WINERY MAPS • DINING • THINGS TO DO • CALENDAR OF EVENTS
WINERY MAPS
• Whitehall Lane’s New Garden Pavillion
• Master BBQ & Wine Pairings
• NapaSport SteakHouse
• Frank Family Vineyards x 4ocean
World-class wines of elegance, complexity, structure and balance.
At Sequoia Grove Winery, we beli eve that Cabernet Sauvi gnon and other red wines work with a m uch wider variety of dishes than the traditional red wine, red m eat “rules.” Our philosophy for wine and food pairings focuses on m aking thoughtful a dj ust m ents to di shes in order to preserve or enhance the flavors of the wine. Settle in and enjoy tasting top-tier Single Vineyard and Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon expertly paired with a variety of cuisines prepared by in-house wine and food expert, Executive Chef Spencer Conaty.
ENJO Y . INSPIRE.
A TASTE FOR CABERNET WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE
Taste exceptional vineyard designate Napa Valley Cabernet paired with dishes crafted by wine and food expert, Chef Spencer
CAMBIUM VERTICAL – Discover the rich layers of Sequoia Grove’s four decades in the Napa Valley as you taste through a selection of our carefully cellared flagship wine paired with artisan cheeses
WINE + BITES – This experience offers a small taste of everything Sequoia Grove has to offer with a curated selection of wines paired with thoughtful, delicious bites crafted by Chef Spencer
TASTE OF SEQUOIA GROVE – Relax and sip through a flight of our most popular wines, including our coveted Rutherford Bench Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon along with single-vineyard and Napa Valley reds
Wednesday - Monday, 10 am - 5 pm 8338 St. Helena Highway, Napa, CA 94558
Discover our Roots in Pinot Noir
Sustainable farming results in better, higher quality wine, and ensures the viability of our estate for generations to come.
Taste incredible Pinot Noirs from five growing regions
Join us in Carneros!
From Heirloom Pinot Noir to small-lot Napa Valley Cabernet and customer favorite Pinot Gris, we’ve been crafting award-winning wines for over 40 years.
Best Pinot Noir, Napa Valley
2020 Heirloom Pinot Noir – 97 points!
WHAT’S INSIDE
On the Cover: Wellington Cellars
Soaring to the Top of its Game
A Sonoma Valley favorite for decades, Wellington Cellars has undergone an incredible transformation thanks to the Belmonte family of the very popular and picturesque VJB Cellars in Kenwood. The Belmontes have brought the same level of charm and hospitality to Wellington, all while adding an undeniably elevated slate of incredible wines.
STEAKHOUSE Not your average sports bar 22 | BBQ SEASON
Master the Art of Grilling and Wine Pairing
26 | WHAT’S NEW AND NOTABLE
• Welcoming Chef Spencer Conaty Sequoia Grove Winery
• An Exceptional Culinary Experience at Ember Steak, Napa
• New, Non-Alcoholic Offerings at Meadowcrof Wines, Kenwood
| FARMHOUSE INN
beacon of elevated hospitality and comfortable luxury’
| BROADWAY AND VINE
NapaSport SteakHouse
Not Your Average Sports Bar
Having managed Michelin-starred establishments globally for Morimoto, and Napa institutions such as Don Giovanni and Bottega, Michael leveraged his expertise in haute cuisine to give rise to the muchneeded affordability and accessibility a neighborhood locale could provide.
WHAT’S INSIDE
ONE FAMILY’S PASSION … THREE UNIQUE PROPERTIES
ESTATE GROWN ITALIAN VARIETALS
Come and enjoy our award-winning wines, delicious wood-fired pizza, full-service Italian deli, marketplace, gelato and so much more! 60 Shaw Ave, Kenwood • 707-833-2300
ESTATE GROWN FRENCH VARIETALS AND 125 YEAR OLD ZINFANDEL
Walk-ins welcome. Reservations recommended.
11600 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen • 707-934-8604
KENWOOD RANCH
A
WINE COUNTRY WEDDING VENUE
The perfect setting for celebrating any of life’s beautiful moments. Sonoma Highway, Kenwood • 707-833-2300
SINCE 1981
PO BOX 92, EL VERANO, CA 95433
707-938-1783
www.WineCountryThisMonth.com
OWNER/PUBLISHER
Chandra Grant
Chandra@WineCountryThisMonth.com
707-938-1783
SUBSCRIPTIONS
ANNUAL: $60 per year : : SINGLE COPY: $5
Send check to Visit Wine Country LLC PO Box 92, El Verano CA 95433
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Jillian Baker PJ Clark
Stephanie Cullen
Yvonne Horn
Laura Ness
Jody Purdom
Tanya Seibold
Donald Sonderling
Melissa Vogt
ADVERTISING
Napa Valley > RoseAnn Trzesniewski rmtrue@comcast.net 707-334-1930
Sonoma Valley & Carneros > Cathi Wastal cathi.wastal@gmail.com 707-815-4070
North/West Sonoma County > Colleen Garrow ColleenGarrow@gmail.com 707-327-9770
Samantha Stevens
Samantha@WineCountryThisMonth.com 707-225-7325
Lake County > Jim Cates jim_wctm@yahoo.com 707-695-9550
Lodi, Livermore, Sierra Foothills > Len Napolitano lsnapoli@earthlink.net 805-712-4471
www.WineCountryThisMonth.com
Sit back and enjoy exciting new tasting experiences featuring a mix selection of white and red wines as an upgrade to our classic Cabernet tasting.
Rutherford Dust Tasting
Come to BV in the heart of Napa Valley and delve into 4 Cabernet Sauvignons that perfectly showcase the magic that is Rutherford Dust.
The Legacy Experience
You will be guided through our iconic wines including Georges de Latour and Madame de Latour. This private tasting includes a selection of reserve wines and a tour of the historic winery.
We look forward to hosting you!
Wellington Cellars Soars to the Top of Its Game
BY JODY PURDOM
ASonoma Valley favorite for decades, Wellington Cellars has undergone an incredible transformation thanks to the Belmonte family of the very popular and picturesque VJB Cellars in Kenwood. The Belmontes have brought the same level of charm and hospitality to Wellington, all while adding an undeniably elevated slate of incredible wines.
Purchasing the 25-acre property in 2014, father and son duo, Vittorio and Henry were first and foremost interested in adding a production facility to make VJB Cellars wines. “I wasn’t looking for another label or tasting room,” said Henry Belmonte. But the facility and its proximity to VJB were too good to pass up. The first task – revamp what he called the ‘tired vineyards.’
To us, hosting guests at both Wellington Cellars and VJB Cellars is like inviting people in our home. The aesthetic is warm and welcoming. We want visitors to relax, take a moment to drink in not just our outstanding wines but the ambiance of the winery as well as that of the entire wine country experience. –
“We decided to replant all of the vines with the exception of the Old Vine Zinfandel, which would have been a shame as it was originally planted in 1882.” The new Wellington team moved in and officially began selling their own wines beginning in 2016. Over the course of the next six years, Belmonte set about creating an aesthetic that is new, fresh and pretty fantastic on the sprawling Glen Ellen property.
Today, the portfolio boasts a beautiful array of French Bordeauxstyle wines. Whites include sparkling Rosé, as well as estate Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and a White Rhône Blend. Reds are where Wellington really shines and wines run the gamut from an Estate Vin de Campagne, several estate-grown Old Vine Zinfandels, a fruity Grenache, to Malbec, Petite Sirah, and more. The wines truly need to be sampled for full appreciation of the time and care that have gone into overhauling the wine program.
Outstanding Wines in a Comfortable Environment
Speaking of overhauls, the tasting room has been graced with a complete renovation. Over the course of two long years, the Belmontes set out to create the same sort of warm ambiance that has defined VJB Cellars. Leaving almost no stone unturned, they built a beautiful tasting room evocative of a tiny French village. The incredible stone tasting room is the first thing visitors see as they wind up the driveway past the pruned and trellised Old Vine Zinfandel. Straight out of the French countryside, the welcoming edifice is like a warm embrace. Guests can also visit the new barrel room and original open-air barn.
Inside the tasting room, guests are treated to top-notch hospitality. When it comes to the guest experience, the family spares no expense. Henry wants guests to receive the highest level of attention so that they feel like family in the relaxed atmosphere of the lounge-style tasting room. Sofas festoon the space and bar seating at the counter invites guests to linger over their tasting.
The tasting room is open 10 am to 5 pm every day and reservations are recommended but not necessary. There are different experiences to meet a variety of tastes including the beautiful tasting room, the verdant vineyard, or the shady and fragrant olive grove.
Visit Wellington Cellars Open Daily 10 am to 5 pm 11600 Dunbar Road, Glen Ellen 707-934-8604 wellingtoncellars.com
HENRY BELMONTE
Whitehall Lane Winery Napa Family Values
Set to the west of Highway 29, just past the iconic Ink House , the relaxed and unpretentious family owned and operated Whitehall Lane property feels far removed from the constant busyness of Napa Valley. It’s quiet stealth hides three unique features that make this place, run by three generations of the Leonardini family, so worth visiting.
New Garden Pavilion
First, the vast outdoor Garden Pavilion tasting area, completely hidden from the front entrance and the tasting room, is a tree and vineyard-lined oasis. To get there, you walk through the vineyards to a lovely spot where you can enjoy wine tasting and a picnic, if you brought one. Here, you’ll enjoy views of the Mayacamas Mountains, with vineyards perched on their flanks, while you taste an excellent 2021 Sonoma Valley Chardonnay or a 2022 Swan Clone Pinot Noir from their Sonoma Stage Vineyard in the Petaluma Gap. Big Cab lovers will thrill to the cherry tobacco, sage and crème de cassis of the 2020 Leonardini Vineyard clone 8 Cabernet. Enjoy these wines from one of the swinging love seats in the Garden Pavilion, while the huge American flag flutters above, and birds flit through the vines. Peaceful and serene, the calm is occasionally punctuated by the toot-toot of the horn as the Napa Wine Train goes by.
Admire the label of the 2020 Mancino, a 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, which is something of a Rorshach test: some see an angel, others a dog or cat. Laden with dark chocolate covered blueberries, blackberry liqueur and maraschino cherries, it’s got a remarkably soft finish for such a powerful wine. Like all the Whitehall Lane wines, it possesses both accessibility and age-worthy structure.
Club Room
Second, for club members and for Winery Exclusive Flight bookings, there is a well-appointed two-level Club Room,
complete with a kitchen, that provides food for club events. The best seat in the house might just be the deck above the small produce garden, overlooking the vineyards to the west. The Winery Exclusive Flight includes 5 limited production wines, accompanied by a small cheese plate ($60). A Napa Cabernet Exclusive Flight, served with cheese, is also available ($90). These experiences can also be enjoyed in the Garden Pavilion.
Red Stella Scooter
Third, there’s an utterly adorable red Stella scooter with sidecar, perfect for those ubiquitous selfies. Parked just outside the Lion’s Cage, where older vintages are stored, the scooter was purchased by owner, Tom Leonardini, in celebration of his
Katie Leonardini, Winemaker Jason Moulton and Tom Leonardini, Jr.
Whitehall Lane’s beautiful Garden Pavilion resulted from the demise of a hundred year old barn that was beyond repair. In its place is an oasis of tranquility, a grassy lawn populated with comfortable seating areas, cushioned swings big enough for two and Adirondack chairs, beckoning you to relax over a flight or bottle of wine. Whether you came for the lawn games or the view, the Garden Pavilion may become your new favorite place to escape reality for just a little bit, as you ponder the smooth depth of a Leonardini Cabernet or the tiny, nose-tickling bubbles of the Petaluma Gap Blanc de Noirs.
family’s Italian heritage. You can even don a pair of goggles, as his daughter, Katie Leonardini, Vice President of Operations did, on a recent visit.
Upstairs in the Club Room area there’s a photo of huge family gathering, taken in a San Francisco restaurant. She points to her grandfather, so young, his life still ahead of him. This is wholeheartedly a family operation, and one of the few remaining in Napa Valley today. Yet it was one Katie didn’t embrace right away. “I majored in Poli Sci in college, and worked briefly as a teacher before getting into financial services,” she says. “I moved to Philadelphia while pregnant with twins, and 4 years later came back here to California with three little kids. The winery pulled me in. I knew I was ready.”
As we walked through the cellar, Katie introduced me to her son, William, who was helping to ready barrels for bottling. After graduating from Cornell, he spent time working harvests at Louis Martini, then in South Africa. He is currently working alongside winemaker, Jason Moulton, before he heads to Paso Robles to work at Denner Winery for the 2024 harvest. Winemaker Moulton’s worldwide background includes working with legends Philippe Melka and David Ramey, and time spent in cellars from Bordeaux to Canada. He’s happily at home in Rutherford.
Katie’s brother, Tom Jr., runs the winery’s national and international sales and marketing organization. As we toured the cellar, we also came across Tom Leonardini the 3rd. “Tommy” as they refer to him, is Whitehall Lane’s Cellar Master. Tommy and William enjoy working side by side in production.
Katie says winemaker Moulton has brought a lot to the operation since he joined Whitehall Lane in 2016. “He asked me what we should add to our lineup and I said ‘Sparkling!’ This is the third year we’ve done it.” All hand riddled in house, the 2022 Blanc de Noirs from Petaluma Gap is a standout, with its pale lilac-rose color and aromas of pink grapefruit and cranberry,
followed by delicate bursts of rhubarb, cranberry and wild strawberries on the palate. It comes from the Sonoma Stage Vineyard, and is made entirely from pinot noir clone 115.
When Tom Leonardini Sr. purchased the Whitehall Lane property in 1993, after selling off his car rental franchises, he inherited a winery with a good reputation for Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, that had access to some prime Napa vineyards. Leonardini tirelessly sought to expand those holdings and bolster the reputation begun by a family from Southern California that planted the vineyard here back in 1979. He’s done so with the help of GM Mike McLoughlin, who happened to walk into the winery right after Leonardini purchased it, asking if they needed help. Tom Sr. gave him a job on the spot, and he’s been there since.
