THE 23rd ANNUAL
Intriguing Issue
COVER STORY
CREATIONS FINE JEWELERS A Gem in the Heart of Napa
PLUS+
St. Helena: History, Heart, and Heritage
Solvang: Celebrate Julefest in Little Denmark
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30 34 58 74 Cover Story Creations Fine Jewelers: A Gem in the Heart of Napa 23rd Annual Intriguing People Issue AVA Series St. Helena: History, Heart, and Heritage Side Trip Solvang: Celebrate Julefest in Little Denmark
Say hello to DreamStart
NV Scene • 12
Calendar of Events 19 Inside Track: What the Locals are Doing 20 Spend a Day in American Canyon 23 Napa Valley: Dressed in Holiday Style
25 Celebrate the Holidays at Merry Meritage What’s Hot • 26
56 Jean-Charles Boisset: Wine Enthusiast’s 2024 Person of the Year
66 Savor the Season: Holiday Dining Napa Valley Style
73 Cooking with Karen Crouse
78 Napa Tracy Style: Planning to Sell Your Home in 2025? Start Prepping Now
It’s a Wrap
It’s hard to believe the year is coming to an end, and in just a few weeks, 2025 will be upon us. As we close out 2024, we pause to reflect and celebrate the region’s bounties. It’s also the time we present "the List"- our annual community feature showcasing some of Napa’s most intriguing residents, each with an interesting story or distinguished background and with whom everyone should try to get to know.
Our cover story celebrates one of Napa Valley’s intriguing couples, Melissa and Brian Doughty, owners of Creations Fine Jewelers. Creations has been a family-run operation for nearly 50 years, and the Daughty’s maintain the tradition that jewelry is not merely a commodity but a symbol of emotion and memory, which has helped the duo build a multi-generational bond among their many customers. This past year, Creations Fine Jewelers relocated and expanded to its new location in North Napa, where Melissa and Brian continue to help the Napa community celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.
Napa Valley is illuminated in December with holiday celebrations, brightly decorated towns and businesses, special restaurant menus, winery experiences, and shopping opportunities. In this issue, we’ve included some great ideas to supplement your merrymaking, whether it be festive cocktails to sip, where to find the best holiday dining, or the best spots to capture the season’s spirit—Napa style.
For a unique holiday experience with a European flair, take a side trip to Santa Ynez Valley to visit Solvang during Julefest. Founded in 1911 by three Danish immigrants, Solvang’s Nordic vibe invites visitors to enjoy the "Danish Capital of America," particularly during the Holidays, when everything is decorated in twinkling lights. From November 29 through January 5, the village celebrates Julefest, a festive extravaganza decked out with music, shopping, food, and wine.
In this issue, our AVA Series features St. Helena. Situated in the narrowest part of Napa Valley, this historic AVA, officially recognized in 1995, is known for its warm temperatures and volcanic soils, which offer a robust canvas for the area ’s passionate winemakers. Sheltered by mountains that balance the forces of heat and shelter, the terroir fosters the ability to produce ripe, full-bodied grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc —and some of the most elegant wines in Napa Valley.
No matter where you find yourself this holiday season, the team at Napa Valley Life wishes you all the best, followed by a brand new year filled with health and happiness.
Cheers!
Laura Larson Editor
Ultimate Wine Tours is a smaller, highly-regarded wine tour company specializing in boutique wineries. Often times, this can lead to guests being hosted by the winery owner, or a visit to their home for a tasting –to sip wine while enjoying fantastic, private views of the Valley.
We have been offering unforgettable wine tours in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys since 2014 at rates that are affordable. We want our guest experiences to be unforgettable and avoid “cookie cutter” tours. Itineraries are personally customized around guest preferences and we are not connected or affiliated with the wineries or your tour. Most importantly, guests will not be tasting with a group of people they do not know.
With us, you will tour with one of our wine specialists, specifically assigned to you and your group. Our goal is for guests to learn about the history of the wineries, the Valley, the grape growing and wine making processes and of course, enjoy the wine. Let us create an incredibly memorable experience, just for you.
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2022
Best of Sonoma award, 2022, 2023, 2024
// 707-484-7317 // ultimatewinetours.com
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Derek Wright
CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER
Candi Thomas
EDITOR
Laura Larson
laura.larson@napavalleylife.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Erin Hayden Seal
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Heather Voorhis
ADVERTISING SALES
Lydia Hall lydia.hall@napavalleylife.com
EXECUTIVE
CONSULTANT/PARTNER
Kevin Evans
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Fran Miller
Laurie Jo Miller Farr
Layne Randolph
Chris Andrews
Jillian Dara
Melissa Vogt
Susan L. Richards
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bob McClenahan
Art & Clarity – Lowell Downey
ABOUT THE COVER
Creations Jewelers Owners Melissa and Rob Doughty in front of their new store in North Napa
Photo by Bob McClenahan
Corporate Headquarters: 314 E. Highland Mall Blvd., Suite 125, Austin, TX 78752 /NVLife @napavalleylifemag
MODERN LUXURY STYLISH LIVING
Experience modern luxury and stylish living at The Watermark at Napa Valley. Our commitment to continuous modernization means that we invest in the home you live in, providing unrivaled amenities and fostering a strong sense of community. The Watermark at Napa Valley stands as the premier choice for Active Independent Living, Assisted Living, The Bridge, and Memory Care in Napa, offering a lifestyle that blends style, sophistication, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
NV Scene
What’s Been Happening Around Town
CALISTOGA HARVEST TABLE
# PHOTOS
BY
MIRIAM CARBÓ AMORÓS
On September 8, Calistoga’s local restaurants and wineries participated in the Annual Calistoga Harvest Table presented by Visit Calistoga and the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce. The popular epicurean event is celebrated with a 1,000-foot-long table set along the center of Calistoga’s main drag, Lincoln Avenue, and is designed to bring awareness to local restaurants and wineries. Menus were curated from 12 Calistoga restaurants, and wine from 14 Calistoga wineries could be enjoyed by the glass or bottle. // www.visitcalistoga.com
HANDS ACROSS THE VALLEY
# PHOTOS COURTESY OF HANDS ACROSS THE VALLEY
The historic Charles Krug Winery served as the backdrop for the Hands Across the Valley 32nd annual fundraising event on September 14, raising $460K in support of Napa County’s safety-net food organizations. Guests were treated to a cocktail reception featuring 17 Napa Valley restaurants and 19 premier Napa Valley wineries—accompanied by musician James Patrick Regan. Former KTVU sports director Mark Ibanez took the stage as the emcee, and Foodie Chap Liam Mayclem led the charge as auctioneer. The bidding included silent auction lots along with the live auction, which included Andy Beckstoffer’s donation of one ton of George II Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to be produced into two barrels by winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. The event ended with an after-party featuring DJ Rotten Robbie, a port and wine station, a cigar bar, and desserts provided by Napa’s Sweetie Pies. // www.handsacrossthevalley.com
PROCORE CHAMPIONSHIP
# PHOTOS COURTESY OF PROCORE CHAMPIONSHIP
From October 12-15, golf fans gathered to follow the 2024 Procore Championship, hosted at the prestigious Silverado Resort. Californiabased Procore Technologies, Inc., a leading global provider of construction management software, was the tournament's title sponsor. Enthusiastic fans and captivated spectators had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind PGA TOUR event hosted among the beautiful backdrop of Napa Valley wine country. Patton Kizzire won the Procore Championship, closing with a 2-under-par 70 and holding off the field in the first event of the PGA Tour's FedExCup Fall. He won by a commanding five-shot margin over David Lipsky, shooting a 20-under-par 268 total for the week. // www.procorechampionship.com
30TH ANNUAL ONE MIND MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR BRAIN HEALTH
# PHOTOS BY FLYING PIG
The 30th Annual Music Festival for Brain Health brought together science, philanthropy, and entertainment leaders on September 7th to celebrate three decades of mental health innovation, raising $3.5M to support mental health solutions. Hosted by the Staglin Family at the Staglin Family Vineyard and presented by Bank of America and Bristol Myers Squibb, the festival marked 30 years of groundbreaking mental health research, discovery, and innovation. Over 400 guests gathered for the event, featuring Governor Gavin Newsom, Congressman Mike Thompson, American singer Elle King, the Science & Innovation Symposium, and the Annual Rising Star Awards. More than 70 local wineries donated their time and wine to the festivities during a wine tasting that’s come to be known as the best in Napa Valley. // www.onemind.org
ICONS OF NAPA VALLEY CELEBRATION
# PHOTOS BY MIRIAM CARBÓ AMORÓS
OLE Health Foundation Women’s Icons of Napa Valley Luncheon on October 11th was a unique gathering hosted at the Rutherford House in Rutherford, CA. The intimate venue celebrated women who have made their mark in business, philanthropy, and healthcare in Napa Valley. Featured icons were Cindy Pawlcyn of Mustards Grill, Robin Lail of Lail Vineyards, and Dr. Lynette Leighton of CommuniCare+OLE. Attendees, who included Gillian Balance of Treasury Wine Estates, Naoko and Maya Dalla Valle of Dalla Valle Vineyards, Sarah Hansen of Model Bakery, Stacy Jacobs, Amanda Phelps, and Jennifer Waitte of Tamber Bey Vineyards, were also treated to an exclusive pop-up by Parisian jeweler Messika. // www.olehealth.org
NV Calendar
Upcoming Parties, Concerts, Celebrations and Events
Event dates subject to change. Please check event websites for current schedules.
November 24 – January 1 HOLIDAYS IN YOUNTVILLE
Holidays in Yountville takes place over six weeks, November 24 – January 1, and includes a full calendar of events, holiday gift guide, and more. Stroll through town and celebrate the season in the Brightest Town in Napa Valley. Over the six weeks, the celebration includes a full calendar of events, a holiday gift guide, and a holiday light tour.
www.yountville.com/events/ holidays-in-yountville/
December 14
INSPIRE WINTER WINE AND FOOD FÊTE
Kerrin Laz hosts the 6th Annual Inspire Wine and Food Fête on December 14. This event is part two of the Inspire Napa Valley series, supporting Laz’s mission to raise funds for the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. Ticketed guests attend a worldclass VIP lunch and auction at the CIA at Greystone, curated by Laz, and access to
tastings of some of Napa’s premier wines, vintners, and winemakers.
www.inspirenapavalley.org
January
NAPA NEIGHBOR MONTH
Get neighborly with Napa Valley wineries this January. For 2025, select Napa Valley wineries are extending Napa Neighbor Week to “Napa Neighbor Month” to include all of Napa’s California neighbors. From January 1st to the 31st, select Napa vintners will extend their “locals-only” deal to anyone who lives in California. Anyone with a valid California state ID can take advantage of offers that locals get year-round! View winery offers during Napa Neighbor Month online.
www.napaneighbor.com
January
NAPA VALLEY
RESTAURANT MONTHTM
During Napa Valley’s Restaurant Month, world-class restaurants in each city of Napa will own a dedicated week to offer
inventive epicurean meals and experiences. Celebrate the gastronomy of Napa Valley with this showcase of premium ingredients and farm-fresh produce curated and presented by talented chefs. Napa Valley Restaurant MonthTM is one of the best times to explore and enjoy all the culinary delights in Napa Valley. View participating restaurants and offers on the website. // Jan. 6 – 12: American Canyon and the City of Napa // Jan. 13 – 19: Yountville // Jan. 20 – 26: St. Helena // Jan 27 – Feb 2: Calistoga www.visitnapavalley.com/restaurant-month
January
17 – 20
NAPA VALLEY TRUFFLE FESTIVAL
Experience the magic of truffles while savoring some of the finest truffle cuisine in the world, paired with magnificent wines amidst the splendor of world-class Napa wineries. Learn firsthand how to work and cook with truffles from the best Michelin star/master chefs. Explore a working truffle orchard, see where and
how truffles are harvested, and meet the trained truffle dogs who find them (petting allowed). Added Bonus: The ultra-fresh Napa/Sonoma harvested Périgord black truffles will be available for the first time.
www.napatrufflefestival.com
January 18 – February 16
NAPA LIGHTED ART FESTIVAL
Celebrate art after dark! The Napa Lighted Art Festival is back in 2025, bringing a celebration of creative arts, technology, and lights. The popular five-week-long event offers residents and visitors innovative, immersive, and interactive light and light technologies that showcase the beauty and uniqueness of downtown Napa and its historic architecture. This walkable outdoor experience is free and open to the public. Open Sun – Thu 6-9pm and Fri – Sat 6-10pm. Check the City of Napa website for a map and times for the projection art installations.
www.cityofnapa.org/689/ Napa-Lighted-Art-Festival
January 30 – February 2
YOUNTVILLE INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
The 8th Annual Yountville International Short Film Festival (YISFF) returns to Yountville. The fourday event presents a curated, imagination-stretching selection of short films from across the globe. The event includes special musical guests, winery events, and filmmaker Q&A sessions. Sponsored by the Town of Yountville. Individual, VIP, and All Access Passes are available for purchase online.
www.yisff.com
January – March
NAPA VALLEY MUSTARD CELEBRATION
The Napa Valley Mustard Celebration is a valley-wide three-month annual event from January to March. From American Canyon to Calistoga, each city hosts special seasonal events in honor of Insta-worthy mustard season, when yellow flowers blanket the valley. Get up-to-date information on offerings and events online.
www.napavalleymustardcelebration.com
Inside Track
What the Locals are Doing
Zuzu’s Paella To Go
Napa Valley’s favorite Spanish-inspired tapas restaurant offers its famous paella to go! Whether it be the Zuzu Paella (seafood and meat), the Arros Negra (seafood), or the Vegetarian Paella, guests can order the sumptuous rice dish for 2–10 people through their carry-out window – Hanks’s Takeaway – as well as select tapas and a nice selection of adult beverages. Open Wed-Sun 12–9pm // 823 MAIN ST., NAPA • WWW.HANKSTAKEAWAYNAPA.COM
SoFi District Friday Nights
Hang out with the fun and funky businesses in SoFi on Friday Nights between 5 and 7pm and enjoy happy hour specials–wine tastings with cheese, discounts on beer and wines by the glass or bottle, music–vinyl or DJ, and other surprises. Weekly specials from Be Bubbly, Benevolent Neglect, Jeffries General, Maison Fayard, Gamling & McDuck, and Folklore, to name a few, are posted on Instagram. // SOUTH OF FIRST STREET ON 2ND AND 3RD WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ NAPASOFIDISTRICT/
Galpão Gaucho
Happy Hour
Belly up to the bar and enjoy 20% off a selection of bar plates (grilled picanha, lamb chops, salmon, shrimp, and chicken), along with $9 specialty cocktails, select wines, and $6 beer (varies). Happy hour prices are available 4–6:30pm Mon–Fri and 3–6pm Sunday // 1990 TROWER AVE., NAPA • WWW.GALPAOGAUCHOUSA.COM
Calistoga Depot
Locals Night
Locals and Industry guests get special treatment at the Calistoga Depot on Monday nights. Along with cocktail specials at the First Millionaires Saloon Train car, happy hour lasts all night with discounted drinks and $3 beers. Football fans can catch the Monday night games, and for those who wish to party on, there’s a live DJ from 7 to 10pm. // 1458 LINCOLN AVE., CALISTOGA WWW.CALISTOGADEPOT.COM
Annie’s Lunch Box
Opened this past spring, family-owned and operated Annie’s Lunch Box is the creation of long-time resident Annie Rangel’s delicious specialty and build-your-own sandwiches and specialties, including some of Vallargas favorite sandwich recipes, Spinach Dip, and croutons from her 22-year years of employment with the beloved Napa store. The popular food truck can be found Fri-Mon on Clay Street east of Jefferson from 11am–2pm. Catering services also available. // WWW.ANNIESLUNCHBOX.INFO WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ANNIESLUNCHBOXNAPA/
Spend a Day in
AMERICAN CANYON
Those from outside Napa Valley may not be familiar with American Canyon, but it is part of Napa County, and for those who live and work here, it’s an important place — it’s where we go for cheap eats, ethnic cuisine of every kind, and to take care of many of our basic needs in the way of shopping, getting things fixed, and the like.
