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San Francisco's New "Zinfandel Experience": A Fresh Face for 2014

When: January 23-25, 2014

Locations: The "Presidio" & "Four Seasons Hotel" in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO, CA—Zinfandel fans take note. For many years, one of my favorite annual wine events has been San Francisco's Zinfandel Festival. But with maturity often comes insight, introspection, and the dreaded "C" word—CHANGE. And so this year, 2014, the classic food and wine spectacular will don a fresh face. Say goodbye to the old Zinfandel "Festival" and hello to the new Zinfandel "Experience".

LOCATION, LOCATION. THE NEW ADDRESS The setting of a major wine event should certainly be as memorable and inspiring as the wines to be served. Hence, American's ultimate celebration of all things Zinfandel now has a new format and new locations. Rather than staging the festive tastings within crowded, cavernous, and sometimes chilly, warehouse venues as in previous years, participants will now enjoy the multiple "Experience" events within historic buildings and backdrops of the incomparable Presidio, which overlooks San Francisco Bay, and the venerable Four Seasons Hotel. Thus, granting the recast "Experience" a measure of newfound elegance.

“The new format offers four events over three days that highlight vineyard character, winemaking techniques and historic connections that celebrate Zinfandel’s native taste and value, all nuanced with winemaker personalities and family traditions,” so says Mark Vernon, President of Ridge Vineyards and ZAP President.

THE "GRAND TASTING" TRANSFORMATION However, I've heard that perhaps the biggest change occurs on Saturday to what was formerly known as the "Grand Tasting" (my favorite event) which has now been divided into three unique "tracks" housed in three separate buildings at the Presidio. Get this: Each session will be limited to 350 people—far less than the former Zinfandel Festival. The result is expected to be less crowds, no more long lines to taste, and reduced noise. The new "more intimate" format will allow for more time to visit, make discoveries, and linger at your favorite winery. Overall, I'd say participants can expect a much more enjoyable event. I like the sound of this.

GETTING IN ON IT... Now here's the bad news for those procrastinators out there:

Thursday Jan. 23, 2014 Epicuria Food & Zin Parings - SOLD OUT Presidio Golden Gate Club, San Francisco, CA

Friday Jan. 24, 2014 Flights! Forums of Flavors - SOLD OUT Four Seasons Hotel, San Francisco

Friday Jan. 24, 2014 Winemaker Dinner & Auction - SOLD OUT Four Seasons Hotel, San Francisco

OUCH!!!

But here's the good news:

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014 This Saturday's Zinfandel Experience "Tasting Tracks" at the Presidio, San Francisco, still has tickets available. Yea! (You better act fast.)

"Create your own itinerary to explore and sample. Select among three distinct and informative tracks that will take you on an in-depth and intimate Zinfandel tasting experience or participate in all three. Zinfandel enthusiasts will have ample opportunity to informally visit and taste with winemakers. Between sessions, visit the gourmet food trucks and enjoy the beautiful lawns and historic sites at the Presidio. You can even take home some of your favorite wines from the new ZAP General Store. Stroll at your own pace or take a complimentary shuttle. Visitors enjoy free parking. Sessions begin at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Tickets are limited."

LOCATION: All three Tasting Track programs are held at The Presidio, 50 Moraga Avenue, San Francisco, CA

Track 1: Sensory Tasting Track 2: Reserve & Barrel Tasting Track 3: Terroir Tasting

Check it out: http://www.zinfandel.org/default.asp?cid=1&n1=2&n2=1242

Last year you'll recall I highly recommended this event. I even told many of you to plan ahead. Well, planning ahead sometimes isn't easy. So get in on this now while you still can and have fun. You'll taste some inspiring Zinfandel at this event. There is simply no better way to immerse yourself in America's Heritage wine. Yes, you can quote me on that. Have fun wine lovers!

