2007-03-23
 Stellar Sipping
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 more than 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! For details, call 1-866-794-9463 or go to www.heartofsonomavalley.com.
Gold Tasting
Awashed in rustic charm and rural solitude, there’s a gold mine of delicious wines in the historic, grape-growing appellation of Lodi. The region may not be the new Bordeaux, but these days, with premium producers such as Oak Ridge Vineyards, Gnarley Head Cellars and Jessie’s Grove, Lodi is rightfully vying to become the newest hot-spot for adventurous wine lovers. With 100,000 acres farmed by about 750 growers, Lodi leads all California wine districts in the production of the top five premium wine varietals. This tranquil gateway to the famed “gold country” celebrates their rich heritage with an annual festival; the Lodi Spring Wine Show, now in its 27th season. On Friday and Saturday, March 23-24, discover this enormous viticultural destination with over 40 world-class, boutique wineries and fine food purveyors participating. Great wines and smaller crowds makes this worth the trip. For more information, call (209) 369-2771 or visit www.grapefestival.com.
Hot Tickets
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, happening on Saturday and Sunday, March 17-18 at Copia. This 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 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.
Best Bet
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 24-25, 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 experience all the better. $30 per person all weekend or $20 for Sunday only. To participate, simply get on the Trail, or visit www.silveradotrail.com.
Great Getaway
Join Paso Robles appellation wineries during the weekend of March 16-18, as they celebrate their heritage wine grape and first varietal to bring critical acclaim to their region, Zinfandel! For three fun-filled days, various events will occur at local wineries, including: winemaker dinners, BBQs, music, art shows, seminars, open houses, and winery tours. The festival marquee event will happen on Saturday, March 17, and will be hosted at the Paso Robles Events Center with more than 40 Paso Robles Zinfandel producers pouring their best Zins and Zin Blends. For more information on the Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival, visit the website, www.pasowine.com or call (805) 239-8463.
Pinot Paradise
The ultimate Pinot-lovers experience happens in the Santa Cruz Mountains on Saturday and Sunday, March 17-18. Pathway To Pinot Paradise is a first-class party replete with essential epicurean refreshments, music and ambiance. More than 30 Santa Cruz Mountains wineries will be pouring their finest Pinots, accompanied by gourmet food from over a dozen fine, regional restaurants. Pathway tickets for the Saturday Preview Event are only $20 per person, however, for an extra $45, you can get the complete package including a tasty gourmet boxed-lunch and vineyard tour. Combination tickets for Saturday and Sunday are only $100 per person which includes the technical sessions, tastings and Pinot Pathway Passport. Sunday features the Grand Cruz Tasting at Villa Ragusa for $65 per person. Technical Session are available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day. Purchase your tickets today, (831) 685-8463; www.scmwa.com.
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