Napa Valley Life Magazine – Summer 2024

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“Crafting

Priyanka French, Signorello Estate

Celebrating PHILANTHROPY

Summer in Napa Valley is a time of bountiful sunshine, lush vineyards, and unparalleled beauty. As the temperatures rise, the valley comes alive with outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and a myriad of opportunities to enjoy premier wines and award-winning menus—al fresco. It’s also the time of year we dedicate space in our publication to recognize many of Napa’s local people, organizations, and causes committed to helping make life better for those less fortunate. Now in our fifth year, the Philanthropy feature calls attention to the generosity of many who make life better for those less fortunate. We hope you will join us in our appreciation of those on our list and perhaps be inspired to do something extra to make life better for someone in need.

Our cover story featuring Redwood Credit Union (RCU) is a prime example of a local Napa organization focused on the community. As a financial institution focused on service, not profit, RCU demonstrates what “people helping people” is all about. Under the leadership of President and CEO Brett Martinez, RCU’s philanthropic programs are integral to the company’s DNA, fostering a sense of pride and belonging and enhancing the unique culture where they work and in the communities in which they live.

Summer in Napa Valley expands opportunities for both visitors and locals regarding things to do. In this issue, we take a walk through the local neighborhood, Alta Heights, a coveted stretch of community nestled between the eastern border of the City of Napa and Coombsville. Though primarily regarded as a residential neighborhood perched on the slopes overlooking downtown Napa, it also contains a vibrant commercial district. With beautiful parks, historic homes, and an eclectic array of attractions, it’s worth checking out on a weekend afternoon.

Summer also means school is out, and although Napa is best known for its over-21 entertainment, it’s also a fun place for families to explore. Whether taking a safari, watching a geyser erupt, camping, hiking, biking, skateboarding, or paddle boating on the Napa River, there are numerous options—indoors and out—to keep everyone entertained.

Don’t miss our varietal series about the beautiful wines produced in the Mt. Veeder AVA. Known for its steep slopes and rugged terrain, it has the ideal growing conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc, distinguishing them greatly from the wines produced on the valley floor.

Whatever your fancy, summer in Napa is ripe for the taking. There is no better time to get out and explore!

Happy Summer

Laura Larson Editor

Photo by Lowell Downey

Handcrafted, intensely rich, limited production Howell Mountain wines.

Featuring 198 Spacious Two-Room Suites, 6-Luxury Suites, and 1-Presidential Suite, the Embassy Suites Napa Valley is one of Wine Country’s favorite places to stay. The all-suite property offers even the most discerning guests the spacious accommodations and amenities required to ensure a memorable stay. Surrounded by seven beautiful acres of landscaped grounds and within walking distance of Downtown Napa, guests are just a stroll away from over 35 wine tasting rooms, 80 downtown eateries, 15 galleries, 20 spas and wellness retreats, plus over 60 boutique and specialty shops.

Bedrooms with One-King or Two Double Sweet Dreams Beds by Serta

Two Flat Screen LG LCD Televisions • Microwave • Mini-Refrigerator • Wet Bar Desk & Workstation • Keurig Coffee Maker • Pull Out Couch Bed • On-site Gym

Welcoming Staff • Evening Beverage Receptions • Weekly Live Music

On-site Cuisine at Grille 29 • Various Event Space Options

Event or Meeting Inquiries: 707-320-9510 Hotel Reservations: 707-253-9540

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Derek Wright

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Candi Thomas

EDITOR

Laura Larson laura.larson@napavalleylife.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Erin Hayden Seal

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Jackie Cyr

jackie.cyr@webmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING SALES info@napavalleylife.com

EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT/PARTNER

Kevin Evans

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Fran Miller

Layne Randolph

Jillian Dara

Chris Andrews

Laurie Jo Miller Farr

Melissa Vogt

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Art & Clarity – Lowell Downey

Bob McClenahan

ABOUT THE COVER

The Redwood Credit Union Executive Team (L-R) Ron Felder, EVP/Chief Financial Officer, Mishel Kaufman, EVP/Chief Operating Officer, Brett Martinez, President/CEO, Tony Hildesheim, EVP/Chief Administrative Officer, Michelle Anderson, EVP/Chief Lending Officer

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Napa Valley Life Magazine is published six times a year.

We have four quarterly publications and two annual publications. Copyright 2024 by Napa Valley Life Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Subscriptions are available for $12/year by visiting napavalleylife.com and clicking on subscriptions at the top. 1370 Trancas Street #770, Napa, CA 94558

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NV Scene

What’s Been Happening Around Town

SONGWRITERS IN PARADISE (SIP) NAPA

This year’s SIP NAPA proved to be the perfect blend of world-class music, wine, food, and spectacular weather. The exclusive fourday event in April offered attendees an intimate venue of music and storytelling from accomplished singers and songwriters at a handful of Napa’s premier winery venues, such as Silver Oak Cellars, Alpha Omega Winery, Brasswood Cellars, and Charles Krug. Featured songwriters included David Ryan Harris, Django Walker, Patrick Davis, Eric Paslay, Lauren Jenkins, Tim Nichols, to name just a few. // www.songwritersinparadise.com

Songwriters(L-R) James Otto, David Ryan Harris at Brasswood // Photo by Everett Zurow

Songwriters (L-R) Channing Wilson, Patrick Davis, Levi Lowrey at Charles Krug // Photo by Everett Zurow

Songwriter Eric Paslay and others (Patrick Davis, Lauren Jenkins, Django Walker, Tim Nichols) perform for attendees on the porch of Harvest Inn unofficial after party

Photo by Everett Zurow

Songwriters(L-R) Patrick Davis, Levi Lowrey, Lauren Jenkins, Tim Nichols, David Ryan Harris, James Otto, Marc Broussard, Kristian Bush, Eric Paslay at Silver Oak // Photo by Everett Zurow

Songwriters(L-R) Django Walker, Lauren Jenkins, Eric Paslay // Photo by Everett Zurow

Songwriters(L-R) Marc Broussard, Tim Nichols // Photo by Everett Zurow

STAGS LEAP VINEYARD TO VINTNER WEEKEND

The Stags Leap District Winegrowers Premier Vineyard to Vintner weekend returned on April 26-28, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the owners and winemakers of the Stags Leap District with backstage access to 15 renowned wineries, exceptional vineyards, famed Cabernet Sauvignons, and breathtaking scenery. A celebration of the people and wines of the area, the annual event included intimate vintner-hosted dinners, vineyard walks and seminars, and a wide range of tastings from coveted library wines to new releases, including the exclusive chance to taste a barrel sample of the 2022 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon: A Collaboration. // www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V

Saturday Vintner Luncheon

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Dinner at Silverado Vineyards

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Dinner at Baldacci Vineyards

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Dinner at Stags Leap Wine Cellars // Photo by Jessica Fix

Digging Deeper at Stags Leap Wine Cellars

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Digging Deeper Seminar at Cliff Lede

Photo by Jessica Fix

Dinner at Baldacci Vineyards

Photo by BobMcClenahan

Dinner at Stags Leap Wine Cellars

Photo by Jessica Fix

APPELLATION ST. HELENA: bASH

# PHOTOS BY TIM CARL, NAPA VALLEY FEATURES

Appellation St. Helena (ASH) hosted its annual food and wine pairing extravaganza, bASH, on March 23, drawing a sold-out crowd of 300 attendees. Held at The Culinary Institute of America Greystone, this year marked the event’s 13th year, showcasing the talents of both emerging culinary students and seasoned professionals alongside the wineries of St. Helena. The “Fan Favorite” awards were clinched by Revana Estate with culinary students Munkhbaatar Gantulga, Chloe Wakayama, and John Valadez, Chase Cellars with culinary students Amina Rateb and Noga Ramon, and Young Inglewood with culinary students Sarah Petersen, Clay Gerdin and Alex Bleakley, claiming first, second, and third place. In the “Professional Favorites” category, culinary students Keaton MacKenzie, Kaihan Qazen, and Lloyd Boatman, paired with CourAvant Winery took first place, followed by Buena Vista Winery with culinary students Krish Mahendra Todekar, Juan Montano and Ciro Medina-Mendoza, and Pellet Estate with culinary students Katherine Kowal and Ashton Altares. // www.appellationsthelena.com

INSPIRE NAPA VALLEY

The fifth annual Inspire Napa Valley event took place May 3 through May 5, raising over $1.2 million to help those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. Founded by wine industry tastemaker Kerrin Laz, the event has established itself as a staple in the Napa Valley community, bringing together wine enthusiasts and industry leaders to support national funding for Alzheimer’s disease research and care for families affected by the disease in Northern California. Notable attendees and participants included Vinous founder Antonio Galloni, Food & Wine Editor Ray Isle, and Dr. Maria Carrillo, chief science officer at the Alzheimer’s Association. This year’s live auction and paddle raise featured top-selling auction lots with coveted Napa Valley producers, including “The Unicorn Napa Valley Visit” and a once-in-a-lifetime record-breaking lot, “6 Perfect Nights for 4 Couples in Piedmont, Italy.” // www.inspirenapavalley.org

VIP Dinner at Mending Wall

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Entertainment Friday VIP Dinner

Photo by Bob McClenahan

L-R: Charles Antin, Kerrin Laz, Artie Johnson, Nikita Touquette, Francoise Peschon, Mary Maher, Josh Phelps, Juan Mercado, Benoit Touquette // Photo by Lowell Downey

L-R: Donna Walker, Mark Pulido, Kerrin Laz, Frank Dotzler, Sarah Skeen

Photo by Bob McClenahan

Sean Knight, Bettina Bryant, Kerrin Laz, Brad Grimes // Photo by Bob McClenahan

Photo by Lowell Downey

Photo by Lowell Downey

Photo by Lowell Downey

(L-R) Ubaldo Vela, Amanda McCrossin, Kerrin Laz, Laura Koffer, Jillian Riley, Eduardo Dingler

Photo by Bob McClenahan

LIVE IN THE VINEYARD GOES COUNTRY (LITVGC)

# PHOTOS BY BOB M c CLENAHAN ( unless otherwise noted)

Live In The Vineyard Goes Country (LITVGC), presented by Visit Napa Valley, hosted its highly anticipated country-music-filled weekend from April 23-26. The 3-day event showcased an array of chart-topping artists and songwriters, including Scotty McCreery, Rodney Atkins, Sara Evans, Drew Baldridge, Laura Bryna, Anderson Daniels, Wesley Dean, The Dryes, ERNEST, Larry Fleet, Elliot Greer, Kelsey Hart, Scotty Hasting, Levi Hummon, LOCASH, Brooke Moriber, MacKenzie Porter, Charly Reynolds, Lily Rose, Runaway June, plus many others. The main events were hosted at Peju Winery, Raymond Vineyards, Uptown Theater, Carneros Resort and Spa, and other VIP events were hosted at select wineries across the valley. // www.liveinthevineyard.com

Brittney Spencer performs during the Send-Off Brunch at Carneros Resort

Photo by Alec Savig, JETBLACK

Tori Spelling, Sara Evans, and Cheryl Burke

Napa Mayor Scott Sedgley; District 3 Senator Bill Dodd and Visit Napa Valley President and CEO Linsey Gallagher at the Uptown Theater

Renowned singer Sara Evans headlines the Main Stage event at Uptown Theatre

Photo by Will Bucqouy, JETBLACK

Scotty McCreery performs at Raymond Vineyards

Larry Fleet performs at Raymond Vineyards

Julia Cole performs at the Hilltop at Carneros Inn and Spa

NV Calendar

Upcoming Parties, Concerts, Celebrations and Events

Event dates subject to change. Please check event websites for current schedules.

June 21–22

WINEAPAWLOOZA

Enjoy a weekend celebrating animals, wine, and music at Jameson Humane’s 11th Annual WineaPAWlooza. Bid on the ultimate lifestyle and luxury auction lots, sip incredible boutique wines, and support Jameson Humane’s life-saving work. The event kicks off Friday at 6 pm with a curated wine tasting, a thrilling live auction, and a delicious dinner under the Napa skies at Burgess Cellars. The weekend culminates on Saturday at the Grand Tasting at Raymond Vineyards, featuring the glitterati of over 55 Napa and Sonoma vintners showcasing their wines and the rockin’ sounds of local Napa band Wristrocket. // www.jamesonanimalrescueranch.org/ 2024-wineapawlooza

June 21–23

COOKBOOK FEST

Hosted in downtown Napa at the whimsical Feast it Forward, Cookbook Fest is a groundbreaking book festival that merges the worlds of literature and gastronomy, bringing together renowned cookbook authors, celebrated podcasts, and enthusiastic

food lovers. The three-day event includes unique culinary demos, author book signings, live music, and parties such as the Global Fire Party, where cookbook authors will enter into a live-fire culinary theater to offer grilled, barbecued, smoked, and charred dishes from around the world, and Chef Tyler Florence’s Wine Country edition of a Masters of Fire barbecue competition. Don’t miss this part book, part food & wine, and part music festival, where every recipe, every story, and every ingredient takes center stage. // www.cookbookfest.com

June 27–29

VIDA OLE

OLE Health’s annual fundraising event will be hosted at a few of Napa Valley’s most renowned vintners, culinary programs, and estate wineries while supporting healthcare for vulnerable Napa County families and workers. The weekend will culminate at Sullivan Rutherford Estate, where exquisite food, wine, spirits, and gracious hospitality will meet the spirited excitement of their one-of-a-kind live auction consisting of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, rare wines, luxury getaways, and much more.

Vintner dinners will also be hosted at Dana Estates, Darioush, and Stony Hill. All funds raised will support community health services in Napa County. // www.olehealth.org/auction

July 6–21

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

Back for its 18th season, Festival Napa Valley returns to Napa Valley, bringing fantastic performances hosted in wine country settings, award-winning food and wine—and Napa Valley hospitality. The event is designed to uplift and inspire, attracting artists and audiences worldwide. Headlined by Lionel Ritchie, who will perform at the Arts for All Gala, more than 60 concerts and events will be hosted at iconic venues. // www.festivalnapavalley.org

July 13

TASTE OF NAPA AT THE MERITAGE RESORT

Savor exceptional food, wine, and music at Taste of Napa—the signature event celebrating the bounties of Napa Valley and best-inclass wines from around the globe. Festivities take place on the central piazza of The

Taste of Napa // Photo courtesy of Festival Napa Valley

Cookbook Fest // Photo courtesy of Feast it Forward

Meritage Resort. Nestled among acres of sun-soaked vineyards, The Meritage Resort’s relaxed elegance reflects Napa Valley hospitality at its finest. Taste of Napa guests can sample fare from over 70 wineries, breweries, craft beverages, restaurants, and culinary artisans, including the Wines of Catalonia. // www. festivalnapavalley.org

July 27

CRUSH MS

Join the fun at the 10th annual Crush MS Summer Celebration. Visit Reid Family Vineyards to raise funds and awareness for a world free of multiple sclerosis. At this multi-winery wine tasting, you’ll enjoy great wine, food, music, and auction - all for a great cause! // www.crushms.org

August 2–25 MUSIC IN THE VINEYARDS

Step into a legacy of musical excellence as Music in the Vineyards proudly presents its 30th Anniversary Season. Since 1995, their mission has been “to enrich people’s lives through the power of music.” The 30th festival will celebrate MITV’s past while simultaneously looking ahead to the next era. The much anticipated four-weekend event has a full schedule of performances welcoming musicians worldwide to convene in Napa Valley wineries and venues. // www.musicinthevineyards.org

August 1–4 V FOUNDATION WINE CELEBRATION

Set in Napa Valley, the Annual V Foundation Wine Celebration is back with a three-day series of events highlighting intimate vintner experiences, a spirited live auction, a festival of music, and an enlightening cancer research symposium. Hosted by legendary Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski, former Head Coach of Duke University Men’s Basketball, event highlights include Dinner with Docs at Beringer Vineyards, Hudson House and Hall, St. Helena, “Rock the V” Party at The Pavillion at Estate Yountville, and the Gala Dinner & Auction held at Nickel & Nickel Estate Winery. Since 1999, the Wine Celebration has raised nearly $160 million, benefiting the V Foundation for Cancer Research. // www.winecelebration.org

Inside Track

What the Locals are Doing

Fleetwood Calistoga Locals Night

Every Wednesday from 5–9pm, Fleetwood rolls out the red carpet for Napa Valley residents (must show local ID) who receive 15% off their tab (excluding alcohol.) Menu items include wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, local ingredients, and a killer patio to enjoy the evening breeze. // 1880 LINCOLN AVE., CALISTOGA WWW.FLEETWOODCALISTOGA.COMM

Friday Nights in the Park

Pack up a folding chair, blanket, refreshments, and nosh, and head down to Veterans Memorial Park on Friday evenings from 6–10pm this July and August, where local bands perform for welcoming fans—great fun for children and adults. Parking and admission are free on Friday nights in July and the first Friday in August. // 800 MAIN ST., NAPA • WWW.DONAPA.COM

Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant

Located in downtown Napa’s Oxbow Market, the Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant is a local favorite for curated fine cheeses, wine and accoutrement. Along with a retail selection of fine wines, beer and artisan cheeses, the bar is a popular gathering place for daily wine flight specials paired with sandwiches, cheese boards and small bites. Open daily from 9am–7pm. // 610 1ST STREET, SHOP 21, OXBOW PUBLIC MARKET • WWW.OXBOWWINE.COM

The Uptown Theatre

Revered as one of downtown Napa’s beloved historic landmarks, the Uptown Theater lights up Third Street’s West End with some of the finest acts in music and comedy. The Art Deco masterpiece was built in 1937 and stunningly restored, offering locals and visitors an intimate entertainment experience like no other. // 1350 THIRD ST., NAPA • WWW.UPTOWNTHEATRENAPA.COM

North Block Locals Who Lunch

Crafted with the local community in mind, Locals Who Lunch is a vibrant 3-course pre-fixe lunch experience with optional wine or low-ABV cocktail pairing. Fit for upcoming al fresco wine country lunches in the courtyard, the menu includes a delectable valley-inspired Spring Gnocchi or coastal-inspired Tuscan Shrimp entree to accompany Chef Juan Cabrera’s signature farm salad. $45 is offered daily from 11am–3pm. // 6757 WASHINGTON ST., YOUNTVILLE WWW.NORTHBLOCKYOUNTVILLE.COM/DINING/

by

Photo

Roxanne McClure

Photo by Gillian Walsworth

ALTA HEIGHTS

One of Napa’s Most Coveted Neighborhoods

Gott's Roadside

//

Photo by Chris Andrews

According to the City of Napa, the Alta Heights neighborhood’s western border demarcation is the east bank of the Napa River, with its eastern border defined by the City of Napa boundary. The south end of the neighborhood butts up to Coombsville Road, then Third Avenue, and the north end is bordered by Clark Street and East Avenue. Though primarily regarded as a residential neighborhood perched on the slopes overlooking downtown Napa, at the base of this hill and connected to this neighborhood, is a vibrant commercial district with some of the town’s top attractions.

