Eve's Wine 101

NATIONAL ACCOLADES AND A WEALTH OF NEW OFFERINGS PLACE THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY AT THE TOP OF TRAVELERS’ 2022 MUST-VISIT DESTINATIONS

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(SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, Calif.) — With awards, recognition, and praise being showered onto the Santa Ynez Valley from the likes of Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and Wine Enthusiast in recent months, there’s no question that the region has firmly planted itself among the country’s — if not the world’s — most sought after destinations for wine lovers and travelers alike.

Yet despite the acclaim, the Santa Ynez Valley’s humble foundation has allowed it to retain, and in many cases double down on, the signature charm, authentic character, and laid back California Central Coast vibe upon which it has been built.

Now, with a host of new or expanded businesses and other visitor offerings, and with travel demand at or near an all-time high, the Santa Ynez Valley is eager to live up to the lofty expectations that have been set. Among the new and notable offerings: the rebirth of a historic lodging property, the silver anniversary of an iconic restaurant, a renovated and expanded outdoor live theater, the return of a defining signature event, and a unique agritourism endeavor await visitors.

“Just when I think things couldn’t possibly get any better here they somehow do, and it’s largely due to the tireless efforts, innovation, vision, and pride of the people who call the Santa Ynez Valley home,” says Shelby Sim, President & CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley. “I’m constantly amazed by my fellow community members who are not only trying to make a better life for themselves, but who are also creating experiences and offerings that enrich the lives of those who visit.”

Following is a list of recent awards and recognition, businesses that have opened their doors in the Santa Ynez Valley in recent months or plan to do so in the coming months, and other new or notable offerings:

RECENT AWARDS & ACCOLADES

Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places To Travel In 2022 — Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual list of the world’s best places to travel described the Santa Ynez Valley as, “Two hours from L.A…rural, unassuming, and coming into its own…the arrival of newer tasting rooms, restaurants, and hotels in recent years has firmly put the area on oenophiles’ and travelers’ radars.”

Forbes’ 22 Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2022 — In its roundup of bucket list U.S. travel destinations for 2022, Forbes described the Santa Ynez Valley as, “the buzzing wine region for 2022…best known for the Danish-themed village of Solvang, but there are plenty of other small towns connected by rural roads, sprawling farms, and vineyards.”

Wine Region Of The Year — The annual Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards recognized Santa Barbara County, inclusive of the Santa Ynez Valley, as their 2021 Wine Region of the Year. Announced in November 2021, the award is considered a Holy Grail in the industry, and touted the region’s, “Stunning diversity of microclimates, a thriving culinary scene,” and, “an appellation and grape variety for every palate, thanks to a unique geography of valleys that open directly onto the cold Pacific Ocean.”

A SIGNATURE EVENT RETURNS

Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley — After a two-year hiatus, one of the valley’s biggest annual events returns Nov. 3-6, 2022. Presented by Sunset Magazine, Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley is an immersive four-day food, wine, and experiential event held throughout the valley’s six wine country towns. Among the event’s many highlights include classes led by Sunset experts, cooking demonstrations, and the signature long table, multi-course wine dinners.

LODGING

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern — Opening soon, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern – An Auberge Resort respects the history of this landmark destination while blending the simplicity of modern farmhouse design with the eclectic textures and patterns of nearby ranch life.

ForFriends Inn — New for 2022, this popular Santa Ynez bed & breakfast is expanding with the addition of ForFriends Village. Featuring six new 650 square foot California Craftsman “tiny inns,” ForFriends Village provides a new and unique lodging option in the valley for couples, groups, family reunions, and more. Each custom studio accommodates up to four people, and all units feature kitchenettes, premium finishes, whisper-quiet appliances, high-speed internet, private porches, and parking.

The Inn at Zaca Creek — Suite and private event guests at The Inn at Zaca Creek now have exclusive access to “The Falls,” the resort’s newest outdoor amenity that includes cascading waterfalls and a sparkling, cabana-ringed lagoon.

RESTAURANTS, DINING, & COFFEE

peasants DELI & MARKET — Michael and Sarah Cherney, owners of peasants FEAST, recently opened peasants DELI & MARKET as a companion eatery to the popular Solvang restaurant. peasants DELI & MARKET offers classic and not-so-classic deli sandwiches filled with thoughtfully sourced, artisanal cured and smoked meats, served on specially-commissioned sesame French rolls from Bob’s Well Bread.

Trattoria Grappolo — Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2022, Trattoria Grappolo is proof that good things do last. In an age of restaurants defined by the latest, greatest, and most innovative concepts, Trattoria Grappolo’s classic Italian fare, unassuming decor, and humble atmosphere have been satisfying hungry Santa Ynez locals and visitors since 1997.

Ballard Inn & Restaurant — Recently under new ownership, the AAA Four-Diamond rated Ballard Inn is being revitalized to celebrate its Western roots and reflect its charm and appeal as a destination for romantic getaways, family reunions, or small business retreats. The Ballard Inn Restaurant recently welcomed new Executive Chef Nikolas Ramirez. Chef Ramirez most recently served as executive chef at Loquita Santa Barbara, and spent more than four years working as a chef in Thailand. A Santa Barbara City College graduate, Chef Ramirez’s menu is infused with dishes and flavors from his global travels to Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, France, Denmark, and more.

Crawford’s Steakhouse — Opened in March of 2021, Sear Steakhouse recently welcomed a new owner and chef Nathan Pietso. In addition to adding an extended late-night bar program, Pietso, a second-generation farmer, plans a forthcoming rebrand to Crawford’s Steakhouse in honor of his family name.

