Eve's Wine 101

NEW Prosecco Cycling Tour w/ Sommelier

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(Bridgewater, MA) — Tourissimo, a leader in active travel to Italy, is thrilled to announce a NEW 7-day “Grappa and Prosecco” cycling tour of the Conegliano-Valdobbiadene Superiore Prosecco wine making area of Italy. Guests will learn about the ancient origins of wine making and how the reputation and qualities of the wine have evolved throughout the centuries. The cycling is just as varied and dramatic as the Vento region’s history, ranging from a challenging climb up Mount Grappa to the hilly terrain of Prosecco. The tour includes multiple wine tastings, dining at a MICHELIN-starred restaurant, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, overnighting at 4 and 5-star hotels, and cycling one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Prices start at $4,695 per person double. Venice is only one hour away and makes for a great add-on to the tour. For more information, visit https://www.tourissimo.travel/bike-tour-prosecco.

“For the Prosecco wine lover, this is an absolute dream vacation,” said Tourissimo Co-Founder and Managing Director, Beppe Salerno, who is also a sommelier. “The tour is rich in history, and the scenery is nothing short of spectacular with panoramic vistas and patchwork landscape of steep terraced hills, woodlands, and meadows. The cycling is absolutely amazing, and the food, wine, and accommodations are as good as it gets.”

The Prosecco area is wedged between mountains and the plain before the Adriatic Sea. It is extremely hilly, with grapes growing at 150 to 1,600 ft. above sea level. A route between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene has been named the Strada del Prosecco (“Prosecco Wine Route”), and it’s the perfect riding playground for wine lovers.

The landscape is characterized by ‘hogback’ hills, ciglioni – small plots of vines on narrow grassy terraces – forests, small villages and farmland. Since the 17th century, the use of ciglioni has created a particular chequerboard landscape consisting of rows of vines parallel and vertical to the slopes.

“One goal with this tour, in addition to cycling some of the most beautiful terrain in Italy, is to educate guests about why a Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG is a superior product, why it is worth spending more for a quality sparkling wine,” said Salerno. “Because DOCG producers—with the limited growing area, lower yields and extremely high cost of production—can not compete with DOC on price, more and more of them are seeking to explore the particularities of their diverse growing area and long viticultural tradition, and find new ways of expressing them in their wines.”

Tour Highlights:

  • Walking the walls of medieval Cittadella
  • Exploring the hills of Prosecco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Having coffee in Piazza degli Scacchi in Marostica
  • Cycling along rolling roads surrounded by vineyards
  • Experiencing a Grappa tasting at a famous grappa produce
  • Soaking up the village of Asolo
  • Enjoying multiple wine tastings at Prosecco Superiore DOCG producers
  • Picnicing at mulino della Croda
  • Learning Monte Grappa WWI history and visiting the memorial-museum

What’s Included:

  • Two professional tour guides throughout the program
  • All accommodations in 4-star hotels (one 5-star)
  • All breakfasts, all lunches, and all dinners
  • Wine and beer with meals, coffee, cappuccino, and gelato stops
  • Two wine tastings
  • Logistical support during the tour and luggage transfer
  • Guided tour of Bassano and grappa tasting
  • Shuttle at the beginning and at the end of the tour
  • Bianchi bike rental
  • GPS navigation and maps

About Tourissimo: We are Italy experts and have several decades of combined experience in all facets of the adventure travel industry.  We came together to combine our strengths and focus on what we do best: create and operate tour programs that showcase the best of Italy. In addition to offering fixed departures in some of Italy’s most enchanting areas, we work with tour operators, travel agents and group leaders to provide high-quality, intelligently designed and exciting custom itineraries all over the country. https://www.tourissimo.travel

Waterford Whisky To Appear On Upcoming New Season of Amazon Prime’s Global TV Series The Three Drinkers

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NEW YORK (PRWEB) – Terroir-driven whisky producer, Waterford Whisky announced that it has partnered with Amazon Prime TV Series The Three Drinkers on their new series ‘The Three Drinkers in Ireland’, which will be airing globally on February 1, 2022. The Three Drinkers are drinks experts, writers and broadcasters Helena Nicklin and Aidy Smith, joined by a diverse revolving roster of ‘third drinker’ guests. The duo were joined by third drinker guests Beth Brickenden (episodes 1-3) and Eulanda Osagiede (episodes 4-6) on their latest adventure. This will be the second Three Drinkers TV series for Smith and Nicklin who also produce the popular ‘Bring a Bottle’ podcast, run the drink, travel and lifestyle-focused online magazine thethreedrinkers.com and have a growing social media/influencer presence.