In addition to the estate vineyard, which is 23 acres, the Leonardini family now owns seven other vineyards in Napa and Sonoma counties for a total of 200 acres. Their case production is about 35k and there are five core wines that make up 80 percent of their production, which is distributed nationwide. The rest of the wines are small lots, including Semillon, vineyard designate Cabernets, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The winery is open for tastings seven days a week. Tastings start at $50. Definitely ask to sit out in the garden. There are six Adirondack chairs with a killer view of the very western edge of Napa Valley as it meets the Mayacamas, where you can drink a toast to one of the true family owned and operated wineries left in Napa.
WHITEHALL LANE WINERY
1563 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574
Open daily 10am-5:30pm
707-963-9454 • whitehalllane.com
BY LAURA NESS
Making an Ocean of Difference
Frank Family Vineyards’ new partnership with 4ocean removes one pound of plastic with every bottle purchased
To commemorate World Ocean Month in June, Frank Family Vineyards’ founders Rich and Leslie Frank announced that the winery’s annual “Frank for a Cause” campaign will benefit 4ocean in its mission to help end the ocean plastic crisis. Through July 2025, proceeds from Frank Family’s Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Carneros Chardonnay as well as exclusive “Frank for a Cause” packages will fund the removal of at least 25,000 pounds of plastic and trash from the world’s oceans, rivers and coastlines. The 4ocean “Frank for a Cause” packages will be sold in the tasting room and online at FrankFamilyVineyards.com and include one bottle of the 2021 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or 2022 Carneros Chardonnay and a custom Frank Family x 4ocean bracelet. Each bracelet is made from recovered ocean plastic by local artisans on the tropical island of Bali and pull an additional five pounds of trash from the ocean while also helping employ full-time boat captains and crew.
“With every drop we drink, we are connected to the ocean - it regulates our climate, supplies food, creates jobs, and drives economic growth,” says Leslie Frank. “As vintners, Rich and I believe that caring for our land is our deepest honor and most important work and we are excited to continue Frank Family’s living legacy by supporting 4ocean in eliminating plastic pollution, one bottle at a time.”
4ocean has been leading the clean ocean movement since 2017, with more than 36 million pounds of plastic waste and other man-made debris recovered from the world’s oceans, rivers, and coastlines through the company’s efforts. With 100% of profits supporting its mission, 4ocean is committed to raising awareness about ocean plastic
pollution, reducing the need for virgin plastics in the future and funding its global ocean cleanup operations.
This yearlong initiative will kick off July 2024, featuring community beach cleanup events across the country to encourage Frank Family’s nationwide fanbase to take action together. Cleanup events will span from Florida to the Bay Area, targeting locations where the winery can maximize its impact. Event dates and details will be added to FrankFamilyVineyards. com/philanthropy/4ocean.
“Working alongside organizations like Frank Family Vineyards is integral to our mission at 4ocean. As a certified cleanup partner, the winery offers immediate support to the regions most affected by ocean trash,” says 4ocean co-founder and CEO, Alex Schulze. “The winery’s effort contributes to the improvement of ecosystem health and vulnerable communities. With Frank Family Vineyards on board, we’re one step closer to tackling the ocean plastic crisis.”
For more than three decades, Frank Family Vineyards has remained steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and giving back. For Frank Family, being green involves earth-tobottle 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 maintains sustainability certifications across 100% of its owned and leased operations and was awarded 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 Family continues to integrate environmentally and socially responsible practices into everyday business, achieving a higher standard of sustainability year after year.
Founded in 2018, the winery’s Frank for a Cause campaign has raised funds to support local and national charities covering a variety of causes, such as medical research, hunger relief, ecological revitalization, animal welfare, and more.
For more information about Frank Family’s partnership with 4ocean or to purchase Frank for A Cause packages, visit FrankFamilyVineyards.com/philanthropy or follow @frankfamilyvineyards on Instagram using the hashtag #FrankForACause.
www.frankfamilyvineyards.com
www.4ocean.com
NAPASPORT STEAKHOUSE
Don’t let the name fool you. NapaSport SteakHouse is not your average sports bar.
BY TANYA SEIBOLD
And it certainly doesn’t fit the traditional “oldschool steakhouse” model either. Michael Galyen, his wife Krista, and their family have created the perfect modern hybrid of the two. Since opening the restaurant in March 2018, Galyen brought the best of both worlds to the south end of Napa, a historically underserved fine dining desert. Located in the South Napa Century Center, this polished steakhouse with an open kitchen and intimate dining room is surrounded by bespoke dark wood and leather finishes and effortlessly blurs the lines of a fine dining restaurant and an upscaled sports-themed eatery. Complete with an authentic gymnasium basketball court for the flooring, the lounge area boasts a 28-seat bar with a giant scoreboard and eight, 55-inch TVs overhead for maximum adrenaline-pulsing viewing of your favorite sports team, seven days a week.
Having managed Michelin-starred establishments globally for Morimoto, and Napa institutions such as Don Giovanni and Bottega, Michael leveraged his expertise in haute cuisine to give rise to the much-needed affordability and accessibility a neighborhood locale could provide. His goal is to serve the true Napa locals by offering value alongside thoughtful service and the highest quality ingredients whilst still drawing in out-oftowners looking for exceptional food, drink, and ambiance.
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Classics Meet Cutting-Edge
The back of the house team is led by Chef Jose Gonalez who showcases the inventiveness of California cuisine partnered with all the classics you’d expect at a cosmopolitan steakhouse. For smaller bites, diners can choose from an eclectic offering of barbequed pork sliders, their house-version of Napa nachos, deep fried Shishito Peppers, Fritto Misto, chicken wings, and a variety of salads. Headlining the main event is Certified Angus Beef ®, handcut prime rib, Wagyu beef burgers, surf and turf options, and all the requisite side dishes like mashed potatoes done three ways: butter, truffle, and garlic; coleslaw, sauteed greens or mixed vegetables, pasta dishes, kid’s meals, and so much more. And unlike most steakhouses, your steak entrée comes with two sides and a sauce included. Save room for sweets and enjoy their famous pies and carrot cake, lovingly baked by Michael’s mother who heads up the dessert menu.
The wine list leans primarily Californian featuring prominent big red and luscious white producers, and with Michael’s connections in the business, he has access to vintages and rare bottlings that you simply won’t find elsewhere. Their mixology program showcases over 30 whiskeys and other premium liquors in seasonal cocktails, along with tap beers and local microbrews. Don’t miss their daily Happy Hour from 11am to 5pm featuring $5 draft beers.
Catering
Up your game offsite and have NapaSport SteakHouse cater your next event. The restaurant offers a full catering menu with a variety of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts for any sized personal or professional gathering.
Host an event
If you’re looking to host a private gathering, their glass-walled dining space adjacent to the main dining room continues the tasteful sports theme with a table made from a reclaimed bowling alley lane and seats up to 12 people. From intimate family celebrations to business functions, this unique party space keeps the crowds away while still feeling connected to all the action.
For outdoor options, their patio dining can accommodate up to 40 people and it’s where you can enjoy an outdoor stage featuring live music on Saturdays, 6pm-9pm from May to September.
Back inside, the main Sports Lounge is designed with an infinity bar, 14 HDTVs, private and extra-large booths, low and high-top tables and is ideal for small or large gatherings.
NAPASPORT STEAKHOUSE
Reservations: napasportsteakhouse.com
Attire: wine country casual
145 Gasser Drive Suite A, Napa, CA 94559 (707) 927-5956
Monday - Thursday: 11am - 9pm
Friday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm
Sunday: 11am - 9pm
Master the Art of Grilling and Wine Pairing
BBQ Season
By Tanya Seibold
Grilling season is here so it’s time to dust off the barbecue and start enjoying expertly paired wines with your meats, seafood, and the seemingly endless supply of summer produce from the garden. We’ve taken the guess work out of the wine pairing to ensure your stylish dining al fresco or casual backyard barbecues are easy and delicious.
For the carnivores cooking with fire, first, think about how you’re preparing the meat. Is it marinaded? Dry rubbed? Will it be served with a sweet, spicy, or vinegar-based sauce? Are you smoking or grilling it? Rule of thumb when cooking meats/ poultry/seafood, is to use your rubs, sauces, and glazes to dictate the wine. The combination of spices and herbs, or sauces, will have much more of an effect on how the wine tastes rather than specific protein itself.
Pairing Sauces, Marinades & Rubs
Sweet Sauce
To complement the inherent sugars of a Honey BBQ, Maple BBQ, or classic Chicago or Kansas City sauce with a brown sugar and tomato base, reach for a fruity (but not fortified) wine.
RED: Choose a berry-flavor layered Zinfandel, bright Pinot Noir, or any lighter bodied red wines without heavy oak and tannins.
WHITE: An off-dry white like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, a voluptuous Viognier, Malvasia Bianca or any aromatic white blend with juicy tropical notes and a hint of residual roundness and subtle sweetness will counteract any heat in a sweeter or sweet/hot sauce.
Best Bites
Kansas City barbecued pork ribs and all the sides – macaroni and cheese, potato salad, baked beans, white bread, pickles, coleslaw.
Spicy Sauce … with heat
For spicy black pepper or heavy chili pepper-based sauces like a South Carolina style, try a wine with medium body and acidity will help temper the heat.
RED: Look for a medium-bodied red like Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Beaujolais Nouveau, or 100% Merlot. All have cherry notes, herb flavors, and medium-high acidity to cool the palate when heat is present.
WHITE: Try a sharp, dry varietal like a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Albariño, or Argentinian Torrontés, Portuguese Vinho Verde or Loureiro.
Best Bites
Carolina sauce with smoked chicken and coleslaw.
Spicy Sauce … with spices
A “spicy” sauce doesn’t necessarily mean “hot”. It can be laden with a collection of herbaceous and aromatic spices. It may not be smokin’ on the temperature scale, but it may have a rich palate of smokey flavors from the wood and grill like paprika, chili powder, chipotle, turmeric or allium notes from sweet onion powder, garlic powder, and so on. The trick is to match these fragrant sauces with like flavors to complement, not contrast.
RED: Use the tannins in a heartier red to enhance the smokey, charred, or wood flavors from smoked or grilled meats and veggies. Think earthy and rich fruit with Cabernet Sauvignon (or Cabernet blend), Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Pinotage, or full-bodied Syrah.
WHITE: Mineral, tropical, stonefruit notes of a California Sauvignon Blanc or Fume Blanc, Chardonnay, and alike will leverage the smokey or vegetal notes well.
Best Bites
Grilled vegetables, crispy tofu, condiment for black bean veggie burger
PAIR WITH
South
PAIR WITH
Pairing Sauces, Marinades & Rubs
Vinegar-based Sauce
North Carolina and Memphis-style barbecue sauces have a vinegar base which can be a challenge for wines and create an overload of acidity. The best foil for tangy and salty is white wines and sparkling wines. Their efferences plays at the same level as the acid notes but in a softer way and adds a roundness that a still white wine cannot.
RED: Go with a sparking red wine like Sparkling Shiraz or blended red (Pinot Noir + Syrah)
WHITE: New World Sparkling wine with bright, citrus, and floral notes or from the Old World try a Spanish Cava, Italian Prosecco, French Crémant, or a lighter style/ young Champagne. For fun, try a sparkling rosé of pinot noir or syrah.
Best Bites
Pork Spareribs with old-fashioned mac and cheese.
Earthy/Woody Rubs
These spices call for the same deep forest floor tones found in earthy wines. Try these dried herb combinations of oregano, marjoram, thyme, parsley, black cardamon seed.
Slightly off dry or fruity wines play well with sweet, soft green herbs Italian Basil, Thai Basil, mint, chervil, cilantro, lemon verbena, green cardamom.
Onion powder, garlic powder, dried shallot, dried chive, dried leeks…anything with a heavy emphasis on the allium family calls for the same vegetal notes in a wine.
Paprika, Ancho, Cayenne, Aleppo, Szechuan–any rub with pepper (hot) benefits from an off-dry wine to temper the heat.
RED: Lombrusco, Tannat, Pinotage
WHITE: Malvasia, Gewürztraminer, Riesling
Best Bites
Classic grilled T-bone steak
Golden/Earthy Spices Rub
Cumin, turmeric, caraway, ginger, coriander seed, saffron, mustard seed pair well with earthy reds and aromatic, off-dry whites..
RED: Malbec, Mourvèdre, Bordeaux-style blend
WHITE: New World Sparkling, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Chardonnay
Best Bites
Grilled Lamb kebabs with Indian-style chutney
Sweet Spices Rub
Cinnamon, clove, star anise, fennel seed, nutmeg, mace, Chinese five spice, vanilla powder create sweetness on the palate. Go with it and leverage the fruity aromas of a wine for a complementary pairing.
Welcoming Chef Spencer Conaty to Sequoia Grove Winery
Meet the newest addition to the Sequoia Grove Winery team, Executive Chef Spencer Conaty! With a passion for farm-to-table cuisine and an impressive Michelinstar studded culinary background, Chef Spencer brings a fresh perspective to the esteemed winery, enhancing the wine and food pairing experiences. Discover the wine & food pairing excellence of Chef Spencer Conaty at Sequoia Grove! sequoiagrove.com
New, Non-Alcoholic Offerings at Meadowcroft Wines, Sonoma
Recognizing the various preferences and needs of its guests, from designated drivers to those making health-conscious choices, Meadowcroft Wines added some new non-alcoholic offerings to ensure everyone feels included and welcomed in the tasting room. By the Glass Mocktails or Mini Mocktail Tasting Flights are now available. meadowcroftwines.com
An Exceptional Culinary Experience at Ember Steak, Napa
Ember Steak is coming to The Meritage Resort. Proudly featuring dry-aged beef and produce from local farms, the restaurant blends rustic charm with elegance. Dine on steaks, sushi and specialty dishes paired with an extensive wine list and cocktail program. Relish in an intimate setting with al fresco dining spaces and views of the gateway to Napa.