Alta Heights, whose name is a bit redundant with the Spanish “alta,” translating to “high,” has a long history, the anticipated neighborhood concept dating back to 1875 when the land was incorporated into the City of Napa. Before that, the region had been an undeveloped agricultural area, and even after incorporation, it remained so until the early 1900s. After the Quake of 1906, many Italians bought property and built homes in Alta Heights, waking up its residential growth. This early development was affectionately known to locals as “Little Italy.”

During the late 1800s and mid-20th century, Alta Heights became more settled via a series of residential subdivisions. These subdivisions were owned by numerous landowners, all of whom had their properties parceled off and then put up for sale, but with no overriding construction concept in mind. Without a master plan in place, parcels sold slowly, resulting in the neighborhood’s growth taking place over many decades and, thus, through numerous architectural trends. The result: quirky variations in housing stock from street to street.

Alta Height’s slow and steady growth was fueled primarily by the need for low and middle-class housing with nearby transportation for workers coming out of Mare Island, the Basalt Rock Company, and Kaiser Steel. Over the years, as more industry came to town, Alta Heights offered a place for residential expansion, the long trajectory of which resulted in a patchwork quilt of home styles – Victorian, Craftsman, American Colonial Revival, Minimal Traditional, Mid-Century Modern, and Ranch. Some homes were two-story, others were single-level, some were on small lots, and others were large. And yet, somehow, the neighborhood came together beautifully, a proudly middle-class neighborhood with lovingly tended yards and well-kept homes: a great place to live and a great place to invest in property.

In addition to its quirky assortment of architecture, Alta Heights is renowned for its quiet, tree-lined streets, which, even without sidewalks, are pleasantly walkable, the steep hills making them a worthwhile athletic challenge. This is a verdant neighborhood, which is a bit like living in the country. Deer, quail, raccoons, and other wildlife frequent backyards, as do the occasional bobcat and rattlesnake. There are two lovely parks in the residential area, one for children – Esther Deaver Park. The other, Lakeview Park, sits on what used to be the Alta Heights Reservoir. There is a lovely, easy walking path around this treefilled park, a great place to push a stroller or for a contemplative walk after a long workday.

Alta Heights also has several geological attractions, the most famous being the neighborhood’s Cup and Saucer rock formation at the top of Montecito Avenue.

In the old days, kids could hike to the top of the hill and, from the “cup,” could see Mount St. Helena and San Francisco and the breadth of the town of Napa. If visiting Esther Deaver Park on East Avenue, look east and upward, and the Cup and Saucer formation can be seen tucked between a

Tulocay Cemetery

Photo by Chris Andrews

Photo by Bob McClenahan courtesy of Oxbow Public Market

yellow house and a green A-frame at the top of the hill.

Important landmarks of the neighborhood include the Tulocay Cemetery on the neighborhood’s south side, which sits on part of what was Rancho Tulucay, an 8,866-acre piece of property that had been granted to Californio ranchero Cayetano Juárez in 1841. Also historically significant is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, which is now empty and up for sale. Down below, at the foot of the hill, is a thriving business district, which only started to take shape a little over 20 years ago. Included in this area are the Culinary Institute of America at COPIA and the Oxbow Public Market, and fanning out from these are numerous tasting rooms,

boutique gift and food shops, and various restaurants, including the ever-popular Gott’s Roadside Diner, Filippis Pizza Grotto, Napa Yard, and The Grove at COPIA. The Oxbow Market is also filled with popular eateries like Hog Island Oyster Bar, C Casa, and the Loveski Deli.

Within the Alta Heights footprint are businesses important to locals, namely Napa Tire & Wheels, Clark’s Ace Hardware, Napa Valley Hearth, Beau Fleurs, Lucas Pools, and Silverado Upholstery, to name but a few. At the famous 5-way intersection at Silverado Trail and Coombsville Road is

also Napa Marble and Granite Works. And though it often goes unnoticed, Alta Heights is home to the prestigious Oxbow School, an arts academy for high school students. Perched along Silverado Trail are some restaurants whose fare brings back memories of the good old days – namely Big D Burgers, El Guadalajara, and El Rancho Grande. Other great eateries that edge up to this neighborhood are Taqueria Maria, a lovely setting for margaritas and tasty Mexican food, and Le Cheve Bakery and Brews, which is located in the Cayetano Juárez Adobe that was part of the aforementioned Rancho Tulucay. Le Cheve is an excellent spot for enjoying a bountiful breakfast and to experience authentic Napa Valley and its rich history – a culture colorfully interwoven with its Mexican past and present.

In addition to its quirky assortment of architecture, Alta Heights is renowned for its quiet, tree-lined streets, which, even without sidewalks, are pleasantly walkable, the steep hills making them a worthwhile athletic challenge.

On the border of the Alta Heights neighborhood is the Napa Valley Expo, where the legendary Bottle Rock music festival takes place. It will also be home to the new Festival La Onda, slated to be the top Latin Music Festival in the U.S. The Expo is also home to the Napa Fair, hands-down the top attraction all year for kids (of all ages) in Napa County, and numerous other important goings-on, such as dog shows, holiday fairs, and more. Take time to soak up the real, local Napa Valley that is Alta Heights. Take a long hike through the neighborhood streets, chat with neighbors, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a favorite restaurant. Be reminded of why life is so good in Napa.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.cityofnapa.org/548/ Alta-Heights-Neighborhood

Oxbow School // Photo by Chris Andrews

Patio Night // Photo courtesy of C Casa

Big D Burgers // Photo by Chris Andrews

Family Fun

IN NAPA VALLEY

 WRITTEN BY CHRIS ANDREWS

Despite Napa Valley’s reputation as an adultonly tourist destination, attractions and activities for families abound, so much so that in March 2024, Yelp ranked Napa as #2 among the most family-friendly travel destinations in the United States.

NVL things to do

While that status raised a few doubts among those who believe taking kids on wine-tasting excursions and to Michelin Star restaurants isn’t ideal, regardless of purported “kid-friendly” designations, there are loads of other things to do in the region that are enjoyable for kids and should not be missed.

If the day needs an adventure, consider some of the regional attractions kids of all ages seem to

farm, gardens, a small geology museum, bocce ball courts, and a picnic area. All-in-all, it’s a couple of hours of fun for the family.

The Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is about 20 minutes south of downtown Napa and is Northern California’s best amusement park. Featured are assorted thrill rides, “family rides,” and animal attractions. For those with wee ones, there is the Train Town amusement park in Sonoma – a great spot for toddlers and preschoolers. Train Town’s fairytale-style setting includes a quarter-size train and a handful of other miniature amusement rides, plus a small petting zoo.

enjoy: Old Faithful Geyser, The Petrified Forest, and the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. The Petrified Forest in Calistoga has easy halfmile hiking trails that feature the fossilized remains of redwood trees buried in a volcanic explosion over 3.4 million years ago. Also of interest is the Old Faithful Geyser of California – not to be confused with Yellowstone’s Old Faithful. Though much smaller than Yellowstone, the geyser is still exciting to watch. The Geyser property has a small-town vibe and includes an animal

Near Calistoga, though just over the Sonoma County border, is Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife preserve—a remarkable spot to see wild animals up close and personal. The park has thousands of animals, from exotic birds, antelope, giraffes, and Cape buffalo to cheetahs, lemurs, rhinos, and bongos. Guests travel around the park on rugged, open-air jeeps that traverse right into the herds. For the full safari experience, guests can stay onsite in the park’s luxurious elevated “tents.”

When the kids need to blow off steam and get their bodies moving, there are loads of great activities in Napa Valley: biking, hiking, rock climbing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. If they’ve packed longboards and penny boards, there is also the option of skateboarding at Napa Skatepark and the brand-new American Canyon Skatepark, two of California’s best parks for this activity. And there are many great playgrounds all over the county for younger kids, the most notable being Crane Park in St. Helena. Crane has a huge playground, volleyball pit, tennis courts, bocce ball, skateboard park, horseshoe pits, and baseball and soccer fields. There are also restrooms and sizeable shady picnic areas with tables and grills.

For families that love good grub and competitive games, grab lunch at the The Lincoln Restaurant (close to downtown Napa) and play ping pong, cornhole, jenga, or Connect 4 on their expansive patio overlooking the Napa River. Great playgrounds in the town of Napa can be found in Fuller Park, Kennedy Park, and Esther Deaver Park in Alta Heights. All are a short distance from hotels in the area.

For those wanting to bike, the best simple trail is the Napa Valley Vine Trail, a great option that keeps kids off roads crowded with tourist traffic. // www.vinetrail.org

For those wanting to mountain bike, Skyline Park is the place to do so, while Alston Park is best for those wanting a less strenuous off-road or cross-country experience. Bring bikes and equipment from home or plan to rent from any number of reputable bike shops in the area, including The Hub or Napa River Velo. // www.skylinepark.org

For those wanting to kayak or paddleboard, look no further than Napa Valley Paddle. They outfit guests for these adventures and drop them off at appropriate launches. Note: Skyline Park, while great

Napa Valley Vine Trail courtesy

Photo by Ray Mabry courtesy

When Parents

Need a Night Out

For adults-only activities, consider hiring a nanny to take care of the kiddos. The localto-Napa-Valley nannies are fantastic and come prepared with snacks and stuff to do while mom and dad are off having fun. Here is a short list of high-rated nanny services worth considering.

Napa Valley Nanny www.napavalleynanny.com

My Vacation Nanny www.myvacationnanny.com

Joanna's Nannies www.joannasnannies.com/ san-francisco-bay-area

for biking, also offers hiking trails with inspiring scenery, frisbee golf, and archery. // www.napavalleypaddle.com

For athletic families up for a vigorous hiking adventure, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offer challenging, well-maintained trails. For families who want to camp, Bothe is the best spot in the region, and it offers excellent amenities like bathrooms with showers, yurts, a large pool, and grills for outdoor cooking.

For indoor fun, families who like to bowl will enjoy the relaxed vibe at the Napa Bowl, with its popular-with-locals restaurant, Lane 33, right on site. While parents are out for a gourmet meal in the evenings, teenagers will love trying out the challenging escape rooms at The Grape Escape. Also great for teenagers and younger kids are the indoor rock climbing and bouldering available at

Rockzilla, which offers all the gear and guidance necessary to enjoy these activities safely.

Indoor activities in downtown Calistoga include the Sharpsteen Museum, which highlights the town’s history through dioramas, artifacts, special exhibits, and a historic cottage decorated with Victorian antiques. Also fun is Indian Springs, a historic resort with a huge mineral pool, where children are welcome. The use of the pool is contingent on purchasing spa services, and numerous options are nice for kids and won’t break the bank. The hot mineral pool, though outdoors, is wonderful, especially on a rainy day.

Additional rainy-day entertainment options in the valley could include movies or visiting museums. Cinemark Century always has the latest kid-friendly flicks, and the Cameo Theatre in St. Helena often has children’s movies. Older children will enjoy some of the region’s historical museums, namely the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum in St. Helena and the Napa Valley Museum in Yountville. Suitable for younger children is the Carolyn Parr Nature Center, whose focus is on Napa Valley’s native ecosystem and which provides interesting dioramas and hands-on exhibits. // www.cpnaturecenter.com

Numerous wineries in the region welcome children, but as many parents find out, the experience can be lacking. For those wanting to bring kids along when wine tasting, the best two spots in the region are V. Sattui Winery, with its expansive picnic grounds and tasty picnic fare, and Castello di Amorosa, which has interesting animals and a castle worth exploring.

There are also many great seasonal family adventures in Napa Valley, such as county fairs, festivals, ice skating, and concerts. Be sure to check local websites for the most updated events.

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SALES & RENTALS

Tables for the home. crafted by Olhausen Billiards

Calistoga Depot Distillery

After three years of planning, the grand opening of the Calistoga Depot Distillery took place in April, welcoming guests to the entire experience and offerings of the Calistoga Depot and its immersive grounds. The distillery and its namesake line of ultra-premium small-batch spirits are inspired by the life and story of Calistoga Founder and 19th-century entrepreneur Sam Brannan. The Calistoga hub includes the new distillery bar featuring the Calistoga Deport Distillery spirits portfolio, five restored train cars, each featuring a unique immersive experience featuring champagne, oysters and caviar, fine whiskeys, bourbon and brandies, gourmet Mexican Cuisine paired with Boisset’s new Casa Obsidiana Tequila, Earth & Sky Chocolates and the Calistoga Depot Wine Merchant and Historic Tasting Room.

FOR MORE INFORMATION 1458 Lincoln Ave., Calistoga // www.calistogadepot.com /distillery

Moro

Oxbow Public Market recently welcomed Moro to its open-market food options. The fast-casual eatery, opened by Chef Mourad Lahlou of Aziza and Mourad in San Francisco, is inspired by the famous Marrakech night market, Jemaa el-Fnaa, and focuses on Moroccan street food. The menu includes grilled meats, flatbreads, salads, and various spreads and desserts. Chef Mourad has brought on long-time friend Chef Jorge Velazquez (previously of chef Christopher Kostow's Charter Oak) to help run the kitchen.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.moronapa.com 601 1st St., Oxbow Public Market, Napa

Purefect Golf Club

Long-term buds and Napa locals Zack Sims, Kevin Anderson, and Brandon Duncan are bringing the love of golf to Napa with their new indoor, 2000-square-foot golf facility. Focused on growing junior golf in Napa, It features two hitting bays, a teaching bay, and full-swing simulators for practice or teaching. They will host kids’ clinics, elite nights, off-campus retreats, and member and team-building events. Cost to play is approachable at $50 per hour for a hitting bay, with Junior lessons running ~$50 per hour. Monthly and annual memberships are also available.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 2480 Oak St. (Unit B), Napa www.purefectgolfclub.com

Photo by Tim Carl

Photo by Laura Larson

Photo courtesy of Calistoga Depot Distillery

Photo courtesy of Purefect Golf Club

Ray Ray’s Tacos

Texas Hill Country cuisine meets NoCal in Chef Rachel William’s new Tex-Mex eatery in downtown St Helena. Using unique ingredients like pickled kumquat and the rich, layered spices in her made-from-scratch salsas, Ray Ray’s Tacos serves up chef-inspired signature tacos, salads, appetizers, and a variety of all-day breakfast tacos stuffed with, among other things, eggs, brisket, cheese, smoked bacon, mashed potatoes, beans, and avocado. Regional beers are available to pair with seasonal bites, and local wine will soon be on the menu.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1304 Main St., St. Helena // www.rayrays.com

Pozzan Napa Valley

Local vintner/grower Michael Pozzan (with wife Mary Ann) opened a new tasting room in downtown Napa at the intersection of Randolph and Pearl Streets. The open, airy location features seated tastings that include a selection of Pozzan’s wine varietals among the Pozzan portfolio—Michael Pozzan, Annabella, Sailor’s Grave, Giapoza, Marianna, Rutherford Road, and Napa 1847. Pozzan leverages his family heritage of growing grapes and crafting fine wine to produce premier wines at approachable prices. With bottle prices ranging from $16 to $50 and tasting fees running between $25 and $40 for a sampling of four wines, this is a fantastic reprieve from Napa’s otherwise lofty tasting experiences. Reservations can be made at 11am or 2pm Monday through Saturday.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1205 Randolph St., Napa // www.michaelpozzanwinery.com

Habaneros Taqueria & Cantina

The team from downtown Napa’s popular Los Agaves Restaurant on the Napa River launched a new Mexican eatery in South Napa. The new taqueria serves an ample and affordable menu that includes appetizers such as fresh guacamole, Huarches (Mexican ‘flatbread’), an excellent selection of tacos, burritos and bowls, seafood entrees and special combination plates with, among other things, carnitas and fajitas. Beer, house wine, and creative wine cocktails are available accompaniments. Open daily from 11:30am–9pm.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 2555 Kilburn Ave., Napa // www.habernerosnapa.com

Rachel Williams, Proprietor of Ray Ray's Tacos

Photo by Laura Larson

The Spa at The Estate

Photo by Will Pryce

(L-R) Top Row: Ron Felder, EVP/ CFO; Tony Hildesheim, EVP/ Chief Admin. Officer // (L-R) Bottom Row: Mishel Kaufman. EVP/COO; Brett Martinez, Pres/CEO; Michelle Anderson, EVP/Chief Lending Officer // Photo by Bob McClenahan

REDWOOD CREDIT UNION'S Commitment to the Community

 BY FRAN MILLER

Acredit union is a financial institution focusing on service, not profit. With its philosophy of “people helping people,” Redwood Credit Union (RCU) is a wonderful illustration of that edict. With over $8.5 billion in assets, RCU is North Bay's largest credit union and local financial institution in Napa County. Their 950 employees serve more than 465,000 members throughout Napa, Sonoma, Marin, San Francisco, Mendocino, Lake, Contra Costa, and Solano counties by elevating the financial wellbeing of those communities, one person at a time through good times and bad. Honored as one of America’s Best Credit Unions by Newsweek based on financial strength and member feedback, RCU also focuses on creating social impact through its financial services and community commitment. Since 1950, RCU has helped people reach their goals and dreams. In 2007, RCU proudly opened its first Napa location on First Street, marking the beginning of a deep connection with the community. Currently, 180+ employees work at RCU Napa locations, and, having recently opened an 8.5-acre administrative campus and

branch on Devlin Road at the intersection of Highways 12 and 29, RCU intends to hire an additional 600 employees, which eventually will make it one of the largest employers in the county.

