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Leslie Dinaberg’s columns

Cocktail Corner: Swirl & Sip Series on the Canary Rooftop

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The Canary Rooftop, courtesy photo.

The Canary Rooftop is home to the popular Sip & Swirl wine tasting series during the summer, courtesy photo.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

I jump at any opportunity to hang out at the rooftop at the Canary Hotel, which is one of the most exquisite—and exclusive—360-degree views of Santa Barbara. The scenery alone is enough to make me leap at any invitation to visit the roof, add in some terrific wines and nibbles at the popular Sip & Swirl and it’s hard to beat.

This monthly summer series is held the third Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. starting June 15, and features a rotating collection of local wineries who will showcase their best vintages, while enjoying entertainment and tasty bites from C’est Cheese.

Here’s the schedule of local wineries:

June 15 Wineries             

July 20 Wineries               

August 17 Wineries        

September 21 Wineries                 

Tickets for the rooftop Swirl & Sip are $35 per person, and can be purchased the evening of at Finch & Fork. Hotel guests receive $5 off. Guests must be age 21 or older. For more information, visit FinchandForkRestaurant.com or call 805/879-9100. The Canary Hotel is located at 31 W. Carrillo St. Hope to see some of you there. Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

 Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on May 27, 2016.

 

Cocktail Corner: Summer Sips by the Sea

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Rosé Solstice is coming at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara on June 10. Courtesy photo.

Rosé Solstice is coming at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara on June 10. Courtesy photo.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Situated perfectly overlooking Butterfly Beach and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is always a fabulous place to meet for drinks, but this summer will offer some extra special sipping opportunities. 

Coming up next in the 2016 Summer Tasting Series is a celebration of Rosé Solstice on June 10. Rosé Day (how did I not know about this?!?) is apparently celebrated on this day in wine tasting regions, and the resort will celebrate with a variety of wines from France and California. Get ready to drink pink! The tasting runs from 6-9 p.m. in the Palmera Garden, where attendees also will enjoy French appetizers paired to match the wines.

Beers from Telegraph Brewing Company will be among those spotlighted on Jul. 22 at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Courtesy photo.

Beers from Telegraph Brewing Company will be among those spotlighted on Jul. 22 at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Courtesy photo.

In July the resort showcases Santa Barbara County microbrews, with a special beer tasting event located on the ocean front La Pacifica Terrace from 6-9 p.m. on July 22. Beers from Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company, Telegraph Brewery, Island Brewing Company and Rincon Brewery will offer tastings alongside treats, as part of an Independence-themed celebration called “Red, White and Brew.”

In August, Sunstone Vineyard takes center stage at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Courtesy photo.

In August, Sunstone Vineyard takes center stage at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Courtesy photo.

In August, Bella Vista Restaurant hosts an exceptional wine dinner at sunset, featuring food designed to pair with the exceptional wines of the Santa Ynez Valley’s Sunstone Winery.  Held from 6-9 p.m. on August 26, winemaker Bion Rice will be on hand to share his favorite varietals.

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara hosts a tribute to Santa Ynez Valley wines in September. Courtesy photo.

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara hosts a tribute to Santa Ynez Valley wines in September. Courtesy photo.

The series concludes in September with a tribute to the harvest season in the Santa Ynez Valley.  Rare local wines will be offered for tastings on September 23 in a beautiful resort venue to celebrate one of the world’s finest wine-growing regions.

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is located at 1260 Channel Dr. For reservations, please call 805/565-8232.

Cheers! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on May 20, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: 2016 Live Downtown Art & Wine Tour

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Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Downtown Art and Wine Tour

Art and wine are always an excellent pair, and this year’s 2016 Downtown LIVE Art & Wine Tour is adding a fun new twist to the mix: Live Art!

Each of the participating venues north of Carrillo Street—including 10 West Gallery, Bella Rosa Galleries, Churchill Jewelers, Distinctive Art Gallery, Engel & Vӧlkers, Imagine X Functional Neurology, Indigo Interiors, The Painted Cabernet, Santa Barbara Arts, Santa Barbara Public Market and Sullivan Goss – An American Gallery—hosts a LIVE cultural event paired with a Santa Barbara restaurant and regional winery.