Sora Napa
Visit The Meritage Resort’s bubbles bar Sora Napa for wine flights and small bites in Napa Valley. Only a few steps away from Ember, enjoy a pre-dinner glass of wine or hang out with friends and some champagne after your meal. Raise your glasses to the sky at Sora Napa. embersteak.com
Farmhouse Inn
“A beacon of elevated hospitality and comfortable luxury’
Relaxed Luxury
Located in Forestville, in the heart of Russian River Valley, Farmhouse Inn is Sonoma County’s ultimate retreat rooted in relaxed elegance and historic charm. Once home to Captain John Cooper and General Vallejo’s daughter in the late 1870s, the estate has shuffled hands many times throughout the decades. It was the area’s first gay resort in the mid-1970s, then it became a small, six-room B&B in the 1990s. Today, it’s a beacon of elevated hospitality and comfortable luxury as ranked by Travel + Leisure Magazine in 2016 as the #1 Hotel in California.
Forestville natives and siblings, Joe Bartolomei and Catherine Bartolomei, immediately went to work renovating and restoring the estate to create a world-class food, wine, and wellness destination when assuming ownership in 2001. The Farmhouse Inn now boasts 25 uniquely designed guest rooms which are a collection of charming guest cottages and a newer installation of barn-inspired luxury suites, complete with modern finishes and amenities, and a double-sided fireplace connecting the bedroom to a private balcony. The ultra sophisticated French-inspired seasonal tasting menu experience has garnered a consecutive 14 Michelin stars since its inception. Their more casual farm-to-table cuisine option offered via small plates provides all-day dining on the patio with poolside views. The full-service spa provides a serene getaway to pamper and restore, and the natural woodlands enveloping the enclave makes this property a highly sought-after boutique escape in wine country. Now in partnership with the Foley Family, under the Foley Entertainment Group, the team is building more bespoke suites and further updating the inn’s oldest cottages to offer the ultimate in accommodations and guest experiences.
“ We always intended Farmhouse to be a place where guests could really relax, a place that felt more like your good friend’s home than a hotel offering all the amenities you’d expect at a top luxury hotel but in an easy, comfortable way.”
– Catherine Bartolomei
The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn Led by husband-and-wife team; acclaimed Executive Chef Craig Wilmer and Executive Pastry Chef Amanda Hoang, the seasonal menus are a testament to the symbiotic collaboration between culinary maestros and the high-quality raw ingredients found in and around Northern California. Chef Wilmer and his team are creating an alchemic dining nirvana with each weekly seasonal six-course tasting menu. The extensive wine program is proudly Sonoma County-focused with a handful of specialty sips from abroad curated by Wine Director Jared Hooper. He masterfully creates wine pairings which unite and further raise the bar on the unfettered inventiveness and flawless execution of each dish.
The restaurant’s sophisticated yet unpretentious service and atmosphere illustrates the caliber of culinary talent now permeating Sonoma County’s fine dining scene. Reserve well in advance as the historic farmhouse has a dozen or less tables per nightly seating. Hotel reservations are not required to dine at the restaurant.
For more on the restaurant and to view a menu, visit farmhouseinn.com/restaurant. Dinner: Thursday – Monday 5:30-7:30pm
Chef’s Tasting Experience: $275 pp
Wine Pairing: $150 pp
Vignette Tasting Experience: $195 pp
Wine Pairing: $75 pp
Farmhouse Hill • 7871 River Road, Forestville 707-887-3300 • hello@farmhouseinn.com @farmhouse_inn
JOE & CATHERINE BARTOLOMEI
Wellness Barn
The Farmstand
Providing a variety of comforting and fresh creations driven by the region’s local farm cuisine, this quintessential Sonoma County dining experience offers small plate selections of healthy and nutritious meals cooked over woodfire. Guests are invited to savor the bounty and flavors of Sonoma County’s best ingredients.
Dining is available in the Farmstand dining space, on the patio, poolside, or in-room. Served Thursday – Monday. Lunch from 12pm to 3pm and Dinner from 5:30pm to 8pm. Reservations recommended. farmhouseinn.com/farmstand.
One of the newer amenities is the popular Wellness Barn. The spa’s interior design continues the modern barn theme with tall stall doors inviting you in for your wellness journey. Their holistic approach to mind, body, and soul healing features local remedies and therapeutic modalities designed to align, awaken, and anchor you in a place of balance and restorative bliss. From bathing rituals to yoga and meditation, to various types of massage, facials, and skincare treatments, your Spa Concierge will help you create the ultimate wellness experience. Hotel reservations are not required to experience the Wellness Barn. Your spa booking also secures pool access for the duration of your wellness visit. For appointments and curated packages, call 707-520-0195, go to farmhouseinn.com/spa-menu.
BY TANYA SEIBOLD
Ariana Debose, Alan Cumming, Darren Criss, Shoshana Bean, Aaron Lazar & more will headline Broadway and Vine’s 2024 Concert Series in Napa Valley
The nonprofit concert, wine, and culinary series featuring top Broadway talent takes place at some of the world’s most renowned wineries and resorts in Napa Valley beginning on July 9th
Broadway and Vine, a nonprofit organization bringing the best of Broadway to the best of Wine Country, kicks off its 2024 season on July 9 and 10, with Academy Award® Winner Ariana DeBose (West Side Story, The Prom, Schmigadoon, Broadway: Hamilton, Summer, Motown) at Carneros Resort’s Vineyard Lawn in Napa Valley. The vineyard concert series will continue throughout the summer and include EMMY® Award Winner Darren Criss (The Assassination of Gianni Versace, GLEE, Broadway: Maybe Happy Ending, American Buffalo, Hedwig and the Angry Inch) on July 25, Aaron Lazar (Everything Everywhere All At Once, The Last Ship, The Light In The Piazza, Les Misérables) on August 28, Grammy and Two-Time Tony Award® Nominee Shoshana Bean (Hell’s Kitchen, Mr. Saturday Night, Waitress) on September 23 and more at Tre Posti Vineyards. Closing out the season will be Tony Award® Winning Broadway icon Alan Cumming (The Traitors, The
Good Wife, Cabaret, Macbeth, The Threepenny Opera) with the Bay Area premiere of his new solo show UNCUT at Francis Ford Coppola’s Inglenook Winery on October 13. Additional 2024 artists will include Jelani Remy (Back to the Future) and Abby Mueller (SIX: The Musical). Broadway and Vine was founded and is produced by Tony Award® nominee Jacob Langfelder (Alan Cumming Is Not Acting His Age, Sea Wall/A Life) with a mission to provide mentorship, masterclass and performance opportunities for students and pre-professional performing artists.
The concert series is paired with world-class wineries and wines including Arietta, Chateau Montelena, Lloyd Cellars, Prescription Vineyards, Tansy, Titus, and more. Chefs Nash Cognetti, Jeffrey Jake, and more will showcase their cuisine in the picturesque vineyard and resort settings. Tickets begin at $95 and are on sale now at www.broadwayandvine.org.
Best Wine Country Inn
WHERE CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY MEETS THE SONOMA COAST…
THE INN AT THE TIDES IS LOCATED 60 MILES NORTH OF SAN FRANCISCO AND IS NEARBY THE FINEST BEACHES, WORLD-CLASS WINE TASTING, CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF, SPORTFISHING ADVENTURES, WHALE WATCHING TOURS & THE MAGNIFICENT ARMSTRONG REDWOODS NATURAL RESERVE
COMPLIMENTARY CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
BOTTLE OF WINE UPON ARRIVAL BAY, POOL, GARDEN OR PASTURE VIEWS
IN-ROOM MASSAGE SERVICES
POOL, SAUNA, WHIRLPOOL AND FITNESS CENTER
WIRELESS INTERNET AVAILABLE ROOM SERVICE – BREAKFAST & DINNER
800 HIGHWAY ONE, BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA 94923
WWW.INNATTHETIDES.COM (800) 541-7788
NO SEATS AVAILABLE ... WITHOUT A VIEW OF THE BAY
UNBELIEVABLY BEAUTIFUL SETTING AND VIEWS. MADE FAMOUS IN THE EARLY 1960’S AS THE BACKDROP OF ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S FILM CLASSIC, “THE BIRDS”, THE TIDES REMAINS A POPULAR DESTINATION FOR LOCALS AND TRAVELERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.
CHILDREN’S MENU AND FOOD TO GO WIRELESS INTERNET AVAILABLE
835 HIGHWAY ONE, BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA 94923
WWW.INNATTHETIDES.COM (707) 847-3652
The Press Democrat Readers’ Choice
Bohemian
FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY
Wine Country’s Largest and Longest Running Wine, Food and Music Celebration
Lionel Richie, Pretty Yende, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Ray Chen and Time for Three are among more than 100 international stars and emerging talent featured in Festival Napa Valley’s 2024 Summer Season, July 6-21
Highlights include tributes to Sophia Loren and Henry Mancini, opera, dance, jazz, film, classics, a grand tasting of food and wine, and more than 60 concerts and events at iconic venues throughout Napa Valley
Festival Napa Valley, recognized for transforming California wine country into a cultural destination, has announced the lineup for its 2024 Summer Season, July 6-21. Featuring innovative classical, jazz, contemporary, opera, and dance productions paired with Napa Valley’s unparalleled food, wine, and hospitality, the 2024 lineup offers something for all budgets, ranging from daily admission-free concerts to the Festival’s renowned Patron experience.
“We present dazzling talent on spectacular stages surrounded by the incomparable beauty of Napa Valley,” said Festival President & CEO Richard Walker. “It’s a one-of-a-kind experience and a highlight of the year for guests and artists, both returning and new.”
Festival Napa Valley 2024 Summer Season highlights (visit FestivalNapaValley.org to view the full schedule and purchase tickets or passes):
• International superstar Lionel Richie headlines the Arts for All Gala, benefiting arts education and the Festival’s community programs, with an elegant dinner prepared by chef Elliot Bell paired with single vineyard wines provided by Nickel & Nickel Winery at their historic farmstead property
• Maria Manetti Celebrates La Dolce Vita honoring screen legend Sophia Loren, with a screening of her iconic films and a performance featuring Loren’s grandson Vittorio Ponti on piano in his festival debut and the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra conducted by Carlo Ponti
• Mancini at 100 with Monica Mancini, Shelly Berg, Gregg Field and The Frost School of Music’s Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra
• Uytengsu Family Opening Night with Festival Orchestra Napa conducted by Carlo Montanaro, soprano Pretty Yende, tenor Jonathan Tetelman, and pianist Yang Bao in an Opus One Premieres performance
• Grand Cru Classics with pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet and violinist Ray Chen in an Olivia Decker Power of Music concert with Festival Orchestra Napa conducted by Filippo Ciabatti
• GRAMMY-winning string and vocal ensemble Time for Three performing Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Kevin Puts’ concerto, Contact.
• High energy contemporary dance group BODYTRAFFIC returns to Festival Napa Valley for the annual Dance Gala
• Vocal Fantastique featuring Manetti Shrem Summer Conservatory Vocalists in favorite opera scenes and composer Gordon Getty’s Old Man Trilogy featuring Volti Chorale, with Festival Orchestra Napa conducted by Ming Luke
• Art song recital featuring soprano Lisa Delan, pianist Kevin Korth and clarinetist David Barnett, with a world premiere by composer Jake Heggie
• An innovative Manetti Shrem Opera production of Mozart’s Abduction from the Seraglio conducted by Carlo Montanaro and directed by Jean-Romain Vesperini, with soprano Brenda Rae, tenor Michele Angelini, Bass David Soar and Volti Chorale
• Taste of Napa, Festival Napa Valley’s signature celebration of food, wine and music at The Meritage Resort and Spa
• Young Original, bringing fresh energy to the Great American Songbook at CIA at Copia in a double bill performance with singer-songwriter Matt Costa, and at Alpha Omega
• Daily admission-free Festival Live! concerts with participants from the Frost School of Music at Festival Napa Valley’s Blackburn Music Academy
• Three Bouchaine Young Artist concerts featuring violinist Geneva Lewis, pianist Daniela Liebman, and harpist Alisa Sadikova
• Two admission-free, family-friendly Novack Concerts for Kids
• Upon a Day book release author event with composer and poet Gordon Getty
• Kaiser Permanente Thrive Community Concerts presented on the Festival Napa Valley Stage at Charles Krug
• Festival Napa Valley’s Official Jeweler, Pomellato, will present its 2024 High Jewelry Collection, with additional luxury brands showcased during Summer Season including a collection by St. John festivalnapavalley.org
GAY WINE WEEKEND SONOMA, JULY 19-21
A Weekend of Wine & Celebration – Benefits Face to Face, Sonoma County HIV/AIDS NETWORK
Out In The Vineyard presents Gay Wine Weekend 2024 in the majestic Sonoma California Wine Country, July 19-21 – Featuring the TWILIGHT T-DANCE, a weekend of wine & celebration, benefiting Face to Face, Sonoma County HIV/AIDS Network.
Last year Gay Wine Weekend made a move to the Russian River Valley/Healdsburg Region of Sonoma County. “It was a huge success and so much fun to introduce guests of Gay Wine Weekend to this part of Sonoma Wine Country,” says Out In The Vineyard owner Gary Saperstein. “I am looking forward to exploring more of this part of Sonoma with our audience. We have the opportunity to showcase more wineries, restaurants and establishments with the event this July!”
La Crema Winery, the premier sponsor, will host the Twilight T-Dance at the stunning Richard’s Grove in Windsor. The signature event will feature a selection of La Crema wines. Guests of Gay Wine Weekend can enjoy booking their stay at the partner hotel, The Vintners Resort in Santa Rosa, . We will be taking over the entire resort for the festivities. Bookings are now open for reservations.
Gay Wine Weekend includes three full days of LGBT events in Northern California’s magnificent Sonoma and Napa valleys – home to some of the world’s most prestigious wine and wineries. Celebrate with world-class wine and culinary delights, VIP receptions, wine tasting excursions, a drag queen brunch and wine auction, and the T Dance at California’s iconic La Crema Winery.
