Brad Paisley to Launch ‘American Highway’ Bourbon

December 2, 2021 by evebushman

BARDSTOWN, Ky., /PRNewswire/ — Global country music superstar Brad Paisley will launch “American Highway” Bourbon this month, a whiskey aged in barrels stored in a 53-foot semi-trailer that followed his 2019 nation-wide tour for 7,314 miles across 25 states, from coast to coast.

Global country music superstar Brad Paisley launches “American Highway” Bourbon

“Bourbon is like songwriting, it’s a blend of things coming together to make something incredible,” said Paisley. “These are really special barrels that saw more of the United States than most people I know.”

The fluctuating climate of the barrels’ journey expanded and contracted their staves, imparting oak and char that cultivate the characteristics flavors of America’s native spirit. This well-traveled batch was then blended with three-year, 13-year and 15-year-old Kentucky bourbons to create the final product. The next batch, to be released in 2022, was aged on the Rolling Rickhouse during Paisley’s 2021 tour.

Paisley sums up the creative process that derived his bourbon: “It’s so similar to what goes into a great guitar. The right woods, the right craftsmanship, the right alchemy that makes this intangible, magical thing, and that’s what makes this so great to me.”

“American Highway’s” literal path-to-market wasn’t the only unique aspect of its creation: Rather than just sourcing whiskey and lending a celebrity name to it, Paisley worked closely with award-winning bourbon distiller Bardstown Bourbon Company to create the final blend. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky the “Bourbon Capitol of the World,” this modern bourbon distiller creates custom whiskey, bourbon and rye for more than 30 different brand-owners worldwide and has won critical acclaim for its releases.

Paisley collaborated with a team of experts at Bardstown, including VP of New Product Development Dan Callaway. “You don’t get to see many celebrities that have such a technical palate,” shared Callaway. “It was a super collaboration that resulted in a travelled bourbon in an exemplary expression.”

Callaway describes the bourbon as “A blend of four rye-forward bourbons ranging in age from 3 to 15 years. The flavor profile is incredibly unique. Subtle, complex, spicy, well-traveled. As we like to say, it was, ‘born in Kentucky, aged across America’.”

With just 30,000 bottles of the initial release produced, the 96-proof blend has a suggested retail price of $99.99. The bourbon will be available in AL, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MS, NC, NV, NY, OH, TN, TX, WI and WV, and exclusively online through www.seelbachs.com.

The stats:
Proof: 96 / ABV 48%
Mashbill: 28% 3YO 71/21/0/9; 25% 3YO 60/36/0/4; 24% 13YO 74/18/0/8; 23% 15YO 78.5/13/0/8.5
Suggested Retail Price: $99.99 per 750ml bottle

For more information on American Highway Reserve Bourbon, or to find out where you can purchase locally, visit: www.AmericanHighwayReserve.com.

About Brad Paisley:
Brad Paisley has earned his place in country music history as one of the genre’s most talented and decorated male solo artists. Over the past 21 years, his songwriting and unmatched showmanship have won him numerous awards, including three GRAMMYs, two American Music Awards, 14 Country Music Association Awards and 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, among many others. A member of the Grand Ole Opry since 2001, Paisley has written 21 of his 24 No. 1 hits, and in 2008 became the first artist to achieve 10 consecutive Billboard Country Airplay No. 1 singles. The 2010 CMA Entertainer of the Year’s past works have amassed over 4.6 billion worldwide career streams. Paisley continues to collaborate with Peyton Manning in a multi-year ad campaign with Nationwide insurance. In 2015, the global superstar partnered with Boot Barn® to develop Moonshine Spirit by Brad Paisley, an exclusive line of jeans, hats, T-shirts, jewelry, belts and woven shirts. A prolific entertainer, Paisley’s first prime-time special, Brad Paisley Thinks He’s Special, aired on ABC in December 2019 and has garnered over 18.1 million viewers to date. Paisley and his wife, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, are co-founders of nonprofit organization The Store, a free-referral based grocery store, which aims to empower low-income individuals and families in the Nashville area. For more information, visit www.thestore.org.

BradPaisley.com | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

About Bardstown Bourbon Company:

Founded in 2014 by Peter Loftin in the heart of Bourbon Country on 100 acres of active farmland, Bardstown Bourbon Company, 1500 Parkway Drive, Bardstown, Ky., is one of the country’s most modern and technically advanced whiskey distilleries. Celebrating the art of making high-quality, authentic bourbons, the innovative distillery produces custom rye, whiskey and bourbon for prominent brands including High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch and many others through its one-of-a-kind collaborative distilling program. Bardstown Bourbon Company honors tradition and drives innovation with their exceptional destination experience for visitors, offering the only full-service restaurant located within a distillery on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, The Kitchen and Bar at Bardstown Bourbon Company.

3 Expat Wine Entrepreneurs in Spain — InternationalLiving.com

November 25, 2021 by evebushman

BALTIMORE (PRWEB) – Benjamin Franklin reportedly said, “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.” Not only is Spain a top retirement destination, but the wine industry produces top-notch products and many expats from around the world enjoy its offerings.

Photo: International Living on Facebook.

“Perhaps this comes as a surprise to you, but alongside its many attractions as an energetic, warm-weather, affordable European destination, Spain has the most vineyard acres of any country in the world,” says Cila Warncke, IL contributor. “It is a global top-three wine producer and the world’s largest exporter.”

“Above all, from the searing plains of Andalusia to the misty green fjords of Galicia, Spain is diverse. And with such an extensive, and downright huge, wine industry comes opportunity. Expats who work in the wine business, or would like to, find the industry’s size and diversity make it surprisingly accessible. Finding a profitable niche in the wine industry is a dream gig.”

The report details incomers who turned their knowledge and skills into successful wine enterprises. Here are three expat success stories:

Adrian McManus — Owner/Guide: North West Iberia Wine Tours, A Coruña

The autonomous community of Galicia, in the northwest corner of Spain, has a cool, maritime climate that nourishes a devoted food and wine culture. Adrian McManus arrived 30 years ago and found work teaching English at a naval base in Pontevedra. He also started writing for a travel magazine.