As a full-service, not-for-profit financial cooperative, RCU strives to provide the most convenient and complete banking experience possible by offering a full array of products and services for consumers and businesses. These services include checking and savings accounts, auto and home loans, credit cards, online and mobile banking, commercial and SBA lending, wealth management and investment services, and more. RCU also operates a full-service insurance agency for consumers and businesses and a full-service auto dealership through RCU Services Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of RCU. Yet RCU strives to be more than just a financial institution. Whether through innovative financial products or active engagement, RCU is dedicated to supporting the well-being and prosperity of Napa County and beyond. Its mission is to passionately serve the best interests of its members, team members, and communities.

“Over the past three years, we’ve experienced 40% membership growth in Napa County,” said Brett Martinez, RCU’s President and CEO. “Our growth here is a testament to the trust we’ve earned from our members, and in turn, that growth has helped us deepen our support for the larger community. As an organization we look at tangible, sustainable solutions to improve financial well-being with our products and services as well as with our commitment to our local nonprofit partners. Our dedication to Napa is further demonstrated by the recent opening of our new 8.5-acre campus. This new campus not only accommodates our growing team but gives us ample space to ensure we can meet our members’ personalized needs.”

The campus includes a community room that seats up to 500 people and is available to local nonprofits. The site’s new Grove Cafe is also the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch. It is open to the public and provides healthy and delicious meals at affordable prices.

RCU’s commitment to serving and investing in its communities is illustrated in the various programs it supports. In 2023, RCU provided more than $4 million in community support to more than 340 local nonprofits and community organizations through sponsorships, grants and matching campaigns, employee giving, and volunteer hours. Partnering with the Napa Valley Community Foundation RCU has addressed community needs

“Our growth here is a testament to the trust we’ve earned from our members, and in turn, that growth has helped us deepen our support for the larger community.”

–Brett Martinez, RCU President and CEO

by accelerating the adoption of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). This resulted in an ADU construction loan product that is getting nationwide attention. Additionally, RCU recently sponsored a “Day of Impact,” at which 850 RCU employees came together on a federal holiday (when financial institutions are closed) to build and donate 418 bikes for kids in need. RCU’s nonprofit partners, including American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation and Puertas Abiertas Community Resource Center in Napa County, selected the children (ages 5-10) to receive the bikes based on who would benefit most.

“Part of what motivates us is making our communities stronger, not only for our members but for our team members, who

live in the communities we serve, and for the families they go home to each night,” added Martinez. “We proudly partner with local nonprofits and contribute through volunteerism, sponsorships, board leadership, and grant-making and matching. Serving locally means showing up and inspiring hope through good times and bad. It’s about identifying partnerships and facilitating collaboration and innovation. It fosters a sense of pride and belonging and enhances the unique culture of the region we all serve. It’s a differentiator.”

RCU partners with nonprofits, schools, and service organizations to provide financial education. In 2023, this included 112 financial education events, which served more than 4,000 attendees, from high school age to retirees. One example was the “Bite of Reality” financial education program aimed at teens. This interactive simulation mimics the responsibilities of life with a job, credit score, family, budgeting, and the challenge of high-pressure salespeople. The skills learned at these events give students an invaluable early start on becoming financially literate. RCU also has extensive financial education resources available through its website.

RCU holds annual “Shred-a-Thons” inviting the public to bring their documents and e-waste to free shredding and recycling events. They hosted five such events this past year, recycling more than 130,000 pounds of shredded paper and diverting nearly 36,000 pounds of e-waste from landfills while helping community

More than 850 RCU team members, including Nohely Macias and Kalynn Lytle, gathered in October 2023 to build 400 bikes at the semiannual Day of Impact. // Photo by Will Bucquoy courtesy of Redwood Credit Union

Brett Martinez, President and CEO

Photo by Bob McClenahan

members protect themselves from fraud and identity theft. This year’s Napa Shred event will occur on Saturday, August 17, from 9 a.m. to noon at RCU’s new Napa campus at 480 Devlin Road.

“Redwood Credit Union responds time and time again to the needs of Napa Valley students through philanthropic support of nonprofit organizations across our county,” said Jennifer Stewart, Executive Director of Napa Valley Education Foundation. “We’ve proudly partnered with RCU for many years, allowing our schools to expand mental health services and supports. As students and families experienced trauma and loss during fires and the pandemic, healing came through services funded in partnership with RCU.”

RCU also supports these Napa Community organizations: Community Action Napa Valley (CANV), which operates

declining math scores post-pandemic; Mentis Behavioral Health, providing essential therapy sessions for community members facing mental health challenges; NEWS Women & Family Shelter which specializes in providing comprehensive support to survivors of domestic violence, focusing on rapid housing assistance and trauma-informed care to promote recovery and well-being; Puertas Abiertas, which focuses on financial education and inclusion for the Latinx community, aiming to address cultural barriers and promote financial security and well-being through workshops and personalized support; Napa Valley Support Services, which works to transition to eco-friendly yard equipment, aligning with global sustainability efforts and enhancing job skills training for program participants; Boys and Girls Club of Napa Valley which emphasizes

vital programs like the Napa Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, serving Napa County’s low-income residents and providing essential nutrition and food supplies; the Napa Valley Education Foundation (NVEF); the UpValley Resource Center, which empowers low-income families and older adults to achieve financial stability through free tax preparation services and personalized financial coaching; the American Canyon Parks Foundation which plans to introduce a Watershed Explorers program to support STEM learning for middle school students, aiming to enhance academic performance and provide hands-on learning experiences, particularly beneficial amid

the importance of academic engagement outside of school hours, offering workforce development programs to prepare teens for success in higher education and employment opportunities, with a focus on mentorship and career exploration.

“Our ongoing commitment to the Napa community is driven by the belief that how we deliver financial services makes a positive difference in people’s lives in true, measurable, and real ways,” said Martinez. “That’s our social impact. We strive to be more than just a financial institution. Whether it’s natural disasters, a pandemic, a recession, or a government shutdown, one thing I tell my team, especially when times get tough, is that instead of running away from the issue, we run toward it and do everything in our power to find solutions and offer assistance as financial first responders. We show up and are here to help our members achieve their goals and dreams.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.redwoodcu.org

Bite of Reality, a financial wellness workshop where RCU invites high school students to learn to budget and make financial decisions.

Photo courtesy of Redwood Credit Union

Michelle Anderson (left), Chief Lending Officer for RCU, commemorated the service of youth volunteers at the 2023 Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership’s Heart of Napa Awards.

Photo courtesy of CVNL Napa

RCU team members Catherine Tapia, Diana Lawson, Dana Jensen, and Nina Schlatter shared knowledge with 1200 students at Career Day, hosted by the Napa County Office of Education. Photo courtesy of Redwood Credit Union

The Fifth Annual

PHILANTHROPY ISSUE

“ We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

–Winston Churchill

Each year, Napa Valley Life dedicates the summer issue to recognize the many people and organizations in Napa Valley who donate money, volunteer time, or advocate for a cause. Philanthropy, the act of giving back to the community, strengthens our social fabric and paves the way for a brighter future. Recognizing those who dedicate their time and resources to such causes serves a crucial purpose beyond simply expressing gratitude. It fuels the engine of philanthropy, maximizing its positive impact and hopefully inspiring others. We think it's important to call attention to these philanthropists to help reinforce the value of their contributions—some of them significant undertakings. Doing so will motivate them to continue their work and hopefully inspire others to take the actions needed to make a difference in the community. By acknowledging their positive impacts, we hope to call attention to their vital work and perhaps play a small role in helping empower our local community to thrive.

Napa Valley Life is honored to present and show appreciation for our illustrious 2024 list of local philanthropists, their organizations, and their causes. Please join us in extending special thanks for all they do for the betterment of others.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Our list of people and organizations featured in the Philanthropy feature evolves from nominations submitted to the Editors Desk. To nominate an individual or organization for consideration in the 2025 issue, please send an email with the subject line “Philanthropy Nomination 2025” to info@napavalleylife.com

 PROFILES BY CHRIS ANDREWS

JANE BAER

VP AND MANAGING DIRECTOR, V FOUNDATION

The V Foundation was founded by North Carolina State University coach and ESPN commentator Jim Valvano. The Foundation has funded over $310 million in cancer research and cancer-related programs over the last 30 years, with 100% of the donations going directly to these programs. In distributing their rewards, the Foundation uses a peerreview process, which is supervised by a scientific advisory committee. Napa Valley has been the lucky recipient of a generous amount of this money, funding the Wellness Center at the Queen of the Valley Medical Center, as well as the pathology lab there, the Atrium of Hope at St. Helena Hospital, and free cancer screenings for vineyard workers at Olé Health, among other projects. The Foundation funds 72 national cancer institutions representing the country’s top oncologists. “V Foundation is proud to fund the best of the best,” said Vice President and Managing Director Jane Baer. “Our goal in funding top-notch cancer research is to work ourselves out of a job, to defeat cancer.”

After many years of producing high-end events and doing luxury travel and hotel management, Baer has devoted the last 23 years to creating compelling celebrations for the V Foundation, events that bring together top oncologists, vintners, donors, and sponsors, the goal of which is to fight cancer as a team. Her highly successful events have brought in millions for the cause.

In 2023 alone, the “V Foundation Wine Celebration” raised $21 million toward cancer therapeutic research. The Celebration included 600 guests, who, throughout the weekend, attended “Dinner With The Docs,” “Rock the V Party,” the “Answer for Cancer Symposium,” and the “Gala Dinner and Auction.” These star-studded events were hosted by Craig and Kathryn Hall, Spottswoode Family Wine Estate, and Nickel and Nickel Winery. Since 1999, these 3-day Wine Celebration events have taken place in Napa Valley, benefitting the region in many ways, with the money raised not only impacting the valley’s cancer programs but programs all over the country.

www.v.org // www.winecelebration.v.org

by Lowell

Photo

Downey

SONYA DeLUCA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & CEO, NAPA VALLEY FARMWORKER FOUNDATION

The Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation is one of the valley’s most valuable resources in supporting the workers who do the hard work that has made Napa Valley what it is today – one of the world’s top winegrowing regions. Through the Foundation’s connection to the Napa Valley Grapegrowers, the work of the Foundation blends with and supports the wineries and vineyards that employ these workers.

The Foundation’s educational programs, for which it is renowned, include adult literacy, viticulture and safety, leadership and management, mentorship, and family programs. The viticulture program provides opportunities for workers to expand their skill set, allowing them to bring more advanced techniques to their place of employment and thus improving their chances for career advancement. With a similar goal of providing skills for professional growth are programs in leadership and management training and the mentorship program. The Fields of Opportunity program allows high school students to explore the full gamut of winery-related positions, from viticulture and irrigation to hospitality, wine production, and office and administrative work, encouraging the next generation to keep their talents in the valley and the local wine industry. Finally, the Foundation’s family programs are designed to help workers navigate educational opportunities in the U.S. to ensure a secure future for their children.

Sonya DeLuca, the Foundation’s Executive Director and CEO, said, “Education is the great equalizer. Our goal is to provide farmworkers with the skills they need to realize their full potential.” And she noted, “What is good for the workers is ultimately good for the wineries and everyone in our community.” Currently, the Foundation’s efforts impact over 3500 farmworkers and their families. The Foundation’s new goal is to expand its reach to 9000 workers, and it is seeking partners who can help make this dream a reality. www.farmworkerfoundation.org

Photo by Jessica Fix

RANDY DUNN

Randy Dunn began his career in winemaking as the first enologist for Caymus Vineyards, acting as their winemaker from 1975 to 1985. Dunn would go on to establish his own winery, Dunn Vineyards, in 1978, with the purchase of a 14-acre property in Angwin. In 1983, Dunn, along with Bill Smith and several other winemakers and grape growers, was also instrumental in establishing Howell Mountain as an AVA. However, Dunn’s greatest contributions to Napa County have come about through his relentless environmental activism and his substantial financial and political contributions toward causes for preserving open spaces. Dunn noted, “When wealthy developers come into

the valley and imagine they can do whatever they please, they find me stirring things up, and they start asking, ‘Who is this Dunn guy?’”

Dunn has accomplished more than stirring the pot when it comes to conservation – he has put his money where his mouth is, so to speak, starting with his and wife Lori’s gifting of the development rights for their 64 acres on Sentinel Hill to the Land Trust of Napa County. But most remarkable has been Dunn’s work in acquiring Wildlake, a pastoral 3000-acre property on Howell Mountain that helps protect Bell Canyon Creek. This creek is vitally important, as it provides the drinking water for St. Helena. Dunn personally donated $5 million to the cause and helped

raise another $20 million to make this purchase possible. This property was subsequently donated to the Land Trust of Napa County, the largest contribution of its kind in the Trust’s history.

Dunn’s activism continues to this day and on many fronts, from his recent advocacy of Measure C in unison with other prominent vintners, namely Warren Winiarski and Andy Beckstoffer, to his taking on issues with CalFire to collaborations with the Center for Biological Diversity in tracking practices causing environmental harm. Dunn’s forward-thinking activism is good not just for the environment but also for the long-term future of Napa County.

www.dunnvineyards.com

Photo by Chester Cooley Photography

BLANCA HUIJON

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,

PUERTAS ABIERTAS COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER

Puertas Abiertas Community Resource Center’s success has as much to do with Blanca Huijon’s passion for her work as it does with her compassion for those whose needs she serves. Huijon came to her calling as a community leader in 2007 when she served as a school advisor for Migrant Education at Silverado Middle School and Vintage High School. In 2010, Huijon went on to take a position with Puertas Abiertas as a case mentor, a position she proudly held for nine years. In 2019, the opportunity presented itself for Huijon to become the agency’s executive director, and both her work experience and education made her the ideal candidate.

Huijon points out that 34.7% of Napa County’s population is Latinx. She noted, “It is incumbent upon us to provide cultural access to this population so they can thrive. When they do well, it improves the quality of life for all in our community.” Puertas Abiertas’ goals are simple but important – to work toward building community, to help immigrants get residency and citizenship, and to connect those who need it with tools for achieving self-sufficiency. While Puertas Abiertas provides many services, its greatest strength comes through collaboration with community partners such as Redwood Credit Union, Napa Valley Grapegrowers, and the Napa Valley Community Foundation, to name but a few.

Puertas Abiertas’ support for the Latinx community and anyone else seeking assistance is tangible and transformative. They provide educational tools for self-sufficiency, skill evaluations for job placement, resources for healing from the trauma associated with the immigration process, and connections to those who can assist with housing, legal aid, disaster relief, and more. As Huijon emphasized, “Our current focus is on expanding programs that address mental health, trauma, and cultural healing. We hope for the support of compassionate donors who understand the urgency and importance of these initiatives.”

www.puertasabiertasnapa.org

Photo by Gavin Armendariz

DRENE

JOHNSON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY ACTION OF NAPA VALLEY

Of any organization in the region, Community Action of Napa Valley stands out in several ways, namely in the number of people whose lives are impacted each month –14,000 – and because over 80% of their funding comes from the community, while only 20% of their budget is derived from grants and state money. This impressive show of force amongst the citizens and businesses of Napa County is an indicator of how caring the community is. In addition, there are over 250 neighbors who regularly do volunteer work in the way of picking up, organizing, and distributing food on behalf of CANV’s many food programs.

CANV’s work is vital to Napa Valley. It includes not only the food bank but also the free produce markets, the Silver Fox Senior Food Boxes, the USDA distribution program, Meals on Wheels, disaster preparedness services, and CANV’s high-quality, affordable childcare program. CANV singlehandedly ensures that no one in Napa County suffers from food insecurity.

CANV’s Executive Director, Drene Johnson, could not be more proud of her organization, her staff, and those who volunteer. She is also proud of the food partners who give so generously to CANV programs each week:

Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Lucky, Safeway, Raley’s, and more. May 7, 2024, was the ribbon-cutting and open house for the new CANV Food Bank, which has moved into a well-appointed space at 938 Kaiser Rd. in Napa. Johnson had this to say about the new facility: “Even if you are not in need of our services at this time, we encourage you to come and see this beautiful new food bank. The new space provides those who would use our services with an enjoyable ‘shopping’ experience, and we have all of Napa Valley to thank for making this a reality. We truly value you!”

www.canv.org

MARK AND MONA LEONARDI

CO-FOUNDERS, MICHAEL LEONARDI FOUNDATION

On February 24, 2020, Mark and Mona Leonardi received the news no parent ever wants to hear: their 20-year-old son, Michael, had passed away. Michael had ingested what he thought to be Percocet but which was, in fact, Fentanyl. Michael readily found this pill for sale on Snapchat, where there is little or no monitoring of drug traffickers. So that other young people and those who love them might avoid experiencing such a tragic event, the Leonardis created the Michael Leonardi Foundation, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the growing problem of fake prescription pills and illicit Fentanyl.

The Leonardis work tirelessly to spread awareness of this growing problem. Illegal

Fentanyl is inexpensive, readily available, and easy to “package” as a prescription drug. The Leonardis regularly put on events in Napa and Santa Barbara, where their son had been at college. They do presentations at schools, clubs, civic events, and fraternities. Some events feature music and their message, while others feature well-known speakers. The focus of the organization is to get the word out on the dangers of fake prescription pills and Fentanyl and to bring this message to young people between the ages of 13 and 24 and their parents. Mark Leonardi, emphasizing the extent of the crisis, noted, “There are no longer any real prescription drugs for sale on the street – all of them are fake. And of those, nearly 70%

are laced with Fentanyl and potentially lethal.” Mona Leonardi added, “There is an urgent need to get our message out there. Nearly 79,000 people died of fentanyl poisoning in 2023 alone.” Another facet of the Leonardis’ work is normalizing the presence of Narcan in public places and making it readily available in Napa County.