Influenced by the world’s greatest winemakers, Waterford Whisky has sourced barley from nearly 100 individual farms, some of them organic and biodynamic. Their founder, Mark Reynier, was raised in the wine industry and ran one of premier London’s wine and spirits shops. In 2000, he resurrected the defunct Bruichladdich distillery in Islay, Scotland, and later sold it. Tapping into Mark’s background, Waterford Whisky carefully monitors each farm’s harvest and malts, mashes, ferments and distills the grains separately to bring out the character of each site.

Waterford Whisky, the largest producer of organic malt whisky in the world, has also recently released a few new exciting whiskys. First, The Cuvée, which is a Bordeaux inspired single malt that shakes up traditional whisky blending. 25 totally unique Waterford Single Farm Origin Whiskies, drawn from distinct terroirs of Southern Ireland, have been married together to create the ultimate layered, profound and compelling tasting experience. The second is Biodynamic: Luna, the world’s first whisky made from Biodynamic Irish barley. As part of its pioneering quest to unearth whisky’s most natural flavors, Waterford Distillery has introduced the radical biodynamic farming philosophy, as lauded by many of the world’s legendary winemakers, to the conservative whisky industry.

Smith said, “Being both wine and spirits experts, Helena and I were delighted to intertwine the two worlds during our visit to Waterford Distillery. To see first-hand how terroir has such an impact on the liquid inside the bottle really showcases the innovation of today’s Irish whisky industry. We can’t wait to share this discovery with our audience.”

In addition to Waterford Whisky, The Three Drinkers in Ireland will explore all sorts of drinks beyond delicious whisky, from gin and poitin to cider and Irish cream. They’ll also take a deeper dive into Ireland’s incredible food scene and will showcase some traditional activities such as bog snorkelling, cheesemaking, eel fishing and Irish dancing. The result is an escapist, gastronomic journey with a drinks hook through the picturesque island of Ireland that’s light-hearted and aspirational with plenty of take-home tips. It’s the perfect pour of armchair travel and feel-good entertainment.

Nicklin says, “We’ve loved bringing everything together here, from the food and drink, to the people, places, culture and tourism of the whole of the island of Ireland. We’ve been blown away by the sheer quality of Irish produce too. It’s world class! Ireland is also the perfect country to visit as the world opens up again, thanks to its wide open spaces and easy accessibility – and it’s a great location for lovers of fantastic food and drink to boot.”

About Waterford Whisky:
Waterford Whisky is on a quest to unearth whisky’s most natural flavors. Unashamedly influenced by the world’s greatest winemakers, Waterford brings the same intellectual drive, methodology and rigor to unearth the nuances that make Waterford Whisky the most profound single malt ever created. Across southern Ireland, warmed by the Gulf Stream, temperate, moist air crosses fertile soils to produce a verdant landscape and the world’s finest barley. Since barley is the source of malt whisky’s complex flavors, it makes abundant sense to focus on where and how the barley is cultivated. Those flavors are shaped by place, by the soils that nourish its roots, by the microclimate in which it ripens. By terroir. Waterford is a whisky of the world, born of Irish barley. For more information, please visit https://waterfordwhisky.com/

About The Three Drinkers in Ireland:
The Three Drinkers in Ireland is a feel good, infotainment-style travelogue with a drinks hook that showcases the beauty of Irish gastro-tourism in all its glory. Road trip in style with just the right amount of knowledge thrown in, this armchair travel series follows Aidy, Helena (renowned drinks and lifestyle communicators) and their ‘third drinker’ guests on the ultimate, lifestyle journey through the unique and diverse landscapes of the Emerald Isle.

Along the way, they’ll scope out famous local landmarks and characterful locals before heading off to key stops on their tour of distilleries, orchards, country pubs and more via numerous points of interest, delicious food and unmissable scenery. Packed full of personality and flavor and using a blend of epic drone videography, natural, amusing in-car conversation and sweeping landscape shots, this is Ireland for a new, global audience.

Lodi Winegrape Commission Celebrates 30 Years

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LODI, Calif.– The year 2021 marks the 30th anniversary of the Lodi Winegrape Commission – the grower-centric organization which represents 750 winegrowers farming more than 100,000 acres of winegrapes in the Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA) spanning California’s northern San Joaquin and Sacramento counties.

