Napa Valley Life Magazine - Summer 2021 Issue by napavalleylifemagazine

SUMMER 2021

the

PHILANTHROPY ISSUE PLUS+

ONEHOPE Wine Making Wine to Change the World Spring Mountain AVA Reemerging with Resilience Sauvignon Blanc Napa’s Stylish White Varietal

SUMMER 2021

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SUMMER 2021

“ 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 NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

Contents

F E AT U R E S / / S U M M E R 2 0 2 1 / / T H E P H I L A N T H R O P Y I S S U E

Story 30 Cover ONEHOPE Wine:

Rooted in Purpose

Annual 34 Second Philanthropy Issue

Honoring Napa’s Community Leaders

56 Sauvignon Blanc Exploring Napa Valley’s Aromatic White Grapes

Viticultural 62 American Area (AVA) Series Spring Mountain Makes a Comeback

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

SU MM ER 20 21

the

PHILAN ISSUE THROPY PLUS+

ONEHOPE Wine Making Wi ne Change the to World Spring Mountain AV Reemerging A with Resilien ce Sauvignon Bla Napa’s Stylis nc White Varie h tal SUMMER 2021

SUMMER 2021

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Now Leasing: Modern, Refined Senior Residences. Summer savings up to $30,000 Rental rates starting at $3,995 At The Watermark at Napa Valley, a modern community for seniors, an enriching new chapter awaits among the region’s famed vineyards and wineries. Here, Independent Living and Assisted Living mean luxurious living, thanks to refined residences, expert care, upscale culinary experiences, even a fitness center, salon, and spa. And it’s all just minutes from vibrant shopping, farm-totable dining, and more, with professional concierge service to arrange activities and outings. It’s an environment where residents can live well—and stay well. To schedule your private tour and learn about our exclusive offers, please contact us at (707) 345-1480 or email us at NapaValleyContact@ watermarkcommunities.com

watermarknapa.com 4055 Solano Ave., Napa, CA 94558 | 707-345-1480 INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING

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NVL contents NV Scene • 12

What's Been Happening Around Town

Things To Do

16 Calendar of Events 17 Inside Track: What the Locals are Doing 20 Enjoy Napa Valley: Exploring Napa's History on the Napa River 22 Safari West: A Taste of Africa in Wine Country

D E PA R T M E N T S / / S U M M E R 2 0 2 1 / / T H E P H I L A N T H R O P Y I S S U E

What’s Hot • 26 Special Features

24 Wine Country Day Pre-School: Celebrating 40 Years 78 Mendocino: Majestic Redwoods and Pinot Magic

Drink

49 A Taste of History 60 St. Supéry 66 Sherwin Family Vineyards 67 Keenan Winery 68 Pride Mountain Vineyards 69 Fantesca Estate & Winery Wine and Winemaker Spotlights 48 Miner Family Winery 50 Piña Napa Valley 52 Sullivan Rutherford Estate 54 Tres Sabores

Eat

70 Napa Valley's Best Vegetarian and Vegan 74 Cooking with Karen Crouse 75 Cherish Market Garden & Orchard 76 New West KnifeWorks

Real Estate

82 Napa Tracy Style: Move Into Your Dream House Using Prop. 19

People & Art

84 Time Howe: The Artist of Napa

Shop Local

86 Tay & Grace 88 Be Bubbly

Health & Wellness 90 Molly's Angels

Money & Wealth

92 Merrill Lynch: Will Your Social Security Benefits Be Taxed?

Dining Guide • 94 6

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Another UpValley Property in Contract

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

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Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. SUMMER Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated.

2021

NVL editor's letter

Blessed Summer T

Photo by Bob McClenahan

here’s much to be thankful for this summer. Wine country is bustling, businesses have re-opened, post-fire reparations are making headway, and everyday face masks are transitioning from life-saving apparatus to fashion accessories. The raw memories of our lives in pandemic captivity or at the mercy of CalFire Alerts are becoming more distant—and we all count our blessings. With so much to be thankful for, it is with great pride we present our second annual Philanthropy issue to honor some of the amazing people and business leaders who’ve gone above and beyond to give back to our community, especially during the times when the curveballs were coming fast. Our cover story about the founders of ONEHOPE Wine and its CEO, Jake Kloberdanz, exemplifies how a Napa winery pays it forward. Through their innovative Cause Entrepreneur Program, a spectacular new winery in Rutherford, and their 20/20 Collective, learn about how the ONEHOPE team takes a collective approach to democratize the Napa Valley winery experience to create job opportunities and raise millions of dollars for charities and nonprofits year-round. We’re thrilled to share our AVA series featuring Spring Mountain. It was initially scheduled for our October 2020 Harvest issue but was postponed due to the Glass Fire in September. This spring, when we revisited some of the small family wineries that have built their lives on Spring Mountain, we discovered how their unwavering commitment to survival and each other have been instrumental to their remarkable resurgence and their incredible wines. Our grape variety series takes us on a crisp and refreshing adventure exploring one of Napa Valley’s oldest yet esteemed white grapes, Sauvignon Blanc. Introduced from France to the region back in the 1800s, its evocative aromatics and dynamic flavor profiles lend to its role as both an elegant blending grape and a revered varietal that triumphantly stands on its own. With hot summer months approaching, enjoy a northern adventure and take a drive to Mendocino to see the majestic redwoods and picturesque Pacific coastlines while stopping to taste some of California’s exceptional wines from Booneville, Philo, and Anderson Valley. For those in the know, fresh ocean air and fine wine are among California’s perfect pairings.

Cheers!

Laura Larson Editor

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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

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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.

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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

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T KebYra O ti U ng N A P A ea V Ars L L• •E• Y • •H• A Nel

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 Christopher Sawyer Michael Koehn Nicole Marino Don Sonderling CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Art & Clarity - Lowell Downey and Janna Waldinger Bob McClenahan ABOUT THE COVER CEO Jake Kloberdanz and ONEHOPE Wine Co-Founders enjoy a toast at their new winery in Rutherford Cover and Cover Story Photos By: Taylor Hotter

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

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Made for more exploration

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.

Register for a free minimally invasive joint-replacement webinar today at AdventistHealthJointCare.org/Seminars SUMMER 2021

NV scene

NV Scene

The Napa Valley scene and what's been happening around town. FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEYNOVACK CONCERTS FOR KIDS

Tabea Debus

# PHOTOS COURTESY OF FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

Festival Napa Valley hosted an engaging, diverse line up for the Spring 2021 Concerts for Kids. With the generous support of Deborah and Kenneth Novack of St. Helena, the free concert series which was geared toward students, teachers and families, ran from February through May. The program, which was offered in both Spanish and English, included one-of-a-kind performances, music workshops, audio visual games, digital concerts, and enrichment activities with the performers and composers. Highlights included SOUNDSHAPES, a music-driven interactive video game. Compose Her, a music composition and history workshop with composer Nia Imani Franklin, and bi-lingual meet-the-artist conversations with members of the Mexican Roots ensemble Los Cenzontles and chamber orchestra, Sphinx Virtuosi. // festivalnapavalley.org

Soundshapes

Nia Franklin

Cinthya Cisneros of La Cheve

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SUMMER 2021

NV scene

Chris Sawyer and Robert Biale

Black Chicken Vineyard

ROBERT BIALE TOASTS 21ST ‘LEGAL’ BIRTHDAY OF BLACK CHICKEN ZINFANDEL

On May 13th, Vintner Bob Biale and Napa sommelier personality Chris Sawyer hosted a celebratory toast to Biale Vineyards 2019 Black Zinfandel, marking the 21st year his family’s legacy wine and vineyard were made official in 1999. The Black Chicken vineyard is one of Napa Valley’s endearing family legacy history stories made famous by Bob’s father, Aldo, who, at the age of 14, began making boot-leg wine from the family vineyard since its first vintage in 1943. The name was coined from a code name for the illegal wine ordered by customers over a party phone line along with other farm sundries so as not to reveal its identity. // biale.com

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Aldo Biale and Bob Biale

BY ROUND BARN

ROUND BARN S A N T A

R O S A

Each home at Round Barn is unique, and the biophilic design at Terrace takes it several steps further by adding the indoor-outdoor spaces that transform everyday life. The den opens to a deep patio, perfect for weekend barbecues. Upstairs, the living room reveals an expansive deck and the dining room features a breeze-catching balcony. Imagine the al fresco suppers, cool morning coffee and star-gazing evening you’ll enjoy. Terrace’s other distinctions make it even more enticing: GE® stainless steel kitchen, solar system and Alula Connect are all included. This is the design that changes everything, from how you relax in your home to how you’ll share it with friends. Make it a priority to add more sunlight and breezes to your future at Terrace by Round Barn.

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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. SUMMER 2021

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.

KT Tunstall to appear with Blue Note Concert Series at Charles Krug Winery

July 7-11

NAPA TOWN & COUNTRY FAIR

Napa Town & Country Fair is slotted to be back at the Napa Valley Expo. Featuring more than 31,000 square feet of prime showrooms located in four buildings with plenty of outdoor exhibit space, this event is popular for locals and visitors alike, all in the heart of Wine Country. For updates and tickets: napavalleyexpo.com July -August

BLUE NOTE CONCERT SERIES AT CHARLES KRUG WINERY

The Blue Note continues its concert series collaboration with Charles Krug Winery with new shows added through the summer. The venue will host two shows per night and seat 260 people socially distanced at bistro-style tables for parties of 2,4 or 6 people. Summer shows include: June 12-13- Damien Escobar, June 19- Karl Denson’s Tiny 16

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Jennifer Hudson to appear at Festival Napa Valley

Universe, July 9-11- Kenny G, July 25KT Tunstall, Aug 21-22- Taj Mahal For tickets and show schedule: bluenotenapa.com July 16-25

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

Festival Napa Valley returns to live season for ten full days of featured performances by Jennifer Hudson, Michael Fabiano, Roberto Bolle, Lisette Oropesa, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Nia Imani Franklin, among others. Marking the Festival’s 15th anniversary and celebrating the return to live events, all tickets for evening concerts on Festival stages at Charles Krug and the Culinary Institute of America at Copia will be $15. All daytime concerts will be admission-free (reservations required). All events will be performed outdoors To view the full schedule and purchase tickets and passes, visit: FestivalNapaValley.org.

Kenny G to appear with Blue Note Concert Series at Charles Krug Winery // Photo by Chapman Baehler

August 2-22

MUSIC IN THE VINEYARDS VIRTUAL FESTIVAL

For the first time in its 25-year history, Music in the Vineyards (MITV) will present its chamber music festival virtually. In this streamed venue, ‘MITV@Home’ will feature free access to exclusive performances from treasured musicians worldwide while also providing them with compensation during these difficult times. The event series will feature a mix of self-recorded performances, insightful feature stories, and interviews with the musicians. Each concert will be hosted from Napa Valley winery venues and will include conversations about the wine with the winemakers and an opportunity to purchase discounted wine in advance to enjoy during the concert. For more information, visit: Musicinthevineyard.org

Inside Track August 5-8

V FOUNDATION WINE CELEBRATION

The 2021 V Foundation Wine Celebration returns to Napa Valley from August 5-8, offering several days of wine, food, fun, and cancer research awareness. The 2021 series of events includes a thoughtprovoking cancer symposium, wine receptions, lunches, and dinners at exclusive valley estates such as Far Niente, Alpha Omega, Nickel & Nickel and Louis Martini, and walkaround culinary events featuring the region’s world-renowned vintners, chefs, and restaurateurs. Friday’s Rock the V party includes a barrel auction, a BBQ Showdown with local vintners, and live music. For more information and tickets, visit: winecelebration.org August 17-19

LIVE IN THE VINEYARD GOES COUNTRY

Live in the Vineyard returns to Napa - Country Style. (LITVGC) takes place amongst the lush scenery of the legendary Napa Valley with three days and two nights of exclusive, intimate events featuring musical performances and epicurean experiences like no other. LITVGC pairs exclusive access to today’s hottest country artists with Napa Valley’s celebrated winemakers and world-renowned chefs during an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime event.

What the Locals are Doing Riva Cucina Chef Massi and wife, Jen, owners of Michelin recommended Riva Cucina in Berkeley, share their sustainable, locally sourced Emilia Romagna cuisine with the locals in Napa through their pop-up delivery service. Their weekly menu includes fresh handmade pastas, braised meats, bottled cocktails, rosemaryinfused olive oil, and more. All food is prepped and oven/stove ready for easy finishing at home. Pick up at River Terrace in Napa or home delivery in Yountville. // RIVACUCINA.COM/NAPAVALLEY

Madeleines Macarons Madeleines Macarons became the successful outcome of Bistro Jeanty chef, Dennis McIninch’s serendipitous attempt to bake macarons for his wife Aubrey for Valentine’s Day while sheltering in place during the 2020 COVID pandemic. After spending quality time with his daughter Madeleine (Maddie) fine tuning the delicate, flavorful French confections and selling them with much acclaim from the community, the family opted to go into the macaron baking business full time. Locals clamor to their macaron stand at the Napa’s Farmers Market for the latest offerings, as well as local gourmet stores such as Oakville Grocery and Gary’s Marketplace. // MADELEINESMACARONS.COM • @MADDIESMACS

Makers Market Open Air Artisan Fair Shop 30+ Local artisans with the best jewelry, ceramics, scarves, candles, CBD products, organic body, home goods, apparel, glass, floral arrangement artisans and more every third Saturday on First Street Napa. Enjoy live music – dogs and kids welcome. All health protocols are followed to socialize and shop while being safe. Every third Saturday 10 am -5 pm. // FIRST STREET, DOWNTOWN NAPA

Music in the Vineyards Thalea String Quartet

St. Helena Farmers Market On May 7 St. Helena Farmers Market kicked off the 2021 season on Fridays at Crane Park. The market runs from 7:30 am until 12:00 pm and features a diverse representation of ~ 50 local growers, artisans, specialty food purveyors and community non-profit groups with educational programs starting in June. The market will run until October 29, 2021 and will operate within the scope of social distancing guidelines. // 360 CRANE AVE., ST. HELENA • STHELENAFARMERSMKT.ORG

Yountville Locals Day Every Thursday, live like a local and enjoy special offers from Yountville Businesses. Each participating business has cooked up something special to show Napa Valley residents how much they are appreciated. Enjoy special wine pours, family-style dinners, free corkage, exclusive shopping experiences, and more. // YOUNTVILLE.COM/LOCALSDAY

WEN H EN UEPKE WH UPK E P IE S P IS WHEN UPKEEP I S F UF LU F ILFILLING L L I NG FULFI LLI NG

W HE Efor PisaIS “The best for thing trailMartin is use,” Martin “The N best UPKE thing a trail use,” “The best thing for a trail is use,” Martin says. “ToFuse love it, and that once that F UL I“To Lit Lisuse ItoNG says. it is to loveonce it, and says. “To use it is to love it, and once that love deepens, the maintenance is easy. is easy. love deepens, the maintenance

Trailscape Trailscape

love deepens, the maintenance is easy. “The best a trail clients is use,” Martin We thing have for multiple who run major Wehave have multiple clients whomajor run major We multiple clients who run says. “To use it is to love it, and corporations. When theyonce are that out on their corporations. When they are out their corporations. When they areonout on their love deepens, thethey maintenance is easy. property, release the pressures of property, they release the pressures of We have multiple clients who run major property, they release the pressures of their everyday work by improving a creek their everyday work by improving a creek corporations. When they are out on their theirclearing everyday work byorimproving a creek crossing, a view spot moving crossing, clearing a view of spot or moving property, they release the pressures a fallen tree. It isclearing gratifying crossing, a labor view with spot or moving their everyday worktree. by improving a creek a fallen It is gratifying labor with immediate results.” a fallen tree. It is gratifying labor with crossing, clearing a view spot or moving immediate results.” results.” a fallen tree.immediate It is gratifying labor with immediate results.”

PERSON A L I Z EZED D PERSONALI PAT H WAY S PATHWAYS PERS PE RS ON AL ION Z E DALIZ E D PATHWAYS PATHWAYS

“To be“To outdoors on one’s land is an is enriching way to connect to nature, but but A good trail trail design will will consider... be outdoors on one’s land an enriching way to connect to nature, A good design consider... also loved ones.” This is the thought that drives Randy Martin and his team at also loved ones.” This is the thought that drives Randy Martin and his team at “To be outdoors on one’s land isbespoke an enriching way toproperties connect to throughout nature, but California. trail design will consider... Trailscape, who create intricate paths for To be outdoors on one’s land isintricate an enriching way to Martin connect to nature, butCalifornia. A good • Age: bespoke properties A good trail design will consider... • Age: also Trailscape, loved ones.”who Thiscreate is the thought that drives paths Randyfor and his throughout team at “We carve out sustainable trails that protect from fire and encourage full enjoyment When it comes to designing a trail, “We carve out sustainable trails that protect from fire and encourage full enjoyment also lovedTrailscape, ones.” This is the thought that drives Randy Martin and his team at When it comes to designing a trail, who create intricate bespoke paths for properties throughout California. • Age: of natural spaces,” Martin says. says. thought must be given to the user. A trail of natural spaces,” Martin “We carve out sustainable trails that protect from fire and encourage full enjoyment Trailscape, who create intricate bespoke paths for properties throughout California. When it comes thought must be given to the to designing a trail, • Age:grandchildren, providinguser. A trail to attract of natural spaces,” Martin says. to attract grandchildren, must be given to the user. A providing trail We carve outthe sustainable trails thatisprotect from and encourage full enjoyment While those benefits no is small thingfire - Trailscape creations helped to to thought When it for comes to designing trail, Whilefirst theoffirst of those benefits no small thing - Trailscape creations helped opportunities small discoveries andaand opportunities for small discoveries to attract grandchildren, providing of natural spaces,” Martin says. save eight separate homes during the recent Glass Fire in St. Helena and Sonoma thought be given todifferent the user. A trail save homesisduring thething recent Glass Fire in St. Helena While the eight first ofseparate those benefits no small - Trailscape creations helpedand to Sonoma - opportunities delights, going to be different delights, is must going to quite be quite forissmall discoveries and the second is the isphilosophy in which the firm’s work isSt. rooted. “We connect save eight separate homes during the recent Glass Fire in Helena and “We Sonoma -whatwhat delights, the second the philosophy in which the firm’s work is rooted. connect from a path that efficiently guides one to to to attract providing isfrom going be grandchildren, quite different guides a to path that efficiently one exists, however impassable, with what is firm’s waiting to be the second is the philosophy inno which the work is beyond rooted. “We connect what While the first of those benefits is small thing -just Trailscape creations helped to exists, however impassable, with what is waiting just beyond toexperienced, be experienced, outbuildings. from avarious path that efficiently guides one todiscoveries and opportunities for small various outbuildings. explored and managed for human flourishing.” Turning to be byby exists, however impassable, with what is waiting just beyond tocorner be experienced, explored and managed for human flourishing.” Turning the corner tosurprised be surprised various outbuildings. save eight separate homes during the recent Glass Fire inthe St. Helena and Sonoma delights, is going to be quite different and managed forunexpectedly human flourishing.” Turning the corner toclearing be surprised by by by a explored unique-looking branch; finding a light-filled clearing surrounded unique-looking unexpectedly surrounded • Activities: • Activities: he second isa the philosophybranch; in which the firm’sfinding work aislight-filled rooted. “We connect what from a path that efficiently guides one to a unique-looking branch; finding a light-filled clearing surrounded by towering trees...trees... these areunexpectedly the of small joy Trailscape aims to bring. • Activities: towering these aremoments the moments of small joy Trailscape aims to bring. HowHow people will will use use the the space is, of people space is, of exists, however impassable, with what is waiting just beyond to be experienced, towering trees... these are the moments of small joy Trailscape aims to bring. various outbuildings. How people will useimportant. the space is, ofour client course, also “If course, also important. “If our client explored and managed for human flourishing.” Turning the corner to be surprised bycourse, also important. “If our client wants to do lota of we’llwe’ll make wants toado lothiking, of hiking, make a unique-looking branch; unexpectedly finding a light-filled clearing surrounded by wants their to do a lot of hiking, we’ll make • their Activities: trail trail a little straighter andand steeper a little straighter steeper their trail a little straighter and steeper owering trees... these are the moments of small joy Trailscape aims to bring. thanthan we would for afor family ofthe runners,” How people will is, of we would a use family of space runners,” than we would for a family of runners,” Martin says. “And a cycling trail meanders Martin says. “And a cycling trail meanders also important. “If our client Martin says.course, “And a cycling trail meanders and and undulates more, including wide, undulates including wide, and undulates more, wide, wants toincluding do more, a lot of hiking, we’ll make round turns.” round turns.” round turns.”