American Canyon is a community of the wine country’s worker bees, and as such, it is replete with great schools and has less of a tourist vibe. It also has some hidden gem dining options — with no pretense.
For those who’ve not made it down to the southernmost part of the county, know that there are many wonderful things not to be missed, and for Bay Area visitors en route to wine country by car, American Canyon is a great spot to grab a bite, shop and do a bit of foraging.
Start the day with breakfast or lunch at the South Kelly Grill, open daily, a favorite of locals and down-home with great breakfast basics — the fresh crab omelets are to die for, as are the pancakes and waffles, though when ordering, know that the pancakes are the size of a frisbee. Also yummy are all their variations on eggs Benedict. Other tasty breakfast fare can be found at Le Paris Artisan & Gourmet Café, which offers a worldly spin on mouthwatering pastries, desserts and sandwiches, and has some of the best viennoiserie in Napa County. The Eagle Grill at the Eagle Vines Golf Club offers a more relaxed dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a panorama of the golf course and vineyards.
After breakfast, head to the NapaVallejo Flea Market. This communitycentric open-air market is loaded with great bargains, new and used items, household items, clothing, cowboy boots, jewelry, and antiques — pretty much something for everyone. There is also
NVL things to do
produce, prepared foods, and a line-up of food trucks. It’s fun, a bit campy, and there is always a “must-find” among the 100+ booths.
For those wanting exercise, the Newell Open Space, the Wetlands Edge Park, and Glass Beach are worthwhile destinations for walking and hiking. The Newell loop trails are 10.3 and 5.3 miles long, while the Wetlands Edge Park trail is just 2.8 miles long, with beautiful views of water and wetland grasses, reeds, and sedges and a diversity of
patio. This Vietnamese-owned winery specializes in unique varietals and Asianinspired food pairings.
Grab lunch or dinner at one of the spots Napa County locals haunt on their days off. Some of the best Vietnamese food in the North Bay can be had at Pho Huong Viet, with its wide range of pho, rice and vermicelli plates with assorted meats, and an array of traditional appetizers. Bonito Poke is known for its Hawaiian-themed menu and consistently garners favorable reviews. Order the generously served fried shrimp, poke nachos, loco moco, BBQ beef, poke bowls with all the usual toppings, refreshing lemonade, fruit juices, and Thai iced tea. There is no shortage of fine Mexican eateries in
waterfowl. Bring a picnic and a pair of binoculars to enjoy the bucolic scenery. Not to miss is nearby Glass Beach, where currents have washed up piles of sand-washed broken glass. On a sunny day, the colors and textures on this beach are exquisite.
Locals often make a special trip to the Mid-City Nursery to find plants, flowers, herbs, and vegetables. This massive facility has a vast selection of indoor and outdoor plants for flower borders, native gardens, potted herbs, and vegetable patches— beautiful, healthy plants and highly knowledgeable staff.
For the golfer, the Chardonnay and Eagle Vines Golf Clubs are public courses with premier greens and scenery galore. After an invigorating 18 holes, consider relaxing at the nearby RD Winery, with its chic tasting room and comfortable outdoor
American Canyon. Dos Botellas is a local favorite for its flavorful food and lively ambiance. In addition to all their traditional Mexican fare is an assortment of margaritas, beers, and horchata.
Off-the-charts delicious, and well worth the drive to American Canyon from anywhere, is the award-winning LASO, a beloved spot for food enthusiasts. Nepalese owner/chef Ming incorporates fresh, locally sourced ingredients into traditional Himalayan/Nepalese recipes passed down through his family. Favorite dishes include the Momo (steamed chicken, beef, or vegetable dumplings) and Thenthuk (handpulled noodle soup.)
Whether it’s a stop on a journey in or out of wine country or a local side trip, American Canyon has many hidden attractions that are well worth the trip.
NAPA
VALLEY Dressed in Holiday Style
As the air turns crisp and the vineyards settle into winter dormancy, the Napa Valley transforms into a picturesque holiday wonderland. The festive season within the region’s wineries and tasting rooms is a time of magic, warmth, and celebration. A visit during this time of year offers a different wine-country experience— one filled with charm, culinary delights, and, of course, exquisite wines. Hall
During the winter months, Napa Valley’s rolling hills, typically adorned with lush green vines, take on a quiet, tranquil ambiance. It’s an idyllic setting for a cozy getaway with fewer tourists compared to the bustling summer and harvest season. Although outdoor tastings may be limited due to cooler temperatures, winter brings its own charms, such as spectacular holiday décor.
Many Napa wineries go all-out for the holidays, and an evening cruise along Highway 29 or the Silverado Trail at this time of the year is to be rewarded with the sight of brightly lit exteriors and illuminated landscapes. At Hall Napa Valley, iconic Bunny Foo Foo rises from the vineyard, donning holiday gear. At Cuvaison in the Carneros AVA, the vineyards are carpeted in twinkle lights nearly as far as the eye
can see. A projection light show makes Flora Springs’ St. Helena tasting room and its undulating architecture more whimsical than ever. Even the Napa Valley Wine Train gets into the spirit with its wreathadorned locomotive. Step inside any number of tasting rooms to find additional holiday spirit. Twinkling lights, garlands, ornaments, and wine bottle trees create a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and enjoy.
And each of Napa’s distinct towns features their own style of celebration. Calistoga is home to the popular annual Lighted Tractor Parade, a Holiday Village, and a Christmas Faire. In St. Helena, one
will find the spectacular Beringer Vineyards 36-foot holiday barrel tree and 26-foot sparkling lighted snowflake. Yountville, billed as the “Brightest Town in Napa” due to its seasonal glow, features special wine tastings and make-and-take-crafting. And the town of Napa features the Merry Meritage Holiday Ice Skating Rink and the annual Christmas Parade featuring Santa Claus as the guest of honor.
Whether sipping a glass of Cabernet or indulging in gourmet pairings, being in Napa around the holidays, surrounded by twinkling lights and yuletide festivities, adds a little touch of magic to a wine country visit.
Merry Meritage
As the largest resort in Napa, The Meritage Resort and Spa is always aglow. But come the holiday season, The Meritage dazzles and sparkles.
This year marks the fourth consecutive season of the resort’s Merry Meritage programming, bringing with it a sprawling outdoor ice skating rink, an enchanting winter village centered by a 40-foot tree, and daily “snow” showers.
As in its past iterations, Merry Meritage will offer daily activities during its official popup dates—this year runs from November 18 to January 11—but also special happenings throughout the season, beginning with the first all-ages event, which took place on November 23: the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Several thousand people came together to celebrate the evening, complete with live music, igloos, festive foods, and ice skating performances.
Other exclusive experiences include Storytime with Santa, which is only offered on Saturdays and Sundays through December 22. Merry Meritage On Ice by Redwood Ice Theatre Company will showcase “Olympic-style stunts,” according to the property, but only on November 23, December 21, and January 4. Princesses Belle, Elena, Jasmine, and Isabela will make
appearances at kid-friendly high tea and story time on December 7, 14, 21, and 28.
At the property’s newly opened Ember Steak—which opened this past summer to instant local acclaim for its selection of Library Cuts, including a 20-day aged Porterhouse, 14-20 day aged New York Strip, and A5 Miyazaki Japanese Wagyu— guests can reserve a table for Christmas or New Year’s Eve. There will also be holiday dining reservations available in the ballrooms, which will be a highlight for the most prominent meals of the holiday season, including Thanksgiving Brunch and Christmas Dinner.
“Due to our size and location at the gateway to the valley, The Meritage is
perfectly suited to be Napa’s host for the holidays. We wanted to create a magical destination that would draw visitors from afar and serve as a gathering place for our surrounding community,” said The Meritage’s managing director, Joe Leinacker, who emphasized that their holiday season programming is not just for out-of-towners.
“Many of our returning locals are booking a night at the resort this year so they have more time to experience all the events. We have staycation packages that include unlimited ice skating and winter village view rooms for the first time for the ultimate holiday escape,” he said.
The season’s festivities culminate with an expanded New Year’s Eve Party, previously hosted in a single ballroom with a live band. To usher in 2025, The Meritage is adding a second ballroom with a DJ. The events will be ticketed separately, or guests can opt for the experience of both with a Party Hopper ticket that allows them to bop between ballrooms for an unforgettable evening. Heads Up: Book early as this party consecutively sells out (hence the additional venue this year).
Tonewood & Courage
Part retail store/ part performance venue, Tonewood & Courage brings music to downtown Napa’s First Street Shops space. For local musicians, the retail store sells acoustic and electric guitars, basses, ukeleles, accessories, and instrument services such as restringing and rebuilding. For those wanting to listen to music, the space opens up in the evenings for live singer/songwriter music performances (Americana, Folk, Bluegrass, etc.), complete with pizza and a liquor license–making it accessible for all ages. Future plans include ‘Campfire Night,’ a community strum-along session where local musicians can bring their instruments and learn to play a pre-posted list of songs. Open Tues–Sat 10am–3pm and Sunday 11am–3pm.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1300 First St. # 212, Napa www.tonewoodandcourage.com
Ohm Coffee Roasters
After 8+ years as a roaster offering subscrip tion, wholesale, and event/truck-based pop-up sales, Ohm Coffee Roasters has opened their first brick-and-mortar location at 1412 Second St., Napa. In addition to a full espresso menu, Ohm offers a pour-over bar featuring their blends, a rotating selection of single origins, and seasonal specials. Their “Amplified drink Menu” amps up the body healthfully, with a minimum of added sugars and other inflammation-causing ingredients such as Mushroom Adaptogen, Turmeric/golden milk, a selection of matchas, and a CBD add-on to any drink. Open Mon–Fri am–2 pm, and on weekends from 8am–2pm.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1412 Second St., Napa www.ohmcoffee.com
The River Club
Napa Valley’s Tannery District welcomes The River Club, a collaborative wine-tasting space hosted by two familyowned wineries, Belong Wine Co. and Paper Planes Wine Co. Located along the Napa River (just a stone’s throw from downtown), this hidden gem offers epic river views and a refreshingly modern tasting experience. Tasting options include three flights from both vintners in a laid-back setting- all hosted by the winemakers and owners. Mon / Thurs / Fri: 11am – 4pm and Sat / Sun: 12pm–5pm. Reservations recommended.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: 101 S. Coombs St., #18, Napa www.theriverclubnapa.com
Bella Union Winery
The stunning Bella Union Winery recently opened in St. Helena, showcasing its creative blends under the direction of Winemaker Brooke Bobyak. The wine selection includes debut releases focusing on small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon blends and aromatic white wines. With its landscape-driven design, the two-story winery touts both indoor and outdoor tasting areas as a sequence of cascading spaces, each enclave evoking a different vibe. From jovial and lively to serious and moody, guests will find the perfect setting to suit any mood, palate, or budget with five distinct tastings, each celebrating creativity and a sense of connection to create an ideal harmony of wine, people, and place.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: 1695 St. Helena Hwy., St. Helena www.bellaunionwinery.comm
1331 Cocktails
Chuck Meyers and Micheal Holcomb launched their newest venture, 1331 Cocktails, in the prior Ox & Fox location on downtown Napa’s First Street. The new concept is to bring an elevated cocktail experience to guests, with unique twists on familiar drinks–all enhanced with a personal touch. Under the direction of bar manager Dante Javar, each cocktail creation is enhanced and manipulated with unique ingredients to make something as simple as a Manhattan solely their creation. The dark and swanky space exudes a metropolitan vibe, evoking a true nightlife scene to downtown Napa—a place to dance and mingle into the late night hours. Open M–Thu 4pm–1:30am and Fri–Sun from noon–1:30am.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: @1331cocktail First & Franklin Sts., Napa
Napa Zero Proof Tours
Experience Napa with a “zero-proof twist.” Napa Zero Proof Tours offers the region’s first non-alcoholic tour experience in wine country. Whether reducing alcohol intake, abstaining, or simply curious, Napa Zero Proof Tours takes guests to Napa’s best restaurants, bars, and retailers, where they can enjoy a range of non-alcoholic mocktails, beers, wines, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. While small bites are available at select spots, each stop is designed to offer a unique zero-proof tasting experience, highlighting flavor and craftsmanship. Tours are customized for groups or solo explorers. FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.napazeroprooftours.com
CREATIONS FINE JEWELERS
A Gem in the Heart of Napa
BY FRAN MILLER | PHOTOS BY BOB MCCLENAHAN
Nestled in the heart of Napa’s vibrant wine country, where cherished moments are celebrated, Creations Fine Jewelers has become more than a jewelry store—it’s a place where life’s most meaningful memories are transformed into timeless treasures.
For nearly 50 years, Creations Fine Jewelers has served as a “go-to” for celebrating engagements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and other significant milestones. Its customers rely on the family-run jewelry store for the items and gifts that mark life’s big and small moments.
Creations Fine Jewelers owners Melissa and Brian Doughty appreciate the importance of these milestones and their store’s significance in helping customers commemorate meaningful events. The duo understands that jewelry is not merely a commodity but a symbol of emotion and memory. It is this awareness that has created a tradition cherished across generations. Many customers recount stories of visiting Creations with their parents or grandparents, creating a multi-generational bond that ties them to the store. For them, shopping at Creations Fine Jewelers is a poignant journey, where each piece purchased carries with it a tale, a memory, and a legacy.
The store was founded in 1976 by Melvin Greenberg, whose daughter Judith DalCielo was instrumental in its success. With a passion for stones and gems, Judith became the store’s jewelry designer, and by the 1980s, she had developed a loyal following. Success
then led to a larger location at Bel Air Plaza, and during the 90s, with the addition of luxurious ready-to-wear pieces, the store was thriving, necessitating the need for a full-time sales associate. Judith hired Brian, who would eventually become her son-in-law. Brian married Melissa, Judith’s youngest daughter, in 2002. With their shared passion for fine jewelry, the duo—both of them born and raised Napans—has led the continued growth and success of what has been known through the years as Creations By You, Creations By You Fine Jewelers, and the current, simplified, Creations Fine Jewelers. Now located in its newly remodeled, stand-alone building in northern Napa, the showroom is worth a visit. “Step into our spacious, natural lightfilled showroom, where elegantly presented displays in each case invite you to explore everything from timeless diamonds to the newest designer creations,” said Melissa. “Our expansion ensures an intimate, personalized shopping experience, with easy access to the finest jewelry and OMEGA timepieces. We’ve provided a facelift inside and outside and expanded the interior to 2,000 square feet of spectacular showroom. And we have plenty of parking, which is scarce in Napa.”
Whether it’s a custom engagement ring or a personalized gift for a loved one, the process at Creations is collaborative and engaging. Customers sit down with experts to discuss their vision, leading to a piece that resonates deeply with personal significance.
While the name has changed through the years, the commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellent customer service has remained the same. Creations Fine Jewelers carries top-quality brands such as Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Fope, family-owned high-jewelry brands Picchiotti and Piranesi, Hearts on Fire, Ippolita, and historic American brand
A. Jaffe, founded in 1892. “You can’t go wrong with a classic diamond piece, like earrings or bracelets,” said Melissa. “We create pendants and necklaces that are like magical beacons—little lights around the neck, close to the heart.” Melissa
attend the COUTURE show in Las Vegas which features the world’s most exceptional curation of designer fine jewelry and luxury timepieces. There, they carefully evaluate new brands, assessing what their customers might like. “Quality is extremely important to us. Our pieces and their craftsmanship are exceptional.”