IMPECCABLE HOSPITALITY
VIP Pacakges are now on sale.
Go VIP all weekend with the Magnum VIP Package which includes all the events along with a winemaker dinner and winery tour of your choice.
Or , The VIP Party Pass Package which includes all the parties over the course of the weekend, excluding the winemaker dinners and winery tours.
Out In The Vineyard is an experiential Wine Country Event and Travel company promoting positive LGBT lifestyles and offering exclusive, luxury itineraries and events in Wine Country for the discriminating gay traveler and their friends!
www.outinthevineyard.com
www.facebook.com/outinthevineyard
EXQUISITE ATMOSPHERE EXTRAORDINARY WINES
Ledson Winery & Vineyards
e Ledson family has a long and rich agricultural history in Sonoma County dating back to the 1860s. e Ledson legacy was built on long hours of hard work, always focusing on quality over quantity. Ledson’s highly coveted, estate-grown, handcrafted wines, scoring 95 points and above, reflect a sense of place and showcase the art of premier winemaking. Dr. Daniel Roberts, Soil Scientist and Viticulture Expert, said, “Steve Ledson’s unrelenting quest for perfection is very prominent at Mountain Terraces Vineyard and is proven in every bottle of wine.” e winery, designed and built by Steve, is an architectural showpiece known as the ‘Castle.’ Vine Pair called it “One of the Twelve Most Impressive Wineries in the World” and Boston Globe said, “ is Castle is a Must-See.”
You can reserve a private tasting in your own tasting suite, a seated tasting or a classic tasting at one of the bars. Cheese and charcuterie plates are available to elevate your experience. e Gourmet Marketplace offers local and unique cheeses, meats, fresh sandwiches, salads and treats to create the perfect picnic lunch you can enjoy in the Oak Grove. Ledson wines are sold exclusively at the winery, online at ledson.com, and at the Zina Lounge in Sonoma.
Ledson Hotel & The Zina Lounge
Standing like a crown jewel of the Historic Sonoma Plaza, the luxurious six-room boutique Ledson Hotel & Zina Lounge bring guests back in time to an era of grandeur. e rooms feature king-sized beds, in-room whirlpool tubs, romantic fireplaces and private balconies.
On the first floor is the Zina Lounge, a world class destination named after Steve Ledson’s great-great grandfather, Zina Hyde Cunningham who settled in Sonoma County in 1865 to open the family winery. e winery specializes in producing small lots of meticulously handcrafted wines, scoring in the mid 90’s. Wrap your day up at the Zina Lounge with award-winning wines from Zina Hyde Cunningham, Ledson and Mountain Terraces wineries. You can reserve a private tasting, a flight of three or five wines, or enjoy wine by the glass while watching the sunset from the sidewalk seating. Cheese & charcuterie plates are available to elevate your experience.
One of the 100 Hottest New Hotels Around the Globe — Condé Nast Traveler
Enjoy the Bounty of Delicious Fine Dining in Wine Country
If wine country brings to mind the bounty of California farms and the largess of the Pacific Ocean, you will not be disappointed as you dine at restaurants in Napa and Sonoma counties. It is here you will find the very best in local produce, top qulity meats, fresh seafood and of course, a seemingly endless variety of ways to imbibe – from local wine to craft beer to artisan cocktails. Whether living locally or visiting from out of town, those dining in Wine Country have an insatiable appetite for good food and drink, and expect nothing less than the greatness from this impressive list of restaurants.
Your quick stop for fresh coffee & espresso! Pull up a chair for pancakes, benedicts, omelets….. Time for lunch? Have a salad, burger, or a sandwich! Hungry? Breakfast served all day!!
Monday - Friday 8am to 2pm Saturday & Sunday 8am to 3pm 1408 Clay St, Napa 707-252-1408 petitsoleilonclay.com
NAPA
Allegria
Italian, full bar
outdoor seating
LUNCH & DINNER; $$ 1026 1ST ST, 707 254-8006
Angéle Restaurant & Bar
French, full bar on the Napa Riverfront LUNCH & DINNER; $$$ 540 MAIN ST, 707 252-8115
French country fare; outdoor patio LUNCH & DINNER; $$$ 6510 WASHINGTON ST, 707 944-0103
Bottega
Rustic Italian/Californian; outside patio with two fireplaces LUNCH, DINNER; $$$ 6525 WASHINGTON ST, 707 945-1050
Bouchon Bistro
French bistro, raw bar; outdoor seating; cocktails DINNER; $$$ 6534 WASHINGTON ST, 707 944-8037
Brix Restaurant
French inspired wine country farm to-table cuisine; wine shop 16 acres of gardens, vineyards LUNCH & DINNER, SUNDAY BRUNCH; $$$ 7377 HIGHWAY 29, 707 944-2749
The French Laundry
Fine classic French cuisine, highest quality ingredients, prix fixe menu, impeccable service DINNER, RESERVATIONS REQ’D, $$$$ 6640 WASHINGTON ST, 707 944-2380
The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, Yountville
H THE KITCHEN AT PRIEST RANCH
Casual, rooftop & patio seating, to go options
LUNCH & DINNER; $$ 6488 WASHINGTON ST, 707 947-4017
New American, seafood, full bar; flavors from Asia, American South, the East Coast, Jewish LUNCH, DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH; $$; 1055 4TH STREET; 707 568-4000 Café Citti
Californian, full bar, outdoor seating; visit The Front Room for cocktails or River Cafe for breakfast, brunch or lunch. DINNER, $$$, AT VINTNERS INN 4330 BARNES ROAD; 707 527-7687
La Gare
French, wine/beer; old world classic French cuisine with local ingredients, a local favorite DINNER, $$$ 208 WILSON STREET; 707 528-4355
Lo Coco’s Italian, wine/beer; authentic Italian favorites LUNCH & DINNER; $$ 117 FOURTH ST; 707 523-2227
Stark’s Steak & Seafood Steak/seafood, full bar, happy hour; upscale feel Extensive wine list and whiskeys LUNCH & DINNER, $$$ 521 ADAMS STREET; 707 546-5100
Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro
California fare with a French touch DINNER WED-SUN; $$$ 3535 GUERNEVILLE RD, 707 546-6462
WINDSOR
KIN Windsor
Modern twist on home cooking LUNCH & DINNER, $$-$$$ 740 McCLELLAND DRIVE; 707 837-7546
Sweet T’s
Southern BBQ, full bar, outdoor seating; quality southern cuisine with the freshest local ingredients LUNCH & DINNER, $$ 9098 BROOKS RD S; 707 687-5185
Ume Japanese Bistro
Japanese, full bar, outdoor seating LUNCH & DINNER, $$ 8710 OLD REDWOOD HIGHWAY, WINDSOR; 707 838-6700
Things To Do
• N apa Valley Drifters (707) 492-5701 napavalleydrifters.com
• S onoma Ballooning (707) 819-9223 sonomaballooning.com
• Napa Valley Aloft (855) 944-4408 ballooning@nvaloft .com nvaloft .com
• Wine Country Balloons (707) 538-7359 hotline@balloontours.com winecountryballoons.com
• Napa Valley Drifters (707) 492-5701 napavalleydrifters.com
If you’ve never taken a hot air balloon ride, there’s no better place than wine country to experience the amazing 360° aerial views from inside the basket. Experienced and knowledgeable hot air balloon pilots a ct as both guide and entertainer while pointing out local highlights and welcoming questions from you and fellow flyers.
If you’ve never taken a hot air balloon ride, there’s no better place than wine country to experience the amazing 360° aerial views from inside the basket. Experienced and knowledgeable hot air balloon pilots act as both guide and entertainer while pointing out local highlights and welcoming questions from you and fellow flyers.
• B alloons Above the Valley 800-464-6824 info@balloonrides.com balloonrides.com
• Balloons Above the Valley 800-464-6824 info@balloonrides.com balloonrides.com
• N apa Valley Balloons 800-253-2224 info@napavalleyballoons.com napavalleyballoons.com
• N apa Valley Aloft (855) 944-4408 ballooning@nvaloft.com nvaloft.com
• Napa Valley Balloons 800-253-2224 info@napavalleyballoons.com napavalleyballoons.com
Whether you’re after a leisurely afternoon pedal or a full day of serious biking through the vineyards, there are several cycling companies offering guided, off-the-beatenpath rides throughout the valley.
• Wine Country Balloons (707) 538-7359 hotline@balloontours.com winecountryballoons.com
• Ace It! Bike Tours Windsor, (707) 688-4063 aceitbiketours.com
Cycling
• Calistoga Bike Shop (707) 942-9687 www.calistogabikeshop.com
• Ride Napa Valley info@ridenapavalley.com www.ridenapavalley.com
• Napa River Velo Napa, (707) 258-8729 info@naparivervelo.com naparivervelo.com
H SONOMA VALLEY BIKE TOURS Sonoma (707) 996-2453 sonomavalleybiketours.com
• St. Helena Cyclery St. Helena, (707) 963-7736 www.sthelenacyclery.com
★ NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS (707) 944-2453 info@napavalleybiketours.com napavalleybiketours.com
• Fat Tire Bike Rental Napa, (707) 345-6396 fattirebikerentals@gmail.com www.fattirebikerentals.org
Whether you’re after a leisurely afternoon pedal or a full day of serious biking through the vineyards, there are several cycling companies offering guided, off -the-beaten-path rides throughout the valley.
• G etaway Adventures 800-499-2453 info@getawayadventures.com getawayadventures.com
• Ace It! Bike Tours Windsor, (707) 688-4063 aceitbiketours.com
• N apa Native Tours (707) 815-0172 WineTours@NapaNative.com www.napanative.com
• Calistoga Bike Shop (707) 942-9687 www.calistogabikeshop.com
• Wine Country Cyclery Sonoma, (707) 996-6800 www.winecountrycyclery.com
• Pushpak Motors Tours on electric trikes Sonoma, (707) 343-1192 www.pushpakmotors.net
• Wine Country Bikes (707) 568-304 info@getawayadventures.com www.winecountrybikes.com
• Ride Napa Valley info@ridenapavalley.com www.ridenapavalley.com
• Wine Country Cycling Tours 800-462-2848 dave@adventureincycling.com winecountrycyclingtours.com
★SONOMA VALLEY BIKE TOURS Sonoma (707) 996-2453 www.sonomavalleybiketours.com
NAPA VALLEY BIKE TOURS One-Stop Shop for Fun Adventures!
Napa Valley Bike Tours specializes in providing visitors with some of the most unique and unforgett able vacation experiences (even if it’s just a day trip) in Napa Valley. Guided bike tours, visiting Napa wineries, self-guided wine-tasting bike tours and bike rentals are just the beginning. You can even book a bike tour/ hot air balloon ride adventure that includes lunch and wine tasting stops at two Napa Valley wineries! You’ll be talking about your adventure with Napa Valley Bike Tours for years to come!
FULL-DAY & HALF-DAY GUIDED BIKE TOURS BIKE RENTALS • ELECTRIC BIKES napavalleybiketours.com • 707.251.8687
NAPA VALLEY ALOFT
NAPA VALLEY ALOFT
HORSEBACK RIDING
Vineyard horseback ride coupled with a food and wine tasting, make this a must-do when visiting wine country. Saddle-up and an experienced trail guide will take you for a ride through the vineyards.
• N apa Valley Trail Rides Napa, (707) 255-5661 info@shadybrookestate.com www.napavalleytrailrides.com
• S onoma Valley Trail Rides Sonoma, (707) 343-5511 sonomavalleytrailrides.com
• Triple Creek Horse Outfit Glen Ellen, (707) 887-8700 triplecreekhorseoutfit.com
BOCCE COURTS
Many wineries have bocce courts for their visitors’ enjoyment. Becase the game is played between two players or two teams of one, two, or four, it lends itself well to hanging out with friends at the winery as part of your total winery adventure. Be sure to check ahead. Some courts require reservations and/or fees. If you have your own balls, Veterans’ Park in Yountville or Crane Park in St. Helena have bocce courts available when leagues are not in play.
• Armida Winery Healdsburg, (707) 433-2222
• Auburn James St Helena, (707) 967-9100
• B ell Wine Cellars Napa, (707) 944-1673
• B acchus Landing Healdsburg
• B eringer Vineyards St Helena, (707) 257-5771
• B remer Family Winery St Helena, (707) 963-5411
• Chateau Montelena Calistoga, (707) 942-5105
• Chateau St. Jean Winery Kenwood, (707) 708-8171
• D ’Argenzio Winery Santa Rosa, (707) 546-2466
• D e La Montanya Vineyard Healdsburg, (707) 433-3711
• D ry Creek Vineyards Healdsburg, (707) 433-1000
• D utcher Crossing Winery Geyserville, (707) 431-2700
• E hlers Estate Winery St Helena, (707) 963-5972
• Farm at Carneros Inn Napa, (707) 299-4880
• Francis Ford Copola Geyserville, (707) 857-1400
• Furthermore Wines Sebastopol, (707) 823-3040
• HALL St. Helena St Helena, (707) 967-2626
• H ook & Ladder Vineyards Santa Rosa, (707) 526-2255
• I magery Estate Winery Glen Ellen, (877) 550-4278
• Landmark Vineyard Kenwood, (707) 833-0053
• M artorana Family Winery Healdsburg, (707) 433-1909
• M athew Bruno Rutherford Rutherford, by appt. (707) 912-9112
• N ichelini Family Winery St Helena, (707) 963-0717
• Piña Napa Valley Napa, (707) 738-9328
• Pope Valley Winery Pope Valley, (707) 965-1246
• Raymond Vineyards St Helena, (707) 963-3141
• S eghesio Family Vineyards Healdsburg, (707) 433-3579
• S ilenus Vintners Napa, (707) 299-3930
• Stags’ Leap Winery Napa, (707) 257-5790
• S ugarloaf Wine Co. Kenwood, (707) 244-4885
• Thomas George Estates Healdsburg, (707) 431-8031
• Trione Vineyards Geyserville, (707) 814-8100
• Trinchero Napa Valley St Helena, (707) 963-1160
• Turnbull Wine Cellars Oakville, (707) 963-5839
PETANQUE
Similar to bocce, the French version Petanque is growing in popularity. Courts are available at the following locations.
