On a cold autumn evening smack dab in the middle of harvest in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma, California, you will find Randy Pitts crushing grapes and rocking out to old-school, punk rock legends like Pennywise and NOFX. “Music motivates us. It inspires us with the little notes that dance around in our head […]
Tag: Zinfandel
Beth’s Smart Sip: 2017 Artezin Zinfandel, Mendocino County
I dined with friends at The Q Restaurant and Bar in Napa, Califonia, recently. Although I have lived in Napa for over five and a half years, I had never been to the Q. Being a Southern belle, of course I went for one of the signature dishes, the brisket. While my companions and I […]
Beth’s Smart Sip: 2014 Highlands Winery Zinfandel
My passion for zinfandel made the way it ought to be was reignited when I tasted this sample from Oakville’s Highlands Winery. It is not often that I use the word lovely and elegant when describing a zinfandel, but this is just that. Black cherry fruit and mouthwatering acidity lead into a subtle peppery finish. Structured, […]
Robert Biale Vineyards
Not long ago, I had lunch with Maggie Pramuk Mazotti, daughter of the co-founder of Robert Biale Vineyards. Being a recent transplant to Napa, I had heard of Biale, but really did not know their story. After our lunch, I returned to work and suggested we schedule a staff tasting there. *CLICK HERE TO READ*
Hendry Ranch Wines
By far, Hendry was the most comprehensive tour and tasting I have ever experienced. Those who are new to the Napa Valley, grape growing, winemaking, how to taste wine, and wine and food pairing would benefit greatly from a morning spent with second-generation vintner and winemaker, George O. Hendry. *CLICK HERE TO READ*
She Said, He Said: 2017 ZAP Zinfandel Experience
*This post is my entry for Wine Writing Challenge #31, Faith, as described at this link.Voting begins March 7, 2017 and goes through Monday, March 13 at this link.* Elizabeth (Beth) Smith: She Said The definition of faith is primarily religious in nature. However these synonyms struck a chord with me – affection, allegiance, commitment, […]
2017 Zinfandel Experience
It’s been two years since I attended Zinfandel Advocates and Producers‘ (ZAP) Zinfandel Experience, but I’m back this year for the Grand Tasting on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at James R. Herman Cruise Terminal Pier 27, Embarcadero, in San Francisco and I can’t wait! Zinfandel Experience is a multi-day extravaganza, February 23-25, 2017, celebrating […]
Dutton-Goldfield Winery
Once you visit Dutton-Goldfield Winery in the Russian River Valley, you understand the significance of the phrase ‘cool climate’ with regard to winegrowing and winemaking. It is indeed quite chilly in the mornings, with moderating breezes throughout the day. I must confess that if I were not living in the Napa Valley, I would love to […]
Trentadue Winery
Many people outside of this area may not know of Trentadue, but Leo and Evelyn Trentadue are well known in Northern California as farming and winegrowing pioneers since the 1950s. *CLICK HERE TO READ*
Lodi: Beyond the Zinfandel
The Opportunity When I was invited by Visit Lodi to spend a weekend there, I jumped at the chance. I love to travel. I also love dispelling stereotypes and delving into a new place. When Lodi is mentioned, often people think zinfandel. Lodi is more than that. It offers a plethora of wines, food, and […]