Beyond offering the finest designer brands, what truly sets Creations Fine Jewelers apart—and one of its defining features—is its dedication to crafting custom jewelry that speaks to the unique stories of each customer. Judith was known for her custom designs, and Melissa and Brian have maintained this commitment to craftsmanship. Creations Fine Jewelers is backed by a talented team
and Brian take particular pride in their in-store OMEGA boutique, which showcases a wide selection of these iconic luxury timepieces. OMEGA, famously worn by James Bond, was the first watch on the moon and has been the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games since 1932. Having an OMEGA boutique within their store is a true testament to Creations Fine Jewelers’ reputation, as brands like OMEGA rigorously vet their distributors. “Acquiring a brand like OMEGA is no small feat,” said Melissa, who meticulously curates the exceptional brands carried at Creations Fine Jewelers. “It can be quite a rigorous process to acquire a brand,” Melissa explained. She and Brian annually
of artisans who appreciate that jewelry is an expression of art, carefully designed to meet each customer’s unique desires.
“We have an expert jeweler working in-house to handle immediate custom needs and intricate repairs, and we collaborate with master goldsmiths who also specialize in bringing more elaborate, creative designs to life,” said Brian. “These creators work closely with us to ensure that each piece reflects the highest standards of artistry and precision.”
Whether it’s a custom engagement ring or a personalized gift for a loved one, the process at Creations is collaborative and engaging. Customers sit down with experts to discuss their vision, leading to a piece
that resonates deeply with personal significance. In addition to its individual client projects, Creations has fashioned bespoke pieces for local wineries and restaurants, the ownership of which gifts the items to staff for milestone moments.
Melissa and Brian are in their shop daily and often on the floor along with their dedicated staff members, greeting
just one of the many ways we show our gratitude to the customers who make our work so meaningful.”
“Brian and Melissa are the kindest, most genuine people I know,” said loyal customer Sheri, who met the Doughtys more than five years ago when casually walking by their store. “I was impressed by my first encounter with Brian, who
“By choosing Creations Fine Jewelers, you’re not only investing in exquisite craftsmanship but also supporting a family-owned business deeply rooted in Napa’s community.”
customers with warm smiles and genuine interest. When customers choose to shop at Creations Fine Jewelers, they are not just making a purchase; they are supporting a business that values community well-being and growth. The couple is committed to giving back and actively participates in local events and initiatives. This sense of community involvement reinforces the store’s status as a local gem—literally and figuratively.
“By choosing Creations Fine Jewelers, you’re not only investing in exquisite craftsmanship but also supporting a family-owned business deeply rooted in Napa’s community,” said Brian. “Our commitment to local causes and events is
was personable, approachable, and more interested in creating a relationship than he was in just “making the sale.” Our lives are a series of experiences, and Creations Fine Jewelers is proud to be a part of those life experiences.”
Clearly more than just a jewelry store, Creations Fine Jewelers is a cornerstone of the Napa community, woven into the fabric of its history and identity. With a commitment to craftsmanship, customization, community engagement, and quality service, it has earned the trust and loyalty of its customers. As Napa continues to grow and evolve, Creations Fine Jewelers remains a shimmering example of how a family-owned business can enrich a community, one cherished piece of jewelry at a time. Shopping at Creations is not just about acquiring jewelry; it’s about being part of a legacy that celebrates love, life, and community.
“We warmly invite you to visit our newly remodeled showroom and explore the collections that have touched the hearts of generations,” said Melissa and Brian. “For nearly 50 years, we’ve helped our community celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. Whether you’re looking for a timeless piece to mark a milestone or something uniquely yours, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. Come experience the warmth, beauty, and craftsmanship that make Creations Fine Jewelers ‘Where Napa Valley Gets Engaged™.’ We look forward to welcoming you.”
Most Intriguing 2024 NAPA VALLEY'S
“To be intriguing is to invite curiosity and spark fascination.”
– Unknown
The 2024 LIST
The following pages contain Napa Valley Life’s 23rd annual list of Napa Valley’s most Intriguing People—residents whose interesting backgrounds and stories have made them stand out in the community and who are worth getting to know.
INTRIGUING PROFILES BY CHRIS ANDREWS
ANDREW ALLISON
CEO AND CO-FOUNDER -CUVÉE
Navigating Napa Valley with A Native
Andrew Allison and the team at Cuvée are Napa natives, born and raised, and what could be better for a company whose goal is to guide visitors to the best the region has to offer? With Cuvee's easy-to-use app, navigating options and booking a wine country adventure is a breeze.
Allison’s roots in Napa Valley run deep, his family having planted cabernet sauvignon grapes in the Atlas Peak AVA during the 1980s. He is a down-home boy at heart, graduating from Napa High School and working the gamut of jobs in wine country. Allison completed a B.S. at Sonoma State University with honors, concentrating on wine business strategies and finance, and was later accepted into their wine executive MBA program. Allison has also received his WSET2 wine accreditation.
In 2009, with friends, Allison built his first app, Barspace.tv, which was subsequently sold to a liquor distributor in 2011 — this important developmental work was done before he joined Vungle as a member of their founding team, worked for Ogury in London, Berlin, and Paris, and then cofounded Gawkbox in Seattle. Shortly thereafter, Allison began conceptualizing Cuvée in conjunction with fellow Vungle alum, Daniele Delgrosso, who would also become a Cuvée co-founder. Allison and Delgrosso are excited about the app and believe it will better help visitors navigate Napa Valley.
With well over 400 wineries in the county, and dozens of resorts, hotels, and restaurants, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to the region and feel confident that the choices and reservations made best meet expectations and needs. Allison’s app seeks to bridge that gap by pooling information on venues and tourist-related businesses and services, whereby visitors can be directed to their most appropriate options.
Allison is bullish about the impacts Cuvee will have on the region. “Our business is about supporting other local businesses by guiding visitors (and locals, too) to all the amazing activities Napa Valley has to offer. Our goal is to bring 75,000 groups of visitors to Napa wineries in 2025, resulting in business for all other services and activities in the region.”
www.cuveeapp.com
by Cody Krantz
IN MEMORIAM (1936 – 2024)
HOWARD BACKEN
ARCHITECT
Architecture That Defined the Napa Lifestyle
Howard Backen’s architecture springboarded an entire movement that would become known as the Napa Lifestyle. His iconic structures in the region meld sophistication and intelligent design with thoughtful orientation and natural materials that perfectly suit Napa Valley’s inspiring vistas while also paying homage to its historical agricultural structures and farmhouses. Yet Backen’s architecture goes well beyond, pointing to the region’s evolution from mixed agriculture to viticulture and the more sophisticated lifestyle that entails.
Classic examples of Backen’s work in Napa Valley can be found at BOND Wine, the Napa Valley Reserve, the boathouse for Rudd Estate’s tasting room, and at both Harlan Estate and Promontory Wine.
Backen’s connection to Napa Valley ran deep, and he made it his home for many years. He was inspired by the land, the temperate climate, the beautiful scenery, and the valley’s unique ecology. He believed in the importance of outdoor living and being connected to the environment. In that, he walked the walk — enjoying outdoor cooking, dining, socializing, sleeping, and showering amongst the trees.
However, in later years, Backen and his wife and business partner, Ann Ernish-Backen, branched out to Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Montecito, and they continued to return to Napa Valley. Ann said, “Napa Valley has always been home for us, and it holds a special place in our hearts, but in 2018, Howard and I felt it was time to expand our vision beyond the valley and to carry our philosophy and lifestyle to new locations.”
Backen inspired many leaders in the industry, such as architect Tom Kundig, for his openness and collaborative methods, and he left behind a legacy of people he mentored. Over his 65-year career, numerous architects and designers would work for and with Backen, his influence spawning numerous other award-winning firms, such as AD100 with renowned interior designer Nicole Hollis.
Backen was honored to receive the Presidential Award for Design Excellence and the Lawrence Medal, which is given out annually to distinguished alums by the University of Oregon’s College of Design.
www.backenarch.com
DARRYL BELL
EXECUTIVE CHEF AND CO-OWNER
STATELINE ROAD SMOKEHOUSE
Smokin’ Hot Kansas City BBQ Comes to Napa
Darryl
Bell got his start as a chef when, at the age of 8, he took over much of the cooking for his mother, who was working hard to support a household of six. The meals at their home consisted of simple staples, a favorite being lentils and hot water cornbread. Bell loved this job — the responsibility of it. Cooking gave him confidence, and it was a game of sorts — his goal was to make things taste good every time he cooked.
Age 14 was a formative year for Bell; it was the year he first watched Great Chefs of the World. Seeing chefs in action, making their best entrées, set Bell’s imagination on fire. Also during that year, Bell was asked to do his first BBQ — for twenty people. Four months in advance, he planned out the menu and began trying out the techniques he would use. The writing was on the wall; Bell was going to be a chef.
Bell went to culinary school, followed by a stint in France, where he did formal training in pastry-making. Bell was ready to take his next step, or as was the case, a giant leap. His roommate at the time talked about working for Thomas Keller, and as Bell thought about that, he decided to go for it — why not start his career by working for the very best in his field?
In 2009, Bell moved to California to work for Bouchon Bistro. Not only did he hold his own in their kitchen, he became the executive sous chef. Bell would go on to work for other prestigious restaurants in the region, most recently as chef de cuisine for Press.
As Bell worked for Press, he began to conceptualize a restaurant of his own, one that would be recession and pandemicproof, with a price point for families — a place where he could showcase his distinctive BBQ. Stateline Road Smokehouse was born, and its much-anticipated opening was on August 8, 2024. Chef Bell and partner Jeremy Threat’s new venture has received rave reviews, which have fueled the company’s already large following. www.stateline-road.com
PEDRO CEJA
CO-FOUNDER // CEJA VINEYARDS
Family, Food & Wine
AMELIA CEJA
PRESIDENT // CEJA VINEYARDS Amelia
and Pedro Ceja are pillars of Napa Valley’s wine community and leaders in a growing sector of wine consumers and producers — Hispanics. They are also the founders of the prestigious Mexican American Vintners Association, whose mission is to promote and support the contributions of MexicanAmericans in the wine industry and to support education in the Hispanic community. The Cejas represent all that is good about working in this region — the tenacity of the vineyard and cellar workforce, the skills and drive of immigrants that energize the industry, and the realization of lifelong dreams, owning a piece of the land and having a meaningful stake in the region’s winemaking.
Ceja Vineyards was established in 1999 by Amelia, Pedro, Armando, and Martha Ceja and has become popular not only with locals but nationally, thanks to the marketing efforts of president and co-founder Amelia Ceja and her team. Ceja is the first Mexican-American woman to launch a winery in the valley in conjunction with important partners. She has been featured on the media circuit, on Ted Talks and PBS, in the New York
Times, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, Gastronomique en Vogue, and more. With over 100 blog videos, Ceja draws viewers into the wine culture of Napa Valley but with a Hispanic bend, sharing Mexican recipes that pair beautifully with her winery’s varietals and engaging in conversations that shed light on the rich Mexican culture that inspires and enhances all of wine country. Amelia has won numerous awards for her efforts, including being named “Woman of the Year” by the California legislature, “Business Woman of the Year” by the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and “Most Outstanding Female Leader, Innovator and Visionary in the Wine Field,” by the North Bay Business Journal.
Pedro’s role in the winery’s success, while less public, is equally important — helping with label and packaging design, conceptualizing future facility design, and acting as a visionary. The Ceja family works as a team in all they do, and it is in this spirit they are able to envision a long and prosperous future for Ceja Vineyards.
www.cejavineyards.com
CINTHYA CISNEROS
OWNER, LA CHEVE BAKERY AND BREWS
Sharing The Good Life with Family and Community
La Cheve Bakery and Brews is all about comfort — a comfortable setting with beautiful décor, rustic wood furnishings, and attentive, accommodating staff. And then there’s the food, both savory and sweet – which is out of this world.
Cinthya Cisneros described her vision for La Cheve: “I want my customers to feel like they are back at grandma’s house in Mexico.” Mission accomplished. Folks must love visiting “grandma” because La Cheve is always packed and is now one of Napa’s favorite eateries, filling a need for great breakfast and lunch fare.
Cisneros and her parents are from La Piedad, Michoacan, in Mexico, and Cisneros was raised in Napa from 1994. Both parents worked hard outside the home, doing every kind of job to ensure their family could live the American Dream. Cisneros graduated from Vintage High School and then went on to study chemistry at Sonoma State. Her first inclination post-graduation was to enter the field of pathology, a career she did take on, though this avocation was a bit too intense for her temperament. So, Cisneros channeled her skills toward teaching chemistry at River City HS in West Sacramento. It was during that time when Cisneros came home on weekends that she and her father started their hobby of making beer. The family also enjoyed food-making and long philosophical discussions, and her mother, Juana, also loved baking and was exceptional at it. Juana was always nervous about making conchas, as hers tasted different than those of others, but those who enjoyed them found them to be the best they’d ever had.
Before long, Cisneros was envisioning ways to pool all their talents. She wanted to take activities the family loved doing together and somehow weave them into a viable business, essentially doing for her parents what they had done for her. It was in this spirit of passing on the American Dream that La Cheve was born.
La Cheve and Cisneros perpetuate this legacy by supporting organizations that help people find their version of the American Dream. Favorite organizations: If Given a Chance, 10,000 Degrees scholarships, and the Napa County Hispanic Network.
www.ilovelacheve.com
NAOKO DALLA VALLE
FOUNDER, FARMER, AND PROPRIETOR
DALLA VALLE VINEYARDS
Achieving Balance In All Things
Perched on the second floor of her winery, Dalla Valle Vineyards’ founding owner, Naoko Dalla Valle, sits at a commanding table in a room spare on décor but rich in details. The setting affords the objets d’art in the space the opportunity to be cherished fully. Floral arrangements draw the eye to each bloom’s attributes through balance and economy, and the vineyards and natural vista beyond share like symmetry.
Naoko Dalla Valle is that perfect blend of Japanese sensibility and practicality, and the passion and artistic bend that is part of all that is European in her life, including her late Italian husband, Gustav, and the wine culture and techniques that he and their daughter brought from Italy and France. Dalla Valle, a stong, selfconfident woman, has never been clearer about what she wants to accomplish in her life. Her wines have garnered the highest ratings from major wine publications — from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate to Wine Spectator and Vinous, James Suckling, and Jeb Dunnuck to The Wine Independent. Key characteristics noted are the purity of the fruit, the wine’s complexity, its restraint in style, and its age-ability, all a reflection of the priorities and attention to detail master vintner Dalla Valle puts to her craft.
Dalla Valle grew up in Kobe, Japan, and before meeting her husband, she spent time in Tokyo and London, where she studied art. Late husband, Gustav, grew up in Northern Italy and was also an artist, having studied architecture. Part of their affinity for one another was applying their respective artistic skills to everything they pursued, from their highly successful SCUBAPRO venture to Dalla Valle Vineyards.
Dalla Valle is also passionate about her charitable endeavors, including UCSF’s Brain Tumor Center, Auction Napa Valley, and OLE Health Foundation, for which she is chair. In closing, Dalla Valle expressed this: “I believe wholeheartedly that access to quality healthcare is a basic human right and must be available to all people, regardless of their walk in life.” Dalla Valle’s talents in philanthropy rival those she puts into her award-winning wines.
www.dallavallevineyards.com
BILL DODD
FORMER
STATE SENATOR
Advocate for All in Napa County
Bill Dodd has been looking out for the best interests of Napa Valley his entire career, most recently bringing over $100 million in grants and appropriations to the county during his 10-year stint as a state senator and in the California State Assembly. Dodd’s service to Napa Valley goes much further back — decades, in fact, with his having served on the Napa County Board of Supervisors from 2000 – 2014, acting as Chair of the Local Agency Formation Commission of Napa County, Chair of the Napa County League of Governments, Chair of the Napa County Transportation Planning Agency, and Chair of the Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, among other appointments.