“Our ingenious venues are exhibiting everything from painting, spinning, live photo development—even aerialists, all performed LIVE,” says Maggie Campbell, Downtown Santa Barbara Executive Director.

Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

You can sip from your choice of ten wineries and one brewery along your cultural journey. Participants include: The Brander Vineyard, Buttonwood Farm Winery & Vineyard, Cebada Wine, Fess Parker Winery, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co, Grassini Family Vineyards, Margerum Wine Company, Presidio Vineyard & Winery, Sanford Winery & Vineyards, Standing Sun Wines, Summerland Winery, Wine + Beer and Windrun Wines.

Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

Downtown Art & Wine Tour, courtesy Downtown Santa Barbara.

Food offerings included in the ticket price are from: Blush, bouchon Santa Barbara, Brasil Arts Café, C’est Cheese, Ca’Dario, Chase Restaurant & Lounge, Enterprise Fish Co, Finch & Fork, Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant, Nectar Eatery & Lounge, Nothing Bundt Cakes, opal restaurant and bar, Paradise Café, Pascucci, Patxi’s Pizza, Persona Wood Fired Pizzeria and Viva Santa Barbara.

Tickets, which are $65 for the tour and include the Final Party, may be purchased at www.DSBLiveArtWine.Nightout.com, or at the Downtown Santa Barbara office (27-B E. de la Guerra St., M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., check or credit card only). A limited number of tickets are available, so advance purchase is a must if you don’t want to miss out on the fun.

For more information, please call 805/962-2098, ext. 804 or visit www.DowntownSB.org. The festivities take place in Downtown Santa Barbara on Thursday, May 26, from 5:30-10 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Cheers to art and wine together! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

 Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on May 13, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: S.Y. Kitchen’s Refreshing Spring Cocktails

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SOL y ARENA made with fresh pineapple, cilantro, smoked agave, mescal, lime, roasted pineapple bitter, chipotle powder, courtesy SY Kitchen.

SOL y ARENA made with fresh pineapple, cilantro, smoked agave, mescal, lime, roasted pineapple bitter, chipotle powder, courtesy SY Kitchen. Photo by Elisabetta Antonacci.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Inspired by our warm, spring days, S.Y. Kitchen Mixologist Alberto Battaglini has added five creative new cocktails to the menu, all inspired by local market produce, herbs and botanicals.

Battaglini is the General Manager and resident Mixologist at S. Y. Kitchen where he creates his own infusions of spirits and bitters from a local bounty of fruits, vegetables and herbs.  “The soul of mixology is found in all the old recipes that we twist with modern ingredients and tools, in order to play with tastes to give every customer an extraordinary experience,” he says.

His newest cocktails include:

DOUBLE FRENCH BERRIES with cognac, blackberry, raspberry, mandarin napoleon infused with vanilla, simple syrup, courtesy SY Kitchen.

DOUBLE FRENCH BERRIES with cognac, blackberry, raspberry, mandarin napoleon infused with vanilla, simple syrup, courtesy SY Kitchen. Photo by Elisabetta Antonacci.

DOUBLE FRENCH BERRIES

cognac, blackberry, raspberry, mandarin napoleon infused with vanilla, simple syrup

 SOL y ARENA

fresh pineapple, cilantro, smoked agave, mescal, lime, roasted pineapple bitter, chipotle powder

VALLEY GIRL made with berries, mint, vodka, sambucus nigra, lime, vanilla sugar, courtesy SY Kitchen.

VALLEY GIRL made with berries, mint, vodka, sambucus nigra, lime, vanilla sugar, courtesy SY Kitchen. Photo by Elisabetta Antonacci.

 VALLEY GIRL

berries, mint, vodka, sambucus nigra, lime, vanilla sugar

S.Y. JULEP with mint, cynar, grapefruit juice, zesty attitude bitter, courtesy SY Kitchen.

S.Y. JULEP with mint, cynar, grapefruit juice, zesty attitude bitter, courtesy SY Kitchen. Photo by Elisabetta Antonacci.

 S.Y. JULEP

mint, cynar, grapefruit juice, zesty attitude bitter 

SELLE FRANÇAISE with cucumber, raspberry, gin, sambucus nigra, simple syrup, courtesy SY Kitchen.

