When we moved to the Santa Clarita Valley in 1992, we had already gotten pretty interested in wine, having started several years earlier visiting some of the better known California wine regions. Even when we lived in Texas in the mid-80s, we managed to keep our wine passion alive with frequent visits to California, along…
In October 2011 I moved into a dream place, a 2 bedroom barn sitting on 4 acres of vineyard. The viognier vines had been left to languish for 5 years and the landlord was planning to tear them up. I asked if I could farm them instead. After a bottle of red wine and a…
This is Part 2 of last week’s Rhone Ranger article. One can never taste everything. Of what I sampled, the wines that really stood out for me at this event were: ANDREW MURRAY VINEYARDS LOS OLIVOS, CA www.andrewmurrayvineyards.com One of my early favorites from Santa Barbara County, still going strong. 2011 Syrah, Watch Hill Vineyard…
I know, I know. It was just a few weeks ago that I was saying that, in spite of my fondness for other varietals, my go-to grape is still, ultimately, Zinfandel. Well, somehow I am going to have to reconcile that with the results of what was possibly the finest group of wines that I…
In this, the eighth annual LA WineFest to hit the historical Raleigh Studios the first weekend in June, my husband had this comment, “Joel’s doing a great job of introducing wine to the hipsters.” The “Joel” is Dr. Joel Fisher, the founder of the event, and he continues to find new wines and spirits every…
Saturday, 20/04/2013, Solvang, California. Just another day we spoiled Southern Californians have come to expect. Moderate temps, just a whisper of a breeze, and cloudless sky set the stage for the Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival. 80+ wineries pouring high scoring reds and whites, restaurants serving some delectable treats, and an outstanding chocolatier. It’s simply…
Your little every-ready bunny (not-so-fresh from the tummy flu) did her best to cover the first Sierra Pelona Wine Fest hosted by Reyes Winery last Saturday. It was an event locals just couldn’t miss – as it seemed that I ran into friends at every tasting table! The weather, albeit a little windy, was picture…
For a long time I have been asked by the GOTN group to do a road trip for one of our monthly adventures. Recently, Gary Stewart (owner/vintner) of Four Brix Winery, offered us an opportunity to come to their tasting room and sample as well as educate us on the art of winemaking. Gary and…
On February 28 I attended the Paso Robles Grand Tasting Tour at the Bookbindery in Culver City organized by The Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. But, before you pull out your wine glasses to join me in your virtual tour, I had also signed up for a seated seminar led by three winemakers. And, lucky…