—Tom Silberkleit, "California Wine Travel Insider" Publisher of The California Directory of Fine Wineries "Look for our new ebooks for Kindle, iPad, & all other devices"

ABOUT ZAP - The organization that puts on this annual event. The Association of Zinfandel Advocates & Producers is a 501(c) (3) non-profit, educational organization. ZAP is dedicated to advancing public knowledge of and appreciation for American Zinfandel and its unique place in our culture and history. Winegrowers, winemakers and wine enthusiasts combine to form the membership. The common focus is the preservation and recognition of Zinfandel as America’s heritage wine. Learn more at http://www.zinfandel.org/.

To learn more about the all new Zinfandel Experience and order tickets, please visit http://www.zinfandel.org/experience or call 530-274-4900.

MILESTONE: "Fine Wineries" Book Hits #1 Amazon Best Seller in 2013!

SONOMA, CA—In November of 2013, our national distributor phoned early in the morning with some exciting news. "Congratulations... Have you checked Amazon this week?"

We were thrilled to learn that The California Directory of Fine Wineries was listed as the "#1 Best Seller" in the catogory of "Santa Barbara California Travel Books.

Our sincere thanks go out to our loyal readers throughout the USA (and beyond) who look to this popular series for winery recommendations and travel guidance.

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KSRO Newstalk 1350 "Wine Wednesday" Interview

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SANTA ROSA, CA—On Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2013 “California Wine Travel Insider” Tom Silberkeit was the in-studio guest on KSRO Newstalk 1350. This popular segment called “Wine Wednesday” with Steve Jaxon and Tom Simoneau, is heard throughout Sonoma County and the San Francisco Bay Area.

This segment features Silberkleit telling listeners about The California Directory of Fine Wineries, 6th Edition for Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino.

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SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA— (A GREAT INTERVIEW)... LISTEN LIVE as it happened on Nov. 12, 2013 when "California Wine Travel Insider" Tom Silberkleit was the in-studio guest on the THE KRUSH 92.5 FM.

Acclaimed "Cork Dork" host Adam Montiel grills him medium rare to get the big scoop on Silberkleit's new line of fully interactive e-books.

Based on the best-selling wine travel series The California Directory of Fine Wineries, the e-books work flawlessly on iPad, Kindle, Android, and all other handheld devices.

AMAZON LINKS TO THE NEW E-BOOKS:

http://amzn.to/1flYdwe

http://amzn.to/J8E9Sy

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Harvest Time at Talley Vineyards

ARROYO GRANDE, CA—I just returned from another wine tasting binge in San Luis Obispo County. It's nearing the end of harvest time and there was still lots of activity in the vineyards.

One of the thing that makes Talley Vineyards a special place to visit is their park-like tasting room and extensive gift shop. Their wines are very popular, diverse, and provide a well-rounded showcase of what the region does so very well.

Being a total tasting manic I tried EVERYTHING on the list... Yea!

Here's what I sampled from both their current tasting menus—

Core Flight: $8 per person for their five most popular wines

2012 Bishop's Peak Chardonnay Oliver's Vineyard, Edna Valley ($16/bottle) ($12.80 members)

2011 Talley Vineyards Estate Chardonnay Arroyo Grande Valley ($27/bottle) ($21.60 members)

2012 Bishop's Peak Pinot Noir San Luis Obispo County ($20/bottle) ($16 members)

2011 Talley Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir Arroyo Grande Valley ($36/bottle) ($28.80 members)

2011 Bishop's Peak Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles ($20/bottle) ($16 members)

Distinctive Flight: $15 per person for five of their distinctive wines

2011 Oliver's Vineyard Chardonnay ($36/bottle) ($28.80 members)

2011 Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay Arroyo Grande Valley ($44/bottle) ($35.20 members)

2011 Rosemary's Vineyard Chardonnay Arroyo Grande Valley ($48/bottle) ($38.40 members)

2011 Rincon Vineyard Pinot Noir √ Arroyo Grande Valley ($60/bottle) ($48 members)

2011 Rosemary's Vineyard Pinot Noir √ Arroyo Grande Valley ($70/bottle) ($56.00 members) "This Pinot Noir will age to velvet."

