Each IsOffice Independently Is Independently Owned and Operated. and Operated. EachEach OfficeOffice Is Independently Owned and Owned Operated.

NVL editor's letter

Spring Forward S

pring in Napa Valley is a transformative time of the year as Mother Nature dazzles our surroundings with signs of new life. From the first buds that break among the verdant young vines lined with rows of bright yellow mustard to the buzz of activity of people being out and about enjoying the sunshine, the valley is abundant with new beginnings. This Spring, the revitalization is a significant change after a challenging year of staying apart and, for the most part, inside. There is not only new life in our midst, but fresh hope and excitement as wine country reclaims its vivacity. Our cover story featuring the spiritous threesome behind The Ghost of Autumn Wine serves as the perfect muse to celebrate the season’s vitality. Siblings John and Steven Arrambide and Bradly Tyner share how their “why not” attitude and community spirit were instrumental in their catapult to Cabernet cult stardom. Learn how these long-time friends and Napa natives embraced the unexpected and created their own market opportunity without taking things too seriously. Take a walk on the wild side and read about Diamond Mountain in our featured AVA series. Home to fewer than 20 small wineries, this small AVA is coveted for its mineral-rich soil and rugged terrain, which produce wines that are intense, concentrated, and ageable—and some of the best in Napa Valley. What is Spring without a tribute to Rosé, Napa’s pink sunshine? Our varietal series focuses on Rosé, its booming popularity in California, and where to find some of Napa Valley’s best producers. Created from an interesting variety of grape types and styles, whether it’s sparkling or still, when it’s time to drink pink, it’s always a refreshing proposition. Lastly, put down the top and take a side trip to visit Carmel, California’s hamlet by the sea. The home of Pebble Beach, great shopping, and a myriad of award-winning restaurants and wines, it is the perfect time of the year to take a ride down the coast for some fresh air, fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean, and an outstanding assortment of epicurean pleasures.

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Cheers to New Beginnings,

Laura Larson Editor

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT:

www.napavalleylife.com 8

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

This year at Bardessono, we're focusing on Mindfully Living Luxury. Wellness: with curated spa treatments each season Culinary + Wine Education: with adventures that focus on the garden, what's growing right now, and how sustainability can be incorporated into the products you eat. Luxurious Sustainability: providing the most luxurious Napa Valley experience within a sustainable environment.

Exceptional

( 707 ) 204 - 6000 BARDESSONO.COM

by NATURE

Savor the destination and the moment with those that are most important to you. Keep what's most precious to you close and enjoy the feeling of being at home in our wine country destination. Let romance take over with our various couples treatments, a private picnic specially packed for a day of adventure, or a romantic evening in with a candlelit dinner served on your private patio.

( 707 ) 9 6 7 - 7 9 0 0 H OT E LYO U N T V I L L E . C O M 6 4 6 2 WA S H I N G TO N S T R E E T YO U N T V I L L E , C A 9 4 5 9 9

6526 YO U N T S T R E E T YO U N T V I L L E , C A 94599

Quintessentially YO U N T V I L L E

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal EDITOR Laura Larson laura.larson@napavalleylife.com

1300 1s t #385 s tree t napa, ca 94559 (707) 501-4444 eikosnapa.com

Take Out - Curbside - Delivery T H A N K YO U N A PA VA L L E Y

ONLINE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA Cecile Adams cecile.adams@webmediagroup.com ADVERTISING/SALES Doris Hobbs – 209-207-4876 doris.hobbs@napavalleylife.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Fran Miller Laurie Jo Miller Farr Layne Randolph Elizabeth Smith Marisa McCann Valerie Owen Christopher Sawyer CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Art & Clarity - Lowell Downey and Janna Waldinger Bob McClenahan ABOUT THE COVER Ghost of Autumn Proprietors Bradly Tyner, John & Steven Arrambide and label artist Danasabe Mohammed at Alston Park Photo by Bob McClenahan

Napa Valley Life Magazine is published six times a year. We have four quarterly publications and two annual publications. 1370 Trancas Street # 770, Napa, CA 94558 Copyright 2021 by Napa Valley Life Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Subscriptions

t a k e o u t c u r b s i d e napanoodles.com d e l i v e r y p a t i o s e a t i n g (707) 492-8079 10

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

are available at $12/year by visiting napavalleylife.com and clicking on subscriptions at the top.

Twitter: @napavalleylifem

Facebook: NVLife

Made for more walks

You were made for more. More affection. More love. More of the great outdoors. That’s why the Coon Joint Replacement Institute at Adventist Health St. Helena is known for blending safety with state-of-the-art orthopedic advancements. In fact, our orthopedic experts’ methods allow most patients to be up and walking just hours after surgery. We even offer free concierge service to help you navigate appointments and insurance. So you never miss quality time with your best friend.

NV scene

NV Scene

The Napa Valley scene and what's been happening around town. YOUNTVILLE INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL For the very first time, the 4th Annual Yountville International Short Film Festival (YISFF) was hosted virtually in this year’s Special Home Edition from February 11 – 15, 2021. Sponsored by the Town of Yountville and its world-class lodging establishments, and inspired by the annual Jessup Cellars Art House Short Film Series (Jan - March), the YISFF featured an incredible lineup of imagination-stretching short films from across the globe, shown over four days. The event included 16 dedicated screening blocks with over 80 world-class short films from animation to suspense to fantasy and science-fiction and the best in drama and foreign film selections. It also included filmmaker Q&A sessions that offered behindthe-scenes stories of the filmmaking process. New to 2021, the festival featured musical performances by special musical guests, The Gold Souls, Cary Brothers, and Keaton Simmons. // yisff.com

1,2,3 All Eyes On Me Directed by Emil Gallardo

Yountville Chamber President and CEO, Whitney Diver McEvoy hosted the film blocks

Cary Brothers

Keaton Simons

Cinthya Cisneros of La Cheve

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

DAVID starring Will Ferrell Photo by Andre Lascaris

Jessup Cellars wine and popcorn pairing

WINETR AIN.COM | 80 0.427.4124 | NAPA , CA

NV scene

Zach Williams hosting from Nashville

Salvation Army Board Member Don Wild hosting with Chefs Paul Fields and Eric Magnani

CHEFS TO THE RESCUE!

February 25th, 2021 marked the inaugural CHEFS TO THE RESCUE! virtual event in support of the Napa Salvation Army Culinary Training Academy. Named for the dedicated efforts Executive Chef /CTA Director Paul Fields and the Culinary Training Academy students put forth to prepare and distribute over 160,000 meals to Napa residents and frontline workers during the pandemic, the first-time event garnered nearly $200,000 in donations. The evening, led by master of ceremonies, Don Winter, featured both a pre-event gourmet to-go-box dinner experience and a live Napa to Nashville culinary demo with Executive Chef Paul Fields and special guest Grammy-award winning singer and songwriter, Zach Williams. Williams broadcasted from his home in Nashville and shared his life’s journey of hardship, redemption and giving back while cooking his own version of shrimp and grits. The fundraising portion of the night featured entrepreneur and showman Jean-Charles Boisset of Boisset Vineyards, who donated the night’s only live auction lot, which raised an additional $11,000. // napa.salvationarmy.org/napa/ napa-valley-culinary-training-academy

CTA's Tuscan Beef and Polenta

Salvation Army's Heat and Serve Tuscan Beef Dinners

CTA Graduate Matthew Rivard, Chef Eric Magnani, CTA Director and Executive Chef Paul Fields, Julie Fields and Don Winter

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Executive Chef and CTA Director Paul Fields and Chef Instructor Eric Magnani

Zach Williams' Shrimp and Grits

SPRING 2021

NV scene 4TH ANNUAL NAPA VALLEY BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION

The 4th Annual Napa Valley Black History Month Celebration took place virtually on February 20th as an opportunity for Napa Valley community members to celebrate Black History as American History and highlight the experiences of Black community members in the Napa Valley. With the support and active participation of the Napa Community, the celebration was organized by James “JT” Thompson, Anne Sutkowi-Hemstreet (director of Rainbow Action Network), and Jeni Olsen (Prevention Director at Mentis) and included a Children’s Story Time hosted by First 5 Napa County and Rainbow Action Network, a teen panel discussion about Growing Up Black in Napa hosted by Teens Connect/Mentis, and a learning session on How to be Actively Anti-Racist with local resources for getting involved. Buster’s Original Southern BBQ – the only Black owned restaurant in the Napa Valley – donated 250 peach pies for drive through pick up as a culmination to the Celebration. Thompson, Sutkowi-Hemstreet, and Olsen collaborate on efforts throughout the year to make the Napa Valley a safer and more welcoming place for people of all colors, races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, countries of origin, and family structures. They encourage all community members to educate themselves and their children; support local Black owned businesses and Black led organizations; and appreciate Black history and culture all year round. // rainbowactionnetwork.org

Virtual Hosts Anne SutkowiHemstreet, James JT Thompson and Jeni Olsen

DIRECT FROM THE CELLARNAPA VALLEY LIBRARY WINE AUCTION

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Arrow & Branch

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

From February 11-20, the Napa Valley Vintners (NVV) launched their newest auction endeavor, The Napa Valley Library Wine Auction, culminating with a live-streaming online auction on Saturday, 2/21 to enthusiast bidders from all corners of the globe. The auctioneers from Zachys playfully cajoled the nearly 350 wine enthusiasts who tuned in live and brought to life the stories behind the wines. The collection of nearly 100 lots drew interest from approximately 500 online bidders from 12 countries. The auction helped broaden Napa Valley’s reach in emerging and top fine wine markets, including Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Japan, United Kingdom, Denmark, Switzerland, and Mexico. In the US, a strong showing of bidders from 41 states vied to enhance their cellar collections with rare library vintages and bottlings. Hosted in collaboration with Antonio Galloni, nearly 1,000 wine enthusiasts from 28 countries participated in five online, interactive educational sessions that promoted the vast nuances of the Napa region. The live auction raised $933,000, which goes directly toward NVV’s programs to promote, protect and enhance the Napa Valley appellation. Next up is the Premiere Napa Valley barrel auction for the wine trade taking place June 1-5, and an announcement about the replacement for Auction Napa Valley which will benefit the community is forthcoming this summer. // napavintners.com

NV Calendar The Napa Valley scene of upcoming parties, concerts, celebrations and events Event dates subject to change. Please check event websites for current schedules.

Brian Culbertson-Napa Jazz Getaway

February-May

May 28-30

Designed to nurture a lifelong love of music, Novack Concerts for Kids is a free concert series geared toward students, teachers, and families. The Spring 2021 series runs February through May and includes one-of-a-kind performances in addition to enrichment activities with the performers and composers. Highlights of the spring series include SOUNDSHAPES, a musicdriven interactive video game; Compose Her, a music composition and history workshop with composer (and 2019 Miss America titleholder) Nia Imani Franklin; and bilingual meet-the-artist conversations with members of Mexican roots folk ensemble Los Cenzontles and the dynamic chamber orchestra Sphinx Virtuosi. Select programs are available in both Spanish and English. // festivalnapavalley.org/education/ novack-concerts-for-kids/

Blue Note Napa launches its outdoor weekend concert series on the lawn at Charles Krug Winery. The grand opening weekend will feature Grammy winners Los Lobos on Friday, May 28, and Pink Martini on May 29-30. The socially distanced venue will host two shows per night at 6:00 and 9:00 pm and seat 260 people at bistro-style tables for 2,4 or 6 people. Guests may purchase food and beverages on site. The concert series will run through the first weekend in October until the Blue Note re-opens at the historic Napa Valley Opera House. // For tickets and upcoming show schedule: bluenotenapa.com

one-night fundraiser, LOCO-MOTION, into a three-part virtual event series designed to engage the community in its mission towards completing the VINE TRAIL. LOCO-MOTION 2021. Named for its nod to movement, the series begins in May with a “Month of Movement Challenge” in which participants are invited to walk, hike, run and bike on a team or as an individual for 47 miles up to 470 miles. Participants and teams will be awarded on miles achieved and dollar amounts raised. While peer to peer and team fundraising is an underlying component of The Month of Movement, a primary goal is to engage the broader community and provide a fun fitness challenge. // vinetrail.org/locomotion

May- June

– Month of Movement Challenge begins May 1st. Registration is open.

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY NOVACK CONCERTS FOR KIDS

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

BLUE NOTE CONCERT SERIES OPENS AT CHARLES KRUG WINERY

LOCO-MOTION

Join the Fun: The Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition is expanding its annual

– Week of Auctions: June 5 – 12 – LOCO-MOTION Live: June 12

Inside Track June 1-5

NVV PREMIERE NAPA VALLEY

Napa Valley’s best week for the wine trade is back. Premiere Napa Valley is scheduled for the week of June 1 with the grand finale live auction on Saturday, June 5, 2021. At the auction for wine trade professionals, wine retailers and restaurateurs bid on one-of-a-kind wines to offer in their stores, on their wine lists and to their most discerning customers. // To find out where Premiere wines are sold, visit PremiereNapaValley.com. June 9-12

NAPA VALLEY JAZZ GETAWAY

Join Brian Culbertson and friends for Napa Valley’s 9th Annual Jazz Getaway weekend. The three-day concert series main musical events are performed at The Lincoln Center and include a curated itinerary of pre and after-parties where attendees can mingle with the performers and enjoy a series of culinary food and wine experiences, including a dinner at La Toque, premier wine tastings, a silent auction, and wine reception. // For more information and ticket packages: jazzgetaway.com June 12

ART, SIP & STROLL

Celebrate ARTS IN APRIL in beautiful Yountville for this artistic outdoor stroll to celebrate Napa’s local artists. This free art event, featuring over 50+ juried artistsfine art, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry and more-- is spread through the center of town. Art, Sip & Stroll Tasting Packages ($35 optional) are also available and include a glass with six wine tasting tokens to be used at any wine tasting stop plus a signed Guy Buffet ART, SIP & STROLL 2021 poster. Purchase an outdoor lunch onsite and relax in one of Yountville’s park like venues or make reservations to dine at one of Yountville’s fabulous restaurants. // Open 11 am – 5 pm For more information: artsipstroll.com

What the Locals are Doing Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company Both of Napa Valley Roasting Company’s locations serve popular signature coffee blends sourced from around the globe. Beans are roasted in 20 lb. batches four to six nights a week to ensure the highest quality and maximum freshness. The company’s focus on community programs and generous donations to first responders, schools, and service members have endeared them within the community as one of Napa’s favorite local businesses. // 948 MAIN ST., NAPA • 1400 OAK AVE., ST. HELENA • NAPACOFFEE.COM

La Tapatia Market Regaled by locals as the only supermarket in downtown Napa, La Tapatia is small but mighty. Conveniently located on Brown Street, La Tapatia is not only a local market that sells fresh produce and grocery items at great prices, it also touts a formidable meat counter with an in-house butcher who prepares fresh cut meats to order and to sustain the popular taqueria menu, which serves up some of Napa’s best tacos, burritos and tortas for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open every day: 8 am- 8 pm // 504 BROWN ST., NAPA • LATAPATIAMARKET.COM

Mozzarella “al Minuto” One of Napa Valley’s local favorite indulgences is Mozzarella “al Minuto”- a rich, oozy presentation of hand-pulled mozzarella, drizzled in olive oil and served on top of crisp, garlic crostini. Served at Pizzeria Tra Vigne and Brasswood Bar + Kitchen, this simple pleasure has remained popular since its debut at the now-closed Tra Vigne Restaurant in St. Helena. // PIZZERIATRAVIGNE.COM • BRASSWOOD.COM

Osprey Seafood Market Since opening its retail location on Wine Country Avenue in 2002, Osprey Seafood Market has supplied Napa’s residents and restaurants with some of the area’s best quality seafood and highest quality service. The small market carries a wide variety of fresh fish and shellfish to order, along with local crabs and live lobsters shipped in overnight from the East Coast. Locals flock to score their weekly poke bowl specials, and during Dungeness Crab season, the lines wrap around the block. // 1014 WINE COUNTRY AVE., NAPA • OSPREYSEAFOOD.COM

Soda Canyon Store Since its construction in 1946, Soda Canyon Store has been a family affair. Co-owners Bonnie Mott, Gina Ergen, and Kristi-Seitz Banducci, aka “The Three Daisies,” carry their family torches for the local general store, deli, gourmet coffee shop, smoothie bar, wine store, and catering operation on this busy intersection of Silverado Trail. Locals know this is one of the best places to go for its deli specials, artisan coffee & espresso, and a great selection of local vintner labels. Open M-F 6 am-5 pm/ Weekends 7 am- 4 pm // 4006 SILVERADO TRAIL, NAPA • SODACANYONSTORE.COM

NVL things to do

Photo by Joan Azeka

PICKLEBALL

Napa Valley’s Fastest Growing Sport  BY ELIZABETH SMITH

Across many media outlets, pickleball has been dubbed “the fastest growing sport in America” because it is easy to learn, appropriate for all ages, a social activity, and fun. It has attracted celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Serena Williams, and George Clooney. 20

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

hile it is a terrific recreational and social sport for families and friends, it has also evolved as a formidable competitive sport. Governed by the USA Pickleball Association, there are multiple tournaments held each year both within the United States: The U.S Pickleball National Championships, U.S Open Pickleball Championships, and numerous international championships. Pickleball was invented in 1965 by three fathers on Bainbridge Island, Washington – Congressman Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum – as a game for their children to play one summer afternoon

when they were bored. They improvised on an old badminton court with wooden paddles and a perforated plastic ball. After formalizing the rules, which rely heavily on badminton, the game needed a name. It was widely accepted that Pritchard named the game after his dog, Pickles. Pickleball is a hybrid of three sports – tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played on a badminton-sized court with a net separating the two sides, using a paddle-like ping pong and a perforated ball reminiscent of a Wiffle ball. The game employs visual mechanics similar to tennis and is most commonly played in doubles

Photo by Susan Segal

format. An underhanded serve is delivered from one side of the court to the opposite service box, but only the serving team may earn points; the returners must break both members of the serving team before earning the right to serve themselves. The best thing about pickleball is that it is fun. It can be played by people of all ages at any skill level. Outside of a court to play on, the only requirements are an enthusiastic desire to play, and equipment such as athletic court shoes, a paddle, and balls. In Napa Valley, Pickleball is an especially attractive sport since it flourishes year-