88 homes now 8 homes now homes now saved from saved from saved from fire byby fire fire 8 homes now Trailscape Trailscape Trailscape saved from trails trails trails

fire by Trailscape 18

NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM

their trail a little straighter and steeper than we would for a family of runners,” Martin says. “And a cycling trail meanders Top, left: Trails are a relaxing way to in take an incredible Top, left: Trails areTrails a relaxing to takeway in an incredible Top, left: are away relaxing to take aninincredible and more, including view. Trailscape can makeundulates the make trail funrompin’ if you want. Trailscape canrompin’ make the trail rompin’ youwide, want. view. view. Trailscape can the trail fun iffun youif want. Top, right: This land was unnavigable, now look at Top, right: This landunnavigable, was unnavigable, now look Top, right: This land was now look at at round turns.” it! Bottom: When flames were roaring though this area, it! Bottom: When flames were roaring though this area, it! Bottom: When flames were roaring though this area,

the client stopped the fire with garden ata the fire hose the client stopped thewith firehose garden the fire the client stopped theafire awith garden hose at theatfire break trail. All break photography of Trailscape. trail. Allcourtesy photography courtesy of Trailscape.

break trail. All photography courtesy of Trailscape.

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NVL things to do

ENJOY NAPA VALLEY An Insider’s Guide to the Napa River’s Hidden History

 BY ELIZABETH SMITH

fter having spent over a year in intermittent isolation due to the pandemic, the appeal of being in Napa Valley includes not only visiting worldclass wineries and restaurants but also a longing to spend more time outdoors in the area’s temperate Mediterranean climate. In 2013, Napa native Justin Perkins found a way to do just that when he launched his 20

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outdoor tour company, Enjoy Napa Valley. Enjoy Napa Valley was the brainchild of Perkins’ passion for his hometown’s natural beauty and history and offers a plethora of ways to explore Napa’s great outdoors through guided or self-navigated tours by bicycle, paddleboard, kayak, or gondola. For the adventurous explorer, bicycle, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are also

available. Tour options include the Napa River History Tour, Standup Paddleboard Eco-Tour, and Napa River Gondola Cruises, which Perkins schedules in two-hour increments- the first hour as the guided tour and the second to allow guests to leisurely explore and paddle on their own. In the early years, Perkins quickly learned that Napa’s history went beyond

that of the wine industry. “It became apparent that Napa has an incredible history that nobody was talking about, and it is related to the Napa River,” he said. At the time, I also had decided to focus more on kayaking since it drew the highest demand. So, I came up with the idea of offering the Napa River History Tour.” His vision paid off. Today it has grown to become the most popular among both visitors and locals. During the Napa River History tour, Perkins and his team of guides reveal what he calls “Napa’s most provocative secrets,” including “hidden history,” some of which even locals and longtime residents are unaware. Perkins shared that he often leads tours for childhood and longtime friends – at the locals’ special rate – and they are amazed at what they learn about the Napa River’s culture, history, and wildlife. Similar type tours have popped up around the nation and world, but Perkins’ background as a Napa native and longtime resident adds a unique, insider perspective to every excursion, continually ranking in the Top 20 Tours with Travelzoo and one of the most sought after locally, nationally and internationally. Every Enjoy Napa Valley tour is unique and tailored to the group's interests, demographics, and size. Perkins limits group size to a maximum of ten people to enable closer communication among the guide and participants and to be able to cater to individual interests. Some guests want to learn more about the area’s architectural, cultural, and Native American history. Others enjoy viewing the Oxbow Preserve, surrounding mountain ranges, tree-lined riverbanks, “peekaboo views” of vineyards, and spotting wildlife. Common sightings include Snowy Egrets, Great Blue Herons, beavers, deer, mink, otters, porpoises, rabbits, turtles, and over 58 different fish species. Because Napa Valley hospitality is of utmost importance, Perkins requires his tour guides to be friendly, kind, knowledgeable, and comfortable working with diverse groups of people from around the world. Rentals and tours include everything one needs for safety and comfort, like a variety of bicycle styles, kayaks for one

or two people, quick lessons for beginners, helmets, life jackets, and advice on appropriate clothing and accessories for each activity. For water rental and tours, Perkins reminds guests that they will get wet and to leave behind anything one does not want to lose. Enjoy Napa Valley operates year-round except Wednesdays and during highwind or rainy days, which are sometimes unexpected. The ideal time of year to go kayaking and paddle boarding is August through October when one can view the most migratory wildlife. During the off-season months of December through March, discounted seasonal pricing and gift cards are available for any of its rentals or tours.

When asked if kayaking could have an impact on one’s wellbeing, Perkins revealed, “I have noticed that since I have been working around the water every day, things that used to worry me do not anymore. The water is resilient. The more time we spend near it, the more resilient we become.” On Perkins’ radar for the future is the possibility of offering walking tours and night paddling.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Main Street Boat Dock // 670 Main St., Napa CA 94559 // 707-227-7364 // enjoynapavalley@gmail.com // enjoy-napa-valley.com SUMMER 2021

NVL things to do

The “Sonoma” Serengeti

SAFARI WEST

A Taste of Africa in the Heart of Wine Country  BY MARISA MCCANN

Photo by Ray Mabry

safari tour may be the ultimate bucket-list experience. It promises a brush with something magnificent and wild – a chance to glimpse a majestic southern white rhino, a herd of ambling giraffes, or a graceful gazelle break into a run. But these rare encounters do not require an international trip to the African Serengeti, rather a short jaunt to California’s Wine Country. Since 1993, Safari West Wildlife Preserve has brought the African safari experience closer to home. Nestled in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains in Santa Rosa, California, this wildlife preserve is home to

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900 animals from over 90 unique species, all roaming throughout the pristine 400-acre property. Founded by animal care experts and lifelong conservationists Peter and Dr. Nancy Lang, Safari West was the first step in the couple’s shared dream to introduce guests of all ages to wildlife education and conservation through an authentic safari adventure. Built from scratch on an abandoned winery and vineyard property, the Langs have grown their vision into a reality over the past two and a half decades. “Safari West is more than just a business to us,” said Nancy. “It’s our life’s work.”

At the core of the Safari West experience is the safari tour, a three-hour guided exploration by way of converted troop carriers. Away from crowds, one can take in the sights and sounds of the “Sonoma Serengeti” while riding through expansive, mixed-species enclosures. “We truly don’t know where we’ll find herds each day or what they’ll be up to when we do,” said Public Relations Director Aphrodite Caserta. “It’s never, ‘next up the zebra’ and always ‘next up, whatever we find next.” This element of surprise mimics an experience only found in the wild and goes far beyond a traditional zoo visit or any drivethrough park, leaving adventurists feeling excited, informed, and above all, inspired. For nature and animal-loving couples or families looking to fully immerse themselves in the unique and exotic world that Safari West has created, overnight camping is also available on the property. Thirty heavy-duty tents imported from Lobatse, Botswana, offer a combination of luxury with African-inspired comfort and design. Perched on high platforms with private decks, each tent provides vistas from above of all of Mother Nature’s beauty at work. Guests do not have to venture far from their secluded hideaways to view lemurs hanging from trees or antelope prancing across the wooded and grass-filled terrain, and nearby ponds and aviaries always teem with colorful birds like African and American flamingos. “We have been offering ‘glamping’ even before it was trendy,” said Nancy. “Our luxury campsite makes it feel like you’re in the jungle or on an African plain – waking up to the sounds of animals just outside.”

Conservation Conscious While wildlife education is an essential component of any Safari West experience, it is just the beginning of the preserve’s big-picture mission. Stemming from Peter and Nancy’s shared sentiment as stewards of African wildlife, Safari West upholds a deep commitment to conservation. “We’re not just interested in introducing people to animals,” said Nancy. “We want our guests to go home with an understanding of what’s at stake out there in our shared natural world and what all of us can do as individuals to help preserve and protect it.” Beyond the safari, conservation education takes center stage in countless private behindthe-scenes tours, including cheetah barn visits and face-to-face rhino encounters led

by trained naturalist ambassadors. Through these unrivaled and unpredictable wildlife viewing programs, Safari West visitors intimately share the passion from which the preserve was founded. While Safari West does their part to educate and inspire at home, they also support a wide range of conservation organizations worldwide. Associated non-profits include the Sahara Conservation Fund, working to reintroduce scimitar-horned oryx and addax antelope to the deserts of North Africa, and the Marine Mammal Center, working to conserve sea lions and seals on the California coastline. In addition to their world-class wildlife preserve, the Langs established the Safari West Wildlife Foundation. This charitable non-profit is dedicated to making Safari West and its animal inhabitants accessible to students everywhere. Through grantdriven programs, like grade-specific day camps and research internships, students of all ages are able to develop a deeper appreciation of the natural environment and wildlife conservation. The foundation has recently taken the wonder of Safari West into the digital age with their new Safari West Live! program, which emerged as a result of Covid-19. Partnering with children’s hospitals and underserved schools across the country, Safari West Live! broadcasts high-quality, livestream safari tours, bringing the excitement of being on a safari to the computer screens of youth virtually everywhere.

Plan Your Visit

King Safari Tent // Photo by Ray Mabry

Photo by Cheryl Crowley

Photo by Sarah-Jane Tarr

Safari West is one of the best venues for those who seek to embark on an African wildlife safari short of boarding a plane and flying there. A visit offers much of what one would expect of an African safari – guided open-air drive to see wildlife up close, luxe accommodations via canvas tents, and awe-inspiring wilderness views. The preserve is extremely accessible, located at the epicenter of California wine country and within a minute’s drive of the region’s finest wineries. Safari tours are offered daily year-round (excluding major holidays), and overnight stays are available daily from March through December. Private experiences, such as the “Winos and Rhinos” and “Brews and Buffalo” tours which blend impressive, locally sourced wine and craft beer with a rugged adventure, are also available year-round. FOR MORE INFORMATION

safariwest.com // 800-616-2695

Safari Tent at night // Photo by Ray Mabry

SUMMER 2021

NVL community

WINE COUNTRY DAY PRESCHOOL

Celebrating 40 Years in Early Childhood Education

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

ondra Asendorf is the vision behind Wine Country Day Preschool. A dedicated local educator with advanced degrees in education and curriculum development, her passion and expertise in early childhood education was channeled into the school’s founding. And fundamental to the shaping of that vision was Sondra’s belief in the profound and critical impact of early education on the development of each child and society as a whole. Since 1982, Sondra’s life work has focused on Wine Country Day Preschool. The private family-owned and -operated facility was founded to provide a place where curriculum, teachers, facility, training — and of course, the children — could all come together as a vibrant organization. Nearly 40 years later, that vision is still thriving. Sondra’s two daughters are proud to carry her passion forward. They indicate, “It’s about our Napa Valley community and providing a safe, nurturing environment for our children and parents; a place where a solid foundation is created and cultivated as they begin their educational journey. We admire and appreciate the legacy our mother has created in the valley, and we

Wine Country Day Preschool's mission is to provide personalized education that will inspire each child’s unique potential and desire for lifelong learning through a strong academic, social and environmental curriculum. want to see it continue to expand and thrive with each passing generation,” said administrators Sheri Jennum and CJ Kaialoa. Naturally, thousands of local families have passed through these doors over the decades. Both sisters speak with pride and joy about the fulfillment of former students, now parents, returning to enroll their own children at age two and, eventually, the milestone of transition to kindergarten when

they’re ready to depart at age five. They share these rewarding moments with Maria Duarte, Napa Site director, and Liz Bohan, over 30 years as a school director at the Yountville campus for children aged two to three years and a former school parent as well. Active learning is a hallmark of Wine Country Day Preschool, which upholds high quality as the gold standard in early childhood education. Importantly, “children have a lot of choices” in the HighScope preschool program, a creative process that embraces teachers as facilitators. School leadership believes that “Teachers are the foundation of any successful program, and we take great pride in our outstanding team of dedicated professionals.” In Yountville and Napa, the two locations are dedicated to different age groups. Both have indoor and outdoor facilities, lesson spaces, and playgrounds where age-appropriate play encourages learning, problem-solving, self-expression, music appreciation, and critical skills in language, math, art, science, and more. Programs are offered year-round on a morning-only or full-day basis, based on availability. Applications are now being accepted for 2021-2022 enrollment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION wcdkids.com // Yountville Site (for ages 2-3) 707-944-2244 // Napa Site (for ages 3-5) 707-252-9290 24

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NVL what's hot

Free People Free People is the latest retailer to join downtown Napa’s First Street shopping corridor. The global lifestyle brand defined by femininity, creativity, curiosity and adventure offers unique apparel, intimate wear, shoes and accessories as well as wellness, fitness, travel and curation of beauty starting from the inside out. FOR MORE INFORMATION

1214 First St., Napa // freepeople.com

Photo courtesy of Free People

Photo courtesy of George Napa

The George In Spring 2021, Napa welcomed its newest boutique hotel to Downtown: The George. This 9-room luxury inn is nestled away, but within walking distance to everything downtown has to offer; from exclusive wine tasting rooms, restaurants, the Uptown Theater, Napa Valley Opera House, Oxbow Market, and much more. This Victorian-era mansion, originally built in 1891, has undergone the last four years of renovations to finally be resurrected as Napa’s hottest place to stay in 2021. This reimagined historic property has captured a new balance of contemporary elegance, sophistication, and style, making The George a destination of its own. FOR MORE INFORMATION 492 Randolph St., Napa // thegeorgenapa.com

Ollies Artisan Baking Co. Ollies Artisan Baking Co. began as a business school project that kept growing during the COVID pandemic for Chef Adam Green when he started making and delivering his naturally leavened sourdough breads to the local Napa Community. Adam’s five-ingredient foundationorganic flour, filtered water, salt, starter, and love - goes into a wide variety of fresh baked loaves which change weekly and can be ordered on-line or via weekly subscription. Popular items include Overnight Blonde, Khorasan Sour, Country Wheat or Walnut, Pecan Cranberry. Plan ahead as items sell out fast. FOR MORE INFORMATION @olliesartisanbakingco // olliesartisanbakingco.com 26 NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM Photo courtesy of Ollies Artisan Baking Co.

local & organic ingredients

certified pizza napoletana

1141 first street, downtown napa, ca 707.224.6664 www.camomi.com ca’ momi winery & italian wines ~ garden to glass cocktails

Treasures await you at La Bohème!

ART • FURNISHINGS • VINTAGE • DÉCOR • JEWELRY • FASHION Proceeds from sales and donations support Collabria Care's programs for serious illness and end-of-life care.

1428 Main St., St. Helena 707.244.4686 Open Tue – Sat, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. SUMMER 2021

NVL what's hot

Bay Grape Husband and wife team Josiah Baldavino and Stevie Stacionis opened a second location of their popular Oakland wine shop, Bay Grape, on Solano Avenue. The shop specializes in small production, boutique wines from around the world, most at an approachable price point- between $20 and $50. The ever-changing list of labels offers interesting options for both collectors and novices looking for something different they can’t find in package stores. The shop also has a patio where patrons may enjoy any bottle they purchase for a $10 corkage fee or a glass or flight from the month’s featured producer. FOR MORE INFORMATION

2999 Solano Avenue, Napa // baygrapewine.com Photo by Mariana Calderon Photography

Photo by Emma K Morris

North Block This Spring, Yountville’s North Block ushered in a new restaurant celebrating contemporary California cuisine under the direction of Executive Chef Nick Tamburo, formerly with New York’s acclaimed Momofuko restaurant group. Chef Tamburo’s farm to table approach to cooking is seen through his seasonal menu featuring meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes infused with raw and smoky elements as well as wood-fired pizzas. General Manager Andy Wedge oversees the beverage program which spotlights local winemakers, craft beers, spirits and cocktails. The indoor/outdoor dining room touts an open kitchen and wood-burning pizza oven. For hotel guests, curated poolside experiences are in the works as are creative takes on inroom dining and pop-ups on property. FOR MORE INFORMATION northblockhotel.com // 6757 Washington St., Yountville

Mia Carta After much anticipation, Mia Carta, a destination wine collective showcasing some of Napa’s coveted micro-producing wineries, opened on downtown Napa’s bustling First Street. Launching with six vintners- Art House Wines, Essere Napa, Ilsley Vineyards, RARECAT Wines, Redmon Wines and Sciandri Family Vineyards- the newly architected tasting room boasts spacious options and alcoves for a variety of tasting experiences, often hosted by the vintner/owners. Open Thursday- Sunday 10 am- 7 pm FOR MORE INFORMATION

1209 First St., Napa // miacartanapavalley.com NAPAVALLEYLIFE.COM Photo28courtesy of Mia Carta

SUMMER 2021

ONEHOPE WINE “Rooted in Purpose”  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

| PHOTOS BY TAYLOR HOTTER

The Spa at The Estate Photo by Will Pryce

From L to R: ONEHOPE Wine Co-Founders Sarah McPeake, Kristen Shroyer, Brandon Hall, Jake Kloberdanz, Tiffany Wojtkiewicz, and Tom Leahy on their property in Rutherford. 30

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hank Grandma Sylvia. When most women did not work outside the home, Grandma Sylvia started a home-based business in Cleveland, Ohio, selling market research to local companies. Her entrepreneurial spirit laid the building blocks that would be the foundation of ONEHOPE Wine, a Rutherford winery dedicated to sharing wine and giving hope. Grandma Sylvia passed her ambitious ways on to her daughter and her grandson Jake Kloberdanz, who grew up with these remarkable women as role models for how to build a company and manifest dreams. Today, as the CEO and Co-Founder of ONEHOPE Wine, he's provided nearly ten-thousand (mostly women and moms) the opportunity to launch their own purpose-driven business in the wine industry. ONEHOPE has donated over $6 million while providing a platform to raise awareness and millions of direct donations to over 20,000 nonprofits over the last few years. After graduating from Berkeley, Jake joined E & J Gallo's Management Development Program and met seven similarly ambitious and talented up-andcomers. After completing training, Jake moved to Newport Beach, marketing and selling Gallo products in supermarkets. Jake helped down stack pallets and stock shelves during late nights and early mornings to build relationships with the key decision-makers. One day, while stocking a display of Campbell's Soup, he noticed a pink ribbon and an explanation that the purchase benefited the fight against breast cancer. That was the morning that the idea for ONEHOPE was born; a wine brand where the purpose is woven into the fabric of the brand. At first, Jake did what most people do when they have a great idea - nothing. But he was inspired to act six months later when one of his childhood friends shared the news that she had blood cancer. He flew home to see her the next day and told her he would start on his entrepreneurial journey while she went through her fight with cancer. He said, “It's all about intrinsic motivations – things beyond money that make you love what you do. I knew I wanted a business that was deeply rooted in a purpose beyond just the bottom line.” Seven of the teammates who started with him at Gallo joined him to found

and build a wine brand that would give back to charitable causes year-round. Five co-founders are still with ONEHOPE today – Brandon Hall, Tom Leahy, Tiffany Wojtkiewicz, Sarah McPeake, and Kristen Shroyer. For the first six months, they worked to establish their purpose – to nourish the future. Their mission is sharing wine and giving hope, and they decided that the values they would embrace are hope, unity, empowerment, and authenticity. They focused on opening a bank account, buying a pick up truck to transport wine, and getting a winery license. When asked how he began the process of building a brand based on philanthropy, Jake gave a 21st-century answer. “I googled winemaker and charity and found someone who was involved in several nonprofits.” An initial collaboration making wine in Sonoma with Winemaker David Elliott gave the team an excellent start. Things really heated up when they partnered with winemaker Robert (“Rob”) Mondavi, Jr., grandson of one of the most respected vintners in Napa Valley history, Robert Mondavi. Rob helped the company make awardwinning wines. In 2017, Winemaker Mari Wells Coyle joined the ONEHOPE team to become Vice President of Winemaking, taking over ONEHOPE's entire portfolio of

“ We provide the opportunity for everyone to be in the wine business and build ONEHOPE with us. It's kind of like Girl Scout cookies for adults.” – Jake Kloberdanz wine while still collaborating with Rob and other great winemakers on select reserve and estate wines. Mari also took on the critical role as the face of ONEHOPE's wine education platform, helping to inspire and empower people in their community to learn more about wine. Around this time, ONEHOPE also created proprietary software to democratize the opportunity to be in the wine business. With the right team in place, the team's original vision began to grow exponentially, and their software enabled them to keep up with the scale.

CEO and Co-Founder, Jake Kloberdanz, at the ribbon cutting celebration of a new school built in Guatemala.

Outdoor Bathtub at Bardessono

SUMMER 2021

CAUSE ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM In 2014, the founders launched an opportunity to earn an income while making an impact. Fittingly, the program's participants are called Cause Entrepreneurs. What began as a simple affiliate program in California is now operating in 44 states representing 99 percent of wine sales in the United States, and the Cause Entrepreneur program accounts for over 80 percent of the company's total annual sales. “For ages, starting a wine business was limited to the very few who could afford it, were born into it, or were willing to take a big risk,” Jake explained. “We provide the opportunity for everyone to be in the wine business and build ONEHOPE with us. It's kind of like Girl Scout cookies for adults.” Cause Entrepreneurs market ONEHOPE Wine directly to the consumer via personal relationships and events that raise money for important causes to event hosts. Ten percent of event sales are donated to the host's cause of choice. Cause Entrepreneurs receive a commission while never taking on the risk or liability of handling the money, carrying inventory, or shipping the product to the customer's door.