SELLE FRANÇAISE with cucumber, raspberry, gin, sambucus nigra, simple syrup, courtesy SY Kitchen. Photo by Elisabetta Antonacci.

SELLE FRANÇAISE

cucumber, raspberry, gin, sambucus nigra, simple syrup

 S.Y. Kitchen is located at 1110 Faraday St. in Santa Ynez. For further information visit www.sykitchen.com.

Happy spring sipping! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

 Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on April 29, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: Getting Fizzy With Sloe Gin

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Savage Thorn, courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

Savage Thorn, courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

My first introduction to the Sloe Gin Fizz was a few decades ago at a football tailgate party in Berkley, Cal vs. UCLA. I don’t recall whether my Bruins won, but I can still remember my first delectable sip of that frothy and delicious Sloe Gin Fizz. It really is the perfect concoction for day drinking.

Sloe Gin Fizz courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

Sloe Gin Fizz courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

Not just for football games, this playful spirit is also great for backyard gatherings, sun soaked brunches and afternoon barbecues when warm days call for refreshing cocktails worthy of sipping all the livelong day. A frothy, tangy, lightly sweet Sloe Gin Fizz just hits the spot for spring.

I recently tried a new Sloe Gin from the all female distilling team at Sebastopol-based Spirit Works Distillery who are crafting the only traditional sloe gin made in the U.S. Unlike many of the syrup-based products associated with sloe gin, each Spirit Works’ batch starts with whole sloe berries, a tiny relative of the plum, which they carefully steep in their handcrafted gin. This vibrantly hued liqueur features both bright berry and citrus notes, combining ripe sweetness with fresh acidity. It’s really quite tasty!

For those who are unfamiliar with this spirit, Sloe Gin gets its flavor from the bittersweet sloe berry, a purplish-colored relative of the plum. The shrub is native to England, where Sloe Gin is very much more popular. Most Sloe Gins are liqueurs or cordials, which contain more sugar per liter than regular spirits.

The gals at Spirit Works Distillery were generous enough to share a few recipes with us, including a really good one for the Sloe Gin Fizz. Enjoy!

Sloe Gin Fizz

2 oz. Spirit Works Sloe Gin

1 oz. lemon juice

.5 oz. simple syrup

Egg white (optional, but recommended)

Soda water 

Combine sloe gin, lemon, simple syrup, and egg white into cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake and strain into fizz glass and top with soda water. Release the oils of a lemon peel over the cocktail as a garnish. Discard the lemon peel.

Savage Thorn

Sloe Gin Spritz courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

Sloe Gin Spritz courtesy Spirit Works Distillery.

1 oz. Spirit Works Sloe Gin

1 oz. Blanco Tequila

.75 oz. fresh lime juice

.5 oz. simple syrup 

Combine sloe gin, tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup into cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain over ice. Garnish with lime wheel.

Sloe Gin Spritzer

2 oz. Spirit Works Sloe Gin

Soda (Your choice – examples: sparkling lemonade, sparkling grapefruit soda, ginger beer, ginger ale, soda water) 

Pour sloe gin into glass and fill with ice. Top with your favorite soda. Garnish with appropriate citrus twist.

Sloe 75

1 oz Spirit Works Sloe Gin

1 oz fresh lime juice

3/4 oz simple syrup

1 dash Fee’s Old Fashioned Bitters 

dry sparkling wine

Have a champagne flute and chilled sparkling wine ready. In a shaker, combine sloe gin, lime, simple syrup, bitters and ice. Shake and strain into flute, and top with sparkling wine.

Happy spring sipping! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on April 22, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: Que Syrah, Syrah

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A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Fellow Syrah lovers, have we got a seminar for you. As part of the Santa Barbara Vintners Spring Weekend, on April 23, this special tasting seminar throws the spotlight on this dark, delicious, full-bodied grape.

Panel participants (L-R): Chris Hammell, Bien Nacido Vineyard; Pater Stolpman, Stolpman Vineyards; Michael Larner, Larner Vineyard; Mark Horvath, Crawford Family Vineyards; Larry Schaffer, Tercero Wines; Scott Sampler, the Central Coast Group Project; Chad Melville, SAMsARA; and Wendy Thies Sell, Seminar Moderator & Wine Writer (courtesy photos).