Dodd has also contributed to the community by serving on the boards of Queen of the Valley Hospital Foundation, Justin-Siena High School, Health Care for the Poor, Wolfe Center Youth Drug and Alcohol Center, and the Children’s Health Initiative.
The many grants and direct appropriations Dodd shepherded to the county have benefitted the Boys and Girls Club, wildfire safety programs, and Napa Valley College. Dodd was also instrumental in passing legislation for the county’s farmworker housing, the sale of Skyline Park, initiatives for safety at Napa State Hospital, and numerous local traffic and road projects. At the state level, Dodd gave voice to Napa Valley’s wine industry as co-chair of the Select Committee on California’s Wine Industry, representing tourism and entrepreneurs in addition to wineries and vineyards.
Senator Dodd retired on November 30, 2024, having worked as a public servant for over 24 years. He is without question one of the most prolific lawmakers in California history, having authored 126 bills that were subsequently signed into law, many of which were highly impactful to the region.
Dodd will be retiring in Napa, where he was born and raised. He intends to stay involved in his community, contributing his skills and time to local projects that need doing. Dodd’s greatest concern is investing in the future and setting aside political differences: “What unites us is so much greater than what divides us. I truly believe in our ability to meet the moment and overcome challenges.”
ANGELA DUERR
FOUNDER, CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER
CULTURED
VINE & JUDGMENT OF NAPA
Elevated Experiences in Napa Valley
F or those who would come to Napa Valley for the ultimate, one-of-a-kind experience and to savor the best the valley has to offer, Angela Duerr is the person who can make that happen. Duerr’s Cultured Vine creates custom experiences, marrying the skills of wine experts, travel professionals, chefs, and event designers to create days-long experiences that are exclusive, indulgent, and soulful.
Duerr’s background was in corporate sales and banking, and in 2006-2007, she decided the time was right to make a career change as stock market crashes brought her industry to its knees. Duerr moved to St. Helena, bringing her sales and marketing acumen to the wine industry. She became a consultant, launching and redirecting luxury brands through direct-to-consumer sales while burnishing her knowledge of wine and the region via the local bocce ball courts, weekends at Duckhorn Vineyards, and taking viticulture and enology courses—all of that networking paid off in spades.
Duerr’s new business connections enjoyed staying in touch, consulting with her whenever they planned a trip to the region, knowing she knew where to go and what to do, and trusting her maturity, taste, and intelligence when planning their trip to the area.
These connections would prove to be the portal to Duerr’s next venture, and in 2015, Cultured Vine was born, an agency specializing in curated experiences for those who would stay and make their celebrations in Napa Valley. Duerr noted that her daughter, Danelle, has been instrumental in helping her bring all of this together.
In 2021, Duerr created her most significant experience to date in the “Judgment of Napa,” a wine-tasting competition not unlike the historic “Judgment of Paris.” Patricia Gastaud, one of the organizing forces behind the famous Paris competition and one of its eleven judges, had high praise for Duerr: “The ‘Judgment of Napa’ at Charles Krug Winery was a landmark event for which Angela must take all the credit. By sparing no effort or expense, she succeeded in bringing the torch to Napa.”
MIKE GREENSILL
PIANIST
The Bohemian Amongst Us
Mike Greensill, jazz pianist, arranger, recording artist, and author, is, without question, one of Napa Valley’s most colorful characters, not just because of the intriguing life he’s led but for his exceptional musicianship. After decades of making his way in San Francisco’s bohemian music scene, Greensill now resides in St. Helena, gracing neighbors with his musical artistry.
Greensill emanates from Dursley, a village in the UK. He notes early musical influences in his mother’s piano playing, singing in the church choir, and his many clarinet, piano, and guitar lessons. Childhood music heroes included Jelly Roll Morton and clarinetist Acker Bilk. At age 12, Greensill discovered jazz through recordings by Louis Armstrong and Charlie Parker.
Greensill would go on to study clarinet at Leed’s College, though his teacher was disappointed with his technique, which was going the way of jazz, thus nudging Greensill to switch to arranging. Greensill would soon be invited to play piano at the Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong, an opportunity he could not resist. Among his following were Jewish fans from New York, who would bring back sheet music for him to play on return visits, in the process introducing him to what would become the core of his repertoire — the Great American Songbook — the jazz standards, pop tunes, musical theatre melodies of the mid-20th century.
In 1977, Greensill found his way to San Francisco — a great fit for his musical skills and inclinations, and it was there he connected with renowned singer Wesla Whitfield, his third wife, a loving musical partnership that would endure, the couple recording 20 albums together. Greensill and Whitfield went on to perform at venues throughout New York City and San Francisco, playing for what Greensill describes as “big crowds in small rooms.”
For those wanting to catch some of Greensill’s captivating playing, he hosts a weekly piano concert, “Jazz in the Afternoon,” at 3 pm on Thursdays on his Facebook page and can be found tickling the ivories at The Fink in downtown Napa on the first Wednesday of every month.
www.mikegreensill.com
BARRY MARTIN
CO-FOUNDER, MANAGING DIRECTOR
LUCKY PENNY PRODUCTIONS
The Native and The Expat
WTAYLOR BARTOLUCCI
CO-FOUNDER, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LUCKY PENNY PRODUCTIONS
here to begin with this endlessly entertaining pair? Both have led fascinating lives, have much to say, and have some great platforms to make their declarations. One can find this duo talking all things Napa Valley on “Wine Country Live,” which is broadcast weekdays from 6 -10am on 99.3, The Vine (along with Cara Mae Wooledge), as well as managing, performing, and directing theatre through their Lucky Penny Productions, Napa’s premier theatre company.
Barry Martin hails from Joplin, MO, bringing with him all the intrigue and quirkiness one might expect from a land so far away, while Taylor Bartolucci, a 4th generation Napan, grew up singing in the vineyards of Madonna Estate. Bartolucci had the benefit of a mother willing to drive the extra mile, literally, to take her to voice lessons and acting classes, and productions around the Bay Area, which in turn led to a theatre arts degree from Pepperdine University. Bartolucci would go on to get a Certificate Degree in Viticulture and Enology from U.C. Davis, returning to the family fold to become an integral part of their winery — a multi-generational legacy she feels compelled to preserve for her own children.
In addition to her work as co-founder and director for Lucky Penny Productions, Bartolucci has been an influential community leader, involved with the Napa Valley Vintners Association, Leadership Napa Valley, and she has served as a commissioner for the City of Napa’s Park and Recreation Department.
Martin studied education and theatre at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and Missouri Southern State University, respectively. He, too, has deep roots in the community, not only through his 32+ years as a manager, producer, presenter, and host for KVON/KVYN radio but also for his many years as the community outreach coordinator for the City of Napa and his almost 16 years as co-founder and managing director for Lucky Penny Productions.
Bartolucci and Martin are not only cornerstones of Napa Valley’s arts community but have served Napa Valley in many other capacities, professionally and as community leaders.
www.luckypennynapa.com
TAYLOR KINDRED and AUBREY BAILEY
PROPRIETORS // CADET WINE + BEER BAR AND CHISPA | FOOD + DRINK
Shaking Up Napa Valley’s Beverage Industry
Aubrey Bailey and Taylor Kindred are two high-spirited, self-described “wine and beverage nerds,” entrepreneurs whose projects have been shaking the valley’s wine foundation. Their latest endeavor, Chispa | Food + Drink, a tequila and seafood bar, has attracted national attention, garnering the fourth slot in Esquire Magazine’s “The Best Bars in America 2024.” This was no small feat, bringing tequila center stage in the middle of wine country, but considering the tenacity of the women behind the bar, it comes as no surprise these two could pull it off.
Aubrey Bailey came to Napa Valley nearly 20 years ago to work as the pastry cook for Yountville’s renowned Redd restaurant. Chef Reddington recognized Bailey’s talent and encouraged her to pursue work at The French Laundry, and it was there that she learned what was needed to succeed in this highly competitive market. Bailey went on to become a wine expert, bolstering her know-how with side work at regional tasting rooms and through viticulture and enology classes. Bailey would go on to become The French Laundry’s esteemed sommelier.
In 2014, confident she had the chops to go it on her own, Bailey and a partner opened the Cadet Wine + Beer Bar in downtown Napa, which became a popular watering hole for locals and tourists alike. Cadet stood out for its offering of craft beers, great wines, and for being open well into the evening, highly unusual in Napa’s sleepy agricultural community.
Taylor Kindred, originally from Concord, began working in restaurants at the tender age of 15 and has always had a passion for food and wine. In 2013, Kindred positioned herself at the pinnacle of foodie culture by moving to the region, working at Darioush and Schweiger Vineyards, then applying for the bartender position at Cadet. Kindred worked alongside Bailey for ten years, and in 2020, she became her business partner.
Together, these close friends would go on to realize their next dream, a tequila bar, the classy and popular Chispa — in Napa Valley of all places. As Bailey pointed out, “Napa Valley had to evolve; we had to be doing new things. Like wine, tequila has similarities in terms of geography and provenance. Chispa was meant to be.”
www.cadetbar.com // www.chispabar.com
GARRET MURPHY
FOUNDER / OWNER, THE VINTNERS COLLECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHER / PAINTER, GARRET THOMAS MURPHY | FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY
The Long and Wining Road
Garrett Murphy’s extensive knowledge of all things wine-related, as well as his warmth and intelligence are just a few of the reasons for the success of his business, the Vintner’s Collective, which has thrived in downtown Napa for 23 years. From the beginning, the Collective captured the imagination of locals and tourists by representing the region’s top small producers — wines that couldn’t be tasted elsewhere. Also unique to the Collective back in 2001 was its tasting room in downtown Napa — not in a vineyard setting. Early interest in the Collective was partly due to Murphy’s exceptional networking and marketing skills and the unique tasting events the Collective hosted throughout the year.
Murphy was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, but grew up in Paris, a setting he remembers enjoying for its gritty artistic bend and foodie culture. Murphy returned to the United States at 17, initially living in Manhattan, then Boston. He eventually made his way to California, where he would work as a consultant in fine dining establishments for nearly 15 years, Auberge du Soleil and Meadowood Napa Valley among his clients.
In addition to the Vintners Collective, an endeavor for which Murphy is especially proud was his Kitchen Collective, an urban cooking club, which had a successful run from 2015 through 2020 — basically until the pandemic. Members took cooking classes with renowned chefs, attended winemaker dinners, hosted their own dinners, and partook in other wine and culinary events. This unique experience was inspired, in part, by the Basque Gastronomic Societies of Spain.
Murphy has since branched out beyond food and wine, now doing fine art photography, drone videography, and being a painter. When asked what keeps him in Napa Valley, Murphy replied, “Napa Valley is the closest one can get to living in France, with its rich food and wine culture and its slower pace, and I thoroughly enjoy representing small producers who need a place to showcase their wines — guiding them professionally and helping them effectively promote their great products.”
www.vintnerscollective.com www.garretmurphyart.com
Photo by Bob McClenahan
REX PICKETT
LEGENDARY AUTHOR OF SIDEWAYS
He Came for The Lifestyle And Stayed For The Pinot Noir
Most lovers of California wines are familiar with Sideways, the iconic story of two friends and a last trip they take, as single buddies, through the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, exploring wineries as they work through their respective midlife identity crises. This thought-provoking story about relationships and wine is one of the most popular flicks among wine buffs, with a following that continues to grow. What most wine lovers don’t know is that Rex Pickett now lives in Napa Valley and is a frequent forager at the Napa Farmers Market on Saturdays (he’s an eating-at-home sort of a guy). Even more often, Pickett can be found putting back a glass of his favorite Ancien Pinot Noir at The Vintner’s Collective on Main Street, just a few steps from his Napa home. It’s at the Collective that Pickett meets up with fans, signs books, and hangs out with his good friend (and the Collective’s owner), Garret Murphy. Imagine the Napa Valley version of Cheers.
The critically acclaimed cult movie Sideways, based on Pickett’s New York Times bestselling novel, Sideways, won five Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Adapted Screenplay and seven Golden Globe nominations, winning for Best Screenplay and Best Picture. It also received accolades from over 350 film critics and film organizations. Pickett subsequently authored four sequels to the book: Vertical, Sideways New Zealand, Sideways Chile, and Sideways Oregon.
Pickett is also the screenwriter for the short, My Mother Dreams the Satan’s Disciples in New York, which won the 2000 Academy Award for Best Live Action Short. This makes Pickett a two-time Oscar-winning writer. In addition, Pickett’s Vertical and Sideways Chile received IPPY Gold Medals, and his novel The Archivist, published in 2021, was featured in the New York Times’s “16 New Books Coming in November.”
www.rexpickettbooks.com
STEVE SANDO
FOUNDER & CEO, RANCHO GORDO
Cool Beans
Steve Sando’s unusual story is a thing of local legend. His wildly successful Rancho Gordo heirloom beans have taken off in a way that few would have expected. In the early days, Sando produced 300 lbs. of beans per year, but just 17 years later, the company made nearly half a million pounds annually. Sando’s beans are now sold through the Rancho Gordo website and storefront, as well as through wholesalers and specialty food outlets. Taking the lead from the wine industry, Sando also considered offering a “bean club,” which now has over 26,000 members— and a waitlist of over 15,000 more.
Owning and operating a company that produced beans was not something Sando had thought to do in the early part of his career — it was more an avocation that he described as landing in his lap. Unplanned turns in his work life are somewhat of a pattern for Sando, from his jazz radio show in Italy to his being a wholesaler of Esprit clothing to his stint as a web designer. Disparate as these professions may sound, all have played a part in the business he runs today.
Sando’s adventure in growing food started on a whim. Though not a farmer and suffering from job burnout, Sando had a notion to start growing heirloom tomatoes and other vegetables. Once he had more than he could personally consume, he thought to sell his leftovers at the Yountville Farmers Market. Contacts he made there led him to market beans for another farmer, which led to his growing and selling his own beans, heirloom varieties of particular interest.
Sando’s bean products got immediate attention — one of his first customers and fans was Thomas Keller, whose restaurants The French Laundry and Per Se were located near the market. Keller’s endorsement of Rancho Gordo products would lead to other prestigious restaurants in the Bay Area hopping on board, not just in incorporating Sando’s amazing beans into their usual recipes but also in putting heirloom beans front and center on the plate.
Sando is also a prolific writer, with seven books on beans under his belt. His most recent, “The Bean Book,” made the New York Times Bestseller list and is already in its second printing.
www.ranchogordo.com
Photo by Kim Serveau
JOHN TUTEUR
CONSERVATIONIST, PUBLIC SERVANT, RANCHER
A Renaissance Man for Napa Valley
No matter where one meets John Tuteur for lunch in Napa County, the meal is bound to be interrupted numerous times by people swinging by the table to say “Hi, John,” or “Aren’t you John Tuteur?” Often, there is a story or question to follow, sometimes long and occasionally emotional, which starts like this: “Remember when you helped my mother?” or “Thanks for getting back to me on that issue about my easement.”
Occasionally, someone is a bit chafed about their tax assessment and not afraid to say so publicly, but Tuteur handles it all with aplomb and respect. Invariably, he takes time to connect, reminisce, or problem-solve then and there, only occasionally saying, “Can I get back to you on this?” This is usually because his ice cream sundae has arrived.
Tuteur is a consummate public servant, having worked for the citizens of Napa County on the Board of Supervisors between 1972 and 1981, then again in 1986 as assessor, a position that would soon expand to include duties as the county recorder, county clerk, registrar of voters, and commissioner of civil marriages. Yes — the longest job title in the county. Tuteur is also the county’s longest-serving elected official, having been in office for 45 years.