Lots of nice, well-priced wines on the Core Flight menu... Wine with more complexity can be sampled on their Distinctive Flight menu. My favorites of the day: The two Pinot Noir wines with the √... Of course, wine club members will greatly benefit from the discounted pricing. :-).

The hospitality at this tasting room is excellent. I've been there several times and have always found those folks working here to be top-notch.

What do you think about this "growler"?! It's one of the things that they specialize in these days. A growler is 2 1/2 bottles... I'm coming back to pick up several for my next BBQ party. The initial fill up is $35... Each refill is just $28. Once filled the contents should be enjoyed within 2 weeks. After opening, I'd say finish your wine within 3-5 days for best results.

The Talley Vineyards tasting room is only about 15 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo. The next time you're visiting the area be sure to add this lovely spot to your must-see list. Highly recommended!

—TS

This Week’s California Wine Country “Guest Blogger”

STEFAN MÜHLE, GENERAL MANAGER, THE CASA MADRONA HOTEL & SPA REGION: Sausalito, CA

A note from the Publisher: When traveling throughout California Wine Country, I must tell you that I don't exclusively scout "destination" wineries for The California Directory of Fine Wineries. I also explore and recommend local hotels and resorts—clean and comfortable places at which I would stay myself.

My mission is quite simply to help do the legwork for visitors looking for extraordinary accommodations and memorable tasting rooms. This week's guest blogger is the historic Casa Madrona Hotel in Marin County, USA. This beautiful property, with spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, has always proved itself to be exceptional. It's location is ideal for many who wish to split their time between exploring downtown Sausalito, the city of San Francisco, and the renowned wine regions just to the north: Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino counties.

When I heard the exciting news of the hotel's dramatic renovation, I invited General Manager Stefan Mühle to share the details with followers of our wine country blog. Thank you Stefan for describing to us what is to come this winter.

—Tom Silberkleit, Publisher The California Directory of Fine Wineries

Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa Debuts New Mansion, Hillside Cottages and Event Space For Winter 2013

Sausalito, CA—Nestled hillside in Northern California’s beautiful Sausalito, Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa is announcing the renovation of its historic mansion, upper hillside cottages, and meeting and event space set to debut this winter.

Exemplifying innovation, technology, luxury, service and style, the unveiling will showcase a number of notable highlights including the complete renovation of its historic mansion built in 1885, the restructuring and redesign of the Mansion’s 11 rooms including the new, standout 5,000-square-foot Alexandrite Suite and the 1,700 square-foot Junto meeting and event space, plus the renovation of its seven upper hillside cottages.

Built in 1885 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the former mansion was originally designed as a private residence for William Barrett, Secretary-Treasurer for the San Francisco Gas and Electric Company. The Mansion and its new offerings are currently being updated and perfected by a world-renowned design team, and will be seamlessly paired with leading, cutting-edge technology, the finest amenities, and brilliant views of the Richardson Bay and the San Francisco skyline.

The Mansion & Alexandrite Suite

The Alexandrite Suite includes 3,500 square feet of indoor living space, and 1,500 square feet of outdoor entertaining and relaxation areas all wired with the latest technology.The space is designed to create a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces with an open kitchen and dining room area that connects with an expansive outdoor patio. The gourmet kitchen is fit for a chef with exquisite appliances including a top-of-the-line range, convection oven and cappuccino machine. Ideal for entertaining, the dining room is set against a sparkling backdrop of panoramic bay views.

The Alexandrite Suite includes a master bedroom, a guest suite, and 2.5 bathrooms, plus a private office and personal fitness center. A secret door, leading to the second floor of the Mansion, has been designed to appear as a cabinet in the fitness center but is only noticeable and accessible by those staying in this suite. As a result, the two-bedroom suite can be transformed into an 11-room mansion, perfect for corporate retreats, destination weddings, and multi-generational family getaways.