• Clos du Val Winery Napa, (707) 261-5212
• St. Supéry Estate Rutherford, (707) 302-3488
CROQUET
Croquet requires strategy, precision, and good hand-eye coordination, making it both challenging and rewarding. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors with wine and friends a perfect way to enjoy a beautiful day.
• S onoma-Cutrer Vineyards Satudays/Sundays with RSVP Windsor, (707) 237-3489
ON THE WATER
Kayak or SUP (stand up paddle board) are a perfect way to relax on the water while seeing the wine country sights.
• B urke’s Canoe Trips Forestville, (707) 887-1222 burkescanoetrips.com
BOCCE COURT AT IMGERY ESTATE WINERY
• N apa Valley Paddle Napa, (707) 200-5511 crew@napavalleypaddle.com www.napavalleypaddle.com
• E njoy Napa Valley (707) 227-7364 enjoynapavalley@gmail.com enjoy-napa-valley.com
Local gathering place for great food, wine, shopping; Downtown Napa oxbowpublicmarket.com
UNIQUELY WINE COUNTRY
As a prime vacation destination, wine country has its share of unique tours, activities and micro-destinations replete with wine tasting, boutique shops and fine dining. Here are a some we highly recommend.
• California Cheese Trail
Find where to taste cheese, cheesetrail.org
H JELLY BELLY VISITOR CENTER
Learn how the famous jelly beans are created and get free samples! Fairfield, (707) 428-2838, jellybelly.com
• N apa Valley Wine Train (707) 253-2111, www.winetrain.com
H NAPA VALLEY WINE TROLLEY
Vintage, open-air trolley, like the San Francisco Cable Cars (707) 252-6100, www.napavalleywinetrolley.com
H SONOMA VALLEY WINE TROLLEY Sonoma, (707) 938-2600 sonomavalleywinetrolley.com
LIVE PERFORMANCES
After wining and dining, continue experiening wine country with a live performance at one of these top-notch venues. Check our Calendar of Events or visit each website for what’s coming up.
• Blue Note Napa – Napa (707) 880-2300, www.bluenotenapa.com
• G reen Music Center – Rohnert Park (707) 664-4246, gmc.sonoma.edu
• Luther Burbank Center for the Arts – Santa Rosa (707) 546-3600, lutherburbankcenter.org
• N apa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater, Yountville (707) 944-9900, lincolntheater.com
• Transcendence Theatre Co – Sonoma 877-424-1414, transcendencetheatre.org
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
• J ack London State Historic Park Hiking & horseback trails, museum, ruins 707-938-5216, www.jacklondonpark.com
• S onoma Canopy Tours Ziplines, treehouse glamping 888-494-7868, sonomacanopytours.com
• S onoma County Farm Trails Visit and tour Sonoma County farms, ranches, artisans, farm stands, www.farmtrails.org
• S afari West Wildlife Preserve & African Tent Camp 800-616-2695, www.safariwest.com
• S onoma TrainTown Railroad Fun for the whole family (707) 938-3912, www.traintown.com
Factory & Museum Tours
9:15AM - 4:00PM • Self-guided factory and museum tours • Every tour includes a Jelly Belly Train Ride! (weather/staffing permitted)
11:00am to 4:00pm
Wine Country Calendar
ONGOING THROUGH NOVEMBER
Summer of Pies World Pizza Tour
The Grove Restaurant, CIA at Copia, Napa
Weekly specials representing different styles of pizza with special guest pizzaiolos on weekends.
July 3-14: Siciliana
July 17–28: Tonda Romana
July 31–August 11: Padellino
August 14–25: Pinsa Roma ciaatcopia.com/summer-of-pies
ONGOING FRIDAYS
ETUDE UNPLUGGED
Etude Winery, Napa
Experience the essence of summer at Etude’s Unplugged Tasting – enjoy acoustic music in the courtyard, complemented by local Napa Valley food trucks. 12-5pm, etudewines.com
ONGOING SATURDAYS LIVE MUSIC
Passaggio Wines, Glen Ellen
Enjoy live local music and a glass of wine! Bring your own picnic or order from one of the great restaurants in Jack London Village. 2-4pm, passaggiowines.com
ONGOING SATURDAYS
Guest Winery Saturdays
Oakville Grocery, Oakville
Each week, a distinguished guest winery will showcase select wines, offering you an opportunity to explore and savor new flavors or cherished favorites. 1-3pm, oakvillegrocery.com
ONGOING SUNDAYS
Secret Menu
The Beacon, Sonoma
Special artisan cocktails/mocktails taubfamilyoutpost.com
ONGOING WEEKENDS
Vinyl in the Vineyard
Goosecross Cellars, Yountville
The Goosers spin some of their favorite artists spanning multiple decades. Everything from Abba to Zac Brown, Jack White to Jack Black, The Beasties to The Bee Gees to T-Swift, and more! 10am-3:30pm, RSVP, goosecross.com
ONGOING MONDAYS
Winemaker Mondays
Enoteca Della Santina, Sonoma
This is a unique opportunity to meet the hands that make the wine this beautiful area is known and celebrated for. Meet local winemakers, try their wines and hear their stories. $15, 4-7pm, enotecadellasantina.com
ONGOING MONDAYS
Trivia Night!
Sigh!, Sonoma
Hosted by North Bay Events, every Monday is be filled with fun, bubbles... and prizes! 5:30-7:30pm, sighsonoma.com
ONGOING TUESDAYS
Open Mic
Johnny’s Calistoga
Calling all musicians and performers! Unleash your passion and share your talent! 6-9pm www.johnnyscalistoga.com
ONGOING TUESDAYS
Ty’s Tuesday Happy Hour
Ty Caton Vineyards, Kenwood
Unwind and savor Moon Mountain District wines including the acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, blends and other estate produced wines in the relaxing tasting room. Discounted wines. $15 flights with snacks, 3pm-close, tycaton.com
ONGOING TUESDAYS
Taco Tuesday
Shannon Family of Wines, Lakeport
Proudly showcasing delicious specials by Rosie’s Bread n’ Butter, including their irresistible Birria tacos. 4-7pm, shannonfamilyofwines.com
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS
Pizza & Pinot
The Depot, Sonoma
Pizza, salad, wine, dessert – $39, 5-7:30pm, RSVP
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS
Wine & Sunsets
Paradise Ridge Winery, Santa Rosa
Enjoy Paradise Ridge wines paired with beautiful Russian River Valley sunsets while enjoying gourmet local food trucks and live music! Wines are available to purchase by glass or bottle. Tickets vary from $10-$25 6-8pm prwinery.com
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS
Acoustic Sunsets
Sonoma Botanical Garden, Glen Ellen Music in the amphitheater, lawn games, and other family friendly activities. Bring a picnic. 5-8pm
ONGOING THURSDAY-SUNDAY
Cheesemaking Classes
The Epicurean Connection, Sonoma
• H ands-on Cheesemaking Class Thursday-Friday 12-2pm
Special prices on wines by the glass, beer from local craft breweries, and a selection of delicious small bites and appetizers prepared to order. Don’t forget the live music! 5-730pm, russianrivervineyards.com
THURSDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 26
Annual Summer Music Series
Cuvaison Winery, Napa
Enjoy an idyllic sunset view accompanied by celebrated local musicians and an exceptional glass of wine. Ticket price includes a glass of wine. $35, 4-7pm, cuvaison.com
ONGOING THURSDAYS
Trivia Night
Golden Gate Cider, Sebastopol 21+, 6pm, thebarlow.net
ONGOING THURSDAYS
Don’t Tell Comedy
Vintage Space Lounge, Flamingo Resort, Santa Rosa
Enjoy live comedy by the best local and nationally touring talent. Food and drinks available for purchase. $20, 8pm, flamingoresort.com
ONGOING THURSDAYS
Toasty Thursday
Shannon Family of Wines, Lakeport
Rosie’s Bread N’ Butter will serve up the warm, gooey goodness of her Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches + Delectable Soup, and Sweet Treats, perfectly paired with your favorite Shannon Family Wines. 4-7pm, shannonfamilyofwines.com
ONGOING THURSDAY-SUNDAY
Pizza & Vino
Fritz Winery, Cloverdale
This new experience for two includes local artisan Margherita pizza paired with a glass of Estate Zinfandel for each guest, tour of the underground facility, and terrace views! 24 hour notice requested. Bottle purchase and by the glass welcome afterward. $64, fritzwinery.com
ONGOING
Trivia Night/Live Music
Murphy’s Irish Pub, Sonoma 7pm, sonomapub.com
Trivia Wednesdays. Live music 6 nights/week.
ONGOING FRIDAYS
Friday Night Pizza
Shannon Family of Wines, Lakeport Doughbaby Pizza – for the classic yet casual combo of delicious pizza and wine. 4-7pm, shannonfamilyofwines.com
ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
Summer Music Series
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma Cozy up at one of the outdoor firepits, enjoy bites from CaliForno Street Eats food truck, and sip on your favorite cocktails and Sonoma wines from 38º North Bar! 5-8pm, fairmont.com
SATURDAYS THROUGH LABOR DAY WEEKEND
Saturday Pizza & Music Series
Romeo Vineyards & Cellars, Calistoga Margherita, pepperoni and a weekly specialty pizza ($18) served from 12pm-6pm. Rotating local musicians from 3pm-5pm. romeovineyards.com
ONGOING SATURDAYS
Saturday Farmers Market
Shannon Family of Wines, Lakeport 10am-1pm, shannonfamilyofwines.com
JUNE 29-30
JULY 27-28
THREE TENORS –A CAPELLA GROUP
VJB Cellars, Kenwood
Enjoy The Tenors on the piazza every last weekend of the month through October. 1-1:45pm vjbcellars.com
ONGOING SUNDAYS
Sunday Funday
Shannon Family of Wines, Lakeport
Board games, cards, and dice inside. Mad House Foods will be there serving up smashed burgers, pulled pork and loaded fries. 12-3pm, shannonfamilyofwines.com
WEEKEND THROUGH SEPTEMBER
Weekends on the Lawn at Patz & Hall
Patz & Hall Winery, Sonoma
Enjoy your picnic with friends while sipping on your favorite Patz & Hall Pinot Noir or Chardonnay on the lawn surrounded by lush vineyards. Outside picnic food is encouraged. Blankets provided. Take home souvenir Patz & Hall GoVino glass as a keepsake. $10pp, patzhall.com
JUNE 28
Schellville Sunsets
Patz & Hall Winery, Sonoma
Patz & Hall has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Sangiacomo Wines and Anaba Wines to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Sip, stroll, and take in the sights of the beautiful Schellville sunset while enjoying live local musicians. $10pp, patzhall.com
JUNE 29
LIVE MUSIC – ROAD ELEVEN
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
JUNE 29
WINE BLENDING COURSE
Bennett Lane Winery, Calistoga
Participate in the first ever Wine Blending Course at Bennett Lane Winery. Trained staff will guide you through an educational tasting and teach you the art of blending wine. You will even get to try your hand at making your OWN Maximus Red Feasting Wine. You will blend your own glass of Maximus Red Feasting Wine using the same lab techniques and equipment a winemaker would use. Once you have your blend finalized you can even purchase and make a bottle of your custom wine; bottle, cork, foil, and label your own individual bottles. This is a truly unique and hands on wine experience. $40 11am-1pm, bennettlane.com/events
JUNE 29
Summer Solstice
Clos du Val, Napa
Break out your finest summer whites –2023 Sauvignon Blanc, an oyster bar, live music, new wines, and gourmet bites. White attire is required! $125, 5:30-8:30pm
JUNE 29
Artful Summer: Flamenco on the Plaza Keller Estate, Petaluma
Traditional flamenco music and dance by FLAMENCO! LIVE! Spanish inspired grazing board. Keller Estate wines. $95, 2-4pm
JUNE 29
SingleThread Wine Pairing Lunch
Medlock Ames, Healdsburg
Experience Bell Mountain Vineyard wines paired with culinary delights from SingleThread, Sonoma County’s 3 Michelin Star restaurant.
The Wine Pairing Lunch will include a SingleThread chef-curated “bento box” with each item artfully paired with organically farmed estate wines. Lunch will take place in the olive grove at the historic Healdsburg tasting room. This limited offering will be available for parties of 2-6. Reservation bookings expect to sell out quickly. Reservations are required for this unique dining experience. $175, medlockames.com
JUNE 29
Annual Lobster Boil
Charles Krug Winery, St. Helena with Napa Valley Lobster Co., $140, 11:30am
JUNE 29
Simmer Down Saturday
Live Music Series
Muscardini Cellars, Kenwood
Easy Street Band | Food: Zapata Grill, $15, 5-8pm
JUNE 29
Live Music by Mimi & Gabe
Spicy Vines, Healdsburg
3-6pm, RSVP spicyvines.com/events
JUNE 30
SUMMER MUSIC SERIES: ADAM LIEB
Breathless Wines, Healdsburg
Immerse yourself in a blend of rock, blues, and soul, infused with the artistry of traditional folk music from around the globe along with sparkling sensations from Breathless Wines. 12-2pm
JUNE 30
Migration Sunday Series
Migration Winery, Napa
Following a seated wine tasting experience in the atrium, relax in the lawn area with your favorite Migration wines available for purchase. Lawn games. Food platters and snacks available. $55, 1-4pm, migrationwines.com
JUNE 29
Rhone Rangers
Saver Summer Tasting
Cline Cellars, Sonoma
Join the Rhone Rangers for an afternoon wine tasting with 32+ wineries on the grand lawn at Cline Family Cellars! Discover new favorites from the well-known Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier to the more obscure grapes like Picpoul, Roussanne, Counoise and Mourvèdre. Event includes a Rhone Rangers logo wine glass, cheese pairing with Monterey Cheese Co., live music with Highway One, and a selection of 150+ wines to choose from for tasting.