The Leonardis’ work is highly impactful to the youth of Napa County, and they would like to keep up the pace of their many events and to be able to distribute Narcan freely. To this end, they are seeking partners to fund these endeavors and an administrator, which would enable them to expand their educational outreach.

www.michaelleonardifoundation.org

Photo

IKIMI DUBOSEWOODSON

CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, THE ROOTS FUND

Ikimi Debose-Woodson describes herself as a hospitality changemaker, in addition to her role as the chief executive of The Root Fund, a nonprofit organization committed to helping people of color gain access to the wine industry. As CEO, Debose-Woodson oversees the organization’s highly effective scholarship program. Growing up in Brooklyn, Debose-Woodson learned the value of scholarship programs as a recipient of a C-CAP scholarship, which landed her a first job at the prestigious World Trade Center Marriott. DeboseWoodson would go on to attend Johnson & Wales, the Marriott and Ritz Carlton Management Training Program, and later the Nonprofit Executive Leadership

CARLTON MCCOY, JR.

BOARD MEMBER AND CO-FOUNDER, THE ROOTS FUND

program at Georgetown University.

Debose-Woodson noted, “I want the wine industry to thrive, and that is best done by creating an inclusive workforce and generally through inclusive business practices. The Root Fund is about making that happen.”

Carlton McCoy Jr., a Co-Founder of The Root Fund, is a force to be reckoned with. He is the CEO and Managing Partner at Lawrence Estates and made history in 2013 as the second African American to earn the prestigious title of Master Sommelier at age 28. His impressive career includes stints at renowned establishments such as Thomas Keller’ s Per Se, Marcus Samuelsson’ s Aquavit, Tom Colicchio’ s Craft Steak in New York, The

Little Nell in Aspen, and as President and CEO of Heitz Cellar.

The Root Fund’ s impact is far-reaching, with nearly half of its $2.5M in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) scholarship dollars supporting programs in Napa Valley. The organization’ s comprehensive programs provide scholarship funds for attendance at elite oenology and viticulture institutions, mentors to guide the scholars, and career placement services. The Root Fund’ s ultimate goal is to ensure the success of individuals from the BIPOC community who aspire to make their mark in the wine industry, instilling a sense of hope and optimism in the industry’ s future.

www.therootsfund.org

MARITA MUSANTE

PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD, MOVING FORWARD TOWARD INDEPENDENCE

Marita Musante is passionate about her work with Moving Forward Toward Independence, partly because the young people whose needs it serves include someone close to her heart: her own son. Musante knows full well the challenges and tribulations faced by those in the neurodivergent community, and she is enthusiastic about her quest to help them achieve a high quality of life.

Moving Forward Towards Independence’s programs are designed to help neurodiverse adults live as independently as possible, and this includes anyone on the autism spectrum, those with Down Syndrome and Lennox Gastuat Syndrome, and those with an intellectual disability or any other number of learning differences. MFTI’s program assists residents and their families in finding living situations where there is a system in place that matches the needs of the neurodiverse client and supports them in their journey toward independence.

The organization’s goals include helping individuals achieve their highest potential, creating a safe but stimulating environment, and providing ongoing support. This is done through MFTI’s three-tier transitional living program, which fosters social, vocational, and independent living skills and sets up individualized living situations that participants can rely on for the duration of their lives.

Participants in the program are not just beneficiaries; they are integral members of the Napa Valley community. One can spot them around town, engaging in activities that contribute to the community’s well-being. They are making a difference from trash cleanup to working at local animal shelters and businesses like the Meritage Resort, Trader Joe’s, Eikos Sushi, and Kohl’s. Marita Musante emphasized, “Our needs in the way of community support are many and diverse, ranging from transportation to making connections with potential partners, and of course, financial support to enhance and expand our programs.”

www.moving-forward.org

WENDI MOORE

NAPA COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER, ABODE SERVICES

Abode Service’s mission is to bring dignity to those in need of a home. Since 2017, they have provided emergency shelter, housing support, and rental assistance, and they have created and managed affordable housing options for residents of Napa County. Abode assists low-income, unhoused individuals find stable housing that supports their needs.

Abode’s principles differ from those of many other agencies – it’s a “Housing First” method designed to resolve the causes of homelessness by providing a low-barrier approach – i.e., no drug testing, and residents are allowed to bring in pets and some possessions. Goal #1 is housing and stabilizing individuals and families, then connecting them to the resources needed to resolve the root causes

of their homelessness permanently. Wendi Moore, Abode’s Community Engagement Coordinator, noted the importance of networking with other agencies in the quest to resolve homelessness, namely those that provide mental health and medical services and that help residents achieve self-sufficiency. Abode also networks with groups that offer pet support and that provide phones, among other services. Moore noted that “Simply providing housing is not enough. Many have had multiple traumas in their lives, and the process of moving into housing can be overwhelming.” To this end, Abode works to provide residents with the basic supplies that will make them feel at home in their new space. There is always a need for volunteers and donors to provide and

assemble the supplies in Abode’s “Welcome Home Move-In Kits.” In addition to welcome kits and contributing donation dollars directly to Abode, other meaningful contributions can come about in the way of gift cards for gas, groceries, and stores where work clothes and housewares can be purchased. Also helpful are contributions to the Housing Stabilization Fund, which defray the one-time costs inherent in moving into a new home and returning to work life: application fees, background checks, charges for a notary, green cards, replacement IDs, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and more. For those considering contributing to Abode Services, Moore encourages scheduling a visit to the facility to see all they do.

www.abode.org/napa-county

MAURY ROBERTSON

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, RIANDA HOUSE

Rianda House is the realization of Gunilda Rianda’s dream: to provide a place for seniors to gather to find fulfillment and good health. “Jean,” in her will, stipulated that her home on Main Street in St. Helena be used to serve seniors. Jean had been a nurse for 25 years and a real estate agent for 20. She knew her community well and believed there was a need for a place for seniors in the upper valley to gather and take part in meaningful and healthful activities. Rianda House Senior Activity Center opened its doors in 2008 and has become that place. One only has to check out their monthly calendar of activities to appreciate their rich and varied offerings, which include writing classes, hikes, exercise classes, and other wellness-related activities, as well as dancing, card groups, social activities, and various support groups.

Executive Director Maury Robertson brings his many skills and decades of related experience to Rianda House, including his creative talents, which are evident in the center’s incredible lineup of activities. In previous incarnations, Robertson headed a thriving church in Yuba City, served the homeless in Seattle, and most recently had been working with the Vashon Island Growers Association.

Amanda Cole, the Program Manager for Rianda House, brings to the center her experience working with the San Rafael YMCA, where she was their wellness coordinator. Robin McGuire, Program Coordinator, came out of retirement to be part of the Rianda team, bringing skills from her work with Frontier Airlines, the St. Helena Chamber of Commerce, the Food Pantry, and Adventist Health.

Robertson noted, “It is important for all who live in the valley to express gratitude to the seniors in our community – these are the people who built the valley, whose hard work has resulted in this wonderful place we live in. A good way to do that is by donating to programs that enrich their lives.” www.riandahouse.org

DARIO SATTUI

PHILANTHROPIST

Dario Sattui is one of Napa Valley’s most recognizable personalities, with his two top-rated and successful wineries, V. Sattui Winery and Castello di Amorosa. A descendant of Italian immigrants, Sattui was born in San Francisco and raised there and in Marin County. Sattui had always been fascinated by his great-grandfather’s winery in San Francisco and dreamt of reviving it when he grew up. In 1975, Sattui achieved this dream, opening V. Sattui Winery in St. Helena, a unique property with the feel of an Italian village. Sattui would go on to build yet another winery with an even more intriguing design – a medieval castle,

Castello di Amorosa. Both wineries have brought Sattui great success and profit, which he now generously shares with his community of Napa Valley and beyond.

Sattui is known for saying, “Tis better to give than receive,” and he is one for following his own advice. Most recently, Sattui gave $1 million to build a preschool in Calistoga, donated $2.5 million to the Gladstone Institute in San Francisco for heart disease research, and $200,000 to UCSF for the same. Sattui is especially proud of his $1.6 million donation toward building a new facility for the Boys and Girls Club of Calistoga and for other sizeable contributions toward improvements in his Calistoga community,

including funding for the Calistoga Public Swimming Pool and Calistoga Park. Furthermore, Sattui has financially supported Napa Valley Hospice, Hands Across the Valley, the Napa Land Trust, Jameson Animal Rescue, Napa Wildlife Rescue, and Festival Napa Valley. And generously, Sattui has signed easements with the Napa County Land Trust stipulating that nearly 700 acres of his land never be developed. Sattui wishes that others would follow his example and experience the joy of giving back to this wonderful community, Napa Valley. www.vsattui.com // www.castellodiamorosa.com

Photo courtesy of Castello di Amorosa

MARIA MANETTI SHREM

BENEFACTOR, MANETTI SHREM CHALLENGE FOR FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

Born in Florence, Maria Manetti Shrem moved to San Francisco in 1972. Ms. Manetti Shrem was key to bringing iconic fashion brands, such as Gucci and Fendi, to the international market under the umbrella brand of Menetti Farrow.

Ms. Manetti Shrem and her husband, Jan Shrem, have long contributed to educational institutions, fine arts and performing arts organizations, medical research, and nonprofit cultural organizations internationally. The Manetti Shrems currently support over 30 charities, including the Metropolitan Opera of New York, The San Francisco Opera and Symphony, Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, KQED, and Festival Napa Valley, to name but a few.

Ms. Manetti Shrem has received numerous awards and recognition for her work as a cultural ambassador who has strengthened ties between the United States and Italy, California, and Tuscany, and the San Francisco Bay Area with Florence, Italy. In 2019, Sergio Mattarella, the President of Italy, bestowed upon Ms. Manetti Shrem the title of “Grand Officer of the Order of the Star of Italy.” Also of note, in 2022, she was awarded “The Keys to the City of Florence” by the mayor of Florence, Dario Nardella, for being an inspiring role model of patronage in the legacy of the Medicis. Also in 2022, Maria and Jan were the inaugural recipients of “The Angels of the Arts Award,” Festival Napa Valley’s highest honor. At the same event, Mayor London Breed of San Francisco proclaimed June 22, Manetti Shrem Day, in recognition of the couple’s dedication to philanthropy.

On November 9, 2023, Festival Napa Valley announced the Manetti Shrem Challenge, a $3 million matching gift from Ms. Manetti Shrem, intended to inspire new giving to the Festival and to act as a catalyst in growing the Festival’s year-round programming, educational initiatives, and its scholarship programs. www.festivalnapavalley.org

Photo

MONICA STEVENS and DAVID STEVENS

CO-FOUNDERS, JAMESON HUMANE (formerly Jameson Animal Rescue)

One would be hard-pressed to find a more comprehensive program that promotes animal welfare than found at Jameson Humane. Jameson Humane, formerly Jameson Animal Rescue, is exceptional in every way, from the passion and hard work of husband-and-wife team and co-founders, the late David Stevens and Monica Stevens, to the breadth and quality of the programs they offer to their army of volunteers and the generous contributions the community has made in supporting their work. As Stevens has often said, “Napa Valley people take care of their own. For many of us, wine and animals – that is our lives, a bond we share.”

Jameson Humane does so much more than rescue animals. Their programs impact all people with animals in their lives, not only in Napa County but also in the five-collar counties. Jameson provides a myriad of services, from adoption and animal assistance programs to fostering animals and the Senior Citizen Pet Wellness program. Jameson offers disaster preparedness programs, low-cost spaying and neutering, and animal care for unhoused or low-income owners. Training and behavior classes are also available, as is grief support for those who have lost a pet to illness or old age.

To continue their critical work, Jameson Humane hosts an annual fundraiser, WineaPAWlooza, which

raises millions each year. In looking to the future, the non-profit envisions a state-of-the-art sustainable sanctuary and a special communication and disaster response system. For those interested in supporting Jameson’s work, know that volunteering at the ranch and fostering animals is as important to their cause as financial contributions.

Sadly, David Stevens passed away on November 12, 2023. His great animal advocacy legacy will continue in all the excellent work done at Jameson Humane. And Stevens’ bass playing with his beloved band, WRISTROCKET, will be greatly missed at this year’s WineaPAWlooza. www.jamesonanimalrescueranch.org

JENNIFER STEWART

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NAPA VALLEY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Napa Valley Education Foundation seeks to support Napa County schools by funding programs that promote college and career readiness, youth wellness, innovative teaching, and opportunities in music.

Executive Director Jennifer Stewart is well-equipped to support the schools throughout Napa County and the community where she grew up. Steward is a graduate of the Napa schools and of the University of California Santa Barbara, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in public administration. Stewart is committed to building support systems for the NVUSD to help its students graduate with the tools needed to succeed in college and life.

NVEF provides funding for numerous programs, including the School Wellness Centers that are now on all Napa County public school campuses, the Crisis Response Project for times of disaster, mentor and internship programs through over 300 local businesses, and the Music Connection, which provides over 900 rental instruments to students in the county with rates adjusted to meet their ability to pay. Especially impressive is NapaLearns, a program that offers seed money for innovative teaching projects, plus tuition fellowships for 200+ Napa Valley educators as they work toward master’s degrees at Touro University.

NVEF programs impact 20,000 students and 1000 educators in the Napa Valley Unified School District, St. Helena Unified School District, Calistoga Joint Unified School District, Howell Mountain Elementary School District, Pope Valley Union Elementary School District, and Napa County Office of Education.

Those who wish to get involved in creating opportunities for the students of Napa Valley can participate in the Foundation’s engaging fundraising events or may contribute directly on its website. The Foundation is also looking for corporate and business partners who can contribute to career readiness programs, both with funding and opportunities. www.nvef.org

Photo by Mario Piombo

ELYSE WALKER

CEO, STYLIST, PHILANTHROPIST

Influential fashion retailer Elyse Walker opened her first store in Pacific Palisades in 1999 and has not looked back – subsequently opening elysewalker stores in Newport Beach, Calabasas, St. Helena, CA, and Tribeca, NY. Add to this the launch of elysewalker.com in 2022, which brings a curated lineup of designers and styling services to the digital arena.

In 2019, Walker moved to Napa Valley with husband David. Prior to her arrival to the area, she had long been involved with fundraising and philanthropy, in part spurred by her mother’s passing from stage four ovarian cancer. Walker launched her first “Pink Party” events in 2004 and over 10 years, raised more than $11.7 million in support of the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Program. In 2021, Walker joined the board at the St. Helena Hospital Foundation. Through connections there, she launched her first Rockout/ Knockout Cancer event in St. Helena in 2022, bringing in over $1.4 million. The next Rockout/Knockout event in 2023 was hosted by actress Jennifer Garner and brought in $1 million for a grand total of $2.4 million raised within two years.

Proceeds from these events are used to provide free Galleri early cancer detection testing to Napa County Firefighters and to fund an innovative pilot program that provides Galleri cancer tests to Napa County agricultural workers. The Galleri test can detect 50+ cancers and is especially valuable for those exposed to carcinogens in their professions. Walker also provides funding to the Martin-O’Neill Cancer Center at Adventist Health in St. Helena, ensuring top-notch cancer care is readily available in Napa Valley. Walker emphasized, “My goal is to provide education and free cancer testing for those who most need it and contribute significantly to our community.”

www.elysewalker.com/pages/ philanthropy

Photo courtesy of Elyse Walker

WARREN WINIARSKI

WINEMAKER, PRESERVATIONIST, PHILANTHROPIST

Warren Winiarski's name indeed foretold the legend he would become, not only in Napa Valley but as an international celebrity in the wine world. "Winiarski," in Polish, translates to "from wine" or "from a winemaker," and that is the path he settled on in 1964 when he drove his family to Napa Valley to begin a new life, subsequently convincing Lee Stewart of Souverain Cellars to hire him as an apprentice at his winery. Winiarski would go on to work with Robert Mondavi as an assistant winemaker, and in 1970, with a group of partners, purchased a ranch that sat below the Stag's Leap Palisades, a natural monument that would become the namesake for his label of renown, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. Within just a few years, in 1976, international fame came to Winiarski in the way of a bottle of his 1973 Stag's Leap Vineyard's Cabernet Sauvignon taking first place in the 1976 Judgment of Paris. A bottle of this same vintage is now

on display at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History.

Both preservation and philanthropy have been high priorities for Winiarski and his family over the last 50 years. In the early days of this work, the Winiarskis were some of the most vocal advocates for the Agricultural Preserve, a movement designed to protect the Valley's agricultural riches from urban sprawl. The family would go on to advocate for additional measures that protected Napa Valley's rural ambiance, including their donation of 200 acres to the Land Trust of Napa County.

Much of Warren Winiarski's philanthropy lies in preserving the intangible – the traditions and culture that have made wine a part of American heritage. His generous gift for the UC Davis Wine Writer Collections is a testament to this commitment. This program aims to build a definitive collection of wine writers' works and papers, which are then housed at the

Peter J. Shields Library at the University of California Davis. Through this endeavor, Winiarski has ensured that the rich history and knowledge of wine is not lost but continues to inspire and inform future generations.

Most recently, Winiarski and his late wife, Barbara, made a $4 million endowment to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History to establish a permanent curator for food and wine history. This bequest came 25 years after the Winiarski's initial funding to the museum for research and establishing a collection related to the history of American wines and winemaking. Additionally, only two weeks before Barbara Winiarski's death, the Winiarski Family Foundation gifted $5.1 million to the Queen of the Valley Foundation to fund the Warren and Barbara Winiarski Stroke and Diagnostics Center. www.warrenwiniarski.com

Photo by Bob McClenahan

After completing his studies, he started a construction business with two friends. Their company was successful, and within just eight years, they secured the largest contract with the government of Iran. They constructed military bases, highways, tunnels, and bridges. Unfortunately, in 1979, the revolution in Iran resulted in the loss of everything Khaledi had worked so hard for, including his company and real estate holdings.

He and Shahpar moved to California and after falling in love with Redondo Beach, the pair decided to buy a house there. Through hard work and dedication, they built a successful chain of supermarkets in Southern California, with 41 locations spanning from San Diego to Oxnard. Khaledi had discovered a lack of catering to the Hispanic community and aimed to provide high-quality food and wine that met their needs, especially in low-income areas with first-generation Mexicans.