“This opened the door to the hotels, restaurants, and wineries,” McManus explains. “When the magazine folded, I thought, ‘Why not harness these contacts to open new doors?’” Adrian started by providing logistical support for a U.S. wine tour company. After co-hosting several tours, he decided to do it for himself and created North West Iberia Wine Tours. He caters to wine enthusiasts from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, mainly.

“Despite being one small corner of the country, Galicia has over 65% of Spain’s grape varieties,” he says. “Plus, we have history, culture, and some of the world’s best gastronomy.”

Setting up as a private limited company (sociedad limitada, or SL in Spanish) involved approval from the chamber of commerce and a €3,000 ($3,650) deposit to get the company started. “Taxes are a bit complicated,” he admits. “There is the value added tax (IVA in Spanish) of 21%, plus around 15% income tax.” As his own sole employee, Adrian has to pay a special freelance (autónomo) rate for social security, about $485 a month, but that entitles him to a range of long-term benefits, including excellent healthcare coverage. In a typical year, he operates tours between spring and fall. During the winter, he puts the business on legal hiatus, a standard procedure that gives seasonal businesses a break from tax obligations in no-income periods.

“Running tours isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme,” he says, but it delivers moments money can’t buy, like savoring fresh Atlantic mussels with splash of local Albariño or taking pop stars on a bodega tour. “I’m lucky in what I do,” says McManus. “It’s quite an honor.”

David Forer — Master of Wine/Owner of Clos Salanca, Catalonia

In a previous life, David Forer lived in San Francisco and worked as a statistician analyzing clinical drug trials. Now, he is a winemaker with a vineyard in the renowned Priorat wine region of northeast Spain. Between these two points, he spent seven years studying to become a Master of Wine—the world’s most challenging wine qualification.

There was no plan, per se; just a hope that his wine expertise would enable a career change. What got things off the ground, though, was moving to Barcelona with his family and building a network there. “Vineyards don’t come on the market,” explains Forer. “There are no listings, no brokers. You have to know someone who knows someone.” He found his through a friend who knew the soon-to-retire previous owner.

“The deal almost fell through twice,” Forer recalls. “Something that should have been simple required accountants, registrations, and notaries.” The appeal of Spain, despite the red tape, is that premium wine real estate runs around $49,000 an acre, compared to $740,000 in the Champagne region of France or $500,000 in California’s Napa Valley.

When Clos Salanca’s first vintage goes on sale in the fall it will compete for market share with thousands of premium wines from around the world. Forer isn’t fazed by that. “Winemaking is a joyful thing,” he says. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t be in it.”

Mark O’Neill — Owner/WSET instructor: The Wine Place, Valencia

The Wine and Spirits Education Trust provides some of the global wine industry’s most valued and recognized credentials. When Mark O’Neill —originally, from Northern Ireland— whose background was in fruit and vegetable retail, got his first wine industry job, his employer encouraged him to complete its courses. That done, he moved to Spain to set up his own wine import/export business.

Once there, he spotted a gap in terms of wine education: “In my old job, it seemed like everyone had a diploma, but in Spain, it was rare to have a formal qualification. I’m someone who likes to try things, so I booked a flight to London and signed up for a WSET Educator Course. It had been a couple of decades since I got my diploma so it was intense.”

Since he already owned a company in Spain, Mark was able to add WSET courses to his operation without too much extra paperwork. Running them is another matter, but it’s the stuff of fantasy for a wine lover. A clean, well-lit, comfortable space is a must; but more fun is sourcing the crates of approved wines for tastings—Level 2 requires students to taste about 40 specific wines. Level 3 ups that number to 80 wines. Even as an importer/distributor, getting hold of the required wines in the quantities needed takes creativity and good connections. Aside from the teaching and tasting, Mark also looks after payments, distributing course materials, organizing exams, submitting them to WSET for grading, and finally the happy moment when he gets to award certificates to successful candidates.

“The job is ideal for someone who loves learning and teaching about wine,” Mark says. “The biggest overhead is buying wine for the tastings, and it really helps if you can partner up with a wine merchant or distributor to help with that. And unless you can scale it up, don’t expect it to be your main income.”

What makes it worthwhile for Mark is sharing his students’ enthusiasm and seeing their knowledge blossom: “It’s a way to help people get an enjoyment out of wine that they never would have otherwise.”

The full report on Expat Wine Entrepreneurs in Spain can be found, here: Expat Wine Entrepreneurs in Spain

Credit for article: Internationalliving.com.

Twitter: @inliving
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/International.Living/

About International Living

Since 1979, Internationaliving.com has been the leading authority for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation opportunities. Through its monthly magazine and related e-letters, extensive website, podcasts, online bookstore, and events held around the world, InternationalLiving.com provides information and services to help its readers live better, travel farther, have more fun, save more money, and find better business opportunities when they expand their world beyond their own shores. InternationalLiving.com has more than 200 correspondents traveling the globe, investigating the best opportunities for travel, retirement, real estate, and investment.

Loaded with Holiday Bonuses: “Fesstive Getaway” Package at Fess Parker Wine Country Inn // Los Olivos, CA

November 21, 2021 by evebushman

The famed Fess Parker Wine Country Inn (www.fessparker.com/inns-and-cabins/our-inn), located in Los Olivos, in the heart of Santa Barbara County wine country, is currently offering a special holiday stay / play / shop / dine / drink package, the “Fesstive Getaway” Package – available now through January 2, 2022.

As part of the package, guests will arrive to an in-room bottle of Fesstivity from Fess Parker Winery’s sparkling wine program, plus a $150 dining credit to Nella Kitchen & Bar (www.nellakitchen.com), the onsite restaurant from the team behind Santa Ynez Valley’s esteemed S.Y. Kitchen.