This program is the fastest-growing sales channel at ONEHOPE. Since the beginning of 2021, the company’s Cause Entrepreneurs have quickly grown to nearly 10,000. They are on a trajectory to grow to over 50,000 by 2025. “The Cause Entrepreneur opportunity was a lifesaver for people who lost their jobs or needed to work from home due to the pandemic,” said Tiffany Wojtkiewicz, President and Co-Founder. “As a largely direct-to-consumer wine company with a flexible gig economy role that can be done from home, we saw our community grow by 300 to over 350

percent over the past year. Thousands of people depend on our platform to help supplement their family's income, and some even make over six figures.” She shared that many Cause Entrepreneurs are part-time. Some build their business over time, and others are involved strictly for the fun and fulfillment it brings to their lives. Not all Cause Entrepreneurs are solely focused on selling; some focus on building teams and working to help their teammates succeed. Interestingly, 99 percent of the participants are women. It is not surprising,

ONEHOPE 2018 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

Vintage House Lobby Photo by Will Pryce

Cause Entrepreneurs join ONEHOPE Wine from all over the country

considering half the founders are women, ONEHOPE’s winemaker is a woman, and their CEO's role models growing up were intelligent, strong, and hard-working women and moms in his own family.

“ We've donated to over 20,000 local non-profits throughout the country.” – Kristen Shroyer 32

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ONEHOPE's Winemaker, Mari Wells Coyle

“ It's all about intrinsic motivations – things beyond money that make you love what you do. I knew I wanted a business that was deeply rooted in a purpose beyond just the bottom line.” – Jake Kloberdanz

The Winery's 20/20 Collective members on a mission to change the world through wine

“It's true, the group is mainly women,” Tiffany laughed, “And a few good men.”

MANY CHARITABLE CAUSES The list of charities that ONEHOPE and its Cause Entrepreneurs have supported over the years is impressive and too long to list. Kristen Shroyer, Co-Founder and EVP of the ONEHOPE Foundation shared, “To date, ONEHOPE has proudly donated over $6.5 Million. Through our fundraising platform we’ve donated to over 20,000 local non-profits throughout the country. We’ve also provided over three million meals to help end childhood hunger, built schools in the developing world, and so much more.”

ONEHOPE WINERY and 20/20 COLLECTIVE In addition to democratizing the wine tasting experience for people all over the country, ONEHOPE recently opened a winery and tasting room. Nestled in the heart of Rutherford off Highway 29, the physical winery is a place they can call home. The winery was designed by the most famous architect in Napa history, Howard Backen. It's only open to members of the 20/20 Collective, otherwise known as “Visionaries.” ONEHOPE's exclusive winery offers more to Visionaries than just highly rated 90+ point wines from premier AVAs throughout Napa (although they have plenty of those too). They are building a

community, not only connected through their love for great wine but also through their passion for giving back. At its maturity, the 20/20 Collective will have 2,000 Visionaries funding 20 significant Acts of Hope every year. Acts of Hope range from local projects like providing health care services to Napa Valley farmworkers to global initiatives like building schools in Guatemala and Laos. “With seven indoor and outdoor tasting spaces, our winery is more like the 'Soho House of Napa' than a traditional tasting room, but with a deep sense of purpose connected to our mission to share wine and give hope,” Jake noted. “Everything our company does is centered around hope and purpose,” Jake shared. According to Jake, ONEHOPE is powering over 5,000 tasting events a month, uniting people around wine to give hope to others and themselves. Jake predicts that ONEHOPE will soon be the largest DTC wine brand in the United States and, ultimately, the world. Grandma Sylvia would be proud.

FOR MORE INFORMATION onehopewine.com

SUMMER 2021

SECOND ANNUAL

PHILANTHROPY ISSUE

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“You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give” - Winston Churchill

n today’s society, we are blessed with various forms of philanthropy and different ways to achieve a philanthropic culture. When people hear the term philanthropy, they often assume it refers to donors of charities and non-profit organizations. While some of the world’s top philanthropists are best known for donating money to a worthy cause, philanthropy also refers to charitable acts such as donating time, effort, expertise, or other good works to help others or society as a whole. For example, they can take part in or create an organization that helps the less fortunate or participate in any form of community service that helps people in the community. Philanthropic efforts are sometimes confused with charitable giving; however, philanthropy is not just about giving to do good. A philanthropic initiative is also about giving with a mission—with the specific intent to make a propitious change. While Napa Valley is considered one of California’s smaller cities, it is abundant with philanthropic organizations and community leaders who are dedicated to making constructive changes to the well-being of others. In this special feature, Napa Valley Life Magazine is honored to present some of these outstanding philanthropists and show our appreciation for the positive, long-term impacts their efforts bring to the community. Profiles by: FRAN MILLER

SUMMER 2021

CAROL POOLE VICE PRESIDENT // NAPA WILDLIFE RESCUE

arol Poole started working with Napa Wildlife Rescue when she retired nearly ten years ago from a city planning career. The first few years she fed baby birds. She then trained with another wildlife center to learn how to handle raptors, now her passion. She conducts rescues, assists with rehabilitative care, and releases healthy animals. “Napa Wildlife Rescue is the only organization in Napa County that is permitted to rescue, rehabilitate, and release wild animals back into the wild,” said Poole, a Napa resident since 1977. “We care for baby and injured adult native songbirds, raptors,

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Carol Poole with Maddie, NWR's Red Tail Hawk Ambassador

and small mammals such as squirrels, opossums, raccoons, foxes, fawns, and coyotes. We usually take in about 1200 animals per year, but in 2020 we took in over 1500.” Poole counts herself as lucky to be the caretaker of a beautiful Red-tailed hawk, Maddie, and the co-trainer of a rascally raven, Odin, both educational ambassadors that visit classrooms in person and virtually. “Anyone who cares about wildlife should be familiar with our organization. Most of the animals that we care for have had some unfortunate interaction with humans - animals that are hit by cars; gardeners and tree

trimmers that accidentally take down limbs with nests; babies that become orphaned when parents are trapped or killed; animals caught in bird netting or on barbed wire fencing. Some have been intentionally shot or poisoned. Wildlife is disappearing due to the changes from habitat removal and climate change. I feel like the work that Napa Wildlife Rescue does is atonement for the harm that our species does.” Poole has spent much of the past two years helping to secure a permanent home for the organization. “It's actually been a perfect way to stay busy during Covid!” // napawildliferescue.org

CHUCK MEYER PROPRIETOR // NAPA PALISADES SALOON &

FIRST & FRANKLIN MARKETPLACE PHILANTHROPY PROJECT // FEED NAPA NOW

ather than wallow in the restaurant industry’s pandemic-influenced dire straits, Chuck Meyer and his fellow restaurateurs and chefs took action. In creating Feed Napa Now, Meyer, proprietor of Napa Palisades Saloon and First & Franklin Marketplace, acknowledged that even though he and others in the hospitality industry were in a difficult situation, many had it worse, such as his own employees who often live paycheck to paycheck. Using Sonoma Family Meal as his model, Meyer initiated Feed Napa Now by continuing to purchase food inventory that he shared with his staff. He then partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley (which now serves as the Feed Napa Now parent non-profit) to raise funds to provide meals for those with food insecurity. With the help of restaurants such as Oenotri, Cole’s Chop House, and Ristorante Allegria, to name just a few, he organized weekly meals for delivery to Abode Homeless Shelter, Rainbow House, and Feeding it Forward. “We restaurateurs and chefs are in a unique position to help,” said Meyer, who also serves as food and beverage director for BottleRock. “We are a conduit to need. And as our group grows and changes, we seek ways to keep the effort going.” One such effort includes a partnership with local author/writer Jess Lander of The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook. Proceeds from the sale of the cookbook will be distributed directly to Napa restaurant workers via Feed Napa Now. “The idea is that Feed Napa Now is now ready for any crises that may arise. Having created a mechanism and system, we are aligned, prepared, and organized to meet whatever challenge might come next. While born of the idea of helping the restaurant industry, at its heart, Feed Napa Now is about using this amazing food community to help feed people in need.” // FeedNapaNow.org

Photo by Alexander Rubin

SUMMER 2021

JENNY OCÓN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR // UPVALLEY FAMILY CENTERS

or more than two decades, Up Valley Family Centers (UVFC) has served as a trusted resource for residents of northern Napa Valley in providing guidance, support, and resources for the community, the home, and the individual in order that all thrive. And for the last seven of those 20+ years, Jenny Ocón has served as the organization’s executive director. She oversees a staff of 29 that in 2020 served nearly 4,000 individuals. “We are a one-stop-shop for access to the resources that people need to be well and thrive,” said Ocón who oversees four distinct programs: Family and Senior Wellness, Education, Economic

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Success, and Community Engagement. “We envision that through healthy relationships and networks of support, all people are safe, valued, and prepared to create the future they want for themselves, their families, and their community.” As the region’s go-to social service organization, UVFC maintains offices in Calistoga and St. Helena, serving an area from Yountville to the Lake County border. Many of its clients work in low-wage or seasonal jobs in the hospitality and agriculture sectors, or are seniors who live on fixed incomes. “UVFC creates a baseline of stability for individuals and families, and provides them opportunities to build skills and

succeed in life goals,” continued Ocón, whose focus has been addressing the needs of households most impacted by the pandemic. “Our intervention services stabilize the immediate needs of upvalley households– so families can keep a roof over their heads, and keep their kids fed and warm. We are setting up these families for a stronger recovery once the pandemic is over – a just recovery that addresses the systemic inequities that left some families so vulnerable to the impact of disaster in the first place, and that helps those families build the resilience they need to better weather the next crisis.” // upvalleyfamilycenters.org

CRAIG and KATHRYN HALL CRAIG AND KATHRYN HALL FOUNDATION

raig and Kathryn Hall purchased their first vineyard in Napa in 1995. They now own and operate three wine brands – HALL, WALT, and BACA – as well as five tasting rooms throughout Napa and Sonoma, each adorned with selections from their modern art collection. Well respected and highly regarded members of the Valley’s wine industry, the outgoing duo is equally as committed to philanthropy as they are to producing award-winning varietals. “Our family tries to be a responsible part of the communities where we live and work,” said Kathryn, a longtime Napa resident who was raised in Mendocino County. A former United States Ambassador to Austria, she is continually beguiled by Napa Valley’s peace and beauty. “Perhaps the most important work we do is encouraging others to be involved in the community and to give back in various ways.” Via the Craig and Kathryn Hall Foundation, which they founded in 1977, the couple gives to and raises funds for organizations that perform needed charitable work. They encourage others to give as well via employee matching programs. “We allow and encourage our employees to use one week per year, salary paid, to work in the community with a charitable organization of their choice,” said Kathryn. “Our giving includes support for education, the arts, health, entrepreneurism, and general wellbeing. Keeping our focus general allows us to respond quickly to community needs and to the natural disasters that seem to come so regularly these days.” The Foundation provided generously to fire victims and those affected by COVID-19. It also partners with and supports events such as HALL’s Cabernet Cookoff and Festival Napa Valley. “We believe strongly that charitable giving helps the donors, albeit in a different way, as much as it helps the recipients, and that being a responsible member of a community means giving back.” // ckhallfoundation.org

Photo courtesy of Hall Wines

SUMMER 2021

HILARY STANTON ZUNIN PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER // NAPA VALLEY CANDO

hen Hilary Stanton Zunin passed away earlier this year, she left a community legacy more than 850 volunteers strong. As co-founder of Napa Valley CanDo, Zunin, a former Napa High School English teacher, was instrumental in bringing together friends and neighbors in her project-oriented non-profit that identifies and manages the community’s unmet needs. Zunin was known for her ability to shift seamlessly between recalling the past, being ever sincerely in the present while also anticipating the future. Her vision and ability to collaborate and to connect were integral to all that CanDo has accomplished. Founded in 2009, Napa Valley CanDo began as a small grassroots group, gaining non-profit status in 2013. Today, the organization is a powerful force for good with a stable funding base and collaborative relationships with many

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local service organizations. With them, CanDo works to further mutual goals of encouraging greater community involvement by easing the path from intent to action. CanDo has developed a program with four projects aimed at reducing food insecurity, intending to keep streams, river walks, and wetlands litter-free, and most recently, the creation of a volunteer arm for Napa Valley COAD to address the need for volunteers during the pandemic, including support at testing sites and food distribution to vulnerable populations. “COAD looked to CanDo for support, and Hilary became the chair of COAD’s Volunteers on Call (VOC) program for pandemic missions,” said friend Celeste Guinta. “We had a real community need, and Hilary came up with a CanDo solution.” Zunin was also instrumental in creating the Napa CanDo Give!Guide which promotes funding for nonprofits

providing critical services in Napa County. “The exceptional results of last year’s Give!Guide from community donors is a tribute to Hilary and was a shot in the arm for many nonprofits so they can continue to deliver critical services,” added Guinta. “Hilary was an exemplary leader who inspired those around her. She became the heart and soul of CanDo. She was kind, passionate, and humble, a tenacious champion of community organizing, adventuresome, curious, and fearless. She was someone who could see the possible, the probable, and potential from any angle and an incredible teacher who was teaching us compassion, resilience, and tenacity until the end. She inspired and committed herself to meaningful and lasting change which has benefited the community immeasurably for many years to come.” // nvcando.org

TALULAH and RUBY FINKELSTEIN BEKIND NAPA

JULIA ORR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR // MOLLY’S ANGELS

ulia Orr moved to Napa from Los Angeles four years ago after falling in love with the region’s climate and architecture while visiting a friend. After 25 years as an entertainment executive with The Walt Disney Company, Orr was ready for both a scenery switch and a meaningful career change, one that she found with Molly’s Angels. As executive director of the senior support non-profit founded in 1999 by Molly Banz, Orr oversees nearly 100 volunteers dedicated to serving the senior community. She came on board two years ago at a time when the organization was ready to evolve and grow. “To take a program to the next level, that’s my specialty,” said Orr, a self-professed ‘champion of the underdog’ who is sensitive to society’s ageism. Orr oversees varied Molly’s Angels’ programming, such as the transportation program in which community volunteers provide rides to seniors and the ‘Hello Molly’ Care Calls reassurance program in which friendly and sometimes lifesaving phone calls are made weekly to isolated elders. “Everybody has a senior in their life or will become a senior themselves,” said Orr, who recalled a time when a Care Calls phone volunteer could not reach her phone pal, resulting in a successful call to emergency services. “Our rural community sometimes makes it hard for people to connect and to get around. And many do not have family or friends on which they can rely; it makes me lie awake at night, wondering what these seniors would do without the Molly’s Angels volunteers who fill this gap. And it goes both ways; our volunteers tell me that they get as much out of their involvement as our clients do. The personal satisfaction in knowing we are making an impact within the community is immensely gratifying.” // mollysangels.com

Photo by Sally Seymour

isters Talulah and Ruby Finkelstein initiated BeKind Napa in 2017 after a visit to New York City, where they witnessed a friend pass out small red lapel pins that simply stated, ‘Be Kind.’ “We saw the power of these pins, how they were an ice breaker, and how they put a smile on stranger’s faces,” said 11-year-old Ruby. “The pins got people to talk with one another, and we wanted to bring that same sense of friendliness and kindness back home to Napa.” The girls started organically, ordering 100 red ‘BeKind’ pins. They each wore one wherever they went and carried a stash to hand out anytime someone commented. To date, the girls have distributed 20,000 pins. And while the pin concept was and continues to be a societal gamechanger, the girls began to take their kindness efforts a bit further. “We started a youth-led group called Kindness Kids that anyone can join,” said 13-year-old Talulah. “We meet regularly and brainstorm ideas for how we can help the Napa community, such as our Kindness Day walk where people make and carry messages of kindness.” The sister-led group also partners with others to hold birthday parties for homeless kids, collects backpacks and school supplies for those less fortunate, and recently held a warm coat, blanket, and sleeping bag drive for the local homeless shelter. Through their efforts, both Talulah and Ruby have become seasoned public speakers, addressing school assemblies, professional and service groups, and larger gatherings such as Napa’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration. “It makes us really happy that we can be part of our community and help,” said Ruby. The girls, students at Napa’s Blue Oak School, who in their spare time partake in dance, art, and fencing, are pleased that their efforts have been replicated nationwide by friends and family. Their ultimate goal? That BeKind Napa becomes BeKind World // bekindnapa.com

Photo by Kenny Kim

JESS LANDER FREELANCE WRITER PHILANTHROPY PROJECT // THE ESSENTIAL NAPA VALLEY COOKBOOK

freelance wine, food, and travel writer, Napa-based Jess Lander can now add ‘cookbook author’ to her resume. The Wine Enthusiast, Wine Business Monthly, 7x7, and Napa Valley Register regular contributor had been seeking a way to help local restaurants, beyond the frequent ordering of takeout, when she learned of restaurant relief cookbooks launching in Boulder, Colorado and New York City. ‘Why not in Napa?’ she thought, believing that a cookbook from Napa’s world-renowned culinary scene might appeal nationally. The result: The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook, featuring 35+ recipes from top Napa Valley restaurants and chefs, such as Beer Can Chicken from the Bounty Hunter and Chocolate Soufflé from Michelin-starred La Toque, the proceeds of which will go directly to Napa restaurants and workers. The 100% volunteer effort provided a great distraction to Lander, who lost her home in the Glass Fire. “During the fires and the pandemic, I kept thinking about how the only consistent comfort was food from our local restaurants and how they provided a chance to get out and feel semi-normal. I wanted to do something nice for the restaurants and their employees, to return the favor.” Lander’s greatest challenge was finding a suitable non-profit partner to help receive and distribute funds; she ultimately joined forces with Feed Napa Now and its founder Chuck Meyer who helped connect her to the restaurants and chefs. “I don’t want this simply to be a coffee table book,” said Lander, who fundraised to cover printing costs and received gratis services from photographer Alexander Rubin and design studio, Design This! “I want people to actually use it, get the pages dirty, and enjoy the flavors of Napa Valley from their homes.” The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook is sold online at napavalleycookbook.com and select Napa retailers.

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Photo by Alexander Rubin

ELAINE JOHN CHIEF PHILANTHROPY OFFICER //

PROVIDENCE/QUEEN OF THE VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER // QUEEN OF THE VALLEY FOUNDATION

laine John has spent the last three decades leading foundation boards at Napa County’s two hospitals that bookend the Valley. “When I am asked what I do, and I respond regarding my role as a hospital executive responsible for fund development, the reaction is dependably consistent: most people are quite certain that I have the last job on earth they would ever want to do,” laughed John, a former English literature teacher. “Actually, it is the best job on earth as the position brings you in contact with some of the smartest, most successful and generous people on the planet.” Together, John and her board members have raised more than $160M during her career, helping to ensure that Napa local hospitals offer sophisticated medicine that incorporates state-of-the-art and often emerging technology, with an emphasis on making exceptional care accessible to all who live and work in the region.” As CEO of St. Helena Hospital Foundation,

John led a capital campaign to raise funds to build the Johnson Pavilion that houses the Martin O’Neil Cancer Center. At Providence Queen of the Valley, her Foundation Board launched a campaign that helped fund the Herman Family Pavilion that includes the Marjorie Mondavi Center for Intensive Care, the Hubbard Hybrid Surgical Suite, and one of the most sophisticated clinical labs in the State. “We are so blessed to have these medical resources that would not typically be found in a community of our size,” added John, a New York Times crossword addict who moved to Napa in 1985 from England following a four-year sojourn abroad while her husband pursued studies at Oxford University. “Be assured; it is all because as a community, we have grasped the importance of and shared the responsibility for funding excellent health care. We could not do this without the extraordinary generosity of our community.” // queensfoundation.org

SENATOR BILL DODD PUBLIC SERVANT

n addition to his career as a Napa County supervisor, state Assembly member, and now state senator representing California’s 3rd Senate District, Bill Dodd has long been an active philanthropic force in the region in which he grew up and in which he raised five children. He and his wife Mary are now the proud grandparents of 10. For 21 years, he has overseen an annual charity holiday fundraiser that has raised more than $3 million and helped to bolster nearly two dozen local nonprofits. Through the years he has also been instrumental in helping the Wolfe Family Center, Queen of the Valley Hospital and Justin-Siena High School. He is also currently an honorary board member with Collabria Care, Queen of the Valley Foundation and If Given a Chance, a nonprofit dedicated to educational opportunities and achievement for disadvantaged youth. And his efforts in helping others extend to his day job

where as a senator he has introduced legislation to help enhance wildfire safety, improve public education, defend seniors and protect the environment. His interest in public service and philanthropy was fostered by his parents, who taught Dodd and his four siblings to always give back, and to try and leave a place better than when found. “As a public servant, I have seen firsthand how important our nonprofits are in supporting our community, and I’m always heartened to see people step up with their time, money and talent to help those in need,” said Sen. Dodd, a fifthgeneration Californian and lifelong Napa resident, who, prior to his busy legislative career enjoyed playing golf. He looks forward to a post-COVID time when the community can once again gather at events throughout his district. Spending time with his kids and grandkids is what he and Mary most enjoy. Photo by Art & Clarity SUMMER 2021