This empathetic mindset also led him to become later involved with Napa Valley’s OLE Health, a health organization serving the most vulnerable in the Napa and Solano communities.

The Darioush Garden at OLE Health

LAYNE RANDOLPH

Darioush Khaledi reminisced on his foray into the wine world, which led to the founding of Darioush, one of Napa Valley’s most prestigious brands. “My love of wine has always been in my blood, and my dream of owning a winery slowly developed.” In the 1990s, Darioush and his wife Shahpar visited Napa to celebrate their 20th anniversary. By their 25th, they lived in Napa Valley and owned the winery now known as Darioush, a world-class wine producer.

It was in Shiraz, Iran, that Khaledi had his first sip of wine. “My father made

As a foundation board member, Khaledi played a significant role in establishing the community garden at OLE’s South Napa campus. He raised funds to support its aims to provide fresh produce to those in need, educate people on preparing healthy meals, and teach them how to plant home gardens. OLE Health named the garden “Darioush Community Garden” in his honor for his unwavering dedication to the program.

wine—not commercially, but for family consumption. I was around six when I went to his cellar and saw a big clay vat fermenting and aging wine. I climbed on top of the vat and smelled something good but couldn’t reach it. I took a towel hanging above, dipped it in the wine, and drank the wine off the towel. That was my first experience drinking wine.”

Khaledi earned a master’s degree in civil engineering from the Polytechnique of Tehran, which is considered the top engineering school in the Middle East.

“I wanted to address health disparities and help end childhood obesity in the community, and the garden and nutrition services seemed like a perfect way to do that.” When asked how he has successfully raised funds for OLE Health, Khaledi explained, “Many people in Napa are happy with where they are today and happy to give back.”

Both of his children participate in the family wine business. “My son [Kashy] runs his winery, Ashes and Diamonds, and my daughter [Sally] helps me at Darioush. And, hopefully, one day, after I am gone, they will both take over.”

Especially if your home is Napa Valley. After all, flavors, vintages, and hospitality are just a few things we’ve honed to their finest. So, make sure you take time to sip, savor, and enjoy the bounty of your own back yard this summer. Cheers, the good life.

To discover more, go to VisitNapaValley.com

SAVING LIVES AT BOTH ENDS of the LEASH

Service Dog Sponsored by Frank Family Vineyards Matches with K9s For Warriors 1000th Veteran

Napa Valley’s iconic Frank Family Vineyards is excited to have raised $55,000 in support of K9s For Warriors as part of the winery’s “Frank for a Cause” charitable giving campaign. K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of trained Service Dogs for military veterans with invisible wounds of war. Through sales of their nationally acclaimed Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Carneros Chardonnay, and plush wine bottle dog toys, the winery sponsored four legged-hero, Frankie, providing him with the veterinary care, equipment, and training necessary to become a life-saving Service Dog for a veteran with PTSD. In March, after eight months of training, Frankie was matched with retired Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Palomba, the program’s 1000th veteran.

“We are honored to be a part of this significant milestone in ending veteran suicide,” said Founder Leslie Frank. “This achievement by K9s For Warriors highlights the incredible impact Service Dogs have on the lives of our nation’s heroes, like Ryan, and their families.”

Receiving a trained Service Dog at no cost was one of the major reasons Ryan decided to apply to K9s to help him navigate his

PTSD. “One of the questions I’ve been asked most recently is ‘how do you think Frankie is going to change your life,’ and the answer is he’s already changed my life,” shared Ryan. “I already feel different, feel lighter, and I already feel like he was meant for me before he was born.”

This cause speaks to Frank Family Vineyards’ deep-seated love for dogs and devotion to the American veteran community and honors Founder Rich Frank’s late father, Hy, who served as an infantryman and medical supply driver for the U.S. army during World War II. Hy was shipped out on the fourth wave to Omaha Beach, one of the five landing areas of the Normandy invasion, four days after D-Day. After the invasion, he drove trucks with the oil for General George S. Patton’s tanks and served in combat in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 before coming home after the war’s end. “My dad proudly fought for our freedom like so many of our nation’s heroes,” said Rich Frank. “This is our way to fight for theirs.”

“This year marks an extraordinary milestone for K9s For Warriors as we celebrate the graduation of our 1,000th Warrior paired with a life-saving Service Dog – that’s 1,000 Warrior lives saved,” said K9s For Warriors

Chief Program Officer Kevin Steele. “This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication of every team member past and present at K9s, our incredible supporters and donors like Frank Family Vineyards who have allowed us to keep this program at no cost to the Veteran, and the profound, lasting impact of our mission set forth by our founder, the late Shari Duval. Together, as we celebrate transforming the lives of 1,000 Veterans and their Service Dogs, we look to the next 1,000, ready to give them their new “leash” on life.”

In 2018, Frank Family Vineyards launched “Frank for a Cause,” an annual fundraiser that has raised funds to support local and national charities covering a variety of causes, from reforestation and health research to hunger relief and animal welfare. To date, Frank for a Cause has supported seven national nonprofits and numerous local organizations from Napa Valley and beyond, with plans to announce their newest charitable partner in July 2024. To learn more about Frank Family’s charitable giving and how to support it, visit www.FrankFamilyVineyards.com/ Philanthropy. FOR MORE INFORMATION www.frankfamilyvineyards.com

Gray Haven’s mission is to provide comprehensive reentry support for those with mental health challenges, transitioning from incarceration to independent living.

How can you help?

Gray Haven is grateful for donations of gently worn clothing and shoes, coats, proessional clothing for job interviews; art supplies, garden tools, reading material, bikes, hobby supplies, outdoor furniture, recreational equipment. Gray Haven is a 501(C)(3) organization, and appreciates all generous, large and small charitable contributions.

A new nonprofit Reentry Program serving Napa County

Gray Haven provides a supervised and supportive setting, onsite behavioral health services and integrated health and wellness programming within a warm and welcoming environment.

Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and designed to promote recovery, resilience and independence.

Residents learn how to manage their mental health symptoms, and to live independently, enabling them to meet their personal goals of education, employment, permanent housing, and healthy relationships.

For information: 707.927.3296

www.grayhavennapa.org info@grayhavennapa.org 423 Seminary Street Napa, CA

Gray Haven’s mission is to provide comprehensive reentry support for those with mental health challenges, transitioning from incarceration

BOB TORRES

The Upper Valley’s Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Helena and Calistoga

Giving back to the community is a tradition in the Torres family.

In 1989, Vera Trinchero Torres donated $10,000 to help establish a Boys & Girls Club in St. Helena (known today as the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Helena and Calistoga) (BGCSHC). Her son Robert Torres, the Principal, Vice Chair, Director, and third-generation owner of Trinchero Family Estates, has donated more than $2,000,000 to BGCSHC. In 2012, Bob co-founded and currently co-chairs The BIG Night, BGCSHC’s most significant annual fundraiser, which generated over $1,150,000 in 2023.

According to Torres, promoting the welfare of the community’s children is crucial, and the best way to do that is by

providing them with a safe place to learn. He believes that Boys & Girls Clubs play a vital role in shaping children into good community members.

“It’s really a positive place for kids to go after school. We have a homework club, math, reading, art, sports, and a games room, and it’s a safe place for the kids. We teach basic life skills, respect for leadership, etc. And I’ll tell you, sometimes the parents have to drag their kids out because they don’t want to leave.”

room, games room, and offices for the staff. In 2005, the club started a capital campaign, raised all the necessary funds, and built a clubhouse on the elementary school campus in St. Helena that opened in 2008.

BGCSHC started a similar capital campaign and opened a new Clubhouse in Calistoga in 2017. They also developed a satellite facility in Howell Mountain, as they found it challenging for children to travel from their small Howell Mountain school to St. Helena. Six facilities comprise BGCSHC, including Teen Centers, Clubhouses, and satellite school sites.

“Our mission is to reach out to as many kids as possible. The cost is $75 per school year and $75 for summer. [Other clubs] charge $250 monthly, but our Board believes in keeping it affordable. And, if they still can’t afford it, we have a scholarship program and pay for it anyway. No kid is left behind,” said Torres.

To ensure no child is left behind, Torres raises funds and helps steward the local organization. He has been a BGCSHC board member and a part of the organization’s executive committee since 1999, raising the club’s operating budget from $300,000 to $2,200,000.

Trent Yaconelli, Executive Director for BGCSHC, shared his admiration for Torres. “Bob is one of those rare guys who not only gives financially big year after year but also gives big with his time, energy, leadership, and passion. Bob is a guy who gets involved. He cares deeply about our community and always jumps forward when needed. Bob does all of this quietly, never

Initially, one of BGCSHC’ s primary needs was a clubhouse. Programs were run in existing school classrooms, but the club needed a facility with a gym, art

asking for recognition or acclaim; he simply believes everyone deserves a chance to thrive. Without a doubt, I can honestly say this Valley is a better place for our children because of Bob.”

 BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF ST. HELENA & CALISTOGA

Creating Wine and Food that is Good for the Planet and Your Palate

Approaching the Clif Family Tasting Room on Main Street in St. Helena, chances are that the bright green Bruschetteria Food Truck parked under the trees at curbside is the first thing to catch your eye. And it’s the perfect place to begin this story.

Actually, the story started more than 20 years ago when co-founders Gary Erickson and his wife Kit Crawford decided to turn their love of cycling, good food and wine, and great company into something special. Clif Family Winery & Farm was born from their desire to craft excellent small-batch food and wine while prioritizing the well-being of their community, people, and planet.

This dedication to responsible practices extends far beyond their delicious food and wine offerings. In 2023, Clif Family Winery became a Certified B Corporation status, one of only a handful of companies in the wine industry to have received this level

of recognition. As Linzi Gay, president of Clif Family Winery, said, “As a company that has focused on caring for our planet, people, and community since we began this journey 20 years ago, this certification acknowledges the hard work that our team does and every day to be better stewards of the earth.”

Tending to that vision over the years, a small garden at the edge of a centuryold olive grove evolved to encompass 90 acres of 11 grape varietals thriving in Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain and Oak Knoll District AVAs. In addition to grapes, Clif Family farms over 70 crops on five acres that are harvested and delivered to the culinary team for the freshest food truck dishes and seasonal wine-tasting experiences.

Today, guests are drawn to the Clif Family Tasting Room’s warm, friendly hospitality, where they can enjoy organically farmed

wines made by winemaker Laura Barrett and paired with seasonal menus created by their award-winning culinary team. At tables and chairs on the front patio and on the back deck overlooking the Mayacamas mountain range, there are outdoor options for weekday walk-ins as well.

Always fun for a relaxing break, the Clif Family Bruschetteria (the food truck is open Wednesday through Sunday) serves tasty seasonal menu items such as bruschette, porchetta, rotisserie chicken, farm fresh salads, and seasonal sides.

Alternatively, book an appointment at the Clif Family Enoteca Private Tasting Salon behind the Clif Family Tasting Room for a more intimate and in-depth exploration of Clif Family’s culinary and wine pairings.

 BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

Photo by Mike Larson

Photo by Erin Scott

Photo by Erin Scott

EXPERIENCE AWARD-WINNING CABERNET SAUVIGNON, INDULGE IN WORLD-CLASS TASTING FLIGHTS, AND SAVOR CULINARY DELIGHTS IN THE HEART OF NAPA VALLEY.

POPE VALLEY WINERY Authentically Napa

Drive up the tree-lined path to Pope Valley Winery, and one will feel like they’ve stepped back in time. One of Napa Valley’s oldest wineries, Pope Valley offers an authentic winetasting experience where guests enjoy unique varietals within a relaxed setting. Varied tasting venues feature views of rolling vineyards, olive trees, and the property’s 400-year oak tree—a living testament to the winery’s longstanding history.

Originally built in 1897 as Burgundy Winery and hand-dug into the hillside, the three-story, gravity-flow structure featured hand-hewn redwood beams reclaimed from the Oat Hill quicksilver mine. Visitors can tour the original facility, an intact blacksmith shop, and the hand-dug cave, all of which provide a peek into the origins of Napa winemaking. Today, the Pope Valley team barrel ages all of its wines in the same cellar used for more than a hundred years, yet the facility has been transformed into a modern time capsule.

Family-owned, Pope Valley’s focus is on small, hand-crafted lots. Proprietors Diana Eakle Hawkins and her brother David Eakle work seamlessly as a team; David oversees winemaking and viticulture, while Diana

“Being stewards of the land is a huge part of who we are and how we want to farm and make wine.”

– Diana Eakle Hawkins

handles the marketing and business side. Fourth-generation Napans (their grandmother was one of Napa’s first female tour guides, and their grandfather Lee Eakle ran mule teams, planting and harvesting hay in the woodland area), the two are passionate about regenerative and sustainable practices, from farming to packaging materials. “Being stewards of the land is a huge part of who we are and how we want to farm and make wine,” said Diana. “We strive to farm and preserve our natural resources for generations to come.”

With a goal of producing truly oneof-a-kind, hand-crafted wines, the duo hired the esteemed Jean Hoefliger as their consulting winemaker. Their annual 4,500 case portfolio includes a Sparkling Brut Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, Sangiovese, Merlot, Cabernet, and a Red Blend. They

also feature some very small production wines, such as a 20-year barrel Zinfandel Port, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Primarily selling directly to consumers, the majority of their wines are found only at the winery, where guests are treated to unique specialty tasting experiences such as the Burgundy Winery Indoor Tasting, which includes a tour of the hand-dug cave, followed by a seated tasting within the second story Fermentation Lounge or within the third story Pre-Prohibition Crush pad. Afterward, guests can enjoy the patio for bottle service and bring-your-own picnic. The Farmhouse Private Tasting and Cheese Pairing is a private experience where guests enjoy a Reserve flight of five single-vineyard boutique wines paired with cheeses.

“For David and me, viticulture is a way of life, not just a job,” said Diana. “I love Napa’s camaraderie, its roots, the sense of community, and the commitment to the land for which we strive to be protectors and stewards. In this business, you start early and end late, but there are so many rewards, and it’s never boring.”

 BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTO COURTESY OF POPE VALLEY WINERY

SUMMER MELODY

Priest Ranch Thursday Night Live Music Returns

 BY JILLIAN DARA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PRIEST RANCH

Summer traditions bring with them a sense of nostalgia, like remembering the days spent at camp or with friends at a lake house or maybe even packing up to explore a farther-flung corner of the world on a family vacation. The point is: just because we age doesn’t mean summer traditions have to disappear. Priest Ranch knows this all too well as they prepare to bring back another season of Thursday Night Live, a biweekly concert series that will run through September on their patio in the heart of Yountville.

This year, the event returns in midJuly, and the line-up is still being finalized. Last year’s featured bands and musicians included The Band High Noon (who performed at BottleRock 2023), David Ronconi Trio, Roem Baur (who appeared on season seven of NBC’s The Voice), Full Chizel, Journey Day, and Coyote Creatures; all local talent ranging from blues to jazz, pop, and country.

During Thursday Night Live, guests can pair wines by the glass or bottle with the award-winning Smashburger from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch (a blend of brisket and chuck, topped with grilled onion, American cheese, house pickle, lettuce, tomato, and KPR sauce on a Bouchon bun that the team recommends pairing with a glass of Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon),

or they can opt for something seasonal as new specials will kick-off in time for the first of the series.

“The abundance of summer produce gives me a chance to play around with new and unexpected flavor combinations and dishes,” said Chef Solomon, who particularly loves tomatoes this time of year. “I really enjoy the lighter styles of cooking that are generally associated with spring and summer menus, so summertime gives me the chance to have more fun in the kitchen.”

The featured seasonal salad is a Spring Vegetable Salad with grilled asparagus, Easter egg radish, fennel, marinated fava beans, truffle fromage blanc, and preserved lemon vinaigrette, which guests can top with their protein of choice (chicken or smoked salmon). The Italian Beef Sandwich will no longer only be a special but rather part of KPR’s signature sandwich lineup;

the thin cuts of slow-roasted prime rib are piled high on a sourdough roll with house giardiniera and Priest Ranch Double Barrel beef jus.

“You see a lot of places that do some version of a beef sandwich, the most popular of which is probably the French dip. It’s clear that people crave this sandwich-style— slow-cooked beef on a hearty roll, some form of au jus, and one or two other components to complement that richness,” said Solomon. “Being from Chicago, the Italian beef sandwich with spicy giardiniera is the version that speaks to my heart and soul.”

For sweet tooths, Chef Soloman presents French Toast sticks with seasonal jam and syrup. “It’s important for us to try new things as specials that will keep things fresh and interesting both for our guests and for us as chefs,” said Solomon, who added that this summer is the first time all three properties are fully operational. “While I expect there will be plenty of challenges, I’m excited for the growth and learning that we will all get from what we hope will be a busy season in the valley.”

AURELIA A Lifelong Dream Come True

Keith Bentz spent his sophomore year at Stanford at the university’s campus in Tours, in the Loire Valley, where some of France's most celebrated white wines are grown. There, he fell in love with the Sauvignon Blancs, which are Loire Valley’s signature varietal, and for years, he dreamed of owning a vineyard of his own.

So when the opportunity came to buy 40 acres in the eastern part of the Valley, Keith jumped at the chance—especially since the land was a flat 13-acre field ideal for planting a vineyard and a permit for building a 39-acre-foot pond for irrigation. He planted two clones of Sauvignon Blanc and one of Sauvignon Musqué, and for 20 years, sold grapes to some of the best-known wineries in the Valley, getting consistently rave reviews for the quality of the fruit.

Then, in 2020, Mario Sculatti, a longtime family friend and co-owner of Vault Wine+Artifacts in Calistoga, came to Keith with a proposal: “Let’s create a premium, single vineyard Sauvignon Blanc of our own, sourced exclusively from grapes from your vineyard.”

Because Mario had already proven himself a highly skilled winemaker in his own right, this was a chance to make a lifelong dream come true. Mario learned the art of winemaking from the late Denis

Malbec, the former Cellar Master of Chateau Latour. Today, he carries on Malbec’s techniques meticulously at each stage of the winemaking process. Making premium wine comes naturally to Mario. His grandfather Gaetano was ranch manager for all of Beringer’s vineyards, and his father Ron was part of the winemaking team that made the1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, famous for outscoring French wines in the “Judgment of Paris.”