$75 2-4pm / $95 VIP 1-4pm, rhonerangers.org
JUNE 30
Sunday Social Club Summer Music Series
Sugarloaf Wine Co, Santa Rosa
Classic rock n roll from Highway 12 Band. Brazilian Cuisine by Chef Travis Gee. Bocce, corn hole, craft vendors. Bring your own chair. $15, 3-6pm, sugarloafwineco.com
JULY 3
Pizza and Pinot
Russian River Vineyards, Forestville
Enjoy wine, beer, live music, and pizza from Happy Cat Pizza. 5-7:30pm, russianrivervineyards.com
JULY 3
Paella Night
Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, Lower Lake $20, wine available for purchase, 5-7pm, RSVP
JULY 5
Schellville Sunsets
Larson Family Winery, Sonoma
Larson Family Winery has teamed up with Sangiacomo Wines, Patz & Hall Winery and Anaba Wines to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Love live music and good food? Enjoy delicious dishes available for purchase from the Hopmonk Food Truck, live music by Jacob Phillip Benning, and select wines by the glass for only $5! $10pp, exploretock.com/larsonfamilywinery
JULY 5
Live Music on the Terrace
Merryvale Vineyards, St. Helena
Music: Benny Bassett
Food: La Condesa Taqueria
B ring folding chairs and blankets for spacious lawn seating. 5-7pm, merryvale.com
Come for fun in the Sonoma sun! Enjoy an afternoon filled with music, lawn games, local food trucks, and of course, delicious wine! Wine by the glass and food available for purchase. Tacos San Juan – Delicious, authentic Mexican food featuring tacos, quesadillas, and some of the best birria in Sonoma!
DJ Z – Rock out to ’80s hits, classic rock, and current favorites. Food available on a first-come, first- served basis. imagerywinery.com
JULY 6
LIVE MUSIC – JOHNNY SMITH & FRIENDS
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
JULY 6
LIVE MUSIC – THE CLADDAGH BAND Passaggio Wines, Glen Ellen
Irish and Scottish folk songs and ballads. $10, 2-4pm, passaggiowines.com
JULY 6
Live Music on the Piazza – Rootstocks
Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg
Immerse yourself in the harmonious vibes of talented artists, exquisite wines, and the joy of shared moments. 12-4pm, bacchuslanding.com
JULY 7
Sunday Social Club Summer Music Series
Sugarloaf Wine Co, Santa Rosa Coast Highway Band. Paella & tapas by Chef Travis Gee. Bocce, corn hole, craft vendors. Bring your own chair. $15, 3-6pm, sugarloafwineco.com
Come to the scenic vineyard-view lawn for an unforgettable night with Academy Award Winner, Ariana DeBose. This special evening includes: 90-minute pre-concert reception featuring award-winning Napa wines then a live concert on the Hilltop Lawn by Ariana DeBose. Optional Post-Concert 3-Course Vintner’s Dinner 6pm, broadwayandvine.org
JULY 6-21
FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY
Various Locations, Napa Valley
Breathtaking performances in iconic wine country settings, paired with Napa Valley’s unparalleled food, wine, and hospitality. The programs uplift and inspire, attracting artists and audiences from the world over.
Taste of Napa – The signature celebration is set to take place on Saturday, July 13 from 123pm on The Meritage Resort’s Grand Reserve lawn. The event features offerings from more than 70 wineries, breweries, restaurants, and culinary artisans, plus live music, games, activities, and the chance to explore wines of the world through a special international showcase of wines from Great Britain and Italy. festivalnapavalley.org
JULY 8
BATTER UP & WINE DOWN
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville
An unforgettable evening of baseball-themed cuisine and exceptional wines, featuring the legendary Marty Lurie and Ron Wotus sharing their most captivating baseball stories. Don’t miss this unique blend of gourmet food, fine wine, and baseball lore in the heart of wine country! $25, 5:30-7:30pm priestranchwines.com
JULY 13
Wine and Music
Pope Valley Winery, Pope Valley
Bring a picnic. Complimentary. Wine tasting $45 Music by Soul Circus 1-4pm
JULY 13
Flashback Fridays
Nichelini Winery, St. Helena
Classic bar-style service, tastings free with purchase. New release: 2023 Roman Press White No reservations needed. 11am-5pm
JULY 13
Simmer Down Saturday
JULY 12
Schellville Sunsets
Sangiacomo Wines, Sonoma Sangiacomo has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Patz & Hall Winery and Anaba Wines to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Sip, stroll, and take in the sights of the beautiful Schellville sunset while enjoying live local musicians. $10pp, sangiacomowines.com
JULY 12-13
Cooking with Cakebread:
Live Fire Cooking Class
Cakebread Cellars, Rutherford
Elevate the classic barbecue with some inspired and delicious food cooked over fire. Lunch paired with Cakebread Cellars wine. $275, 9:30am-2:30pm, cakebread.com
JULY 13
LIVE MUSIC – CLASS ACTION BAND
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
JULY 13
Estate Luncheon Series
Featuring The Big Green Egg
St. Supery Estate Vineyards & Winery, Rutherford
Wine and food pairings prepared entirely on the Big Green Egg kamado grill by Estate Chef Vince Sanchez featuring rustic ribeye and estate garden vegetables paired with the latest wine releases. Event includes wine pairings and lunch, grilling demonstration and a Big Green Egg Gift Bag. $150, 12-2:30pm, stsupery.com
JULY 13
2020 BLANC DE NOIRS SUMMER RELEASE EVENT
Etude Winery, Napa
You’re invited to come to the Etude Plaza for its fourth annual Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Release Event! Indulge in delectable small bites by Tre Posti, relaxing music, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes. Plus, don’t miss the exquisite succulent oyster pairing with the 2020 Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Wine. $100, 2-5pm, etudewines.com
JULY 13
Winemaker Series: Sustainability & Viticulture
Rodney Strong Vineyards, Healdsburg
In-depth discussion, $80, 11am-1pm
JULY 13
Motown Get Down
Dry Creek Vineyard, Healdsburg
Motown-inspired concert by The Lucky Devils. Enjoy wines by the glass or bottle. Food will also be available for purchase. $65, 12-4pm, RSVP
JULY 13
FARM FEST –
A 20th Anniversary Celebration
Clif Family, St. Helena
A day of celebration, wine, and food amidst the breathtaking beauty of Howell Mountain. Live music, farm tours, farm-to-fork feast, current release Clif Family wines. 12-7pm, cliffamily.com
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, you’ll love this Vineyard Stroll and Wine Tasting. A wine educator will lead the way, sharing insights into Biodynamic winegrowing practices followed by a seated tasting on the picturesque terrace. After the walk, stay and enjoy a boxed lunch from the Glen Ellen Market –select your sandwich option at check-out. $45, RSVP, benziger.com
JULY 14
Migration Sunday Series
Migration Winery, Napa
Following a seated wine tasting experience in the atrium, relax in the lawn area with your favorite Migration wines available for purchase. Lawn games. Food platters and snacks available. $55, 1-4pm, migrationwines.com
JULY 14
Sunday Social Club
Summer Music Series
Sugarloaf Wine Co, Santa Rosa Classic rock by Skyhawk Band.
Benevolent Neglect at the bar.
Burgers & Brats by Chef Travis Gee, Know Wine-ing Bocce, corn hole, craft vendors. Bring your own chair. $15, 3-6pm, sugarloafwineco.com
JULY 17
WINEMAKER HAPPY HOUR
Region. @ The Barlow, Sebastopol
Winemaker Penny Gadd-Coster will present a unique flight of Breathles Sparkling Wines paired with Kosho sushi at The Barlow. 5-7pm
JULY 18
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE –WINE, MUSIC & FOOD
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville Priest Ranch brings together the best in live music, local cuisine from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and wine. Classic Latin American music by Carlos Ramirez Trio on the patio for guests. Music is complimentary. Wine and food available for purchase. 6-9pm, priestranchwines.com
JULY 19
Live Music on the Terrace
Merryvale Vineyards, St. Helena
Music: Carlos Herrera
Food: Platanito Pupusas
First seated and tables go quickly – feel free to bring folding chairs and blankets for spacious lawn seating. 5-7pm, merryvale.com
JULY 19
Friday Jams
Cline Cellars, Sonoma
Live music & good food
Music: Christian Dupreel; Food truck: Hopmonk RSVP requested, 5-7pm, clinecellars.com
JULY 19
Schellville Sunsets
Anaba Wines, Sonoma
Anaba Wines has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Sangiacomo Wines, and Patz & Hall
Winery to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Enjoy some wine, some food, and some tunes by Sonoma Shakers while watching the sunset over the beautiful Sonoma Mountains. Your ticket includes a welcome splash of Anaba wine and a keepsake glass to take home. $10pp, anabawines.com
JULY 20
LIVE MUSIC – CLASS ACTION BAND
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa
On the patio, 6-9pm
JULY 13
WINERY LUNCH SERIES
Somerston Estate, St. Helena
Join Winemaker Cody Hurd or Director of Vineyard Operations Jake Knobloch for an elevated food and wine experience showcasing our limitedproduction Estate wines. Allow Estate Executive Chef Dan Solomon to prepare you a seasonally sourced lunch expertly paired with the wines during this extremely limited and intimate event. $250, 12-3pm, somerstonestate.com
JULY 20
Vineyard & Garden Hikes
Chalk Hill Estate, Healdsburg
Sip on a curated selection of wines paired with delicious bites as you move through the vineyards and overlook stunning views, before entering the Pavilion for a garden-to-table coursed lunch paired with wines from the estate. $150, 10am-1pm, RSVP
JULY 20
Live Music by Adam Lieb Spicy Vines, Healdsburg 3-6pm, RSVP spicyvines.com/events
JULY 20
POST RACE POURING –
NAPA TO SONOMA HALF MARATHON Talisman Wine at Sonoma Plaza, Sonoma 9:30am-noon, talismanwine.com
JULY 20-21
Social Afternoon Tea
Ackerman Heritage House & Ackerman Family Vineyards, Napa
Treat yourself to an afternoon of decadent treats, tea and exquisite company at an 1889 Queen Anne Victorian Estate. $70, 11am-1pm ackermanfamilyvineyards.com
JULY 21
Wine and Music
Pope Valley Winery, Pope Valley Bring a picnic. Complimentary. Wine tasting $45 Music by Cincinnati Ambassadors 1-4pm
JULY 21
Grove 45 High Tea
Grove 45, Calistoga
Enjoy an elegant afternoon in the tasting room blending your own tea accompanied by sandwiches and decadent olive oil treats. Museion Rosé is available by the glass or bottle for an additional charge. $70, 2-4pm, grove45.com
JULY 21
The Trade Outdoor Marketplace
The Barlow, Sebastopol Shop from vintage and antique vendors, local makers, jewelry, and plants while enjoying music from local vinyl DJ’s! 11am-4pm, thebarlow.net
JULY 21
Sunday Social Club
Summer Music Series
Sugarloaf Wine Co, Santa Rosa Music by TherapeuTx.
Reynoso Family Vineyards at the bar. Mediterranean cuisine by Chef Travis Gee, Know Wine-ing. Bocce, corn hole, craft vendors. Bring your own chair. $15, 3-6pm, sugarloafwineco.com
JULY 19-21
GAY WINE WEEKEND
Various locations, Sonoma County
Three days of LGBTQ+ celebration benefiting Face to Face, Sonoma County HIV/AIDS Network.
• July 19 – Opening Reception – Vintner’s Resort, Santa Rosa, 3-6pm
• July 19 – Winemaker Dinners: – Bricoleur Vineyards, John Ash & Co, The Matheson with Setting Wines, La Crema Estate, or Kobler Vineyard Estate
• July 20 – Winery tours, various locations
• July 20 – Twilight T-Dance at La Crema Estate with DJ Blacklow
• July 21 – Closing Pool Soiree – Vintner’s Resort, Santa Rosa plus after parties & more! outinthevineyard.com
JULY 23
Chef Tuesdays with Jean-Charles Boisset
JCB St. Helena
This is a series of special guest chef appearances at JCB Saint Helena . Highly acclaimed chefs will create unforgettable Tasting Menus paired with the finest and most exclusive wines from Napa and Burgundy. Reserve now to savor this exceptional experience, only 26 seats available. $395, 6pm, boissetcollection.com
JULY 25
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE –WINE, MUSIC & FOOD
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville Priest Ranch brings together the best in live music, local cuisine from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and wine. Music by Full Chizel on the patio for guests. Music is complimentary. Wine and food available for purchase. 6-9pm, priestranchwines.com
JULY 25
Broadway & Vine: Darren Criss Live Tre Posti Vineyards, St. Helena
Come for an unforgettable night with Emmy Award Winner Darren Criss. This special evening has packages that include:
• O ptional 90-minute pre-concert reception featuring award-winning Napa wines (included in either VIP ticket package)
• 75-minute Live Concert with Darren Criss
• O ptional Post concert three-course Vintner’s wine dinner (included in the VIP Dinner ticket package)
$95/$225/$750, 6pm, broadwayandvine.org
JULY 25-26
Annual Wine Country Comedy Fest
Various locations, Sonoma County
• July 25 – Buena Vista Winery, Sonoma, Headliner Linda Schwartz, 7pm
• July 26 – Balletto Vineyards, Santa Rosa Headliner: Joel Byars, 7pm
• July 27 – Deerfiled Ranch, Kenwood Headliner: Karen Rontowski, 7pm Picnics ok. No outside alcohol. crushersofcomedy.com
JULY 26
Schellville Sunsets
Patz & Hall Winery, Sonoma
Patz & Hall has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Sangiacomo Wines and Anaba Wines to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Sip, stroll, and take in the sights of the beautiful Schellville sunset while enjoying live local musicians. $10pp, patzhall.com
JULY 27
LIVE MUSIC – JAMMIN’ FIL-AMS
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa
On the patio, 6-9pm
JULY 27
Summer Grill & Chill Wine BBZ
Peju Napa Valley, Rutherford
Grilled delights from the Peju garden alongside the perfect wine pairings. Live music, great company, delectable food, and of course, fabulous PEJU wines. $250, 5:30-8pm, peju.com
JULY 27
10TH ANNUAL CRUSH MS SUMMER CELEBRATION
Reid Family Vineyards, Napa
Sample wines from multiple wineries, enjoy scrumptious bites created by local chefs, groove to the infectious tunes of California Zephyr and be the winning bidder in the live and silent auctions! Auction items include wine, art pieces, autographed sports and music memorabilia, vacations in exotic locations and much more! All proceeds donated to MS research and MS programs.