Panel participants (L-R): Chris Hammell, Bien Nacido Vineyard; Pater Stolpman, Stolpman Vineyards; Michael Larner, Larner Vineyard; Mark Horvath, Crawford Family Vineyards; Larry Schaffer, Tercero Wines; Scott Sampler, the Central Coast Group Project; Chad Melville, SAMsARA; and Wendy Thies Sell, Seminar Moderator & Wine Writer (courtesy photos).

Featuring an in-depth exploration and tasting of Santa Barbara County Syrah, the panelists are an impressive lot:

Chris Hammell, Vineyard Manager of Bien Nacido Vineyard

Mark Horvath, Owner & Winemaker at Crawford Family Wines

Michael Larner, Owner & Winemaker at Larner Vineyard and Winery

Chad Melville, Owner & Winemaker at SAMsARA

Scott Sampler, Owner & Winemaker at the Central Coast Group Project

Larry Schaffer, Owner & Winemaker at Tercero Wines

Peter Stolpman, Partner at Stolpman Vineyards

Wendy Thies Sell, Seminar Moderator & Wine Writer (& Santa Barbara Seasons contributor)

The Santa Barbara Wine Seminar takes place on Saturday, April 23 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, 555 McMurray Rd., Buellton. Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased here.

Wine Tasting, courtesy Santa Barbara Vintners.

Wine Tasting, courtesy Santa Barbara Vintners.

According to vinepair.com, “A great bonus to drinking Syrah is that due to the high level of tannins present in the wine, Syrah has one of the highest level of health-benefiting antioxidants.” I just like the taste.

I like the music too. Here’s the original Que Sera Sera by Doris Day, as well as an update by Corinne Bailey Rae. Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on April 8, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: Goodbar Grooviness

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The Goodbar, courtesy photo.

The Goodbar, courtesy photo.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Goodbar, the Goodland Hotel’s super cool lounge, is shaking things this spring.  Here’s what they have going on:

Spirited Flight Night Mondays

Branch out of your comfort zone and try something new! Guests get 20% off all flights on Monday nights. Try the Numero Uno featuring Partida Blanco, Herradura Reposado, and El Tesoro Anejo, or The Connoisseur with Pierre‎ Ferrand 1840, Park VS,  and Remy VSOP.

Weekly Good Hour

Every Monday – Friday from 4 – 7 p.m., snag discounts on small bites, like Charred Shishito Peppers or Chicken Wings, and beverage offerings like the House Margarita, Daiquiri and Bee’s Knees for $7. Happy Hour is also available at Outpost.

Trivia Night Wednesdays

Bring out your A game every Wednesday during Trivia Night. The lounge’s billiards table and backgammon boards will also be available for those looking to get in the game. Trivia starts at 7 p.m.

Blur The Line Thursdays

Grab a cocktail from the bar and listen to a variety of live musicians on the verge of greatness. Music starts at 7 p.m.

Industry Night Sundays

Every Sunday from 5 p.m. to close, all industry patrons can enjoy 20% off their bill with business card. And there’s also yummy Sunday Ramen Night at Outpost.

Goodbar at the Goodland is located at 5650 Calle Real, Goleta, www.outpostsb.com. Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on April 1, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: Fork & Cork Classic to Benefit Foodbank

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Foodbank of Santa Barbara County's 3rd Annual Fork & Cork Classic takes place on April 10 at Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club. Photos by Eric Roland.

Foodbank of Santa Barbara County’s 3rd Annual Fork & Cork Classic takes place on April 10 at Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club. Photos by Eric Roland.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

I love it when good causes and good food and wine come together. Such is the case with the 3rd annual Fork & Cork Classic to benefit Santa Barbara County Foodbank by pairing gourmet tastings with local wine to fund nutritious meals for Santa Barbara County residents.

Taking place on Sunday, April 10, from 3-6 p.m. at Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club (3375 Foothill Rd., Carpinteria), 100% of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Foodbank’s 300 local nonprofit partners who supply nutritious meals to Santa Barbara County residents.

Fork & Cork 2014, photo by Eric Roland Photography

Fork & Cork 2014, photo by Eric Roland Photography

Just last year, the Foodbank served 146,198 people, of whom 51,533 were children.