Junto Event Space

Named Junto after Benjamin Franklin's diverse cooperative for mutual improvement, Casa Madrona’s new event space is designed to foster innovation, inspiration and collective efforts towards positive outcomes. The 1,700-square-foot boardroom and event space will showcase panoramic views of the bay and features advanced Samsung, Apple, and Control4 technology systems and equipment, including the striking 9-panel media wall, and multi-point video conferencing capabilities.

Upper Hillside Cottages

Located on a pathway near the Mansion are seven upper hillside cottages that have been redesigned with new interiors featuring king beds, spacious rooms, hardwood floors and some with full kitchens and spectacular bay and city views. Similar to the Mansion guestrooms, the decor and color palettes will feature a hybrid of authentic historic touches paired with a clean and contemporary design.

The Mansion at Casa Madrona, Junto event space and the upper hillside cottages will be complete in winter 2013. For more information, please call 415.332.0502 or visit www.casamadrona.com.

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A Perfect Napa Valley Tasting

NAPA VALLEY, CA—This morning Napa Valley was simply brilliant. The harvest is in full swing and autumn's tempered sunlight gives the region the slight perception that you've walked into a painted canvas.

When in Napa, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. No region in California can do a Cab like Napa. Today's destination, Pine Ridge Vineyards, is located on a viticulturally charmed stretch of the Silverado Trail in the southern part the valley.

Our readers may have figured out that my entire editorial staff, myself included, has a particular fondness for this tasting room. Pine Ridge has the distinction of owning twelve estate vineyards, totaling two hundred acres, in five of Napa Valley's celebrated appellations, including forty-seven acres in the coveted Stags Leap District.

The other appellations are Carneros, Howell Mountain, Oakville, and Rutherford. Where many wineries must rely on purchased fruit to build complexity into their Napa Valley-designated Cabernet Sauvignon, Pine Ridge has the luxury of selecting from a broad range of estate vineyards located throughout the valley.

The grounds here are charming. The driveway passes between lawns and picket gardens offering seating with views of the estate's Stags Leap District vineyard.

MY "APPELLATION TASTING" - October 1, 2013 Cost: $40 - (5 elegant wines) - Tasting Room Associate: Jackie

This was one of my favorite tastings in recent memory. Primarily because everything thrilled me... Here's what was being offered on their "appellation" tasting menu today:

2011 Le Petit Clos Chardonnay: This is the only 100% true Stags Leap Chardonnay produced. Absolutely delicious. Rich, full body, round palate... Yellow peach, baked golden apple, florals... an elegant finish. Perfect for special occasion. Retail: $65 (wine club $52).

2009 Oakville Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: This is what Napa does best. 96% Cabernet with a touch of Malbec and Merlot. Baked black plum on the nose with a hint of rich blackberry pie. Long and lingering... Oh, man... Now that's what I'm talking about. Loved it... Retail: $80 (wine club $64.00).

2010 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon: This is 100% Cabernet, baby! An intense ruby-black wine. Ripe black plum, fresh cassis, cracked white pepper... I liked it even better than the Oakville Cabernet mentioned above. Wow! An absolutely enchanting wine. Retail: $90 (wine club $72).

2010 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon: 99% Cabernet with 1% Malbec. I found blackcurrant flavors here. Oh, yeah! Velvety tannins and a graceful finish. Softer to my taste that the above reds -- ultra-lush and perfectly pleasing. Retail: $85 (wine club $68).

2009 FORTIS Cabernet Sauvignon: Another 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Intense nose of black mission fig. Aromas of French vanilla. A gorgeous and complex wine. Rich and full-bodied. Loved the smooth and lasting finish. Retail: $150 (wine club $120).

Plus, today they served a BONUS WINE from their "Signature" tasting menu:

2009 Rutherford Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: 75% Cabernet; 13% Malbec; 4% Merlot; 7% Petit Verdot; 1% Cab Franc. This wine had earned 91 points from Robert Parker "The Wine Advocate". Medium body -- simply fantastic!