Lefty’s Coffee Co. — Recently opened in downtown Los Olivos, Lefty’s Coffee Co. is a coffee shop inspired by the ideals of peace, equality, acceptance, and respect for every human. Featuring specialty coffees from beans that are farm roasted in Santa Barbara County, plus specialty baked goods from Sandra Adu Zelli’s Crispy Hill Bakery, Lefty’s also boasts an expansive garden space for sipping, savoring, and private events.

The Baker’s Table — Due in large part to its popularity among locals and visitors, The Baker’s Table in Santa Ynez is preparing to relocate this summer to a newer, larger location in a historical Santa Ynez building that once housed the Santa Cota Market. Located at 3570 Sagunto Street, the new location will feature the same artisan bread, gourmet pastries, breakfast & lunch fare, and craft coffee & beverages for which it is known, with the addition of al fresco seating on a newly constructed outdoor patio.

WINERIES & TASTING ROOMS

Fess Parker Winery — Following an extensive overhaul, Fess Parker Winery reopened the doors to its renovated tasting room on April 2, with a more modern design that pays homage to the family’s roots and supports the winery’s more elevated tasting experiences. The winery’s indoor and outdoor spaces were reimagined and given a more contemporary experience for guests while incorporating the family’s unique history.

RUSACK Vineyards — In February 2022, RUSACK Vineyards – the only winery in the Ballard Canyon AVA that is open to visitors – debuted its newly remodeled tasting room. Dubbed ‘Canyon Terrace,’ RUSACK’s renovated tasting room pairs handcrafted wines with picturesque vineyard views and a relaxed atmosphere away from it all. Tastings are available by advance reservation only.

The Hideaway — The Hideaway will be moving to a new spot in Los Olivos in mid-May, as they exit the iconic “cabin” at one end of town and move down the street (aka closer to the flag pole) at 2933 Grand Ave., Suite F. The new upstairs space boasts a balcony overlooking town, and the interior vibe will be much more dynamic than its current historic feeling, with vibrant colors, eclectic furnishings, and a new lounge flair that will breathe new life into the space.

SPECIALTY, ACTIVITIES & OTHER

Dirt Shepherd Tours — Committed to raising awareness about the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, building an active local economy, and supporting small family farms, Dirt Shepherd Tours provides intimate and exclusive day tours connecting guests to farmers and vineyards practicing regenerative agriculture in the Santa Ynez Valley and along California’s Central Coast. Programs include food, wine, and farm tours, wine and food pairing experiences, kids farm tours, and more.

Solvang Festival Theater — One of the Santa Ynez Valley’s most iconic cultural facilities, the open-air Solvang Festival Theater is in the midst of a $4.7 million renovation project to upgrade the infrastructure, accessibility, and technical aspects of the theater. Scheduled for completion in July 2022, the renovated theater will provide an enhanced experience for patrons and performers alike.

Elder Flat Farm Store — Elder Flat Farm Store is a new downtown Los Alamos retail storefront from the owners of Elder Flat Farm. Offering produce, eggs, charcuterie, farm boxes, flowers, specialty and seasonal gifts, and more, much of which is sourced directly from Elder Flat Farm. Open Thursday through Sunday, Elder Flat Farm Store also holds classes ranging from cheese board styling to DIY flower arrangements.

Greenhouse — Greenhouse is a new lifestyle and wellness retail shop located behind Elder Flat Farm Store in Los Alamos. Open Thursday through Sunday, Greenhouse carries a variety of self-care items, gifts, clothes, hats, and more, with a focus on ethically made products. Tucked away upstairs, Greenhouse also invites people to relax for a soothing massage by Valley Be Well.

For more information on new or planned lodging, restaurant, winery, and other openings, or to research attractions, book lodging and activities, and create a custom travel itinerary, visit VisitSYV.com.

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.

Festival Napa Valley Announces 16th Summer Season, July 15-24, 2022

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10 Best Days of Summer to feature Trisha Yearwood, Joshua Bell, Larisa Martínez, the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, Tessa Lark, the Young People’s Chorus of New York City, a “Tchaikovsky to Rolling Stones”   dance gala, Donizetti’s “L’elisir d’amore”, and more

Festival Napa Valley welcomes audiences to its summer 2022 season, July 15-24, with a wide spectrum of programs from symphonic concerts, opera, dance, and the visual arts, to chamber music, jazz, wine tastings, and concerts for families with young children.

“The performances at Festival Napa Valley this summer illuminate the importance of the arts in today’s world,” said Festival President & CEO Richard Walker. “Our mission is more vital than ever.”

“We are dedicating the 2022 season to the sounds of America. From Copland and Bernstein to jazz, swing, Broadway, bluegrass and country, this is the music that celebrates our common heritage,” added Robin Baggett, Chairman of the Festival’s Board of Directors.

Furthering the Festival’s commitment to making the arts accessible to all, admission to daytime concerts is free, including the daily Festival Live! series at CIA at COPIA, the popular Bouchaine Young Artist Series, and the family-friendly Novack Concerts for Kids.

This summer marks the fifth year of the Blackburn Music Academy, the Festival’s immersive summer conservatory for emerging professional instrumentalists, and the second year of the Manetti Shrem Opera Program, a comprehensive celebration of the vocal arts including a summer conservatory providing advanced study and performance opportunities to rising opera singers. It is also the second year of a partnership with the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, with Frost faculty and students playing a lead role in the Festival’s academy, symphonic, and chamber music programs.

This summer Festival Napa Valley inaugurates its newest award, the Maria Manetti Shrem Daniel Brewbaker Prize, awarded annually to a composer whose works will be performed as part of the summer season. The 2022 Prize is awarded posthumously to Daniel Brewbaker, the noted American composer who passed away in 2017.

