I’m willing to bet that most of you have never heard of the obscure creatures called Trabocchi; I certainly haven’t. Yet now that I have experienced their mystic presence, I cannot stop thinking of those sea-bound, oddly shaped contraptions and their somewhat unnerving appeal.
If you love lush, emerald-colored hillsides, tranquil turquoise sea, with its promise of exquisite delicacies, and vibrant, energetic wines, Abruzzo may just be the perfect destination.
Learn more about Chilean Wines
from Claudio Naranja
This week, Ilona shares her time with Claudio Naranja. Claudio was in San Francisco to promote the wines of Chile as the current President of the Vinas de Colchagua, a group of 17 wineries in the Colchagua Valley.
From the fluffy coastal fog rolling in, non-stop bird babble and sea lions barking, to the varied marine life—otters, harbor seals, and sea lions, and many a paddleboard with a puppy happily perched, Morro Bay’s laid-back magic is both eccentric and highly addictive.
Marlborough’s vision for the future, which is firmly rooted in its past and present, is the single most important thing at stake.
Tisza Bistro and Bar settled in the brand-new Holiday Inn the heart of Sonoma wine country, a charming town of Windsor. It is named after a river in Central Europe, that crosses several international borders; symbolic of Kriztian cooking philosophy of fusing elements from different cultures to enhance the dish’s flavor profile and visual appeal. Old school classic techniques combined with fresh, modern approach won him accolades during his tenure in Napa.
Steve Matthiasson dreamt of farming his entire life. He became an obsessed gardener and cook while studying philosophy in college. In 1994, while back in grad school for horticulture after three years as a bike messenger/wannabe farmer, he found a job in vineyards and orchards working for a small sustainable agriculture consulting firm. In 1999 he co-authored the California manual on sustainable vineyard practices. In 2002 he started consulting on vineyard practices in Napa. He still loves the challenge of solving vineyard problems for others, but since 2003 the primary focus has been on his own family farming and winemaking. Steve is a life-long student of the craft of viticulture.
Some experiences are profound, life-changing and mind-altering. Flying as a passenger in a Breitling Jet Team plane was such a moment. It will forever be etched in my memory as the best 45 minutes of my life. I floated three feet off the ground for weeks afterward, and still levitate when I reminisce.
I don’t know Texas very well. Having only visited three cities, I feel that I have barely scratched the surface. However, I can say, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I love Texas.
In its 21st year, Premiere Napa Valley is a trade-only futures auction that attracts hundreds of wine retailers from around the world. 217 lots were sold, 172 live, plus 45 e-auction. The day’s total take was $4.2 million, benefiting Napa Vintners, a non-profit association that promotes environmental awareness and Napa Valley wines. It counts 525 members in its ranks, several of which are coveted “cult” wineries.
The Inn at Newport Ranch is much more than a place, it's a revelation.