Of course, tasting menus can change without notice as wines sell out. This current menu was memorable indeed... No visit to this very fine "destination" winery would be complete without checking out their barrel room.

Through a glass wall fitted with transparent doors you can see into this softly lit gallery where wine quietly ages.

To sum it up... I loved everything on today's Appellation Tasting menu. As listed in our Northern California book, they have various other tasting options... Pine Ridge Vineyards is highly recommended!!!

—TS

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SANTA ROSA, CA—On Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2013 from 5-6 p.m. (PST), “California Wine Travel Insider” Tom Silberkeit was the in-studio guest on KSRO Newstalk 1350. This popular segment called “Wine Wednesday” with Steve Jaxon and Tom Simoneau, is heard throughout Sonoma County and the San Francisco Bay Area.

This short clip features Silberkleit telling listeners about a favorite California winery in Sonoma County's famous Dry Creek Valley: Dutcher Crossing Winery.

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SANTA ROSA, CA—Last Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2013 from 5-6 p.m. (PST), "California Wine Travel Insider" Tom Silberkeit was the in-studio guest on KSRO Newstalk 1350. This popular segment called "Wine Wednesday" with Steve Jaxon and Tom Simoneau, is heard throughout Sonoma County and the San Francisco Bay Area.

This short clip features Silberkleit telling listeners about the upcoming Sunset SAVOR The Central Coast event held at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch, near San Luis Obispo California, from Sept. 26-29, 2013.

Tasting Room Trends - 8.9.13 episode - Show #211

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Program Synopsis: Originally broadcast on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2013, Grape Encounters radio host David Wilson and "California Wine Travel Insider" Tom Silberkleit talk about trends in winery tasting rooms.

-Napa Valley Winery Recommendations: Swanson Vineyards, Ehler's Estate

Grape Encounters is a leading wine travel program heard on-line and on radio stations across the USA. Host David Wilson brings a quick wit and lighthearted fun to the world of wine. Tom Silberkleit is the publisher of The California Directory of Fine Wineries book series.

Where to hear the Grape Encounters Program:

KFWB 980 AM, Los Angeles, CA KNWZ 94.3 FM, Palm Springs, CA KNWQ 1140 AM, Palm Springs, CA KNWH 1250 AM, Yucca Valley, CA KNWZ 970 AM, Palm Springs, CA KUHL 1440 AM, Santa Maria, CA WCEM 1240 AM, Cambridge, MD WGNC 1450 AM, Gastonia-Charlotte, NC WFEB 1340 AM, Sylacauga, AL WEMJ 1490 AM, Laconia-Concord, NH KKAL 99.7 FM, San Luis Obispo, CA KGY 1240 AM, Olympia/Seattle, WA KNZR 1560 AM & 97.7 FM, Bakersfield CA KNEW 960 AM, San Francisco, CA, KFQD 750 AM & 103.7 FM, Anchorage, AK.

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Program Synopsis: Originally broadcast on Saturday, July 13, 2013, Grape Encounters radio host David Wilson and California Wine Travel Insider Tom Silberkleit offer suggestions to a listener from Michigan who is planning his honeymoon in Napa Valley.

-Napa Valley Hotel & Spa recommendation: Villagio Inn & Spa. -Napa Valley Winery Recommendations: Mumm Napa, Domaine Carneros

Where to hear the Grape Encounters Program:

