11 minute read
Napa Valley Country Club
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.”
Napa 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.” 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.”
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,”
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
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 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.”
Chris Kubicka Director of Tennis
Heather Vigil Sales & Marketing Director FOR MORE INFORMATION napavalleycc.com
Ari Kreisler NVCC General Manager
Steven Tevere Executive. Chef and Food & Beverage Director
Captivating
CARMEL-by-the-SEA
BY FRAN MILLER
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.
Astorybook 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
La Playa Carmel
The Pocket Bistro Giovanni
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 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. 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)