So together, Keith and Mario, with the support of Keith’s son Adam and partner Trevor Mallett, created AURELIA—the only wine brand in the Napa Valley making exclusively single vineyard Sauvignon Blanc. Mario and Trevor have been pouring the 2021 AURELIA by the glass for customers

at their Vault tasting room in Calistoga for several months—and everyone who’s tried it has raved about it.

What people love about AURELIA is that it’s not one of those light, dry, acidic New Zealand-style Sauvignon Blancs. In the Bordeaux Blanc style, AURELIA is fullbodied and bold, with an elegant balance and complexity. It’s a bright, beautifully structured wine with a vivid palate and mouthwatering acidity. When one tastes AURELIA, they will savor flavors of fresh lemongrass, lemon curd tart, and fragrant honeysuckle—enhanced by citrus bloom from new oak barrels.

Another attribute that makes AURELIA unique among Napa Valley Sauvignon Blancs is that it’s blended from twothirds Sauvignon Blanc and one-third Sauvignon Musqué grapes. This blending of clones gives AURELIA a subtle depth and richness, with delicate aromas of Napa Valley wildflowers.

There are only a few cases of the 2021 AURELIA left, and bottles are available to purchase by the case, half case, or three-bottle minimum order, either online (www.aureliawine.com) or stop by Vault Wine + Artifacts in Calistoga (1124 Lincoln Ave.) to savor a glass before buying.

 PHOTOS COURTESY OF AURELIA

Mario Sculatti with daughter Aurelia

Keith Bentz

Mt. Veeder

Bottling Distinction from Rugged Terrain

BY MELISSA VOGT

In a region filled with endless views of sprawling valley-floor vines, it may come as a wonder that any producer in Napa Valley takes to the rugged terrain of the mountains for growing grapes. But for many producers, the steep slopes of the mountainous appellations in Napa Valley offer sought-after terroir and microclimates that can’t be found on the valley floor—what those on Mt. Veeder believe to be the ideal growing conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.

Photo courtesy of Rudd Vineyards

In the Mt. Veeder appellation, winegrowers and winemakers are working with the same varietals as those on the valley floor, but the distinct terroir gives wines from the region specific characteristics that distinguish them greatly from valley-floor styles.

TERROIR & TERRAIN

Mt. Veeder is situated on Napa Valley’s western mountain range, the Mayacamas, and the AVA is adjoined by the Los Carneros AVA on its southern end. Its highest vineyards are planted at an impressive 2,400 feet, and the soils are comprised of ancient, pushed-up seabed. With its relative proximity to the San Pablo Bay to the south, coupled with high elevation, Mt. Veeder is one of the cooler AVAs in Napa Valley. These conditions force a longer, slower growing season and offer much smaller harvest yields than their valley-floor counterparts. “Sometimes good things do come in small packages,” said Jeff Fontanella of Fontanella Family Winery. While lower yields mean smaller production and often higher pricing, these coveted wines offer deep concentration from the gradual ripening. According to Karen Crouse, Grower/Vintner of Mt. Veeder Magic Vineyards, “Only 1% of Napa Valley’s wines come from the Mount Veeder AVA. The rugged conditions throughout the AVA require that all farming be done by hand. This is an incredible quality control.” At Mt. Veeder Magic Vineyards, Crouse’s vines are over 40 years old, and her hillside vineyard’s steep slopes render shallow topsoil and allow minimal water retention, yielding tiny, concentrated fruit. “The resulting Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon is balanced with depth and concentration yet soft tannins,” Crouse said.

Julie Arbuckle, proprietor of Anthem Winery & Vineyards, agreed. “Mt. Veeder’s hillside vineyards produce smaller berries full of

Mt. Veeder Wines

Brandlin Estate, 2022

Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc

The Brandlin Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc has a lovely bouquet of sweet lemon and apple blossom with hints of pineapple. On the palate, juicy, mouthwatering acidity is artfully combined with mouth-filling texture and soft roundness. Flavors of green apple, lemon, lime, and stony minerality define the distinct palate. This is a gorgeous mountain-made Sauvignon Blanc from Brandlin.

Brandlin Estate, 2019

Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

Aromas of dark chocolate, espresso, and dried cherries emanate from this mountainous Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate shows bold Mt. Veeder AVA-defining characteristics of stoniness and texture; flavors of blueberry and fresh-brewed coffee are wrapped up in a full-bodied, round, and silky profile. This wine is incredibly approachable at five years in bottle.

Fontanella Family Winery, 2020 Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

This new-release Estate Reserve bottling, aged for 36 months in 100% new French oak, offers aromas of blackberry, vanilla, violets, crushed stones, and wet earth. The palate unfolds with blue fruit, roasted coffee beans, caramel, and spice. It's well-structured and mouth-filling, with a lingering finish.

Mt. Veeder Magic Vineyards, 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon

This 2019 Cab is a beautiful balance of depth and concentration with a layered, multi-dimensional flavor profile and bright acidity. Perfumed aromas of wild blueberry, dark fruits, cedar, and a hint of black pepper harmoniously touch the palate. It is full-bodied with a violet hue, rounded fruit expression, and a velvety finish.

Rudd Estate, 2022

Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc

The Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc from Rudd Estate flaunts an attractive bouquet of honeydew melon, Meyer lemon, white peach, chamomile, and honeysuckle. Stony minerality and wet rocks abound on the palate, with notes of clove, Meyer lemon, lime, and melon rind. This Sauvignon Blanc is soft, round, and full of texture—it fills the mouth gracefully.

VGS Chateau Potelle, 2019 Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

This Cabernet opens with dark aromas of sweet oak, chocolate, espresso, and blueberries. The palate reinforces those quintessential Mt. Veeder characteristics of stoniness and texture with spiced chocolate, blueberry, and boysenberry flavors. The wine is seamless and round, with layers of complexity, structure, and silky textures— another Mt. Veeder Cabernet that offers fantastic approachability at five years in bottle.

intense, concentrated flavors that produce some of the most beautiful Cabernets in the world,” she said. “Well-drained soils and great sun exposure combine to make dark and complex Cabernet,” furthered Eric Stauffer, winemaker at VGS Chateau Potelle. Cabernet Sauvignons from Mt. Veeder reveal complexity in their aromas and flavors, combining rocky, soil-like elements, chocolate and espresso notes, and myriad fruits.

While elevation certainly contributes to depth and structure, forest flora also adds its own nuance. On Mt. Veeder, “Vineyards are situated in the middle of dense forests of oak, bay, madrone, and redwood trees,” said

Photo courtesy of Fontanella Vineyards

Rebecca George, Brandin Estate Winemaker. “I think the natural terroir inherent in these sites shines through in the wine’s aromatics.”

LABOR OF LOVE

“All wine starts and ends with the terroir,” stated Fontanella of Fontanella Family Winery, whether in how it imparts specific characteristics in a finished wine or how it dictates farming practices. There is no doubt that the terroir and terrain give Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon its desirability, but grapes in this region are not grown with ease. “Because the terrain is very steep, the farming can be quite slow and challenging,” George admitted. “With the steep slopes and rocky soils, we utilize a crawler tractor, which is better for navigating uneven terrain than a typical wheeled tractor.”

At Rudd Estate, which grows and champions Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc, almost everything is done by hand. “Due to the rugged terrain, most tasks are done by hand as using a tractor is not practical—everything from pruning, hedging, and harvesting takes extra time and attention from our vineyard team,” said Natalie Bath, winemaker at Rudd Estate. Bath and her team have almost singlehandedly harnessed a quintessential style of Mt. Veeder Sauvignon Blanc. Alongside Brandlin Estate, just a couple of wineries in the region have given special attention to this varietal on their rugged mountain slopes. Sauvignon Blancs from Brandlin and Rudd boast characteristic floral aromas, a palate

full of texture, stony minerality, and mixed citrus juxtaposed against green apple and spice.

In addition to the challenges posed by having to farm mostly by hand, irrigation can be tricky on the mountaintop. “Irrigating vines on hillsides can be challenging,” admitted Arbuckle about her vines at Anthem. “But we have found that employing deep-root irrigation to supply our vines water where they need it the most—at its roots—is highly effective and saves a lot of groundwater.”

Growing grapes on Mt. Veeder is, without a doubt, a labor of love for the winegrowers and winemakers who are passionate about this region. The small-production, handcrafted bottles from these estates championing the AVA are well worth seeking. Mt. Veeder wines offer a distinctness of site and style all their own—the currentrelease 2019 reds are wonderfully approachable now, and the new-release 2022 whites are singing beautifully. Wine enthusiasts across the globe would be remiss not to seek out Mt. Veeder bottles for their tablesides and wine cellars.

Photo courtesy of Mt. Veeder Magic Vineyards

The Essence of FONTANELLA

Fontanella Family Winery’s Latest Release is a Symbol of How Far They’ve Come

 BY JILLIAN DARA | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FONTANELLA

On the heels of their latest signature release, Karen Fontanella of Fontanella Family Winery reflects on how far she and her husband, Jeff, have come since originally laying their foundations at the flagship estate on Patrick Road in 2005.

“This wine is really the essence of Fontanella,” shared Karen about the 2020 Mt. Veeder Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. “Jeff and I purchased the property when it was only a house and land. We spent years learning the land, soil, exposures and eventually began planting the estate vineyard,” Fontanella continued, explaining how when the winery was built in 2008, the brand was launched that same year, but the estate wasn’t planted until 2012. “This wine is a culmination of years of hard work, passion, experience and commitment.”

As locals know, the 2020 growing season was warm and dry, which created drought stress and a challenge for the vineyards to produce typical yields. Similar to other winemakers in the valley, Fontanella embraced the hardship as an opportunity to produce less wine of greater quality as

“This wine is a culmination of years of hard work, passion, experience and commitment.”

– Karen Fontanella

they saw how the small, intensely flavored berries reminded them that “sometimes good things do come in small packages.”

The fruit for the 100 percent Mount Veeder estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from the best vineyard blocks. “Jeff wants to work with the best fruit so he can make the best wines,” said Fontanella. The best barrels within those lots were then selected for the Estate Reserve before the wine was finally aged in 100% new French Oak to enhance the inherent characteristics of the mountain terroir.

“All wine starts and ends with the terroir,” said Fontanella about Mt. Veeder’s ability to produce grapes of intensity yet elegance with rich aromatics and layers of flavor. “Jeff is a winemaker focused on

showcasing what a vineyard can do and he picked this particular site because he knew the potential in it for making exceptional wines, and he was right.”

The 2020 Estate Reserve is garnet-purple and opaque in the glass with complex aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and dried currants that mingle with floral notes, anise, and dried leaves. On the palate, Fontanella described “earthy notes mixed with intense dark berry fruit” with high acidity and layers of ground coffee, warm caramel, and allspice. There is some nuanced toastiness from the 36 months the wine spends on 100% new French Oak, yet it’s balanced and integrated into the bouquet and palate.

“While modest by nature, Jeff is truly a master of his trade, and you can taste how beautifully he balances farming, science, and art all in a bottle of wine,” said Fontanella. “If you have wanted to taste a wine that was Jeff’s from soil to glass, the Estate Reserve is it.” Yet, there are only 100 cases available, so one should secure a bottle while they still can. FOR MORE INFORMATION www.fontanellawinery.com

There’s No Place Like �ICIL�

 STORY AND PHOTOS BY LAYNE RANDOLPH (unless otherwise noted)

With its prime location in the Mediterranean Sea and sunny skies, Sicily has been a beacon of winemaking for thousands of years. Influences from Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Normans, Arabs, and Romans have each left their mark, creating a tapestry of cultures unique to Sicily. The Greeks, renowned for their winemaking prowess, christened it Oenotria, the land of vines. The influences of Arabic cuisine are still palpable today in ingredients like saffron, couscous, almonds, and spices, which were introduced by Arab settlers and continue to play a significant role in Sicilian dishes.

Alberto Tasca of Tasca D’Almerita beautifully encapsulates the essence of Sicilian culture, stating, “In Sicily, everything starts with a mix of diverse cultures. Being in the middle of a mess of various cultures is a richness [Sicily] should never lose.”

One of the world’s most volcanic regions, Sicily boasts fertile soil, a cornerstone of its agriculture. The island’s diverse climate, ranging from subtropical on the coast to cooler and mountainous around Mount Etna, contributes to its wines’ distinct taste and aroma. The abundance of sunlight in Sicily aids in grape ripening, resulting in the sweetness and richness of the wines and their color intensity.

Sicily offers 23 DOCs and one DOCG. The core grapes, Nero D’Avola, Grillo, and Nerello Mascalese, are found across all areas, including the region-wide Terre Siciliane IGT and Sicilia DOC categories.

Established in 2011, Sicilia DOC resulted from a consortium of wine producers who elevated the Sicilia IGT to DOC. This collective effort, involving dozens of wineries, is a prime example of the industry’s commitment to quality. Producers must adhere to the quality control practices outlined by the DOC’s regulations to earn the designation.

Yes, it is part of Italy, but any visitor will tell you: Sicily is Sicily. It has an ancient soul and a distinct character. In addition to a flourishing wine industry, it is a fascinating destination to explore, especially the western, less-traveled part of the island.

DEI PRINCIPE DI SPADAFORA

Most things in Sicily begin in the northwest at its capital, Palermo, and for wine, it’s the surrounding wine region of Monreale DOC. The “Winemaker Prince,” Francesco Spadafora (meaning: draw the sword), runs his Dei Principi di Spadafora estate with his daughter Enrica (“Kiki”) and 20-something Assistant Winemaker Luciana Enoloisy.

Spadafora’s noble roots trace to 1230, yet he prefers the rustic countryside to a palace. His passion for viticulture and winemaking is matched by his affectionate rapport with Kiki, who seems to be the one running the show. Speaking in perfect English, she’s doing the marketing, ordering, decisionmaking, and eno-tourism-building work while the prince keeps his head down in the vineyards and cellar. To reach the estate (which offers lodging and meals), guests must travel the countryside and mountainous roads, often without road signs or much cell service. Handwritten signs and emailed instructions guide the way. But the journey “vale la pena,” as Italians say, “it’s worth it”: The wide range of wines is excellent, the estate is beautiful and tranquil, and the farm-to-table meals are shockingly good (and made by a prince). // www.spadafora.com

Spadafora Estate

Spadafora Tasting Room

CANTINE FLORIO

Sicily’s west coast deserves much more attention than it receives. Traveling south along the coast from Palermo, follow the Via del Sale (Salt Route) and visit the evocative salt flats of Saline, then travel to the ancient archeological island of Mozia before hitting Marsala, the namesake of Sicily’s first wine product to put Sicily on the modern wineproducing map in 1833. The fortified wine has historically blended white wines Grillo, Inzolia, and Catarratto, then been aged oxidatively in barrels for extended maturation to develop flavors of vanilla, nuts, dried fruits, and spice. Today’s Marsala permits ten varieties, including Nerello Mascalese and Nero d’Avola.

Cantine Florio and the historic Florio family once owned Palermo’s Villa Igeia, the five-star luxury hotel recently acquired and updated by Rocco Forte Hotels. When Sicily was one of Europe’s wealthiest regions in

the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Florio family were known as “The Lions of Sicily,” distributing their spices, tuna, and Marsala throughout Europe via their large fleet of ships. Marsala became the first Italian DOC in 1931, and Cantine Florio now has a wide range of red and white wines, passito from Pantelleria, and over 20 styles of Marsala. // www.cantineflorio.com

Yes, it is part of Italy, but any visitor will tell you: Sicily is Sicily.

TASCA D’ALMERITA

The island of Mozia near Marsala is owned by Tasca D’Almerita, an eighth-generation Sicilian winemaking family with estates in the Aeolian Islands, Monreale, Mount Etna, and in the rural, central Sicilian mountains at their flagship estate, Tenuta Regaleali. On Mozia, Tasca grows Grillo—a super aromatic white wine with notes of citrus and tropical fruit, fresh acidity, and minerality. The grapes must be loaded into small boats and transported to Tasca’s mainland winery to vinify. The water around the island is so shallow that ships cannot approach.

Concierge at the historic Villa Igeia

Grape delivery from Mozia Photo courtesy of Tasca

There are only two things in Mozia: vineyards and archaeological ruins. In 1979, archeologists discovered the statue “Youth of Mozia,” a Carthaginian-style Greek marble masterpiece from the 5th century BC. On the mainland, the Whitaker Museum is filled with discoveries from the island.

Alberto Tasca explained, “Mozia is still under discovery. You are walking in Athens— imagine the Acropolis with vineyards.”

Wine Enthusiast Magazine named Tasca D’Almerita the European Winery of the Year in 2021. Tasca, President of SOStain Sicily, credits the winery’s insistence on sustainability for receiving the award. “I am crazy about sustainability. Nature can be regenerated, and we all must work on that. It will be much easier if we have fun doing it.”

Tasca’s latest achievement was forming an association of 371 towns that agreed to recycle their glass to produce wine bottles. A designated company collecting the glass from the communities eliminated an obstacle. The resulting glass bottle is less expensive and lighter (a boon to the environment via lower carbon emissions for transport), and its use of discarded glass has solved a waste management problem.

“When we [initially] thought about sustainability, we learned from places like Sonoma and Napa. However, we cannot follow the same rules because, in Sicily, we have different attitudes, different points where we are strong, and where we must work. That is why sustainability must be a local project—thinking global but acting local.” // www.tascadalmerita.it

TENUTA GORGHI TONDI

For decades, Southern Sicily-located grapes grown in vineyards near the sea were in demand, especially Grillo and Catarratto, and grown to be sold to produce Marsala. It was only in 2002 that sisters Annamaria and Clara Sala took the helm of the family business and became the fourth generation of women leading the now-labeled “Gorghi Tondi.” Located near Mazara del Vallo, a city known for its Arabic influences—it has its own Kasbah—Gorghi Tondi used the inspiration for its visual identity, especially in the use of mosaic tiles. The sisters have been wildly successful; their 2021 Kheirè Grillo was awarded Tre Bicchieri in 2023. // www.gorghitondi.it

PLANETA WINERY

Southeastern Sicily is home to the island’s only DOCG, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a blend of Nero d’Avola and Frappato. The Nero d’Avola

brings color, structure, and depth to the final blend, while Frappato offers aromatics and freshness. Chiara Planeta’s family has been rooted in Sicily since the 16th century, well before Planeta Winery began operating in 1990. Planeta has grown to five locations across the island: Noto, Vittoria, Menfi, Capo Milazzo, and Etna.