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY 2022 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

– Opening Night at Charles Krug with conductor Carlo Ponti leading Festival Orchestra Napa in Dvorak’s New World Symphony and Daniel Brewbaker’s Cello Concerto with soloist Sophia Bacelar

– Three-time Grammy Award-winning superstar Trisha Yearwood headlines the Arts for All Gala at Nickel & Nickel benefiting arts education and the Festival’s community programs

– Taste of Napa, Festival Napa Valley’s signature celebration of food, wine and music, returns to The Meritage Resort and Spa with  more than 70 participating wineries,  craft breweries and food purveyors

– The world premiere of Polaris: A Juneteenth Anthem by prizewinning composer Nia Imani Franklin, with the Young People’s Chorus of New York City led by Francisco J. Núñez in a concert that also features soprano Mikayla Sager, tenor Mario Chang, baritone Lester Lynch, and Gordon Getty’s Young America

– Violinist Tessa Lark, recipient of the Festival’s 2022 Khaledi Prize for Innovation and Excellence in Classical Music, and soprano Alexandra Armantrading in a program at Mont La Salle Chapel that includes the premiere of three art songs by Jake Heggie, Jack Perla, and Luna Pearl Woolf set to poetry by Lisa Delan

– Tchaikovsky in America, commemorating Tchaikovsky’s 1891 visit to the US for the opening of Carnegie Hall, with conductor Constantine Orbelian leading Festival Orchestra Napa and violinist Tessa Lark

– 2022 Joel Revzen Conducting Fellow Michelle Di Russo leading Festival Orchestra Napa in Ansel Adams: America by Chris and Dave Brubeck, followed by a performance by the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, in an Olivia Decker Power of Music Series concert

– The 2022 Manetti Shrem Opera: Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore directed by Jean-Romain Vesperini with Gemma New conducting Festival Orchestra Napa, sopranos Andriana Chuchman and Mikayla Sager, and tenor Mario Chang, with participants from the Manetti Shrem Summer Vocal Conservatory

– A Night at the Ballet: From Tchaikovsky to The Rolling Stones dance gala

– Voice and the Violin, featuring violinist Joshua Bell and soprano Larisa Martínez in a program of masterworks arranged for voice, violin, and orchestra

– Amaryn Olmeda (violin), Jordan Bak (viola) and Tabea Debus (recorder) star in the 2022 Bouchaine Young Artist Series

– Michelle Di Russo conducts Festival Orchestra Napa in Copland’s Rodeo¸ Brewbaker’s Blue Fire, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade to close out the 2022 summer season

Festival Napa Valley 2022 Venues and Event Hosts include Alpha Omega, Bardessono, Beringer Vineyards, Cardinale, Castello di Amorosa, Charles Krug, The CIA at Copia, Far Niente, Frank Family Vineyards, Four Seasons Resort & Residences Napa Valley, HALL Napa Valley, Harbison Estate, Hess Persson Estates, Mont La Salle Chapel, Napa Valley College, Nickel & Nickel, Quintessa, Stull Residence, Tamber Bey Vineyards, The Meritage Resort and Spa, Trinchero Napa Valley, and Wheeler Farms, with additional venues to be announced.

Performances are held outdoors on the Festival Napa Valley Stage at Charles Krug in St. Helena, the Jackson Family Wines Amphitheater at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia in Napa, and at wineries, estates and other venues throughout Napa Valley. Concert tickets are priced from free to $35. A limited number of Patron Passes are available providing access to special events including Vintner’s Luncheons, Patron Dinners, and the Arts for All Gala. Passes for Taste of Napa are available for $150, and $295 for the Reserve Lounge. To view the full schedule and purchase tickets and passes, visit FestivalNapaValley.org.

Two New International Events: Symposium and WOW! Meetings

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After the success of Wine Paris and Vinexpo Paris in February, and Vinexpo America and Drinks America in March – three events that marked the resumption of large-scale in-person events attracting trade members from across the globe – Vinexposium continues to forge ahead with preparations for new events in Bordeaux. From 20 to 23 June, Vinexposium will organize 2 new international events for wine and spirits professionals within the Bordeaux Wine Week: the Symposium « Act for Change » and the WOW! Meetings. Both events, which will comprise large panel discussions and business meetings, will provide the industry with practical solutions for short and medium-term changes to vineyard management and sales techniques.

From Thursday 16 to Sunday 26 June 2022, life in the city of Bordeaux will revolve around a broad-ranging raft of events with several highlights that will form the backbone of Bordeaux Wine Week: the Bordeaux Wine Festival, the Bordeaux Grands Crus Week-End, the ‘Picasso, the effervescence of shapes’ exhibition, the ‘Act for Change’ Symposium and the WOW! Meetings.

As part of this innovative schedule, Vinexposium will host two events focusing on the future of the industry for wine and spirits professionals.

The ‘Act for Change’ Symposium on 20 and 21 June at the Cité du vin.

The two-day event is set within a broader context and will question the role and commitment of the wine and spirits industry to the far-reaching agenda of the United Nations and COP 26.

A robust, engaging programme will allow experts and industry members to take the floor and decipher major developments to come and their impact on wine and spirits production and distribution by 2030.