Alan Tenscher, Steering Committee Leader // Photo courtesy of Yountville Pickleball

“ Pickleball has so much to offer. It’s a healthy lifestyle with a strong social component.” round due to the temperate Mediterranean climate. It has grown in popularity both in private clubs and on public courts located in the city of Napa and the town of Yountville. There are two public organized pickleball groups supported by the county’s park and recreation departments- Napa Valley Pickleball, led by Chairperson Susan Segal, and Yountville Pickleball, headed up by Alan Tenscher, Steering Committee Leader. The groups often play together. It is also gaining interest in Calistoga and St. Helena. While clinics, tournaments, and Yountville’s indoor courts had to pause during the pandemic, outdoor play is available at Las Flores Community Park in Napa and Vineyard Park in Yountville. All one must do is show up. “There’s a welcoming tradition in pickleball to show new people the game and bring them along to develop the level of skill or aspect of the game that holds their interest,” said Tenscher. Pickleball is easy to learn. Both the Napa Valley and Yountville groups have players willing to teach those who are interested in participating. Those who love competition will enjoy the challenge of learning a new and exciting game. It is also interactive and social, so it easily draws in observers. In fact, many become obsessed with pickleball after a few matches. “I mean, who doesn’t want to have a good time being active and outdoors in the beautiful Napa Valley?” Segal exclaimed. At Las Flores Community Park, there are four courts with dedicated playtimes from

8:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Yountville’s Vineyard Park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset seven days a week, where there are four state-of-the-art courts with a player-friendly, regulation-cushioned surface. Weekend mornings are an ideal time to attend and get a feel for the game or to introduce oneself to a local ambassador, group leader, and local players to be assigned a match at one’s level of play. Those who already play pickleball know to bring their own paddle, but local players will often loan paddles to guests without one. Because of the sport’s increasing popularity in such a short period of time, Segal explained it has been challenging to keep up with the demand for courts. This past year the Napa Valley Pickleball

Group teamed up with the Napa Parks and Recreation Foundation to establish the Las Flores Community Park Pickleball fund for the purpose of receiving taxdeductible donations to finance at least two new hard-surface courts with eight dedicated pickleball courts. “Since the development of the fund, we are working towards the goal of getting them with everyone’s support. We hope that eight courts will be enough!” said Segal. When one thinks of Napa Valley, the first activities that come to mind are wine tasting and fine dining. However, pickleball easily complements these experiences. It provides a welcoming, social, and active element to both the local and visitor experiences. Added Segal, “Pickleball has so much to offer. It’s a healthy lifestyle with a strong social component. Napa Valley is world-renowned for its wine. Why not pickleball as well?” FOR MORE INFORMATION

facebook.com/groups/napavalleypickleball // yountvillepickleball.com SPRING 2021

NVL things to do

A DAY at THE OXBOW: Napa’s Culinary Marketplace– To Gather or To Go  BY ELIZABETH SMITH | PHOTOS COURTESY OF OXBOW PUBLIC MARKET (Unless otherwise noted)

Napa’s Oxbow Public Market has served as one of Napa Valley’s revered local gathering places for great food, wine, and local purveyors since its opening in 2007. The 40,000 square-foot space is replete with vendors offering locally produced farm provisions, food, drink, and other culinary delights.

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

ts convenient location on First Street and proximity to the Napa River and Napa River Trail is ideal, offering a lovely locale to spend a day regardless of the weather. Sunny days beg for picnicking at the Oxbow Preserve or Oxbow Commons with the day’s shopping treasures. Mornings at the Oxbow are not complete without visits to The Model Bakery and Ritual Coffee Roasters. Their enticing aromas of baked goods and coffee cannot be denied. Patrons of The Model Bakery may savor freshly baked bounties such as the famous English muffin sandwiches, baguettes, cookies, and pastries at a picnic table out front. Ritual’s rich coffees, latte, mocha, nitro cold brew, or hot chocolate are made to order to sip in the communal dining area. Those searching for healthy alternatives will enjoy the 100% organic juice bar at Hudson Greens and Goods or C Casa’s “Mexican reimagined” organic breakfast plates, scrambles, tacos, and tostadas. As the market reopens post-COVID, stroll through the marketplace to explore some of Napa’s local tastes. Anette’s Chocolates sells sweet treats such as beer brittles, creams, nuts, salted caramels, truffles, and wine chocolates and sauces, available individually or as gift boxes and sets. Kara’s Cupcakes, “The San Francisco Sweet,” shares its legendary lineup of one-of-a-kind, small-batch cakes, cupcakes, cookies, marshmallows, and sauces. For cooking enthusiasts, The Olive Press is the go-to for items such as 100% California extra virgin olive oils, tapenades, and vinegars, while Whole Spice offers an extensive range of international mushroom powder, salts, and spices. Napa Valley Distillery is a “cocktail enthusiast’s paradise,” offering complimentary educational tastings of their locally made spirits and bitters, as well as bottled cocktail ingredients and spirits to go. The Oxbow is also home to one of the three locations of Napa Bookmine, a locally owned and operated independent bookstore. Within its space, one will discover books for all ages and gifts such as greeting cards, Olive and Poppy jewelry, and socks. Of particular interest to both locals and visitors interested in the outdoors is Obi Kaufmann’s field guide to The Forests of California, featuring watercolor maps and trail paintings. Lunchtime at the Oxbow bustles with mouth-watering menus that offer something for everyone. While most places that serve lunch also offer dinner, some crowd favorites include El Porteño’s delectable selection of handstuffed empanadas, C Casa’s rotisserie meat tacos and salads, Live Fire’s wood-fired pizzas, and Gott’s Roadside, whose burgers are lauded as some of the best in Napa Valley.

Hudson Ranch Green and Goods

C Casa

Ritual Coffee

Inside the Oxbow Market

SPRING 2021

NVL things to do

Eikos at Oxbow

Fieldwork Brewing Co.

Hog Island Photo by Remy Hale

Oxbow Wine and Cheese Market

It would not be a day in Napa Valley without a great happy hour, and the Oxbow has several locations to consider. Bar Lucia is known for its plethora of still rosés for every palate, sparkling wines, frosé, appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. Oxbow Wine and Cheese Merchant offers cheese and wine to go and onsite wine and cheese flights, charcuterie, and draft beers. Locals’ Night specials include great deals on wines by the glass and cheese plates. Fieldwork Brewing Company has a wide range of always-changing beers on tap, which may be enjoyed as sampler flights, by the glass, and to go in cans and growlers. Hog Island Oyster Bar is a local favorite for halfpriced oysters, small plates, and beer specials. After a day of eating, shopping, and imbibing, why not stay for dinner? Some 24

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

great options include handcrafted sushi or poke from Eiko’s, Hog Island Oyster Company’s raw Sweetwater or barbecued oysters smothered in chipotle bourbon butter, or Chef Todd Humphries’ eclectic global menu at The Kitchen Door, featuring his famous Teriyaki chicken wings, pho, or cream of mushroom soup. When ready to depart the Oxbow, one should take with them premium groceries and meats from Hudson Greens and Goods, which has some of the area’s freshest produce, pantry staples, and chilled Hudson Vineyards wines. For meat lovers, Five Dot Ranch and The Fatted Calf cannot be missed. Five Dot is a seventh-generation cattle ranch and butchery that offers local, all-natural, non-GMO,

As the market reopens post-COVID, stroll through the marketplace to explore some of Napa’s local tastes. pasture-raised beef, as well as an All Day Eats menu featuring a Baby Iceberg Wedge, Ranch Burger, Cali Cheesesteak, and an FDR Beef Hotdog. The Fatted Calf is a butchery/charcuterie that also offers accompaniments like beans, pasta and vinegars, and live butchery demonstrations. Check the website to learn about Locals’ Night specials and how to access OxBucks coupon books, which can be redeemed at any Oxbow merchant. Open seven days a week (excluding major holidays) from 7 am - 9 pm FOR MORE INFORMATION

610 and 644 First St., Napa // oxbowpublicmarket.com

ATLAS PEAK ESTATE GROWN and BOTTLED BOUTIQUE, SMALL PRODUCTION PRIVATE TASTING TOURS

by appointment only

Capturing the mystique of Spring Mountain District wines since 1999. To inquire call 707.967.8340 or visit www.terravalentine.com

V I N R O C N A PA .C O M 4007 S pring M ountain r d . S aint H elena , Ca 94574

SPRING 2021

NVL what's hot

Imagination on Fire Erik and Brittany Hangman gained notoriety within the Napa food truck foodie community when they took their popular catering and event company, Imagination on Fire, to the streets. Named after their open fire cooking concept, the trailer specializes in fried chicken sandwiches and smash burgers served with a choice of a homemade sauce- Buttermilk Ranch Dressing, Honey Gold BBQ sauce, or Spicy Pink Sauce, to accompany each meal. The Instagram-worthy sandwiches are the first phase of the Hangman’s plan to bring something different to Napa’s growing food truck scene. Their following has grown to sell-out popularity, and the duo has big plans to expand in the future to “keep things exciting and new.” FOR MORE INFORMATION: imagination-onfire.com

Photo courtesy of Meritage Resort

Picnics in the Vineyard at Meritage Resort Napa Valley is known around the world as a mecca for lovers of wine and gourmet food. Experience the spirit of wine country with a private 2-hour picnic amongst Meritage Resort’s 9-acres of hillside vineyards. Gourmet picnic fare such as cheese and charcuterie, artisan sandwiches, chips, popcorn and fresh baked cookies are available to order and can be supplemented with a local selection of sparkling and still wines. Available for parties of one to six. FOR MORE INFORMATION: meritagecollection.com

Photo courtesy of Ace & Vine

Photo Courtesy of Imagination on Fire

Ace & Vine Ace & Vine launched downtown Napa’s first casino with its own gaming license in mid-February in the former Compadres location on Lincoln Avenue. The new late-night space features six nano doors, an indoor-outdoor gaming room that hosts games such as Baccarat, Blackjack, and Poker. “High Rollers” have access to The Dragon Room, a dedicated space with VIP accoutrement, lockers, and more. The location made use of its spacious 4500 square-foot deck by adding a world-class restaurant, The Deck, where guests can enjoy delicious food and entertainment beside comforting fire pits overlooking the Napa River. Open Sunday-Wednesday 8 am-2 am and Thursday-Saturday 8 am-4 am FOR MORE INFORMATION: 505 Lincoln Ave, Napa // aceandvine.com

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

No Anesthesia • No Incisions • No Downtime • Instant Results

Swor-Yim Aesthetics L. Britt Swor-Yim, M.D. Certified YLIFT® Provider

DRAMATIC & Instant Results that last! • Cheekbone Accentuation • Jawline Definition • Upper Neck Improvement

Y Not You? Aesthetic Medical Practice Specializing in Botox & Fillers

By Appointment Only • info@drsworyim.com • www. drsworyim.com N O W O F F E R I N G A W I D E VA R I E T Y O F I V V I TA M I N S 7 Walkabout Ln. Napa, CA 94558 (415) 596-1075

3247 Browns Valley Rd. Napa, CA 94558 (415) 596-1075

300 Harding Blvd. #105 Roseville, CA 95678 (916) 206-8055

1111 Exposition Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95818 (916) 206-8055

156 East Napa St. Sonoma, CA 95476 (415) 596-1075 SPRING 2021

NVL what's hot

Legit Provisions

Photo courtesy of Rory's Bakehouse

St. Helena welcomed Kierston Firquain, also known as “Chef K,” and her farm-to-table micromarket concept, Legit Provisions, in January 2021. Located in the former Cook Tavern space on Main Street, the operating model is focused primarily on convenience, offering grab and go style Kansas City-style barbeque, self-serve beer & wine, and prepared meal kits. Legit Provisions launched a VIP club to integrate with the local community, which is limited to 100 members. Benefits include 10% off all purchases, a complimentary drink each week, a welcome box with fun swag, and future member-only events such as Chef hosted dinner parties and wine and beer tastings. Open 11 am- 7 pm (subject to change based on seasonality) FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1304 Main St., St. Helena //

legitprovisions.com

Photo Courtesy of Legit Provisions

Rory’s Bakehouse Rory Kandel, a trained baker from New York, fulfilled her lifelong dream to start a baking business after COVID impacted her job in the hospitality sector. Her baked goods are freshly prepared and then frozen and packaged to be baked-at home to ensure optimal freshness and flexibility for her customers to enjoy the goodies when they are ready to eat them. She feels her cookies, biscuits, and yeasted breads taste even more delicious when they are pulled fresh from the oven, and their scents can be enjoyed wafting through the kitchen. Her weekly menu is announced every Sunday by email and social media, and items are available for delivery or pick up on select days at Shackford's in Napa and Cook in St. Helena. FOR MORE INFORMATION: rorysbakehouse.com

Andaz Artists This spring, Andaz Napa opened its outdoor terrace to host its al fresco live music series, Andaz Artists. Enjoy great music, handcrafted cocktails among cabanas and crackling firepits as talented musicians from the Bay area play a collection of covers and original songs every Wednesday and Saturday night from 5- 10 pm. FOR MORE INFORMATION: hyatt.com/napa //

1450 First St., Napa

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM Photo28 courtesy of Andaz Napa

THE ONLY THING THEY TAKE SERIOUSLY

WINE is the

The Ghost of Autumn’s Unquenchable Spirit  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

| PHOTOS BY BOB MCCLENAHAN

The Spa at The Estate Photo by Will Pryce

Danasabe Mohammed, John Arrambide, Bradly Tyner and Steven Arrambide

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

“ When everyone is making a right, we’re going left,” said Bradly. “Not having a clue is a part of the magic. We know that the only thing we’re running out of in Napa is bad wine, so let’s emphasize the stories and art.”

he questions are many, and the answers come fast — all of them rich in storytelling details. Where did the Ghost of Autumn originate? What’s behind the creativity of combining art, hospitality, the use of mixed-media and commissioned art pieces, and great wine? When did the three founders meet? What does the name mean? And how does a new brand tackle a Diamond Mountain Cabernet for its debut? For anyone who knows Bradly Tyner and brothers John and Steven Arrambide —and many natives of Napa do — it’s clear that the story behind The Ghost of Autumn is a reflection of their infectious enthusiasm and splendid gift of repartee. In a nutshell, they figured, “Why not us?” The threesome is behind the niche wine brand, an overnight sensation that’s taken Napa by storm. “When everyone is making a right, we’re going left,” said Bradly. “Not having a clue is a part of the magic. We know that the only thing we’re running out of in Napa is bad wine, so let’s emphasize the stories and art.”

IN THE BEGINNING The Ghost of Autumn wasn’t conceived until February 2019, so by Napa Valley standards, it’s just a babe. However, this trio are born-and-bred locals, so they’ve long had the essence of Napa running through

their veins. Former classmates at Vintage High School, each of them struck out into the hospitality and service industry, and particularly in these pandemic times, that’s a pedigree they honor and respect. “Although we had never worked together, we inherently trusted one another, and each one of us knows the high standards of Napa Valley.” The search for a brand name was on. Bradly recounted the “Aha” moment that hit him while visiting the Napa Art Show. “Autumn was a service dog I received to assist me because of my military service. She had passed away before the art show,

hence the ‘ghost’ of Autumn.” The name’s relationship to harvest is obvious, but not wanting to steal the thunder, Bradly was a bit reticent. “When you drink a bottle of wine, you’re drinking the ghosts of that harvest. What’s left of that vintage is in the bottle. That’s a pretty cool thing,” said Steven. And so, TGOA was duly christened.

THEN, SERENDIPITY ENTERS “Diamond Mountain, are you kidding me?” was pretty much the lads’ reaction when the opportunity presented itself for

Outdoor Bathtub at Bardessono

SPRING 2021

an inaugural release. “We met winemaker Fernando Candelario through Bradly’s family. He had been planning to use the four barrels of 2016 single vineyard Diamond Mountain Cabernet for his own brand but fell in love with our concept and offered it to us,” said Steven. “When you tell people you have a wine company in Napa, it’s like saying you’re a singer in Nashville,” said Bradly. “It’s always, ‘Oh, that’s nice...good luck,’ But

when you tell them you have a Diamond Mountain Cabernet, everyone begins to pay attention.” The attention intensified in November 2019. “We were invited to a live benefit auction for the Boy Scouts because my brother and I were Eagle Scouts, and Bradly served with them in the U.S. Air Force,” explained John. That bottle went for $550, and the exposure wasn’t bad, either.

Vintage House Lobby Photo by Will Pryce

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

WORD-OF-MOUTH TAKES OVER Initially, The Ghost of Autumn wine launch was planned as a gathering for 60 people on a run-of-the-mill Tuesday evening in John’s Napa property. “We were expecting a 20 percent no-show factor, as is common. We fired up the pizza oven, had a chef attend, and parked our wine tour limo out front to help with shuttling people to their cars,” said John. A crowd of 300 packed the place and flowed right out into the backyard. “We knew people were excited to try it, but we didn’t realize that the anticipation was this high. Everyone was taking selfies with our commissioned painting and with the empty bottles. It was a straight-up house party,” said John. Handsomely presented in custom walnut boxes and priced at $225, wine sales were brisk. We showcased our artistic wine labels to the crowd and basically, a release of our wine.”