Frappato has gained popularity as a single-variety wine in recent years, while Nero D’Avola, formerly sought after, saw a significant drop in popularity for years. It is now experiencing a resurgence in appreciation.

Chiara Planeta explained its renaissance under the capable hands of her brother Alessio, Planeta winemaker and Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Winemaker of the Year. “This, for Alessio, is a point of pride because Nero D’Avola did not have a good reputation in the past. It was considered quite aggressive and rustic. And with his elegant expressions, he’s shown it is not the grape itself; it’s where you plant it and how you vinify it that makes the difference.” // www.planeta.it

nod to the still-active volcano. Both show the elegance and minerality that have made Mt. Etna’s volcanic terroir famous. Nerello Mascalese thrives in Mount Etna’s volcanic soils and is often blended with its cousin, Nerello Cappuccio. The wine-producing region includes some of the highest-altitude vineyards in Italy, stretching from almost 500 feet above sea level to around 4,000 feet. Carricante is Etna’s primary white variety, often blended with Catarratto to make Etna Bianco. Etna earned DOC recognition in 1968, and many predict the region will be the next Sicilian DOCG. // www.donnafugata.it

DONNAFUGATA

Donnafugata was named for the fictional estate in Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa’s novel Il Gattopardo (The Leopard), which is set around Contessa Entellina, Donnafugata’s Western Sicily estate. It also has Pantelleria, Marsala, Vittoria, and Mount Etna estates.

In 2021, they released two Etna DOC wines: the white Isolano made with Carricante and the 100 percent Nerello Mascalese, Cuordilava (heart of lava), a

Chiara Planeta holding Eruzione 1614

Donnafugata vineyard on Mt. Etna, by Fabio Gambina, courtesy of Donnafugata

Donnafugata’s Etna Rosato DOC

Cooking with KAREN CROUSE

Sauteed mushrooms elevate a meal to gourmet status with their golden color, savory flavors, and meaty texture. Serve them as a side dish, add them to pasta or risotto, or use them as a decadent topping for steak and poultry.

My method involves a couple of tips that render flawless sauteed mushrooms. The flavors become rich and downright mouthwatering by not adding moisture and allowing them to caramelize. This is a simple yet elegant recipe that is guaranteed to impress.

Karen’s SAUTEED MUSHROOMS

SERVES 4

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large saucepan that fits mushrooms in a single layer

• Spatula

• Knife

• Cutting board

• Measuring spoons

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. (16 oz) button, cremini, shitake, or oyster mushrooms, sliced

• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil or Avocado Oil

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter

• ½ tsp Salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground

• ½ Tbsp Garlic, minced (about two cloves)

• 1 Tbsp Fresh Italian parsley, chopped

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

TIP: Don’t salt the mushrooms before cooking. Salt removes moisture and makes them spongy.

PREPARATION

Before slicing, clean the mushrooms by brushing off the dirt or wiping with a damp paper towel. Avoid soaking them.

Heat the pan over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Toss them so they are all coated and spread into a single layer, then stop stirring. Let them cook for about 4 minutes. Toss them again until most are flipped over. Stop stirring and let them cook for two more minutes. This will cara melize both sides.

Reduce to medium heat, add the butter and garlic, and stir to incorporate. Let cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with the fresh parsley and enjoy warm.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight con tainer in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to six months.

On the Move:

FOOD TRUCK SCENE

NAPA VALLEY’S



BY CHRIS ANDREWS

Photo by Erik Castro courtesy of Joella's Deli

Just when it seemed dining out was out of reach due to the rising cost of everything, along came an army of food trucks ready to serve up hot, tasty, inexpensive treats. Though Napa has always had its share of fabulous taco trucks and, more recently, catering food trucks, the range of everyday casual eating options via food truck has significantly expanded in the past year. Food trucks can now be found all over town, but most notable is the line-up of trucks flanking the east and west sides of Soscol Avenue between McKinstry Street and Lincoln Avenue. From mouthwatering Filipino fare to gourmet burgers, the variety of tasty treats along this corridor will satisfy any craving. Great eats are also tucked into industrial areas downtown and in corporate parks around the valley and are worthy of the short drive it takes to get to them.

Remember that food trucks tend to be a bit nomadic, so if a particular truck has been seen in one location for a while, it is best to not assume it will be there the next time there is a craving for those exotic fruit smoothies or fried chicken sandwiches. Always check the truck’s social media sites for updates on where they will be parked and on which days.

So, what exactly are Napa food trucks serving up these days? In true Napa style, there is a vast selection of mouthwatering options, from gourmet coffee and breakfast pastries to authentic Italian favorites to some of the best burgers in the valley and generously stacked deli sandwiches that rival anything from NYC. And, of course, amazing tacos and Mexican fare.

Popular newcomers along Soscal Avenue tout menus with foods and flavors as good as those of Napa's brick-and-mortar eateries.

The Burger Truck, owned by Mike and Katie Nigliazzo, offers some of the best burgers in Napa. Having years of experience at Don Giovanni and Morimoto’s, these proprietors bring their well-honed cooking skills to their new business. The menu is simple: they offer three standard burger types, made with their unique brisket/chuck blend of ground beef, and then feature a rotation of specialty burgers like their Philly Chop or Chili Crunch Burger. // @theburgertrucknapa

Another new “burger” option is Asian Burger, which offers three burger-style sandwiches prepared with Asian spices and fillings. Their Xi’an Pork Burger is a specialty made with aged, marinated pork. Also popular is the Spicy Chicken Burger with its cumin filling and the Black Pepper

Chicken Burger, infused with an assortment of Asian spices. All three sandwiches are served on flakey Asian “crispy buns.”

The ginger, garlic, sesame-infused KongFu Cucumber, and their Pickled Cabbage make excellent sides. // www.yelp.com/ biz/the-burger-truck-napa

Though just a tiny red food truck, Big A’s Sandwiches pumps out sandwiches and subs so large one can barely wrap their mouth around them. Each sandwich is layered with delicious accompaniments, from pepperoncini and sundried tomatoes to Italian herbs, black olives, and fresh veggies. Sandwich sauces range from traditional oil and vinegar to pesto and

BBQ sauce, with numerous other options available. On any given day, one can select from 14 premium cured meats, 12 types of rolls, and six types of cheese. For those overwhelmed by the options, consider one of their signature sandwiches, which pair up intriguing and satisfying combinations of meats, cheeses, and veggies. // www.bigassandwiches.com

Joella’s Deli is so tasty that it made NVL’s Editor’s Pick list this year as Napa’s Best New Food Truck. It also caught the attention of the San Francisco Chronicle Food Critic Cesar Hernandez, who proclaimed, “The Bay Area’s best new fried chicken sandwich comes from a little red truck.” And that it does. Proprietor/ Chef Ian Rosenstrauch makes everything from scratch- including the buns, hot sauce, and pickles. Also remarkable is

Photo courtesy of the Burger Truck

Asian Burger

Photo by Chris Andrews

Big A's Sandwiches

Photo by Chris Andrews

Remember that food trucks tend to be a bit nomadic, so if a particular truck has been seen in one location for a while, it is best not to assume it will be there the next time there is a craving...

A fabulous newcomer to the Soscol line-up is Lasagna Con Amore. Initially launched as a ghost kitchen, Milanaese couple Chef Massimo and his wife Sonia offer some of the best lasagna in Napa Valley, in both bolognese and pesto (non-meat) variations. They also offer caprese salads and meatball sandwiches on panino. The chef’s delicately sweet Cannolo Siciliano is the perfect ending to one of these meals. // www.lasagnaconamore.com

For those needing a chocolate fix, the Brigachero truck has the goods with its Brazilian-style truffles, known as brigadeiro, and decadent truffle bars. Named after her favorite pet Schnauzer, Che, and her favorite Brazilian sweet (brigadeiro), proprietor/chocolatier Fabi creates a whimsical selection of mouthwatering Brazilian truffles, chocolate “barras” and spreads.  A delight to behold

their Meatball Parm sandwich and Perla’s Chilaquiles with steak, salsa verde, queso fresco, and pickled red onions. Round out the meal with their PB & J Bread Pudding, and it will have been a good day. Located at 2485 Stockton St. in downtown Napa from Fri-Sun starting at 2pm. // www.joellasdeli.com

Some weeks, the new Pizza Dino is on the Soscol strip, and at other times, it is parked at 222 Gateway Road West, where they serve up authentic Buffalo, NY-style pizza and sliders with smashed potatoes to the hardworking folks there. Eric Smaldino, of Napa Cigars, along with friend Pete Cucinella, a retired CPA from Detroit, are the owners of Pizza Dino. Their vision was to share their favorite East Coaststyle pizza with a region saturated by the wood-oven pizza experience. Stay on top of their schedule and location on Instagram, as this tasty fare is not to be missed. // www.facebook.com/PizzaDinoNapa/

and consume, the colorful truffles are available at her pink trailer along Soscol Avenue. // www.brigachero.com

For those who crave Filipino cuisine, look no further than Cooked by Gio Known as Napa County’s first authentic Filipino cuisine food truck, Gio and Karla Ivan treat their customers to some of the region’s best Filipino food in the Bay area. Established in 2020 (during the pandemic), they gained popularity through pop-up events with specialty street foods such as Pork Sisig, Chicken BBQ, Lumpia, Fishballs, and Silogs. Their truck can be found outside numerous festivals, concerts, and other public events in the valley, and they frequently serve their fare outside Quinlan’s Tires at 166 Watson Lane in American Canyon (usually on Thursdays and Fridays). Check out their most current Instagram posts to stay abreast of their schedule. // www.cookedbygio.com

Local Favorites Worth Noting

Platanito Latin Cuisine

Folks come far and wide to enjoy Platanito’s pupusas, which come in nine variations and are served with their signature pickled cabbage and mild or spicy salsa. Add a fried egg on top to make it breakfast, and enjoy their popular side of fried plantains. // @platanito.pupusas

Phat Salads and Wraps

For health-conscious options, consider one of the six signature salads from Phat Salads. The Santa Fe is a favorite, with romaine lettuce, black beans, cilantro, tomatoes, bell peppers, cheddar, and tortilla strips tossed with their spicy chipotle-citrus dressing. // www.phatsalads.com

Tacos El Muchacho Alegre

Found parked daily one block from Soscol Avenue on Jackson Street, El Muchacho’s slow-cooked meats and fresh-made salsas are beyond compare, as demonstrated by the number of people cued up at their truck daily. // www.tacoselmuchachoalegre.com

The Clif Family Bruschetteria

Voted as an NVL Reader favorite in 2024, The Clif Family Brushcetteria is situated next to the Clif Family Winery’s tasting room at 709 Main Street in St. Helena. As one might expect, the Brushchetteria serves up seasonally inspired bruschetta, porchetta, rotisserie chicken, salads, and an ever-changing array of sides. // www.cliffamilyfoodtruck.com

La Gitano Taco Truck

Located at Tubbs Lane in Calistoga, La Gitano offers some of the best Mexican food in the valley. It is renowned for its fish tacos and burritos, quesabirrias, chile verde, chiles rellenos, tortas of Milaneza, and tacos with an impressive assortment of perfectly prepared meats. // @gitanatacotruck

Photo by Erik Castro courtesy of Joella's Deli

Brigachero // Photo by Chris Andrews

BODEGA BAY

Fishing Village Known the World Over

 WRITTEN BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

As the warm summer months begin to encompass the Bay area, a day or weekend reprieve to the cool, breezy temperatures and laid-back vibe of Bodega Bay is a popular choice for many who live inland.

If it weren’t for the 1963 Alfred Hitchcock film, “The Birds,” Bodega Bay might be just another scenic fishing village along the Sonoma Coast. The townspeople of Bodega and Bodega Bay embrace the area’s claim to fame with locations like The Birds Café, a visitors’ center with The Birds theme, and an annual “parade” with attendees wearing costumes from the film. The movie’s iconic sites, like St. Teresa of Avila Church and the historic Potter Schoolhouse, still stand. St. Teresa of Avila Church is open to the public, but the Potter Schoolhouse is now a private residence and cannot be toured, although it can be viewed from afar.

The film showed the Tides Wharf & Restaurant (which is still operating, although the current restaurant is not the original). There is even a local souvenir shop that hauls out mannequins of Tippi Hedren, the film’s star, and Alfred Hitchcock to display on the roadside each morning. In short, the area’s claim to fame is a movie from almost 60 years ago, which says a lot about the community’s sense of kitsch and sleepy pace of life.

Technically, the film was not filmed in Bodega Bay; the famous church and schoolhouse are on the Bodega Highway in Bodega. However, many consider them to be one community, especially since the town of Bodega has a population of 211, and Bodega Bay has a population of 912.

Bodega has a history that goes much farther back than the Hitchcock film. Post-Native Americans, it was named after Spanish naval officer Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra, who was the first European to discover the area in 1775 and explored the west coast of North America in the late 18th century. In 1843, Captain Stephen Smith was

awarded a Mexican land grant named Rancho Bodega, and California became part of the United States five years later.

It’s easy to see why quiet Bodega Bay would have been selected as a movie set, with its romantic sailboats in the distance and grey-blue water and sky melding into each other. There are many things to do in the area, but they fall into just two groups: 1. Outdoor activities and 2. Eating, drinking, and sleeping.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Fishing: To quickly understand the area, head straight to Spud Point Marina, where fishing boats are docked and local vendors sell seafood along the boardwalk. Fishing excursions and fresh seafood offerings are right on the theme. Several businesses offer chartered fishing excursions or guided boat trips.

Kayaking: Bodega Bay Kayak rents wetsuits, life vests, and kayaks, giving guests instructions and tips on exploring the bay.

Golf: Golf lovers flock to the Links at Bodega Harbour to experience its fantastic location, unique course, and breathtaking vistas. // www.bodegaharbourgolf.com

Hiking: Like most northern California coastal towns, hiking is a highlight for the residents and a focus for visitors. The Sonoma Coast State Park starts at the northern end of Bodega and extends 13 miles north to Jenner, offering beautiful cliffs and beaches. Bodega Head, located at the southern entrance to the park, is an ideal spot for watching migrating whales.

Close to Bodega Bay, the Doran Marsh Trail is a 0.9-mile roundtrip hike with easy but excellent hiking

and bird watching along the coast with views of Bodega Harbour and Bodega Head. If bird watching is your thing, the Bird Walk Access Trail in the Sonoma County Regional Park just north of Doran Regional Park is a 1.19-mile trail featuring freshwater ponds and marshlands sanctuary for birds and waterfowl.

Archeological Sight: The area’s Mammoth Rocks are part oddities and part ancient wonders. Local archaeologists believe the strange marks on the rocks (called “polish marks”) were made by Pleistocene-era mammoths that used the stones as scratching posts.

DINING, SIPPING & STAYING

Dining: As an iconic fishing village, it is no surprise that seafood is the prime cuisine.

Commercial boats head out in the morning and return with their catches later to stock the area’s establishments. Most of the dining is casual and al fresco. Fishetarian Fish Market offers fish tacos, clam chowder, and grilled salmon, and The Birds Café has barbequed oysters and fish and chips. The Spud Point Crab Company, located in Spud Point Marina, is an iconic and popular hole-in-thewall spot—clam chowder is their specialty. Still, many crab options, like crab sandwiches, are also available. The Tides Wharf & Restaurant of “The Birds” fame boasts an incredible sea view just inches from the

restaurant’s back windows and the expected fare of crab, oysters, shrimp, and calamari. // www.thebirdscafe.com // www.innatthetides.com // www.spudspointcrabco.com // www.fishetarianfishmarket.com

Despite its casual atmosphere, the Terrapin Creek Café is one of the fancier dining options in Bodega Bay. It boasts a Michelin star, which is quite impressive for such a tiny and remote destination. The menu is innovative and seasonal, a fusion of seafood and global cuisine, like PanRoasted Hokkaido Scallops with carrot and ginger purée, pickled shiitakes, fennel, peas, and arugula and Homemade Bigoli Pasta with Manila clams, chorizo sausage, Tuscan kale, and parmesan cheese. // www.terrapincreekcafe.com

Sipping: Sonoma Coast Vineyards is the only tasting room in Bodega Bay. It offers a guided four-wine flight while relaxing outside, gazing at the waterfront and marina. Add a picnic box of cheese and charcuterie for the ultimate Bodega Bay winetasting experience.

It’s easy to see why quiet Bodega Bay would have been selected as a movie set, with its romantic sailboats in the distance and grey-blue water and sky melding into each other.

Lodging: The 83-room Lodge at Bodega Bay offers dining, sleeping, sipping, and outdoor activities. The Lodge hosts wine receptions in their lobby on Thursday through Saturday, with local wines poured and small bites offered for guests. The Fireside Lounge has drinks, dinner, and firepits overlooking the ocean. Drakes Sonoma Coast has a wide variety of fare, from pasta to steak, salads to seafood. The Lodge is equipped with hot tubs, a pool, a bocce court, bicycles, and guided nature walks. The Lodge also provides guests with ocean-inspired treatments like the Warm Shell Massage and the Cabernet Grape Sea Scrub—an homage to the nearby California wine country. // www.lodgeatbodegabay.com

Photo by Carolyn Lewis

Photo by Layne Randolph

KATRINA GOCAN on Realizing Her Artistic Passion

Katrina Gocan never considered herself an overly artistic person. She doodled a bit as a child and took a drawing course while at University, but she was more interested in the written word and literature. In her mid-20s, she acknowledged the two sides of her personality: a sensitivity and need for aesthetic harmony and balance, contrasted with an analytical and organizational mind. She felt an interior design career would marry the two facets, but she realized her nomadic nature wouldn’t allow her to stay in place long enough to create a successful business. It wasn’t until recently that she accepted her need not just to witness beauty and harmony but to express it somehow personally, and during the 2020 COVID lockdown, she began experimenting with what that might look like.