The Fesstive Getaway package is also helpful for those looking to tackle holiday shopping, with exclusive offers and discounts at a handful of local shops and boutiques.

The special package also includes wine tasting for two at Fess Parker Winery and Epiphany, as well as 2-for-1 tastings at ten additional local wineries.

Included Amenities:

Luxury accommodations with gas fireplace
Daily pastries and coffee for two
Wine Tasting for two at Fess Parker Winery and Epiphany
Two-for-one wine tasting at ten other local wineries and tasting rooms
Bottle of Fesstivity chilled upon arrival
$150 Nella Kitchen & Bar dining credit (Nella is open from 12 noon, Thursday through Monday)
Exclusive offers and discounts at:

Olive Hill Farm

Coco-Belle Cabana

Los Olivos General Store

Favour (in the town of Santa Ynez)

Heaven Scent (Santa Ynez)

Wendy Foster (Los Olivos location)

J. Woeste

Wildflower Women Boutique

Package rates are open midweek and weekend, with certain exceptions: Package is closed for arrival on Tuesdays, and Wednesday arrivals have a two-night minimum. Fesstive Getaway Package is also closed for Christmas Day. The Fess Parker Wine Country Inn has a two-night requirement on Saturday stays (can be Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday nights). Midweek rates start at $605++; weekend rates start at $685++.

Fess Parker Wine Country Inn, and Nella Kitchen & Bar, are located at 2860 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos, CA 93441. To reach the Inn directly, please call 805-688-7788. Reservations may also be booked online, at www.fessparker.com/inns-and-cabins/offers.

Walla Walla repeats as ‘America’s Best Wine Region’ in 2021 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards

September 12, 2021 by evebushman

(WALLA WALLA, Wash.) — For the second consecutive year, the Walla Walla Valley has been named America’s Best Wine Region in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, following a month-long vote of the public. A finalist in the competition each of the last four years, and now a back-to-back winner in the category, the Walla Walla Valley prevailed over 19 other finalists chosen by a panel of experts from among 250 U.S. wine regions.

Walla Walla Valley – Winner – Best Wine Region (2020 and 2021). Credit: Richard Duval

In addition to the Walla Walla Valley’s first place win in Best Wine Region category, Long Shadows Vintners took third place in the Best Wine Tasting Room category, a one spot jump from its fourth place ranking each of the last two years.

“I can think of no better way to honor wines from Washington state in general, and the Walla Walla Valley specifically, than being recognized by a vote of the public as America’s Best Wine Region for two years running,” said Robert Hansen, executive director of Visit Walla Walla and Walla Walla Valley Wine. “It’s a great way to celebrate Washington Wine Month, and is a testament to the outstanding terroir, meticulous craftsmanship, and the individuals who are committed to elevating the Walla Walla Valley from both a wine production and tourism perspective.”

Although wine is certainly a selling point for Walla Walla, the small town of Southeastern Washington is known for more than its world-class grapes and award-winning wineries. From its charming and historic downtown to its neighborly community, creative culinary scene, and abundance of arts, culture, and recreation, Walla Walla stands out as a must-visit destination in 2021.

For more information on the Walla Walla Valley and its wines, visit www.wallawalla.org or www.wallawallawine.com.

About Walla Walla:

As the unofficial capital of Washington wine country, Walla Walla is home to more than 120 wineries, a nationally recognized culinary scene, access to an abundance of outdoor recreation, and an arts & entertainment scene that rivals cities many times its size. This community of just over 30,000 residents is known for many things, including its friendliness and hospitality, the quality of its wine, and of course the famous Walla Walla Sweet Onion. An easy and scenic four-hour drive from Seattle, Portland, or Boise, Walla Walla can also be accessed via Alaska Airlines daily non-stop flights from Seattle. For more information and to begin planning a trip to Walla Walla, visit www.wallawalla.org.

About Walla Walla Valley Wine:

Walla Walla Valley Wine is a nonprofit wine industry membership organization whose primary mission is to build an internationally acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine brand among consumers, media, and trade by providing marketing programs on behalf of member wineries, vineyards, and partners. Walla Walla Valley Wine functions as the leading informational resource for consumers, media, and trade interested in learning more about the Valley’s wine industry. For more information visit www.wallawallawine.com.

South Coast Winery Celebrates 20th Anniversary

September 11, 2021 by evebushman

20^th Anniversary Happenings: New Sustainable Red Wine Blend, Rhythm on the Vine® Country Series, Grape Stomps, Winemaker Dinners and Anniversary Package

TEMECULA, Calif. – Pioneering Temecula winery and resort South Coast Winery Resort & Spa has much to celebrate on its 20^th anniversary. Commemorative events include a special anniversary red blend, live country music series, grape stomps, special dinners and a luxury anniversary resort package. Since its inception in 2001, the Carter family-owned winery put Temecula Valley on the map as a premier wine destination and also set the bar for the Southern California wine industry by breaking records in both domestic and international competitions – all while accumulating over 3,000 accolades. South Coast offers approximately 45 wine labels and proudly introduces its most recent addition – a special 20^th Anniversary Blend. In many ways this blend has been “20 years in the making” proving what can be created in the Temecula region – certified sustainable production of 49% Syrah, 22% Mourvèdre, 19% Grenache and 10% Petite Sirah – delivering a rich, complex Rhône-style that highlights the best of the Temecula Valley.

Rhythm on the Vine® Country Series

South Coast Winery’s Rhythm on the Vine® Country Series kicks off the 20^th anniversary festivities on September 2 with Coffey Anderson performing with Kanan Road as opener. This concert will benefit the American Cancer Society with $10 from each ticket sold donated. On September 22 country hit singer Dylan Scott performs, and the series ends with a September 23 performance by award-winning Cassadee Pope with opening set by Leaving Austin. Concerts held outdoors in the Courtyard; doors open at 5 p.m. and concerts begin at 7 p.m.

Tickets and more information available at www.southcoastwinery.com/concerts.