POWERFUL ARTISTIC PRESENTATION Innovative wine label design is based on an artist’s powerful, personal inspiration put to canvas. The first two commissioned wine labels for The Ghost of Autumn have set the benchmark high for whatever comes next in 2021. For the Cabernet, Nashville-based visual artist Ty Christian flew to Napa, soaked up the scene, and got out his brushes. The captivating result on canvas can be described as an intertwining of multi-ethnic hands holding a single grape to represent the combination of cultures that serve to create the region’s most celebrated product. The next release, a single vineyard 100% Malbec from Chalk Hill just northwest of Alexander Valley in Sonoma, features a label by local artist and hospitality worker Danasabe Mohammed. In a video set to music, we see him standing, facing a blank canvas on an easel in an empty restaurant. He splashes a vibrant red across the canvas to bring the painting to life; when we next see him, he’s a server. Sleeves rolled up on a white shirt, wearing a face mask and a Bottega apron, Mohammed looks deep into the camera as the caption appears, “Hospitality Worker: 2010 - March 2021.” John explained that the server had just been served--with his papers to say he’d been laid off. “Whatever the artist paints, that’s our label,” said Bradly. “And we make what we make. When a specific label runs out, that’s

it; we aren’t going to bottle anymore with that label. It’s like a ghost. It disappears.” And so The Ghost of Autumn had their second label for these 51 cases. Titled ‘The Ascension of Hope,’ the vivid illustration pictures a little boy and a balloon at the moment he’s released it from his fingers. As Mohammed steps out of the frame, the reveal is a powerful moment capturing both the spirit of optimism and frustration shared by those within the hospitality industry, the artist included. Finally, as fans of the brand know, there were handsome custom walnut wood boxes for the wine bottles, each handcrafted by Spring Mountain Case Co. Sadly, in August 2020, that story gained another chapter when the studio making those custom wooden boxes was destroyed in the Glass Fires.

THE ASCENSION OF HOPE Just one year into the surging popularity of The Ghost of Autumn, the mutually supportive world of wining and dining had come to an abrupt halt. As lockdown fell into place overnight, an essential Napa touchpoint had taken a direct hit. The small team recalled, “Our world stopped, and we thought to ourselves, ‘The valley is usually so busy right now. Let’s go and film the emptiness.’” Inspired by a support effort they had observed at PRESS, the St. Helena

restaurant, the team decided to reach out to local restaurants to help hospitality staff who’d been furloughed or laid off. The idea was to donate cases of The Ghost of Autumn wine as a donation program for restaurant patrons of take-out meals to support laid-off workers. And because “we’re into the cinematics of everything,” they artistically captured the distribution of 15 cases of wine on video and called it “The Ascension of Hope.” “Over and over again, this valley has proven its true resilience,” observed John.

“ When you tell people you have a wine company in Napa, it’s like saying you’re a singer in Nashville... It’s always, ‘Oh, that’s nice...good luck,’ But when you tell them you have a Diamond Mountain Cabernet, everyone begins to pay attention.” And then they were off to film their next video—complete with storyline and script, purposefully spilled red wine, and costume changes—in preparation for The Ghost of Autumn 2021 release, still under wraps. FOR MORE INFORMATION

theghostofautumnwine.com SPRING 2021

Welcoming

CALIFORNIA BRANDY HOUSE to Downtown Napa

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR | PHOTOS COURTESY OF E. & J. GALLO – CALIFORNIA BRANDY HOUSE

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

E. & J. Gallo Winery has unveiled a brand-new California Brandy House for brandy lovers and wine lovers looking to try something new.

pened in November 2020, this is the first stand-alone tasting room dedicated solely to luxury California brandies. What’s a brandy house, one may ask? A tasting room and bottle shop in one, there’s a lot to explore at downtown Napa’s newest addition to the First Street.

BRANDY INSIGHTS Unlike French cousins named for the regions like Cognac and Armagnac from which the brands originate, American brandy can come from just about anywhere. And because American brandy doesn’t have the same constraints and regulations as France imposes, there’s more freedom to innovate by combining methods and practices. American brandy may derive from New Jersey apples, Colorado pears, or Oregon plums as a subtle digestif or a key ingredient for a classic cocktail such as a Sidecar or Sazerac. In California, the classic style is made from Central Valley grapes such as Colombard and Chardonnay. “Our California brandies, like Germain-Robin and Argonaut, are crafted from world-class white and red grape varieties exclusively grown on California soil,” said Britt West, Vice President and General Manager of Gallo Spirits, a division of E. & J. Gallo Winery. “These fine brandies are as rich, vibrant, and complex as the land itself. There is no better place than Napa Valley, the heart of wine country, to re-establish California brandy among the world’s best distilled spirits.”

CALLING ALL BRANDY LOVERS Californians account for almost 20% of the total consumption of brandy and Cognac in the United States. Guests discover California brandies through expert-guided tasting flights, and the house also pours limited offerings and single-barrel samples not available anywhere else. Both of California Brandy House’s labels use a wide range of California-grown grapes, from Colombard and Chenin Blanc to Grenache and Pinot Noir.

Cocktail kits available for purchase: Old Fashioned $85 Argonaut Fat Thumb Brandy Argonaut Cherries ● Angostura Bitters ● Stirrings Simple Syrup ● Miner’s Map Cocktail Guide ● California Brandy House Lapel Pin (Limited Time Offer) ● ●

INSIDE CALIFORNIA BRANDY HOUSE The interior space acts as a bottle shop as well as a tasting room. Available for purchase, the Brandy House has three unique cocktail kits for mixing up cocktails at home. Guests can also purchase full bottles of Argonaut and Germain-Robin and have them engraved with a custom message, perfect for gifting or commemorating special occasions. Note that California Brandy House visits are COVID-19 and CDC compliant. To ensure proper social distancing, reservations are recommended. Open Wednesday - Sunday, 12 pm – 7 pm

California Gold Rush $85 ● ● ● ● ● ●

California Boulevardier $85 ● ● ● ● ●

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CaliforniaBrandyHouse.com

Argonaut Fat Thumb Brandy Local Lemons Local Honey Argonaut Cherries Miner’s Map Cocktail Guide California Brandy House Lapel Pin (Limited Time Offer)

Argonaut Speculator Brandy Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro Lo-Fi Sweet Vermouth Miner’s Map Cocktail Guide California Brandy House Lapel Pin (Limited Time Offer)

SPRING 2021

NVL wine

A TRIBUTE TO

Steven Spurrier (1941-2021)  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

When asked how California wines were viewed in France in 1976, Steven Spurrier replied, “California wines were not viewed. California wine did not exist.”

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

(L) Photo by Lucy Pope (R) Photo courtesy of Academie du Vin Library

In his memoir, A Life in Wine, Spurrier describes his introduction to wine at age 13. “ The decanter was moved in my direction. The wine, Cockburn’s 1908, was quite extraordinary, and the impression it left has lasted a lifetime. That was my Damascene moment, the moment when the seed was firmly planted for my life in wine.”

Judges Table, Paris - 1976 Photo by Bella Spurrier

Referring to l’Académie du Vin’s blind tasting he hosted that year at the InterContinental Paris, Spurrier summed up the event a few months ago. “On May 24, 1976, the nine judges chose California wine above the top wines of France. And the rest is history...I should know. I was there.” Surrounded by his beloved family, homegrown Bride Valley vines, and walls covered with art he loved, Steven Spurrier passed away at home in Dorset, England in March. It was just weeks before the 45th anniversary of the landmark event that became known as the “Judgment of Paris.” “The stars were aligned,” said Steven in January during a video conversation with George Taber, TIME journalist who covered the 1976 tasting, and Patricia GastaudGallagher, his colleague at l’Académie du Vin. “We had so much help. We were doing it from the seat of our pants, but we were professionals. We were altruistic and it was all done for the right reasons. It opened the game.”

Steven recently indicated this photo in the vineyard with his dog Maud was a favorite. Photo by Lucy Pope

The world of wine so eloquently shaped by Steven Spurrier will sorely miss him: wine merchant, author, educator, vintner, champion of wine regions all over the world. For Napa, there’s no question about the defining significance of that Monday afternoon in Paris. A permanent sculpture is being commissioned to provide Napa with an everlasting remembrance. As Steven himself put it, “Napa is a beacon. Napa Valley and California are a beacon of quality to wine around the world.”

“ As they swirled, sniffed, sipped, and spat, some judges were instantly able to separate an imported upstart from an aristocrat. More often, the panel was confused. ‘Ah, back to France!’ exclaimed [one judge] after sipping a 1972 Chardonnay from the Napa Valley. ‘That is definitely California. It has no nose,’ said another judge—after downing a Batard Montrachet ’73 [from France].” — George Taber, Judgment of Paris SPRING 2021

FALCONE FAMILY VINEYARDS: NVL wine

Streamlined, Sustainable, Serious-But Never Stuffy

Photos courtesy of Falcone Family Vineyards  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

“It’s just the two of us,” is how John and Helen Falcone described their small passion project just east of Templeton near Paso Robles. Yet, with backgrounds as Napa-based winemakers, the couple brings a solid combined experience of 76 harvests to their endeavors.

t’s a well-choreographed team approach. John is in the vineyard while Helen co-produces the wines and handles the business of bookkeeping, licensing, sales and marketing. Both “chefs” are in the kitchen for the vineyard-first “meat and potatoes” operation producing around 1,500 cases per year.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION At the center of the Greater Paso Robles AVA, the family’s 11 acres straddle two sub-appellations — El Pomar and Creston — where they planted four acres to Syrah and four acres to Cabernet Sauvignon. “We believe great wines always come from great vineyard locations,” John said. He recalls finding this isolated location with the desired sun and wind conditions, ideal climate, and clay-based soil on a hill at 1,200 feet elevation more than 20 years ago. There were unmistakable, compelling similarities in weather history 38

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

to Rutherford and Oakville. Driving back and forth from Napa with a baby in tow, they got busy with piles of U.S. Geological Survey maps and soil analysis, choosing a sweet spot that has been excellent for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon. “Now we’re surrounded by high-end producer’s Cab vineyards,” Helen observed with a glance toward Justin Vineyards planted nearby years later.

SWEAT EQUITY Naturally, it didn’t happen overnight. The land was wide open, non-cultivated. “We brought in electricity, drilled the well, built the deer fence, developed the site from scratch,” said John. “This took years of planning, plenty of sweat equity, and quite some time before the brand became sustainable. But, unlike many small producers, we knew what we were getting into.”

TINY BRAND, BIG COMMITMENT John and Helen pointed out one of the key pillars of differentiation at Falcone Family Vineyards. “There are lots of tiny brands these days, but we are one of the few that actually owns the vineyard and produces wine from the grapes we grow ourselves, giving us the needed control and consistency.” Accolades abound. Take special note of Mia’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, named for the couple’s daughter, a recent graduate in Wine & Viticulture at CalPoly. Tasting notes read, “Aromas of dust & cocoa powder, black cherry & anise with hints of caramel, vanilla & toasted pecans. Ample but soft tannins provide body and a long finish.” One of John’s favorites is Annaté, a nonvintage red blend. “I believe a non-vintage can be even better than a vintage wine,” he declared. Only two barrels are produced—a blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah, and a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon. Select restaurants in Southern California and San Francisco Bay Area feature the wines, although it’s best to shop online, join the wine club, or set up a vineyard visit. FOR MORE INFORMATION

FalconeFamilyVineyards.com

1915

••• Discover the finest and most unique wine storage facility ser ving Napa, Sonoma, and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Rutherford Wine Vault is located in the historic Beaulieu Vineyard champagne depar tment - a meticulously transformed 110 year -old space. The vault features storage solutions for individual wine collectors and small vintners. Each locker is equipped with custom designed seismically independent racking systems, lockable private steel storage enclosures, redundant temperature and humidity controls, and more than five layers of state-of-the-ar t security systems. ••• FINE WINE IS ONE OF LIFE’S GREAT TREASURES. ISN’T YOURS WORTH IT?

•• THE RUTHERFORD WINE VAULT ••

Na p a Va l l e y’ s Pr e m i e r W i n e S t o r a g e Cu r r e ntl y acce pti n g n e w me mbe rs .

| 1 901 Sa int Helena Hw y. | Rut her f o r d , C A 9 4 5 7 3

W W W . R U T H E R F O R D W I N E V A U L T . C O M

NVL wine

CASTELLUCCI

Italian Family History in a Glass

Photos courtesy of Castellucci  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

ntonio Castellucci’s fated San Francisco meeting with another first-generation Italian immigrant— whose family happened to be from the same small Calabrian town as Antonio’s—foretold the fortuity that was in store for him. He had landed in America on the Italian Feast Day of Saint Rita, and the woman he met that day was Rita, his future wife. Fast forward 40 years, during which time Antonio had quietly bought up land in the Napa Valley while building his real estate business in the Bay Area. He did not acquire the property to plant vineyards, although his father Luigi made wine in his basement in Calabria, Italy—he was looking at land as an investment. Over time, Antonio began to make wine for personal use from the vineyards on some properties. By the time his daughter Maria was old enough to choose a profession of her own, those properties were hot commodities. The family realized they owned some choice vineyard property, and Maria jumped at the chance to move her family to wine country and start a business. “I said, ‘let’s do wine,’ and we never looked back,” Maria explained. 40

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Maria is the mother of three, with a fourth due this spring. “My children are only involved in picking and sorting now,” she said, “But I hope the business will stay in the family, even if it is only as a side hobby.” Although she consults with her family “about everything,” Maria spearheads the vineyard operations and wine production. They sell most of their exquisite, highly sought-after fruit to well-known wineries each year, and with the best lots, they produce around 750 cases a year under the eponymous label, Castellucci. Of course, there was no other possible name for the wine. “This is really about an homage to my father,” Maria said. Maria’s admiration for her father is evident in stories she weaves into the conversation. But the business is hers. Castellucci produces four wines, three of which are estate-grown and single-vineyard: Merlot from St. Helena, Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford, and Cabernet Sauvignon from Spring Mountain. They also produce a white wine, “Lucia,” Italian for light. Maria wanted to craft something for a more feminine palate; the white varietal may

change each vintage, but the name remains the same. “The three reds were created because we owned these properties. But Lucia was a personal project of mine,” Maria shared. “The 2017 Chenin Blanc is a Loire Valleyinspired, aromatic white. I didn’t plan on making a single-variety white, but it was so good, I had to.” Award-winning Castellucci Winemaker Jac Cole, formerly with Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, Stag's Leap Winery, and Charles Krug Winery, brought a wealth of expertise to the Castellucci label. “In 2003, I moved to Spring Mountain Vineyard, where I met Maria’s Mom and Dad, and the rest is history.” Beyond wine, those prized real estate assets paid off in other ways. The family business “Castellucci Napa Valley” encompasses wine, hospitality, and luxury rentals at gated estates scattered throughout Napa Valley, most notably, the historic inn The Ink House in St. Helena. FOR MORE INFORMATION

castelluccinapavalley.com

Photos courtesy of Baldacci Vineyards

BALDACCI VINEYARDS It’s a Family Affair

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

handsome logo embellishes six important words, each independently rich with the strength of the brand’s promise. When strung together, the words “Baldacci Family Estate Vineyards Napa Valley” say it all: A genuine, authentic approach to winemaking that’s invested in genuineness, legacy, stewardship, pride, and a sense of place. Baldacci Family: Above all, at this limited production winery, it’s about family. And they make the hard work sound like fun. Picture Tom (in obligatory Bermuda shorts and crocs) riding a tractor through the vineyards accompanied by Beau, the Cab Lab, while Brenda captures stunning vineyard photos. In various roles, four Baldacci sons Kevin, Matthew, Tommy, and Michael, continue to support the family business in every aspect, from vineyard management to winemaker and from social media conversations to ensuring that meaningful in-person guest experiences are delivered. Estate Vineyards: Initially intended to be a real estate investment in 1998, that plan

shifted as the Baldacci’s settled into the natural beauty of Stags Leap Palisades and the wine country landscape. No wonder the property has changed hands fewer than a dozen times since the 1880s. (And how charming that the original founders were Italian.) Everything having to do with winemaking happens right here on the estate where unspoiled views are due to production being below ground. Importantly, a brandnew cave of 17,000 square feet, several years in the planning, will soon make its debut. A new low-slung hospitality center, designed to harmonize with its surroundings, is due to open in May 2021. Visitors will enjoy tours, private tasting rooms, a wine bar, and an outdoor patio to appreciate lovely wine country vistas. There will be cheese pairings from the on-site kitchen and sessions to present the exploration of the shared vocabulary of food and wine. At Baldacci, there’s always an opportunity to taste beautiful wines and hear directly from a winemaker describing the process, but without getting too technical.

Napa Valley: As philosophers and tastemakers know, bigger doesn’t mean better. The diminutive Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District AVA is known worldwide for its outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon. At Baldacci, 9,000 cases in total production include the signature single expression Brenda’s Vineyard Cabernet, a richly textured, fullbodied wine — a classic varietal representing this great growing region. In Calistoga, the warm Stella Knight Vineyard also produces a rich Cabernet. And from the 23-acre Honey B Vineyard in the Carneros AVA, there’s a diversity of casual drinking wines such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Additional portfolio offerings include “Pops,” a sparkling Pinot Noir, as well as Syrah, a Red Wine Blend, and a late harvest Gewürztraminer. Throughout the family’s portfolio, consistency and authenticity comprise the underlying approach. To be sure, there’s humility and gratitude, but no secret alchemy in the Baldacci view of winemaking. FOR MORE INFORMATION Baldaccivineyards.com SPRING 2021

Harvest // Photo courtesy of Rombauer Robert Sinksey Vin Gris ofVineyards Pinot Noir Photo courtesy of Robert Sinskey Vineyards

Drink Pink Rosé Style Wines for All Occasions  BY CHRIS SAWYER

“Pink sunshine” and “freshness in a glass” are catchy phrases Robert Sinskey winemaker Jeff Virnig uses to describe the winery’s latest release of the 2020 Vin Gris of Pinot Noir, a complex pink wine with bright, fruity flavors, crisp acidity, and long dry finish. With a brilliant pale salmon hue, this signature style has become the benchmark for where classy pink wines have come over the past thirty years and one of the many reasons wine lovers flock to Napa Valley in the springtime to get their hands on these energetic young wines before they sell out.

