Napa, Sonoma, And More Tastings – Oh my!
Our quest continues, and our trip is definitely exceeding our expectations.
For many years we have received emails from our favorite wineries inviting us to attend various events. Everything you can imagine from a launch of a new varietal to harvest parties, etc. We always dreamed of being able to participate, but not living in the area did not permit us to partake.
Since we are here for a month, we were lucky to have our friends include us in the Petroni harvest party. You can read more about this in my last post. It was over the top and fabulous!
And, as mentioned before, we LOVE Chappellet wines, and they hosted their Grower Collection Inaugural Release Party on October 19th at Catarina Gardens in Sonoma.
We were able to bring our friends J & J, and it was spectacular. We arrived at this beautiful venue hosted at the Sangiacomo Winery. The Chappellets have been in partnership with this family for many years, and they launched some incredible Chardonnay and Pinot Noirs.
https://www.sangiacomo-vineyards.com
There was a long table set for 60 guests, and we were fortunate to be seated across from Chappellet’s winemaker, Phillip Titus and next to Steve Sangiacomo. What a treat to hear firsthand how they curate their wines each year and produce some of the best we have ever tasted.
Not only was this a release of their new Grower Collection, but the meal was also paired to enhance the wines with each course. It was a lively group of wine lovers and enjoyed by all. What a special evening!
We also visited Ma(i)sonry and RH (Restoration Hardware) in Yountville. We have been to Ma(i)sonry in the past and enjoyed the concept. We loved the atmosphere in the newly designed courtyard with crystal chandeliers and comfy sofas. The area is designed to create “outdoor living rooms.” Ma(i)sonry is known for featuring small production, boutique wineries. They have converted the main historical building to a two-story wine vault with a varied selection of exclusive wines. They also have a wonderful barista bar, where you can order from a selection of expressos or cappuccinos.
After our tasting, we purchased a bottle Blackbird 2016 Arise Proprietary Wine to enjoy in the RH dining room. RH has created a unique space offering a total “experience” featuring their gorgeous furniture. They describe their experience as An Integration of Food, Wine, Art, and Design. RH typically chooses historically relevant locations; and creates their design vignettes throughout the space. Also, they offer lovely dining in a gorgeous area. The location in the Gold Coast in Chicago is exceptional, and I am planning to visit the RH in Palm Beach shortly.
Also, on our “must do” list was a trip to Auberge du Soleil for lunch with a view. And, what a view it is. Every time we visit the area, we just must have lunch here. The service is impeccable, food and wine selection are fabulous and the views are BEYOND!
https://aubergedusoleil.aubergeresorts.com/dining/
Recently, we also decided to venture to Sonoma to visit Iron Horse. They now offer a special tasting under the palms. The sparkling wines are so delicious, and the full flight of wines was incredible. It was gorgeous to overlook the property with Mt. St. Helena in the background. They also offered some lovely nibbles to accompany the selection of wines.
http://www.ironhorsevineyards.com
Then, on to a unique tasting with J. Cage. Our friend was familiar with their delicious Pinot Noirs, and we met the proprietors at a wonderful tapas restaurant called Bravas Bar de Tapas in Healdsburg. We sat outside and enjoyed a selection of tapas that paired well with the wines that we tasted. Our hosts then took us a couple of doors down to Journeyman Meat Co. What an incredible place. The selection of salumi and condiments (you know I LOVE good mustard or spread for my famous platters). The family behind Journeyman is the Seghesio family. Coincidentally, the family traveled to Italy to study under the renowned butcher, Dario Cecchini, who we met both in Italy and at a dinner he hosted in Fort Lauderdale. It really is a small world.
Next post will feature our visit to Elizabeth Spencer Winery, Madrigal Family Winery, Sabina Vineyards, Pride Mountain Vineyards (one of our all-time favorites), Solbar and our special dinner here at our home away from home “Chez Allison.”
For J & J’s last night and we just wanted to spend this time with our dear friends in our special place. Looking forward to a “revisit” next year.
My name is Kim and my passion is surrounding myself, family, and friends in a life of luxury. Each week, I’ll share with you new tips and recipes to create a luxurious life .