Grape Stomps

South Coast Winery Grape Stomps are composed of two-person teams. The winner of each of these friendly competitions receives a bottle of the special 20^th Anniversary Blend.

The competition Grape Stomps schedule:

Friday, September 10; 2 and 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 12; 12 and 3 p.m.
Friday, September 17; 2 and 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 19; 12 and 3 p.m.
Friday, September 24; 2 and 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 26; 12 and 3 p.m.

Tickets start at $168 and include a wine flight for each person that matches his/her preferences (choice of three flights) and a case of wine per two participants as part of the ticket price. Cases can be mixed and matched. Guests reserve their spot by purchasing a timeslot on the online store. The non-refundable deposit is $50 and counts for a team of two people.

Tickets are available at www.southcoastwinery.com/stomp.

Wine Dinners

To celebrate 20 years of thousands of prestigious wine industry recognitions, South Coast Winery is throwing three exquisite wine dinners at the lovely The Vineyard Rose Restaurant. Executive Chef José Esparza teams up with Master Winemaker Jon McPherson to put together the perfectly paired dining experience. Each dinner will feature the winery’s special 20th Anniversary Blend. These exceptional dinners will be held on Thursday, October 14; Thursday, November 18; and Thursday, December 9. Seating is limited to ensure a very intimate dining experience.

For reservations, please call (877) 662-5062.

Luxury in the Vines Anniversary Package

Available through December 15

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa invites guests to celebrate and fully experience all this unique Temecula property has to offer during the special occasion of its 20^th Anniversary by presenting its Luxury in the Vines anniversary package, including accommodations and memorable perks and amenities:

Two-night Stay in Suite or Private Villa
Welcome Wine Amenity
Mixed Case of South Coast’s Award-Winning Wines
Sunrise Balloon Ride for Two
Couples Massage at GrapeSeed Spa
$100 Dining Credit to The Vineyard Rose Restaurant
Option of Early Check-in (2:20 p.m.) or Late Check-out (2:20 p.m.)

Package starts at $1,498. Reservations by phone: (866) 504-6007

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

34843 Rancho California Road

Temecula, California 92591

844.428.6292

www.southcoastwinery.com

Yosemite Region Applauds New Korean Documentary with a Spotlight on The Pines Resort at Bass Lake

August 2, 2021 by evebushman

BASS LAKE, CA – The Choe family owns and operates The Pines Resort at Bass Lake. Choi Kyu-sun, the patriarch of the family, is a Korean immigrant. He purchased the lakefront resort in central California with big dreams but limited experience operating a large resort property. Ten years later, he’s still doing it, and now with the help of his son. Ambition and hard work drove Kyu-sun, his wife and son, to their goals. OnDemandKorea captures their story in a documentary series titled “Against The Odds – CEO.”

Locals and regular visitors to Bass Lake know that this small corner of the world is exceptional. Now, the appeal of The Pines Resort and beautiful Bass Lake has a new audience in Korea and Korean communities abroad. The Choe family story of perseverance and passion showcases that the California version of The American Dream is alive and well.

Watch the heartwarming documentary episode now.
Tip: select ‘Closed Captions’ for English speakers.

“As an entrepreneur, it’s inspiring seeing how the Choe’s followed their dreams, took a risk, and succeeded. With hard work, determination, a well-thought-out business plan, and a little luck, it’s possible to achieve your goals in life,” said Michael Broderick, owner of Pedal Forward Bikes and Adventure in Oakhurst. “Our new business is excited to launch a promotion with The Pines Resort highlighting the incredible single track mountain biking trails a few minutes away from the lake.”

“I’ve known Kyu-sun since he owned the Days Inn in Oakhurst. He was so kind to a friend of mine who stayed at his hotel when their house flooded,” explains Tom Wheeler, Madera County District IV Supervisor. “When I first ran for County Supervisor, I was placing campaign signs on Road 223, in North Fork, Kyu-sun stopped, got out of his van, and said, ‘Remember me?’. Of course, I did. He let me know that he’d watched my first debate and that I had his support. It meant a lot to me then, and it still does today. That was about 16 years ago, and it’s been a great friendship. He’s come so far, and he truly is, an American success story.”

From Bass Lake’s south shore, Michelle Miller of Miller’s Landing Resort shared, “Our family wants to extend a huge congratulations to the Choe Family for celebrating more than a decade of ownership at The Pines Resort! This wonderful new documentary shares a powerful story, and we are grateful to have the Choe’s, and the entire team at The Pines, as our friends and neighbors across the lake.”

About Visit Yosemite | Madera County

Formed in 1985, Visit Yosemite | Madera County’s mission is to draw the millions of Yosemite National Park visitors to its gateway’s many businesses and attractions. We invite visitors to take a journey from the Fossil Discovery Center to the Madera Wine Trail and onward into the High Sierra. Along the way, discover incredible dining, talented tradespersons, four seasons of water sports at Bass Lake, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, and mighty adventures right up to the massive Giant Sequoia trees. Madera County is the gateway to so much more.

SANTA ROSA BUSINESS AND VISITOR INDUSTRIES THRIVE AMID PANDEMIC RECOVERY, WITH MORE THAN 25 NEW OFFERINGS AS CALIFORNIA FULLY REOPENS ECONOMY

July 26, 2021 by evebushman

(SANTA ROSA, Calif.) — With new and expanded air service, a growing portfolio of new or completely renovated hotels, and a lengthy list of new restaurants, bars, and other businesses, the timing of the reopening of California’s economy coincides with a welcome resurgence of visitor and tourism-related services in the Sonoma County community of Santa Rosa.

Photo: Rickey Buckets

In total, more than two dozen new, renovated, expanded, or planned businesses now call Santa Rosa home, at a time when many similar projects have been postponed, delayed indefinitely, or altogether shuttered nationwide. Santa Rosa’s hoteliers, restaurateurs, shop owners, wineries, breweries, and activity providers are now eager to show off their new or improved products.