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

he road to rosé’s popularity in Napa Valley did not happen overnight. When Virnig started making rosé in1991, his goal was to create a fun, quaffable, food-friendly wine that added instant excitement to gatherings any time it was served. But at the time, the impression pink wines were making on American consumers was swayed by the sugary imports like Mateus and Lancers, which flooded the marketplace in the late 1960s. When Sutter Home Family Vineyards winemaker Bob Trinchero released their White Zinfandel in 1975, people went crazy for it, but it was still snubbed by serious wine drinkers.

a direct press method with minimal skin contact, each technique creates a different style of rosé resulting in various color hues, levels of acidity, and flavor profiles. Carneros’s Saintsbury Winery was an early producer of rosé, crafting their first release of the Vincent Vin Gris with extra fruit from the 1989 vintage. Today, winemaker Tim Colla picks the grapes at a low sugar level around 22-Brix. He uses a slow whole cluster pressing technique to capture the fruit’s high-tone flavors and ethereal aromatic character. With classic notes of wild strawberry, guava, pithy citrus, and mineral, the wine sells out within a matter of weeks once it’s released. “When it comes

to the Vin Gris, our club members buy by the case, not the bottle,” said Colla. Another success story is the Etude Rosé of Pinot Noir, which is made exclusively with fruit grown at the top of the Grace Benoit Ranch, a dynamic hillside property located on the far western edge of the Carneros appellation. Head winemaker Jon Priest, who joined the team in 2005, refers to this high-elevation portion of the site as the Siberian Vineyard because of its unique combination of chilly maritime winds and dense soils. “For us, the focus is centered on matching the tart and tangy flavors with the natural verve that is always there to create an elegant wine that is fresh, crisp, and leaves you with a mouth-puckering dry finish,” said Priest.

Making rosé wine is more complex than one may think. It requires knowledge of both red and white winemaking components. One of the five Pinot Noir blocks used for Vin Gris at Robert Sinskey Vineyards

As a result, the first few vintages of the Robert Sinskey Vin Gris were sold to wine buyers and sommeliers in New York City, who catered to world travelers that were already familiar with the drier styles of rosé produced in France, Italy, Spain and German. As the years passed, this learning curve gave Virnig and other adventurous winemakers of Napa Valley time to develop special techniques now being used to create various expressions of rosé wines. Making rosé wine is more complex than one may think. It requires knowledge of both red and white winemaking components. Depending on the intended outcome, winemakers employ several different maceration techniques which revolve around the amount of time the juice is exposed to the skin. Whether they bleed off the juice using a process called saignée or use

Grace Benoit Ranch in Carneros

SPRING 2021

McGah Vineyard Grenache Photo courtesy of 601 Cellars

PINK WINE DIVA: HEIDI BARRETT On her way to becoming one of Napa Valley’s most prolific red wine specialists, Barrett developed a passion for playful wines with pink hues when she began crafting a popular dry version of White Zinfandel at Saint Helena-based Buehler Vineyards in the mid-1980s. Today, beyond Prêt à Boire’s seasonal releases and the more delicate Italian-style rosato she makes with Primitivo grapes for her private brand La Sirena, Barrett also crafts an impressive line-up of stylish pink wines for clients. Included on this list is the Paradigm Rosé of Merlot, which offers a unique chance to taste the pure fruit flavors of this famous red grape without oak. Another is the tangy, citrus-driven Lamborn “MaryHana” Rosé, made with Zinfandel grapes

Swanson Vineyards Rosato of Sangiovese

THE ROSÉ REVOLUTION MOVES NORTH As pink wine programs focused on Pinot Noir grapes hit stride at the turn of the millennium, a new wave of European-style wines designed to stimulate, delight, and refresh the palate began to gain traction in the warmer areas of Napa Valley. Today, these young, bright, and thirst-quenching wines are made with a wide range of red grape varieties, such as Grenache, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are deliberately picked early and quickly separated from the skins to capture the fresh, fruity flavors and keep the levels of alcohol and tannins to a minimum. In contrast to the more full-bodied red wines that require time to develop in the cellar and bottle, these spirited young wines offer instant gratification the moment they are introduced in the spring. Although it’s becoming more challenging to find in Napa Valley, at the top of this list is the famous Italian red grape variety Sangiovese. Today it is used to make a series of beloved pink wines from Benessere Vineyards, Miner Family Winery, and Swanson Vineyards, which feature fragrant aromas, ripe flavors, and bone-dry finishes that work wonders when served at casual gatherings throughout the year. To pay homage to the famous French winegrowing region of Provence, Julien and Élan Fayard launched their Azur Rosé d’Or’s first vintage in 2007. As the 44

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

years have passed, Fayard has gained a reputation for mastery of the Provençale winemaking style, as seen in the 2,000 cases of premium rosé wines made with pristine Grenache and Syrah grapes grown in the Sierra Foothills and Rutherford’s prestigious McGah Heritage Vineyard. The McGah vineyard produces just five acres of Grenache for Fayard and a handful of boutique Napa vintners such as Kale, 601 Cellars, and Zuidema Wine Co., all with much acclaim. Grenache and Syrah instill elegance and complexity to rosé wines as found in Prêt à Boire’s annual offering, a luxurious pink wine bottled under the Amuse Bouche label started by John Schwartz and legendary winemaker Heidi Barrett in 2002.

grown at the Lamborn Family Vineyard on Howell Mountain. “To me, these fun wines represent the new Beaujolais of California,” said Barrett. “I like to call them young, fresh, ‘turn and burn’ wines that are ripe, tangy, and approachable the minute they hit the glass.” At the higher end of the scale is Kenzo’s “Yui” Rosé, a dainty yet complex Bordeauxstyle blend made with fruit from the Kenzo Estate off Monticello Road, east of Napa. In Japanese, “Yui” means unity. To Barrett, this wine’s majesty comes through with a unique blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec, which deliver fleshy fruit flavors of strawberry and plum with layers of spice. Although Barrett has been making the Fantesca Cabernet Rosé on Spring

In the spring and summer months, serving these fantastic new styles of dry pink wine is a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Mountain since 2011, the 2020 release played an essential role in saving what would have otherwise been lost vintage due to smoke taint caused by the Glass Fire during harvest. Once the clusters were picked, the clear juice was quickly removed from the skins; fermented; and finished off with a splash of Petit Verdot to add color. The result was a charming rosé that Barrett described as “delicious and clean as a whistle.” In the spring and summer months, serving these fantastic new styles of dry pink wine is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Not only will the wine-savvy applaud being ontrend, but novices will also appreciate the epiphany of discovering a refreshing pink wine that is dry, not sweet.

Enjoying Pink Bubbles

Thirsty for Bubbles? Enjoy world-class Sparkling Wines from your table on our expansive outdoor terrace or from your own home. Visit us at www.domainecarneros.com

10am to 5:30pm daily | Reservations required | 21 and over 800-716-2788 ext 150 1240 Duhig Road, Napa (off Hwy 12/121) 4 miles west of Napa, 5 miles east of Sonoma _____________________________________________________

Napa Valley Life Magazine Voted Best Outdoor Wine Tasting

Until recently, it was rare to find sparkling wines with magnificent pink hues produced outside of the famous Champagne region of France. Thanks to Pinot Noir grapes’ success in the Carneros region, west of Napa, there are now great opportunities to sample worldclass offerings of bubbly pink sensations. “America’s fascination with rosé is unstoppable,” said winemaker T.J. Evans, of Domaine Carneros, who helps divide and conquer with estate-grown Pinot Noir grapes used expressly to make a limited release of the elegant still wine called “Avant Garde” Pinot Noir Rosé, as well as the four separate sparkling wine versions, including Brut Rosé, Late Disgorged Brut Rosé, Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour, and the ultra-premium Le Rêve Rosé. “I remember thinking, ‘When is the bubble going to burst when it comes to pink wines?’ said Evans. “And now it goes on and on, which is a benefit for all of us.” Other elegant, sophisticated, and evocative choices that fit into this category include brut rosé selections from Chandon, Schramsberg, Cuvaison, Artesa, and Mumm Napa. And besides crafting a delightful version of Brut Rosé, Frank Family Vineyards also makes “Rouge,” a brilliant crimson red offering made in the classic méthode champenoise style, which includes more skin contact time with the Pinot Noir grapes and a smaller portion of Chardonnay to add more depth and creaminess to the texture. SPRING 2021

NVL winemaker spotlight

Share a Splash  BY VALERIE OWENS

| PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHARE A SPLASH

ith a venturous spirit and an appreciation for extraordinary wines for every palate and price point, Healdsburg-based Share A Splash Wine Co. is a portfolio brand name encompassing Cannonball, Angels & Cowboys, High Dive Napa Valley, Astrolabe wines from New Zealand, and Twin Vines by José da Maria Fonseca from Portugal. Driven by their mission to share a splash in every glass, the one-of-a-kind wine portfolio has a presence in 47 United States and 30 international markets. Embodying the heart and soul of the portfolio brand through artistic expression lies Head Winemaker Ondine Chattan. Crafting the wines for Cannonball and Angels & Cowboys showcases the versatility 46

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

and strength behind Chattan’s genius. “At Share a Splash, we endeavor to collectively tell a story, share a perspective, and encapsulate that sentiment in a bottle. When you see Cannonball or Angels & Cowboys on the shelf or wine list, we hope that our fun-loving, inclusive, artistic, attainably indulgent point of view is conveyed and entices you to try the wine. In the bottle, our stylistic message is one of distinctive, luscious, juicy, fruit-driven wine laced with the elegance of French oak and framed in refined tannins. It aims to deliver an engaging and gratifying tasting experience as well as extend an invitation to accompany us in the lifestyle and mindset of Share a Splash,” Chattan said. Share a Splash wine co. recently welcomed a new addition to the family.

“ Ethereal and ephemeral, rosé wines are all about being in and enjoying the moment. Our two rosé wines both offer the delicate palate structure, bright fruit, and lively acidity that make rosé so appealing,” expressed Chattan. Expanding on the Angels & Cowboys highly successful Rosé program, Angels & Cowboys Brut Rosé was released to the market late in 2020. Ondine has crafted the Brut Rosé in the traditional Méthode Champenoise, a method that allows a wine to go through a second fermentation inside the bottle producing small, fine bubbles and a creamy mouthfeel. Sourcing traditional Champagne varieties such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier from favorite Northern California vineyards, the resulting wine is crisp and well balanced with red raspberry notes, strawberry, and watermelon. Partnered with the Angels & Cowboys Sonoma County Rosé, the still wine counterpart is made in the Vin Gris style, presenting a full-bodied Rosé with notes of white peach, nectarine, and fresh raspberry. A Grenache-based blend, the stunning Rosé exudes character and elegance. Using the traditional Provençal method, the grapes have minimal skin contact producing a delicate style wine composed of explosive aromatics and vibrant acidity. “Ethereal and ephemeral, rosé wines are all about being in and enjoying the moment. Our two rosé wines, the Sonoma County Angels & Cowboys and the Brut Rosé, both offer the delicate palate structure, bright fruit, and lively acidity that make rosé so appealing,” expressed Chattan. SHARE A SPLASH shareasplash.com

Introducing

Leslie Rosé

FrankFamilyVineyards.com

#GreatWineHappensEveryDay

/frankfamilyvineyards

NVL winemaker spotlight

MINDFUL WINEMAKING: Elan Fayard Finds Her Calling

Photos courtesy of Azur Wines

 BY FRAN MILLER

o be known for one perfect wine might be enough for most vintners. But for Elan Fayard, her acclaimed Azur Rosé is just one of many triumphs, both vinous and personal. The Provencal style dry rosé might have placed the Sonoma native and Francophile on the wine country map, but passion, artistry, and a deep connection to terroir and community fuel a life that is as much about relationships as it is about wine. Fayard first made a name for herself with her 2007 introduction of the elegant Azur Rosé, dubbed ‘America’s Best’ by Vogue magazine. Made with French technique and quality fruit, the wine continues to be a favorite amongst the rosé loving masses. Fans are often surprised to find that Fayard crafts other equally opulent wines under the Azur label, such as limited production Cabernet Sauvignon. And under a new luxury label Empreinte, she crafts allocated, single-vineyard varietals. As owner and director of winemaking for both, Fayard’s goal is to produce wines that allow the characteristics of the land 48

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

and the language of the fruit to be heard – wines that sing of their place. And those places are the Valley’s most coveted vineyards. Access to such high-end grapes is the reward of a stellar reputation and solid grower relationships. It is these sincere connections to those in her community that have led Fayard on another path, one that incorporates wine and wellness. In addition to traditional tastings, she leads what she calls Mindful Tastings, weaving together wine and meditation, directing participants to experience wine not merely via descriptors but also with heightened awareness. Fayard takes her practice of mindfulness a step further with her creation of Luminous Retreats, offering women a safe and sacred space to join in reflection, healing, connectedness, and female empowerment. The restorative retreats (from 1.5-hour sessions to complete weekend itineraries) take place in Napa, and soon she’ll be offering getaway retreats to other locales; wine is optional.

“This is my life’s calling to support women of all ages to live their fullest and highest expression of the life they’re here to live,” said Fayard. “A life of purpose, connectedness, and fulfillment through a great sisterhood.” “Elan is a pioneer for wine industry women,” said friend Monica Stevens of Napa’s 750 Wines. “I love the way she has threaded the Napa Valley, her wine brands, and her retreats in a manner that speaks to the value of women in the wine business, for whom this industry often can be challenging. Elan pulls it all together in such a graceful, beautiful, and profound way, and that’s not easy.” Azur Rose can be found at the Vintner’s Collective as well as by the glass at several Napa Valley restaurants. Azur and Empreinte appointment-only tastings are conducted by Fayard herself and can be scheduled via each website. Napa locals can receive a 10% discount on online wine orders by entering promo code NAPALOCAL at checkout.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Azurwines.com // Empreintenapa.com // Luminousretreats.com

Diminutive Yet Dynamic PA RT

F O U RT E E N

t he

AVA

SE R I E S

DIAMOND MOUNTAIN

DISTRICT AVA  BY FRAN MILLER

The Vineyardist photo is by Julie Elkeshen

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

ising above Calistoga, the steep and rocky Diamond Mountain District AVA draws vintners who desire the vital characteristics that make a Diamond Mountain wine: intensity, concentration, and ageability. “Several notable vintners and winemakers have specifically sought out Diamond Mountain as their winery home,” said Dawnine Dyer, who, with husband Bill, owns Dyer Wine on 2.5 acres within the AVA, where they produce Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. “Cab Franc does beautifully in our soils. It’s very distinct with consistent flavor. Diamond Mountain District wines feature great tannin structure, not big red fruit, like raspberry or blackberry, but lovely blue fruit characters, plum, currant, cherry, fruit flavors with wonderful structure and minerality.”

“What I love about wines produced from the Diamond Mountain District AVA is that they possess the perfect balance between ripeness and freshness,” said Kathleen Ward assistant winemaker at Theorem Vineyards.

is their personal project. “Though small, this region easily justifies its AVA designation,” said Dyer. “The soils are volcanic across the region – well-drained and mineral-rich. The AVA sits between 400 ft and 2000 ft. and benefits from being removed from the valley floor- less extreme heat and effectively frost-free. While there are many different exposures, our vineyard is north west facing and slopes down towards the Valley floor to rocky, reddish, and porous soils.” Named for the volcanic glass and obsidian that sparkles within those soils, Diamond Mountain and its history can be traced to the 19th century when settlers first arrived in the area. The region’s first vines were planted by Jacob Schram (Schramsberg Vineyards) in the early 1860’s. Today, the AVA attracts top winemaking talent at wineries such as Dyer, Wallis Family Estate, The Vineyardist, Vineyard 511, Theorem, Castello di Amorosa, Diamond Creek, Checkerboard, and Constant Diamond Mountain. Wineries that make wine utilizing Diamond Mountain vineyard fruit include Cardinale, Sterling, Hall, and von Strasser. “Without hesitation, the area’s settlers cleared trees, built homes for their families, and began farming the extremely rocky and iron-rich volcanic soil,” said Kathleen Ward, assistant winemaker at Theorem Vineyards, located within the northernmost portion of the AVA. “Those original pioneers laid the foundation for what would become a worldclass winemaking region. I am amazed by the courage and hard work it must have taken to tame this wild and unknown land back

Theorem

At just 600 acres, the northernmost AVA in the Mayacamas Mountains is home to fewer than 20 wineries. Petrified Forest Road defines its boundaries to the north, the Spring Mountain District to the south, the Napa/Sonoma County line to the west, and Highway 29 to the east. “One of the defining features of the Diamond Mountain District is its many small producers making wines from small plots of land,” said Dyer, one of the forces behind the region’s formal 1999 AVA designation. “Each unique interpretation of their specific terroir is exciting.” Dyer and her husband know of what they speak and of what they make. She spent 25 years producing sparkling wines at Chandon, while he served as winemaker at Sterling Vineyards for 20 years. Dyer Wine

The Vineyardist by Julie Elkeshen

SPRING 2021

then. To this day, there are only a few wineries on Diamond Mountain, relative to other mountainous AVAs, a reflection of the rugged terrain here and the fierce determination of those early settlers.” “What I love about wines produced from the Diamond Mountain District AVA is that they possess the perfect balance between ripeness and freshness,” said Ward. “The daytime temperatures on the mountain are reliably warm, helping to develop great flavor and fruit concentration. However, each afternoon, like clockwork, breezes from the coast arrive at 3 pm and begin cooling everything down. This unique climate helps preserve grape acidity, producing wines that have signature ‘mountain fruit’ tannin structure and a long, satisfying finish that keeps you coming back for another sip.” When Dirk Fulton and his wife Becky Kukkola sought property in 1990 to establish their winery The Vineyardist, they gathered a top-notch team of experts, including cult winemaker Mark Herold, and initiated their search on Diamond

winemaker for 12 years until Tony Biagi took the reins. “We kicked a lot of tires throughout the Valley, but we kept coming back to Diamond Mountain,” said Fulton, whose The Vineyardist wines routinely score in the high 90s. "We thought of the area as the new Pritchard Hill; the region was enjoying a renaissance, and we wanted to be part of it. Diamond Mountain’s microclimates, the exposures, the terroir, the steep hillsides, and the soil’s volcanic nature make the vines struggle The Vineyardist property by Julie Elkeshen a bit, resulting in tiny berries with concentrated flavors. We love the somewhat untamed nature of the region. It’s wild Mountain. Fulton and Kukkola had long up here; there is truly something special been fans of wines produced in the region. going on. Our goal was to find a place at They felt lucky to find a historic property which our team of experts over time could on which vineyards initially had been produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. planted in the 1870s. They liked the expoWith the right people, the right plan, a sures and were able to create unobstructed daily commitment to the pursuit of perfecvineyard blocks. They have been farming tion and this amazing terroir, we found that their 120 acres, 24 of which are planted to place here on Diamond Mountain.” vine, since 2000; Herold served as founding

points

A great example of the Diamond Mountain terroir with its ripe, sexy, mineral-laced style, this full-bodied, concentrated 2014 has building tannin, a voluptuous texture, and a great finish. Count me in as a fan. – JEB DUNNICK

Only available online at Vineyard511.com/Store/Library-Wines

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Photo courtesy of Vineyard {511}

A Diamond Mountain District Find

VINEYARD {511}

 BY FRAN MILLER

amed simply for the house number at which its one acre of grapes is located, Ed and Irene Ojdana’s Vineyard {511} is an under-the-radar Diamond Mountain District gem. And with production at a mere 150 to 200 cases annually, devotees of the nano-winery likely prefer to keep their ‘find’ under wraps. But with wine critic Jeff Dunnick bestowing a 95 rating to the winery’s 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon and declaring himself a fan, Vineyard {511’s} anonymity wavers. Rob Lloyd is the winemaker; he brings to his three Vineyard {511} varietals expertise well-honed at La Crema and Rombauer, and with his own Lloyd label. He makes a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon - the winery’s hallmark as well as small amounts of Carneros-sourced Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, each saved for club members only. Lloyd ages the Cabernet for 30 months in 100% new French oak, then another 1.5 years in bottle before release.