The first day of the Symposium will focus on deciphering key forthcoming changes centring on 3 major aspects that will continue to have a decisive influence on the industry in years to come: changes in consumption and consumers; climate change; and geopolitical tensions. The second day will address the role of innovation in transforming vineyard and winery practices and the revolution in wine and spirits distribution in tomorrow’s world, based on the previous day’s conclusions. The main themes that will tackled will include:

  • Changing consumer patterns: what taste and story will appeal to consumers in 2030?Which back story on the label will capture the consumers’ interest in 2030? What production guarantees will they demand? Aroma and flavour profile, endorsements and packaging will all be criteria that need deciphering. Change is afoot and the first panel discussion – moderated by Jane Anson, founder of janeanson.com – will examine this multi-dimensional issue through the lens of the 2030 consumer.
  • What are the consequences of climate change for winegrowing?
    From frost and drought to early harvests and small crops, winegrowers are on the front line of climate change. A plethora of specialist resources and consultants have emerged in recent years but what are the priorities and how can we help growers identify them and anticipate the future? This impactful theme, moderated by journalist Tamlyn Currin MW, will be discussed with a panel of stakeholders involved in research and noteworthy initiatives in the industry across the globe.
  • Production and agro-ecology: what innovations can we expect in the future? Responsible production is one of the priorities identified by the 2030 Agenda and has become a growing concern for many consumers. What changes should be incorporated into tomorrow’s viticulture, how can we help producers identify good practices and what role should the authorities play? This panel discussion will be moderated by consultant and author Rupert Joy and will bring together a panel of winegrowers from a number of French and international wine and spirits regions alongside experts in technological and digital innovation as well as political figures.
  • E-commerce or ultra-local: how will wine and spirits be distributed in 2030?
    Globalisation, e-commerce, the rise in prices and decarbonisation of the supply chain, price transparency on the Internet, a plethora of information for the consumer… How can and should producers and marketers reinvent themselves to adapt to and benefit from current trends? This panel discussion, moderated by Drinks Business editor-in-chief Patrick Schmitt, will round off the Symposium with a panel specialising in wine and spirits distribution and communications with tomorrow’s consumer.

The WOW! Meetings on 22 and 23 June at Hangar 14.

The production and consumption of certified wines is constantly growing. Vineyard area now covers more than 400,000 hectares worldwide, 78% of them located in Europe.

In response to this strong trend, Vinexposium will be hosting the first trade event entirely dedicated to environmentally certified wines and spirits in a rigorous B-to-B format.

100% business-focused, the event will welcome French and international buyers who plan to purchase certified wines and spirits (*) and have come to source new listings by producers and trading companies that work in this market segment. The aim is to support exponential development of the products worldwide.

Every effort will be made to promote quality relationships in a setting conducive to both business and conviviality, where a cap will intentionally be placed on the number of participants. Consequently, exhibitors will be selected based on stringent specifications and will be able to meet buyers who have confirmed their purchasing intentions prior to the event through a schedule of pre-arranged, qualified meetings.

Thanks to support from the Bordeaux city council, the Bordeaux conurbation authorities, the New Aquitaine regional council, the Bordeaux wine marketing council, the Cité du Vin and Bordeaux Gironde Chamber of Commerce and Industry, these two events will take place as part of BORDEAUX WINE WEEK.

(*) Due to the range of environmental schemes implemented internationally, the organisers will focus on taking into account certifications in each country for 4 types of farming: Sustainable (starting from level 2 certification); Organic; Biodynamic and Natural. Producers who would like to take part in the WOW! Meetings must systematically provide their certificates and conversion schemes.

About VINEXPOSIUM

Vinexposium is the world’s leading organizer of wine and spirits trade events with a portfolio of iconic and recognized events and digital solutions available 365 days a year on Vinexposium Connect.

How Was “Masters of Taste” LA 2022?

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The fifth annual Masters of Taste event, held on the field of the Rose Bowl, was last Sunday and we were thrilled to attend.

This is from my social media post the next day:

Oh WHAT FUN we had at Masters of Taste yesterday! This is the event where 100% of the profits go to Union Station Homeless Services! And it was on my birthday this year!

Traveling by limo courtesy my publishers Moe and Linda Hafizi, was an additional treat! Some of the liquor we sampled included wine from Golden Star Vineyards and Ascension Cellars, Lucky Dog (juice box) Sake, Knox and Dobson ready-to-drink cocktails (full article just on them runs 4/22), Smoke Lab Aniseed vodka distilled from Basmati rice is India’s “first premium vodka”, Dulce Vida Tequila, Ventura Spirits for their Amaro Angelino, Roku Gin, Suntory Whisky, Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur, American Born bourbon whiskey, Woodford Reserve, the 1886 Bar at the Raymond…and then there was the FOOD!

If you want to just see the story in photos and videos click this, for more details keep reading!

The Details

It’s always such a rush walking down to the Rose Bowl field from the stadium seats! I always make an immediate right turn and hit as many tables as possible before resting after that first loop around. This is who made an impact this time:

Georgia’s Restaurant made Gretchen’s Jambalaya – the first booth I had food at and it was delicious, flavorful and not too spicy!

The long but fast moving line for delectable Dim Sum from Lunasia Dim Sum House was worth it.

Another line was to sample the food and meet the host chef, Vanda Asapahu, at the Ayari Thai table!

Golden Star Vineyards and Ascension Cellars, two wineries that I’ve enjoyed for years, so it’s always nice to see them on the playing field.

The detail on the animal-faced macarons, an item you can request for special occasions, from Etoile Filante Patisserie was another cool find.

Maneki Wanko Lucky Dog (juice box) Sake: I saw people sipping from juice boxes and was surprised to find that the cute little turquoise boxes with a playful dog design was holding Sake!

Fantasy Frostings makes a killer cake, moist and tasty. I looked at their Facebook and their wedding cakes are lovely!

Knox and Dobson ready-to-drink cocktails made an impact on me again – see the full article just on them April 22 on Eve Wine 101.