Over the past 30 years, the Lodi Winegrape Commission has elevated Lodi’s reputation as a premium winegrowing region amongst core buyers, consumers, trade, and media, while providing support for the region through marketing, education, research, and sustainable winegrowing programs.

Proof of the organization’s decades-long work is reflected in the region itself. Since 1991, Lodi’s acreage under vine has more than doubled, progressing from 39,000 acres to over 100,000 acres. Crop values increased from $80 million to more than $500 million, and the number of wineries expanded from six to 85. Wine-related tourism continues to generate billions of dollars in annual economic impact for the community. The recognized Lodi Appellation has become an indicator of quality on labeled wines, growing from a handful in the 1990s to thousands today.

“The success of the Lodi Winegrape Commission hinges on the support of its winegrowers and wine community,” states Aaron Shinn, Lodi Winegrape Commission board chair. “Collectively, we have excelled at our original objectives to move Lodi forward and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished thus far. In continuing to work together, we have an exciting future ahead of us. The best is yet to come.”

The Commission continues to spur innovation in technology, viticultural practices, and modern thinking while serving as a winegrowing industry thought leader. Its programs and achievements since 1991 are just the beginning of the Commission’s success and contributions to the larger wine industry.

In honor of the accomplishments of its dedicated winegrowers and wine community, the Lodi Winegrape Commission hosted an invitation-only celebration featuring a presentation from California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary Karen Ross on November 17, 2021.

Notable achievements of the Commission over the past 30 years include:

  • In 2005, creation of the LODI RULES for Sustainable Winegrowing program, now widely regarded as the most comprehensive and rigorous sustainable vineyard certification in the world. What began as a handful of certified vineyards in 2005 has increased to nearly 1,300 certified vineyards and 55,380 certified acres across 16 California Crush Districts, Washington, and Israel. The program was awarded the Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA) in 2006 and again in 2014.

  • In 2015, Lodi was honored as Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s Wine Region of the Year because of the Lodi Winegrape Commission’s highly visible and successful consumer-facing branding and national marketing campaign.

  • In 2000, the Lodi Winegrape Commission established the Lodi Wine Visitor Center – one of the industry’s original regional wine education and tasting centers.

  • In 2006, the Lodi Winegrape Commission was instrumental in establishing seven unique areas or nested AVAs within the greater Lodi AVA: Alta Mesa, Borden Ranch, Clements Hills, Cosumnes River, Jahant, Mokelumne River, and Sloughhouse.

  • In August 2020, the Lodi Winegrape Commission released “Mealybug Biocontrol in California Vineyards” – a video detailing a one-year project with Dr. Kent Daane and a team of Lodi growers who later leveraged the original Western SARE grant into a $1 million BIFS (Biologically Integrated Farming Systems) grant for the study of mealybug biocontrol in Lodi and the Central Coast.

  • In October 2020, the Commission launched Save the Old Vines – a marketing campaign aimed specifically at the preservation of heritage vineyards. In March 2021, the Commission was one of a handful of leaders asked to speak at the world’s first Old Vine Conference – a movement dedicated to ensuring heritage vineyards a valued and enduring place within the commercial realities of the global wine industry.

About the Lodi Winegrape Commission

Established in 1991, the Lodi Winegrape Commission represents the common interests of Lodi winegrowers with programs in marketing, education, research, and sustainable viticulture.  The Commission collectively and effectively promotes Lodi’s vibrant, multi-generational farming community and California’s most dynamic wine region. Comprised of nine commissioners and nine alternates, the board of directors provides direction and input on behalf of the region’s 750 winegrowers. For more information about the Lodi Winegrape Commission, visit lodigrowers.com.

About the Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA)

A historic winegrowing region since the 1850s, Lodi is perfectly situated 40 miles south of Sacramento and 90 miles east of San Francisco. Lodi’s Mediterranean climate and distinct soils allow its growers to cultivate 125 winegrape varieties, making Lodi the most diverse winegrowing region in the United States. The region also serves as home to 85 boutique wineries specializing in small-lot, handmade wines that have garnered major awards at domestic and international wine competitions.

Lodi is naturally a leader in sustainable viticulture. Created by California farmers and accredited by world-renowned scientists, LODI RULES is America’s original sustainable winegrowing program. Held to a high standard of scientific rigor and excellence, the program emphasizes environmentally and socially responsible practices, while keeping economic feasibility in mind for long-term business success. Today, there are more than 55,000 acres certified throughout California, in Washington, and Israel. For more information about the Lodi AVA or LODI RULES, visit lodiwine.com and lodirules.org.