ALISSA ABDO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR // ON THE MOVE

lissa Abdo once benefitted from the organization for which she now serves as executive director. “I was a young person that On The Move (OTM) invested in,” said Abdo. “I want to be able to do that same thing for other people in my community.” Founded in 2004, OTM partners with communities in mobilizing young and emerging leaders to take action in pursuit of social equity. Its mission is to develop and sustain young people as leaders by building exceptional programs that address the most pressing and critical educational, social, health, and economic inequities impacting our community. Abdo has been with the organization for more than 15 years. “Each year, OTM reaches 8,000+ children, youth, and families in Napa County,” said Abdo, who moved to the region specifically to work with OTM. Community-designed and led strategies and programs include the VOICES Youth Center, Innovations Community Center, LGBTQ Connection, and the Neighborhood Initiative, which offers three school-based Family Resource Centers, five Parent University sites, civic engagement, and citizenship support, and five Youth Leadership Academies. “OTM’s initiatives offer a powerful and groundbreaking combination of strategies seeking to engage and develop new leaders, collaborate with partners in rigorous systems change, and foster communities that are inclusive and equitable,” said Abdo, who derives her incredible energy from those with whom she works. “We believe strongly that true success is only possible when community members come together and advocate for themselves and the changes they want to see. When these leaders reflect the community's diversity, they ensure the needs of all community members are met. When children, youth, and families can see themselves reflected in the diversity of local leaders, it creates a place where they feel they belong, have value, and can be active members of the community. Diversity strengthens the community and leads to better outcomes for all who live and work here.” // onthemovebayarea.org

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ERIKA TAVAKOLI, CFRE

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT OPERATIONS // COLLABRIA CARE

rika Tavakoli moved to Napa 24 years ago to pursue a graphic design position within the wine industry. But her career aspirations pivoted when she was introduced to the world of philanthropy via subsequent positions at Copia and the Land Trust of Napa Valley. Now with Collabria Care for the past ten years, Tavakoli serves as Director of Development Operations, directly overseeing the 41-year-old organization’s grant fundraising program, which primarily raises money to support the Adult Day Healthcare Program, ensuring that community needs are met with a high level of care. She also oversees marketing and communications for the agency and assists with all other facets of the fundraising program. “Our continuum of care and expertise promote wellness as we age, remaining independent in the community, and the importance of living our best lives possible - regardless of any diagnosis,” said Tavakoli. “Simply put, we provide the care and support needed by those faced with a serious or life-limiting illness so they can spend the days they have left-- living. We also care for their loved ones and ensure they have the support they need too. As a daughter and mother of three (Kayla, a senior at Vintage, Kira, a sophomore at Vintage, and Niko, a 7th grader at Silverado Middle), this is especially important to me. I want to ensure that not only my parents have access to this care should they need it, but that my husband and kids have the support they’ll need should I become ill. The support and resources we offer are game-changers. Dealing with an illness like Alzheimer’s or a prognosis of six months or less is so profound. We want to ensure that anyone facing serious illness or the end of life doesn’t do it alone. They have a partner in us.” // collabriacare.org

SEAN DEMPSEY PROPRIETOR //

SEAN DEMPSEY & ASSOCIATES PHILANTHROPY PROJECT // COVID HEROES LUNCH PROGRAM

hen COVID caused Sean Dempsey’s event planning business to come to a near screeching halt in 2020, he knew he needed a meaningful project to fill his time. He found that project when his friend, Councilwoman Liz Alessio, asked if he might help find a way to feed the dozens of volunteers giving their time to provide COVID testing to Napa residents through CORE, Sean Penn’s coordinated relief program. “The volunteers were receiving lunches from fast-food restaurants in a region known for its first-class cuisine, so I knew we could do much better than that,” said Dempsey, a former food and beverage director for some of the region’s top resorts. He immediately went to work contacting his strong hospitality industry network. His mission? To find various restaurants willing to provide the volunteers with gratis lunch on an exacting schedule. He ultimately secured 37 Napa Valley restaurants, each of which committed to providing meals to the volunteers, one day a week for six weeks, over eight months. “And these offerings were not your typical lunch,” said Dempsey, who had expected the project to last for no more than two months. “Zuzu, for instance, had Thursdays, which became Paella day. Tuesdays was burger day prepared by Gott’s Roadside Napa, and Saturdays was Mexican fare prepared by Taqueria Rosita.” With help from his 17-year-old son Dylan, Dempsey personally picked up and delivered each and every order, six days per week, from April through November. “The amazing meals these generous restaurateurs were happily providing for this hardworking volunteer team gave them the muchneeded morale boost when they needed it the most. I’m so blessed to have had the opportunity to give back to the community in a truly meaningful way, and I made a lot of new friends in the process.”

Photo by Art & Clarity

SUMMER 2021

MALCOLM DE SIEYES PRESIDENT, BOARD OF DIRECTORS // NAPA VALLEY COLLEGE FOUNDATION

apa Valley College (NVC) provides two years of free education to its students and is one of California's most respected community colleges. The Napa Valley College Foundation (NVCF) is a direct-support organization and non-profit that benefits the college and its students. It exists to supplement state funding, which unfortunately is never nearly enough to cover the rising costs of education adequately. Malcolm de Sieyes serves as president of the Board of Directors for the Foundation. Its mission is to provide scholarships, help with student emergency financial needs, and oversee capital campaign initiatives. In 2020, The Napa Valley College Foundation launched the Foundation Action Strike Team (FAST) Fund to provide financial support in the form of hardship grants to

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Napa Valley College students impacted by the COVID-19 virus. The creation of the FAST fund was designed to cover unexpected expenses related to housing costs, lost wages, technology needs and groceries to support educational continuity, persistence, and degree completion for Napa Valley College students. “During these uncertain times, it is important to do everything we can to support those who are the most vulnerable,” said Malcolm de Sieyes, Foundation board president. “It is our mission to support the College and its students to ensure we keep as many students in school as possible. FAST is our first line of defense to help those who are feeling the financial pressure to drop out of school.” “The cost of education in the United States is unaffordable and unrealistic for many individuals,” said de Sieyes,

who, in addition to his work with NVCF, is the owner and head chef at Silverado Cooking School. “A lot of students are saddled with enormous student loan debt after graduation. If you look at education as a right, as I do, NVC is an incredible instrument to expand someone’s ability to gain a leg up into their industry of focus. This would not be possible without the free education that community colleges provide.” De Sieyes, a Massachusetts native, has been a Napa Valley resident for ten years and has served on the Foundation board for nearly five years, the last two as president. “NVC delivers the education and training necessary to prepare and meet the demands of today’s workforce,” continued de Sieyes. “Higher education should be a right for all people living in the United States.” // napavalley.edu Photo courtesy of Napa Valley College Foundation

ERICA ROETMAN SKLAR PRESIDENT & CEO // NAPA VALLEY COMMUNITY HOUSING

rica Roetman Sklar’s passion for housing comes from witnessing the change in people’s lives when they receive safe and stable housing for the first time. “It’s transformative to see, for example, a child become healthy and avoid her monthly hospital visits after moving into one of our homes,” said Sklar, president and CEO of Napa Valley Community Housing (NVCH). “Access to stable housing provides social, economic, and health benefits to our residents and our community as a whole. It creates economic security that allows for upward mobility, educational advancement, and improvements in physical and mental health. It also creates a more stable and reliable workforce, a critical need in Napa right now.” Sklar’s work with NVCH is a homecoming of sorts; her history with the organization goes back to 2001, when she served as NVCH’s project manager for housing development. In the interim, she has served as executive director for Calistoga Affordable Housing and Asian Neighborhood Design. With NVCH, she advocates for shelter for everyone. NVCH has a 43-year history of providing safe, clean, affordable homes in Napa County and has transformed the lives of tens of thousands with supportive, sponsored, self-help, and elder housing and affordable rental housing. “The housing crisis is daunting, and Napa is no exception,” said Sklar, a 20-year Napa resident who raised two children in St. Helena. “A home is a basic fundamental right. It’s the place where you and your family enjoy life’s moments and celebrations, make memories to last a lifetime, and find ways to overcome challenges. A home provides safety and stability for its residents and the greater community. At NVCH, we believe that caring for everyone with housing needs should be our focus and that each member of our community should have a place to call home.” // nvch.org

CLAUDIA SONDER PRESIDENT // NAPA COMMUNITY ANIMAL RESPONSE TEAM (CART)

he organization for which Claudia Sonder serves as president was created out of necessity in 2016 after the Valley Fire raged through the region. Sonder and Kevin Twohey, then director of the Napa Emergency Operations Center, established Napa CART to educate the public on the animal component of disaster preparedness. “Past disasters have shown us time and again that people will ignore evacuation orders and drive around fire barriers to get to their animals,” said Sonder, who oversees all aspects of CART, from outreach, planning, operations, finances, and logistics. “Working together as a community, we can preserve the human-animal bond and keep our citizens, first responders, and animals safe.” Napa CART is now integrated into the Emergency Action Plan and assists Emergency Services in sheltering, evacuation, and caring for animals during a disaster. The organization also trains first responders, veterinary professionals, and community volunteers in animal rescue and trauma care. It works closely with Napa County emergency operations center and Napa CERT teams to ensure response team safety, tracking, and communications. “When the Wine Country Complex fires erupted in 2017, we were able to shelter several hundred animals with the support of many in the community,” said Sonder, who first moved to the Valley in 1997 to work as a large animal veterinarian. “Since that time, we assisted the Camp Fire, Kincaid Fire, and the LNU and Glass Fires in 2020. In 2020 alone, Napa CART tracked more than 6,000 volunteer hours and sheltered more than 1000 animals. “The community has suffered trauma with these multiple fires. Knowing there is a safe place to evacuate animals or that a trained team can shelter or retrieve an animal left behind brings tremendous relief to those who have everything to lose. The healing power of the human-animal bond is an important aspect of resilience, and Napans are resilient!” // napacart.org Photo by Seymour & McIntosh Photography

SUMMER 2021

NVL winery spotlight

Miner Family Winery:

Unpretentious, Approachable, Inviting Photos courtesy of Miner Family Winery

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

mall, family-owned wineries are at the core of what makes Napa Valley special, and there’s a lot to love about Miner Family Winery. Owner Dave Miner put it like this: “We like to have people come here and have a good time, learn some things they want to, taste good wines and just enjoy themselves. Those are the themes here at Miner that we try to promote all the time. So come visit.” This place and brand are firmly built on friendly and foundational pillars: unpretentious, approachable, and inviting. When guests arrive at Miner, they encounter a panoramic sweep of wine country at its best. Just north of Yountville, tucked into the eastern hills of the Oakville AVA on the scenic Silverado Trail, the views are like nothing else in the valley. Visitors will also notice a few impressive things about the surroundings: An expansive array of solar panels are installed on the east side of the property which provide 100 percent of the winery’s power, supporting a dedicated environmental philosophy, and a half-acre of Cabernet Sauvignon planted at the entrance to the winery. 48

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In addition, the eastern hillside houses a 20,000-square-foot wine cave. The newly renovated space for indoor tastings, completed in 2019, is the epitome of inviting with top-to-bottom upgrades. Now, finally reopened, the attractive spaces are just like new. “The new design is a true reflection of our personality as a company and a culture. It's fun, casual, and relaxed but still incredibly classy. It evokes who we are and embraces two of my passions: world-class wine and jazz guitars,” said Dave Miner. Exterior renovations continued through 2020, and now both the second and third floor terraces highlight unobstructed west-facing views of beautiful Oakville. Each wine at Miner is sourced from some of California’s most sought-after and respected vineyards. The portfolio features a wide range of varietals, including the consistently popular Wild Yeast Chardonnay, Rosato of Sangiovese, and The Oracle, Miner’s flagship Bordeaux-style red blend. Miner’s hospitality approach is approachable but elevated, and guest experiences are central to what makes Miner special.

In the Oracle Blending Seminar, visitors try their hand at winemaking with all five Bordeaux varietals that go into The Oracle: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The new Library Experience tasting takes guests through current release flagship wines and library offerings, using stemmed Riedel® glassware to enhance each varietal. Additionally, the Vineyard Comparative guides guests through six wines sourced from different vineyards to highlight and observe terroir differences prior to a private guided tour of the caves. Amid a display of Dave’s wine-stained guitars, the third-floor tasting space provides a private lounge to accommodate larger groups. Miner is truly a warm and welcoming destination in the heart of wine country. The wonderful people, unmatched views, and sensational wines make for an unforgettable experience. FOR MORE INFORMATION

7850 Silverado Trail Oakville, CA 94562 minerwines.com

A TASTE of HISTORY

Three Historic Wineries - One Amazing Experience Beringer Vineyards Cabana

Charles Krug Winery Carriage House

Markham Vineyards // Photo by Dawn Heumann  BY DON SONDERLING

pend a day like no other in Napa Valley’s Historic Wine Country. For anyone who loves Napa Valley wines and the region’s rich history, they will not want to miss one of its truly exceptional tasting experiences. Discover three of Napa Valley’s original and most renowned wineries by learning their stories, which parallel the American experience, while tasting a diverse showcase of wines, exhibiting the multiplicity of Napa Valley’s unique terroir. Appropriately, the day’s adventure begins at Charles Krug Winery, where the Napa Valley wine story originated. The winery is regaled as Napa’s first, founded in 1861 by Krug, a Prussian immigrant, and set the stage for Napa’s future. Opening for tastings in 1862, this was Napa’s original tasting room. In 1943 the winery was purchased by another immigrant family, Cesare and Rosa Mondavi, from Italy. Firmly establishing themselves in the Valley as trend-setters, the Mondavis have been leaders in California’s modern-day family-owned wine industry ever since, recently welcoming their fifth generation. This unique tasting exploration begins with a celebratory glass of Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine,

followed by a limited release of Chardonnay and Malbec. The historical winery visit concludes with Napa’s King of Grapes, a 2016 Signature Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon. // charleskrug.com The next stop is Beringer Vineyards. German immigrant brothers Jacob and Frederick Beringer purchased the property next to Krug winery in 1875, establishing the winery with their initial vintage in 1876. Before buying the property, Jacob Beringer was cellar foreman for the Krug winery. Beringer has the distinction of being the longest continuously operating winery in the Valley and being the only winery to have received Wine Spectator’s #1 wine of the year award for both a red (1986 Cabernet Sauvignon) and a white (1994 Chardonnay) wine. Sip and enjoy Beringer’s small-production Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, plus their distinctive Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Following the tasting, pick a wine to accompany a gourmet picnic lunch prepared in-house by the Beringer Culinary Team. Wine, history, and foodan unbeatable blend. // beringer.com

Conclude the day at Markham Vineyards, founded in 1874 by French explorer Jean Laurent, a Bordeaux native. Coming to America to join the California Gold Rush, Laurent recognized land similar to that of his native Bordeaux, purchased land, starting Napa’s fourth-longest continuously operating winery. Bruce Markham, an Arizona businessman, bought the winery in 1977 and in 1980, released its first vintage of Merlot, only the fourth to do so, becoming one of the Valley’s early pioneers growing this variety. The effort drew much acclaim; In 1992, Wine Spectator designated Markham’s 1990 vintage “Merlot of the Year,” and in 1997, winemaker Bryan Del Bondio appeared on Wine Spectator’s cover. The Markham tasting includes the Frenchman’s White Blend (in honor of Laurent), a Rosé of Pinot Noir, an Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, and of course, Markham’s benchmark Estate Merlot. // markhamvineyards.com FOR MORE INFORMATION

markhamvineyards.com/visit/winery-experiences/ All inclusive Tasting Experience $140 per person. SUMMER 2021

NVL winemaker spotlight

Piña Napa Valley

WINEMAKER ANNA MONTICELLI  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

he Piña ancestors arrived in the Napa Valley on wagon trains eight generations ago when the first vinifera plantings were barely in the ground. The family still owns and runs the Piña Napa Valley winery and Piña Vineyard Management. The family atmosphere drew Winemaker Anna Monticelli to the winery almost 15 years ago. She explained, “John Piña was like a father to me.” Anna is not your typical winemaker. Her husband Mario, a second-generation Italian-American, is also a winemaker, and they spend their off-time making wine together in Italy. Wine is in Mario's blood as a fourth-generation winemaker, but Anna came to the profession differently. Born in Poland, Anna fled the then Communist country with her parents and sibling when she was two years old. “They had two kids, two suitcases, and $1,000 in their pockets,” Anna explained. She describes how her father received a Fulbright scholarship in Engineering and later became a medical doctor. She grew up wanting to be a doctor like her dad. He went to UC Davis medical school, and so she went there too. But after one viticulture and enology class in her first quarter, she fell in love with the subject, and at 17, she realized this was what she wanted to do with her life. Anna earned a degree in Viticulture and Enology at the University of California-Davis. She spent her fourth year studying abroad at the Sorbonne in Paris, France, and spent summers studying in Italy and Poland. After graduation, she experienced her first harvest while at Château Cheval Blanc in Bordeaux, France. Upon her return to California, she was tapped as the Assistant Winemaker at Seavey Vineyard 50

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Photo courtesy of Piña Napa Valley

The family atmosphere drew Winemaker Anna Monticelli to the winery almost 15 years ago. She explained, “John Piña was like a father to me.”

in Napa Valley and then the Assistant Winemaker at Bryant Family Vineyard until she joined Piña Napa Valley as winemaker in 2007. At Piña, Anna crafts single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from various Napa Valley AVAs, each wine expressing the terroir from which it originates. In Oakville, the Ames Vineyard produces wine with juicy dark berry fruits, a luscious mouthfeel, and velvety tannins. Located in the Atlas Peak foothills, the D'Adamo Vineyard's highly stressed vines produce well-balanced fruit and fruit-forward wine. From the Firehouse Vineyard of Rutherford, Anna makes a Cabernet Sauvignon with layers of dark berry fruits and nuances of crushed stone. The Wolff Vineyard in the Yountville AVA boasts two soil profiles, weathered metavolcanic rock in one block and gravelly alluvium in another. Together, they allow Anna to create a Cabernet with a refined aroma of spice, savory herbs, and floral notes. High on Howell Mountain, the cool-climate Buckeye Vineyard fruit shows dark fruit flavors in warmer vintages but more earthy characteristics when cooler. Sadly, the current generation of four Piña brothers suffered the loss of brother John in 2017. Still, the Piña family carries on, with John's wife stepping in. It is a family affair. Just as family is at the core of Piña Napa Valley, it is at the heart of Anna's world. She purposefully keeps a part of her family's life in Europe, keeping her three children rooted in their heritage. This sense of family drew her to Piña, and it has kept her there for almost 15 years. PIÑA NAPA VALLEY

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NVL winery spotlight

Carrying on the Legacy, Looking to the Future

Sullivan Rutherford Estate

Photos courtesy of Sullivan Rutherford Estate

 BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

ften when family-owned and run businesses are sold, the very thing that made the company successful—the family—is overlooked, but that is not the case at Sullivan Rutherford Estate. Entrepreneur and owner Juan Pablo Torres-Padilla “JP” chose to carry on the legacy and feeling created by the Sullivan family when he purchased the winery in 2018. Set in the heart of the Rutherford AVA, Sullivan Rutherford Estate has been one of the region's mainstays for over 45 years. When James O'Neil Sullivan (“Jim”) and his wife began it in 1972, they had no way of knowing that the Judgment of Paris would change the area forever in four years. They could not have known how lucky they were to have come in just before the valley exploded with tourism. The family's fortune did not end there. Sullivan was friends with legendary winemaker André Tchelistcheff, who advised him on the vineyard. In the 1980s, they began producing what would become the centerpiece of the winery's portfolio—Coeur de Vigne (“heart of the vine”). Coeur de Vigne was a Bordeaux-blend 52

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made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Sullivan Rutherford Estate quickly became known as a winery producing boutique, high-quality wines. Set on 22 acres of vineyards, the estate also boasts an intimate guest atmosphere with a reflection pond and sophisticated private tasting areas. Under new leadership, the estate continues to keep the extraordinary history of the property alive through unparalleled vineyard practices, winemaking, and hospitality experiences. JP retained celebrated Winemaker Jeff Cole, formerly Assistant Winemaker at Schramsberg, who had been with the family since 2013. He then brought on General Manager Joshua Lowell (formerly of Futo & Aubert), Vineyard Manager Mike Wolf and Estate Director Lisa Barker. The vineyards were initially planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Bordeaux varieties such as their stunning Merlot, which rivals some of the best wines in the world. Since some of the most revered wines are Merlot driven, Sullivan Rutherford

Estate is shifting its focus to be more inclusive of this varietal. Accordingly, when they recently replanted one-third of their Cabernet vineyards, they replaced half back to Merlot. The elevated hospitality experiences at the estate offer spectacular views overlooking gardens and vineyards. Visitors revel in private spaces with winery team members who host only one group at a time, allowing them to give personalized service to each guest. Options may include a flight of reserve wines or a more immersive experience, such as the “The Heart of the Valley,” which features a lunch on the property. Additionally, for those that join the Founder’s Reserve Membership, members are treated to an annual multi-course private dinner at the estate prepared by Chef Daniel Gomez-Sanchez, formerly with the French Laundry. For both legacy and new collectors, owner JP embraces the winery's future while keeping the heart of the estate alive at Sullivan Rutherford Estate. FOR MORE INFORMATION

sullivanwine.com

SUMMER 2021

NVL winery spotlight

TRES SABORES

Passion, Purpose, and Palate Appeal—Discovered Photos courtesy of Tres Sabores

 BY NICOLE MARINO

ow can one woman’s dream stimulate people’s senses and encourage them to live a fulfilling life? Julie Johnson, the owner, winemaker, and chef of Tres Sabores (“the three flavors” in every glass: the vine, terroir, and spirit of the company around the table), has crafted a lifestyle and made it her career to inspire others by respecting her land and appreciating its natural gifts. The small, women-led farm and winery, located on the western Rutherford Bench, features an estate vineyard planted in 1972. Tres Sabores produces a diverse portfolio of wines ranging from a classic Cabernet Sauvignon to an elegant Zinfandel, a savory Cabernet Franc, and a hillside Sauvignon Blanc full of zest, and two delicious Rhone varietals: Picpoul Blanc and Petite Sirah. Whether grown in the Napa Valley or other appellations, all celebrate their distinctive, native terroirs and the serious, hands-on craftsmanship needed to express their best qualities. Along with her former partner in Frog’s Leap, Julie purchased her estate in 1987. In 1991 the vineyard and orchards on the property became the first to be CCOF 54

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certified organic in the region. In 1999 she founded Tres Sabores to focus on Zinfandel and the stewardship of an enticingly complex and diverse land and soon started making wine. Today, she continues her quest to practice authentic, regenerative agriculture and loves sharing her winemaking and farming methods with anyone who visits. “We are always making discoveries about our native, cultivated lands and hope to immerse guests in all of our passions: from a love of wine to soil health, and dry farming, to bringing sheep into the vineyard, gardening, cooking, and more,” Julie said. Indeed, a visit to Tres Sabores is designed to engage people with every feature of the thoughtfully managed property. Upon arrival, visitors are likely to be greeted by the resident Golden Retrievers, Shetland Sheep, and even Rosie the goat. Swallows, bluebirds, hummingbirds, and hawks fly through and over the vineyards. Guests enjoy the sights, smells, and tastes of everything from the fragrant lemon trees, olive oil produced from the 120-year-old olive grove to vinegar and brownies made from the orchard of pomegranates.