“My hat is off not only to the Santa Rosa businesses that endured the pandemic’s challenges, but also to the many entrepreneurial spirits in our community who doubled down on tourism’s future, and who will not let anything get in the way of their pursuit of the American dream,” said Brad Calkins, Executive Director of Visit Santa Rosa. “Our resolve has been tested before, and each time we emerge stronger, more unified, and ready to welcome visitors back to a wonderful place that we are fortunate to call home.”

Following is a list of the new, renovated, or expanded businesses and services that have sprung up in Santa Rosa in recent months, or plan to do so in the coming months:

AIR SERVICE

Avelo Airlines – The inaugural Flight from America’s first new mainline airline in nearly 15 years — Avelo Airlines — touched down at Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport on April 28. Avelo offers daily non-stop service between LA’s iconic Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Santa Rosa (STS), the gateway to wine country.

Alaska Airlines – Alaska Airlines has increased its service and commitment to Santa Rosa/Sonoma County with more nonstop flights. Starting June 1, the airline added daily nonstop service between Santa Rosa/Sonoma County and Burbank. On Sept. 8, Alaska will add additional flights to both Orange County and San Diego. With the additional flight, the airline will have 13 peak day nonstop flights to six destinations from Sonoma County.

LODGING

AC Hotel by Marriott (Opened August 2020) – Located in the historic Railroad Square, the hotel offers a blend of Spanish roots and European style, paired with the authentic urban vibe of Santa Rosa and its surrounding neighborhoods.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham (Opened February 2021) – The new La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham is a contemporary hotel, located in the heart of Santa Rosa and features include super-fast Wi-Fi, micro and fridge, outdoor pool, hot tub, fire pit patio area, oversized fitness center, and a lobby bar.

Flamingo Resort (Remodel completed June 2021) – The Flamingo Resort is a mid-century marvel and was the place to see and be seen in Santa Rosa of the late 1950s. Patterned after the horizontal glass and stone design of Las Vegas’ Flamingo, wings of rooms fanned out from a resort-size pool and manicured gardens, all topped by a big, pink bird revolving atop a landmark 50-foot tower. The buildings, rendered with natural materials and iconic angular silhouettes, are the work of master architect Homer A. Rissman and were declared a Historic Landmark in 1996. Fully remodeled in 2021 the 10-acre campus includes 170 sanctuary rooms, a year-round heated pool, hot tub, ice bucket shower, full-service fitness center, Pilates and cycling studio, tennis courts, lap pool and spa.

Holiday Inn Express Santa Rosa North (Remodel completed June 2021) – Following a seven-month closure for a complete remodel, the property recently reopened under the Holiday Inn Express brand. The top-to-bottom remodel included all guest rooms, public areas, and the outdoor pool where they have added grills and fire pits for the year-round wine country experience.

Art House Hotel (Opening August 2021) – The 36-room Art House Hotel, built in a sleek modern design and appointed in serene neutral tones, offers a sophisticated stay, designed as a city sanctuary, and just steps away from the heart of downtown action. Its prime location, two blocks off historic Courthouse Square, makes for the perfect launch point to Sonoma County’s spectacular wine country, redwoods, and coastline or just relaxing in our Art Gallery Lounge. Choose from a Classic King Room with your own private balcony, Urban Escape Studio designed for chic city life or a Glassy, expansive, intimate and evocative Apartment Suite that offers appointed living rooms, boasts a queen sofa sleeper, fully appointed kitchens and dining tables that make dining in a tempting option.

RESTAURANTS & BARS – NEW IN 2021

Warike Restobar – Warike Restobar was born in the search for the perfect pairing between Peruvian cuisine and the best product obtained in the California waters. Three family partners with Latin roots: Luigi, Kevin, and Gustavo bring the concepts of the true cevicheria and Peruvian restaurants to downtown Santa Rosa. From the same family as Ayawaska in Petaluma and Novato.

La Fondita – Roseland’s iconic La Fondita restaurant is expanding to downtown Santa Rosa. Known for more than 20 years for authentic, affordable Mexican cuisine, the downtown location will be the third for owner Maria Elena Reyes. Elena Maria Reyes started her food business in 1996 with an old food truck she and her husband financed by selling their cars and asking her grandmother for a few thousand dollars in start-up money.

Falafel Hut 2 – Owner Mohamed Shawa opened his first restaurant, Falafel Hut, in 2006 with his father in San Rafael. Since then, he’s been serving up authentic Middle Eastern cuisine reminiscent of his Palestinian heritage — shawarma, kebabs, gyros, and, of course, falafel. His recipes, inspired by his mother’s cooking, come straight from Palestine, a place he’s visited for long stretches of time over the years, and where his cousin has been a chef for thirty years. Now, he’s going into business with his cousin, Asem Alshawwa, to open Falafel Hut’s sister restaurant, Falafel Hut 2 in Santa Rosa.

Nothing Bundt Cake – Founders Dena Tripp and Debbie Shwetz started out making cakes for their friends and family and the cakes they made were delicious, unlike anything anyone had tasted and as a result, the side project turned into something more. Local owners Jan and Waverly are a mother and daughter team. Jan’s bakery in Arizona has won best dessert/bakery in the Phoenix East Valley for the past three years and Waverly is currently the chairwoman of the Healdsburg Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs.

Sushi Rosa – From the same family as the popular Otoro Sushi in Healdsburg comes Sushi Rosa, which recently opened in downtown Santa Rosa. Like their sister restaurant, Sushi Rosa specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine with a touch of California flavor, and features the freshest, highest quality fish daily.

3 Disciples Brewing (Relocated brewing facility to Santa Rosa) – 3 Disciples Brewing is the result of the perfect balance that three partners, James, Matt, and Luke have created. Determined to never cut corners, and to make certain every single batch has all the qualities they desire, or else it never makes it to your glass. We believe in our vision and have prevailed to ensure our followers will also see the light. 3 Disciples Brewing has crossed boundaries and blended style genres, yet we keep our focus on one goal: Innovative Ales.