KFWB 980 AM, Los Angeles, CA

KNWZ 94.3 FM, Palm Springs, CA

KNWQ 1140 AM, Palm Springs, CA

KNWH 1250 AM, Yucca Valley, CA

KNWZ 970 AM, Palm Springs, CA

KUHL 1440 AM, Santa Maria, CA

WCEM 1240 AM, Cambridge, MD

WGNC 1450 AM, Gastonia-Charlotte, NC

WFEB 1340 AM, Sylacauga, AL

WEMJ 1490 AM, Laconia-Concord, NH

KKAL 99.7 FM, San Luis Obispo, CA

KGY 1240 AM, Olympia/Seattle, WA

KNZR 1560 AM & 97.7 FM, Bakersfield CA

KNEW 960 AM, San Francisco, CA

KFQD 750 AM & 103.7 FM, Anchorage, AK

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Santa Barbara Seasons: "Cool Reads for Hot Days"

Thank you writer Chelsea Joy and the editors of Santa Barbara Seasons for their recommendation of our latest book in their summer 2013 issue!

"Grab the new edition of The California Directory of Fine Wineries, the Central Coast Edition, before heading out on a wine tour. This guide allows for a seamless navigation through the wineries and vineyards in the area..."

—Santa Barbara Seasons

The Cork Dorks took the show to the Russian River Valley and meet folks from Gamba, Benovia, Burt Street Cellars, Ranch San Miguel, Dutton-Goldfield. Accommodations from DeLoach Vineyard (Boisset Wine Family). First show recorded at iconic Farmhouse Inn featuring numerous RRV winemakers as well as the owners of The Farmhouse Inn. Second show features DeLoach from their estate.

"Adam and Jeremy are such great guys. I've had the pleasure to visit with them on and off-the-air. They are good people who, like me, seek out good wine!"

--Tom Silberkleit

#SoundCloud #Cork Dorks #Radio Show #adam #montiel #jeremy

This Week’s California Wine Country “Guest Blogger”

KIM WYKOFF, DIRECTOR OF ROOMS & MARKETING, APPLE FARM INN REGION: San Luis Obispo, CA

A note from the Publisher: I have always loved to visit the Apple Farm Inn and find it to be a charming oasis in the center of the state. I've made it a frequent stop while driving up and down the back roads of California Wine Country. Their old-world decor appeals to me as does their extensive gift shop, restaurant, bakery, and lush grounds. Visiting this lovely Central Coast hotel really feels like a vacation. Outside, planters, flower pots and hanging baskets beckon you to unwind and relax. In reading Kim's post below, I checked out their special room offer that she mentions at the bottom—"Backyard Winemaker Dinner Room Package for a two night stay". It turns out to be a very good deal as this is California's high season. The package includes: a two night stay, two tickets to their four-course winemaker dinner, a daily guest wine tasting reception, two wine tasting passes per person for local wineries, and a $10 off coupon for any massage treatment at their Spa during your stay. I understand the cost to be $429 plus tax (and a $4 facility fee per night). Sounded like a pretty good offer at one of the Central Coast's most delightful hotels. If you've been there, then you know what I mean. In any case, my readers know how picky I am about hotels, tasting rooms, etc... And in this particular case, half of the fun is the chance to meet wine industry legend Gary Eberle. Am I right?!

—Tom Silberkleit, Publisher The California Directory of Fine Wineries

Apple Farm Inn To Host Eberle Winery For Backyard Winemaker Dinner July 12

Nestled in the heart of San Luis Obispo Wine Country is the Apple Farm Inn. With 104 individually decorated rooms, all with fireplaces, this luxury property meets every need of the traveler. We have a full service restaurant, remarkable gift shop and popular massage therapy center.

Many wine lovers choose to stay with us as we are just a short drive from the renowned wine regions of Edna Valley to the south and Paso Robles to the north. While staying at the Apple Farm Inn be sure to partake in our signature Backyard Winemaker Dinner Series where each month we feature the Farm to Table cuisine of Chef Steven Smeets and Chef Stephen Walls plus the delicious wines of a local winery.

For our Friday July 12, 2013 Backyard Winemaker Dinner we are proud to host Eberle Winery from Paso Robles. Gary and Marcy Eberle will be on hand for the evening to meet and greet their fans and followers. Guests will dine outside on our romantic restaurant patio with the sounds of soft acoustic music while sipping delightful Eberle wines and savoring some delectable farm to table cuisine. The night's menu will certainly tempt you:

Appetizer: Honey-Lope, Crispy Prosciutto. Paired with Apple Farm Champagne.