$100, 4-7pm, crushms.org
JULY 27
Live Music by Anthony Presti
Spicy Vines, Healdsburg
3-6pm, RSVP spicyvines.com/events
JULY 27
Open Mic Night
Ca-po Creek Winery, Healdsburg
Celebrate amateur performers and current release of Open Mic GSMCC Red Blend! Tickets must be purchased in advance & space is limited, so snag yours today! Food & wines available for sale. Performers must register in advance. $5, 5:30-8:30pm, capocreekranch.com
JULY 27
Simmer Down Saturday
Live Music Series
Muscardini Cellars, Kenwood
T Luke & The Tight Suits
Food by API Hot Chicken, $15, 5-8pm
JULY 26-27
FLAVORS OF SPAIN
St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, Santa Rosa Come for an unforgettable evening of food, wine, and dance at Flavors of Spain Flamenco Wine Dinner event. Begin your night with a glass of Sangria on the Vineyard Portico. Spanishstyle Tapas, and authentic live entertainment against the picturesque backdrop of Wild Oak Estate Vineyard. After dinner, be prepared to be spellbound by the rhythms of Spain when the grand dining hall transforms into a vibrant flamenco den with live guitar and flamenco dancing. $200, 6:30-9:30pm, stfranciswinery.com
JULY 26
FESTA ITALIANA – A MID-SUMMER ITALIAN FESTIVAL
V. Sattui Winery, St. Helena
This is a wine country event you can’t refuse! Celebrate their Italian heritage with an outdoor festival straight out of the villages of Toscana and Lombardia – an enchanting evening full of mouthwatering food and raucous laughter, lively music and old friendships, wild dancing under the stars and, of course, your favorite V. Sattui wines.
Menu:
Roasted wild boar
Grilled tri-tip and fresh salmon
Homemade pastas
Garden-fresh salads
House-made tiramisu & gelato
$190, 6:30-9:30pm, vsattui.com
JULY 27-28
THREE TENORS – A CAPELLA GROUP VJB Cellars, Kenwood
Enjoy The Tenors on the piazza every last weekend of the month through October. 1-1:45pm, vjbcellars.com
JULY 28
Summer Sessions
Whetstone Wine Cellars, Napa
Grab a blanket or lawn chair and pack a picnic for an afternoon of live music! Wine by the glass, 1-4pm, whetstonewinecellars.com
JULY 28
Backyard Nights –Live Music & Food Truck
Medlock Ames, Healdsburg
Watch the sun go down while enjoying a relaxing evening of live music, wine, and food.
Each Backyard Night will feature a different band and food truck. $15, 5-7:30pm, medlockames.com
JULY 28
Migration Sunday Series
Migration Winery, Napa
Following a seated wine tasting experience in the atrium, relax in the lawn area with your favorite Migration wines available for purchase. Lawn games. Food platters and snacks available. $55, 1-4pm, migrationwines.com
JULY 28
Sunday Social Club Summer Music Series
Sugarloaf Wine Co, Santa Rosa Classic rock by Highway 12 Band. Sosie Wines at the bar.
Artisan pizza by Chef Travis Gee, Know Wine-ing. Bocce, corn hole, craft vendors. Bring your own chair. $15, 3-6pm, sugarloafwineco.com
JULY 6
ACOUSTIC SUNSETS
Sonoma Botanical Garden, Glen Ellen
Live music, lawn games, family friendly. Passaggio Wines pouring. 5-8pm, sonomabg.org
AUGUST 1
We11ness Experience ∙ Social Eleven Eleven Wines, Napa
Come for an evening of exploring the world of wine. Embracing all of the other high-quality wines produced on the property including Custom Crush clients. Learn what makes these wines unique, followed by a tasting and delectable pairings by Graze Provisions! 5:30-7:30pm, $35, elevenelevenwines.com
AUGUST 7
15TH ANNUAL MASCOT DAY
Jelly Belly Visitors Center, Fairfield
Join Mr. Jelly Belly and other local area mascots to celebrate Mascot Day! A fun annual event held at the Visitor Center every year. Fun photo opportunities throughout the day. jellybelly.com
AUGUST 1
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE –WINE, MUSIC & FOOD
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville
Priest Ranch brings together the best in live music, local cuisine from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and wine. This week features pop music by Justin Diaz on the patio for guests. Music is complimentary. Wine and food available for purchase. 6-9pm, priestranchwines.com
AUGUST 2
Live Music on the Terrace Merryvale Vineyards, St. Helena
Music: Zak Fenniel; Food: Sticky Business BBQ First seated and tables go quickly – feel free to bring folding chairs and blankets for spacious lawn seating. 5-7pm, merryvale.com
AUGUST 3
IMAGERY WINERY’S WINEMAKER LUNCH AT WILLI’S WINE BAR
Willi’s Wine Bar, Santa Rosa Calling all foodies! Let’s meet for lunch at local hot spot, Willi’s Wine Bar. Join Winemaker Jamie Benziger and VIP Host Jill Benziger for an inspired afternoon of expertly paired food and wine pairings, including a selection of library wines. imagerywinery.com
LIVE MUSIC – VINYLFIX NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
AUGUST 3
SUMMER LAWN PARTY SERIES
Imagery Winery, Glen Ellen
Come for fun in the Sonoma sun! Enjoy an afternoon filled with music, lawn games, local food trucks, and of course, delicious wine! Wine by the glass and food available for purchase. The Organic Robin – Local sustainable comfort food featuring hot sandwiches and crispy fries. James Patrick Regan – Jam out to classic rock hits with pop-rock favorites from the Beach Boys, Don Henley, and Johnny Cash. Food available on a first-come, first- served basis. imagerywinery.com
AUGUST 3
South African Braai
Chimney Rock Winery, Napa
Dive into the rich, vibrant culture of South Africa with authentic braai – where premium meats meet the grill in a celebration of taste and tradition. Winemaker, Elizabeth Vianna will guide you through a walking tour of the estate vineyards. $215, 1-4pm, chimneyrock.com
AUGUST 3
Hot Summer Movie Night: American Graffiti Gundlach Bundschu, Sonoma
This family-friendly event is one you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 6pm, bring a blanket and enjoy the warm summer night with wines by the glass and bottle, food for purchase + complimentary popcorn and candy for the whole family. $15/ person, includes popcorn + candy Club members receive additional perks at the event kids. 6-10pm, gunbun.com
AUGUST 3
Live Music on the Piazza –Jacob Philip Benning Bacchus Landing, Healdsburg Immerse yourself in the harmonious vibes of talented artists, exquisite wines, and the joy of shared moments. 12-4pm, bacchuslanding.com
AUGUST 4
Rutherford Chili Ball & BBQ
Beckstoffer Farm Center, Rutherford 4-8pm, rutherforddust.org
AUGUST 7
Pizza and Pinot
Russian River Vineyards, Forestville
Enjoy wine, beer, live music, and pizza from Happy Cat Pizza. 5-7:30pm, russianrivervineyards.com
AUGUST 7
Paella Night
Six Sigma Ranch and Winery, Lower Lake $20, wine available for purchase, 5-7pm, RSVP
AUGUST 8
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE –WINE, MUSIC & FOOD
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville Priest Ranch brings together the best in live music, local cuisine from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and wine. Music by The High Water Line on the patio for guests. Music is complimentary. Wine and food available for purchase. 6-9pm, priestranchwines.com
AUGUST 9
Schellville Sunsets
Sangiacomo Wines, Sonoma Sangiacomo has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Patz & Hall Winery and Anaba Wines to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Sip, stroll, and take in the sights of the beautiful Schellville sunset while enjoying live local musicians. $10pp, sangiacomowines.com
AUGUST 9
WINERY LUNCH SERIES
Somerston Estate, St. Helena
Join Winemaker Cody Hurd or Director of Vineyard Operations Jake Knobloch for an elevated food and wine experience showcasing limitedproduction Estate wines. Allow Estate Executive Chef Dan Solomon to prepare you a seasonally sourced lunch expertly paired with the wines during this extremely limited and intimate event. $250, 12-3pm, somerstonestate.com
AUGUST 10
LIVE MUSIC – CLASS ACTION BAND
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
AUGUST 10
25th Annual Taste of Mount Veeder
Charles Krug Winery, St. Helena
Walk-around wine tasting, gourmet small bites from Oak Avenue Catering, silent auction filled with Mount Veeder wines and winery experiences and prizes! $195, 1-4pm, mtveeder.com
AUGUST 10
Estate Luncheon Series
Featuring The Big Green Egg
St. Supery Estate Vineyards & Winery, Rutherford
Wine and food pairings prepared entirely on the Big Green Egg kamado grill by Estate Chef Vince Sanchez featuring chicken and estate summer vegetables paired with the latest wine releases. Event includes wine pairings and lunch, grilling demonstration and a Big Green Egg Gift Bag. $150, 12-2:30pm, stsupery.com
AUGUST 10
60TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY
Sterling Vineyards, Calistoa
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening celebrating 60 years of excellence! Start with a hosted reception on the famous South View Terrace overlooking Napa Valley. From there guests will be whisked to the exclusive Hilltop Tasting Room transformed into a Sterling jazz club where guests will enjoy an interactive dinner. There’ll be vintages of wine from the past and present.
$150, 5-8pm, sterlingvineyards.com
AUGUST 10
LOBSTER FEED
Whitehall Lane Winery, St. Helena
Live music, traditional lobster boil, stellar wines. $200, 12-3pm, exploretock.com/whitehalllane
AUGUST 10
WIND TO WINE FESTIVAL –PETALUMA GAP
Gambonini Family Ranch, Petaluma
Taste the unique effects wind and fog plays in the Petaluma Gap wines. 27+ participating wineries. petalumagap.com
AUGUST 11
VINEYARD STROLL + WINE TASTING
Benziger Family Winery, Glen Ellen
A wine educator will lead the way, sharing insights into Biodynamic winegrowing practices followed by a seated tasting on the picturesque terrace. After the walk, stay and enjoy a boxed lunch from the Glen Ellen Market.
$45, RSVP, benziger.com
AUGUST 10-11
Gravenstein Apple Fair
Ragle Ranch Park, Sebastopol
A festive weekend experience featuring awardwinning local food and drink with culinary superstars, top musical talent, and all things apple! $23 / ages 6-12 $10 / 5 & under free 10am-6pm, gravensteinapplefair.com
AUGUST 11
Migration Sunday Series
Migration Winery, Napa
Following a seated wine tasting experience in the atrium, relax in the lawn area with your favorite Migration wines available for purchase. Lawn games. Food platters and snacks available. $55, 1-4pm, migrationwines.com
Transcendence Theatre Co’s 2024 Summer Season
June 20-23
Summertime!
A musical celebration of Sonoma ranging from Broadway’s Oklahoma!, Pippin, and Beauty and the Beast, to Top 40 and Country artists like Rascal Flatts, Sara Bareilles, Michael Bublé, and the Beatles
July 25-28
Don’t Stop Us Now
MidAtlantic Men meet Queenz of Rock in a friendly competition of the greatest hit music from Britain and America: iconic songs from Elvis to Elton and Adele to Aerosmith
August 15-18
Dancing in the Street
A sizzling summer block party featuring the chart-topping hits of recording artists such as Whitney Houston, Elton John, and Bruno Mars, and highlighting Motown’s timeless music
September 19-22
The Gala: A Sentimental Journey A tribute to classic Broadway and more, with showtunes from such classics as West Side Story, Into the Woods, Les Misérables, A Chorus Line, Cats, and Company
AUGUST 12-16
SPIRIT WEEK
Jelly Belly Visitors Center, Fairfield
Participate in daily Spirit Week themes to receive discounts in the retail store (on regular priced items, certain restrictions apply, Café not included). Simply dress for the theme of the day, show up and receive a 10% discount at the register. Themed days are:
Monday, August 12: Crazy Hat Day
Tuesday, August 13: Favorite Character Day
Wednesday, August 14: Western Day
Thursday, August 15: Sports Day
Friday, August 16: Pajama Day jellybelly.com
AUGUST 15
THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE –WINE, MUSIC & FOOD
Priest Ranch Tasting Room, Yountville
Priest Ranch brings together the best in live music, local cuisine from The Kitchen at Priest Ranch, and wine. Music by Radio Bobcat on the patio for guests. Music is complimentary. Wine and food available for purchase.