“People tend to find us when they are seeking something a bit different,” said Ed. He and his wife Irene founded the winery in 2008 after his retirement as CEO of Experian Interactive, a division of Experian, a leading global information services company. Irene is a retired university English teacher and human resources executive. They joke that their interest in wine is the result of falling-in with the wrong crowd. “Many of our colleagues were very into wine, and we followed suit,” said Ed. He acknowledged that the bigger influence was his 2004 appointment to the University of California, Davis, Executive Leadership Board for the Department of Viticulture and Enology, a position he continues to hold and one that has helped to foster his wine business acumen. Vineyard {511} fans learn of the winery via word of mouth, at public tastings where the Ojdanas are frequent pourers,

or simply by chance meetings with the well-traveled and adventurous duo. John Eliason became a wine club member after meeting the couple on a Belize jungle trek to a Mayan excavation site. “It seems there’s a special combination between Rob Lloyd (I think this is his best work) and Ed and Irene (meet them, and your life is elevated),” said Eliason. “It’s like 1 + 1 = 11; like the Beatles making music up on Diamond Mountain.” “This property has everything we were looking for,” said Irene, who acknowledges the trials and tribulations the region has endured over the past few years. “One of the things we value most is the ongoing spirit of congeniality and cooperation. One of our greatest joys in entering this business is all of the friends we’ve made.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION vineyard511.com SPRING 2021

NVL wine spotlight

Wines That Inspire:

WALLIS FAMILY ESTATE  BY FRAN MILLER

allis Family Estate’s origin story is a bit different from those of other Napa Valley wineries. Though Edward Wallis pilgrimaged to Napa in 1975, like others who would eventually put the winemaking region on the world map, Wallis was simply seeking a bucolic country abode. After graduating from the University of California, wine was the last thing on his mind when, at age 23, he fell in love with his 85-acre Calistoga property and moved to Diamond Mountain Road. He spent two decades as a local real estate developer, raising his family and enjoying the vinous spoils of his chosen home, but with little interest in joining the winemaking movement. And then, in 1997, the ‘wine bug’ finally bit. He and his wife Marilyn planted 13 acres of vines, and initially sold the bounty to wineries such as Ramey, Lokoya, and Duckhorn, before creating their own winery in 2006. “After tasting the superb Cabernet Sauvignon that Ramey and Lokoya were making from our vineyard fruit, we decided to make wine for ourselves and showcase the benefits of our hard work,” said Wallis, who hired the famed Thomas Rivers Brown to take the Wallis Family Estate winemaking reigns. Inspired by his own experiences with the camaraderie that wine invariably creates, 54

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Photos courtesy of Wallis Family Estate

Wallis named and labeled his bottlings to encourage heightened conversation. Seraphin and Denali – both 100% estate Cabernet Sauvignon – boast dramatic labels, silkscreened at Bergin Glass Works in 24 kt. gold and platinum. Each is a work of art, as beautiful as the wines are delicious, and each is surprisingly attainable. Though production is a mere 1000 cases, Wallis makes his wines available in 214 stores throughout 26 states.

He looks forward to opening his historic Calistoga property to guests one day and is currently working on refurbishing and retrofitting a stately stone castle and a carriage house that he inherited when he purchased the land. Originally built in 1906 by Jacques Pacheteau, the castle features stunning views of the valley and Mt. St. Helena, and will eventually serve as the Wallis Family Estate tasting room. The carriage house, designed by W.H. Corlett and used to store wagons in its previous life, was built in the late 1800s. Both buildings are included in the National Registry of Historic Places for The United States. “Selling fruit is vastly different than branding and marketing a finished product,” said Wallis, who, after 46 years in the valley, maintains a vast knowledge of the region’s winemaking history and has many a tale to tell. “Growing grapes is the fun part. Branding and selling is a little different but equally as fulfilling. We look forward to soon welcoming guests to Wallis Family Estate and sharing both the region’s history, as well as the remarkable wines created by our Diamond Mountain District terroir.” WALLIS FAMILY ESTATE

www.wallisestate.com

NVL winemaker spotlight

Photos courtesy of Diamond Mountain Vineyard

Diamond Mountain Vineyard:

A JOURNEY to the TOP  BY FRAN MILLER

iamond Mountain Vineyard, under the stewardship of veteran winemaker Kevin Vecchiarelli and consulting winemaker Paul Hobbs, conveys the essence of this historic property which dates back to 1895. Situated high atop the summit for which it is named, Diamond Mountain Vineyard and its celebrated winemaking team produce estate-grown, single varietal wines that continue to push the boundaries for what Napa Valley mountain wines can be. The property is one of the most exclusive in the valley, featuring a Howard Backendesigned estate with the most spectacular view of Mount St. Helena. Wine collectors seeking a luxury experience with a chance to taste limited production wines available exclusively by allocation are lucky enough to garner access. A visit allows for a front-row seat to the heart of Vecchiarelli's viticulture - a mesmerizing experience that parallels the wines. Stradling the Sonoma and Napa county line, the estate is planted to 45 acres of vineyards reaching a 2200 ft. elevation peak. Its location high above the fog line with extremely well-drained soils has many advantages, including optimal morning sun

and a longer, cooler growing season resulting in bold, concentrated mountain fruit. The rich volcanic soil and a unique microclimate produce Bordeaux-style wines that are powerful yet elegant, with the ability to age gracefully for many years. With an annual production of 1500 cases, Vecchiarelli showcases the unique characteristics of each vineyard block, producing wines from Syrah to single varietal Bordeaux. He is introducing several new wines into their portfolio, such as a Hyde clone Chardonnay and Provence-style pressed Syrah Rosé. Vecchiarelli also creates special bottlings for their loyal collectors, such as a soon-to-be-released Reserve and Single Block Cabernet Sauvignon. Vecchiarelli is aware of the property's unique nature and its ability to produce outstanding fruit and thus outstanding wines. While pursuing his degree in biochemistry, he was recognized by Stag's Leap Wine Cellars for his research of umami compounds in wine and soon after joined their team. He

later joined Grgich Hills Estate for nearly two decades of winemaking when an opportunity with Cirq/Browne Family wines led him to Sonoma County. After a short time as associate winemaker with Michael Browne, Kevin returned to Napa Valley as the winemaker/general manager of revered Diamond Mountain Vineyard. Vecchiarelli appreciates the support and freedom afforded him by Diamond Mountain Vineyard owners Aries Liu and Sai You. With consulting help from Hobbs and the incredible quality of fruit coming out of the estate vineyards, he feels that he has never made better wine. “With just the right amount of stress from the vineyard, just enough barrel to balance structure, and a healthy dose of common sense, I simply make the best wine that I can with a sense of artistry and place,” said Vecchiarelli. “Our vineyard provides everything one could expect and desire of mountain fruit. I just make sure all the details are met.” FOR MORE INFORMATION

constantwine.com

SPRING 2021

B U C K E T L I S T:

BEST

FRIED CHICKEN AND WINGS  BY ELIZABETH SMITH

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Photo courtesy of The Q

The earliest mention of frying chicken can be traced to a fourthcentury Roman cookbook of Apicius. The Scottish were the first Europeans to make an unseasoned chicken dish fried in fat. On the continent of Africa, West African cultures fried seasoned chicken in batter and palm oil. These preparation methods eventually merged in the American South. The first usage of the phrase “fried chicken” appeared in the 1830s, then made its way into cookbooks in the 1860s. The Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, claims to have first offered Buffalo fried chicken wings in 1964. Today both fried chicken and flavored wings are comfort food staples in many restaurants nationwide, including some in Napa Valley, where they have especially flourished during the pandemic. Here are a few recommendations for Napa Valley’s best fried chicken and wings.

AD HOC AND ADDENDUM

EVANGELINE

Chef Thomas Keller showcased his talent for creating buttermilk fried chicken when he opened his family-style restaurant, Ad Hoc, down the road from his French Laundry in Yountville, California, where it was and still is the specialty whenever it is on the menu. Reservations are a hot commodity and quickly sell out once they open for bookings. Based on the chicken’s incredible popularity, Keller opened a carryout stand behind the restaurant, appropriately named Addendum, so devotees could score buckets or pieced meals served with a couple of sides most days of the week. Fried chicken fans attribute the flavorful meat to its 12-hour soak in a brine consisting of lemons, honey, thyme, parsley, garlic, and bay leaves. The skin is crisped to perfection after being dipped in buttermilk and dredged through his trademarked spiced flour mixture (also sold in a pre-packaged mix). The combination of onion, garlic powder, cayenne, paprika, and freshly ground pepper creates the perfect coating to complement the brine. Keller’s frying process, which focuses on when to add each part into the fryer, ensures each tender, crispy piece is flawless. Ad Hoc and Addendum also offer a gluten-free version. During the pandemic, large (13-15 pieces) and small (6-8 pieces) buckets made a frequent appearance on the takeout menu. // thomaskeller.com/adhoc

Evangeline, named after the Henry Longfellow poem, is one of Napa Valley’s hidden gems tucked away up valley in Calistoga. It is known for its consistent approachability, coziness, hospitality, and soulful expression of French-Creoleinspired cuisine. The restaurant began offering its Mary’s Free-Range fried chicken as part of a package for the weekly “Concerts in the Parks” during summers, then as a family-style “Fried Chicken Night,” and part of their brunch menu’s chicken and waffles. The pandemic allowed Evangeline to offer a daily family package that includes macaroni and cheese, potato salad, and baby gem lettuce salad. It is also available as an onsite dinner meal and as a sandwich on the lunch menu. Evangeline’s Photo courtesy of Evangeline

Southside Chicken Photo by Emma K Morris

SPRING 2021

NVL food Haven Wings Photo courtesy of Heritage Eats

Today both fried chicken and flavored wings are comfort food staples in many restaurants nationwide, including some in Napa Valley, where they have especially flourished during the pandemic. option, Buffalo cauliflower. The flavors, which are continually evolving, include Buffalo (Haven and Ghost), Buttermilk Fried, Cackalacky Bold Gold, Cackalacky (Cheerwine) BBQ, Caribbean Jerk, Flaky Salt and Pepper, Lemon Pepper, Nashville Hot, Szechuan Orange, Sweet and Spicy Korean, and Sweet Chili. The Haven team slowly roasts the wings in their combi oven using a proprietary “Haven Seasoning” before frying the wings to order in dedicated chicken fryers. Also available are sides such as chocolate chip cookies, fries, onion rings, pork belly “mac n cheese” balls, slaw, and drinks. // havennapa.com

KITCHEN DOOR

Buffalo Wings Photo courtesy of Kitchen Door

delectable gluten-free fried chicken is available with a few days’ advance notice and tastes every bit as delicious as the standard option. The fried chicken packages and meals are available for takeout and local delivery to Calistoga and St. Helena. // evangelinenapa.com

HAVEN NAPA As “a way to break up the days and put a little extra pep in everyone’s step,” the team at Heritage Eats – led by owners Ben

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Southside Bucket Photo courtesy of Emma K Morris

and Ali Koenig – would make chicken wings for themselves. Over time, they decided to create a ghost kitchen, takeout and delivery model restaurant, a “safe haven for wing lovers.” Thus, Haven Napa was born. The team decided to source their wings from Mary’s Free Range based on multiple considerations – “chew,” freshness, price point, quality, and size. Haven offers a plethora of flavors and styles – battered, naked (without batter), bone-in, boneless, gluten-free, dairy-free, and a meatless

The story behind Todd Humphries’s restaurant, Kitchen Door, is summed up on one phrase: “from suits to aloha shirts, foie gras to pho, wine decanters to wine on tap, Manhattans to micheladas.” Another item to add to the list is the restaurant’s best-selling teriyaki wings. Kitchen Door used to sell roasted chicken dinners and used some of the chicken meat for the pho when Humphries decided to take some of the roasted wings, coat them with teriyaki sauce, then dip them in sriracha mayonnaise. The wings were an immediate hit. What makes them so flavorful is that Humphries and his team brine them with a secret spice mix for 20 hours, roast them in baskets over mesquite and oak, finish them in a wood fire pizza oven with the teriyaki glaze and Korean chili flakes, then top them with sriracha mayonnaise and scallions. Later Humphries added Buffalo wings to the menu for those desiring a spicy wing option. The latter

wetted with diluted milk, coated with a salt and pepper seasoned flour, then fried in vegetable oil, which results in a crispy, lean coating that does not overpower the meat inside. The Q also makes an optional pepper vinegar that further enhances the flavor. Tartaglia and his team offer fried chicken daily, sometimes with weekly specials, including buckets of chicken with a choice of slaw or as a four-piece entrée accompanied by collard greens cooked with ham hocks and mashed potatoes. It is also included with their Asian salad (or an optional addition to any salad) or in a sandwich on toasted sourdough or a potato bun with sides of pepper vinegar slaw and fries. All are available for onsite dining, takeout, and delivery. // theqrandb.com

Winging It Photo courtesy of Napa Palisades Saloon

are naturally gluten-free, and the teriyaki wings can be made gluten-free with a tamaryaki sauce. The wings are available daily for onsite dining, takeout, and delivery. // kitchendoornapa.com

SOUTHSIDE CAFÉ Irma and Morgan Robinson opened their first Southside Café location in Carneros in 2016. It has since grown to three locations, a second in Yountville and a third in the city of Napa, Southside Century, on Gasser Drive. The Robinsons described the café as “fast-casual with a chef-driven menu and stylish aesthetics,” with each location having its own design style. When Morgan was the winery chef at Franciscan Estates, he developed picnic meals that included his California and Latin heritage style of fried chicken, biscuits, potato salad, and slaw, which Southside now offers on “Fried Chicken Fridays.” The restaurant sources local chicken, which is brined with fresh lemons, thyme, and buttermilk for 48 hours, then fried in high-quality rice bran oil. Included with the chicken are batter-fried lemon slices, which Irma says are a must-try. The weekly fried chicken package is available for takeout. Southside offers onsite patio dining at their three locations as well as catering. // southsidenapa.com

THE Q RESTAURANT AND BAR Serving what Gene Tartaglia described as “American fare with a Southern influence,” the Q Restaurant and Bar – or simply The Q, as locals fondly call it – is in North Napa’s Bel Aire Plaza away from downtown. The restaurant serves an authentic and traditional version of Southern fried chicken, which means no buttermilk in the recipe. Instead, the chicken is lightly

WINGING IT AND NAPA PALISADES SALOON The “Beer Guys in Wine Country,” the Napa Palisades Saloon team, could also

be nicknamed “The Wing Guys in Wine Country,” as they recently launched their ghost kitchen sister restaurant, Winging It, in advance of the cool and rainy winter months in Napa Valley. The Buffalo wings on the menu at Napa Palisades Saloon have always been popular for onsite and offsite dining. “Wings have been a staple since we opened,” said co-owner Chuck Meyer. “Our Executive Chef and partner, Tim Brown, is from New York, so we serve LOTS of beer. Buffalo wings and beer go together like peanut butter and jelly.” He and his team decided to expand their wing offerings but offer them for takeout and DoorDash delivery only through Winging It. They also make an appearance on the Napa Palisades Saloon happy hour menu. The chicken wings are sourced from Mary’s Free Range and steamed and seasoned before frying. The flavors, which include Backyard BBQ, Burnin’ By the Bayou, Garlic Parmesan, Sticky Fingers, Thai Kickers, and Traditional Buffalo, have just the right balance of flavor, heat, and other spices. With advance notice, the team can make dietary accommodations. // napapalisades.com doordash.com/store/winging-it-napa1153859/en-US

Irma and Morgan Robinson described the café as “fastcasual with a chef-driven menu and stylish aesthetics,” with each location having its own design style. SPRING 2021

NVL food

LETTUCE CUPS with BEEF and HORSERADISH CREAM 10-12 Servings

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Large skillet • Whisk • Small bowl FOR BEEF:

Cooking with

KAREN CROUSE

pringtime in the Napa Valley is marked by bud break. This is when the grapevines wake up and the first leaves emerge from the dormant buds. It is the beginning of the growing season. It's exciting for anyone who visits or lives in the Napa Valley. The vineyards present a brilliant and picturesque palette as they turn from a dark grey to a speckled and evolving green. This recipe checks all of my boxes. It's reflective of the season, fresh, visually appealing, and easy to eat. These lettuce cups look and

taste like spring. The pea shoots are my preference as they are readily available in the spring. They have a delicate and slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef and the horseradish cream's velvety texture. I like to serve the lettuce cups on a dark cutting board. The verdant lettuce leaves make a stunning show against the rustic wood. Since they are best served right away, I usually assemble the cups as my guests are visiting with me in the kitchen. Open your favorite bottle of Rosé and say "Hello" to Spring.

