Winery Buzz
Sometimes, like a needle in a haystack, the best wine producers are simply too small to find. Such was the case for winemakers who joined together to form Silenus Vintners, who began producing remarkable wines in 1988, crafting elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnays (which are continually showered with high ratings by wine whiz, Robert Parker Jr., if you care about that sort of thing). White-hot winemakers, James Hall and Heather Patz, were inspired by the classic Burgundian model of hands-on control for small vineyard sites and barrel by barrel winemaking. Now in their 15th year, this “insiders” winery is highly prized by savvy wine enthusiasts for their rich, complex wines created from low-yielding, cool-climate vineyards located in a variety of appellations including Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino and Monterey. Due to small lots, Patz & Hall wines have always been difficult to get one’s hands on, but such is no longer the case since James and Heather recently christened their first tasting room in an intimate section just south of Napa. Located at 851 Napa Valley Corporate Way, Suite A, it’s really easy to find them, especially if you are coming in from San Francisco or Sacramento, then again, you can always drop by on your way home. Either way, you just found the needle. www.patzhall.com; 1-877-265-6700. FYI: If you are a dedicated wine collector, Patz & Hall has a select wine club, with spectacular access to their exclusive wines, including the in-demand “Library” wines. Lots are limited, subscribe soon.
Best Bet
One the most popular gatherings of the Napa Valley Mustard Festival is The Marketplace – A Signature Event for Connoisseurs. This year’s event is scheduled for the weekend of March 15th and 16th, and celebrates the season with a palette of mustards from around the world, delicious foods and, naturally, some of the world’s best wines. Marketplace provides wine and food lovers the opportunity to explore the best of Napa Valley during the most beautiful time of year in wine country. For tickets, call (707) 938-1133 or visit www.mustardfestival.org. 
Hot Tickets
“Real Wine Country” continues its annual spring celebration of premium wine tasting during Savor Sonoma Valley – A Barrel Tasting & Culinary Experience. Now in its 18th year, the March 15th and 16th shindig stars more than 15 boutique wineries with each showcasing 2007 vintage wines straight from the barrel. Sample new releases and award-winning wines paired perfectly with delicious culinary creations prepared by talented local chefs and restaurants. Meet winemakers, mingle with wine lovers behind-the-scenes, peruse art from local artists, and enjoy live music. Tickets are only $55 per person for a Weekend Pass which are limited, so reserve your glass today; 1-866- 794-9463; www.heartofsonomavalley.com.
Cool School
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at a world class winery? On Sunday, March 23rd, visitors to the Napa Valley will have an opportunity to see first hand what goes on “inside” St. Supéry’s cellar. Your tour includes an onsite wine educator who will take you through the entire winemaking process from crushing to bottling. Afterwards, your excursion ends with a barrel tasting of estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. If you are looking for a new twist on wine tasting, this is your destination. Cost for going “behind-the-scenes” is $25 per guest and reservations are required. To participate, call 1-800-942-0809 or visit www.stsupery.com.
Great Getaway
More than 90 wineries will host an array of special events throughout Paso Robles Wine Country, during Zinfandel Festival. On the weekend of March 14th, Zin producers and enthusiasts come together for a three-day discovery of wine, food and celebration of California’s heritage variety. The festival is comprised of three primary events: Saturday Marquee, Live Auction and the Zinfandel Grand Tasting with silent auction. Requisite winemaker dinners, food pairings, seminars, open houses and special tastings are but a few of the activities planned for the weekend. Portions of the proceeds from the activities will be donated to causes benefiting health and education for the vineyard worker population in the local community. Zinfandel Festival sold out last year so advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. Ticket packages begin at only $60 per person. For more information, visit www.pasowine.com or call 1-800-549-9463. 
On The Radar
• Indulge on delicious, award-winning wines while participating in special festivities conducted at several Silverado Trail wineries during the semiannual Silver Pass Weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, March 29th and 30th, journey on “the road less traveled” and discover fourteen of Napa Valley’s most treasured wineries. Consisting of both large and boutique producers, visitors have the opportunity to sample current release tastings along with barrel tastings, food pairings, library releases, and special discounts. World-class hospitality makes this popular food and wine event all the better. $30 per person all weekend or $20 for Sunday only. To participate, simply head to any Silver Pass winery on the Trail. For a complete list of participating wineries, visit www.silveradotrail.com.
• View the season’s beauty captured by photographers from far and wide at Mumm Napa Photo Finish. The inevitably sold out and wildly exuberant Napa Valley Mustard Festival grand finale will be held at Mumm Cuvée Napa in Rutherford on Saturday, March 29th, at 7 p.m. Sample delectable offerings of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and wine; enjoy jazz and classical music throughout the winery and gather in the gallery to compare and contrast, compliment, and thoroughly delight in the multitude of entries of the ever-popular photography contest. To attend, call (707) 944-1133 or visit www.mustardfestival.com.