6-9pm, priestranchwines.com
AUGUST 16
Schellville Sunsets
Anaba Wines, Sonoma
Anaba Wines has teamed up with Larson Family Winery, Sangiacomo Wines, and Patz & Hall
Winery to offer wine lovers a casual summertime wines by the glass series. Enjoy some wine, some food, and some tunes by Dirty Cello while watching the sunset over the beautiful Sonoma Mountains. Your ticket includes a welcome splash of Anaba wine and a keepsake glass to take home. $10pp, anabawines.com
AUGUST 16
Live Music on the Terrace
Merryvale Vineyards, St. Helena
Music: Mundo Rio
Food: La Condesa Taqueria
First seated and tables go quickly – feel free to bring folding chairs and blankets for spacious lawn seating. 5-7pm, merryvale.com
Indulge in a bountiful evening celebrating summer with the delicious sights, sounds, and smells of an authentic live boil of Maine lobster perfectly paired with Frank Family vineyards Lewis Vineyard Chardonnay. Enjoy a bubbles reception upon arrival before we settle onto the Miller House lawn for a delicious lobster feed. $300, 6-9pm, frankfamilyvineyards.com
AUGUST 17
WINE DINNER & AWESOME BROADWAY SHOW
Talisman Wine with Transcendence Theatre Co, Sonoma Plaza talismanwine.com
AUGUST 17
LIVE MUSIC –THE CINCINNATI AMBASADORS
NapaSport SteakHouse, Napa On the patio, 6-9pm
AUGUST 17
Summer Soiree
Fontanella Family Winery, Napa
Pouring this years’ release of Estate Reserve and Per Sempre Cabernet Sauvignons and other Fontanella favorites. Azzurro Pizzeria will make fresh, handmade artisanal wood fired pizzas prepared on-site to pair with the selection of wines. Relax on the patio with musical accompaniment by Thomas Kenny. $100, 4-6pm, fontanellawinery.com
AUGUST 17
The Pink Party
J Vineyards & Winery, Healdsburg
Dress up in your favorite pink attire and come for the signature event where bubbles, Rosé and all things pink are celebrated. Fresh oysters and mouthwatering hors d’oeuvres crafted by Estate Chef Forest Kellogg will be served alongside award-winning sparkling and varietal wines. $145, jwine.com
Sonoma Valley
NAll Pin ot all the time time Pin ot all the time all
Visit our Friendly & Educational Tasting Room
Small production Pinot Noir • Indoor and Outdoor Seating
By appointment: 707-721-1628
13651 Arnold Dr., Glen Ellen • talismanwine.com
All Pin ot all the time Pin ot all the time all
Visit our Friendly & Educational Tasting Room
Small production Pinot Noir
Indoor and Outdoor Seating
By appointment: 707-721-1628
estled between the town of Sonoma and the city of Santa Rosa, this wine region captivates visitors with its rolling vineyards and historic wineries. As you traverse the sun-drenched hillsides, each winery offers a unique and inviting ambiance, inviting you to savor the fruits of meticulous winemaking. The Valley of the Moon is celebrated for its diverse varietals, from robust Cabernet Sauvignons to elegant Chardonnays, ensuring a delightful experience for every palate. Engaging in tastings and guided tours, visitors gain insights into the winemaking process, from grape to glass. With the backdrop of the moonlit valleys and the aroma of aging barrels, a visit to the Valley of the Moon wineries becomes a cherished memory, blending the artistry of winemaking with the beauty of the landscape. Together, Glen Ellen and Kenwood create a harmonious blend of nature, history, and culinary delights, making for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sonoma Valley.
13651 Arnold Dr., Glen Ellen • talismanwine.com
Points of Interest
The charm and durability of Kenwood Depot has survived since 1847 and is now a tranquil park and quaint event venue. Kenwood Plaza Park is located just steps from the Depot Park and offers picnic tables, a playground and a lovely gazebo. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, home to miles of trails, a large waterfall, and Bald Mountain. It also has campsites and is home to the Robert Ferguson Observatory.
Jack London State Historic Park preserves the legacy of the renowned author and adventurer Jack London, offering visitors a glimpse the Wolf House ruins and lush landscapes.
Dining
Salt and Stone is a local gathering place for winemakers and vintners known for its bucolic gardens, fresh ingredients and craft cocktails. The new Golden Bear Station is already a local favorite with pizza, pasta and seasonal specials. This is the third restaurant for Joshua Smookler and Heidy He who have received exceptional recognition. Palooza Gastropub and Wine Bar offers hand-crafted pub grub with locally sourced ingredients. Look for live music, happy hour and weekend brunch. Glen Ellen Star is a culinary gem known for its rustic-chic ambiance and a menu that showcases inventive wood-fired dishes, earning acclaim for its farm-to-table approach. As a historic landmark, The Mill at Glen Ellen offers a unique and charming dining experience in a beautifully restored grist mill. Yeti Restaurant offers a culinary journey through Himalayan flavors, tantalizing taste buds with its fusion of Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian cuisines. Garden Court Cafe is a hidden gem known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable breakfast and brunch offerings, making it a favorite spot among locals. If you’re planning to picnic, Glen Ellen Village Market offers a curated selection of gourmet provisions, offering a delightful array of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and specialty items that enhance the Sonoma Valley experience.
Courtesy of Benziger Family Winery
Annadel Estate
Sugarloaf Wine Co.
Sonoma Va ey
Anne’s Crossing En Garde
Coursey Graves Ty Caton
Casa Bella Palooza Gastro Pub
HAMILTON FAMILY WINES B Wise
Zapata Grill Mayacamas Home
Lotus Botanicals & Gifts
Cassata Sonoma Kenwood Vineyards Kunde Golden Bear Station
Salt & Stone
Kenwood Inn & Spa
Swede’s Feed Garden Center
KENWOOD RANCH
Lasseter Family Loxton WELLINGTON CELLARS Deerfield Ranch
Olea Gaige House
Glen Ellen Star Glen Ellen Village Market Les Pascals Patisserie et Boulangerie The Mill at Glen Ellen
Jack London Lodge
Garden Court Cafe Yeti Restaurant Opalesce
Eric Ross Dane Cellars Schermeister PASSAGGIO WINES
Wine Country Chocolates
Bucklin Old Hill Ranch
Abbot’s Passage
Bocce
&
Bottle Service
Vaughn Duffy Wines 3 Badge
Repris Petroni Mountain Terraces Little Vineyards B.R. Cohn Hamel Family Wines
Imagery Estate Winery
Gather friends and family to savor a glass of one of Imagery’s unique wines while you enjoy a private game of bocce at their recently renovated lawn area. Your experience is hosted by a knowledgeable wine specialist who will share insights into their uncommon varietals, blends, and artwork. Reservations are required. $50 per guest; $40 for wine club members. Includes one glass of wine per person. Additional wine and food options are available for purchase in the tasting room or pack a picnic as outside food is allowed.
Art Meets Wine
Taste and View
SONOMA PLAZA Zina Lounge
Adastra
Auteur
Bedrock Wine Co
Bennett Valley Bump
Caddis
Cochon Corner 103 Fulcrum Wines
Galeata Effect Hawkes
Imagery Estate wines not only reflect artistry on the inside of the bottle but on the outside label as well. For each wine, every vintage will receive a different commissioned artwork to be featured as the label. The original canvas is then received into their gallery collection onsite with pieces showcased on rotation throughout the tasting room.
Highwayman
Highway 12 Winery
La Prenda
Pangloss
Prohibition Spirits
Rancho Maria Sbragia
Sigh Sojourn
Sosie Wines
Spann Three Sticks Valley Of The Moon Westwood Winery Sixteen 600 Zina Hyde Lounge
Bump Wine Cellars
Winery Sixteen 600 Tasting House MacLaren
The tasting room offers a wide variety of tastings experiences and walk-ins are welcome. The pinnacle of their tastings is the Collections Tasting with Gallery Tour. Here, you will be immersed in the fine arts and fine wine. This intimate, seated, and semi-private experience highlights their most coveted small lot wines and includes the story behind each label. Includes hosted gallery tour and seated exploration of five unique wines led by one of their seasoned wine specialists. $60 per guest; $48 for wine club members.
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Imagery Estate Winery is open Thursday-Monday 14335 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen | 707-935-3000 | imagerywinery.com
Roessler
Sonoma Plaza
The historic Sonoma Plaza – once a Mexican military outpost, fleeting frontier republic, and Spanish Mission village – is now a gorgeous historic landmark and “slow” culture capitol. Sonoma Plaza radiates romance around every corner, cafe and cobblestone. Whether you’re here for a day trip or extended stay, Sonoma Plaza offers the picture-perfect start (and end) to your adventures. It’s a pedestrian paradise, so ditch the car keys and discover real wine country on foot or bicycle. The Plaza’s old adobe storefronts, meandering alleyways, sunlit courtyards and historic landmarks hum with an eclectic mix of restaurants, hotels, tasting rooms, cafes, artisan boutiques, galleries – even a vintage movie house. As for the nature lover, wildflower hikes and stunning hilltop vistas abound within just a short distance. Anchoring it all is the tranquil Plaza itself, whose vast green stretches of lawn and immense tree canopy create a lush setting for picnics, cultural activities and weekly farmers markets.
Historic Landmarks
Sonoma Plaza boasts a rich tapestry of historic landmarks that beckon visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s storied past. The Plaza’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the Sonoma Barracks, erected in the early 19th century under Mexican rule. These barracks witnessed pivotal moments in California’s history, including the Bear Flag Revolt of 1846, commemorated by the Bear Flag Statue, which stands across the street in the park. This stirring monument pays homage to the bold pioneers who sought California's independence. Nearby stands the Mission San Francisco Solano, the last of California’s 21 missions, founded in 1823. Its graceful adobe architecture and tranquil gardens offer a glimpse into California's Spanish colonial era. Strolling further, one encounters the Toscano Hotel, a testament to Sonoma’s early days as a bustling trade hub. Sonoma Plaza stands as a living testament to California’s diverse heritage and enduring spirit.
Courtesy of Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau
HISTORIC SONOMA PLAZA
Discover the Unique Charm of
Lake County
W/ine tasting in Lake County offers a captivating journey through some of California’s hidden gems in the world of winemaking. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this region boasts a diverse array of vineyards and wineries, each offering its own unique charm and character. Lava domes, cinder cones, and the world’s largest geothermal field define the area and the terroir. The grapes, and therefore the wine, are uniquely influenced by geology. There are over thirty wineries to explore, with wines to savor. Sip distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc in addition to numerous other varietals. The area is so well regarded for grape growing that several prominent names, such as the Jackson Family, Foley Family, Beckstoffer, and Constellation Brands own vineyards in Lake County. From family-owned boutique wineries to larger estates, there's something to suit every palate. The experience goes beyond just tasting wine; it’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and hospitality while enjoying breathtaking views of Clear Lake and the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, wine tasting in Lake County promises an unforgettable adventure.
Recommended Lake County Wineries
As you embark on your tasting adventure, you'll encounter a spectrum of flavors unique to the region: bold reds with rich berry notes, crisp whites with hints of citrus and minerality, and robust blends that reflect the rugged charm of the countryside. Winemakers are often on hand to share their insights, offering a glimpse into their craft and the intricacies of winemaking.
Thorn Hill Vineyards is the perfect place to stay while exploring Lake County. The elegant Tuscan-style villa is in the middle of the vineyards. On one side of the Thorn Hill Tasting Room, there are two beautifully appointed private suites. Unwind in the shared living, dining, and kitchen space (well stocked with snacks and breakfast items). This is the perfect getaway accommodation for two couples to share. On the opposite side of the Villa, is a private single suite. Sleep in, enjoy the country quiet, make yourself a fresh breakfast, then walk about 20 steps for your relaxed tasting in the adjacent room, before you go out to explore more of Lake County.
Savor Amy Thorn’s award-winning, small-lot, boutique wines, both whites and reds. And don’t go home without a few bottles of Thorn Hill’s sparkling wine, and their elegant dessert wines.
Winery Tasting Rooms
Langtry Farms, and Winery has a romantic, storied history. Lillie Langtry, (b. 1853 on the Isle of Jersey) was a famous British actress and socialite, performing both in England and the United States. In 1888, seeing an ad in a local publication, Lilly purchased a 4,200-acre ranch, founding Langtry Winery, which she owned for 18 years.
The modern-day operation began with the initial 1982 vintage, they have been producing award-winning wines ever since. Whereas mostly Bordeaux varieties are grown, Langtry also grows, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Petite Sirah, Sauvignon Blanc (named Langtry Lillie), and Chardonnay.
Nestled amidst the rolling hills east of Clear Lake, Brassfield Estate Winery stands as a testament to the region’s winemaking prowess. Boasting breathtaking vistas and a commitment to sustainable practices, Brassfield offers more than just exceptional wine — it provides an unforgettable experience. Visitors are invited to explore the lush vineyards, savoring the nuances of the terroir, while enjoying a tasting flight of their acclaimed wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to robust Cabernet Sauvignons.
Sonoma County Wineries & Tasting Rooms
Rockpile
DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG TASTING ROOMS
BREATHLESS SPARKLING WINES
Blanchard Family Wines
BloodRoot Wines
Cartograph Wines
Coursey Graves
Devil Proof Vineyards
Ehret Family Winery
Ernest Vineyards
Foley Society: Healdsburg
G&C Lurton
Gordian Knot
Hartford Family
Hawley Tasting Room & Gallery
Hudson Street Wineries:
• Burnside Road
• Owl Ridge
• Shippey Vineyards
• Willowbrook
Je Cohn Cellars
La Follette Wines
Lioco Wine Company
Longboard Vineyards
Malm Cellars
Marine Layer
Matt Smith/Grapeseed
Meeker Vineyards
Murphy-Goode
Old Roma Station:
• Cole Ranch
• Es Okay
• Hart’s Desire Wines
• Leo Steen Wines
• Pezzi King Vineyards
• Rootdown
• Sapphire Hill Winery
Portalupi
Ramey Wine Cellars
Roadhouse Winery
Rockpile Vineyards
Sanglier Cellars
Seghesio
Selby
Siduri
Spicy Vines
Stephen & Walker
Thumbprint
Williamson
Malm Cellars
Gordian Knot
DOWNTOWN HEALDSBURG
Jeff Cohn Ehret Family/ G&C Lurton Soda Rock
Portalupi
Hartford Family La Follette BloodRoot
Goode
Matt Smith
Rockpile Vineyards
Meeker Vineyards
Bluenose Wines
Note:
Karah Estate
PETALUMA
Tasting Rooms Open To The Public Map is not to scale and parts are enlarged to show detail Check ahead for hours and distances. Breweries & Distilleries