• 12 oz piece beef tenderloin, 1” thick • 1 head Bibb lettuce • 1 container of pea shoots or a handful of baby spinach (finely chopped) • Sea salt and Black pepper FOR HORSERADISH CREAM:

• ½ cup sour cream • 1 ½ TB prepared horseradish, drained • 1 TB mayonnaise (I like Duke's) • 1 Tsp rice vinegar • ½ tsp Dijon Mustard • ¼ tsp kosher salt • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper PREPARATION:

Beef Tenderloin • Sear the beef in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat until the internal temperature is 130 – 135 degrees (medium-rare), about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Let the meat cool completely, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for one hour or up to 24 hours. • While the beef is still cold, cut it against the grain into ¼ inch slices. Tip: If you are short on time, substitute a good quality roast beef from your favorite deli instead. Horseradish Cream (Yields 2/3 cups) • Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until thoroughly blended. (Can be made two to three days ahead if stored in an airtight container.) TO SERVE:

FOR MORE INFORMATION karencrousenapavalley.com 60

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Wash and fully dry the Bibb Lettuce leaves and arrange them on a serving platter or board. Place 1-2 slices of beef in the center of each leaf, folding or bunching to keep the meat centered. Layer with a teaspoon of horseradish cream. Top with a pinch of the pea shoots or spinach. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

The perfect balance of power and grace.

bon appétit

AMERICAN MADE KNIFE ART Shop Local | 1380 Main Street, St. Helena 707-244-5188 | newwestknifeworks.com

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

NAPA VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

More Than Thriving, It’s Bustling  BY FRAN MILLER

As Golf bursts back onto the scene as one of the few safe havens during Covid, Napa Valley Country Club (NVCC) has parlayed the newly found demand into “the busiest summer, fall, and now winter in our recorded history,” according to Ari Kreisler, General manager of NVCC. “We have great buzz right now. New members are signing up at a record pace. Last year, the club added more than 100 new members, compared to 32 in 2019. Smoke, Covid, heat waves, whatever. We just adapt and move forward.”

SPRING 2021

NVL around the valley

couples. The talented golf staff offers instructional programs for all ages, custom club-fitting, and ‘Demo Days’ where manufacturers like Titleist, Taylor Made, and Ping spend a day at the club to provide members the ability to test the latest in golf equipment. Just as golf has remained a Covid constant, so too has tennis, and NVCC is known as one of the best places to play tennis in the Napa Valley, with its junior’s programs, adult clinics, and everything in between. “Our Tennis program is thriving like never before, and that begins and ends with Chris,” said Kreisler of NVCC’s head tennis professional Chris Kubicka. “Chris can be found teaching on the courts early in the morning and late into the night,” thanks to the lights that adorn each of the seven available tennis courts. “Chris offers something for everyone, including pickleball lessons and drop-in events.”

apa Valley Country Club has a rich history that dates to 1915. Nestled among 181 oak-studded acres and surrounded by some of Coombsville’s most prestigious vineyards, NVCC has established a stalwart reputation of marrying tradition with adaptability to remain relevant and flourish. The long driveway leading to the clubhouse hints at hallowed and venerable grounds and showcases a panoramic golf course, seven lighted tennis courts, an Olympic size pool, a private clubhouse, and recently added pickleball and bocce courts. Yet, the mix of pick-up trucks and Mercedes lining the parking lot reveals a casual inclusivity that is not often found at a private golf club. Kreisler learned early that his favored traditional three-piece suits did not exactly match the club’s unpretentious vibe. “First, everyone told me to lose the jacket,” laughed Kreisler. “Then they told me to lose the tie. Then it was ‘untuck your dress shirt!’ But Kreisler said not to be fooled by the casual ambiance, as the club is the choice of some of Napa’s most prominent citizens, who also appreciate the “country club casual” atmosphere. “Don’t get me wrong,” contended Kreisler, “we have a dress code and higher expectations than you will find around town. We just aren’t that ‘hoity-toity’ club that you might expect upon arrival.” 64

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

The Club’s main attraction is its golf program. Boasting a 6,298-yard par 72 course, NVCC offers over two dozen competitive annual member golf tournaments with additional fun member golf events. “We provide the ultimate “golf club” experience for our members,” stated Kreisler. The ladies have their own day each week, and the club also provides golf events for

Kreisler joined NVCC in June 2020 after spending the first 19 years of his career serving two clubs in Southern California as the Controller, CFO, and General Manager. One of 154 candidates considered for the NVCC job, he was selected for his leadership skills and ability to gather a top-notch team. “A golf club is not simply about amenities,”

“ A golf club is not simply about amenities,” said Kreisler, a Southern California native who has quickly grown to love his new surroundings. “It’s about the people. Our staff is a big part of our brand, providing an incredible experience you can only get in a private club.” said Kreisler, a Southern California native who has quickly grown to love his new surroundings. “It’s about the people. Our staff is a big part of our brand, providing an incredible experience you can only get in a private club.” Heather Vigil serves as the club’s infinitely capable membership and human resources director. Steven Tevere serves as Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director, and according to Kreisler, is a “celebrity” amongst members who appreciate his delicious ‘to-go’ dinners. During Covid restrictions, when members cannot use the clubhouse and restaurant, Tevere creates a special dish with sides and dessert three nights each week, focusing on one well-priced and perfect meal. “When you have a club that has been around as long as ours, it takes some time to make your mark,” said Kreisler. “Not for Steven. His food and ideas have taken this place by storm.” Kreisler also credits the NVCC Board of Directors for being integral to the significant advances the Club has made in such a short amount of time. “Board service can be challenging, especially in a fast-paced,

changing environment,” he explained. “It’s their behind-the-scenes work that I am the most thankful for.” Nobody knows that better than Board President Martin Olsen. According to Kreisler, “Being the Board President is the toughest volunteer role of all, and Martin performs it with dedication and tenacity. He never flinches in the face of difficult decisions, and these

Chris Kubicka Director of Tennis

Heather Vigil Sales & Marketing Director

achievements we keep making would not be possible without his leadership.” Asked his plans for NVCC’s future, Kreisler said, “Think big but keep it simple. Keep it affordable. Hire good people. Communicate to the members more often than you think you should. And then communicate again.” FOR MORE INFORMATION napavalleycc.com

Ari Kreisler NVCC General Manager

Steven Tevere Executive. Chef and Food & Beverage Director

SPRING 2021

NVL side trip

Captivating

CARM EL - by - the -SEA  BY FRAN MILLER

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Manzoni Cellars

Scheid Vineyards

Caraccioli Tasting Room

Carmel-by-the-Sea has long served as a haven for artists, writers, and intellectuals drawn to the inspiring atmosphere of this unique, oceanfront hamlet. Shaped at the turn of the 20th century by creative minds who embraced an arts-andcrafts aesthetic, Carmel continues to captivate.

storybook atmosphere pervades the central, one square mile village where mid-1920s Tudor and Spanish Romantic Revival style buildings and cobblestone sidewalks delight visitors from around the globe. Charming courtyards and secret passageways further contribute to a fairytale quality. The downtown streets are peppered with twinkle-lit corridors and fountain bedecked patios, each lined with unique shops, galleries, and more than two-dozen tasting rooms, wine bars, and bottle shops. Monterey County is one of the world’s top viticultural destinations, and the area’s wines and wineries are well represented here. Stroll from one tasting room to the next. Each provides a lively atmosphere to sample the region’s premium varietals while rubbing elbows with locals, visitors, and often the vintners themselves. Regulars and out-of-towners love Manzoni Cellars’ Hampton Court tasting room and patio where Mark Manzoni’s portfolio of small production wines can be sampled. Manzoni chooses quality over quantity in making his estate-grown Pinot Noir, Syrah and Rose, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA-grown Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Bordeaux Blend. Enjoy wines by the glass or a flight of four tastes along with charcuterie and cheese plates. // manzoniwines.com Scheid Vineyards has farmed wine grapes in Monterey County since 1972. Its

12 sustainably certified estate vineyards totaling 4,000 acres are located along a 70-mile spread of the Salinas Valley. Scheid’s Carmel Village tasting room is an inviting haven in which to sample their full portfolio of both the familiar (Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) and the more exotic (Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, Grenache Blanc, Petit Manseng, Roussanne, Tannat, Tempranillo, and Touriga Nacional). // scheidvineyards.com Caraccioli Cellars is home to what is one of Carmel’s most beautiful tasting rooms. Designed by Si Teller, the sleek space resembles a French Champagne cave and features a lustrous Perota bar slab, the ideal spot from which to sample a flight of Caraccioli’s sparkling wines and Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs. // caracciolicellars.com Taste wines from Monterey County’s ‘sweet spot’ at McIntyre Family Wines’ Tasting Studio, located in the elegant Carmel Crossroads shopping plaza. The McIntyre Estate Vineyard is within a renowned 12-mile stretch of benchland in the under-the-radar Santa Lucia AVA and was among the first properties in that AVA to become SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certified. Enjoy their delicious Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays on their heated outdoor patio, or pre-order a bottle or two and take advantage of curbside pick-up. // mcintyrevineyards.com SPRING 2021

Enzo

NVL side trip

La Playa Carmel

Bistro Giovanni

The Pocket

Where to Stay Of all of Carmel’s quaint hotel choices, only one is known as Carmel’s Grand Dame. Originally a luxurious mansion built in 1905 by an artist as a gift to his wife, the landmark La Playa Carmel features stained glass, shell ceiling light fixtures, Carmel stone, and sand-hued beams. Cozy gathering spots abound. Relax in the beautifully tended gardens and gather in the library for complimentary afternoon tea and lemonade served with a coastal view. Sangria is offered at check-in, and local reds and whites are poured every evening during wine hour. Chocolate chip cookies are freshly baked each night, and a Ghirardelli chocolate is placed upon each pillow at turndown. In the morning, enjoy a complimentary and bountiful breakfast. The hotel’s wood-paneled bar with its 68

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Frank Sinatra soundtrack is the locals’ favorite spot for a martini or Manhattan. // laplayahotel.com

Where to Eat Carmel’s dining scene is as much a draw as beautiful Carmel Beach, one of the most scenic spots on California’s Central Coast. Visitors will find flavors to sate every appetite. The menu at newly opened The Pocket, for instance, draws inspiration from around the globe. Find Carbonara Bucatini, Carne Asada, Octopus, and Chorizo. Owners Federico Rusciana (who also serves as executive chef) and Kent Ipsen have put together an impressive wine list featuring 400 international selections, in addition to a full bar with a selection of classic and specialty cocktails. The warm and inviting dining room features

accordion windows that bring the outdoors inside. // thepocketcarmel.com When in dining doubt, follow the locals. Here, the locals love Carmel’s Bistro Giovanni for its unpretentious service, art adorned walls and exceptional food. Owner Firok Shield is well-known as a charming and hospitable host who has operated many acclaimed Carmel restaurants. His efforts now focus exclusively on Carmel’s Bistro Giovanni, where the kitchen serves-up tried and true recipes with a twist, such as slowroasted short ribs that fall off the bone. Ask for a taste of his unique Block 57 and Da Giovanni wines. // carmelbistro.com Enzo features Italian sandwiches, flatbreads, and delicious main dishes like the customer-favorite Crab Ravioli, featuring scallops, sun-dried tomatoes, and ravioli in a creamy Champagne sauce. The recipe

is Calabrian, just like owner Enzo Pagano. On warmer days, enjoy a meal on the sundrenched and bougainvillea bedecked patio. In cool weather, dine inside by the cozy fireplace. // enzocarmel.com

And More Carmel is home to more than 100 art galleries featuring one-of-a-kind finds as well as the works of world-renowned artists who can often be found working in their galleries. Whether an avid art enthusiast or merely an admirer, don’t miss the monthly self-guided Saturday night Art Walk. And the annual Carmel Art Festival draws dozens of Plein Air painters each May. For all of its offerings, a visit to Carmelby-the-Sea is also noteworthy for what is not found. Visitors won’t encounter national brand hotels, branded coffee shops, or fastfood chains. Nor will they find street lights or addresses. (Mail is delivered to a central post office where residents maintain PO boxes.) Additional town edicts include the recently overturned ‘no ice cream cone’ ordinance and the unenforced ‘no high-heels’ law, for which going rogue is inadvisable; those cobblestone walkways can be a challenge in even the most sensible of footwear.

Carmel Valley Find more wine tasting venues within Carmel Valley, a 20-minute drive east of Carmel Village. This pastoral hollow in the heart of the Santa Lucia Mountains is warmed by a sun that often evades its coastal cousin. Graced with chic resorts, lavender-covered hills, and ancient grapevines, Carmel Valley is in and of itself a top global wine destination. The area’s terroir yields stellar Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc grapes that create the varietals poured at its more than 20 wine tasting rooms, each with unique style and character, and many within walking distance of each other. Check out Bernardus and its luscious Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blanc. (bernardus.com) Joullian Vineyards makes Bordeaux varietals, which can be sampled in its distinctively classic stone building designed by local master mason Joseph DeMaria. (joullian.com) Feel right at home on the farm at spunky Cowgirl Winery. (cowgirlwinery.com) At Georis, European winemaking traditions have been followed since 1982. (georiswine.com) Enjoy the beautiful garden patio at Boekenoogen, (boekennogenwines.com), and don’t miss the French-inspired Folktale Winery at the former home of Chateau Julien Winery, situated on 15 acres of sustainably-farmed vineyards along the Carmel River. (folktalewinery.com)

SPRING 2021

NVL real estate spotlight

Photo by North Bay Create

THE JOEL TOLLER TEAM Integrity and Authenticity in Real Estate

he Joel Toller Team has provided real estate services for over 20 years and specializes in representing buyers and sellers of luxury residential properties, wineries, vineyards, and complex development deals throughout Napa and Sonoma. The Joel Toller Team ranks in the top 1% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. Its success is attributable to principal agent Joel Toller, associate agent Erin Bright Russell, and expert support from associates Barbara Gates and Vanessa Mullally. Both Joel and Erin are native to Napa Valley and are engaged members of the community. Part of their team philosophy is providing a full range of success-oriented client service and a commitment to give back to local businesses, schools, and nonprofit organizations. Joel has volunteered for years with the St. Helena Rotary, and Erin serves on the Board of Directors for 70

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

the Napa Valley Grapegrowers. Both place great importance on the work that these and other organizations do to increase the quality of life for Napa’s citizens. Joel said, “I feel fortunate to have been raised in this beautiful valley and enjoy working with people who value the place and the community as much as I do.” The team also participates in the Coldwell Banker Brokers of the Valley local business reinvestment program, supporting a locallyowned business at every close of escrow for the first quarter of 2021. When asked about how their business has been affected by the events of the past year, Erin said, “The past year’s events surrounding the pandemic created an even higher demand for wine country property, and market activity has been strong.” Unfortunately, both Joel and Erin were directly impacted by the LNU and Glass Fires, as were many of their

clients, families, and friends. Joel said, “Our deepest gratitude goes to the first responders who put their lives on the line to defend our properties. The resiliency and strength of our community have really shone through.” Even with the challenges 2020 presented, the Joel Toller Team completed multiple notable sales in Napa and Sonoma. Joel said, “It was a record year for our team. We were glad to be involved in a number of the highest tier transactions in Napa and Sonoma Counties.” Erin reflected, “One of the most touching elements to me during that challenging time was the outpouring of support for our region. People all over the world love this special place, and being from here, we appreciate that. It’s why we enjoy doing what we do.” FOR MORE INFORMATION

thejoeltollerteam.com

ROUND BARN S A N T A

R O S A

INSPIRED BY THE NOW,

BUILT FOR

THE FUTURE.

FountaingroveNewHomes.com | 707-657-3353 | 208 Semillon Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 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 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. ©️2021 City Ventures. All rights reserved. DRE LIC # 01979736.

NVL artist spotlight

QUINN SAINE Chasing Sunsets  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

ew professional photographers begin their career in photography; like many creative callings, it is often a passion project that turns into an occupation. That is what happened with Napa Valley-based photographer Quinn Saine. Quinn was already a successful tennis pro when he began dabbling in photography. Originally from Indiana and a former NCAA Division I athlete in men’s tennis, Quinn started his professional life as a traveling instructor with Peter Burwash International. The job took him around the world teaching tennis at luxury resorts in places as diverse as the Austrian mountains and the Hawaiian Islands. In 2016, he moved to the Napa Valley, where he joined the tennis instructors’ team at the Silverado Resort. Almost immediately, he became enthralled with the Sonoma Coast, driving for miles along Highway 1 and stopping to take hundreds of photos along the way. Photography soon became his passion. He knew his hobby was becoming something more when he upgraded to a professional camera. With coastal horizons as his muse, he not only taught himself to shoot, but he also began to experiment with photographic effects to make his images more poignant. At this point, he said, “I have to stick with this to find my rhythm and unique style.” Quinn realized that sunrise and sunset not only created spectacular images, but they also spoke to his soul. He started camping on the beach, not to miss a minute of either one. What happened next set his trajectory in stone. One evening at Dillon Beach, as the clouds started to block out the sun, Quinn changed 72

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

“Quinn realized that sunrise and sunset not only created spectacular images, but they also spoke to his soul.”

the camera lens without realizing he had the wrong manual setting. After shooting, he stared in awe at an image of a low tide reflection. He later found out that his unintentionally used technique had a name - Intentional Camera Movement (ICM). This technique creates a striated viewpoint of the coast and ocean that intensifies the colors and linearity of the view—in short, an abstract coastal panorama. He defined his new artistic aspiration as “transforming a simple aesthetic using the naturally warm and cool colors of sunset and feeling the presence of the Pacific.” In less than five years, Quinn has accomplished quite a lot for a self-taught, start-up photographer. In collaboration with a Grand Junction, Colorado CBD company, KAI, the still full-time tennis professional created a custom collection of abstract ocean images that the company licenses for its branding. It is a natural fit for a company whose name means “ocean” in Hawaiian. You can find Quinn’s work at Heron House tasting room, greeting cards featured at Napa BookMine, custom orders through his website, and until April 30, his work is on display at the Gallery at Yountville Community Center in an exhibition titled “Flow.” Quinn loves learning from other creatives and considers his photography “work that is more fun than fun,” he laughed. He is excited about what will come next—art installations and branding opportunities are high on his list. Until then, you likely can find him somewhere along Highway 1 chasing sunsets. FOR MORE INFORMATION quinnsaine.com

NAPA VALLEY ART SCENE Coming to Life Again  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

For all that it has to offer the wine enthusiast, the Napa Valley is no slouch in the art department either. Maybe it is because wine and art, both symbolic of la dolce vita, seemingly go hand in hand. Regardless, the California AVA is home to an imposing fine-arts scene.