Little Llama Peruvian Tacos made a Shrimp Ceviche Tostada that was full of flavor.

Dulce Vida Tequila has THE best flavored tequila in my opinion, this time I enjoyed their grapefruit, on its own as it doesn’t need a thing. And it’s made with real fruit.

Enjoyed discovering Ventura Spirits Amaro Angelino, also their Limoncello. Nice local place to support.

Who doesn’t love short ribs? Chef Gil Saulnier from Mi Piace made a Prime Slow Braised Short Rib over Saffron Risotto and a Mini Crème Brûlée cheesecake too = so very decadent!

Pomp and Whimsy Gin Liqueur was my first big find at Masters of Taste years ago. If you like gin try this liqueur, it softens all that juniper with other botanicals.

I got more comfort food from Granville as they served up their Uptown Mac n’ Cheese!

American Born bourbon whiskey was tasty, again on its own, no mixer needed!

World Empanadas baked several varieties, I wanted to try them all but settled on sharing a Nutella-filled one with my husband. Family run, locally owned and Vegan too.

Woodford Reserve had a huge area just at the entrance, and made a refreshing slush cocktail with their bourbon, lemonade and cranberry juice. I wanted a second one, but that would not do with all that we had to try!

The 1886 Bar at the Raymond always make the best cocktails, on the field and in their Pasadena restaurant!

Bertha Mae’s brownies, in all kinds of flavors, were yummy.

There was quite a buzz going for the Jicama Shrimp Tacos from Mercado! They were sooooo good!

Smoke Lab Aniseed vodka distilled from Basmati rice is India’s “first premium vodka”, and not at all like the sweet or thick Sambuca anise liqueur.

Mignon Chocolate had their fountain flowing and I had a nice freshly dipped strawberry from them!

Enjoyed the Suntory whisky booth for the whisky and the Roku gin.

Seeing two of the Drago brothers and trying their pasta with pork sausage and Gorgonzola from Drago Centre was a big thrill for me.

See all of the Masters and their social media outlets here  https://mastersoftastela.com/masters/

2022 Host Chef Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai

Vanda Asapahu is the second-generation owner and chef of Ayara Thai and Ayara Luk in Los Angeles, CA. Vanda worked with non-profit organizations and the United Nations in Thailand. Living in Thailand allowed Vanda to revive old family recipes and travel through the different regions to discover new tastes and inspirations…read more here.

From the Start

Our mission was to create a unique event that would benefit an organization that focuses on addressing and resolving the issues surrounding homelessness in the San Gabriel Valley. The solution was to produce a one-of-a-kind, premier food and beverage festival for those who appreciate delicious food, cocktails, and sweets! Anyone who attends Masters of Taste can feel confident that they’re making an impact in their community because 100% of the proceeds help Union Station Homeless Services end homelessness and rebuild lives.

2022 Platinum Sponsors

The House of @suntorywhisky and Judith L. Chiara Foundation.

http://www.MastersofTasteLA.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mastersoftaste/

https://www.facebook.com/MastersOfTaste

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

America’s Best Wine Festival Returns to Sonoma with 40+ Garagiste Winemakers April 30th

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PASO ROBLES, CALIF. (PRWEB) – America’s Best Wine Festival, The Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure, returns to Sonoma on April 30th offering rare access to the region’s best, hard-to-find wines from over 40 micro-production, commercial wineries from Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lodi, Sierra Foothills and Livermore and more. The festival will once again be held at the Sonoma Veterans Memorial Hall, walking distance from Sonoma’s historic downtown plaza. Tickets are on sale here.

Of this year’s 40+ wineries, 17 are brand new to the Garagiste Festival, including Accenti Wines, Amrita Cellars, Boete Winery, Box Wine Company, Brueskok Cellars, Cazadero Winery, Cormorant Cellars, Forgotten Union Wines, Guererro Fernandez Wines, Kobler Estate, Lussier Wine Co., Read Holland Wines, Rondure Wines, Stringer Cellars, Terre et Sang, The Grenachista Wine Co., and Wild Rising Wines.

“We are so excited to bring our Northern Exposure festival back to one of California’s most stunning wine regions, after a two year absence,” said Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick. “If it is anything like our recent Paso and Solvang festival returns, it will be a joyful reunion of some of the region’s best, most exciting winemakers with one of the most passionate, dedicated and fun-loving audiences the wine industry has to offer.’

The Garagiste Festival premiered in 2011 and is the nation’s first and only festival to showcase the wines of micro-production commercial ‘garagiste*’ winemakers. It expanded to Sonoma in 2018 to highlight the wines of Sonoma County and surrounding AVAs, as well as other small production wineries from Northern California. Named ‘Best of Fests’ and the ‘Best Wine Festival in the USA,’ the festival showcases under-the-radar, innovative, commercial winemakers who handcraft 1500 cases or less of wine.

“Over 90% of Northern Exposure participants do not have a tasting room, and you will never find these wines in grocery stores or on wine country maps,” continued Minnick. “The festival offers wine lovers a singular chance to discover and meet the next great winemakers, taste their delicious and diverse wines and talk to them directly about their winemaking styles. And it is all offered under one roof in the festival’s signature ‘no snobs allowed’ atmosphere.”

The 4th annual Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure will be held on Saturday, April 30, at the Sonoma Veterans Building and includes:

  • VIP Rare and Reserve Tasting (1-2pm), featuring library, club only or reserve wines, only being poured during this first hour
  • Grand Tasting (2pm-5pm) featuring over 150 wines and 25 different grape varieties, and includes complimentary cheese and charcuterie, along with delicious food samples from local artisan vendors and a souvenir Stolzle crystal wine glass.
  • Silent Wine Auction with proceeds supporting the Garagiste Scholarship at Cal Poly SLO, to help fund the future of California winemaking.