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

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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

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(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

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20th 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 20th 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 20th 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 20th 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 20th 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 20th 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

HALL Wines in Napa Valley Heads to Guana Island (BVI) for Unique Food & Wine Program in January 2022

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Celebrated California Wine Brand Owned by Craig & Kathryn Hall to Collaborate on Gastronomic Program in the British Virgin Islands

from January 12 – 14, 2022

(British Virgin Islands) –Guana Island, the award-winning resort in the British Virgin Islands, is collaborating with renowned California wine brand, HALL Wines, to offer a three-day Wine Program from January 12 – 14, 2022.  The program will bring some of HALL’s most celebrated vintages as well as its Director of Winemaking, Megan Gunderson, to Guana for a dynamic program for travelers and food- and wine-lovers alike.

The HALL team will work closely with Guana’s Executive Chef to prepare a program celebrating the flavors of the California wines alongside the island’s natural bounty. Director of Winemaking for HALL Wines, Megan Gunderson, will work with the culinary team to create special menu pairings inspired by the flavors of Guana. She will also personally pour wines from across the HALL Family Wine brands portfolio including HALL, WALT and BACA Wines, and be available to chat with guests about the brand’s extensive West Coast vineyards, and the winemaking process.

The Guana culinary team will be creating new menus for the program, pulling as many ingredients as possible from the island’s orchard, including fresh herbs, fruits, vegetables and microgreens. The four-acre orchard has been recently expanded to include three new greenhouses and is home to tropical fruits such as breadfruit, soursop, and papaya as well as more exotic items such as lemongrass and pomegranate. Guana guests also enjoy fresh fish from the surrounding waters, including grouper, yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi.

The three-day program will kick off with a Beach BBQ pairing Caribbean-inspired flavors with WALT Wines, known for single vineyard Pinot Noirs, complemented by live music from a local band. The following day, Gunderson and Guana General Manager Jason du Plessis will host a formal al fresco dinner, offering tastes of some of the most celebrated bottles from the HALL wine collection, including the bold Cabernets for which they are known. Gunderson will be on-hand to personally discuss each vintage, guiding guests through an educational and flavorful evening. The program will conclude the following day, with a guided tour of the orchard and an invitation to try some lesser-known vintages, matching HALL Wines with just-picked produce and tropical fruits that are only found in the Caribbean.

HALL and WALT Wines offered during the immersive experience will be available to order throughout the program. As with all visits to Guana, meals and activities prepared as part of the wine program will be included in the cost of a room. Rates at Guana start at $890 per night.

For reservations or more information on the events, call (800) 544-8262.

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ABOUT GUANA ISLAND

One of the few private islands in its part of the world, Guana remains the most unspoiled jewel of the British Virgin Islands. Our 850 acres, seven beaches, mountains, gardens, organic orchard, dozens of hiking trails, and even our flock of flamingos are the exclusive domain of a handful of guests for the duration of their stay. In this setting, where the sparkling Caribbean meets the vast Atlantic, you’ll find first-class dining, accommodations, and service in a tradition of low-key luxury perfected through nearly a century of family stewardship. For more information or reservations, visit www.guana.com or call (800) 544-8262.

ABOUT HALL FAMILY WINES

HALL Family Wines produces high quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel under the HALL, WALT and BACA brand monikers. Owned by Craig and Kathryn Hall, the family-owned winery produces artisan wines that express the unique and diverse character of the wine country’s soils and climates through meticulous attention to detail in the vineyards and throughout the winemaking process.  The family’s luxury wine portfolio, led by Winemaker Megan Gunderson sources fruit from some of the most prominent vineyards up and down the West Coast and includes eleven Estate vineyards– Sacrashe, Bergfeld, Hardester, T Bar T Ranch, Atlas Peak, Rainin, Dellar-Freidkin, Cook, Bob’s Ranch, Clos Pepe and The Corners. The HALL St. Helena winery was the first LEED® Gold Certified Winery in the State of California in 2009 and earned another LEED® Gold certification for its high-tech production facility and Tasting Room in 2014. Since the inception of HALL in 1995, the three luxury wine brands have earned over 600 ratings of 90 points or above from the industries top critics, including five 100-point scores from the industry’s most notable wine critics. Visit www.hallwines.com, www.waltwines.com, www.bacawines.com for more information, or call 707-967-2626.

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

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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

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(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.

3rd 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

4th 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.