Tuteur’s empathy, intelligence, analytical skills, and vast knowledge of all things Napa County have come about not only because of his many years with the county but also because of his exceptional education at Yale and UC Berkeley and as a result of the many other things he does in his life, namely his work as a rancher and conservationist. Tuteur is a lifetime member of the Sierra Club and has strong ties to the Land Trust of Napa County, to which he has turned over large tracts of his family estate to ensure it remains undeveloped.
On weekends and evenings, Tuteur can be found on his horse wrangling cattle, doing farm chores, picking up trash on the roadside, taking a long hike with friends, or making waffles for his grandchildren. www.countyofnapa.org
by Chris
JUDD WALLENBROCK
CEO, SOMERSTON ESTATE
Marketing The Good Life
One would be hard-pressed to find anyone with more experience and knowledge about wine and Napa Valley than Judd Wallenbrock. Wallenbrock has over 44 years of experience working in the wine industry, rubbing elbows with many of the heavy hitters in the wine world, including C. Mondavi & Family, Jessup Cellars, Signorello Estate, Michel-Schlumberger, De Loach Vineyards, and Robert Mondavi — this, in addition to his nearly 16 years as owner and founder of Humanitas Winery and his current position as CEO of Somerston Estate. To say Wallenbrock has packed in more experience than almost anyone else in his field would not be an overstatement.
So, how does Wallenbrock sum up a career with so much depth? “Over the years, I became known as a person who could build brands and was a fixer. I took the basic concepts I learned early on from Robert and Magrit Mondavi— that wine is a beverage of experience and best co-mingled with food and the arts, and I built my career on this foundation.” Wallenbrock said. “My goal is to guide people toward experiencing the good life, to find ways to bring them back to the experience of enjoying wine.”
For his many illustrious clients, Wallenbrock has worked in top leadership positions — as president or vice president, head of marketing, COO, CEO, or managing partner. Invariably, Wallenbrock’s creativity and drive have resulted in important gains and stability for those fortunate enough to have enjoyed his leadership.
When asked which projects were of most pride, Wallenbrock, without hesitation, talked of his own winery, Humanitas Wines: “I had always wanted to have my own winery and to give back to my community — Napa, being the place I cherish. I wanted to tackle hunger, housing, and health and to do so locally.” Though not a non-profit, Humanitas was organized to give all profits to charity.
Fit as a fiddle and full of boundless energy and enthusiasm, there is no doubt Wallenbrock will continue to breathe new life into Napa Valley’s wine industry while nurturing its strong roots. www.somerstonestate.com
SOLAR-POWERED WINE
A Reality at Frank Family Vineyards
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS
Calistoga’s Frank Family Vineyards completed the installation of more than 800 solar panels on their winery property in fall 2024, enabling them to generate at least 75% of their electricity needs, including powering the winery, tasting room, and new hospitality space, The Miller House. Through a combination of on-site solar and purchased renewable energy, Frank Family Vineyards is powered by 100% renewable electricity.
Frank Family initially made the switch to renewable electricity in 2022 when the winery enrolled in Marin Clean Energy’s (MCE) Deep Green Program, allowing them to source 100% renewable energy from local wind and solar power. With their recent solar array installation, Frank Family Vineyards is shifting from purchasing clean energy and supporting the renewables market to generating their own, adding more carbonfree power to the grid. The remaining 25% of Frank Family’s energy needs will continue to be met through their partnership with MCE Deep Green.
“Sustainability is a key part of our winemaking philosophy at Frank Family Vineyards, and we’re thrilled to start generating our own energy,” said Senior Winemaker and General Manager Todd Graff. “We’re always seeking new ways to minimize our carbon footprint and carefully consider the
impact every winemaking and business practice has on the land we care for and the community around us. This investment is another milestone in our sustainability efforts, and we are proud to say 2024 is our first vintage powered by the sun!”
The new solar array will generate over 573,000 kilowatt-hours of energy annually, the equivalent of the average annual electricity usage of 53 houses. Frank Family’s solar array installation is the latest in the winery’s “Green to our Roots” philosophy. For Frank Family, being green involves earth-to-bottle stewardship, including protecting and restoring the Napa River watershed, saving energy and water, reducing waste and carbon footprint, and being conscientious employers and good neighbors. The winery
also maintains sustainability certifications across 100% of its owned and leased vineyards and was recently recognized for its excellence in sustainability with the California Green Medal Leader Award in 2023 for its leadership across the full spectrum of sustainability—environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability.
FRANK FOR A CAUSE
This year, as part of Frank Family’s annual giving campaign, Frank for a Cause, Frank Family has partnered with 4ocean to support their mission to combat the ocean plastic crisis and to further the reach of their sustainability efforts. Through summer 2025, every purchase of Frank Family wine will pull one pound of plastic and trash from the world’s oceans, rivers, and coastlines. As a 4ocean certified cleanup partner, Frank Family Vineyards has already pulled 12,260 pounds of plastic waste and other man-made debris, has funded 44 full-time boat captains and crew, and has cleaned nine high-impact beaches from Bali to Florida to California. For more information about Frank Family’s partnership with 4ocean, visit: www.frankfamilyvineyards.com/philanthropy/4ocean.
FOR MORE INFORMATION www.frankfamilyvineyards.com
“EAT DIRT”
AT PRIEST RANCH WINERY
BY SUSAN L RICHARDS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF PRIEST
There is no more enticing culinary combination than wine and chocolate.
At Priest Ranch’s tasting room in Yountville, the Taste the Terroir Experience offers just that, but with a twist: the opportunity to “eat dirt” with chocolates that emulate the dirt grapes grow in.
The concept of “terroir” is that wine takes on particular flavor characteristics from the vineyard’s soil. To demonstrate this in an entertaining and delicious way, CEO Judd Wallenbrock came up with the idea of offering a wine-tasting experience that pairs Priest Ranch estate-grown wines with handcrafted chocolate that simulates the dirt clumps in a vineyard. Judd commented, “The diversity of soils in Napa Valley is unlike any in the world, and this complex variety makes our wines taste so unique. What better way to tell that story than chocolate? Making each piece look like distinct types of “dirt” is a much more fun and tasty way to tell the story!”
Priest Ranch DTC Manager Alex Gomez helped design the “eat dirt" experience. Working with renowned Yountville chocolatier Chris Kollar of Kollar Chocolates, they developed chocolates that match and
enhance the flavors in the wine. Each chocolate has a soil-inspired name and sits in an edible clump of dirt on the plate. For example, “Loam & Lemon,” served with Priest Ranch Block 71 Sauvignon Blanc, is a Meyer lemon white chocolate with bee pollen, raw sugar, and Oreo cookie crumb dirt, while “Clay & Cocoa,” paired with Priest Ranch Block 136 Cabernet Sauvignon is a sumptuous pomegranate and pink peppercorn dark chocolate ganache covered with cocoa nibs in a pile of chocolate crumbs.
The Taste the Terroir Experience is led by a Priest Ranch Wine Specialist
who guides small groups of guests through tasting four wines and chocolates while explaining the types of dirt in the vineyard and its impact on the wine. The tasting experience is interactive, approximately 90 minutes long, and can be enjoyed on the patio or by the cozy fireplace in the tasting room.
Guests who love these unique chocolates and want to recreate the experience at home can purchase a box of terroir treats. Each sixteen-piece box contains four of each type of chocolate. It includes “Sweet & Silty,” raspberry milk chocolate with matcha and cocoa powder dirt, “Decadent Ash,” dark chocolate cherry with cocoa powder dirt, and the chocolates described above.
The Priest Ranch Tasting Room is located in the heart of Yountville and is open Monday through Sunday, 10:00am6:00pm, except holidays. If savory foods have more appeal, try the Bacon and Wine or Artisan (cheese, charcuterie) experiences. To reserve an experience at Priest Ranch, visit www.priestranchwines.com
JEANCHARLES BOISSET
Wine Enthusiast’s
2024 Wine Person of the Year
BY LAYNE RANDOLPH | PHOTO BY JEREMY BALL COURTESY OF BOISSET COLLECTION
Never has an award seemed so welldeserved. Jean-Charles Boisset, the French-born wine entrepreneur and proprietor of Boisset Collection, adds another moniker to his name: Wine Enthusiast’s “2024 Person of the Year.”
Boisset has made an indelible mark in America’s wine industry since he purchased his first winery, DeLoach Vineyards, in 2003. Since then, he has only made that mark more pronounced as he acquired and restored historical properties and wineries throughout Northern California. The acquisitions are but a part of his accomplishments. Boisset has brought joie de vivre to the Napa wine industry, which is unmatched by his contemporaries. Boisset stands apart in his showmanship, undaunting positivity and joy.
After bursting into the California wine scene, he met and married a scion of one of America’s most revered wine families, Gina Gallo, with whom he has twin daughters. He has brought a French flair to the more rustic, down-to-earth, and traditional vibe of Napa Valley. Those who know or have worked with the flamboyant vino
savant loudly sing his praises as someone authentic to his public persona.
Hailing from Vougeot, France, in Burgundy, Boisset’s vintner father and family own historically significant vineyards and wineries throughout France. Boisset first visited California and Buena Vista Winery when he was eleven, and he began a lifelong love affair with the winery, eventually fulfilling his dream by purchasing it decades later. It remains central to Boisset’s portfolio of California properties as it represents his childhood dream and the region’s history.
“I fell in love with the history of California, the sense of pioneering, and the idea that everything is possible in this beautiful state. In the last 150 years, we have the amazing innovators, pioneers, the Gold Rush, and everything that followed— the spiritual endeavor that says everything can be done here.”
He has made it his mission to help conserve Napa Valley’s short but poignant history. He does this by purchasing landmark sites, preserving their cultural importance, and restoring them to their former glory and beyond.
Boisset acquired California’s oldest continually operating grocery store, Oakville Grocery. Adjacent to Oakville Grocery stands what used to be the founder’s home, which Boisset restored and transformed into Napa’s first wine history museum—the 1881 Napa Museum at Oakville Wine Merchant. Boisset also purchased the Elizabeth Spencer Winery with its 1872 Post Office Building as its tasting room, the Calistoga Depot—1868—the historic rail terminus built by Sam Brannan, and the Ink House Luxury Inn built in 1885 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
As part of Raymond Vineyard’s 50thanniversary celebrations this year, Boisset unveiled “The Eye,” a commissioned outdoor sculpture of a giant eye modeled on Boisset’s own. It is an abstract sculpture of a man that many consider a visionary. His vision for Napa is a positive one. “We [Napa Valley] have transitioned over the last three decades into a [region] of extreme knowledge and savoirfaire. Now we are entering into a world of creativity and craft—a time of true artistry.”
ST. HELENA
An AVA with History, Heart, and Heritage
BY MELISSA VOGT
St. Helena, the beating heart of Napa Valley, tells a story woven from ancient roots, dynamic terroir, and winemaking tradition. Here, the land speaks through its history, the ideal climate, and, above all, the wines that flow from its vines. This historic AVA, officially recognized in 1995, is situated in the narrowest part of Napa Valley, where mountain air meets valley warmth, volcanic soil mingles with alluvial fans, and grapes are brought to life by the hands of passionate winemakers.
A STORIED PAST
St. Helena’s history dates back thousands of years to its first inhabitants, the Wappo people, who called this place “Anakotanoma” or “Bull Snake Village.” They also named the mountain “Kanamota,” meaning “Human Mountain,” which would later become Mount St. Helena. Over the centuries, the town of St. Helena grew from its original foundation on Rancho Carne Humana, a land grant awarded in 1841 by General Mariano Vallejo to Dr. Edward Turner Bale. From those early days, St. Helena’s rich land attracted settlers, and in 1855, it became the nucleus of a bustling community. By the 1860s, pioneers like George Belden Crane and Charles Krug planted vineyards, setting the stage for a wine legacy that would shape the entire future of Napa Valley.
THE TERROIR of ST. HELENA
Today, St. Helena’s terroir reflects the full character of its location. “St. Helena has long been at the heart of the winegrowing tradition of Napa Valley, and we continue to benefit from the wisdom that history provides us,” said Adam Casto, head winemaker at Ehlers Estate. This AVA is marked by the balancing forces of heat and shelter, where the morning fog rarely lingers, allowing warm valley air to foster ripe, full-bodied varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The combination of gravelly loam and volcanic basalt soils nurtures vines, particularly on the western benchland, where producers craft elegant wines shielded by the Mayacamas Mountains. Casto elaborated, “It’s really at the pleasure of the grower to inflect with a soft hand, utilizing the endless variation any given site can produce.”
According to Raymond Vineyards winemaker Thane Knutson, the region’s terroir is shaped by the Napa River and the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountains: “At this narrowest point, volcanic activity has left a tapestry of mineral-rich soils, creating a ‘pressure cooker’ of natural forces.” For Raymond Vineyards, these elements
combine to produce a “signature depth and richness—lush, seductive textures with notes of warm, ripe fruit like marionberry, complemented by layers of exotic spice,” Knutson said. This distinctive profile highlights the region’s geological character, bringing out the best of its volcanic origins.
The hourglass-shaped AVA spans a spectrum of soils and microclimates, from Calistoga-like warmth in the north to the Rutherford-influenced southern half. According to Angelina Mondavi, consulting winemaker at Charles Krug, “The St. Helena AVA is nestled between the Vaca
The wines of St. Helena are as diverse as the land, a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation.
and Mayacamas Mountains, which buffer us from extreme sun and winds, so we can often hang our vines a bit longer without drying out the berries.” This unique balance allows winemakers to make wines that reflect the land’s nuances with remarkable precision. The vineyards here rise from 400 to 800 feet, and those at the higher altitudes benefit from mountain-influenced air, cooling the fruit in the summer heat and creating wines that are complex, bold, and strikingly expressive.
warmer Mediterranean climate and shallow and well-drained soils; this allows for the green characteristics to become less prominent and spotlights the fruit-forwardness that makes a seductive Cabernet Franc.”
At Ehlers Estate, the philosophy blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach. Their organic practices and dedication to sustainable farming set a foundation for wines that express the essence of their vineyards, and it’s clear that their goal is to share the enthusiasm they feel in producing wines that reflect the life and culture of Napa Valley. This commitment to tradition and evolution led to a renaissance of Cabernet Franc, a wine Casto believes aligns perfectly with
WINEMAKING TRADITION and MODERN EXPRESSIONS
The wines of St. Helena are as diverse as the land, a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Charles Krug, the oldest wine estate in Napa Valley, established in 1861, continues to honor this legacy. “Growing and making wines here requires patience,” Mondavi noted. “Where we are located, in the narrowest point within Napa Valley, warm days and cool nights ensure the grapes are ripe, flavors are present, and the seeds brown with no bitterness—but it can take time in this section of the valley.” For Mondavi, this slow approach is essential to capturing St. Helena’s terroir, particularly in varietals like Cabernet Franc, which has flourished recently as a single-varietal wine. “It truly is a superstar here because of our
the era’s global sophistication and shared sense of discovery. “With our combination of wine growing acumen and ideal conditions, it is no surprise that we have found achievement in a cultivar that seems so well suited to the times,” he said.
Stephanie Putnam, VP of winemaking at Raymond Vineyards, underscored the region’s commitment to sustainability. “We consider ourselves stewards of the land, deeply committed to sustainable practices at our St. Helena estate. By embracing biodynamic and organic farming, we invest time and dedication into cultivating vibrant, living soils. These practices foster a balanced ecosystem, allowing the vines to thrive naturally,” resulting in grapes that are “vibrant, powerful, and authentic, reflective of the land itself.”
WINERIES at the HEART of ST. HELENA
Each winery in St. Helena offers a unique lens into the AVA’s character, from historic properties to family-run estates. Charles Krug Winery stands as a testament to Napa Valley’s enduring legacy. Mondavi, a fourth-generation winemaker, carries on the tradition instilled by her grandfather, Peter Mondavi Sr., a Napa Valley legend who believed, “Everything starts in the vineyard.” This philosophy has informed every decision, from rootstock selection to canopy management, creating balanced vines and sun-kissed fruit that bring depth and elegance to each bottle. “We focus on
tutored flight of Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc with options to add library wines or special-release wines,” he said, adding that their family has lived in St. Helena for over forty years, has deep connections within the community, and works closely with local shop owners, restaurant owners, and concierge teams to enhance each visitor’s experience. “It’s a fun town where one can find unique and authentic experiences.”