Among the 40+ winemakers scheduled to pour are:
*Accenti Wiens, *Amrita Cellars, *Boete Winery, *Box Wine Company, *Brueskok Cellars, Burning Bench, Calstar Cellars, *Cazadero Winery, *Cormorant Cellars, Crux Winery, Cutruzzola Vineyards, Dane Cellars, DeWitt Vineyard, Enriquez Wines, *Forgotten Union Wines, Gondak Cellars, *Guerrero Fernandez Wines, Kendric Vineyards, *Kobler Estate, *Lussier Wine Co, Merisi Wines, Montagne Russe, Murder Ridge, Passagio Wines, Perri Jaye Vineyards, Pine Mountain Vineyard, *Read Holland, Ricci Vineyards, Rock & Clay Wines, *Rondure Wines, Sosie Wines, St. Romedius Wines, *Stringer Cellars, T. Berkley Wines, *Terre et Sang, *The Grenachista Wine Co, Topel Winery, Weatherborne Wine Co, *Wild Rising Wines.
*New to the festival

COVID-19 Prevention Measures/Requirements
Please note that we are closely monitoring the current situation to ensure the health and safety of all those attending the Sonoma Garagiste Festival. Because our events are being held indoors, as the event approaches, attendees will receive regular updates regarding current protocols and procedures that may be required to attend The Garagiste Wine Festival, including any changes to policies and procedures from Sonoma County. Updates will be shared on our Sonoma 2022 Event Page, through our social media channels, and direct to ticket holders via email.

For more information and full Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure schedule details, go to: http://www.garagistefestival.com/

Tickets are limited for Garagiste Festival Northern Exposure. Garagiste Festivals always sell out in advance. To buy tickets, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/4th-annual-garagiste-wine-festival-northern-exposure-tickets-269198980397

For breaking Garagiste Festival news and special discounts, sign-up for our free newsletter, The Dirt, at https://www.garagistefestival.com/garagiste-blog or follow us on Twitter (@GaragisteFest) or Facebook.

Sponsors include
G3 Enterprises, Bank of Marin, ETS, Laffort USA, Digital Dogma, Farm Credit West, mWEBB Communications, Glenn Burdette, Sonoma Valley Sun, WIVI.

For sponsorship info, email info@garagistefestival.com.

About The Garagiste Wine Festival
The Garagiste Wine Festival (http://www.garagistefestival.com), named “Best of the Fests” for 2019 by Fest Forums and the ‘Best Wine Festival in the US in 2018 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards, is the first and only wine festival dedicated to the undiscovered and under-recognized American artisan ‘garagiste’ micro-wineries who are making some of the best, most exciting, handcrafted small-lot production wines in the world. Founded by fellow garagistes Stewart McLennan and Douglas Minnick, the Garagiste Festivals are committed to discovering the best and most innovative limited-production winemakers and promoting and showcasing them to a broad audience of discerning wine consumers. In addition to its flagship annual festival in Paso Robles, CA, the Garagiste Festival line-up includes Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure, featuring Santa Ynez Valley garagistes; the Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure, in Los Angeles; the Garagiste Festival, Northern Exposure, in Sonoma; winemaker dinners, a newsletter, garagiste profiles and more.

In addition to being named the US’ Best Wine Festival, the Garagiste Festival was named one of the ‘Top Nine Incredible Epicurean Vacations’ in the world by ABC News, “one of the premier wine events of the year,” by the LA Times and “Best Festival” by Sunset Magazine’s ‘Best of the West.’ The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department.

*Garagiste (garage-east) is a term originally used in the Bordeaux region of France to denigrate renegade small-lot wine makers, sometimes working in their “garages” (anything considered not a chateau), who refused to follow the “rules,” and is now a full-fledged movement responsible for making some of the best wine in the world. The Garagiste Festivals were the first to shine a light on the American garagiste winemaker in 2011.

New Vintages And Harmonious Melodies Bring Springtime Fun to Walla Walla

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WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Walla Walla’s panoramic Blue Mountains, springtime blooms, and verdant vines are calling.  The valley is abuzz with upcoming activities such as Spring Kick-Off Weekend, Spring Release Weekend, and live music at the newly launched Wine Country Amphitheater.

Spring Kick-Off Weekend, April 1 -3, marks the start of the 2022 wine season as vines emerge from hibernation. It’s the perfect time to taste, savor, and stock up on newly released rosés, whites, and valley reds. For oenophiles who can’t make it to Walla Walla in early April or for those who are looking for an excuse to return, Spring Release Weekend, May 6 – 8, continues the viticultural celebrations when winery and tasting room teams curate memorable experiences with live music, food, and wine pairings to showcase the latest releases. Visit the Walla Walla Valley Wine events page for a complete list of happenings.

“Walla Walla comes alive in spring as the temperatures rise, the vines wake up, and locals and visitors celebrate the changing of the season,” says Robert Hansen, executive director of Visit Walla Walla. “With marquee wine events, accessible outdoor recreation, and all the charms of downtown and the surrounding valley, it’s the perfect time to visit. “

The new Wine Country Amphitheater (capacity 5,000) will launch its first concert series collaborating with Wine Country Concerts in early summer. The amphitheater is located inside the Veterans Memorial Golf Course and within walking distance from downtown. Grammy-nominated ZZ Tops will kick off the season in June, the entire concert series line-up is coming soon but is set to include Grammy award-winning Maren Morris, country music star Aaron Lewis, and blues legend Bonnie Raitt. All tickets will be general admission lawn seating, and food and drinks will be available for purchase through onsite food trucks. For more information, visit  WineCountryConcerts.com.