First Course: Roasted Nectarine Salad: Brazil Nuts, Arugula, Manchego Cheese, Honey Lime Dressing. Paired with a 2012 Eberle Chardonnay.

Second Course: Haloumi Brulee: Apricot Jalapeño Jam. Paired with a 2011 Eberle Syrah Rose.

Third Course: Stuffed Calamari: Wild Shrimp, Garlic, Herbs, Pomodoro Sauce. Paired with 2009 Eberle Zinfandel.

Fourth Course: Duck Coq a Vin: Market Vegetables, Baby Yukon Golds. Paired with 2008 Eberle Cotes de Robles Rouge.

Dessert: Trio of Goodness.

The cost is $65 per person (excluding tax and tip). Please join us to make new friends or catch up with old ones. Whichever it may be, the memories will be long lasting from your experience at this upcoming Apple Farm's Backyard Winemakers Dinner.

Why not purchase an overnight stay and make a weekend of your visit? Experience firsthand our world class amenities and friendly staff... We are also offering a special "Backyard Winemaker Dinner Package" for a two night stay. Hospitality is a way of life here. It is our wish, that should you arrive a stranger, you will depart a friend who desires to return soon!

Kim Wykoff is Director of Rooms & Marketing at Apple Farm Inn in San Luis Obispo. Space at the event is limited. Call (800) 255-2040 ext. 637 to make your reservation.

Last Minute Wine Events—from L.A. to San Luis Obispo

Barrels in Mission Plaza

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA— On Thursday June 20, 2013 from 4:30-7:30 p.m as part of the annual Roll Out The Barrels festival, wine lovers are invited to come to Luis Obispo’s historic downtown Mission Plaza and taste local vintages paired with local foods.

According to their website: Early Entry VIP ticketholders will be able to sample reserve wines during the first hour beginning at 4:30 pm, with general admission ticketholders attending from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Wineries will partner with local chefs side-by-side offering a blissful sampling of specialty cuisine with an array of fine wines. Guests will rock out with the Mighty Croon Dogs.

Tickets are $50 for VIP Early Entry and $40 for General Admission. I assume that tickets are still available but I don't know for sure as I was unable to reach anyone at the event office. But you can easily find out with credit card in hand when you go on-line.

Allow me to recommend that you seek out the following San Luis Obispo area producers who will be pouring at the event: Stephen Ross, Laetitia Vineyard & Winery, Talley Vineyards, Chamisal Vineyards, Saucelito Canyon Vineyard.

The Rhone Rangers Riding Are Into Town! American-grown Rhone wines In Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, CA—Coming up on Sunday, June 23, 2013, over 40 wineries will be pouring their way into the hearts of Los Angeles wine tasters. The events include a seminar, lunch with the winemakers and a walk-around tasting reception. I Recently attended their San Francisco event and really enjoyed it. There's some killer wine here folks. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the next big thing!

Here are details directly from the Rhone Rangers website:

GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS, SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 3 - 6 PM. This event takes place at Vibiana, an historic site located in the vibrant downtown area of Los Angeles at 214 South Main Street, near the LA Times Building. The General Admission Ticket provides entry to the consumer walk-around tasting from 3 - 6 PM. Taste from over 200 wines poured by more than 40 wineries. Food trucks in the courtyard will provide tasty treats for purchase to complement our wines. Bid on wine and wine-related items at the silent auction; proceeds from the auction will benefit the Rhone Rangers Scholarship Fund. This event ends at 6 PM (last pour at 5:45 PM). BUY TICKETS $45 (advance) $50 at the door. *SEMINAR: "RARE WINES, COME TASTE THE UNUSUAL." SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 10 AM, Hilton Doubletree, 120 South Los Angeles St, Los Angeles. Moderated by Shelby Ledgerwood, CWE, Founder, Savant Wines. This seminar will feature 6 wines, including Marsanne (Qupé), Roussanne (Stolpman), Grenache Blanc (Jaffurs), Counoise (Tablas Creek), Cinsault (Michael-David) and Carignane (Ridge). These grape varieties are rarely found as single variety wines in the US, so this is a great opportunity to get to taste them! To attend this seminar you must purchase a VIP Pass, which includes a ticket for the seminar, lunch with the winemakers, and early entry to the walk-around tasting along with trade & media. (*Note: These tickets often sell out early -TS) VIP PASS INCLUDES A SEMINAR AT 10 AM, LUNCH WITH THE WINEMAKERS FROM 12 NOON - 1 PM, PLUS THE WALK-AROUND TASTING, SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 1 - 3 PM. Just 50 "VIP PASS" tickets are available. VIP PASS ticketholders begin the day with an educational wine-tasting seminar from 10 AM - 11:30 AM at The Hilton Doubletree (120 South Los Angeles St, Los Angeles). After the seminar join us down the street at Vibiana (214 South Main St, Los Angeles) for an informal al fresco lunch in the courtyard with the winemakers from 12 noon - 1 PM. VIP Pass attendees will receive complimentary coupons for food for lunch from the food trucks. Winemakers will share their wines with you while you dine and you'll have ample opportunity to talk, taste, move around and hang out with your favorite winemakers before going indoors at Vibiana for the walk-around tasting event, which begins at 1 PM. Sample from over 200 wines from more than 40 wineries. Bid on wine and wine-related items at the silent auction; proceeds from the auction will benefit the Rhone Rangers Scholarship Fund. The VIP walk-around tasting ends at 3 PM, but you are welcome to stay a little longer for the Consumer General Admission Tasting which ends at 6 PM (last pour is 5:45 PM). BUY TICKETS $95.

If you go, don't miss the following who will be in L.A. pouring their best: Andrew Murray Vineyards, Calcareous, Cass Winery, Halter Ranch, Pomar Junction, Qupé, Tablas Creek, Tercero Wines, Treana and Hope Family, Vina Robles and Zaca Mesa Winery.

Enjoy! Have fun! Be safe! —TS.

The Hot Ticket On The California Central Coast

PASO ROBLES, CA—This season the hottest thing in Paso Robles isn’t the summer heat. It’s the brand new Vina Robles Amphitheatre (at the picturesque Vina Robles Winery) now hosting its first concert season! The 3,300-person venue doesn’t have a bad seat in the house as its seating options range from general admission on the lawn to VIP boxes all within 150 feet of the stage. The 2013 season includes performances by ZZ Top, Tony Bennett, Ziggy Marley, and much more!

Paso Robles is such a relaxed place to visit and the new amphitheatre should be an awesome place to see a show. Also, I've heard that there's soon-to-be a new on-site bar and restaurant at the winery. I'll have more details soon and will update this post. What I do know is that it will showcase locally grown, fresh produce and a "seasonally inspired" 3-course meal that pairs well with their estate wines. (Love their wines.)

Dinner and show is the way to go... Online reservations and sample menus are coming soon. Here's the "dining" link. Stay tuned...

—TS

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PASO ROBLES, CA–Hear popular radio personalities from THE KRUSH 92.5 "The Cork Dorks" (Adam Montiel and Jeremy West) Broadcasting LIVE from downtown City Park on May 18, 2013 during The 31st Annual Paso Robles Wine Festival.

First up: The guys from Hope Family Wines: J.C. (Winemaker) & Joel Peterson. Topic: Wines On Tap. 400 glasses in a keg of wine. Every glass tastes perfect. Good idea...

Second up: Editor & Publisher for Wine House Press Tom Silberkleit talks about his career and The California Directory of Fine Wineries, Central Coast (new 2nd Edition).

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The California Directory of Fine Wineries