Grill Santa Rosa (Opened April 2021) – Head founders, Ali Cetin and Berat Ilhan, fuse Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, comforting classics, and west coast flair to craft their seasonal menus including our ever-changing Grill Santa Rosa, a four-course dining experience.

Johnny Donuts (Opened May 2021) – Owner and founder Craig Blum was part of the opening team for the first US Hard Rock Café but then he got the idea of starting a food truck and doughnuts quickly became his calling. In addition to doughnuts, the new shop will serve up Crodoughs, Bismarks, cinnamon rolls, and even vegan doughnuts.

Dolan’s Den (Opened April 2021) – Local owners Derek and Trinh Dolan have always appreciated restaurants and bars, never missing a date night at any one of Trinh’s favorite spots. While working in the corporate world, Trinh would always dream of bartending or cooking up one of her amazing meals for the reward of putting a smile on a stranger’s face. Born in Vietnam and raised as an Air Force brat, Trinh spent her childhood in different countries and was exposed to many different cultures. Her love of cooking might have derived from cooking for her 3 siblings as her parents worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. Derek–born in San Francisco and raised in Sebastopol–always had one foot in the city and one in the country. He decided to follow in the footsteps of his grandpa and great-grandpa and is working as a Local 38 plumber in San Francisco. The thought of a career change often crosses his mind but for now, plumbing is first. Derek spends his free time supporting Trinh’s dream of owning a bar and grill during an unprecedented time of entering the restaurant business.

Crumbl Cookies (Opened April 2021) – Local owners Jim and Moley are successful restaurateurs from Ukiah and their son Chris, and his wife Caley (from Petaluma) decided as a family to jump headfirst into this adventure together. A rotating menu with 120+ specialty cookies are made fresh daily, and they’re baked in an open kitchen for all cookie-lovers to see up close! They are still looking for that quintessential Santa Rosa/Sonoma County cookie to add to their offerings.

Huckleberry’s (Opened January 2021) – Ann Bailey, owner and General Manager is from the Bay Area and has always been a breakfast fan. Ann previously managed other restaurants before diving headfirst into ownership and opening Huckleberry’s in Santa Rosa, where they serve southern cooking with a California twist.

3 ^rd Street Aleworks (Remodeled May 2021) – When the new owners took over in April of 2019, they set out to carry on this winning tradition, and breathing some fresh life into the pub itself. During the pandemic, they took advantage of being closed/outdoor dining, and started a multi-phase remodel. They fully remodeled the bar. Now when you walk in, you’ll be greeted by a marble-like facade and seven brand new TVs, with a 75” digital beer board in the middle, which will double as a TV for the big games!

RESTAURANTS AND BARS – NEW IN 2020

4 ^th Street Social Club (Opened October 2020) – The energetic 30-something first-time restaurateurs Melissa and Chris Matteson hope will make the 4th Street Social Club an instant favorite for omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike. A longtime gardener using sustainable practices, Melissa is creating health-forward, yet crave-able dishes (including gluten-free options) such as Jacked Up Popcorn Chik’n and Seasonal Sliders (meat-based and vegetarian) based upon the changing bounty of her garden; currently planted with over a dozen varieties of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Multi-flavored signature micheladas and creative, food-friendly cocktails such as About Thai’m utilizing Thai tea will draw on Melissa’s 17 years of experience in the service industry from New York City to San Francisco.

Nimble & Finn’s Homemade Ice Cream (Opened October 2020) – Back in 2012, Jazmin turned her background as a baker and her passion for ice cream into a new career. She named her fledgling business after her two children’s nicknames and started visiting local farmers’ markets with one pushcart freezer filled with old-fashioned artisanal ice cream. The response was immediate and enthusiastic, and Jazmin quickly had more work than she could handle alone so she roped her sister Leandra into the business with promises of endless creamy desserts. They use organic dairy from Straus Creamery, seasonal produce, and housemade jams, cakes, and candy in their inspired takes on classic flavors.

Mi Ranchito Downtown (Opened October 2020) – The Rodriquez family of Cuernavaca, Mexico established the first Cantina in 2008 and it is based on the heritage of the family. They offer the most delicious traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine and margaritas. When you visit you will discover an ambiance that makes you feel at home, the Mexican-style way.

Grossman’s Noshery & Bar (Opened March 2020) – James Beard Outstanding Restaurateur semifinalists Mark and Terri Stark together own and operate six of Sonoma County’s favorite, and most highly rated, restaurants including the newly opened Grossman’s, a New York-style deli, bakery, and bar. The menu features eclectic breakfast dishes, noshes, sandwiches, soups, salads, platters for sharing, nightly specials, dumplings, and desserts based on Jewish cuisine from the East Coast of the US, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. Baked goods and cured and smoked fish and meats are made in-house.

Flagship Taproom (Opened June 2020) – Who would have known that five childhood friends would reunite to start a business in their hometown? With backgrounds in restaurant management and entrepreneurship, it only made sense to combine our assets to create the type of place where we would want to work and hang out with friends & family. From pilsners to sours and everything in between, we serve a variety of beer styles to suit every palate. We love our local community and love serving our neighbors, friends, and family.

Land and Water Coffee (Opened June 2020) – Land and Water Coffee is a specialty coffee roasting company in Santa Rosa. All our coffees are ethically and sustainably sourced, and meticulously roasted.

Americana (Opened March 2020) – Samantha & Ryan Ramey are a husband/wife duo with a passion for all things food. Ryan is a classically trained chef and Samantha was raised working in the front-of-house of restaurants. They began their own entrepreneurship as caterers in the Bodega Bay Area before purchasing Estero Cafe In Valley Ford in 2014. Americana is a classic American-style diner located in Historic Railroad Square.

COMING SOON

ACME Burger (Opening July 2021) – Todd’s passion for food began when he assisted his father in the family catering business at 15 years old in Connecticut. He pursued a culinary career at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, and completed his apprenticeship on Grand Cayman Island. ACME features Sonoma Mountain Beef (locally raised, hormone and antibiotic-free, grass-fed and grain-finished), Willie Bird (local) turkey burger, the Impossible Burger (plant-based protein), Bodega Bay rock cod, and a comprehensive menu of freshly prepared sides and salads.