“Crowd I” by Magdalena Abakanowicz Photo courtesy of The Hess Collection

iving into the local art culture leads to discovering all manner of artwork: contemporary, avantgarde, paintings, sculpture, indoor and outdoor—all this and much more can be found in the dynamic galleries of the Napa Valley. Now that local businesses are

starting to open across Northern California, it is time for everyone to grab masks and hit the art galleries. One thing that stands out here is the individuality of these galleries. Each has something that makes it stand out from the rest, whether it is the style that is

showcased or a bigger-than-life owner who makes the experience especially fun and memorable. With that thought in mind, the list begins with the oldest gallery in Napa Valley- Jessel Gallery on Atlas Peak Roadand its bigger-than-life owner, artist Jessel Miller. SPRING 2021

di Rosa Site Walk Weekend Photo by Diana Jex Photography

NVL people & art

Ruth Bader Ginsberg-Last Wish by Jessel Miller courtesy of Jessel Gallery

JESSEL GALLERY When visiting the Jessel Gallery, the gallery’s central figure, Jessel Miller, almost steals the show. She has owned the gallery for over 35 years and has become an icon of the valley’s art world. She is beloved by visitors who can view the latest art from her local artists’ collection or take a painting class from Jessel herself. A large portion of the gallery is dedicated to Jessel’s works, but never more so than in 2020 and 2021, a prolific period for Jessel as she painted over 300 new images. Known for years as an exceptional watercolor painter of abstract Napa Valley landscapes, Jessel made a considerable shift during the pandemic when she began using acrylics for the first time. This shift led her to paint a series of works with multi-cultural themes that depict world unity. Pieces from the collections Honored Souls and Soulful Voices have garnered a flurry of press, and you can view them on the walls of her art studio, which is open to the public and in the center of the gallery. In addition to being a highly acclaimed artist, Jessel is an award-winning children’s book author. Her book “Angels in the Vineyards” is a beautiful representation of the Napa Valley and her lovely dream-like creativity. Ask her about the concept of “Jesselism” and where she plans to take her art in the future. (Hint: She is on a mission to use her talent and works for good.) 1019 Atlas Peak Rd., Napa // jesselgallery.com 74

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Parts Unknown Exhibition by Ann Shogren Photo courtesy of AERENA Gallery

DI ROSA CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ART Founders Rene and Veronica di Rosa spent over six decades amassing a vast collection of contemporary works by west coast artists, eventually housing the most extensive collection of works from Bay Area artists in the world. The di Rosa gallery includes over 1,700 pieces spread over its 125-year-old Carneros property featuring multiple galleries, a sculpture park, and a 35-acre lake. Veronica died in 1991, but Rene continued collecting works from Bay Area artists until his death in 2010 when he gifted the art collection and the preserve’s 217 acres to the di Rosa Foundation which is protected in perpetuity by the Napa County Land Trust. Programming, educational programs, and civic engagement related to the exhibitions are important foundational pillars of the center. Vibrant and inspiring abstract works cover the gallery walls, and the vast, eclectic outdoor sculpture gardens are must-sees. Two exhibitions are opening this spring: The Incorrect Museum: Vignettes From

the di Rosa Collection is curated by the center’s new executive director, Kate Eilertsen, and Ceramic Interventions: Nicki Green, Sahar Khoury & Maria Paz. 5200 Carneros Highway, Napa // dirosaart.org

THE HESS COLLECTION Founder Donald Hess was named one of the top 200 collectors globally by ARTNews magazine, and the Hess Collection consistently draws critical acclaim. Hess himself began collecting art when he bought a painting as décor for his new home and later discovered that it was a Picasso. That gave Hess his first inclination that he might have an eye for art curation. Hess gradually increased his collection to include contemporary paintings, sculptures, and installations, many of which are on display at the Hess Collection Winery on Mount Veeder. When Hess established The Hess Collection Winery, formerly the Christian Brothers - Mont La Salle Winery, he also purchased approximately 1,000 acres on Mount Veeder.

As the winery grew, he displayed pieces from his extensive collection throughout the building and eventually dedicated three upper levels to art. One standout piece is the flaming typewriter by Leopoldo Maler, who created it as a tribute to Maler’s uncle, who was assassinated for his political essays. The Hess family art collection is extraordinary by anyone’s standards, and the family continues to share and grow the art collection today. Visitors to the Hess Collection Winery can experience the museum for free, making it a great place to enjoy a tasting of top-caliber wine while strolling the fantastic displays. 4411 Redwood Rd., Napa // thehesscollection.com

ÆRENA GALLERIES & GARDENS ÆRENA Galleries & Gardens’ uniquely beautiful art and design venues feature contemporary art and sculpture and finely edited collections of furnishings and objects dating from the 18th century. The gallery drew its name from Teddy Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech to represent their belief in fearless artistic integrity. “It is not the critic who counts, not the one who points out how the strong man stumbled or how the doer of deeds might have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred with sweat and dust and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, if he wins, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”

Solage in Calistoga, St. Regis in San Francisco, and MacArthur Place in Sonoma. 1354 Main St., Napa // aerenagalleries.com

QUENT CORDAIR FINE ART Any gallery with an “Art Goddess” on staff begs to be visited. At Quent Cordair Fine Art, the artist’s wife, Linda Cordair, holds the title. In 1996, Cordair established the gallery to highlight sculptures and paintings in the romantic realism genre. Romantic Realism celebrates life, happiness, and love with art that depicts everyday scenes and people better than they are in reality. It is real life romanticized in dreamy, beautiful ways. This style and painting technique began in the pre-twentieth century. Commissions are available for portraiture, murals, garden, and architectural projects. The Quent Cordair Fine Art Gallery serves an international clientele of private and corporate collectors.

In addition to paintings and sculptures, Marchiori crafts porcelain, ceramics, furniture, watercolors, tiles, and books. One might call him a Renaissance Man. 1206 Cedar St., Calistoga // catoga.com

YOUNTVILLE GALLERY AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Yountville’s GALLERY at the community center exhibits a wide range of notable Napa Valley, Bay Area, and global artists with showings that rotate monthly. Coming this Spring, the Gallery is proud to present internationally renowned artist and Bay Area resident Guy Buffet in a unique Yountville Arts curated exhibition. The Gallery hosts events yearround, including opening night receptions with the artists. 6550 Yount St., Yountville // townofyountville.com/ about/art-in-yountville/community-center-gallery

1301 First St., Napa // cordair.com

CA’ TOGA GALLERIA D’ARTE Hailing from Italia after completing his classical art training in Venice, Carlo Marchiori opened Ca’ Toga Gallerie D’Arte and added something totally unique to the local art options. His stunning, whimsical painting style leans toward Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-Classic, but with a modern twist. There is a prominent element of Italy’s past in his tongue-in-cheek paintings, including the irreverent “The Floating Doges.” Marchiori has a fascination with the Neopolitan character Pulcinella, using the character figure in several paintings like “Pulcinella & The Moon” and “Circo Macabre,” while reflecting the Commedia dell’Arte of the 17th century.

Photo courtesy of Ca' Toga Gallery

- Theodore Roosevelt at the Sorbonne, in Paris, France, on April 23, 1910. The ÆRENA Galleries & Gardens group showcases contemporary works from over 100 emerging, mid-career, and established artists. With galleries in Healdsburg in Sonoma County and St. Helena in Napa Valley, the group thoroughly covers California wine country. There are a variety of ways to view ÆRENA paintings and sculptures. Many of their pieces are exhibited in beautiful spaces around northern California: Blackbird Vineyards in Napa; Harvest Inn in St. Helena; Stewart Cellars in Yountville, the Sculpture Garden at Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford,

The art of enjoyment at Quent Cordair Fine Art

SPRING 2021

NVL people & art

Photos courtesy of di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art

Picnics, Outdoor Sculpture, and New Exhibits

DI ROSA CENTER for CONTEMPORARY ART

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

t’s been a year of nimble pivots for everyone. Yet one thing is certain at Napa’s di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art — “Art and Outdoors” is one of the non-profit museum’s foundational pillars and has been for nearly 25 years. Highlighting this is the monumental sculpture For Veronica by renowned American artist Mark di Suvero. Prominently placed on the hillside in front of Winery Lake, it welcomes visitors to experience Northern California art in a stunning setting. Drop in, take a walk and stay awhile. Beyond the distinctive blue gate on Sonoma Highway, a map pinpoints 68 notable works of art set among 200-plus acres along the shore. First-time visitors are astonished to find that the beautiful Carneros region's unrivaled expanses are just a 10-minute drive from downtown Napa. “Locals take gentle two-mile nature hikes in the spring. More ambitious hikers can climb Milliken Peak, the region’s highest summit. And as a bonus,” said Andrea Saenz Williams, Director of Education & Civic Engagement, “the birding here is fantastic.” Delightful as the “art park” is, there’s still more. A permanent collection of 1,700 works focuses on contemporary 76

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

artists with connections to Northern California, particularly from the 1960s through the 2010s. Due to the passion of American vintner and world-class art collectors, Rene and Veronica di Rosa, central pieces by Robert Arneson, Bruce Conner, Jay DeFeo, Mildred Howard, Carlos Villa, Mike Henderson, and William T. Wiley, among other notables, underscore di Rosa's mission to tell the story of time and place. Two exhibitions are open this spring when guidelines allow. The Incorrect Museum: Vignettes From the di Rosa Collection is curated by the center’s new executive director, Kate Eilertsen. Exploring regional movements ranging from Funk and Nut art to Northern California conceptualism, she stated, “di Rosa’s remarkable collection is filled with untold stories and influential artists that have so much to teach us about this period in art history and its influence on artists today.” The second exhibition is Ceramic Interventions: Nicki Green, Sahar Khoury & Maria Paz, inspired by the Bay Area’s longstanding tradition of radical experimentation in ceramic arts that have pushed this medium forward in recent years.

Programming, educational programs, and civic engagement related to the exhibitions are important foundational pillars at the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art. The center provides visual arts programming for all ages, both in-person and through at-home digital content. Di Rosa furthers its educational mission by providing arts programming in the community with partners such as Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, Arts Council Napa Valley, and Napa Valley College. Much of the educational content produced is now in both English and Spanish to increase audience reach.

Plan a Visit Admission: $20 for adults: Free for educators and ages 17 and under.

Hours:

Fri., Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free access to the gift shop during open hours.

Location:

5200 Sonoma Hwy, Napa, CA 707-226-5991 // dirosaart.org

2040AtlasPeak.com

2040 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa | 41+ Acres | $7,500,000 184stonemountain.com

184 Stone Mountain Cir, Napa | 3BD | 3BA $1,850,000

894OakLeaf.com

894 Oak Leaf Way | 2BD | 2BA $850,000

545westgatedrive.com

545 Westgate Dr, Napa | 4BD | 4BA | $2,175,000

324standrews.com

365troondrive.com

324 Saint Andrews Dr, Napa | 4BD | 3BA $1,795,000

365 Troon Dr, Napa | 3BD | 2BA $1,350,000

762cottagedrive.com

762 Cottage Dr | 1BD | 1BA $699,000

Karen Magliocco 707-249-1600 Karen@TheMaglioccoGroup.com BRE#00931840

527westgate.com

527 Westgate Dr | Silverado Resort Lot $699,000

Helo Magliocco 707-628-9401 Helo@TheMaglioccoGroup.com DRE#01897052

TheMaglioccoGroup.com | Napa Valley Real Estate

SHOP LOCAL

One of the best things about Napa Valley is its plethora of small, locallyowned businesses that offer a wide variety of unique products, services, and experiences. Whether searching for fashion, gourmet food, sweets, art, wine, or local services, small businesses serve as the community’s backbone. Why shop local? There are considerable advantages to supporting local businesses, but the most important one is, it’s a personal investment in the community. Whether you realize it or not, when you shop local, you are individually stimulating the local economy and, in turn, helping shape the community’s unique character and personality. Locallyowned businesses hire local staff, contractors, and service providers and purchase from local suppliers and farms, helping them grow and increasing the region’s tax base. In addition to the economic advantages, it also helps the environment. Buying from locally-owned businesses conserves energy and resources in the form For every of less packaging, fuel for $100 spent, transportation to deliver products and encourages roughly walking and shopping on foot, reducing the need for $68-$73 cars and parking. returns to Lastly, shopping locally local activity. offers locals and visitors a chance to connect. Visiting new shops and businesses in a more intimate setting creates a unique opportunity to meet the owners and mingle with community members. Before taking the easy route and shopping online, discover what your local businesses have to offer. Learning about the inspiration behind a product or offering, how it was grown, created, or packaged makes the shopping experience and your ultimate purchase much more special.

Did You Know?

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

NVL shop local spotlight

EVERYTHING

is Sweet with Sugar

Photo courtesy of Sugar + Lemon  BY VALERIE OWENS

ugar + Lemon, Body Sugaring & Boutique, located in the heart of Napa, offers clients an unforgettable experience rooted in vitality. Specializing in the art of body sugaring (an ancient hair removal technique), organic spray tans, age management, holistic skin and body care, the luxury sugaring salon’s sense of tranquility will invigorate the soul while rejuvenating the body. A licensed esthetician since 1990, Michelle Cate launched Sugar + Lemon in 2015. A virtuoso in esthetics, Cate’s commitment to finding holistic alternatives for traditional skin and body treatments has paved the way for young professionals. As a mentor and professional sugar educator, Cate has trained hundreds of estheticians and founded The Sugar Professor’s SugarPro Academy, utilizing her years of training to teach the art of body sugaring and holistic hair removal. “I have specialized in acne and anti-aging skin treatments for my entire career,”

explained Cate. “I had severe acne that began in 5th grade and tried everything that promised to fix it, to no avail. After high school, I met an esthetician that helped clear my skin with professional skincare and regular treatments. I was inspired to help other people feel confident about their skin, the way she had with me. After receiving my estheticians license, I started taking cosmetic chemistry courses for non-chemists at UCLA to understand how products and their ingredients affect the skin. I learned that the bottom line of aging and many skin conditions is inflammation. This knowledge influenced a long-term skin health philosophy. Naturally, it led me to look at the skin with a holistic approach, incorporating the education and tools from my own healing. This segued into discovering an ancient hair removal technique known as sugaring. After experiencing it for myself, I had to learn for my clients. It was so much less painful than waxing.”

A less traumatic alternative to waxing, sugaring removes unwanted facial and body hair utilizing a paste that consists of lemon, water, and sugar applied directly to the skin. The paste is slightly warmed to body temperature, which eliminates the potential to burn the skin, and hair is removed in the direction of growth, allowing for a dramatic reduction in inflammation, density, and ingrown hairs. The process is environmentally friendly and safe for even the most sensitive skin. Cate and her personally trained team of talented professionals can be found at 1322 3rd St. in downtown Napa. Offering sugaring services for all genders, holistic skincare, Dien Chan Zone reflexology, Reiki energy balancing, organic spray tan services, thoughtfully curated gifts, and self-care products for every individual body type, the local sugaring spa & boutique offers customers an unparalleled personal care experience. FOR MORE INFORMATION

napasugar.com

SPRING 2021

NVL shop local spotlight

20 YEARS STRONG

Airocide Meets the Moment P

aul Frommelt wears a few different vocational hats, but one particular industry in which he is involved is having a moment. In addition to directing sales for Trust Hungarian, Treuil French, and AP John American Oak Barrels, the Napa native and wine industry veteran is a solutions consultant for Airocide, a medical Class II air purification system that destroys organic matter both large and small, including organic gases and viruses, the latter of which has generated substantive interest in the technology. Airocide uses NASA developed, cutting edge technology to eradicate viruses, bacteria, pathogens, allergens, pollen, dust, dander, odors, smoke, and more. It’s even been clinically proven to destroy Anthrax spores. Unlike HEPA filter products that trap, Airocide destroys. NASA originally developed the device to eliminate organic gases from the space station. Today the product is used in food processing plants to kill airborne microbes and in wine caves to destroy mold, TCA, TBA, and Brett. Per Frommelt, the units are perfect for doctor’s offices, hospitals, tasting rooms, senior living centers, schools, residences, restaurants, hotels, B&Bs, etc. “This is the Lamborghini of air purifiers,” said Frommelt. “We are the benchmark; we have no competitor. The system is proven 99.9% effective in eradicating bacteria, pathogens, mold, pollen, and even smoke odor. There is no air space we cannot purify.” The sculptural Airocide unit looks like a modern speaker; a variety of sizes are intended for both industrial and home use. Frommelt’s clients often purchase one unit for each room 80

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

“Our air quality is extreme,” said Frommelt, who referenced the fires and smoke of the past few years. “Volatile compounds – wood, metal, plastics – find their way into our lungs and place our health in jeopardy.

of their home or their office building. The unit does not have a filter, and it does not require cleaning. Airocide guarantees that users will generally feel better once breathing purified air. “I purchased several units of Airocide which I utilize in the common areas and exam room at my Periodontal office,” said Dr. Sean Vreeburg of Napa Valley Periodontics & Dental Implants. “I leave them on 24/7 and have been very pleased. The office smells fresh, and they keep my staff much more at ease during this pandemic. The units are compact and sleek and not as cumbersome as other products on the market.” “The Airocide units we have set up in our winery office, tasting room, break room, and home office have proven to be exceptional at cleaning the air and clearing odors,” said Jeff and Karen Fontanella of Fontanella Family Winery. “You can feel the difference when you enter the room, particularly during smoke days outside. It’s great to be able to tell clients and customers that we have taken this extra step in providing a safe environment.” “Our air quality is extreme,” said Frommelt, who referenced the fires and smoke of the past few years. “Volatile compounds – wood, metal, plastics – find their way into our lungs and place our health in jeopardy. Life is not a dress rehearsal; we’ve got one shot. Shouldn’t we make that one shot as healthy as possible?