“Santa Barbara Fork & Cork Classic is an important event for the Foodbank,” says Erik Talkin, CEO, Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.  “By taking part in this event, attendees are helping to provide healthy produce and staples for in-need Santa Barbara County residents.”

This year the Fork & Cork Classic 2016 will honor Dario Furlati, chef-owner at Ca’ Dario Ristorante and Ca’ Dario Pizzeria; Steve Beckman, winemaker at Beckman Vineyards, and Jack Motter and Jeff Kramer, farmers-owners at Ellwood Canyon Farms, for the contributions they have made towards advancing their respective crafts as well as their efforts to support the local community, including the Foodbank.

2016 Fork & Cork Classic Honorees

Participating wineries and other beverage donors from previous  years include Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards, Ampelos Cellars, Ascendant Spirits, Beckmen Vineyards, Blair Fox Vineyards, Caribbean Coffee Company, Casa Dumetz Wines, Cutler´s Artisan Spirits, Consilience, Marianello & Tre Anelli, CORE Family Winery, Deep Sea by Conway Family Wines, DV8 Cellars, Falcone Family Vineyards, Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard, Foley Wine Estates, Island Brewing Company, Jaffurs Wine Cellars, Kaena Wine Company and Kenneth Volk Vineyards.

Also pouring in the past were Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards, Nagy Wines , Pegasus Estate Winery , Scott Cellars, Silver Wines LLC, Summerland Winery, Pressed Juicery , Turiya Wines, The Real McCoy Rum, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Water Store, William James Cellars, Whitcraft Winery and Zaca Mesa Winery & Vineyards.

For an updated list of food and beverage participants visit forkandcorkclassic.org. General Admission tickets are $95 and VIP tickets—which include early entrance to the event at 2:30 p.m. and a VIP lounge—are $125. To purchase tickets click here.

2016 Fork & Cork Classic

I hope to see some of you at this fun—and very worthy—event. Cheers! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

This story originally appeared in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on March 18, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: Lots of Local Food & Libations

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The Pullman Room at The Lark, photo by Rob Stark.

The Pullman Room at The Lark, photo by Rob Stark.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! by Leslie Dinaberg 

There are a lot of fun spring festivities going on in town this month. Here are few worth checking out:

March 6: Wild Brew Fest 

Cultivate Events (CE), The Santa Barbara Fermentation Festival (SBFF) and Soho Restaurant & Music Club (Soho) host their first annual Wild Brew Fest on Mar. 6. The event is at Soho, 1221 State St., from 3-6 p.m.

Wild Brew Fest serves various traditionally brewed and fermented alcoholic beverages including spirits, beer, cider, mead and wine. Visitors can enjoy these drinks en plein air with snacks featuring the freshest and finest food of the county. Wild Brew Fest also features do-it-yourself stations such as a pickle station where guests can learn the art of fermentation, courtesy of the Pacific Pickle Works and Pure Order Brewing Company, and Valley Brewers‘ home-brew station.

For information and tickets visit wildbrewfest.nightout.com.

March 12: Buellton Wine and Chili Festival

Give your taste buds a thrill at the 2016 Buellton Wine and Chili Festival where over 20 chili/salsa chefs and 30 wineries will compete! Come and see these amazing individuals battle it out to win prizes such as the Best Red Chili, Chili Verde, and Homemade Salsa. And have your say with the People’s Choice Awards for both wine and chili categories. Ticket price includes a souvenir wine glass, unlimited tastings, and live music. Make it a family event and spend the day eating good food and playing games like horse shoes, table tennis, and bocce ball. Bonus: children under 12 get in for free!

The event takes place from noon to 4 p.m. at Flying Flags RV Resort, 180 Avenue of the Flags, Buellton. If transportation is a concern, take the Brew Bus from Santa Barbara for $25. Leaves at 10:15 a.m. from Figueroa Mountain Brewery, 137 Anacapa St.) and brings you back at the end of the festival.

Presqu'ile Photomontage, courtesy Presqu'ile.

Presqu’ile Photomontage, courtesy Presqu’ile..