Tony’s Galley (Opening July 2021) – Chef and owner Tony Ounpamornchai owner of SEA Thai Bistro and SEA Thai Noodle is opening a new restaurant. Tony’s Galley is a seafood-centric café and will include four versions of the classic East Coast lobster roll sandwich, including Maine Style with chilled mayonnaise, celery and scallions; Connecticut Style featuring lobster poached in clarified butter; Thai Style with tempura-fried lobster in sweet chili aioli, pickled chiles, tobiko (flying fish roe) and green onion and an LGBLT with lobster, garlic butter, bacon, mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Sessions Climbing (Broke ground in April 2021) – Local rock climber Kevin Jorgeson, who completed a free climb of the Dawn Wall of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park with partners Tommy Caldwell is starting the next adventure. Set to open in early 2022, Sessions Climbing is a 55-foot-high, 23,000-square-foot structure featuring indoor climbing, yoga, and fitness center.

Ruth Asawa Fountain (Scheduled Opening TBD) – Ruth Aiko Asawa was an American sculptor, her works can be seen in San Francisco along with collections at the Guggenheim and the Whitney Museum of American Art. At the dedication of her Santa Rosa fountain in 1987, Asawa was there, wearing a floppy white hat and her very best smile as the joyful crowd celebrated with her as the Santa Rosa sculpture was one of her last large works. The fountain panels depicting Sonoma County life were originally installed as concrete. With the completion of the Courthouse Square project, the next step is to reinstall the fountain with the original, carefully conserved sculptured panels re-cast in bronze. Santa Rosa’s Art in Public Places and the Downtown Action Organization are working on private donations to complete the bronze panels as a tribute to Asawa.

About Santa Rosa, CA:

Located just 55 miles north of San Francisco, Santa Rosa is the urban heart of all there is to see, do, eat, drink, hike, bike, and explore in Sonoma County. Santa Rosa is the biggest city in Sonoma Wine Country, yet the town’s vibe and charm are as welcoming as a small town. Central to Sonoma County’s 400+ wineries, Santa Rosa is also just 30 minutes from the Pacific Ocean and even closer to California’s majestic redwood trees. Santa Rosa is home to an impressive array of world-class restaurants and craft microbreweries, some of the best cycling routes in the U.S., the Charles M. Schulz Museum, Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, and Safari West. For more information, or to begin planning a trip to Sonoma County’s Santa Rosa, visit www.visitsantarosa.com.

The New Masters of Wine Virtually Explore Tuscany

July 19, 2021 by evebushman

TUSCANY, ITALY (PRWEB) – Lamberto Frescobaldi, president of Marchesi Frescobaldi, and Gabriele Gorelli, Montalcino native and the first Italian Master of Wine, hosted this year’s newly appointed Masters of Wine, in a guided virtual tasting on the terroir and flavors of Tuscany’s most important denominations, across the 7 iconic estates of the historic Frescobaldi winery. The annual event is intended to support the Masters of Wine as they continue their careers as Italian ambassadors of wine and provide ongoing education, insights and dialogue.

The virtual tasting and tour explored the hills of Castello Pomino, the maritime climate of Tenuta Ammiraglia’s Maremma, the island of Gorgona, quintessential Chianti Classico in Tenuta Perano, the family’s history in Tenuta Castiglioni, the surprising international blend in the Chianti Rufina of Castello Nipozzano, and finally timeless elegance of Brunello di Montalcino from Tenuta CastelGiocondo.

“We like to think of Frescobaldi as an authentic agricultural reality that has allowed us to truly represent Tuscany through the different estates,” says Lamberto Frescobaldi, “This fortune has always reminded us of the importance of sharing our experience and the beauty of the land we have lived in and cultivated for generations. This is why we decided to organize this virtual trip dedicated to people that we consider as important ambassadors of wine culture in the world. A moment of togetherness and an encounter that has been more special thanks to the presence of Gabriele Gorelli, the first Italian Master of Wine, who shares our origins and love for Tuscany.”

“It was an honor and pleasure for me to be able to share the story of my native land through an ideal motorcycle trip across the Frescobaldi estates,” adds Gabriele Gorelli MW, “Most importantly, it was my great joy to have accompanied my fellow Masters of Wine who have travelled a tough and challenging road. It is surprising how great ideas can arise from an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. I wish that welcoming the new MW can become a new tradition for Frescobaldi.”

The event was well received by the attending Masters of Wine and is planned to take place annually for the new class of MWs to fully discover the richness of Tuscan territory and its wine production.

Sweden Creates the World’s Largest Open-Air Bar

July 8, 2021 by evebushman

Following the success of the 2019 Edible Country campaign is the launch of Drinkable Country – the largest, open-air, world-class bar led by internationally acclaimed team at Tjoget, and other leading Swedish beverage experts. Starting June 15, visitors can book a seat at more than 16 tables located in some of Sweden’s most beautiful natural landscapes for a chance to enjoy a selection of drinks and DIY recipes reflecting the country’s 100-million-acre natural pantry.

New York, NY – The world’s largest, outdoor, socially distanced bar is opening this summer in Swedish nature. In 2019, Sweden launched The Edible Country, the world’s largest DIY gourmet restaurant, with recipes developed by Guide Michelin-awarded chefs. The concept, which until now, consisted only of food, is being expanded to include an incredible drinking experience. Drinkable Country features a combination of ready-made beverages that reflect local nature and produce alongside drinks that visitors can mix themselves with ingredients found in the surroundings based on recipes provided by Sweden’s foremost beverage experts. When booking a Drinkable Country experience, guests will have the opportunity to explore the area with local guides while collecting and mixing the ingredients, and then enjoy the various drinks.