Julie fully believes that people not only love good wine but enjoy being “hands-on” when they visit a winery. As part of every Tres Sabores wine tasting, guests are seated right beside the vineyard and are welcomed to join her or a member of her team in the vineyard to sample cover crops or ripening grapes, taste fermenting wine on the crush pad or herbs from the garden and participate in an organic growing demonstration. Julie said, “I always tell people to step into the vineyard to find and feel the energy, the ‘synergy’ that comes from engaging with the land in such a personal way.” Julie’s mission at Tres Sabores is all about paying the passion forward. “My goal is to continue to work with the land, nourish it, and leave it in the best possible shape for generations to come. I’m proud of the way my children have embraced our sustainable practices and am excited to see what the future holds.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION tressabores.com

TO THOSE WHO SERVE THE ASCENSION of HOPE II @theghostofautumnwine

SUMMER 2021

o n n g i B v lanc u a S The AROMATIC WHITE GRAPE of NAPA VALLEY  BY CHRIS SAWYER

Photo by Bob McClenahan 56

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Photo courtesy of St. Supéry

As a pleasant departure from the deep, rich, and complex flavor profiles found in Napa Valley’s red wines, the crisp, clean, and energetic characteristics of the white wines made with Sauvignon Blanc grapes deliver the fresh, fun, and relaxing aspects of Napa in each sip.

eyond the lovely pale golden-green hue, the natural attraction to Sauvignon Blanc starts on the nose, where lively aromas of ripe melons, citrus, wildflowers, honeysuckle, cut grass, and mustard seeds resemble fresh springtime scents. The same is true on the palate, where vibrant notes of crisp apple, pear nectar, ripe white peach, Kadota figs, and tropical fruits are comparable to the titillating sensations beckoning from a garden, restaurant, or local farmers market during the warmer months of summer and fall. From tart and bone dry to crisp and fruity and onwards to creamy, elegant, and complex, the art of capturing these aromas and flavors inside the bottle has become the focus of many wineries in the valley over the past few decades. This is especially true with the new wave of stylish Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc selections that cater to a growing number of sophisticated consumers searching for white wines that refresh the palate, stimulate the senses, pair seamlessly with lighter style menus, or set the tone for the evening ahead.

PARENT of CABERNET and FUMÉ BLANC Before Charles Wetmore of Livermore Valley brought the source material of Sauvignon Blanc to California in the 1880s, the first historical mention of the variety is traced back to 1534. Grown in the lovely Loire Valley of central France, it gained notoriety as the esteemed blending grape used in fashionable dry white wines and “Sauterne” or “Haut Sauterne” sweet wines in the Bordeaux region in the south. However, Sauvignon Blanc’s status rose to a noble level when it was mated with Cabernet Franc to create the world-famous super grape, Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, this special connection between the old world and Napa Valley is rooted at the I-Block section of the coveted To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, the hallowed home to a unique grouping of stately vines planted in 1945 and considered to be the oldest collection of Sauvignon Blanc vines in North America. When Robert Mondavi began working with fruit from this site in the mid-1960s, he created his signature style of SUMMER 2021

Crocker & Starr // Photo by Emma K Morris

dry white wine with a creamy texture. He called it Fumé Blanc – a synonym taken from the historic names Sauvignon Fumé and Blanc Fumé, which originated in the Loire Valley in 1783. Over time, the success of Mondavi’s iconic wine drew more interest to the unique qualities of the grape. In the 1980s, this movement intensified with a new wave of fresh, fruity, and pronounced styles imported from New Zealand. In California, the plantings of Sauvignon Blanc in the state increased from under 2,000 acres in 1971 to over 15,000 acres in 1985. As a result, many of the old orchards located along the banks of the Napa Valley River were converted to Sauvignon Blanc vineyards.

Photo by Meg Smith courtesy of St. Supéry

St. Supéry Dollarhide Estate Vineyard Photo Courtesy of St. Supéry

A PLETHORA of DAZZLING STYLES Beyond the farming perks of natural vigor, high yields, and early ripening, the desirable winemaking traits of the Sauvignon Blanc grape begin with its rare ability to create the divine trifecta of fragrant aromas, racy acidity, and fresh fruity flavors on the vine. To preserve these attributes, most Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in neutral vessels, such as stainless steel and concrete eggs. Exceptions include the more prominent, rich, textured styles often fermented or aged in a percentage of oak. Following the fanfare and industry recognition of the dry styles in the 1980s 58

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and early ’90s from producers such as Cakebread, Grgich Hills, Flora Springs, Round Pond, Frogs Leap, and Honig Vineyards, the promising flavor profiles from special vineyard selections in the warm areas of the middle of the valley have become more sought after, especially by boutique brands that are now making more detailed and personalized bottlings of these wines. One of the delicious examples of this trend is the dreamy new 2020 Sauvignon Blanc by Yountville-based Goosecross Cellars, made with pristine fruit from a Beringer Nightingale Photo courtesy of Beringer Vineyards

small, 25-year-old block located at Yount Mills Vineyard. Before teaming up with Goosecross proprietor Christi CoorsFiceli in 2009, winemaker Bill Nancarrow became enamored with the fruit of this organically farmed site owned by the Andrew Hoxsey family when he worked at Duckhorn Wine Company, a successful brand that launched its Sauvignon Blanc program in 1982. To set the tone at harvest, Nancarrow waits until the hard green fruit flavors move toward the citrusy stage of development, which allows him the opportunity to match the bright, tangy aciddriven notes with other expressive hints of passionfruit, guava, and fresh herbs. “Given our size, it doesn’t make sense for us to be sourcing from different locations,” said Nancarrow, who made 400 cases of this new release. “Instead, our goal is to make a wine that is compelling, with layers of complexity.” At Crocker & Starr estate property in St Helena, the gifted winemaking duo of Pam Starr and Evyn Cameron craft the 600 cases of the winery’s elegant yet playful spring release with a portion of the Musqué clone of Sauvignon Blanc, an aromatic strain imported from the Gironde region of France in 1962. Before planting the first section of estate vines near the river in 1997, Starr worked with this unique aromatic strain of the variety at Spottswoode Winery, where she fell in love with its floral aromas and its ability to enhance the juicy fruit flavors such as guava and white peach with underlying notes of Kaffir lime. While the most considerable portion of the blend was stored in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh flavors and zippy acidity, the rest was aged in concrete eggs and new French oak barrels to add depth, mouthfeel, and length to the finish. The result is a sophisticated estate-grown wine that dazzles the palate from start to finish. “We don’t make Sauvignon Blanc. We grow it and translate it,” said winemaker Pam Starr, with a smile. To increase layers of complexity and charm to the high-end welcoming wine served at the beautiful historic grounds owned by Costco founders David and James Sinegal, winemaker Ryan Knoth of Sinegal Estate Winery in St. Helena uses the Musqué clone, a splash of Semillon, and one-third new French oak. To up the ante, this spring marked the inaugural release of the higher-tiered version, aged in large format Cigar and Puncheon barrels.

“There is a ton of acid but nice mid-palate and texture,” said Knoth. As one of the global leaders of the modern Sauvignon Blanc movement, St. Supéry Winery in Rutherford offers a detailed exploration of four stylish wines made from fruit grown at their high-elevation Dollarhide Ranch estate property in the Vaca Mountains. As a starter, the St. Supéry Sauvignon Blanc is an aromatic wonder with bright flavors of fresh lime, grapefruit, and a refreshing finish. “To me, this wine comes down to the purity of fruit, flavor expression, and acid drive,” said winemaker Michael Schulz, who has been working with fruit from this sustainably farmed vineyard since 1996. On the more sophisticated end of the portfolio, Dollarhide Ranch Estate is a complex wine with flavorful notes of grapefruit, green fig, fennel, sandalwood, smooth texture, and a kiss of French oak. As a classy comparison, the racy, mineraldriven silver label version was aged exclusively in concrete eggs. At the finishing point, Virtu is a Bordeaux-style white blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon

that is lavish and complex on both the nose and palate. As part of its direct to consumers program, Beringer Vineyards makes two expressive versions of Sauvignon Blanc with estate fruit grown behind the Napa Valley welcome sign on Highway 29 in Calistoga. The first is the dry style, which features floral aromas and lively flavors of ripe citrus, tropical fruits, and natural verve. On the sweeter side of the spectrum is the Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, made with sweet, botrytized grapes that are not picked until November or December. Modeled after the style developed in the early 1970s by legendary winemaker Myron Nightingale, this wine fills the mouth with rich flavors of ripe fruits, a burst of natural acidity, and a lingering finish. Stylish, forthright, and approachable in their youth, these new personalized styles of Sauvignon Blanc wines offer a wide selection of aromatic delights and flavorful expressions of Napa Valley on the palate. While delectable to pour and enjoy on their own, these vibrant wines pair perfectly with summer menus, goat cheese, shellfish, and light cuisine.

From tart and bone dry to crisp and fruity and onwards to creamy, elegant, and complex, the art of capturing these aromas and flavors inside the bottle has become the focus of many wineries in the valley over the past few decades. SUMMER 2021

NVL wine

ST. SUPÉRY:

Sustainability Runs Deep  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR | PHOTOS BY MEG SMITH

hink big, think macro, think global. Because when it comes to a deep commitment, being estate-grown, sustainably farmed, and Napa Certified Green are just the tip of the iceberg in the St. Supéry story. Here, sustainability is a way of life across all 1,585 acres and every touchpoint on the entire estate. And beyond always doing what’s right, it’s also about providing information to consumers who love good food and wine and also wish to place trust in its responsible origins. St. Supéry supports a brand promise that extends far beyond the Rutherford vineyards, the premium grapes, and their beautiful wines in the glass. It reaches deep into the soil, the oceans, and extends worldwide to places such as Te Waikoropupū, a pure freshwater spring at the tip of New Zealand’s South Island where rare Ōra King salmon are raised. At St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery, they call it “The Great Sustainable Seafood Tour.” The winery seeks out partnerships with restaurants and seafood purveyors whose environmental stewardship practices are designed to maintain stable fish populations. St. Supéry 60

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introduces the people behind these partnerships, highlights their stories, shares their recipes, and also invites everyone to submit a favorite original seafood recipe that pairs well with St. Supéry Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc for a chance to win a trip to the Napa Valley. For inspiration and to try more delicious dishes, join one of Estate Chef Tod Kawachi’s seasonal Virtual Wine Tastings plus seafood pairings (say “yes” to seafood with red wine) and learn how to make a seafood raw bar at home. Plus, visit the kitchen online for Recipes from the St. Supéry Estate. Back to the wine: It’s the best of French château tradition with Napa Valley terroir in the very heart of Napa Valley. Of course, no one needs a pandemic, nor the quirks of Mother

Nature, to emphasize that community and environmental stewardship also runs deep, much closer to home. Because a small amount of Sauvignon Blanc was harvested before the wildfires that disrupted the 2020 harvest, this vintage is an exceptional one. Indeed, it’s the only wine produced from that vintage. Therefore, St. Supéry Estate is donating $5 of every bottle sold to benefit the Napa Valley Community Foundation Disaster Relief Fund in appreciation of the support received. It is hoped that the sum of over $100,000 will have a lasting positive impact where it’s needed. Prepared and paired at home or a restaurant, “Sustainable seafood paired with sustainable wine is closer than you think,” said St. Supéry. The website highlights the winery’s selected purveyor partners and restaurants with a handy zip code search tool to learn where each wine varietal can be found when shopping and dining out. Alternatively, come in person for sustainable seafood, seasonal veggies, and sips. Guests are welcomed daily; appointments are recommended. FOR MORE INFORMATION stsupery.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 r s.

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

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SPRING MOUNTAIN A Mountainous Winemaking Region Comes Back from the Glass Fire  BY MICHAEL KOEHN

Schweiger Vineyards, Mt. St. Helena, Palisades

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or many wine enthusiasts, bigness in red wine is always a virtue – especially those opaque, jammy, blockbuster cabernets with plenty of tannins. It’s a style that’s dominated the story of Napa Valley reds for years. But an alternative Napa Valley style has also earned accolades over the years, the balanced, more complex wines made from the grapes grown in the volcanic soil on the steep slopes that rise from the Valley floor separating the Napa Valley and Sonoma County to the west. The Spring Mountain AVA (American Viticulture Area), with its diverse topography, volcanic soils, and high elevations exceeding 2500 feet, has produced award-winning reds with intense fruit and elegance and balanced tannins for decades. It’s a location that encompasses about 8,600 acres above St. Helena on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains. With approximately 1,000 acres dedicated to grapes, the area contains a patchwork of steeply-terraced vineyards sometimes hidden in the rolling, deeply-wooded terrain.

“ It’s a time of renewal, and we’re hugely positive and committed to revitalizing the hillside vineyards and wineries. There’s a lot of strength on the Mountain.” – Elizabeth Marston, Marston Family Vineyards

Spring Mountain has a long growing season, with more moderate temperatures than the Valley floor and most vineyards sitting above the fog line. The climate and terroir result in rich, supple wines with characteristic elegance and good acidity complementing ripe, black fruit flavors. “We have a mineral-rich environment on the mountain, with twenty-four different soil types that produce complex, well-structured wines,” explained Sheldon Richards of Paloma Vineyard. Michael Keenan, Director of Keenan Winery, a multigenerational family-owned estate operation on the Mountain, said they are attempting to produce wines that reflect the soil and the area they were grown in, not the craft of the winemaker. “We’re looking for a balance between the New World sweetness and sunshine and the savoriness and complexity of the subdominant flavors that exist in all of our varietals, especially our cabs and merlot. That gets lost if they ripen too long.” The modern history of the AVA starts with Fred McCrea and his wife Eleanor, who, in 1943, discovered a 168-acre plot of land hidden away on the slopes of Spring Mountain while camping. They purchased the property and named it Stony Hill Vineyard. The McCreas loved French white wines, and Stony Hill had the ideal growing conditions for that style. The McCreas built the first postProhibition winery in the Napa Valley in this spot in 1951 and released their inaugural vintage the following year. Other winemakers became attracted to the area in the late sixties and seventies. They founded a number of wineries, including Ritchie Creek, Spring Mountain Vineyard, SmithMadrone, Keenan, Newton, Cain, Barnett, Terra Valentine, and York Creek Vineyards, among the producers located in the AVA. The majority of the area’s wineries are small, familyowned operations, with some

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

4007 S pring M ountain r d . S aint H elena , Ca 94574

SUMMER 2021

Barnett Vineyard team, post fire

NVL wine producing as little as 1,500 cases each year, most from fruit grown exclusively on the Mountain. These wineries are primarily vertically integrated, with resident families taking care of everything from tractor work to international trade shows. In the Spring Mountain AVA, winemakers like to think of themselves as mountain men and women producing mountain wines. “You can’t make great wine from anything other than great grapes, and we get better grapes in the mountains because they have to struggle, and that creates character, and the juice-to-skin ratio of smaller berries creates intensity,” said Stuart Smith of Smith-Madrone Vineyards. Now home to some thirty brands, the Spring Mountain AVA was among the first regions in the Napa Valley to receive

recognition as a unique growing area, and thanks to the efforts of Fritz Maytag and Michael Marston, becoming established as an official American Viticulture Area in 1993. Over decades of winemaking, the Spring Mountain AVA has established a solid reputation for producing fruit-forward,

INFO@PALOMAVINEYARD.COM | 707.963.7504 64

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complex “mountain” wines in various styles through its family-run operations. But in late September of 2020, the Glass Fire put the region, like a lot of areas around St. Helena, back on its heels. In that fire, entire vintages were lost. Many homes and structures were burned to the ground, including significant losses at Cain, Marston Family Vineyard, Newton Vineyard, Paloma Vineyard, Behrens Family Vineyard, Ritchie Creek and Sherwin Family Vineyard. Despite the devasting destruction in the area, the Spring Mountain AVA is now bouncing back, with recovery and rebuilding well underway. “The fire took our 2019 and 2020 vintages, and we lost our winery with its artwork and memorabilia, but my father, coming from a construction background, said our goal is to be the first winery to rebuild,” said Matt Sherwin of Sherwin Family Vineyard. “We could be back in business and operational in three months with the right support. We’re hoping to be able to host small groups of visitors on-site for tastings at my folks’ house nearby or at some local restaurants.” “If there’s a positive that’s come out of the fire, it’s that the community really came together to support each other,” explained Elizabeth Marston

Newton Vineyard, pre-fire Photo by Eric Martin

of Marston Family Vineyard. Marston and her father, Michael, along with Fritz Maytag of York Creek Vineyards, helped create the Spring Mountain AVA back in the 1980s. “It’s a time of renewal, and we’re hugely positive and committed to revitalizing the hillside vineyards and wineries. There’s a lot of strength on the Mountain.” Despite the environmental challenges, with its resilience and ability to recover, the Spring Mountain AVA will continue to produce widely admired vintages and continually rank among the best in the world. As Stuart Smith put it, “producing wine up here is difficult work. We’re a hardy, independent bunch, and you have to be dedicated to survive. And that’s what we intend to do.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION springmountaindistrict.org

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Andesite Vineyard Atchley Vineyard Bale’s Creek Estate Barnett Vineyard Behrens Family Winery Cain Vineyard & Winery Castellucci Napa Valley Charbay Winery Crowley Vineyard Eeden Vineyard & Winery Fantesca Estate Winery Flying Lady Frias Family Vineyard Juslyn Vineyards Keenan Winery Kieu Hoang Winery Lokoya Lüscher-Ballard Marston Family Vineyard Newton Vineyard Paloma Vineyard Peacock Vineyard Pride Mountain Vineyards Ritchie Creek Vineyard Sarocka Estate Schoolhouse Vineyard Schweiger Vineyards Sherwin Winery Smith-Madrone Winery Spring Mountain Vineyard Stony Hill Vineyard Terra Valentine Vineyard 7 & 8 York Creek Vineyards

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American Viticulture Area (AVA) | Est. 1993

SpringMountainDistrict.org SUMMER 2021

NVL wine

Turning to Offense

SHERWIN FAMILY VINEYARDS  BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

ne of the great tragedies of the 2020 wildfires was the destruction of the Sherwin Family Vineyards winery on Spring Mountain. Built through the blood, sweat, and tears of its owner and winemaker Steve Sherwin, the winery housed decades of memorabilia and irreplaceable artwork. The wildfires destroyed 15,000 gallons of wine—the entire 2019 vintage—the first vintage missing in 25 years. Built on a secluded hillside location that is as much forest as vineyards, the familyowned boutique winery is where Steve and Linda Sherwin raised their family, managed the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot vineyards, and produced their prized high-elevation fruit and wine. Steve’s son and General Manager Matt Sherwin recounted the days that led up to the ultimate destruction of the winery: “Over the weekend, wildfires were threatening Howell Mountain. My sister lives there, so that’s where we were focused. We relocated her to our property near the winery—my parents have a house there, and so do I. And then, on Sunday night, 66

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| PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHERWIN FAMILY VINEYARDS

out of the blue, my brother-in-law got a call from someone in the fire department who said, ‘Don’t pack, just leave.’ We raced out and drove down the mountain with flames on both sides of the road until we got to the bottom.” Steve Sherwin refused to leave the property, staying there throughout the next three days even when fire trucks could not make it through. “My Dad never left the mountain; he stayed there doing what he could to hold off the fires.” Matt and others tried to help by using chainsaws on the trees that had fallen across the road up the mountain, clearing the way so that fire trucks could get through—if there were any available. Firefighters did make it through and sprayed down the property. But unfortunately, despite all these efforts, on September 28, the winery went up in flames. A propane tank caught fire and burst, and the fire melted the underground water lines. There was nothing more they could do. Once the fires subsided and the damage was surveyed, the family realized how lucky they were that their homes and vineyards

had been largely spared. Steve told his family, “Now our goal is to be the first winery in the valley to build back. Time to turn to offense.” That is the kind of spirit that emerged post-wildfires. Other wineries contacted the Sherwins, offering to process their fruit. Matt explained how one of their storage facilities for library wines and cased foods, Valley Wine Warehouse, called to say they had space if the Sherwins wanted to use a corner to pack and ship wine sales. Their most significant source of income is their wine club, Cellar Scrappers. Because of the kindness and generosity of their neighbors, remarkably, they were able to ship the wine club in October. “People were crazy good to us,” Matt shared. The Sherwin family turned to offense. They began rebuilding the winery and ordering equipment right away. The building is now taking shape, and the new tanks have been installed in the cellar. At this pace, it looks like the family will meet their goal of harvesting and making wine in their new facility by fall 2021. FOR MORE INFORMATION

sherwinfamilyvineyards.com

MERLOT: Michael Keenan on His Favorite Varietal  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR | PHOTO BY DIGIVINO.COM

here is no mistaking what Michael Keenan thinks about his favorite grape. “Merlot is unquestionably one of the greatest varietals in the world,” the president and owner of Keenan Winery said. “And Spring Mountain is one of the best appellations in the world for Merlot, a runaway winner in my mind.” Keenan anticipates the obvious question: Recall the time when mediocre Merlot flooded the market, and it couldn’t be given away? His ready response involves a belief that the varietal’s bad reputation from the movie “Sideways” in 2004 actually helped eliminate mediocrity in the vineyard by improving the gene pool through deletion. Founded in 1977, the second generation Keenan vintner is proud to be growing terroir-centric fruit in Napa’s Spring Mountain District, high in the Mayacamas mountain range above the town of St. Helena. In nineteen separate blocks across four different vineyards on the property, healthy Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc vines of 20-plus years thrive in ideal soil and climate conditions.