Within the past few years, Gocan found her calling as an artist. “I was never entirely aware of an artistic dream, or maybe I never let myself dream of something so seemingly impractical,” said Gocan, a ten-year Napa resident. Originally from Warsaw, Poland, she came to the United States as a political refugee with her family in the early 80’s. In

her 40s, she realized that society’s typical roadmap to success would never make her happy or fulfilled. “Some of us don’t really know our deepest longings until mid-life when we’re scar-clad and bruised from all the twists and turns in life. I am definitely a late bloomer.”

Gocan admits to not yet having a style. She’s allowing her curiosity to lead and letting inspiration take over, yet she recognizes a certain theme. “I’m very interested in Jungian psychology, spirituality, archetypes, and the function of myths and stories in our societies,” she said. “I’m also interested in the deeply introspective, personal moments in our lives, those quiet instances before an epiphany or a life-altering occurrence, when the realm of

possibilities is boundless and limitless, and awe is a quiet certainty. That’s the place I like to be when I work.”

Current mediums include acrylic, watercolor, and collage. She collects textiles and fabrics from her frequent travels and plans to incorporate them into more abstract works. She likens her favorite subject matter to stray cats; “I don’t choose them; they choose me.” But mostly, her inspiration is found within different cultures and how people see the world— their beliefs, spirituality, and the different colors and patterns woven into their cultural stories. “I think it all gets put into a cauldron, ferments, and whatever emerges is always a fascinating surprise.”

When not at the easel, Gocan is either traveling with her partner, backpacking or curled up at home with her face buried in a book. “Living in Napa has been such an inspiring time,” said Gocan. “I love being surrounded by so much beauty and the wonderful sense of community. I dare not jinx it, but it looks like I may be putting down roots.”

 BY FRAN MILLER

Photo by Jasin Shields

Photo by Katrina Gocan

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So, why wait? Come say, high! Discover big savings on your favorite products every day and join our Loyalty Program to save even more. Get ready to experience Napa's new high.

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The Sparc Team

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FIND US soscol + tanen 1726 tanen st.

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A Nurturing Community for the Families of Napa

 BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF NATURE'S WAY MONTESSORI

With the belief that education should be accessible, inclusive, and aligned with the natural curiosity and potential of every child, Monica MacDonald founded Nature’s Way Montessori pre-school in 2013. Over the last 11 years, MacDonald and Nature’s Way have illustrated an ability and willingness to adapt to the community’s changing needs and have served over 500 families and children.

When the school started, the youngest age the school served was age 3. It was during COVID that MacDonald, a seasoned education professional with 35 years of experience in early childhood education, realized the community’s desire for infant care, and expanded the program to include infants. Nature’s Way is now considered Napa’s preeminent infant care center, catering to children ages 12 weeks through kindergarten.

“Infant care is the area of programming in which we are growing fastest,” said MacDonald. “This wasn’t my initial plan several years ago when I founded the school; however, I saw what our families needed and wanted to support them.”

What makes Nature’s Way stand out among other childcare learning centers

is the utilization of the Montessori method, where lead teachers participate in a training curriculum that focuses on a science-based, child-centered approach set up for the individual needs of every child during each developmental stage. The stages include age ranges of 12 weeks to 18 months, 18 months to 3 years, and 3 years to kindergarten. Another differentiator is staff consistency – the team of teachers remains consistent throughout the year and does not change. This allows the child and the teachers to bond and celebrate each child’s individuality. In addition, the program is designed to promote education and free exploration in harmony with the natural world. This enriching indoor/ outdoor environment and hands-on interaction with nature nurtures a sense of responsibility and a deep appreciation for the natural world, sparking even the youngest of imaginations.

“Children are naturally curious and love to learn,” said MacDonald. “We support this innate drive by providing environments that meet children’s developmental needs, guided by a consistent staff of loving adults while building a community of families that actively support our mission.”

This sense of community is one of the school’s unique marquee qualities. At Nature’s Way, parents are encouraged to actively participate in their children’s education, creating a supportive and collaborative environment in which lifelong friendships are forged. “Our parents are committed to trusting their children’s individual developmental path,” said MacDonald. “They respect their children’s passions, and they embrace the challenges of parenthood by learning about implementing Montessori into their homes.”

“My first son started at Nature’s Way when he was nine months old, and now he’s 3,” said parent Cari Roberts Cameron. “It is such an incredible school, program, and community. I can confidently say the school was a huge factor in the development of my son’s independence, curiosity, and happiness. He’s been so loved there and encouraged. My younger daughter started recently, and we can’t wait to watch her flourish.”

“Our mission is simply to prepare children for life,” added MacDonald. “And simply put, children are happy at Nature’s Way.”

DATE the RATE, MARRYthe HOUSE Navigating Higher Rates In Today's Market

In real estate, the dynamics between interest rates and housing prices often play a pivotal role in shaping buyer behavior. The phrase "date the rate, marry the house" encapsulates the delicate balance between timing the market based on interest rates and finding the perfect home, but what exactly does this mean, and how does it influence the decision-making process for homebuyers?

Traditionally, housing prices tend to be lower when interest rates are higher. This correlation stems from the economic principle that higher borrowing costs reduce affordability, leading to decreased demand and lower home prices. Conversely, when interest rates are lower, housing prices tend to rise due to increased affordability and heightened demand.

However, the collective mindset often dictates a different approach. Many buyers instinctively wait for interest rates to drop before making a purchase, believing it to be the best choice. This strategy seems logical, as lower interest rates translate to lower monthly mortgage payments and potentially greater purchasing power. Yet, there exists a flip side to this narrative.

The recent real estate frenzy of 2020-2022 is a poignant example of this phenomenon. Historically, low interest rates spurred a surge in housing demand during this period, driving prices upward and intensifying buyer competition. Consequently, waiting for rates to drop may not always guarantee a favorable outcome, especially in a highly competitive market with escalating prices and limited inventory.

In today's market landscape, housing prices have stabilized, and days on the market have increased opportunities for savvy buyers to capitalize on favorable conditions. In Napa County, for instance, the average days on the market have risen by 25% for properties priced under $1 million and by 47% for properties priced at $1 million or above since 2023. This shift in market dynamics presents a unique window of opportunity for buyers to negotiate with sellers and secure advantageous terms.

The concept of "date the rate, marry the house" resonates with historical data that underscores the long-term benefits of locking in favorable interest rates. Consider the example of 1971, when interest rates hovered around 7%. It took over two decades for interest rates

to dip below this threshold. In that time, property values quadrupled, underscoring the significant impact of interest rates on long-term home equity growth.

The current market presents an opportune moment for prospective buyers to make a move. With reduced competition from other buyers, increased housing inventory, and a greater willingness among sellers to negotiate, buyers could benefit from these more favorable market conditions. Moreover, if interest rates dip, buyers can take advantage of refinancing, locking in a lower rate and enjoying the lower price they snagged for the home, all while facing less competition, and now with that lower interest rate as well. Win, win, win. Conversely, if rates were to increase, buyers would be insulated from the impact of higher borrowing costs.

In essence, "date the rate, marry the house" encapsulates the strategic approach of prioritizing favorable interest rates while recognizing the enduring value of homeownership. If you want to chat about how to position yourself for real estate success in this market, feel free to reach out for a consultation.

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

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

BUILT ON TRUST

5T Wealth Considers its Clients Family

Some people are natural investors and enjoy spending hours following the stock market. Talking with a financial advisor can feel like deciphering a foreign language for the rest of us. In the end, establishing a relationship with an advisor always comes down to trust. 5T Wealth understands this. Co-founder Paul Krsek said their mission is “to be the trusted primary advisor for individuals and families.”

Krsek and his wife Meghan opened their wealth management firm in 1998 in St. Helena. Before that, he had been working with Wall Street firms for years. She had been in public accounting. He had seen firsthand how conflicts of interest drove many business models, sometimes in direct opposition to their clients’ interests. In the company’s early years, Krsek advised people to hire an advisor if they didn’t have the five key characteristics that would allow them to manage their wealth successfully. They were the 5 T’s: Time, Temperament, Technology, Talent and Team. The 5 T’s caught on so well that a client advised them to change the name of their company, 5T Wealth, LLC. “The 5 T’s are as relevant today as they were 25 years ago”, said Krsek. “Perhaps even more so because of how quickly the industry is adapting and changing. Stresses on investors are greater than ever.”

Time is probably the easiest one for clients to understand. “Our clients usually don’t have the time to review investment opportunities and stay current on what’s happening in the markets. Even if they do, it’s hardly what they want to be doing with their free time”, noted Chris Roth, 5T Wealth’s Chief Investment Officer. Fortunately for their clients, 5T Wealth’s investment team is paying attention to the twists and turns of markets and looking to reallocate portfolios to either protect capital or take advantage of opportunities.

Temperament is critical for making solid financial decisions while keeping emotions out of the way. Making decisions and appearing committed to lifelong goals is easy when everything is going smoothly. Staying even-tempered and determined enough to manage through tough times to achieve those goals is another thing. The Krseks, Chris Roth, and the rest of the 5T Wealth team have demonstrated decades of eventempered, skilled management.

Technology is playing an ever more critical role and 5T Wealth is taking full advantage for its clients. Krsek said, “There are many solutions today in administration, communications, trading, financial planning, tax planning, and investing that simply weren’t

around when we started. Chris Roth, our Chief Investment Officer, interacts with investment teams and technology platforms around the world on a daily basis. He has fully automated our trading so that we can customize portfolios to suit our client’s needs and make investments in the most tax-efficient ways.”

Talent can refer to understanding investors’ various options in today’s market and determining which are suitable for each client. 5T Wealth offers more than its investment talent, including financial planning, tax planning, and charitable giving planning. Family Office Services also set 5T Wealth apart, led by Meghan and her team.

Team may be the T that most sets 5T Wealth apart from other advisory firms. Every member has years of experience, is skilled at their job, and is truly dedicated to the client’s well-being. Krsek proudly stated, “This is an amazing veteran team. I’m so happy they have all dedicated their careers to our clients. Chris Roth is simply the best investment advisor I’ve ever met.”

5T Wealth, LLC

25 Ye a r s

VISIONARY WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Our mission is simple: to be the trusted primary advisor and wealth manager for individuals and families who are seeking long term financial security and wish to use their personal and financial resources to make their lives more meaningful and productive for themselves, their families and their community.

Above all else, we work as your team to create an integrated financial plan. Contact us today to learn more.

At Your Service WINE TOUR DRIVERS

BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF WINE TOUR DRIVERS

As the ultimate designated driver service, Wine Tour Drivers guarantees its customers a relaxing— and safe—venture through wine country. The unique service provides professional drivers for those who prefer to fully enjoy their winetasting experiences within Napa, Sonoma, and a variety of other Northern California wine locations. Here’s how it works: Clients provide the vehicle, either a personal car or a rental, and Wine Tour Drivers provides the licensed and insured driver, as well as concierge services. The driver rate is $55/hour for a group of up to 11, with a six-hour minimum. (The company can also provide a vehicle for an additional charge if requested.) After booking, the guest is queried about their particular interests, yet Wine Tour Drivers is more than equipped to offer suggestions.

“We pride ourselves on our FREE Concierge services,” said Deanna Irish, who founded the business with her son nearly 15 years ago. “Our drivers are passionate about wine and sharing their knowledge with guests. We provide free itinerary planning; we can make reservations, bring complimentary water, and pick up lunch orders. We cater to our guests so they can have a memorable wine day.”

Every driver within the company strives to make guests feel like they

“We strive to introduce our guests to exactly what they are seeking with a wine country visit: great varietals, beautiful views, and gracious hospitality, all with the ease of chauffeured transport. We love what we do.”

–Deanna Irish, Founder

are getting a personal tour from a local insider. Drivers regularly visit wineries where they forge relationships that benefit their clients. Drivers also regularly participate in wine-tasting educational seminars and regularly dine at local restaurants, allowing them to make educated recommendations.

Deanna’s first-ever tour was an experiment of sorts. In 2011, she spent two days driving a group of five Minnesota women throughout Napa. On the third day, the group then moved north on their own to Healdsburg. Deanna told them to call

her if they ended up needing a ride. They did; they called, and Deanna drove them in their car back to their hotel while her friend drove her own car back to Napa. After that tour, she was hooked but still working a full-time corporate job. She began taking vacation days to drive groups to wineries until she eventually gave notice. She has since been running Wine Tour Drivers full-time.

A typical itinerary includes three wineries within a day, a lunch stop, and perhaps a dinner stop afterward. Budget expectations are always factored in, as is an interest in simply tasting and/or buying. Drivers are well-versed in wineries that cater to wine neophytes and those that cater to aficionados, and they share this information with each other. In addition to recommendations received from the various wineries that Wine Tour Drivers frequents, the service is endorsed by knowledgeable concierges at local hotels and resorts.

“We strive to introduce our guests to exactly what they are seeking with a wine country visit: great varietals, beautiful views, and gracious hospitality, all with the ease of chauffeured transport,” said Deanna. “We love what we do.”

We’re a designated driver service licensed and insured to drive your rental or personal vehicle on a private wine tour with FREE concierge services. We’ve been offering private tours since 2010 and have vast knowlege of the area and boutique wineries.

SOLBAR RESTAURANT Solbar divides its menu into light, delicate flavors to stimulate your palate and bold, savory dishes, all with ingredients that showcase the best of what’s fresh and seasonal in the Napa Valley. Enjoy outdoor dining on the sunlit Solbar patio, or the new Picobar, for dining al fresco or relaxing by the firepits overlooking the landmark pool.

755 SILVERADO TRL, CALISTOGA // 707- 226-0860 // AUBERGERESORTS.COM

HERITAGE EATS Heritage Eats offers a fast-casual, globally-inspired menu that thinks and acts locally. The popular restaurant serves up tacos, wraps, baos, rice and salad bowls made-to-order with choice of protein, toppings and sauces with unique flavor profiles from all over the world. The Dirty Fries, Papa K’s Burger and Haven Wings are local favorites.

3824 BEL AIRE PLAZA, NAPA // 707-226-3287 // WWW.HERITAGEEATS.COM

FIRST & FRANKLIN Downtown Napa’s newest Marketplace and Deli features the best of the Napa Valley. The Marketplace offers a full-service deli and a specialty Grocery Store selling local wine and craft beer. The store is filled with grab-and-go or made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and picnic side salads for you to take home or enjoy on either of their two patios.

OSHA THAI Led by renowned Chef Lalita Souksamlane, the menu highlights her award-winning flavors and showcases dishes never before tasted at her other restaurants. Sourced with ingredients grown in her own personal garden and partnering with local vendors, Osha Thai provides an authentic farm-totable experience with quintessential wine country flair.

1142 MAIN STREET, NAPA // 707-253-8880 // WWW.OSHATHAI.COM/NAPA

is a community-centered

with

PIZZERIA TRA VIGNE For the past 25 years, Pizzeria Tra Vigne reigns one of St. Helena's local treasures. Guests of all ages enjoy the pasta, pizza, or a fresh daily special to go at this vibrant, family restaurant. Their pizzas are a crowd favorite to eat in or carry out. There's plenty of seating outdoors on the beautiful patio, complete with a bocce court, or inside with family and friends.

THAI

SOUTHSIDE CAFÉ Southside

café and coffee bar

three locations: Carneros, Yountville, and Century in South Napa. They serve a chef-driven menu of authentic California cuisine with a Latin influence, specialty coffee from Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters, and beer & wine from friends in the Napa Valley. Open for breakfast, lunch, and Century is also open for dinner.

Photo by Darren Brazil

C CASA “Reimagined Mexican Flavors, Globally Inspired Ingredients.” Feast on a menu of innovative tacos featuring housemade white corn tortillas, deliciously nutritious salads, and spice-rubbed rotisserie chickens and woodfired entrées. Enjoy margaritas, craft cocktails, tequila flights, and patio dining. Vegetarian/Vegan offerings, 100% Gluten Free and ROCKIN’ DELICIOUS!

OXBOW PUBLIC MARKET // 610 1ST ST., NAPA // 707-226-7700 // MYCCASA.COM

PALISADES SALOON Located in downtown Napa, Napa Palisades is a local gourmet grub pub serving American comfort food with a

Their full bar serves up their own Napa Palisades Beer Company house brews, over 30 local craft beers and many guest taps. They boast 16 big screen TV’s, weekend brunch and a popular happy hour. 1000 MAIN

THE GRILL

NAPA GENERAL STORE Proudly supporting local food purveyors and locally sourced ingredients, Napa General Store’s riverside patio is an ideal spot for enjoying a meal with family and friends (including four-legged ones). Join them for breakfast and lunch during the week and award-winning brunch on weekends. Come for the food and stay for the great wines and artisan gifts.

MAIN STREET, NAPA // 707-259-0762 // WWW.NAPAGENERALSTORE.COM

GRILLE 29 Nestled in Embassy Suites Napa Valley, Grille 29 offers a casual, friendly space ideal for a business lunch, after work drinks or dinner with the family. The tall rustic ceiling with chandeliers, sofa seating and beautiful oak bar add an old-world charm to the intimate dining room and lounge. Enjoy delightful entrees using fresh products and herbs grown from its very own garden!

1075 CALIFORNIA BLVD., NAPA // 707-320-9520

NAPA NOODLES Eiko’s sister restaurant, Napa Noodles, is an Asian Pacific Rim-style restaurant that fuses the delicious taste of Asian noodles with Napa Valley cuisine. Specialties include house-made noodles, savory soups, slow-roasted meats, seasonal salads, duck, flavorful rice dishes, Asian beers, Sake, and local wines.

// WWW.NAPANOODLES.COM

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Published six time a year, Napa Valley Life defines and celebrates Napa Valley–whether you live here or are planning a visit. Each issue is dedicated to stories and features focused on the heart of Napa Valley, imersiing readers into the community with the latest news and events, the best places to sip, eat, stay, shop, and play, and ways to maximize living in or visiting our beautiful valley.

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