Ehlers Estate, an organic and sustainable winery, lies at the intersection of history and innovation, drawing inspiration from St. Helena’s distinct terroir. Their Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc reflect the AVA’s depth and richness, while their winemaking approach captures
balanced canopies, and planting rootstock that is less vigorous,” Mondavi explained. These choices echo the decisions made generations ago and come alive in the bottle.
Meanwhile, Lang & Reed taps into St. Helena’s charm from their tasting room in the historic Spring House, a Victorian building on a quiet street just off Main.
John Skupny, Lang & Reed’s proprietor, has crafted an experience that captures the AVA’s charm. “St. Helena stands out for being right in the heart of the valley, steeped in history and retaining the rural charm, yet with a splash of cosmopolitan panache,” Skupny said. His tasting room, a block from Main Street, feels like a cozy country retreat where guests can sip Cabernet Franc or Chenin Blanc on the front porch. “We offer a couple of different tastings; one is a
Napa’s spirit of exploration. “Time is the greatest asset afforded any wine culture and has allowed us substantial exploration to identify some of the most hallowed sites in all of American wine growing,” Casto reflected. “The mark this legacy conveys upon us is hard to overstate.”
A LASTING IMPRESSION
For visitors, the St. Helena AVA offers not only world-class wine but also a deep connection to Napa’s history and winemaking culture. Each vineyard, tasting room, and glass of wine tells a story of this unique place, from its indigenous roots to its reputation as a world-renowned winegrowing region. The history here isn’t just in the glass; it’s all around.
St. Helena offers an experience that’s both timeless and forward-looking. From the volcanic, well-drained soils and balanced ripening to the dedicated vintners who bring each vintage to life, this AVA is a testament to Napa Valley’s enduring legacy. “The continued efforts to reach the high bars established by our predecessors and contemporaries facilitates a collaborative spirit of rare design. We have recognized and internalized the values of those shoulders we stand on and appreciate the importance of preserving them for future generations,” Casto concluded. For those who venture here, the wines are not just drinks but expressions of a storied land, shaped by time and alive with tradition, passion, and character.
The New Puglia
Revitalized but True to Its Roots
BY LAYNE RANDOLPH
Astriking image has defined Italy’s Puglia region for decades—the white conical stone houses called Trulli. Built by layering stones without mortar, legend has it that the Trulli were designed to avoid taxation since they could be quickly dismantled when the tax man cometh. Alberobello, the symbolic home of the Trulli, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. While the Trulli are a must-see, they are the tip of the iceberg when discovering Puglia’s soul.
WINE FROM PUGLIA
Puglia’s flagship wines are Primitivo and Negroamaro, and Rosato made with these varietals has always been a mainstay. Fiano, Verdeca, Malvasia Nera, Susumaniello, and Nero di Troia are also indigenous to the area. The most significant production of Primitivo is in Primitivo di Manduria DOC near Taranto.
Varvaglione 1921, Taranto History and Wine Innovation
Varvaglione 1921 is one of the oldest wineries in Southern Italy and exports five million bottles to over 70 countries. The Varvaglione Family, now headed by Maria Teresa and Cosimo Varviglione, the winemaker, has been farming their land for 100 years. The next generation—Marzia, Angelo, and Francesca—is focused on innovations in vineyard sustainability, like an onsite worm farm, and making wine in new ways, like launching a non-alcohol spritz and the 12 e Mezzo line offering wines with just 12.5 percent alcohol.
The winery has cred: Gambero Rosso has awarded Tre Bicchieri to several of its wines, including the 2021 Cosimo Varvaglione Private Collection Negroamaro del Salento IGP. In addition to Cosimo’s namesake, all the wines dedicated to family members are standouts: “Marfi” Verdeca Sauvignon Puglia IGP (daughter Marzia), “Primadonna” Chardonnay di Puglia IGP (wife Maria Teresa), “Tatu” Primitivo del Salento IGP (son Angelo), and “Chicca” Primitivo di Manduria Dolce Naturale DOCG (daughter Francesca). A visit to their estate outside Taranto can include horseback riding through the vineyards upon request.
Incidentally, Taranto itself is worth a visit. Part of the Magna Grecia, it hosts an elaborate collection of antiquities in the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (“MarTa”). The old town is a labyrinth of falling down buildings and expertly muralled walls, and the contrast is eerily
beautiful. Taranto mussels are grown in Mar Piccola, a just-off-the-sea natural basin that gave Taranto the nickname “City of Two Seas.” The combination of salty sea water and sweet freshwater that flows through Mar Piccola adds a delicious, oneof-a-kind flavor. “Most Michelin-starred restaurants that offer mussels are offering Taranto mussels,” according to Angelo Varvaglione. // www.varvaglione.com
Leone de Castris, Rosato’s Ties to America
This Salice Salentino DOC winery has a special place for Americans since American soldiers inadvertently helped it continue bottling wine during and after WWII. The winery was out of glass, but it found American beer bottles littering the area and used them to hold Leone de Castris wine. Some of these bottles are still on display in the winery. According to the estate, Leone de Castris’s “Five Roses” Rosato was the first to be sold in the US. Comprised primarily of Negroamaro with a small amount of Malvasia Nera di Lecce, Five Roses is cherry-pink with notes of strawberry and rose, and its name comes from the odd fact that several generations of the de Castris family had five children. // www.leonedecastris.com
Tormaresca, Marchesi Antinori’s Puglian Estate
The Tuscan wine dynasty Antinori owns Tormaresca, located in Minervino Murge, in the Castel del Monte DOC region. Calafuria Rosato Salento IGT, a crisp and elegant Rosato of Negroamaro, is grown in
NVL beyond the valley
their vineyards along the Adriatic Coast. Antinori has wineries around the world, including two in Napa Valley (Stag’s Leap and Antica). // www.tormaresca.it
Libreria Libriemma, Bari
This central Bari spot melds two complementary forces: wine and books. It is half bookstore and half fully stocked and expertly guided enoteca, making for a tasty and informative stop. It’s also a great way to get a sample flight of the wines the region is most known for while nibbling on tarralli and picking out a book for the next trip. Two finds during a recent tasting: 2023 Marco Ludovico Petrsucio, Rosato, Puglia IGT and 2023 I Pastini Cupa, Bianco d’Alessano, Valle d’Itria IGP. // www.liberrima.it
VALLE D’ITRIA
Antonello Losito, the founder of Southern Visions Travel based in Polignano al Mare, started his bespoke travel operation to show
visitors to Altamura for years to experience Caseifficio Dicecca (Dicecca Dairy), a local cheese producer recently featured in Stanley Tucci’s Searching for Italy docuseries. Dicecca's forest-based cheese bar crafts a 100-day Primitivo wine-soaked blue cheese covered in cherries called “Amore Primitivo.” This unique cheese and the town’s famous bread are must-tries for any food enthusiast. Antonello’s group guides visitors to Altamura to immerse themselves in this bread and cheese culture, visit Dicecca’s cheese shop, and even try cheese making. // www.vitodicecca.it
Ostuni, La Citta Bianca
Ostuni is a wonderfully chic town. Its streets and houses are painted white, hence the name La Citta Bianca (the white city), and the vision of all white houses on
visitors the authentic Puglia, from “old recipes from the old days” to young innovators reviving ancient traditions in a modern way. He’s a proponent of many places that lie in the Valle d’Itria—the heart of Puglia, north of the southernmost tip of the boot’s heel, Salento, bordering Bari, Taranto, and Brindisi provinces, and, coincidentally, inclusive of Alberobello. He argues that other up-and-coming towns, Ostuni, Cisternino, and Altamura among them, offer the experiences most visitors dream of.
Altamura, Gourmet Bread and Cheese Altamura is renowned for its delectable Altamura bread, but also boasts a vibrant cheese culture. Antonello has been guiding
a hill is magical. Ostuni is regarded as an architectural marvel and highly walkable, with winding streets leading up to the Old Town, which has two magnificent sights— the Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace. There are many places to stop and grab a bite. Don’t miss the region’s traditional pasta specialty, orecchiette, which is handrolled by local nonnas.
Ostuni’s Il Cortiletto restaurant boasts a quaint outdoor terrace and a broad menu that will satisfy carnivores, pescatarians, and vegetarians alike. Items include the Puglian specialty Pureed Fava with Chicory and Beef Fillet Stuffed with Caciocavallo Cheese. // www.trattoriailcortiletto.it
Cisternino, Roasted Meat Paradise
Cisternino, one of Italy’s Borghi Piu Belli (most beautiful towns), is a charming destination with narrow winding streets and white-washed buildings. But its true allure lies in the unique dining experience at Zio Pietro, a renowned butcher shop. Here, guests can select their meat from the counter before it is prepared and served on the spot. This interactive dining experience, coupled with the town’s charm, is one of Antonello’s recommended experiences for “old recipes from the old days.” One such product is the bombette—a Puglian delicacy—these “little bombs” are small pork rolls stuffed with cheese and then roasted. “You select the meat, sit outside, and then spend the night with music in the square.”
Masseria Torre Maizza
A Rocco Forte property, Torre Maizza is a beautifully restored 16th-century masseria that combines traditional Puglian architecture with modern sophistication. The resort features spacious rooms and suites, some with private rooftop terraces overlooking the surrounding olive groves, golf course, and the sea. The culinary team is exceptional, and guests can indulge in extraordinary locally-inspired dishes that emphasize fresh, seasonal produce and traditional Italian flavors. // www.masseriatorremaizza.com
Casa Badra
Here’s where to get a Trulli fix. Eleven Trulli were combined to make one fully staffed villa with five bedrooms, six baths, three kitchens, a heated pool, a terrace, 300 olive
Luxe Lodgings in the Itria Valley Masseria Le Carubbe
Masseria are large country farmhouses where, in the past, farm workers lived and worked near the principal residence. If you’re seeking tranquility in the Puglian countryside, the ancient but perfectly restored Masseria Le Carrube offers 19 unique rooms, each featuring a private courtyard garden framed by stone walls and vibrant bougainvillea. Olive groves and fruit trees surround the rustic retreat. The restaurant offers a delightful vegetarian menu inspired by local traditions and seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and the Masseria’s gardens. // www.masserialecarrubeostuni.it/en/masseria-le-carrube/
trees, and, as the property puts it, one moon. It is designed for outdoor living but has exquisite taste on the inside. Combining the Trulli gives many rooms the signature Trulli vaulted ceiling, comfort, and indisputable charm. // www.casabadra.com
EXPERIENCES
Tour de Puglia, Cycling Culture
Puglia is a mecca for cycling enthusiasts, and Antonello himself was a professional cyclist who brought that expertise to Southern Visions’ Cycling program. He is now the region’s most significant cycling tour operator. “We have 150 bikes and a fleet of operators and guides. I have top-ofthe-line $6000 bikes, electric bikes, and all sorts of inventory.” His company also has a Picnic Department that “focuses on the most decadent, romantic, and meaningful day tours we can do.” It operates as a Destination Management Company, working with travel agents worldwide to create bespoke adventures, like cycling the Puglia Aqueduct Cycle Route to Cisternino. This route goes through the Mediterranean scrub of the Itria Valley. // www.southernvisionstravel.com
The 500 Journeys Experience
Another Southern Visions Travel bespoke experience is 500 Journeys, which offers restored Fiat 500s for rent. Imagine driving along the magnificent Adriatic Coast and picnicking at the seaside with a pizza and a bottle of local bubbly–an unforgettable Puglian experience. // www.southernvisions travel.com/experience/the-fiat-500-vintagecar-experience/
Savoring the Season
HOLIDAY DINING NAPA VALLEY STYLE
BY CHRIS ANDREWS
Whether one lives in the region or is considering Napa Valley as a spot to spend the holidays, there is truly no place better to be during Hanukkah, Bodhi Day, Yule, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or ringing in the New Year. Napa Valley is all about indulging and celebrating with gourmet food, world-class wines, and exceptional hospitality. And Napa Valley Restaurants do not disappoint, going all out to create a merry vibe with delicious seasonal menus and festive décor.
Here’s a non-secret for those from out of town: Yountville wins the prize as one of the most festive spots to visit—almost like being on the North Pole, except with a Mediterranean climate. The town’s resorts go all out for the holidays with special amenities, entertainment, and room specials. Yountville’s Bottega and Lucy Restaurants offer exceptional holiday menus, and when reservations are made well in advance, they can accommodate larger parties. Bistro Jeanty is a local favorite for holiday cheer. Along with a rotating brunch and seasonal menu with “merry surprises,” they are also open on Christmas Eve, a hot ticket for the lucky patrons who reserve a table in advance. For those in search of a stress-free option, Thomas Keller’s Ad Hoc Restaurant, which is conveniently open on every major holiday, offers a Christmas carry-out menu that includes prime rib, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and roasted carrots, rounded out with persimmon pudding and one of their special pies.
www.botteganapavalley.com www.lucyyountville.com www.bistrojeanty.com www.thomaskeller.com/adhoc
Many local restaurants add seasonal flair to their menus for the Holiday season, however, for a complete holiday experience, look to some of the valley’s award-winning resorts. A favorite holiday hub is the Silverado Resort From their tree-lighting ceremony at the end of November through their New Year’s Eve celebration, the resort packs it in. This year, they will have a Santa Train and breakfast with Santa, specials menu offerings for Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s at The Grill, a seated Hanukkah dinner with rack of lamb and latke, to-go Christmas Eve dinners with glazed ham and sides, and a New Year’s Eve bar, buffet, dancing, and ball drop in the Silverado Ballroom. All season, the resort is festively decorated, and bar offerings include holiday flourishes.
www.silveradoresort.com
The Meritage Resort is also great for a bit of relaxation and fun with its ‘Merry Meritage’ program. An area attraction over the holidays the resort is known for its outdoor ice skating rink, igloos, and firepits, and holiday dining experiences include a Christmas Day brunch with gourmet food stations at the resort, a New Year’s Eve 5-course Winemaker’s Dinner, a New Year’s Eve dinner at the acclaimed Ember Steak Restaurant and a 4-course New Year’s Eve dinner at Olive & Hay. For the party-goer, don’t miss the annual New Year’s Eve fête with bar, live music, and balloon drop.
www.meritageresort.com
The Four Seasons Napa Valley has its own variation on the season, with cozy chalets and glamping with firepits, seasonal cocktails and food, and dining in the festive domes at the Auro Restaurant, which includes a 7-course dinner prepared by Michelin-acclaimed chef Rogelio Garcia. The resort also offers special classes, such as cookie decorating, a charcuterie building, and a truffle-entrée making class. Truss Restaurant offers a special holiday dinner menu on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
www.fourseasons.com
For a gourmet family-style holiday dinner prepared by top chefs, FARM at the Carneros Resort has the perfect option for both the evenings of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For New Year’s Eve, FARM offers its Perrier-Jouët New Year’s Eve Dinner, a multi-course tasting menu with assorted cocktails and wines, and bythe-glass Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque. Postdinner is an afterparty celebration at the Carneros Courtyard with an open bar, a DJ, and dancing into the New Year.
www.carnerosresort.com
For those who prefer to stay home to host their own holiday dinners and parties, the valley is full of exceptional options for grazing table components, fully prepared dinners, cheese and charcuterie boards, appetizers, and sweets.
Try Sunshine Foods Market, Fatted Calf and Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant, and Whole Foods for a great selection of menu ideas and appetizers. All have excellent cheese and charcuterie selections, crackers, bread, and antipasto, which can be customized to create beautifully done trays and boards for easy pickup.