Combine a wine tasting or concert series with some of Walla Walla’s other offerings for a truly memorable visit. Enjoy a show at the Gesa Power House Theater or experience Walla Walla’s history with a visit to Fort Walla Walla Museum. Explore the Stay & Play Golf packages featuring one of Washington’s top golf courses. And while Walla Walla has no shortage of delectable dining establishments, various Gourmet Grab & Go options are available for an impromptu picnic in the park.

To explore more or begin planning a visit to Walla Walla, visit wallawalla.org.

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, an abundance of easily accessible nearby 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.

Stags Leap District Winegrowers Announces Esteemed Culinary Partners for Vineyard to Vintner, April 22-24, 2022

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NAPA, CALIF. (PRWEB) – Offering even more reasons to attend its signature gathering, Stags Leap District Winegrowers today announced the roster of elite chefs and culinary partners for the 2022 Vineyard to Vintner weekend. The annual celebration brings Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts together with vintners, winemakers and principals for exclusive tastings, in-depth education and exquisite meals. This year’s event will be held Friday through Sunday, April 22 to 24, 2022.

“While renowned wines and rare library offerings take the spotlight throughout the weekend, guests will also be treated to an array of opulent menus designed to beautifully complement the power and grace of Stags Leap District varietals,” said Nancy Bialek, Executive Director of Stags Leap District Winegrowers. “We’re thrilled to welcome some of the region’s most exciting chefs to Vineyard to Vintner this year.”

Culinary partners include Michelin-starred and Wine Spectator Award-winning chef Ken Frank of La Toque; chef Daniel Gomez, who has more than 15 years of experience at Michelin-starred restaurants including The French Laundry and Cyrus; cookbook author and acclaimed Napa Valley chef Peter Hall; Top Chef finalist and fan favorite Casey Thompson of the newly opened Folk Table restaurant; chef, restaurateur and author Tanya Holland of Brown Sugar Kitchen fame; executive winery chef Travis Westrope of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, along with Elaine Bell Catering; and Tracy and John Anderson, proprietors of Woodhouse Chocolates in St. Helena.

Featured Vineyard to Vintner Culinary Highlights:
Library Wine Dinners: Friday, April 22 // 6:30PM – 10:00PM

  • An Illuminating Wine and Food Experience with Chef, Author and Restaurateur Tanya Holland, hosted at Chimney Rock Winery with Shafer Vineyards and Quixote Winery
  • Homegrown: An Exploration of Fine Wines and Farm-to-Table Dining in Stags Leap District with Chef Casey Thompson, hosted at Regusci Winery with Lindstrom Wines and Stags’ Leap Winery
  • NOLA in Napa with Chef and Author Peter Hall, hosted at Silverado Vineyards with Cliff Lede Vineyards and Ilsley Vineyards
  • A Feast of Legendary Wine and Food with Chef Travis Westrope and Elaine Bell Catering, hosted at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars with Pine Ridge Vineyards, Malk Family Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards
  • An Evening Under the Stars with SLD’s Pioneering Families with Chef Daniel Gomez, hosted at Taylor Family Vineyards with Clos Du Val and Steltzner Vineyards

Vintner-Hosted Gala Luncheon and Appellation Collection Preview: Saturday, April 23 // 12:30PM – 3:00PM at Stags’ Leap Winery.

Guests, vintners and winemakers will join in a celebratory champagne welcome followed by a strolling lunch prepared by Michelin-starred and Wine Spectator Award-winning chef Ken Frank of famed Napa Valley restaurant La Toque, along with specialties from Tracy and John Anderson of Woodhouse Chocolates of St. Helena. Vintners will showcase critically acclaimed wines as well as a sneak preview of the Stags Leap District 2019 Appellation Collection Cabernet Sauvignons, scheduled for release in October 2022.

The full Vineyard to Vintner weekend also comprises “Digging Deeper: Vineyard Walks, Talks and Tastings,” on Saturday, April 23, and “Savor SLD,” exclusive winery tasting experiences, on Sunday April 24. Guests will have the chance to fully explore the region while tasting wines and meeting with vintners from 16 famed properties, including Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Clos Du Val, Ilsley Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines, Malk Family Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Shafer Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery, Steltzner Vineyards, and Taylor Family Vineyards.

Tickets, Schedule and Additional Information
A limited number of tickets remain available and can be purchased at http://www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V. The Friday through Saturday experience (April 22-24, 2022) is $1,200 per person, which includes the entire weekend’s offerings. Visit http://www.stagsleapdistrict.com/V2V for the full schedule and other details.

About Stags Leap District Winegrowers
The Stags Leap District Winegrowers is a non-profit association of vintners and growers united by the mission of enhancing the reputation of the appellation and its wines and sharing its quality with the wine-loving world. The SLDWA is comprised of 16 wineries and 9 grower members. Wineries include: Baldacci Family Vineyards, Chimney Rock Winery, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Clos Du Val, Ilsley Vineyards, Lindstrom Wines, Malk Family Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Quixote Winery, Regusci Winery, Shafer Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Stags’ Leap Winery, Steltzner Vineyards, and Taylor Family Vineyards. To learn more about the Stags Leap District, please visit stagsleapdistrict.

com or find the Association on Facebook.com/StagsLeapDistrict, Instagram.com/StagsLeapAVA and Twitter @StagsLeapAVA.

Walla Walla’s L’Ecole N° 41 Winery Announces Woodinville Location

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WALLA WALLA, Wash. – L’Ecole N° 41, one of Walla Walla’s early founding family wineries, has announced their plan to open a new Woodinville Location in Wine Walk Row at MainStreet Property Group’s ‘The Schoolhouse District.’

