Big Deal
The annual Russian River Wine Road Barrel Tasting Weekend has become so sought-after that for the first time in its 29-year history, the event has been extended to two weekends, March 2-4 and March 9-11. Encompassing three of Sonoma County’s best grape-growing regions: Russian River, Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley, this year’s soirée promises to be the biggest wine tasting event ever! With over 100 wineries opening their cellar, wine lovers have the opportunity to sample wines directly from the barrel, and in many cases you will be able to purchase futures if you like what you’re tasting. Purchase futures now, usually at a great discount, then come back to the winery 12 to 18 months later when the wine is bottled and ready for release. Often these wines are so limited that the only way to get them is by purchasing futures. No tickets are required, simply purchase a glass and wristband for $10 at the first winery you visit (each weekend). Go to www.wineroad.com for a complete list of participating wineries; 1-800-723-6336.
Jazz Junkies
Jazz and wine lovers, say adieu to winter by attending the tasty "Mustard, Mud & Music" festival. Held at various venues in the charming community of Calistoga, this fun fete is a popular annual happening with a cool variety of jazz sounds, delicious tastings of local wines and the opportunity to meander around town browsing the quaint shops, restaurants, and spas of this famed hot springs whistle-stop. Wine and music enthusiasts can purchase "Jazz Pacs," for the Saturday, March 10 event at a great value of only $10 per person. Call (707) 942-6333 or visit www.calistogajazz.com.
Top Tables
Chef John Ash’s last book "Cooking One-on-One" received much critical praise including a James Beard Foundation Award. If you enjoy cooking and would like to learn some new tricks, on Tuesday, March 13th, beginning at 6:30 p.m., John will prepare some of his favorites from the book. There will be a grilled rosemary scented steak served with arugula and capers called Tagliata, a delicious chicken soup with a Malaysian curry called Laska. There will also be a chance to taste a flight of Sauvignon Blanc wine from around the globe. Cost is $95 per person; 4300 Barnes Road, Santa Rosa; (707) 575-7350; www.vintnersinn.com.
Dinner and a Movie
Start your weekend with a prix fixe dinner and a glass of wine from Julia’s Kitchen for $24 per person, followed by a flick in Copia’s Theater. On Friday, March 2nd, the intimate theatre will screen Flamenco. This sensuously photographed documentary is a tribute to the beauty and diversity of Spain’s national dance. Using only the minimalist of setting of an abandoned Seville train station, little dialog, and more than 300 performers, this is a veritable feast of exciting Flamenco dances, songs, and guitar playing. On Friday, March 9, viewers will be moved by Butterfly, a sensitive portrait of an 8-year-old child’s coming of age during the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. Films are $7 per person, unless you’re a Copia member, then it’s $6. For dinner reservations, visit www.opentable.com or call (707) 265-5700. For film tickets, simply head over to the box office window.
FYI: Savor a complimentary taste of Spanish wine before each screening!
On the Radar
• Sonoma Valley continues its annual spring celebration of premium wine tasting during Savor Sonoma Valley - A Barrel Tasting & Culinary Experience. Now in its 17th year, the March 17-18 party stars over 20 wineries with each showcasing 2006 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 listen to 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.
• Awashed in rustic charm and rural solitude, there’s a gold mine of delicious wines in the historic, grape-growing appellation of Lodi. With premium producers such as Oak Ridge Vineyards, Gnarley Head Cellars and Jessie’s Grove, Lodi is the newest hot-spot for savvy wine lovers seeking exciting wines of great value. For over 25 years, this tranquil gateway to the famed "gold country" has also been home to the Lodi Spring Wine Show, now in its 27th season. "Think Pink" on Friday and Saturday, March 23-24, and celebrate world-class wines, history, and culture with over 40 boutique wineries and fine food purveyors participating. Great wines and smaller crowds makes this fun fete worth the a trip. For more information, call (209) 369-2771 or visit www.grapefestival.com.
• This year marks the fourteenth season of sensational events during the Napa Valley Mustard Festival. One the most popular programs of the entire fete is The Marketplace – A Signature Event for Connoisseurs, which occurs Saturday and Sunday, March 17 and 18. This festive gala celebrates the season with spectacular tastes of mustards from around the world, delicious foods, and some of the planet’s best wines. Marketplace provides you with the opportunity to explore the best of Napa Valley during the most beautiful time of year. For tickets, call (707) 938-1133 or visit www.mustardfestival.org.