FOR MORE INFORMATION

707-337-4344 // Paul@SaniAirSys.com // airocideair.com

women's + children's clothing designer handbags • jewelry accessories • personal shopping

1204 Main St. • St Helena, CA 94574 • 707.963.6005 allisoninwinecountry.com • @allisoninwinecountry

M. S A N D O VA L

ARCHITECTS,INC. Architecture | Historic Preservation | Design

RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL 707.637.4363

• msandovalarchitects.com SPRING 2021

NVL health & wellness

ABIDE Abide Proprietors and General Manager: (from L to R) Micah Malan, Ty Heldt, Kaleena Quarles, Jerred Kiloh and Amos Flint

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Napa’s Cannabis Sommelier  BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ABIDE

Wine varietals are derived and defined by terroir and appellation, and they feature distinct smells, tastes, and textures. So too is cannabis.

ust as wine can serve as instrumental to a relaxed lifestyle, so can cannabis. This plant, so often misunderstood and maligned, is the heart of Abide, a new downtown Napa dispensary that seeks to educate and heal through its various services.

“ We consider Abide to be a perfect complement to the fine wine and high-end culinary options found in wine country.” Micah Malan, Amos Flint, Ty Heldt, and Jerred Kiloh opened their downtown dispensary with the goal of providing the community with organic pain relief and educational services in an upscale boutique setting. The four, each a wine country native, bring a wealth of varied experience to their venture, including Kiloh’s proprietorship of award-winning Los Angeles dispensary The Higher Path. But their common denominator is farming; having grown up surrounded by the agricultural bounty of wine country has provided each of them a deep understanding of what it takes to organically grow and nurture crops of the highest quality. Their mission with Abide is simple: provide customers with a warm and welcoming

environment in which they can explore superior cannabis products, sold at a fair price and dispensed by compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable staff that understand not only the medicinal properties of each strain, but also the terroir variations and terpenes. “We hope to be for cannabis what the Napa Valley wineries are to wine,” said Malan. “We are your cannabis sommeliers, providing the best in both education and product. We consider Abide to be a perfect complement to the fine wine and high-end culinary options found in wine country. “Our belief is that relief can be found naturally, from a plant grown in the ground. We take an honest, authentic approach to cultivating, dispensing, and educating. We believe in helping customers find the right delivery system and dosage for their needs and the symbiotic relationship between the human cannabinoid and the plant cannabinoid. Educating and guiding patients to their perfect cannabis product is our ultimate goal.” Abide products include extracts, edibles, tinctures, vapes, and topical creams and ointments, variations of which are often used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to general pain, nausea, muscle spasms, appetite loss, and mental health conditions. Most of Abide’s products are listed in the company’s online store, and compassionate Abide staff are also available for consultations and can recommend the best formulations for each customer.

@ofthevalleynaturals

INCORPORATE CBD IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE Take CBD oil before your morning coffee or breakfast for a steady dose throughout the day

Few drops pre and post-workout

CBD oil with coffee for lunch

Full dropper of CBD oil at night Shop products at: www.ofthevalleynaturals.com

BETTER ASSESSMENT. BETTER CARE PLAN. BETTER OUTCOME. Senior Helpers LIFE Profile combines compassionate care with technology to create the most comprehensive in-home care plan available. Our proven programs and trained caregivers make it easier for families to give their loved ones the assistance they need.

FOR MORE INFORMATION abidenapa.com SPRING 2021

NVL money & wealth

Health and Aging I S Y O U R F A M I LY R E A D Y TO COVER THE COSTS?

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

money sense

Are You the “Family Bank”?

Use these four questions as—aandguide tonohelp you When to say yes how to say — if family members turn to you for financial support. plan ahead caregiving Almost everyfor familyfuture has one: themedical person family and a position to provide it. Yet needs. the “Finances in develop a basic philosophy th

members call on when money is tight and Retirement” survey found that few respondents everyone. Explain that this ph they need a helping hand. The more financially had budgeted to be able to help family members your family build its wealth an responsible you are, the more likely you are to financially, despite giving an average of $6,500 gift decisions will be made ba a combination of in-home WHERE to WILL MONEYto family. “We create together be considered family bank,” 1. according a THEannually budgets for such values, such as and a strong work Most people don’t“the want FROM? where siblings 2016 study conducted by Merrill in COME partnership things as travel or shopping, sooutside why notcare,” for she says, self-sufficiency. If you’re drea to think about theThe study, “FinancesTalk at least share costs, if not the prepare expenses associated with Age Wave. in about potential family giving?” asks Bill Hunter,can Retirement of refusing a request, hands-on responsibilities. with a long-term Client illness,Experience, such as home Retirement: New Challenges, New Solutions,” Director, Strategy & Solutions beforehand so that you can e health-related what-ifs to the family found that 62% of people over agehealthcare 50 provide or modifications at Bank of America. unemotionally. When you can to family members, withtothe home accommodate a future disability. 4. WHAT ABOUT ISSUES? outline the reasons for your d that comefinancial withsupport aging, Hunter advises that you determine how much END-OF-LIFE overwhelming majority (80%) doingShould so because your parents purchase disability Among the things to consider: Which you can commit to this purpose without When a family business is inv money sense let alone “It’s talk about the right thing to do.” or long-term caredisrupting insurance, medical do you andit’syour yourconsider retirement planning and treatments current Schmieder, possible that y choices such as hybrid forms When of lifeyou in-have that parents or avoided at them — especially Still, if you’re that with person, haven’t you living needs. figure,want to be used understand the company’s fin surance and health savingsyour accounts, or the there end any of your lives?Whom do may you be aware, sometimes wished you could just say no? Maybe consider other priorities. Are “Not everyone family. Nonetheless, simply more? to be your healthcare proxy if you have other priorities to deal with or yousave and invest lifestyle changes you may needwant to make in order company owners have an obli Review your choices with your finanyou are unable to communicate your doubt the money will be used wisely. Or you’re to keep giving to family during tough times? their profits into their busines that conversation is cial advisor, who Most can help you ensure wishes? You healthcare power convinced that your kids will learn more by important, before you give, be sure to can set use agrowth,” he says. Use this opp critical tosaving have. yourit’s retirement and other goals of attorney and a livingthat willthe to document for that desired purchase —that whether aside anany emergency fund for yourself to help company’s profits are Lisa Margeson, head of retirement andcushion communication, Merrill aren’t put in jeopardy. your choices. And begin about a house, a car or a vacation — on By their own. ensure that you willclient haveexperience a comfortable for thinking gifts or loans. in retirement. how you want to pass As on you your legacy each — request Naturally, you’ll always want to be there for your consider 2. WILL OUR PARENTS HAVE THE CARE and otherwise. family members when they need you, but there 3. Set firm yes. Decide in important to remember that t 1 guidelines for saying financial million earlyTHEY adultsNEED in AS THEY Additionally, • Start saving for retirement and no debt. GROW OLDER? approximately aving a plan inThere place are that75you’ve are times when it does make sense to politely advance under what circumstances you would family members will have a d million turning 18 andstruggle 1 in 4 early adults with a retirement advantage of having longevity on put together asAmerica, a familywith can 4free Many people aging parents’ say no, even to those closest to you. If you’re feelwith comfortable giving or lending money. your retirement planning. The everyone up to focus on each other, unwillingness to face their limitations. entering early adulthood each year. They plan have already made an early your unwritten side. Contribute to says an empl considered “the bank” in your family, here are “If you’re going to make a gift of the money, fifth rule, Hun instead of worrying about where the moneyof the That’s why it can be wise to bring up make up one-third workforce, so withdrawal, primarily to cover debt. sponsored savings plan such as four useful tips. think about using the occasion as a teaching being overly generous, or you will come from should you, or an aging these issues early. moment,” Ask specific questions suggests Hunter. Without sounding needing financial help yourse their financial health is something that 401(k) — at least at a level that m understandably concerned parent or spouse, fall Rules ill. “The time to Bank like: At what pointParents Four of best the Family would or itare make sense try to explain preachy judgmental, to your can affect not just themselves but the any company match. talk about these1.matters is before you needwith your Start talking about money forchildren you to stop driving, to have a careaboutortheir children’s wellbeing relative how you’ve put yourself in and a position to economy as a whole. to,” notes Cynthia director of regulartaker whenHutchins, they are young. “Set up family come in to provide help with meals? Have have been supporting themyou financially. • Talk to your local Merrill advisor, thisthe assistance. kept your debt meetings to discuss life skills, including financial gerontology at Bank of America. Kate the Wilber, professor of gerontology at under control, foramount instance, or lived within your can assist with putting together The aggregate spent by A new study from Merrill and Age earning, saving,tospending, investingthe andUniversity sharing of Southern Below are four questions help you California — means or avoided high-interest credit is cards? parents their early adult children plan to help pursue your goals. Wave, Adulthood: The of money. What“Early role does money play inPursuit yourDavis School start having these important family talks Leonard of on Gerontology, “For young adults in the family, this could be 2 a enormous — rebuffed. over $500 billion annually. family’s life? How do Independence,” your financial says. decisions of Financial finds with your spouse, your children, your “Often, at first, you’lllesson,” be valuable he says. For more information, contact express your financial family’s values?” Stacy Allred, parents and your siblings. Use them to says This will likely take more than one that independence defines The outlook isn’t entirely bleak, as the “If you expect to be paid back, create a loan Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor head of adulthood the Merrill formore Family share your expectations with yourCenter family. conversation.” today — soWealth™. than the document,” Schmieder, majority ofrecommends early adults Joe (72C.percent) “From aadvisor young age, encourage Consult your financial about ways children to ask Eric F. Gonzales in the traditional milestones of employment, principal of thefrom Family Business say THE theyconsultant would benefit financial questions decisions you’re to prepare financially forabout the the healthcare 3. Wmaking HO WILL PROVIDE FOR MORE CA,INFORMATION officeinformation, con For more Consulting Group. This may include details on Napa, homeownership or starting a family. IF IT that they begin to understand the CAREGIVING, IS NEEDED? costs that maysooccur. Andcan keep talking guidance. Here is some advice to Contact early Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor how frequently repayments will be made and at 707.254.4606 Merrill Lynch Financial Ad However, 80 percent of early adults recommends reasoning behind them and develop sound as years go by and circumstances change. Hutchins that siblings Eric F. Gonzales in thebNapa, CA office at adults to help their pursuit of financial whether interest will be charged. If the family or eric_gonzales@ml.com. Eric Gonzales in the money management habits of theirshould own.” talk among themselves about how While no one can know the being say it’sfuture, harder to become financially 707-254-4606 or eric_gonzales@ml.com. independence: member has asked you to invest in a business, Napa, CA, office Withmight that background, they may have more prepared for what come nextthan canit they’ll share the caregiving role. “You independent was for previous request a business plan or other formal details realistic expectations if four they do someday find at 707.254.4606 make the road ahead easier. Here are want to be sure that both your parents • Create and stick to a budget. Track generations, and their baby boomer on how the money will be used. “It’s important themselves in astart financial bind and consider questions that can help you having and your own needs are considered. or eric_gonzales@ml.com and manage your expenses, and that the recipient understands your terms,” parents agree. for help. these importantasking familyyou conversations. Sometimes it makes sense to cobble identify areas where you can make Hunter says. 2. CreateOne a budget giving.complicating Even if you pass majorforhurdle early adjustments fund 4. When you musttosay no, your avoid goals. making it personal. 1 Center for Retirement Research at Boston C on your own sound money management habits, adults’ path to financial independence Instead of blaming family members for their “How Does Student Debt Affect Early Caree there are bound to be times when relatives • Pay down your debt. Pay high-interest, Retirement Saving?” 2018. mounting levels debt. financial troubles questioning their plans, Investing involves risk. always the potential ofoflosing money when you invest in securities. Asset or allocation, diversification and rebalancing do not ensure a profit willThere needisisyour help, and you’ll want toInbefact, in

The Pursuit of Happiness: Early Adults Want Financial Independence

deductible first (e.g., 2 or protect against loss in declining markets. 18 Merrill, its affiliates, and financial do not provide legal, taxdebt or accounting advice. You should consult your legal“The and/Financial Journ Age Wave/Merrill Lynch. Americans to 34 hold more than advisors non-tax credit cards) and other or tax advisors before making any financial decisions. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (alsothen referred to asnon-tax “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes certain Parenting: Joy,available Complexity and Sacrifice,” 20 $1.5 trilliondistributed of debt. This indebtedness investment products Neither sponsored, managed, provided Group, by companies that are ofdebt Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered AgeWave nor Family BusinessorConsulting Inc. are affiliates ofaffiliates Bank of America Corporation. deductible (e.g., an auto loan). is having effects, with broker-dealer, Member SIPC and a whollymajor ownedripple subsidiary of BofA Corp. Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc. (“MLLA”) is a licensed insurance agency and a wholly owned Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or subsidiary of BofA Corp. Trust and fiduciary services are provided by Bank of America a division of Bank of America, N.A., FDIC, or U.S. Trust early adults contributing only half •Private Bank, Plan for contingencies such asSIPC health that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, Member and Member a wholly owned subsidiary ofCompany BofA Corp. of Delaware. Both are wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation. Investment products offered through MLPF&S, and insurance and annuity products offered the amount to their 401(k)s when emergencies. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value through MLLA:: Are Not FDIC Insured

Not Bank Guaranteed compared toAretheir colleagues who have

May Lose Value

| MAP2893828 | WP-06-20-0319 | 472503PM-0420 | 06/2020 Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity

to be missed! Allegria offers a great assortment of delicious desserts, including the And, we tiramisu. offer interesting small plates and salads, rotisserie meats and poultry and classic homemade seasonal entrees with a C CASA twist.

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

707-226-7700 | www.myccasa.com

special special dining dining

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 Anfrom American style grill united with quality andtheir freshness. Our culturally eats originating Turkeyon and Greece, lands heralded for Inn. Enjoy exciting an unforgettable dining 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. The seasonally influenced menu features flavors from the proudly feature salads, 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/

挀漀漀欀

琀愀瘀攀爀渀 ☀

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

瀀椀稀稀攀爀椀愀

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 dishes and neapolitan-inspired pizza .house Perfectmade for proudlysalads, featurepizza’s salads,along burgers, steaks, decadent tion of antipasta’s, withsandwiches, freshly madeseafood, 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

71 81

discover dining+

80 70

AMERICAN CUISINE MEXICAN / TEX-MEX GASTROPUB & NANOBREWERY

CA' MOMIisOSTERIA provides Napa Valley with an obsessively authentic Italian CA MOMI a traditional Italianthe & organic food restaurant serving premium, locallyexperience. Theyingredients serve up locally-sourced organic ingredients featured in their sourced, organic whenever possible in support of local purveyors and historic Italian recipes, certified pizzaValley. Napoletana and garden to glass cocktails, all like-minded businesses across Napa in the heart of downtown Napa. Ca’ Momi Osteria also offers tastings of Ca’ Momi Napa Valley and Italian wines plus late night live music each weekend.

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.

1141 First Street Street,Napa Napa,CA CA94559 94559 | 707-224-6664 | www.camomi.com 1141 First (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/

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

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

to be missed! Allegria offers a great assortment of delicious desserts, including the classic homemade tiramisu.

1026 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 707-254-8006 | www.ristoranteallegria.com

special special dining dining

RL mediterranean grill

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

80 70

discover dining+

al dining ial dining section section

AMERICAN GRILL & BAR AMERICAN CUISINE ITALIAN AMERICAN GRILL & BAR DOWNTOWN JOES - An American style grill united with quality and freshness. Our NAPA is GENERAL STORE -then Refreshing locals andflair visitors since 2002. Our riverside menu locally resourced cooked with the that is true Napa Valley. WeOurpatio DOWNTOWN JOES - An style grill united withthrough quality and freshness. IL POSTO TRATTORIA - We offer theAmerican traditional italian experience food, is an ideal spot for 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 in the beautiful Napa Valley. Our menu offers a variety slecfamily. Join for breakfast or lunch week - and our 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 along with freshly made pasta dishes. end brunch. Come for the food, stay for 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

S I LV E R A D O

R E S O R T

A N D

S P A

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 (11an amexciting to 3 pm) andfor onelocals of theand best NAPKINS - An American cuisine restaurant with 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

SPRING 2021

B R I NG N A PA VA LLE Y to YOUR FRONT DOOR WINTER 2019

the

18th annual

Intriguing Issue PLUS+

Tuck Beckstoffer In Pursuit of Excellence Jack London Square: Oakland’s Urban Wine Country Atlas Peak AVA Uncompromising, Rugged Beauty 1

subscribe TODAY

1 YEAR • 6 ISSUES $12 // 2 YEARS • 12 ISSUES $19 // 3 YEARS • 18 ISSUES $25

NAPAVALLEYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM/SUBSCRIPTIONS/

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Photo by Bob McClenahan

WINTER 2019

Bob McClenahan

photography

________________________

bobmcclenahan.com

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Napa Valley Life Magazine - Spring 2021 Issue

Articles inside

Abide: Napa's Cannabis Sommelier

Airocide

Sugar+Lemon

di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art

Napa Valley's Fine Art Scene

Featured Artist: Quinn Saine

The Joel Toller Team

Napa Valley Country Club

Cooking with Karen Crouse

Diamond Mountain Vineyard

Napa's Best Fried Chicken and Wings

Elan Fayard: Azur

Wallis Family Estate

Baldacci Vineyards

Falcone Family Vineyards

California Brandy House

A Tribute to Napa Legend Steven Spurrier

Share a Splash

Castellucci

Inside Track: What the Locals are Doing

Calendar of Events