Fully prepared holiday meals simplify life with delectable menus available to order
poultry, and seafood selections, Brown’ s
Valley Market has some of the best holiday dinner fare, with every favorite holiday side dish available. For an Italian twist, North Napa’s Food Shed has wonderful, seasonal contorni, braised pork, chicken cacciatore and parmesan, beef cannellini, assorted lasagnas, crispy fresh salads, and housemade bread. Genova Deli carries hot foods to go, a sumptuous antipasto bar, frozen lasagnas, focaccia and homemade pasta, Italian gelato, and an impressive selection of imported Panettone.
And when asked to “accept all cookies,” be sure to say “yes” — a thumbs up or subtle nod will do. Napa Valley is well known for its
Many local restaurants add seasonal flair to their menus for the Holiday season, however, for a complete holiday experience, look to some of the valley’s awardwinning resorts.
from most of the local markets. Whole Foods offers full holiday dinners with roast turkey or chicken, other roasted meats, including BBQ tri-tip, and standard sides and salads. With its ultra-premium meats,
exceptional confectionery. Each sweet tried will be better than the last, whether from Bouchon, Buttercream and Model Bakeries, Sweetie Pies, Vintage Sweet Shop, Anette’ s Chocolate, Kollar Chocolates, Woodhouse Chocolate, or Earth & Sky Chocolates. Outstanding holiday desserts include Sweetie Pies’ Buche de Noel, a flourless chocolate roulade filled with ganache and whipped cream and adorned with fudge frosting, and Model Bakery’s colorful and deliciously buttery frosted shortbread and gingerbread cookies. Buttercream Bakery offers holiday cookie trays with a wide assortment of favorites — perfect for large family gatherings.
Finally, if throwing a larger bash, consider hiring one of the area’s top food trucks. Especially festive is Pizzeria Azzuro’ s portable pizza kitchen and Napa Valley Lobster Company. Round out the offerings with a licensed beverage caterer — the endof-evening cleanup will be a breeze.
SEASONAL SIPPING
The holidays place much emphasis on well-planned menus, from theming festive appetizers to culinary highlights on the table where there’s a dainty balance between traditional main dishes, complementary sides, and accouterments. Cocktails, however, are often overlooked but are also an integral part of any festive spread. A spiked hot chocolate, for example, can add a little sparkle to Christmas morning, a merry welcome drink can set the tone for dinner parties, and a festive after-dinner libation can keep the spirits high throughout the night (or day).
Whether elevating a classic cocktail by swapping traditional ingredients for winter flavors or opting to impress with a unique mixology masterpiece, gather inspiration from some of Napa’s premier bars and restaurants who share their favorite holiday spirits below.
FESTIVE HOLIDAY PUNCH
“Punch is a communal experience, bringing people together around the bowl, which is what the holidays are really about,” shared Michael Coyne, director of wine and spirits at Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection. “Beyond being simple, it looks fun and festive, making it the perfect libation to serve at your soiree because it keeps you mixing and mingling with your guests instead of mixing drinks behind the bar all night.” // www.aubergeresorts.com/ stanlyranch
HOT BUTTERED RUM
A combination of Clement VSOP rum, spiced rum, butter, cinnamon, and clove makes this “the perfect cozy sip for winter months,” shares Megan Anderson, food and beverage manager for Violetto at Alila Napa Valley. “Hot Buttered Rum showcases the warm, baking spice flavors often found in traditional American holiday dishes, making it an ideal pairing with your favorite winter meals. The infusion of orange into the Clément rum adds a bright, seasonal touch, inspired by California’s citrus abundance during the holidays.” // www.alilahotels.com/ napa-valley/dining/violetto
PUMPKIN PIE MARTINI
Rich, seasonal flavors with balanced sweetness and a creamy texture allow this martini, built with vodka and pumpkin puree spice blend, to evoke the feeling of indulging in a creamy, spiced pumpkin pie, according to Bar Lucia founder Kara Haspel Lind. “The final touch, often a whipped
FESTIVE HOLIDAY PUNCH
makes 2 quarts, serves 8-10
26 oz chilled water
13 oz Cognac
6 oz aged rum
13 oz demerara sugar
6 oz lemon juice
3 lemons (peeled)
8 dashes Angostura bitters 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Garnishes: Lemon wheels, fresh whole cranberries, whole allspice cloves, fresh thyme sprigs, fresh rosemary, shaved nutmeg, a splash of your favorite amaro.
Method: The night before: Make a giant ice cube using a fun mold or a basic bowl by filling it with filtered water and freezing overnight. Peel three lemons and place the peels in a jar with a lid or a Tupperware container. Add the demerara sugar over the lemon peels, cover tightly and place in the fridge overnight. The day of: Add 6 oz of lemon juice to the sugar/lemon peel mixture and shake well to mix. Pour this mixture into the punch bowl and add the Cognac, rum, Angostura bitters, salt, and water. Stir well until all ingredients are dissolved. Add other ingredients as desired and place the giant ice cube in the center of the punch bowl. Finish by shaving fresh nutmeg (1/3 clove) over the top of your wonderous holiday creation and serve.
www.aubergeresorts.com/stanlyranch
cream topping, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spices, nutmeg, cinnamon, sugar, gives the martini both a visual and flavorful nod to classic pumpkin pie.” // www.barlucia.com
GOLDEN EQUINOX
At Charlie’s in downtown Napa, chef Elliot Bell used the heat wave lingering into fall as inspiration to play with a classic tiki drink called Saturn. “We swapped gin for a warm spiced rye and added a cinnamon coconut foam to combine both summer and fall flavors,” he shared about the cocktail that’s currently on their bar menu and combines rye whiskey, Falernum, lemon juice, almond-passionfruit syrup and burnt cinnamon-coconut foam. // www.charliesnv.com
HOLI-DATE
Lead bartender at Sky & Vine, Christopher Martinez has embraced the shift in seasons since mid-October with an aromatic datebased cocktail. “Each sip takes me back to family holidays,” said Martinez. “The rich scent of date and banana bread hits before the first taste, evoking memories of grandparents, parents, and siblings all together.” // www.skyandvine.com
BROKEN ORNAMENT
This proprietary cocktail returns to Solbar at Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection, for a fourth iteration. “This year, we’re taking the milk solids leftover from our Clarified Milk Rum Punch (so whole milk that solidified around ground lemon peel, cinnamon,
HOLI-DATE
2 oz Kōloa dark rum
0.75 oz date syrup
0.25 oz simple syrup
0.5 oz pineapple juice
0.75 oz lime juice
1 egg white
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Method: combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice; shake until chilled and strain into a coup glass with grated nutmeg over the top.
www.skyandvine.com
cloves, star anise, nutmeg, and vanilla, and we’re adding rum); it’s almost like a new take on eggnog,” said Carly Hiebert, bar supervisor at Solbar. The drink presentation was inspired by one of her childhood memories; her parents asked her to throw away some old glass ornaments. “Being the little chaos monkey I am, I decided throwing them against a brick wall in the back driveway would be way more fun.” So, to get to the cocktail, imbibers have to break the ornament with a hammer. “It
can be a little messy, but everyone seems to really enjoy getting to destroy this beautiful thing.”
CLASSIC MARGARITA
Use La Calenda’s classic margarita as a base to infuse it with seasonal flavors. General Manager Joel Muniz suggests experimenting with cranberry, pomegranate, or a dash of cinnamon to the traditional mix of 2 oz blanco tequila (they use Casa Dragones blanco), 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice, and 0.5 oz agave. // www.lacalendamex.com
CRIMSON BLOOM
The exclusivity of the Crimson Bloom as an off-menu item at The Charter Oak this holiday season makes it all the more alluring. “The cocktail is mainly inspired by the changing of the seasons,” explained Jack Means, co-creator of the drink with Scotty Wippern. “We wanted both the flavors and appearance to reflect these seasonal differences: on the one hand, there are bright fall notes in both the gin and honey, paired with the more earthy and resinous flavors of the aperitif, rosemary, and cappelletti.”
The cocktail’s blood orange base is thanks to Wippern, who shares that it’s always been one of his favorite fruits. “Growing up in northern California, I’d always see blood oranges in the grocery stores with my mom and would beg her to get some.” // www. thecharteroak.com
CRIMSON BLOOM
1.5 oz Mommenpop Blood Orange
1 oz Barr Hill Gin
1 oz lemon juice
0.25 oz Cappelletti aperitif
0.75 honey syrup (see below)
Pinch of salt
Rosemary sprig
Honey Syrup: combine 1/2 cup honey with 1/2 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat, stir until the honey is dissolved, then let cool)
Method: Combine all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake well. Serve in a chilled coup and garnish with a rosemary sprig. Briefly hit the rosemary sprig with an open flame from a lighter or match until fragrant.
www. thecharteroak.com
Cooking with KAREN CROUSE
Crêpes, the delicate, paper-thin French pancakes, are a perfect base for both sweet and savory delights. Their light, tender texture transforms desserts, entrées, and even leftovers into gourmet experiences. Whether prepared fresh or made ahead of time, crêpes are a true culinary delight—like a holiday wish come true!
My secrets are to add a touch of sugar to the batter for perfect caramelization and allow the batter to rest, ensuring your crêpes come out ultrathin and irresistibly delicate. Add them to your holiday menu this season for a touch of elegance and a stress-free option!
Effortless Crépes
Yields 8 servings
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
• Blender (Countertop or Hand)
• 8 or 9-inch nonstick pan
• ¼ C measuring cup or ladle
• Whisk
• Wide spatula
INGREDIENTS
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 ¼ C whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 C all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 Tbsp melted butter (cooled)
• 1/2 tsp cold butter (for the pan)
• Confectioner’s sugar (optional for dusting)
FILLING SUGGESTIONS
Sweet: Jams, curds, ice cream, Nutella, pie filling, powdered sugar for topping
Savory: Meats, cheeses, sautéed vegetables, eggs & bacon, smoked salmon, or leftovers
PREPARATION
Add dry ingredients to the blender, then liquids. Blend for 1–2 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Preheat a 9” nonstick skillet over medium heat. Melt 1/2 tsp cold butter, swirl to coat, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Lightly whisk the batter, pour 1/4 cup into the center, and tilt the pan to spread evenly. Cook for 45 seconds per side until golden brown.
Stack cooked crêpes on a plate, covering with a cloth
FOLDING & SERVING
Lay the crêpe flat, add filling on half, fold into a semi-circle, then again into a triangle. Sprinkle dessert crêpes with powdered sugar if desired.
TIP: Crêpes can be made two days ahead. Cool, stack with parchment, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for up to one month.
Twenty years ago, a small-budget film greatly impacted the world of wine. The wine-tasting road trip adventures of Miles and Jack in “Sideways” were filmed almost entirely on-location in the small town of Solvang and neighboring spots around the Santa Ynez Valley. As the longest transverse valley (east/west) along the Western Hemisphere’s Pacific Coast, unique geography hints at the movie’s name.
Released in 2004, “Sideways” fundamentally changed perceptions about this Central Coast wine-growing region by empowering its characters’ lines to influence sales of Pinot Noir (positively) and Merlot (negatively). In Northern Santa Barbara County, wine-centric tourism remains the overall winner, where the “Sideways Wine Trail” is still a thing.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir account for two-thirds of the grapes grown across seven AVAs within Santa Barbara, one of California’s coolest regions. The largest is the Santa Ynez Valley that surrounds Solvang, America’s second oldest AVA. Sandwiched between two mountain ranges, various microclimates, and cool soil types are found in vineyard elevations up to 3,400 feet.
LITTLE DENMARK
Solvang was founded in 1911 when three Danish immigrants fled the harsh midwest winters of Iowa to purchase 9,000 farming acres in “sunny fields.” Today, the village’s distinctly Nordic vibe beckons visitors to enjoy the “Danish Capital of America,” displaying half-timbered buildings, four windmills, a replica of Copenhagen’s landmark The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen and Viking museums, a 19th-century streetcar, and a horse-drawn carriage. For the holidays, a much-anticipated high point in Solvang’s event calendar, everything is decorated in twinkling fairy lights.
DANISH-STYLE JULEFEST
Solvang Julefest is a vibrant family-fun festive extravaganza with music, shopping, food, and drinks staged from Nov. 29, 2024, through Jan. 5, 2025. Traditional
local happenings include the Julefest Tree Lighting weekend (December 6-8), plus costumed strolling Christmas carolers and the Julefest Parade with floats and entertainment. “Nisser Adventure” is a Christmas gnome and elf scavenger hunt downtown. Solvang Park has a nightly Light & Music Show alongside the open-air Makers Market for arts and crafts gifts and popular evening candlelight tours.
www.solvangusa.com/things-to-do/solvang-julefest
During Julefest, weekends offer even more activities for children, such as gathering at Santa’s Village in Solvang Park every Saturday and Sunday for free photos with Father Christmas. In nearby Buellton, a Santa Ynez Valley Cowboy Christmas (through Dec.
the town as visitors join Solvang residents to celebrate with pints of Carlsberg and Tuborg, folk dancing, Danish pastries and æbleskiver, Lego, and more.
www.solvangdanishdays.org
DOWNTOWN SOLVANG WINE TASTING
Without question, sun-soaked Solvang is a year-round food and wine destination. Among more than two dozen tasting rooms, several are located along Mission Drive. Beyond this main drag, check out Copenhagen Drive and several wineries just outside of town.
Dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir of Sta. Rita Hills, Alma Rosa produces delightful Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. At the indoor/outdoor
21) has horseback rides, a petting zoo, an obstacle course, and wooden ornament decorating. Downtown at 2pm on New Year’s Eve, watches are synchronized to European time for the Copenhagen Countdown to midnight. Finally, the annual Solvang Christmas Tree Burn takes place, a large-scale fire safety demonstration scheduled for 5pm on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025.
www.syvcowboychristmas.com
SOLVANG DANISH DAYS
When autumn arrives, everyone in “Little Denmark” is a Dane for a day, dressing up like a shield-maiden or a Viking for the 88th annual Danish heritage festival on Sept. 19-21, 2025. “Skol!” is heard throughout
downtown space open seven days a week on Mission Drive, taste from a selection of five wines, including Rhône varietals Grenache and Syrah, plus sparkling wines. The El Jabali vineyards were planted in 1983 by founder Richard Sanford, the Pinot Noir pioneer of Santa Barbara County, who in 2020 entrusted his legacy to head winemaker Samra Morris, America’s first female Bosnian winemaker. Reflecting the essence of specific vineyard sites, Alma Rosa’s wines are typically produced in small quantities of 300 or fewer cases. Four private experiences are offered at the winery’s 628-acre ranch, the county’s first certified organic vineyard, a few miles away in the Sta. Rita Hills.
www.almarosawinery.com
In addition to sipping outstanding wines from Santa Ynez Valley, guests at McClain Cellars Wine Tasting Lounge are treated to a 36-foot-long fire pit, pool table, and live jazz and blues most weekends. One of the few Black-owned wineries in California, try Owner’s Wine Flight, six wines personally chosen by Jason McClain. Play pool and sample the artisanal popcorn. The Solvang location, one of four in Southern California, is open daily on Mission Drive.
www.mcclaincellars.com
Casa Cassara has been growing grapes and making wine in the Santa Rita Hills and Santa Ynez Valley since the 90’s. Open every day, hosts Bridget and Dan Cassara are often on hand at the tasting room, where they’ve been known to appear as Santa & Mrs Claus. www.ccwinery.com
The Sanger Family of Wines serves tasting flights based on their three core Europeaninspired wine labels: Consilience, Marianello, and Tre Anelli. Open daily except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, there’s a contemporary indoor space and fire pits on the patio. Olive oil tastings, too. www.sangerwines.com/tasting-room/solvang
For more pours on Mission Drive, Crawford Family Wines Tasting Room shares their micro-production Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and other Rhône varietals. Dascomb Cellars is another local family wine enterprise with a tasting room and a wine shop. The Good Life Cellar, Kings Carey Wines, Cordon of Santa Barbara, and Arrowsmith’s Wine Bar are also located on Mission Drive. www.crawfordfamilywines.com www.dascombcellars.com
WHERE TO EAT
“Home to Arne’s Famous Aebleskiver” reads the welcome sign at Solvang Restaurant, where “What is that?” is the number one question. Neither a waffle nor a pancake nor a donut, the pastry is shaped like a tennis ball, and the concoction is topped with raspberry jam and a dusting of powdered sugar. Order the Danish Sausage Medisterpolse to make a meal of it.
www.solvangrestaurant.com
Solvang has bakeries galore. For pastries, Napoleons, eclairs, butter cookies, shortbread, and more, head to Mortensen’s Danish Bakery, an old-time café where the
Danish owners have followed recipes from the old country for over 40 years.
www.mortensensbakery.com
Stay in the Scandinavian mood at Red Viking Restaurant, where the menu lists open-faced sandwiches, Frikadeller, Medisterpølse, and Rullepølse. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s been owned and operated by the Olsen family since they moved from Denmark in 1970.
www.theredvikingrestaurant.com
Velkommen! In Solvang’s oldest building, Bit O’ Denmark has been serving fine traditional Danish cuisine for over half a century. Try gravlax and herring to start followed by Flaeskesteg (roast pork stuffed with prunes), the house favorite.
www.bitbarandbistro.com
WHERE TO STAY
The village of Solvang has accommodation options, from a luxury ranch resort to boutique inns. Several have outdoor pools, complimentary breakfast, free parking, EV charging, and pet-friendly policies.