Credits: Niklas Nyman/Visit Sweden

“The DIY recipes enable visitors to explore Swedish nature through world-class taste experiences,” says Jens Heed, Program Director Food Travel at Visit Sweden.”The country’s 100 million-acre pantry of fruit, berries, vegetables, and crystal-clear spring water is open to everyone. We call it the Drinkable Country – the world’s largest open-air bar.”

The recipes have been developed in collaboration with four different beverage experts, each of whom has been given the responsibility to represent different regions in Sweden. Rebecka Lithander represents southern Sweden. Lithander has experience from the two-Michelin-star restaurant Daniel Berlin, where she raised the non-alcohol drink packages to the same high level as the food. The tables on the west coast are represented by Bar Bruno, a local gem of a cocktail bar; while on the east coast, it is the world-famous bar Tjoget that will compose the drink menu. Emil Åreng, a nationally and internationally acclaimed bartender and author of the world’s best cocktail book in 2016, represents the northern part of Sweden.

“It is a thirst-quenching journey through Swedish nature that is a completely new and fascinating way to experience cocktails and to discover the country and its natural environment,” says Leo Lahti, Bar Manager at Tjoget.

In Sweden, nature is everyone’s playground. It’s a place to linger – as long as you do not disturb or destroy it – thanks to the unique Allemansrätt – Swedens’s “freedom to roam.” With the Drinkable Country, Sweden invites everyone to experience their close-to-nature lifestyle over world-class food and drink.

More information about the experience: visitsweden.com/drinkable-country/

Video: https://youtu.be/1u-c9YnGbho

The Beverage Experts

Southern Sweden: Rebecka Lithander is an acclaimed sommelier who now works at the locally praised restaurant Mutantur in Malmö. Before joining Mutantur she worked at the two-star Guide Michelin restaurant Daniel Berlin.

Western Sweden: Bar Bruno, a small cosy bar that serves innovative cocktails with a home-bar feel.

Eastern Sweden: For the past five years, Tjoget has been on the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars.

Northern Sweden: Emil Åreng with roots in Norrland was named Sweden’s best bartender in 2015 and has also won several international awards. Emil most recently came from Cardier Baren at the historic Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, where he was Creative Director. He is the author of the cocktail book Salongs i Norrland, which was named Best Cocktail Book in the World in 2016.

The Edible Country
‘The Edible Country’ is an initiative from Visit Sweden to highlight the natural and healthy pantry that Swedish nature has to offer. The menu suggestions of the do-it-yourself dining experiences are co-created with four of Sweden’s top chefs: Titti Qvarnström, Niklas Ekstedt, Anton Bjuhr and Jacob Holmström. The dishes are created with inspiration from Sweden’s varied landscape and shifting seasons. The over 20 tables are placed in Swedish Lapland, Stockholm Archipelago, the High Coast, Dalarna, Gävleborg, Sörmland, Värmland, Västsverige, Småland, Halland, Skåne and Gotland and you can find more information about the regions on our webpage. The initiative is an open invitation for everyone to experience the Swedish ‘close-to-nature’ lifestyle and take pleasure in the natural pantry that Sweden has to offer. Add-on services that will help you during your experience, for example, your very own personal guide or chef and a basket with the necessary ingredients to create the drinks or cook the recipes outdoors are available to book online.

About Visit Sweden
Visit Sweden is Sweden’s marketing company. Visit Sweden markets Sweden abroad as a destination to contribute to more jobs and economic growth. The company also provides and sells communication and knowledge services related to the hospitality industry, tourism, and travel. Foreign tourists spend approximately SEK 144 billion annually in Sweden and approximately 172,400 people are employed in the hospitality industry’s companies alone. Visit Sweden is owned by the Swedish state through the Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation.

Santa Ynez Valley wine country has never been closer

July 7, 2021 by evebushman

(SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, Calif.) — For many, a visit to wine country is something they have only dreamed about over the past 15 months. That dream is closer to reality now that leisure travel has largely resumed, and thanks to non-stop service from 11 major markets to the Santa Ynez Valley via the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport and Santa Maria Airport.

With lingering uncertainty regarding international travel to popular wine regions such as France, Italy, and New Zealand, a visit to the Santa Ynez Valley — which is home to the majority of Santa Barbara County’s 20,000+ acres of vineyards — is even more enticing. What’s more, with California’s economy fully reopened as of June 15, coupled with abundant health and safety measures still in place throughout the Santa Ynez Valley, traveling safely in the Santa Ynez Valley is second nature.

“Summer is the perfect time to escape to wine country, and the Santa Ynez Valley’s six charming communities, California Central Coast vibe, and convenient access make it the ideal getaway for couples, friends, or families,” said Shelby Sim, President & CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley. “With flight times ranging from 45 minutes to just under five hours gate to gate, and favorable flight times for connecting from other markets, wine lovers can be relaxing and tasting wine in the Santa Ynez Valley sooner than they think.”

Combined, American, United, Alaska, Southwest, and Allegiant operate 171 flights per week into the Santa Barbara and Santa Maria airports, with non-stop service from Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle.

For more information on traveling from Phoenix to the Santa Ynez Valley, or to research attractions, book lodging and activities, and create a custom travel itinerary, visit VisitSYV.com. For the latest updates on travel restrictions, modifications, and operations, please visit Traveling Safely in the Santa Ynez Valley.

About the Santa Ynez Valley:

Barely two hours from Los Angeles and a scenic four-hour drive from San Francisco, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to six distinct towns each with its own culture, vibe, and menu of experiences. Blanketed with fruitful farms and vineyards, the California Central Coast wine region’s temperate weather allows for year-round activities of all sorts, spread throughout the historical communities of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang. Destination dining and world-class wines await, accompanied by lodging at every level, all painted into atmospheric backdrops that colorfully mesh Old World and Old West. Visit more than 100 wineries, feast on chef-driven cuisine, and enjoy festive events and design details from Victorian-era to mid-century to modern Danish. For more information, including a listing of wedding venues, restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms, and events, go to VisitSYV.com.