Keenan believes his ten steep hillside acres planted to Merlot vines produce some of the finest Merlot in all of Napa Valley. Blessed with plenty of sunshine, tremendously rocky soil that provides excellent drainage, and just the right amount of stress from the leaner high elevation sites, Michael believes that this is truly Merlot heaven. The higher elevation above the fog line ensures markedly cooler temperatures than in the valley below. As a result, the vines produce smaller berries with more tannins, great intensity, and a higher acid profile for wines that are bold, full-bodied, profound, deep, and long-lived. Every year, four different 100% Merlots are bottled, three of which are single-vineyard bottlings, the Carneros Merlot (400 cases), The Reserve ‘Mailbox’ Merlot (300 cases), and 50 cases of the “Original.” The 4th Merlot bottling, and their most significant bottling, is the 2500 case Napa Merlot. This bottling is usually 75% estate fruit, 25% Carneros fruit, and is the Merlot that the Court of Master Sommeliers has used for years as the ‘Benchmark’ North-Coast

Merlot. At the moment, Merlot vintages dating back to 1983 are available from the library. In so many ways, 2020 has been a strange year, and that goes for the world of wine as well. Keenan observed his latest bud break in living history (April 10), as if the vines knew what the weather would do. Indeed, May was consistently perfect, sunny with no heat spikes. Those who know him expect that to hear that one thing Michael Keenan says again and again, “The real point of wine is to better enjoy the accompanying food.” And if food pairings are one of the great things about drinking wine, Keenan is all-in on his top pick: Mexican molé with earthy, spicy Merlot. Spring Mountain District is one of Napa Valley’s oldest wine regions. Pointing to the 1904 winery building, Keenan pointed out, “There are certain things you can only see at the winery.” Visitors are welcome and invited to bring a picnic and enjoy sitting in the shade under the trees overlooking the vineyards. Open seven days a week by appointment. FOR MORE INFORMATION keenanwinery.com SUMMER 2021

NVL wine

Photos by Kathryn Bryan

Pride Mountain Vineyards ONE RANCH - TWO COUNTIES

ride Mountain Vineyards is situated on 235 acres of beautiful vineyard and forest land at the crest of the Mayacamas Mountains, where Napa County and Sonoma County meet. A handsome stone arch celebrates this alliance, drawing the eye to the county line which runs through the vineyards and across the crush pad. On the terrace outside the extensive wine caves, Mount St. Helena and the Coastal Range views are spectacular. A pre-Prohibition “ghost winery” on the lower part of the ranch hints at the property’s long history of grape growing and wine production. Now in its 31st year of winemaking, Pride Mountain Vineyards was founded by Jim and Carolyn Pride in 1990 and passed to the second generation in 2004. Steve Pride is the winery’s CEO and actively manages all aspects of the business, focusing on vineyard management and winemaking. After many years of driving the human resources and health and safety programs, Suzanne Pride Bryan and her husband Stuart Bryan, the winery’s former director of national sales, are now the winery’s vintner ambassadors. Winemaker Sally 68

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Johnson joined the team in 2007. With a background in both artisanal winemaking and modern science, she has been pivotal in taking the quality of Pride’s wines to new and higher levels. Well known for producing cuvées of exceptional quality from its mountaintop vineyards, Pride wines are labeled with the percentage of grapes from each county, leading to the phrase, “One Ranch ~ Two Counties” on each bottle. Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Viognier, Syrah, and Sangiovese are all grown, produced, and bottled onsite. Interestingly, even though the estate’s Napa vineyards fall within the Spring Mountain District, the designation cannot be included on wine labels because the Sonoma vineyards are outside the geographical boundaries of the AVA. At an elevation of 2,100 feet, the property’s terroir is characterized by copious sunlight, gentle south-facing exposures, and vineyards above the morning fog. Meticulous farming in this unique setting produces red wines of depth, density, varietal character, and just the right amount of acidity due to the cool afternoon breezes.

Pride Mountain Vineyards is honored to have been served at the White House more than 30 times since 1999 and to be one of just 156 wineries included in Robert Parker Jr.’s book, The World’s Greatest Wine Estates. The wines throughout Pride’s portfolio frequently garner ratings in the mid to upper 90’s by mainstream wine critics, with the Reserve wines consistently in the 95-to98-point range. Hospitality is taken as seriously as winemaking at Pride Mountain Vineyards. Pride’s wine educators, many with five to ten years at the winery, take genuine pleasure in making guests feel welcome and in providing a fun and educational tasting experience. Hundreds of TripAdvisor and Yelp reviewers have given their visit 5-stars, calling out the great wines, convivial atmosphere, and unique progressive tasting in the caves. Pride Mountain Vineyards is a scenic drive up Spring Mountain Road from St. Helena or up St. Helena Road from Santa Rosa. Delicious wines, stunning vistas, and warm smiles are the reward for those who make the trek. Guests are welcome by appointment. FOR MORE INFORMATION pridewines.com

Fantesca Estate and Winery

The Journey of Hope, Opportunity and Perseverance Photos courtesy of Fantesca Estate & Winery

here’s no denying the challenges presented over the past year have been daunting in every facet of life. Global pandemics and regional fires burdened an already demanding industry that has overcome adversity time and time again. But life, like winemaking, is a journey of hope, opportunity, and perseverance. When smoke, char, ash, and debris were remnants of the Glass Fire in 2020 and challenged the spirit of the Napa Valley and Sonoma, it was met with resilience. It took the life work of many away far too soon. Fantesca’s scars were limited to harvest equipment and the winery’s iconic tasting deck overlooking the vineyard that had hosted proposals, celebrations, and more cheers than ever imaginable.

Despite the challenges presented, hope guided the spirits of the team. The ingenuity of world-class winemaker Heidi Barrett has shined bright. Saving estate fruit and utilizing 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Fantesca’s estate vineyard on Spring Mountain presented the opportunity to release its first rosé since 2011, La Petite Rose. In an industry where the only thing better than the wine is a good story, this release means everything to a small familyowned winey looking for the silver lining. “I'm particularly proud of this wine made in such a difficult year,” said Heidi Barrett. “From chaos came beauty, and all of us at Fantesca hope you enjoy this wine, the only one we were able to produce from our estate vineyards this year.”

Now Fantesca aims to welcome guests back to its esteemed Spring Mountain tasting room with newly curated experiences paired with hospitality excellence that has been fundamental to its success. “With star winemakers Heidi Barrett and Tony Arcudi in the cellar and super-sommelier DLynn Proctor steering the ship, Fantesca has ascended the ranks of the Napa Valley elite in record time,” said Ian Cauble, founder of SommSelect and cast member of the acclaimed wine documentary SOMM. “At the core of everything is the best possible mountain-grown fruit, both from the home base on Spring Mountain and other prime high-elevation Napa sites.” Fantesca has long held that great wine isn’t a trophy to collect but a treasure to be shared with family and close friends. When touring the acclaimed Spring Mountain AVA, be sure to add this destination as a must-see experience for excellent views, curated experiences, and world-class winemaking. FOR MORE INFORMATION

Fantesca.com/La-Petite-Rose SUMMER 2021

CORNUCOPIA: Photo courtesy of Mercadito Food Truck

Napa Valley's

BEST

VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN  BY ELIZABETH SMITH

ariations of plant-based diets such as vegetarian and vegan have rapidly grown in popularity in recent years for ethical and wellness reasons. Farmers, food purveyors, chefs, and restaurants throughout the world have responded to the increased demand. Gone are the days of bland and boring dishes like plain salads and pasta. Instead, chefs and cooks are developing colorful, flavorful, and healthful dishes that satisfy the most discerning palates. Napa Valley’s chefs and restaurants are especially fortunate to have access to the freshest ingredients from local farms to create oneof-a-kind dishes to accompany the area’s world-class wines. Below are a few of the best to whet one’s appetite.

C CASA C Casa, located in Napa’s Oxbow Public Market, serves “reimagined Mexican food.” Since its opening in 2011, the restaurant has offered a 100% gluten-free menu comprised of locally sourced and housemade ingredients. Founder and president Catherine Bergen and her team also created several plant-based dishes for guests who chose to live a vegetarian lifestyle or wanted lighter fare, many of which remain on the menu today. The most popular include tacos, nachos, and a taco salad made with the restaurant’s organic white corn tortillas or chips, plus fillings and garnishments such as white or black beans, avocado, sweet or white potatoes, pico de gallo, grilled corn salsa, mixed greens, a variety of cheeses, roasted poblanos, and chipotle or garlic aioli. As time passed, more guests began special ordering vegan versions of these dishes. In 2019, C Casa developed a vegan-only menu that features a “build your own” salsa bar, seven-layer dip with chips, “Nachos Not!”, and a power green, grilled corn and edamame salad. “It is our pleasure to offer many choices no matter what lifestyle you choose,” said Bergin. C Casa will be moving to a larger space with an expanded menu in the Oxbow Market in Fall 2021. // myccasa.com

Two of the restaurant’s staff members, Maria Diaz and Lilly Bracco, follow a vegan diet and provide their guidance and opinions regarding creative and exciting menu items like the popular San Diego Dirty Fries and avocado fries. Both are available at the restaurant and on The Best Food Truck Ever by Heritage Eats at the weekly Farmers Market and private events. Haven Napa, their sister chicken wing ‘ghost kitchen’, offers cauliflower wings in lieu of meat. Also, most of the restaurant’s proteins, toppings, and sauces are glutenfree, and some are dairy-free as well. // heritageeats.com

KITCHEN DOOR When Chef Todd Humphries opened Kitchen Door at Napa’s Oxbow Public Market in 2011, his goal was to offer globally inspired, comfort food with locally sourced ingredients of excellent quality and value. He has always been an advocate of vegetarian and vegan dishes because of the availability and variety of local ingredients.

Even at the former Martini House in St. Helena, he served a four-course mushroom and vegetable menu. That tradition continues at Kitchen Door, where Humphries developed innovative vegetarian menu items with mushrooms instead of meat, such as the Banh Mi sandwich, cream of mushroom soup, and mushroom fried rice Donburi, a dish with spring peas, asparagus, furikake, scallions, and pickled ginger. The restaurant also serves fresh-baked herb flatbread (vegan), made with extra virgin olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Vegetable side dishes include California asparagus and seasonal vegetables. After ten years at the current location, Kitchen Door will close in June 2021 and reopen in late 2021 at a new downtown location at 1300 First Street, Suite 272, off the Clay Street Promenade. // kitchendoornapa.com

Avocado Fries Photo courtesy of Heritage Eats

Cream of Mushroom Soup Photo by Laura Larson

HERITAGE EATS Ben and Ali Koenig, owners of Heritage Eats, prioritize offering a diverse menu that will satisfy various customer preferences and diets, including plant-based options. Since the restaurant’s inception, the menu has included vegetarian and vegan rice and salad bowls, wraps, falafel, grilled tofu, and sides such as waffle fries, sweet potato fries, and Brussels sprouts.

C Casa Vegan Taco Salad Photo courtesy of C Casa

SUMMER 2021

NVL food enchiladas, potato flautas, Earth Day tacos, and weekly dinner meal kits. Every Friday is Vegan Day, and specials vary. Atayde passionately embodies his business slogan, “Food for everyone,” including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary accommodations. Mercadito Food Truck is usually located adjacent to St. Clair Brown Winery and Brewery. Atayde offers event catering and partners with local wineries. // mercaditofoodtruck.com

SMALL WORLD RESTAURANT Established in 1995, Napa’s Small World Restaurant brings to the valley a tradition of “good food and a smile,” which means Mediterranean-style family recipes from the heart of The Holy Land, “Lil’ Nazareth.” The menu features breakfast, fruit smoothies, gyros, kebabs, pitas, platters, salads, sides, and snacks. Many of the dishes are vegetarian to satisfy the desire for delicious and healthy meat alternatives. Popular dishes include the vegetarian pitas – baba ghanoush, original falafel, and grilled eggplant, mushroom, and zucchini – as well as the falafel and hummus platters, garden burger, and baklava. Small World will also prepare gluten-free dishes by advance request and offers catering for events of all sizes. // smallworldrestaurant.com

Vegetarian Market Ramen Photo by Laura Larson

Vegan Kickin' Queso Plant Burger Photo courtesy of The Dutch Door

Falafel Gyro Photo courtesy of Small World Restaurant

MANGO ON MAIN BY MINI MANGO THAI BISTRO Chef and owner Anchalee Chitamnauyothin and her husband, Mee Pengchareon, founded the original Mini Mango Thai Bistro location on Clay Street in 2009 to bring affordable and delectable Bangkokstyle Thai food to Napa Valley. In 2013, they opened their larger restaurant, Mango on Main by Mini Mango Thai Bistro, on Main Street near Pearl Street. At this current location, Chitamnauyothin prepares dishes from recipes passed down from her mother and grandmother, which she describes as “Thai comfort food with California accents.” Popular vegetarian and vegan menu items include the Bangkok pot stickers, Buddha bowl with spinach and soft tofu, coconut and tom kha soups with a choice of vegetables or soft tofu, double drunken wide noodles with tofu, vegan Kabocha red and “Massamun” curries, oven-roasted shitake spring rolls, ramen noodles, sweet potato and chickpea 72

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samosa, and a tofu bar. Gluten-free options, including noodles, are also available. // mangoonmain.com

MERCADITO FOOD TRUCK In 2016, Chef Valentín Atayde founded Mercadito Food Truck to offer authentic Mexican dishes inspired by the farmfresh market ingredients and street food in Mexico City, where he lived before moving to California. His menu is continually evolving and is not always Mexican, recently offering his take on Italian pasta. Regardless of the cuisine, every dish is hand-made with what Atayde describes as “love and creativity,” incorporating the finest ingredients sourced from local farmers. “We’re especially looking forward to having fresh summer produce like tomatoes, peppers, and squash to play with,” he shared. Having experienced tasteless plant-based meals himself, he is committed to offering appetizing vegan dishes such as chile relleno, mole

THE DUTCH DOOR The brainchild of Chef Brent Pennington of Pennington Provisions, The Dutch Door, as its name indicates, is Pennington’s way of offering “crave-worthy hits” from his kitchen through a Dutch door to customers desiring delicious food to go. When arriving in Napa eight years ago, he saw the Napa Valley food scene has a plethora of incredible Michelin star rated and fast-food restaurants, but it was “missing the middle.” The Dutch Door fills that void by offering what Pennington describes as “casual gourmet.” He took it a step further by recognizing the growing need for plant-based meal options. Customer favorites include the vegan Kickin’ Queso Plant Burger and two menu originals, the vegan Buddha and Kale Yeah! bowls. Pennington launches a new vegan bowl every two months and is planning new sandwich specials, including the vegan Reuben and Plant Parmesan return. All bowls are gluten-free, and sandwiches and burgers can be made without bread. Another plus is that the entire menu is 100% organic, and the takeout containers are compostable. The Dutch Door menu is available for both takeout and delivery. // thedutchdoornapa.com

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF NAPA VALLEY CUISINE

Introducing Chef Erik Anderson at TRUSS Restaurant + Bar. The home for modern fine dining and genuine hospitality in the heart of wine country, patrons of TRUSS Restaurant + Bar will be overlooking lush views of the Calistoga vineyards and Palisades Mountains while experiencing inventive culinary excellence curated by Executive Chef Erik Anderson.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley 400 Silverado Trail Calistoga, CA 94515 | United States E: Truss.NapaValley@fourseasons.com P: (707) 709-2100 SUMMER 2021

NVL food

SUMMER PEACH SALAD 4 Servings

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

− Non-stick frypan − Large salad bowl & tossing tools − Knives: general utility & paring − Wood spoon or spatula INGREDIENTS:

Cooking with

KAREN CROUSE One of the best ways to build your confidence in cooking without a recipe is to start with salads. A simple yet savory salad can be more memorable than an elaborate entrée.

easonal, garden-fresh ingredients are essential to salads. How they are prepared and assembled is equally as important. Fresh lettuces have a delicate yet sweet or herbaceous flavor. Most of those readily available are fairly neutral, so any additions should complement each other. My secret rule of thumb is to include greens, fruits, cheeses, and nuts (usually toasted and sometimes pulverized). Salads are more appealing and substantial when you mix flavors and textures. This is my favorite summer salad! The creamy earthiness of the goat cheese, the savory crunch of the almonds, and the sweetness of the ripe peach are a tantalizing fusion for the tastebuds. It is also picture-worthy. FOR MORE INFORMATION

karencrousenapavalley.com 74

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− 1 large head of butter lettuce − 1 large peach − ½ cup raw Marcona Almonds − Coarse salt − 1 T of Herbs (I like Herbs de Provence) − 2-4 oz crumbled goat cheese − Good quality olive oil (I like Sevillano) − Balsamic Vinegar glaze or aged balsamic vinegar (the good stuff!) − Salt and pepper to taste INSTRUCTIONS:

Toast the Marcona Almonds − Place the almonds in a non-stick pan set on medium-high heat, making sure to also include all of the oil from the container. − Add coarse salt and/or herbs. − Stir constantly until all of the almonds are lightly toasted on both sides. − Remove from heat and cool on parchment paper. The almonds will become firmer as they cool. Salad − Wash and dry the lettuce. Tear (don’t cut) the leaves into several pieces and put them in a large bowl. − Peel and slice the peach. − Add the peach, almonds, and 2 ounces of goat cheese to the lettuce. − Add more almonds and/or goat cheese based on your taste. You want to make sure that you have a balanced amount of each ingredient in the salad. I typically use all 4 ounces of goat cheese so its earthy flavor is not lost to the fruit and nuts. − Toss the salad with olive oil, adding a little at a time until the lettuce is just glistening. You want the lettuce and the other ingredients to be the star of the show, so don’t drown them with oil. TO SERVE: Divide the salad into four bowls

and drizzle the balsamic vinegar on top of each salad. Serve with Cappy Shakes Cocktails Cucumber Cooler (www.cappyshakes.com) and celebrate Summer.

TIP: HOW TO CHOOSE A PEACH

A ripe peach smells sweet has a deeper yellow color and is rounder.