Since 1946, Alisal Ranch has operated this working cattle ranch and as an upscale dude ranch. Over 10,000 acres provide guest activities, including equestrian pursuits, stargazing, fly fishing, canoeing, kayaking, two 18-hole championship golf courses, and six tennis and pickleball courts. Stays of two nights or longer.
www.alisalranch.com
Mirabelle Inn is home to MICHELIN Guidelisted First & Oak for fine dining. The 12-room boutique hotel has free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. Under the landmark clock tower in downtown Solvang, Wine Valley Inn & Cottages offers a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and no resort fees. Hotel Corque has views of the surrounding wine country and mountains, yet is in the downtown core. Craft House at Corque offers on-site dining.
www.mirabelleinn.com // www.winevalleyinn.com www.corquehotel.com
Planning to Sell Your Home in 2025? START PREPPING NOW
If you’re considering selling your home in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and next year, getting ahead with updates and repairs can set you up for success in selling your property. As someone with deep roots in this beautiful region and decades of experience helping clients maximize property value, I’m here to guide you through some essential steps to get your home market-ready to achieve the best price and a quick sale.
Elevate Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, especially in real estate. When potential buyers drive up to your property, you want them to feel the charm and presence of your home right from the start. Consider giving your yard a seasonal refresh—trim the hedges, add vibrant flowers, and lay down fresh mulch. A quick exterior wash and a new coat of paint for the front door can also create an updated, polished look. This is all about showcasing the best your property offers right off the bat; these simple updates can make a huge difference.
Declutter and Depersonalize
Buyers want to envision themselves living in your space, and that’s tough to do when
it’s filled with too many personal touches. Start decluttering now—pack away those extra knick-knacks, clear out closets, and even consider putting a few pieces of furniture in storage to create a sense of openness. The goal is to create a canvas allowing buyers to picture their lives unfolding in the space. I always recommend keeping the aesthetic clean and simple while highlighting the lifestyle the buyer could have in their new home.
Make Necessary Repairs and Updates
Nowadays, no one wants to walk into a prospective home and see a to-do list of repairs. Address any lingering maintenance issues, like leaky faucets, peeling paint, or loose doorknobs. While you don’t have to undergo a complete remodel, strategic updates can yield a significant return on investment. Consider refreshing bathrooms with new hardware, painting walls in neutral tones, or installing energy-efficient light fixtures. Depending on your property and what’s trending in the market, your trusted local real estate agent can guide you on which updates are worth your time and investment. For instance, a minor kitchen upgrade might have a bigger payoff than a full-scale renovation.
Partner with a Trusted Local Agent
A successful sale isn’t just about how your home looks; it’s also about having the right strategy. That’s where your trusted local agent with deep market knowledge becomes invaluable. With over three decades in Napa Valley, I know what buyers are looking for and how to position your home to attract the highest offers. From staging tips to pricing strategies, I’m here to ensure your home shines and stands out in the competitive market.
Beyond the logistics, I bring a vast network of trusted vendors—whether you need a painter, landscaper, or stager, I’ve got you covered. My goal is to provide a seamless experience that takes the stress out of selling and maximizes your home’s value.
Bottom Line
Preparing your home for a 2025 sale might feel like a distant task, but starting the process now will take some of the pressure off later. By focusing on curb appeal, decluttering, making strategic updates, and partnering with an expert agent, you’ll position your home to shine in the Napa Valley market. Let’s get ahead of the curve and work together to upgrade your real estate experience.
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
ELIZABETH SHAW
GenZ Abstract Artist
BY CHRIS ANDREWS | PHOTOS COURTESY ELIZABETH SHAW|
At the tender age of 22, Elizabeth Shaw has already begun making a name for herself in the world of art. Inspired by the natural beauty of Napa Valley and born into a family of musicians and visual artists, Shaw has had the benefit of exceptional surroundings and a strong aptitude for all things creative.
Shaw’s grandmother, painter and sculptor Dawn Andrews, was well known in art circles in New York in the late 60s and 70s, was close friends with Helen Frankenthaler, and a frequent collaborator on many large oil canvases with her partner, renowned abstract expressionist painter, Jules Olitski.
Napa Valley is fertile ground for many artistic endeavors, be they in the culinary arts, the art of winemaking, or visual art. In addition to the valley’s internationally acclaimed food and wine scene, the area is also a magnet for world-class visual artists and writers and a watering hole for touring musicians in every genre. Growing up in the valley, Shaw was immersed in all of this. Her parents were professional musicians (her mother was also a designer), and she grew up around other friends and family who were either musicians or visual artists. Shaw was surrounded by art — at home, at various art studios where she studied, and at the many institutions she frequented throughout her formative years — the Hess Collection, di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, the DeYoung Museum, and the Crocker Art Museum.
Shaw showed a natural inclination toward visual arts early on and was amply supplied with all manner of art-making supplies, basically whatever was required, as she experimented with every genre imaginable. She quickly moved from textile arts to collage-making to jewelry and accessories, acrylic and oil painting, charcoal and pencil drawings, copic
marker portraits, photography, functional and artistic ceramics, and found-object creations. In the development of her artistic technique, Shaw studied art at Studio 25
(Sonoma), Mendocino Art Center, Nimbus Arts (St. Helena), Napa High School, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan, and most recently at Napa Valley College, where she was an art major. Shaw now has her fulltime art studio in downtown Napa.
Shaw’s current focus is on oil painting (abstracts and portraiture) and vibrant acrylics, some with mixed media. She has been experimenting with various expressive styles, some with strong geometric rhythm, others with a softer and more ethereal voice, and others with tender natural overtones and patterns. Current influences on her evolving style include Bauhaus, David Hockney, Helen Frankenthaler, and, on some occasions, Salvador Dali.
Shaw is also a budding entrepreneur, having launched two business ventures in the two years, one for her craft jewelry, which has been very popular at the Napa and St. Helena Farmer’s Markets and online, the other for her art prints and custom portraiture. Her original works can be purchased directly through the artist, as can limited edition prints. FOR
THE NEW YEAR
Embrace a Lifestyle, Not a Resolution
BY SUSAN L RICHARDS, MS, RDN, LDN
The new year is approaching, a time when people take stock of their lives and well-being. Some may choose to make resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, spend more time with family and friends, and get more sleep. What if instead of making promises to change that are often short-lived, there was a way to improve health and longevity by embracing a new way of living? This year, choose to embrace the lifelong benefits of a Blue Zones and Mediterranean lifestyle.
THE BLUE ZONES LIFESTYLE
The Blue Zones lifestyle is a product of research and travel by writer Dan Buettner and a team of National Geographic longevity researchers who wanted to determine where populations had the greatest longevity in the world. Their findings revealed that people with a purpose in life, a close circle of friends, engaged in daily physical activity, ate a primarily plant-based diet, and drank a modest amount of red wine seemed to live longer, up to six years longer than elsewhere.
In 2008, Dan published his first of many books, The Blue Zones. It detailed the locations and lifestyles of individuals who lived productive and healthy lives well into their ninth or tenth decade. The term Blue Zone comes from the color of the ink the team used to circle the areas on the globe with the highest life expectancy, and it included populations in Greece, Italy, Japan, Costa Rica, and Loma Linda, California. Ultimately, Dan and the team of demographers and researchers found that all blue zone areas share nine specific lifestyle habits that they call the Power of 9 (see sidebar). These are the key ingredients to what Dan and his colleagues consistently saw across the communities with healthy aging.
Over twenty years later, the Blue Zones lifestyle has grown into a community-based population health intervention program called Project Blue Zones. Co-founded by Ben R. Leedle, Jr. and Dan Buettner, Project Blue Zones focuses on community transformation programs that lower healthcare costs, improve productivity, and enhance community health. In the United States, over 75 communities, including Upper Napa Valley, are certified by the Blue Zones Project.
THE MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE
The Mediterranean diet is regarded as one of the healthiest ways to eat. Based on the traditional cuisine and habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, it is also considered as much a lifestyle as it is a way of eating. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2019, interest in the Mediterranean diet surged when medical studies observed that the rate of heart disease in countries such as Greece and Italy was lower than in other regions worldwide. The major contributors to these results were quickly identified as the right balance of healthy food and a slower, quality pace to each day.
The Mediterranean diet has no specific definition and is similar to the Blue Zones diet.
SUMMARY OF BLUE ZONES POWER 9 Lifestyle Habits of the World’s Healthiest, Longest-Lived People
1. MOVE NATURALLY
The world’s longestlived people live in environments that constantly nudge them into moving without thinking about it, like doing yard and housework or walking to the post office or market.
2. PURPOSE
Having a purpose in life. The Okinawans call it “Ikigai,” meaning “why I wake up in the morning.” A sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of extra life expectancy.
3. DOWNSHIFT
Stress leads to chronic inflammation, associated with every major agerelated disease. The world’s longest-lived people have routines to shed that stress. They manage stress by napping, praying, and gathering with friends.
4. 80% RULE
“Hara hachi bu”–the Confucian mantra to stop eating when the stomach is 80 percent full. The 20% gap between not being hungry and feeling full could help maintain a healthy weight.
5. PLANT SLANT
Beans, including fava, black, soy, and lentils, are the cornerstone of most centenarian diets. Meat is eaten on average only five times monthly. Serving sizes are 3-4 oz., about the size of a deck of cards.
6. WINE @ 5
People in all blue zones (except Adventists) drink alcohol moderately and regularly. Moderate drinkers outlive non-drinkers. They drink 1-2 glasses of red wine daily, with friends and usually with food.
Details at www.Bluezones.com
7. BELONG
All but five of the 263 centenarians interviewed belonged to some faith-based community. Denomination does not seem to matter. Research shows that attending faithbased services four times monthly will add 4-14 years of life expectancy.
8. LOVED ONES FIRST
Successful centenarians in the blue zones put their families first. This means keeping aging parents and grandparents nearby or in the home. They commit to a life partner and invest in their children with time and love.
9. RIGHT TRIBE
The world’s longest-lived people chose or were born into social circles that supported healthy behaviors; Okinawans created ”moais”–groups of five friends committed to each other for life. The social networks of longlived people have favorably shaped their health behaviors.
The basics of following a Mediterranean diet involve eating vegetables, fruits, and whole grains every day, consuming fish, poultry, and eggs only two to three times per week, keeping to a small weekly consumption of dairy products such as cheese, butter, and milk, and significantly limiting the intake of red and processed meat.
There is also red wine. Drinking a glass of red wine has been associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease due to the naturally occurring polyphenols that protect the body’s cells from harmful free radicals. Even with this potential benefit, though, it is essential to remember that consuming alcohol has its risks and should be based on your personal health status. The American Heart Association recommends that if you do not drink, do not start.
Paired with healthy eating, exercise and relaxation are also integral to the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle. Midday and evening meals are usually savored, not rushed, while friends and family enjoy each other’s company. In much of Europe, restaurants close from 3 to 7pm so families and friends can gather, relax, and eat a healthy meal—a custom that the United States could benefit from adopting. After eating, families often go for a short walk together to digest their meals before returning to work.
Not all Mediterranean cultures embrace this pause in productivity, but much can be learned from it. As staring at screens and being online 24/7 now dominates so much of life, taking time with good friends and family, eating mindfully, and getting a small amount of exercise and “downtime” each day could improve overall health no matter where one lives.
Making a lifestyle change can be daunting. Start by making one or two changes at a time to your diet or daily routine. Find a friend or two to join you in embracing a new lifestyle. The Oldways organization is a food and nutrition nonprofit that provides information, resources, recipes, events, and more to help people live healthier lives through cultural food traditions, including the Mediterranean diet. // www.oldwaysPT.org
See the sidebar box for guidance on implementing a healthier lifestyle that can be maintained for life.
EMBRACE A MEDITERRANEAN LIFESTYLE
FOOD AND DRINK: The Basics
Every day: Vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts. Whole grain bread, cereal, rice, and pasta.
Two to Three times per week: Fish, poultry, eggs.
Moderately: Dairy products such as cheese, butter, and milk. Use mostly 1-2% fat. Limit: Red meat and processed meats.
Wine: A 5-oz glass of red wine is optional and should be consumed only if wine is currently a part of the diet.
Suggestions for Implementation
• Slowly add beans, whole grains, and legumes to the diet. Reduce red meat and cold cuts.
• Cook one vegetarian meal a week and increase it to two or more over time.
• Switch out whole milk cheeses for low-fat ricotta, feta, goat cheese, and halloumi.
• Use olive and avocado oil for cooking and baking.
• Instead of white rice and pasta, try couscous, farro, millet, quinoa, polenta, and brown rice.
• Use herbs and spices to add exciting flavors and dimension to meals.
EXERCISE: Move daily for 30 minutes and mix it up with different daily activities.
• Schedule a regular walk with a companion or friend.
• Do housework: Vacuum, do laundry, wash windows, change the sheets, do dishes.
• Run, bike, play tennis, or take up Pickleball. Join a gym or YMCA that is close to work or home.
• Get a stand-up desk or treadmill desk.
• Take a window shopping walk at the local mall.
COMMUNITY: Plan regular interaction with others over meals, shared interests, or through exercise.
• Form a Mediterranean diet dinner club, cook meals together, and try new foods and recipes.
• Meet up at a plant-based Mediterranean restaurant and then take a walk.
• Join a book, investment, bridge, walking, or other type of club that meets regularly.
• Volunteer at a local food pantry, town library, or civic organization.
REST: Plan quiet time into your day
• Shut off all electronics for at least 30 minutes.
• Read a book or magazine.
• Do a puzzle.
• Take a short 15-minute nap.
• Meditate.
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
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.
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
Their
Beer Company
over 30 local craft beers and many guest taps. They boast 16 big screen TV’s, weekend brunch and a popular happy hour.
THE GRILL AT
THE LINCOLN An elevated American gastropub in Napa, The Lincoln serves up inspired cocktails and fresh takes on classic dishes, all with scenic views of the Napa River. With late-night hours, cozy firepits, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for any party size, offering walk-in availability. Explore a menu filled with comfort food, sandwiches, healthy choices, and a dedicated kid’s menu.
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.
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