Nearly forty years after their founding, the new location will be the winery’s first Western Washington location. The design of the new space will take inspiration from L’Ecole’s Historic Frenchtown Schoolhouse tasting room located in the Walla Walla Valley. Closer to the vital Puget Sound market, it will afford the winery the opportunity to welcome visitors to gather and enjoy their many internationally recognized bottlings, including winery-exclusive releases.

“We’ve long-considered expanding our flagship Walla Walla Valley location into the Seattle area, and particularly the Woodinville area. The new Schoolhouse District incorporates modern architecture built around a renovated historic schoolhouse building – soon to be occupied by a second location of Walla Walla Steak Co. The whole prospect felt serendipitous,” said Marty Clubb, L’Ecole’s Owner & Managing Winemaker. “We are looking forward to providing a L’Ecole experience in a totally new space, yet with a familiar feel. To design the space, we are working with Boxwood Architects and my daughter, Rebecca Clubb-Olson, as our design consultant.” He continued, “with the quality team behind The Schoolhouse District, including Angela Oliveri of First Western Properties, MainStreet Property Group, and R|Miller construction – we are confident that we will deliver on the promise of a truly unique visitor experience.”

Anticipated to open in June 2022, L’Ecole will kick off its opening with a month of new vintage releases and select library offerings pulled from their Schoolhouse cellar in the Walla Walla Valley. L’Ecole’s Vins de L’Ecole Wine Club members will also be invited to join a special grand opening event. Details may be found on L’Ecole’s website.

Housed in the historic Frenchtown schoolhouse depicted on its label, L’Ecole has earned international acclaim for producing expressive, distinctive wines that reflect the unmistakable typicity of Washington State and the unique terroir of their Walla Walla Valley vineyards. L’Ecole N° 41 has been recognized as Winery of the Year by Wine and Spirits Magazine 15 times.

“A Taste of the Back Roads” Grand Tasting

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The Back Roads Wineries of Paso Robles, a group of over 30 family-owned boutique wineries located south of Hwy 46 and east of Hwy 101, will be holding a Grand Tasting event showcasing their unique and diversified wines. Many of the wineries will be pouring their Spring Releases, in conjunction with Spring Release Weekend.

Dinner is provided for all attendees and will consist of Fried Chicken with Cole Slaw, Chili & Corn Bread and Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream for Dessert.

The Main event will feature live music by The Mother Corn Shuckers, as well as Country & Line Dancing.

The event will be held in the Barrel Room Event Center at Cass Winery on Saturday, March 19th from 7-9pm, with tasting provided by 20 participating wineries.

The Reserve VIP Tasting includes paired appetizers from each of the participating wineries, access to their Reserve or Library selections, as well as dinner. Early entry at 6pm.

VIP Entry 6PM                 General Admission 7-9pm

General Admission – $95.00 (includes dinner & wristband for tasting)

Reserve VIP – $125 (includes early entry at 6PM, access to Reserve & Library tastings, paired appetizers & dinner)

Designated Driver – $40 (Includes dinner, does NOT include wristband for tasting)

PARTICIPATING WINERIES:

Ascension Cellars

Barr Estate Winery

Bella Luna Estate Winery

Bovino Vineyards

Cass Winery

Defiance Vineyard

Demeter Family Cellars

Dresser Winery by Gelfand

Ellas Vineyard

Glunz Family Winery & Cellars

Mitchella Vineyard & Winery

Pear Valley Vineyards

Penman Springs Vineyard

Rasmussen Vineyards & Winery

Rava Wines

RF Fine Wines

Sculpterra Winery

Seven Angels Cellars

STANGER Vineyards

Steinbeck Vineyards & Winery

Still Waters Vineyards

Non-Profit Partners:

#pasowineBRW
PURCHASE TICKETS

NEW ORLEANS WINE AND FOOD EXPERIENCE CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – In honor of the 30th anniversary of the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, the Board of Directors has announced a special pre-sale Grand Tasting ticket price of $99, more than 30% off the full ticket price. NOWFE 2022 is a six-day event scheduled for June 7 – 12. The two Grand Tastings will take place Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11. Individual tickets will be available at www.nowfe.com from January 20 through February 28, 2022.

“We are proud to have been a part of the New Orleans hospitality community for the last 30 years,” said Aimee Brown, NOWFE Executive Director. “Honoring and celebrating wines from around the world and the food of this great city is what we live for and overcoming challenges of the last year has made us stronger as a community. We look forward to hosting another great event and supporting our hospitality industry for another 30 years.”

Tickets to NOWFE’s wine dinner series, Vinola, Labs and Experiences, Tournament of Rosés, and Burlesque, Bubbly & Brunch will go on sale after Mardi Gras. In addition, the recipient of the Ella Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award and details for the Gala event will be announced at that time.

NOWFE has committed to two beneficiaries for the 2022 event— the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI) and Café Reconcile. Over NOWFE’s 30-year history, the organization has donated more than $1.5 Million to local non-profit organizations.

For more information or to purchase tickets visit nowfe.com.

Named USA Today’s 10Best for Best General Food Festival, and Best Wine Festival, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience has showcased the culinary excellence in our community for 30 years alongside national and international wines at wine dinners in many of the city’s finest restaurants; at VINOLA, a premium tasting event; at dozens of culinary labs and experiences; and ultimately at the Grand Tastings. NOWFE is a non-profit organization with proceeds going to causes that support culinary education. It has raised more than $1.5 million for local non-profit organizations. www.nowfe.com.