A MODEL of SUSTAINABILITY Cherish Market Garden & Orchard  BY FRAN MILLER

ynne Rodgers had just completed her education as a nurse practitioner when COVID disrupted her intended life path. As she witnessed the unprecedented shutdowns and closures within Napa Valley, she had an epiphany. “I realized that the Valley’s ability to feed the entire community if necessary is not viable,” said Rodgers, an associate of family-owned Rodgers Vineyards. “So I set about creating a sustainability project within our Oak Knoll property.” Over the past year, Rodgers has successfully created from the ground up a 3.5-acre, biodiverse environment where she grows a number of crops, raises fish, sheep, chickens, and ducks, and keeps honey bees – two varieties to be exact: Carniolan and Italians. Named Cherish Market Garden & Orchard, the project is presently a private effort, but Rodgers plans to one day soon share the bucolic farm and its bounty with the public via educational tours and a CSA subscription box offering. (She currently supplies Napa Valley Bistro with her produce, and she also donates to the AGAPE Food Pantry.) “I wanted to create exactly what is needed to keep us and the ranch going on our own,” said Rodgers. Currently, the farm produces or is creating the infrastructure to produce fruits, vegetables, nuts, honey, poultry, meat, eggs, milk, butter, and cheese. Rodgers also wanted her project to be aesthetically pleasing. An abundance of botanicals accomplishes this goal, each a role-player in the sustainable and biodiverse

Lynne and Gideon Photo courtesy of Cherish Market Garden & Orchard

Over the past year, Rodgers has successfully created from the ground up a 3.5-acre, biodiverse environment where she grows a number of crops, raises fish, sheep, chickens, and ducks, and keeps honey bees...

environment in which Rodgers follows a highly artistic permaculture philosophy. “The fish in our pond create fish emulsion that I use to fertilize the botanicals; the botanicals are fed to the chickens, the eggshells of which go back into the soil.” It’s an organic cycle, one that includes the use of sheep as natural lawnmowers. Currently amidst completing the farm’s infrastructure in anticipation of its future public opening, Rodgers credits the success of her efforts to the support of husband John and Rodgers Vineyards vineyard manager Anna Hickey. “Anna has been the most supportive advocate, agent, consultant, coach, and incredible mentor throughout this journey,” said Rodgers, who referenced a recent 3 am text from Hickey urging her to protect her citrus from imminent frost. Yet Rodgers also credits her nurse practitioner training and previous farm work to her speedy learning curve. “Nurse practitioners have an incredible background in science and a variety of skills that are transferable; I will serve, for instance, as midwife to my sheep when necessary,” said Rodgers. In the interest of feeding both the body and the soul, Rodgers also created what she calls ‘The Window Project’ – a garden loaner library of inspirational books, the objective of which is to spread goodwill and brotherly love. “The concept came from the love of my husband John, who urged me to build my garden and who provided the means to do so,” said Rodgers. “I named the garden ‘Cherish’ in his honor.” SUMMER 2021

Functional Art for Everyday Life:

NEW WEST KNIFEWORKS

 BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEW WEST KNIFEWORKS

A tumultuous year of sheltering and staying in place forced many of us to seek comfort in the simplest of pleasures: a homegrown tomato, a chair placed within a small spotlight of sun, a homecooked meal, and the perfect tools with which to make it. Without the typical distraction of our normally busy lives, the small things took on greater significance.

ritish textile designer William Morris once famously said, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” That sentiment is shared by Corey Milligan, Founder of New West KnifeWorks, whose aim is to make functional art for everyday life. Bold, colorful, and begging to be displayed, NWKW knives are not simply utilitarian. Each is a mini piece of art, as heirloom 76

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worthy as a Piaget watch; their resilience recently illustrated when a Napa fire victim lost nearly everything, save for the charred remains of his NWKW kitchen knives, one of which the company was able to restore. With colorful handles and etched details, each knife pairs the ultra-sharp sleekness of Eastern-style chef’s knives with a western edginess and toughness. “We aim to bring more joy to everyday

chores by making tools that are as beautiful as they are useful,” said Milligan. The self-taught cook founded his company in 1997 after failing to find kitchen tools with which he was satisfied. “I thought, ‘here is a tool I use all the time; I like to make things; let’s see if I can make my own knife.’ That morphed into an understanding of how knives are made, and I realized I could do it better myself.”

Pictured above: The Rock Block, New West's one-of-a-kind functional knife sculpture.

And he has. With a team of artisans in Victor, Idaho, Milligan has established NWKW’s reputation as one of the country’s leading knifemakers. Reviews from The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Food and Wine, and Sunset Magazine have lauded the unique combination of form and function. Bon Appetit hailed the nimble Jackson Holebased company - that continues to refine its cutting-edge wares - as creating “the perfect balance of power and grace.”

“ We aim to bring more joy to everyday chores by making tools that are as beautiful as they are useful.” In addition to its production line, Milligan has recently built a state-of-the-art forge at the factory to highlight the work of knifemaking prodigy Jack Rellstab. Rellstab’s exquisite, hand-forged Damascus blades push the craft of knifemaking to the level of fine art, bringing the passion of a poet to the heat of the forge. “As artists, you never really achieve perfection,” said Rellstab. “It doesn’t exist anywhere but in your head. So striving to create something as close to your vision as you can possibly make it is what we’re trying to do. When someone picks up one of my knives, my hope is that they’re taken aback by it. That they didn’t know something like that could exist.” NWKW’s St. Helena shop features a rotating array of Rellstab’s custom knives as well as those from other prominent American bladesmiths. Although NWKW knives are indeed objets d’art, the company remains focused on the utilitarian aspect of its product. Local restaurants such as Goose & Gander, PRESS, and Solbar present NWKW knives to guests, and many Napa Valley chefs use NWKW knives in their kitchens. Then there are the everyday cooks, such as local writer Allison Levine who included NWKW knives in a recent Napa Valley Register column, ‘Five Items Getting Me Through Home Life,’ in which she lauds their beauty and efficacy. “They are gorgeous, sharp, and sturdy,” said Levine. “They make me feel like a pro in the kitchen.” Knives this beautiful deserve an equally beautiful way to display them, and NWKW custom, one-of-a-kind “Rock Blocks”

Artist, Connor Liljestrom, in gallery with his Western Contemporary works.

Knife making prodigy, Jack Rellstab, displays his latest Damascus steel creation.

Connor Liljestrom. “The Watchers I,” 2020. Oil and mixed media on linen, 76 in x 94 in.

and “Resin Magnets” provide the perfect platform. “We wanted to make something that celebrates the beauty of these fine tools, that are beautiful in and of themselves, but also inspire you to take them down, put them to use, and create something delicious to share with your loved ones,” said Milligan, whose appreciation for fine art is also now demonstrated with his opening of New West Fine Art, a gallery next to his flagship Jackson store that features the works of Jackson native Conor Liljestrom, a rising star of Western contemporary art. In addition to making an impact in the kitchen, Milligan strives to impact each community in which NWKW finds a retail home. In Jackson, this meant putting knife production on hold to produce hand sanitizer when the community supply ran low last

Spring. The company has sponsored various auctions and raffles to raise money for World Central Kitchen in its mission to provide hot meals where they’re needed most. In Napa, NWKW has most recently helped raise funds for publishing local writer Jess Lander’s, The Essential Napa Valley Cookbook, the proceeds of which will benefit vulnerable restaurant workers in the area. “We do all we can to have a positive impact on our communities,” said Milligan. “The past year really brought home the importance of ‘loving thy neighbor.’ And more, it brought home that we are all each other’s neighbors, even if we don’t live next door.” FOR MORE INFORMATION

707-244-5188 // newwestknifeworks.com 1380 Main Street, St. Helena, CA SUMMER 2021

NVL side trip

Mendocino Majestic Redwoods and Pinot Magic

Headlands // Photo by Brendan McGuigan

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

The map tells us that the journey to Mendocino village is 128 miles from downtown Napa on California Route 128. However, GPS cannot describe the experience that feels like a journey back in time. Founded at the start of the Gold Rush, historic Mendocino is all about a slower pace, not a higher speed internet. So, bring hiking shoes, binoculars, and even paintbrushes, but leave the laptop at home, perhaps. 78

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Mendocino Village // Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

s it turns out, majestic redwoods and craggy Pacific coastlines go great with fresh air and Northern California wine tasting, including sparkling wine. Explore wineries en route to town. Boonville (pop: 1,035) and Philo (pop: 349) are 35 to 40 miles south of Main Street in Mendocino. A magnet for pinot lovers, Anderson Valley AVA is one of the nation’s best for this cool climate varietal. What could be better for elegant fruit than foggy, breezy ocean-tempered nights and heat-laden, sugar-forming afternoons when daytime temperatures rise by 45 to 55 degrees?

Anderson Valley Wineries There are over 550 vineyards and 50 wineries in the ten smaller, diverse AVAs within the larger Mendocino County AVA, one of California’s northernmost and coldest wine-growing regions. For many of them, it’s not a question of “will there be frost?” Rather, it’s “how many frosts will there be?” In 1982, Jean-Claude Rouzaud, former president of the seventh-generation brand Champagne Louis Roederer—the venerable house of Cristal—came to “the middle of nowhere” and purchased a 580-acre vineyard and winery site in Mendocino County. Since its production début in 1988, Roederer Estates is one of California’s premier sparkling wine producers and is heavily invested in biodynamic farming. // Roedererestate.com Stop in at a sister winery to Roederer; it’s just five minutes down the road. In addition to notable méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, The Tasting Room at Scharffenberger Cellars is a destination for its changing displays of local artists’ works. Enjoy a picnic in the garden or on the porch, check out the 900-year-old redwood tree. // scharffenbergercellars.com Foursight Wines, named as a tribute to four generations, dates their family farming to 1942. Known for Pinot Noir and cool climate, lower alcohol Alsatian-style Chardonnay, the vines enjoy 55-degree diurnal swings, making the pinot grapes happy. Speaking about his unfiltered philosophy, owner/winemaker Joe Webb said, “We decided to be the first winery in the country to put ‘Suitable for vegans and vegetarians’ on the wine label to begin a conversation with people about what is going into the wine.” // Foursightwines.com At Long Meadow Ranch in Philo, proximity to the cool coastline means that Pinot Noir is the primary red wine, grown

Wine tasting in Anderson Valley Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County Roederer // Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

Goldeneye // Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

organically on 50 acres near the Navarro River. A natural marine layer blankets the vineyards and creates a terroir that’s ideal for the Burgundian style. An additional 15 acres are planted to Chardonnay and just over two acres of Pinot Gris closest to the river. Long Meadow Ranch also has a restaurant and a dozen cottages. // Longmeadowranch.com

Things to Do Mendocino is famous for festivals; something is going on outdoors every month of the year: Pinot Noir, music, film, whales, beer, rhododendrons, arts and craft, wine, and mushrooms. Between festivals, the DNA of the place is all about beautiful bluffs and beaches, lighthouses and spectacular vistas, kayaks,

botanical gardens, and state parks. Those looking for standouts that cannot be found anywhere else should explore Glass Beach, where the pounding surf and rolling waves have turned rocks to glass. Hike along Pygmy Forest Discovery Trail to see mature knee-high trees in Van Damme State Park. Find the 36-foot waterfall in Russian Gulch State Park and the spot where waves crash into a collapsed sea cave called Devil’s Punchbowl. South of town is a place to rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or a canoe from Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too at The Stanford Inn. Push off into Big River Estuary, where the currents are gentle and the wildlife is plentiful. Watch for harbor seals, river otters, and shorebirds. // catchacanoe.com North of town, Fort Bragg is a favorite for family fun, chiefly the Skunk Train. It’s a magical ride on a historic railway through the old-growth redwood groves, over trestle bridges, into tunnels, and out again into SUMMER 2021

Hiking at Russian Gulch Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

NVL side trip

Skunk Train // Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

Little River Inn Sunset from an Ocean View Room Photo by Michael Ryan

Cuisine Jason Azevedo. (Ask about the story of how James Dean once got kicked out.) Guests at the inn’s 65 petfriendly rooms—some with wood-burning or gas fireplaces—can enjoy golf and tennis, too. // littleriverinn.com

Where Else to Stay Glass Beach California Photo courtesy of Visit Mendocino County

the lush canyon. Catch it in Fort Bragg or Willitts. Alternatively, try the custom-built electric-powered two-person railbikes on the Redwood Route. // Skunktrain.com As an alternative to driving, take a day trip from Napa for wine tasting in Anderson Valley. Cultured Vine can provide a helicopter to Philo for a paired lunch under the giant oak tree at Goldeneye Winery, “the pearly gates of Pinot Noir.” For a special occasion, celebrate with Goldeneye Brut Rosé made from select blocks of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, capturing layers of blood orange, honeydew, and hazelnut flavors in the bubbles. // culturedvine.com/ beyond-the-vines // goldeneyewinery.com

Eat & Drink GoodLife Cafe & Bakery in tiny Mendocino village is one way to start a good day. Everything is homemade on the premises, placed on display to tempt. Gluten-free options are plentiful; try the 80

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blueberry streusel or a breakfast burrito and veggie cake to accompany a cup of organic, fair-trade, locally roasted coffee. Grab a seat at the window to observe the local scene and check the corkboard notices to find out what’s going on in town. // goodlifecafemendo.com A culinary destination restaurant since 1968, Chef Julian is at the helm of family-owned Cafe Beaujolais. Dine in the beautiful rose garden where wood-fired pizza is prepared; everything is made with organically grown produce. The Waiting Room is open for coffee and pastries at the Last Door on Ukiah Street, and The Nicholson House makes Cafe Beaujolais an all-in-one destination with their luxury accommodation at the House Next Door. // cafebeaujolais.com Terrific ocean views compete with wellcrafted cocktails at Ole’s Whale Watch Bar adjacent to Little River Inn’s dining room. Dungeness Crab Croque Madame is a unique seasonal creation from Chef de

MacCallum House is toprated, a charming Victorian with 19 rooms in the center of town. In the hotel’s restaurant, Chef Alan Kantor ensures that this is one of Northern California’s special places to dine and stay. // maccallumhouse.com Dine and stay in secluded luxury on a 1.5-mile site with 20 miles of trails. The Inn at Newport Ranch is where Executive Chef Adam Stacy plucks freshness from a bounteous garden for his California ranch-inspired cuisine that comes with a Michelin-starred pedigree. // TheInnatNewportRanch.com Perched high on a bluff top overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Brewery Gulch Inn reigns cathedral-like over the dramatic coast. Built from 150-year-old redwood reclaimed from nearby Big River, the ten romantic rooms—many with deep, two-person tubs and private decks—all look out over pictureperfect views of Smuggler’s Cove. // brewerygulchinn.com FOR MORE INFORMATION

VisitMendocino.com

2040AtlasPeak.com

301Troon.com

2040 Atlas Peak Rd, Napa | 41+ Acres | $7,500,000

301 Troon Dr, Napa | 4BD | 3BA | $2,150,000

894OakLeaf.com

3313Kensington.com

762cottagedrive.com

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

3313 Kensington Cir, Napa | 3BD | 2BA $845,000

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

SOLD

153StoneMountain.com

153 Stone Mountain Cir | Silverado CC Lot $575,000

545 Westgate Dr, Napa | 4BD | 4BA Sold For $2,100,000

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

SOLD

324 Saint Andrews Dr, Napa | 4BD | 3BA Sold For $1,500,000

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

TheMaglioccoGroup.com | Napa Valley Real Estate

SUMMER 2021

NVL real estate spotlight

D ream HOME MOVE into YOUR USING

PROP. 19 T

he current real estate market is crazy. Prices are high, there are not enough houses for sale, and interest rates on home loans remain low. With the dynamic shift of people working and studying at home due to the global pandemic, some homeowners have realized that their current residence no longer meets their needs and need to find homes that are a better fit. Many require more space to accommodate adult children living at home or have kids homeschooling. Some are even considering moving to live closer to extended family or relocating from a small city footprint to a larger home in a rural neighborhood. There is also a wave of homeowners among the baby boomer generation who are downsizing, many of whom are hesitant to purchase a new home because they fear

paying a significant uplift on their real estate taxes. With annual real estate tax rates running at 1.25%, making a move can be discouraging, if not prohibitive, especially among buyers who purchased homes when the prices were significantly lower than they are today, putting many sellers outside the realm of affordability. When my clients tell me they’re hesitant to make a move, I like to show them how California’s recently enacted Proposition 19 can be a solution for their problem. Under “Prop. 19,” California homeowners, ages 55+, can transport their property tax basis with them and retain it for use on the replacement home they buy, regardless of the purchase price. A senior can do this up to three times, and for persons who lost their homes in recent wildfires they may have unlimited

tax basis transfers on their residential replacements. Beyond the personal financial benefits to buyers, Proposition 19 creates additional housing re-sale inventory for those who need different homes for their own changed circumstances. Whether working or schooling at home or for multi-generational living as a childcare or eldercare solution, the new law is a win-win as it also creates more inventory for down-sizing seniors and those seeking to live nearer to relatives in higher-priced regions of the state. If you’re considering buying or selling a new home, I’d like to help you learn more about “Prop. 19” and how it could help you make the right move with an informed decision.

Tracy Warr // Napa Tracy Style Napa Valley Real Estate Specialist

My mother was a REALTOR®, I’m a REALTOR®, and my daughter is a REALTOR®, so you could say that real estate is in our blood. Having pursued this profession for more than 17 years, my passion for the Napa Valley began in 1985, when I bought my restaurant in Calistoga. While food and beverage hospitality allowed me to share my love of our Valley with visitors and locals, I have found that helping people sell and buy real property affords me the best opportunity to get more folks to fulfill their dreams experience their own Napa Valley passions. (707) 287-1994 // TWARR@CBNAPAVALLEY.COM // NAPATRACYSTYLE.COM // DRE# 01443203

M E E T PAC A S O Co-founded by former Zillow executive and Napa resident Austin Allison, Pacaso is a service that helps buyers co-own a second home. The idea is simple: Give more people an opportunity to achieve second homeownership, and help ensure second homes are being utilized rather than sitting vacant most of the year. Co-ownership isn’t a new concept — it’s been around for decades, especially in sought-after locations like Napa Valley. But most people have taken a DIY approach to co-ownership by pooling resources with family or friends to purchase and share a second home, either in an LLC or a less formal arrangement. It may be practical and costeffective, but it can also be a challenge to set up, a hassle to manage, and difficult to resolve disputes when personal relationships are at stake. That’s where Pacaso steps in. Pacaso sets up an LLC for a home, coordinates buyers, and takes care of the ongoing demands of homeownership, like paying the bills and maintaining the lawn. Pacaso provides the service, but the co-owners own 100% of the property. And ownership is the key concept — Pacaso serves owners only, who bring an “owner” mindset rather than a “vacation” mindset to the use and care of the home. Shortterm rentals are prohibited. A Midwest native, Allison first visited Napa during business trips to the Bay Area, and he was immediately hooked. The scenery, community — and of course the wine — kept drawing him back. “From the moment my wife and I stepped foot here, we dreamed of owning a home in the Valley. We are now fortunate to call this beautiful place home.” Allison believes Pacaso’s co-ownership model can foster community connections and provide a home away from home where owners know their neighbors, engage in local events and support area businesses, just like those who live there full-time. He also sees the service as a win-win for the broader housing market. “Many second homes sit empty most of the year, which is painful to see when local affordable and workforce housing shortages are so acute.” Allison thinks Pacaso can help reduce competition for mid-range and affordable properties by giving second-home buyers a better option. Rather than purchasing a moderately priced whole home, Pacaso owners can purchase ⅛ of a higher-end home for the same price (and less hassle). And, with owners utilizing their property yearround, local businesses win too. “We’re very intentional about working with local property managers, supporting local businesses, and promoting those businesses to the owners,” Allison said.

W W W. PAC A S O. C O M California DRE #02108939

SUMMER 2021

NVL artist spotlight

TIM HOWE

Seeing Napa Valley Through the Artist’s Eye  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

Summer's Light

Tim Howe is an artist, and his muse is Napa Valley: its landscapes, light, shadows, hues, trees, hills, and rolling vineyards. For those who drink in the outstanding beauty of Northern California’s premier wine region on a daily basis, that may sound trite. In truth, it’s anything but for this artist. 84

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ecause Howe’s life story begins in a place where awesome majesty abounds, it’s an informed declaration as well as an emotional one that brings him to call Napa home. As a New Zealand native, he grew up surrounded by panoramic vistas, verdant valleys, and spectacular settings. He has also traveled the world with a keen eye trained on Mother Nature’s bold and soft landscapes. After graduating from art and design school in Wellington, Howe moved stateside and went into the commercial side of art, creating a design studio/advertising agency where he designed logos and brand packaging. Switching it up, Howe sold his business to spend a year traveling, painting, and establishing a fine art studio in Barcelona that he still maintains. Ultimately, Howe happily settled in Napa Valley for its unlimited capability to impress his artistic soul. Howe brings inspiration from the valley onto the canvas, borrowed from the

changing landscapes where the vines and trees tell their own life cycle story. By incorporating dramatic use of brush and palette knife with a contemporary flair combined with impressionist overtones, he plays upon positive and negative space, important colors and textures.

Offering tailored Interior Design services throughout Wine Country and beyond.

