California
CategorySanta Maria Valley AVA: What to See and Do
This article is focused on what see and do in Santa Maria Valley. For a detailed look at the Santa Maria Valley AVA, including all of its ..
What Everyone Should Know about the Santa Maria Valley AVA
Wine-grape growing first came to the Santa Maria Valley in the 1830’s. However, it was not until 1964 that it became a modern, wine-growin..
Joseph Phelps Current Releases & New Customer Experiences
In 1973, Jospeh Phelps bought a former cattle ranch—760 acres in eastern St. Helena—in order to plant a vineyard. Based in Colorado, his b..
J Wilkes Wines: Tastes of the Present and Future
During my recent trip to Santa Barbara County, Wes Hagen met with me at the lovely new J. Wilkes tasting room in Los Olivos. Wes is both w..
Stewart Cellars and Gather Cafe in Yountville
Even with Yountville’s already bountiful roster of excellent tasting rooms and restaurants, Stewart Cellars is a welcome addition. The tow..
Cold Heaven Viognier (and more)
Morgan Clendenen founded Cold Heaven Cellars twenty years ago. She quickly established herself as one of the world’s best producers of Vio..
2014 Halter Ranch Ancestor and 3 More New Releases
2014 Halter Ranch CDP Adelaida District Paso Robles 90+ 14.8% 750ml $32
A Chateauneuf-du-Pape style blend with a twist—The Halter Ranch “..
Two Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon & Four Other New Releases
Grgich Hills Estate makes wines from their five estate vineyards in Napa Valley. The vineyards are in American Canyon, Carneros, Yountvill..
In Pursuit of Balance, The Final Tasting: Thoughts and Wines
In Pursuit of Balance held their final tasting on November 14 in San Francisco. It was one of the best tastings I’ve attended this year. I..
Spring Mountain Wines You Need to Try
Spring Mountain wines come in all shapes and sizes. The Spring Mountain District AVA, located just west of downtown St. Helena comes with ..