“ Creativity takes courage.” - Henri Matisse

Distant Light

Howe’s oil paintings speak to blues in motion, golden moments, brilliant reflections, autumn vibrancy, harmony, exuberance, vineyards in motion. Beyond the vineyards, some of Howe’s favorite subjects are aspen trees, reflections on water, bursts of autumn, ephemeral clouds, and skies. His latest series, “Deconstruction of the Landscape,” is influenced by his graphic design background, interpreted in oil on canvas using both palette knife and brush. The shapes and colors of a landscape are graphically reconstructed to create a new image, yet not literal. “I see this as a more contemporary way of painting,” said Howe. “I find myself utilizing nature’s shapes and images and interpreting them in a bolder way for maximum effect.” Tim Howe’s extensive collection of paintings can be seen at his studio, on the website, in galleries nationwide, wineries, on television shows, movie sets, wine bottles, and in the homes of collectors, earning him the nickname, “The Artist of Napa.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Valley Vista

Tim Howe Studios 707-260-9500 timhowestudios.com

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SUMMER 2021

NVL shop local spotlight

LET’S GET DRESSED! Tay & Grace Dictates the Napa Style  BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS BY BLAINE OLGUIN

he daily donning of yoga wear and workout gear is wearing thin for former fashionistas who customarily don the latest styles and trends. But after more than a year of nesting and sheltering, current looks are in question. What is one to wear now? What is ‘in’? These queries are easily answered with a visit to Downtown Napa’s Tay & Grace boutique, where proprietor Kris Ruffino and her daughter Taylor Silleman have curated a clothing collection featuring the hottest brands and up-to-the-minute items that capture the best of the Napa Valley lifestyle. A Napa Valley native whose business ethic was honed early via work within her family’s beloved restaurant Ruffino’s, Kris opened her boutique nearly 20 years ago and has been styling both locals and visitors since. With her lifelong interest in fashion, few are better equipped to dictate the Napa look. Think chic denim, soft knits, 86

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and timeless cashmere when temperatures drop and harvest begins, flowy dresses, and effortless blouses for wine tasting and picnicking during the peak of summer. Within a warm and intimate setting, Kris and Taylor, along with their inspired crew of sales associates help customers find that perfect piece. They can help to update an entire wardrobe with items from both wellknown and cult brands such as Farm Rio, Velvet, 360 Cashmere, Rails, GRLFRND Denim, Nation, Cleobella, Karina Grimaldi, n:Philanthropy, Lacausa, Rachel Pally, and Corey Lynn Calter. Accessories from both local and national designers, including Bubo Leather Handbags, Pennyroyal Designs, and Miranda Frye Jewelry, help complete a final look. The Ruffino/Silleman mother-daughter duo work in tandem to provide the best shopping experience for their customers, including offering after-hours shopping

appointments and private shopping parties. While Ruffino well knows her customer’s tastes, Silleman keeps up with the latest trends, introducing the store’s fans to new brands, designers, and fresh styles. Silleman, a trained architect, also helped design the boutique’s new First Street location. “I love shopping at Tay & Grace,” said longtime customer Caroline Wiegardt. “Kris and Taylor’s approach to fashion is so refreshing. They offer an incredible curated collection that allows you to stand out in the crowd, whether it’s fun party dresses, chic jewelry, or gorgeous day wear. The store has an inviting aesthetic of contemporary warmth and comfort. After shopping at Tay & Grace, you’ll be seen in styles that no one else is wearing.” FOR MORE INFORMATION

tayandgrace.com

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SUMMER 2021

Photo by Chris Dobey

etana

NVL shop local spotlight

Be Bubbly:  BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

Because There’s No Better Place to Be Photos courtesy of Be Bubbly

“There’s no place I’d rather be,” said Erin Riley, proprietor of Be Bubbly Napa, “and thank goodness, we’re still standing.” Raise a flute to welcome Napa’s first and only dedicated Champagne and sparkling wine lounge, right in the heart of historic downtown Napa.

e Bubbly Napa was planning to cut the ribbon and host a grand opening when, unfortunately, 2020 delivered an unexpected global pandemic. Instead, a fun block party on Second Street is planned as a “Grand Opening 2.0” in August 2021. How did Be Bubbly Napa come to be? Surprisingly, Napa Valley’s glorious wine country had been lacking a destination for relaxing and enjoying what some consider the best wine of all, the sparkling kind. “I was looking for a certain type of place where I could hang out,” said founder Erin Riley, Chief Bubblehead. “And I soon realized that my personal brand of European inspiration fused with genuine Southern hospitality was a niche that hadn’t yet been filled. The three foundational pillars of my vision are simple: global bubbles, local bites, and great service.” The path from her hometown of Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Napa was not a straight

one (but it was a fabulous one nonetheless). Business and pleasure took Riley on the road around the U.S. and abroad, providing plenty of opportunities to scout out favorite labels, refining a love for Champagne and sparkling wine along the way. It was a taste developed early. “Since my parents were fine dining restaurateurs, by the age of 14, I considered caviar and champagne served at home to be ‘de rigueur.’” Back in Arkansas, Riley’s parents, Judy and Nick, were known as consummate hosts. Attention to menu selection, fine wines, and their guests delivered an exceptional experience, word of which traveled far and wide. That special touch was passed on as their daughter builds the beta model for a future franchise of Be Bubbly hospitality. Is there a pandemic silver lining? Yes, indeed. It’s a local one. Be Bubbly crowdfunded a membership with benefits, met a target of 150, and added another 75

before moving to a waiting list. Because the Downtown Napa Association and the local community “had our backs throughout 2020 and beyond, the mural on our wall and art in our booths is really a tribute to them,” said Riley. The core message, “Everyone Is Welcome,” comes through loud and clear in three framed art pieces—Unity, Love, and Bliss—inside curtained booths. There’s also a private room for up to 18 and outdoor parklets with another 12 seats. The local story continues with an array of tasty bites from selected partners: Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam cheese, Tarla hummus, Chef Thomas Keller’s Regiis Ova caviar, and on Saturdays, sliders from Cochon Volant in Sonoma. Drop-in for a glass and expect to be asked: “Are you having fun?” And, “Are we taking great care of you?” because Be Bubbly wants every guest to feel that there’s no place they’d rather be.

FOR MORE INFORMATION 1407 Second Street, Napa, CA 94559 // 707-637-4532 // BeBubblyNapa.com 88

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F NN L L O VV E E FA ALLLL I I O W II TT HH AA W N O O KK NEEW W LL O O

Fresh style is just around thethe corner! Fresh style is just around corner! Shop eyewear, designer sunglasses, Shopquality quality eyewear, designer sunglasses, blue lenses, and contacts in the heart of of bluelight light lenses, and contacts in the heart Downtown Napa. Downtown Napa. VISIT: 770 Main St.St.Napa VISIT: 770 Main Napa EMAIL: esther@zuniga-optical.com EMAIL: esther@zuniga-optical.com CALL: 707-699-1507 CALL: 707-699-1507 Walk InsIns Welcome Walk Welcome

Join trunk shows, bubbles, Join usus forfor trunk shows, bubbles, and and otherother fun surprises during month of June fun surprises during the the month of June as as celebrate year in business. wewe celebrate ourour firstfirst year in business.

SUMMER 2021

NVL health & wellness Executive Director Julia Orr and Harry

Robert and Audrey Watts escaped the Paradise Fires but lost everything. Molly’s Angels helped them get to their medical appointments when they resettled in Yountville.

Molly’s Angels  BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS BY SALLY SEYMOUR

hat began as a simple act of kindness decades ago has morphed into a societal force for good, named for the founder who started it all, Marlene (Molly) Banz. Molly’s Angels serves the greater Napa community, providing a network and safety net upon which many vulnerable citizens have come to rely. Its mission: to provide transportation, support services, and advocacy to ensure independent living for seniors. “We are hands-on,” said Molly’s Angels executive director Julia Orr. “We make an impact.” Programming includes transportation services, Hello, Molly! Care Calls weekly assurance phone check-in, emergency grocery delivery services, and the Senior Moments Radio Show on KVON, 1440AM, and 96.9FM. Each thrives due to dedicated volunteers who provide rides to appointments, make weekly conversational phone calls, and deliver groceries. “We fill a huge gap and provide a literal lifeline,” said Orr, who recalled a recent instance when a Care Calls volunteer was unable to reach her weekly phone friend. Molly’s Angels alerted emergency services, who checked on the client and found her in need of medical assistance. 90

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“We are hands-on,” said Molly’s Angels executive director Julia Orr. “We make an impact.” “Many of our senior clients are isolated, without family nearby. There is an amazing need for our help. Our clients and volunteer drivers form a relationship of trust, one that is familial.” Originally from England, Molly Banz moved to Napa in 1965, opening Molly’s Fish & Chips. The origin of Molly’s Angels is traced to her passing of a pickle jar to raise funds for a local family who lost their home in a fire. After the success of this ‘dollar drive,’ Banz’s friends encouraged her to start a nonprofit, which she did in 1999. Molly passed away on March 7, 2013, yet her legacy of devotion to disadvantaged seniors and other victims of tragedy is illustrated with the success of Molly’s Angels. “She really did make a difference in this community,” said Orr, also originally from England. A former entertainment industry

executive with the Walt Disney Company, Orr joined the organization two years ago with the professional goal of defining, expanding, and improving Molly’s Angels programming and the personal goal to give back to her community. “Our volunteers tell us that they get as much out of helping as our clients get out of the assistance we provide.” Kevin Eason began volunteering with Molly’s Angels six years ago, driving seniors to various medical appointments. Now, he also delivers groceries and participates in the Care Calls program. “I thought that I might one day need these services, and I am paying it forward,” said Eason. Volunteering is very rewarding; I try to do as much as I can to help our seniors. I've gotten to know many of our clients personally and miss them if I don't see them for a while. That is why I do this.” Said Molly’s Angels client Teresa Cahill, “I have been without a car for some time; it was totaled in an accident. But being 81 and with bi-lateral hip replacements, I had depended on my car for all my needs. Molly’s Angels helped me by arranging transportation so I could receive my second vaccine, and I am so very thankful.” FOR MORE INFORMATION mollysangels.com

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

NVL money & wealth

Will Your Social Security Benefits Be Taxed?

Annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Withdrawals may be subject to surrender charges, may be taxable and, if made prior to age 59½, may also be subject to a 10% additional tax. All annuity contract and rider guarantees, or annuity payout rates, are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. They are not backed by Merrill or its affiliates, nor do Merrill or its affiliates make any representations or guarantees regarding the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. This material should be regarded as general information about Social Security considerations and is not intended to provide specific Social Security advice. If you have questions regarding your particular situation, please contact your legal or tax advisor. 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 companies that are affiliates of 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. Investment, insurance and annuity products: Are Not FDIC Insured

Are Not Bank Guaranteed

May Lose Value

Are Not Deposits

Are Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency

Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity

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Insurance and annuity products are offered through Merrill Lynch Life Agency Inc., a licensed insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. © 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP3324505 | WP-02-21-0594 | 472503PM-0420 | 02/2021

For many people, the answer is yes — but in this article, Bank of America Corporation offers some strategies that could help you minimize the hit on your retirement income.

any investors forget one thing about retirement: As much as 85% of your Social Security income could be subject to federal — and possibly state — income taxes. “That can be a real shock when people begin collecting benefits,” says Ben Storey, director of Retirement Thought Leadership money sense at Bank of America.

a big one-time event, like the If you retire early and your Equivalent Railroad Retirement sale of a business, structure it spouse does not, their earned Benefits,” available at www.irs. as an installment sale to be paid income will not be factored into gov, can help you compute your off over several years instead the earnings limit. When you tax liability. Then, see whether of an all-cash transaction. This reach your full retirement age, your state taxes benefits. You can help evenly distribute your Social Security will recalculate might not be able to avoid tax overall income and keep you in your benefit amount if you were liability, but you can learn what a lower tax bracket. negatively impacted by the to expect and plan accordingly. As always, your financial advisor A longer-term strategy for earnings limit. drawing from your qualified reIf you file your tax return can work with your tax profestirement accounts is to convert jointly, your spouse’s earnings sional to find solutions. a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, will be included when calculatbecause distributions drawn in ing your combined income for Merrill, its affiliates and finanHOW TAXES ARE CALCULATED retirement from a Roth IRA will purposes of determining the cial advisors do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. Social Security benefit taxes not be included in your taxable taxation of your benefits.1 sense —money and how to say no — if family members turn to you for financial support. You should consult your legal are based on your “combined” income calculations. But take and/or tax advisors before FOREWARNED IS income — your modified adjusted caution, as any pre-tax amount making any financial decisions. FOREARMED you convert will be counted as gross income for the yearthe and half y a position to provide it. Yet “Finances in develop a basic philosophy that applies to Worksheets inhelped IRS Publication income in the year of Explain the conRetirement” survey Security found that few respondents of your Social income. everyone. that this philosophy 1 Source: https://www.ssa.gov/ 915,and“Social and version and your taxedfamily accordingly. had Abudgeted toyour be able to help family members build its wealth that any Security loan or portion of Social Security planners/retire/whileworking.html. You can also gift convert an investfinancially, an average decisions will be made based on your core benefitsdespite will begiving taxable income of $6,500 ment taxable a annually family.income “We create budgets for suchthat earns values, suchincome, as a strong work ethic, pride and abovetocertain thresholds. bond portfolio, pnt client things travel orcommunication, shopping, so whyMerrill not such for as a taxable experience and self-sufficiency. If you’re dreading the prospect Forasexample, in 2020 a married into a deferred family giving?” asks Bill Hunter, Retirement of annuity. refusing a request, prepare your reasons couple in retirement filing jointly Client Experience, beforehand so that you can explain them with combinedDirector, incomeStrategy greater& Solutions tionally,atapproximately Start saving for retirement and take LIMITS Bank of America. unemotionally. When you can’t afford to give, KNOW THE EARNINGS than $32,000, and up• to $44,000, outline the reasons ults with a retirement advantage of having longevity on could find that 50% of their If you start taking your benefits for your decision. Hunter advises that you determine how much e benefit payments are considered before full retirement age — 66 you an canearly commit to this purpose without ady made your side. Contribute to an employerWhen a family business is involved, notes taxable income. for most baby boomers — the disrupting your retirement planning and current Schmieder, it’s possible that your relatives don’t imarily to cover debt. sponsored savings plan such as a Social Administration living needs. When you have that— figure, 401(k) at least at aSecurity levelunderstand that meetsthe company’s financial limitations. BUILD A LONG-TERM nderstandably concerned be consider your other priorities. Are there any issues a cap “Not on your earnings. everyone may be aware, for instance, that any company match. STRATEGY changes in order have an obligation to reinvest 2020, thecompany cap is owners $18,240, ildren’slifestyle wellbeing and you may need to make In BETTER ASSESSMENT. BETTER CARE PLAN. Tax giving planning experts keep to family tough their profits into their businesses to maintain and Merrill for every $2 you earn over pportingtothem financially. •during Talksuggest to yourtimes? local advisor, who reducing yourbefore combined income. Most important, you give, be surethat to set growth,” he says. Use this opportunity to explain limit,together the SSA adeducts $1 e amount spent by can assist with putting BETTER OUTCOME. “When you plan fund for retirement,” s aside an emergency for yourself to from help your benefits. that the company’s Once you profits aren’t a ready source eir earlyensure adult children iswill have to help pursue your goals. says Vinay a shareholder that youNavani, aplan comfortable cushion for gifts loans. reach the year thatoryou will ver $500 billion annually.2 with WilkinGuttenplan, an ac- turn full retirement in retirement. age, the Helpers LIFE Profile combines ur As you consider each request,Senior it’s always For more information, contact counting and consulting firm in earned income cap goes up; compassionate care with technology to create en’t entirely 3. Setbleak, firm guidelines saying yes. Decide in important to remember that gifts or loans to as the for Merrill Lynch Financial East under Brunswick, N.J., “you needyou would that limit Advisor is family $48,600 for 2020. the most comprehensive in-home care plan advance what circumstances members will have a direct impact on rly adults (72 percent) think in terms multiyear Eric F. Gonzales the $3your Forinevery you retirement go over, $1planning. is feelto comfortable giving of or lending money. There might be Our an proven programs and trained available. d benefit financial projections.” If you anticipate deducted. unwritten fifth rule, says Hunter: Napa, “If from you’re going to make a gift ofCA, theoffice money, “Beware ofmake it easier for families to give caregivers e is some advice to early think about using the occasion as a teaching being overly generous, or you their could loved end up ones the assistance they need. at 707.254.4606 their pursuit of financial moment,” suggests Hunter. Without sounding needing financial help yourself.” or eric_gonzales@ml.com. preachy or judgmental, try to explain to your : relative how you’ve put yourself in a position to tick to provide a budget. thisTrack assistance. Have you kept your debt under control, your expenses, and for instance, or lived within your g means or avoided Contact us today to learn more: s where you can make high-interest credit cards? “For young adults in the family, this could be a 707.200.6665 | SeniorHelpers.com/napa to fund your goals. FOR MORE INFORMATION valuable lesson,” he says.1 Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. HCO #284700002 Contact Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor d, “How Does Student Debt Affect Early Career All rights reserved. Senior Helpers locations are independently owned and operated. ur debt.“IfPay youhigh-interest, expect toGonzales be paid back, create a loan Eric F. in the Napa, CA office at ©2020 SH Franchising, LLC. Retirement Saving?” 2018. recommends2orAge Joe C. Schmieder, uctible document,” debt first 707-254-4606 (e.g., eric_gonzales@ml.com. Wave/Merrill Lynch. “The Financial Journey of principal Family Joy, Business and then otherconsultant non-tax of theParenting: Complexity and Sacrifice,” 2018. For more information, contact Consulting Group. This may include details on SUMMER 2021 93 ebt (e.g., an auto loan). how frequently repayments will be made and Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor

re You the “Family Bank”?

it of Happiness: Financial Independence

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

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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 fromaioli 3 toand 7Valley pm). Weekend nightshours the bar menu, coupled with craft beers, spirits and Napa wines. Happier grilled prawns, fresh crab,inmicro greens, goatdrink cheese, chipotle Serrano salsa. area turns electric with entertainment including livelarge performances and dancing to on DJs Monday-Friday 2pm-6pm. Family and rotisserie dog friendly, parties welcome inside or 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 Street,Napa Napa,CA CA94559 94559 | 707-224-6664 | www.camomi.com 1141 First First Street (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

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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 is Award 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 by a network of local farmers walls aresupply covered photosofofthe happy (you knowOur who you are somebody and purveyors who us with some finestcustomers foods in the world. wine you make the wall.) do havefood pictures of celebrities including owners pairings are when considered by many to be They the ultimate and wine experience. 1141 Napa CA 94559 NormFirst andStreet Christy Sawicki. (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/ The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559 1141 First Street Napa CA 94559 707-257-5157 | Trancas www.latoque.com (707) 257-4992 | www.camomienoteca.com/ 999 Street, Napa, CA 94558 707-258-9990 | trancassteakhouse.com

1480 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 707-255-5599 | www.tarlagrill.com

MEXICAN / TEX-MEX JAPENESE CUISINE C CASA - We offer a fresh approach to tacos and much more. Fresh, made-to- order EIKO’S - Eiko’s delivers imaginative twists on traditional Japanese cuisine. Our vision white corn tortillas topped with ingredients like seasoned buffalo, rotisserie lamb, for the menu combines modern and authentic traditional Japanese cuisine including grilled prawns, fresh crab, micro greens, goat cheese, chipotle aioli and Serrano salsa. seasonal, fresh sustainable fish and ingredients delivered daily from our local markets And, we offer interesting small plates and salads, rotisserie meats and poultry and and purveyors. Inwith addition to traditional seasonal entrees a C CASA twist. raw fish preparation, our chefs creates a selection of innovative dishes inspired by our local culture and taste profiles featuring Napa as influence and inspiration. 610 1st St #B, Napa, CA 94559 / Oxbow Market 1385 Napa Town Center, Napa, CA 94559 | www.myccasa.com 707-226-7700 707-501-4444 | www.eikosnapa.com

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AMERICAN GRILL & BAR AMERICAN CUISINE ITALIAN AMERICAN GRILL & BAR DOWNTOWN JOES - An American style grill united with quality and freshness. Our NAPA isGENERAL 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 source grub. our ingredients. local foodand purveyors and locally 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 Main Street St, Napa, CA 94559

Reserve online| www.downtownjoes.com at NapaGeneralStore.com or by calling 707-259-0762 707-258-2337

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MEDITERRANEAN AMERICAN EATERY SMALL WORLD - A world of flavor awaits at Small World Restaurant, where thebreakTHE GRILL AT SILVERADO, is a one-of-a-kind Napa Valley restaurant, serving menu features the and vibrant of the Mediterranean and theWine Middle East. Falafel, fast, lunch, dinner bar cuisine appetizers. The restaurant features Country Cuisine, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Schwarma, Pita Sandwiches, Garden Salads,Napa, and the emphasizing fresh and sustainable products. Just minutes fromFresh downtown Fresh-Made Baklava. Grill overlooks one of the most beautiful golf courses on earth and offers a respite from the daily routine for everyone who visits. 928 Coombs Street (Downtown Napa), Napa, CA 94559 1600 Atlas Peak|Rd, Napa, CA 94558 | 707-257-5400 | www.silveradoresort.com 707-224-7743 SmallWorldRestaurant.com

AMERICAN CUISINE AMERICAN CUISINE NAPKINS - An American cuisine restaurant with an exciting scene for locals and travelers who happen upon them.Weekend brunch (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

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Napa Valley Life Magazine - Summer 2021 Issue

Articles inside

Second Annual Philanthropy Issue

ONEHOPE WINE

WINE COUNTRY DAY PRESCHOOL

Napa Tracy Style:

Tim Howe

Tay & Grace

Be Bubbly

Molly's Angels

New West KnifeWorks

Mendocino: Majestic Redwoods and Pinot Magic

Cherish Market Garden & Orchard

Cooking with Karen Crouse

Napa Valley's Best Vegetarian and Vegan

Fantesca Estate & Winery

Pride Mountain Vineyards

Keenan Winery

Tres Sabores

Sherwin Family Vineyards

Sullivan Rutherford Estate

Safari West: A Taste of Africa in Wine Country

Inside Track

Enjoy Napa Valley Exploring Napa's History on the Napa River

Miner Family Winery

Calendar of Events

Piña Napa Valley

A Taste of History