March 12: Presqu’ile Winery’s Tri-Tip Cook-Off

Presqu’ile Winery hosts its first annual Presqu’ile Tri-Tip Cook-Off,  featuring a stellar lineup of top-ten local culinary talents, including Chef Nick Barainca, the Auten Boys and more. Manning the grills in our beautiful al fresco setting, each will prepare their own inspired take on tri-tip for our guests and a panel of distinguished culinary judges.

To purchase tickets, contact Estates Manager Cameron Porter at (805) 937-8110 ext. 103 or cameron@presquilewine.com.

March 16-20: Taste of Solvang

In its 24th year, Taste of Solvang  is a fabulous destination for food and wine lovers alike. Some of the highlights include the Taste of Solvang Blind Tasting Challenge on March 17 at 6 p.m. at Wandering Dog Wine Bar, where guests will challenge their palates while learning more about wine as they match up varietals, regions, alcohol percentage, vintage and price points. Tastings will include four half-glasses of red wine and cheese pairings.

Saturday, March 19 brings the Solvang “Tasting Trail” (various locations, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.), where guests will sample and shop their way through Solvang as dozens of food businesses welcome Tasting Trail guests with edible treats. The Tasting Trail will overlap with this year’s Wine & Beer Walk, (various locations, Saturday 2–7 p.m. and Sunday 12–4 p.m.) so attendees may simultaneously take part in both food and drink activities. The Wine & Beer Walk features 15+ wine & beer tasting spots, and is a great way to discover new favorites, and sample local, boutique wines and craft beers as you work up a hunger for more Taste of Solvang happenings.

Courtesy Wandering Dog

Courtesy Wandering Dog Wine Bar.

March 20, 6 p.m.: The Lark Presents “Local Treasures Dinner” With Telegraph Brewing Company

The Lark Executive Chef Jason Paluska teams with Brian Thompson of Telegraph Brewing Company for an exceptional tasting menu of seasonal and locally sourced products designed to complement the acclaimed brewery’s signature beers and ales. Thompson, Founder and Brewmaster of Telegraph will be on hand to describe how adjustments in process and recipe manifest themselves in the beer’s flavor profiles. Telegraph Brewing Company is the recipient of numerous Gold, Silver and Bronze awards from the Great American Beer Festival and the Beer World Cup.

The dinner begins with Steelhead Ocean Trout Crudo with Thai Chile & Avocado Mousse, Hearts of Palm, Pickled Kumquat and Candied Coriander Seed paired with Telegraph White Ale; followed by Grilled Delta Asparagus with Bone Marrow Hollandaise, Meyer Lemon Peel, Crispy Sunchokes and Nasturtium paired with Telegraph California Ale.  The main course is Paluska’s succulent Roasted Pork Belly Porchetta with Creamy Hominy, Red Cabbage, Escabeche Pickled Vegetables, Crispy Pig Ears, Preserved Lime and Oregano paired with Telegraph Los Padres Saison. Completing the dinner is a dessert of Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras & Warm Donuts with Hibiscus Caramel and Duck Fat Pecans, created by Executive Pastry Chef Jeff Haines and paired with Telegraph Reserve Wheat with Hibiscus.

Served in The Lark’s private Pullman Room (pictured), pricing for “Local Treasures” with Telegraph Brewing Company is $111 per person, all inclusive of taxes and service charge. Tickets may be purchased by calling The Lark at 805.284.0370 or visit Local Treasures at The Lark.  Seating is limited.

The Lark is located at 131 Anacapa St. in the Funk Zone.

Steve and Crystal Clifton, courtesy photo.

Steve and Crystal Clifton, courtesy photo.

March 22, 6:30 p.m.: Les Marchands and Palmina Wine Dinner

Another delicious event in Funk Zone is Les Marchands and Palmina Wines celebration of Spring with a five course paired dinner and an intimate evening with Palmina’s Steve and Crystal Clifton. For more than 20 years the pair has produced compelling, food friendly wines that showcase the tremendous versatility the Santa Barbara County wine growing region has to offer.  Add Chef Weston Richards into the equation and you get an exquisite five-course menu to compliment and showcase the depth and brilliance of the Palmina line-up! Chef Weston’s menu will be revealed later this week, but reservations are now being taken.

The cost is $99, excluding tax and gratuity, and seating is limited. To purchase tickets and reserve your seats, email dan@lesmarchandswine.com.

Les Marchands Wine Bar & Merchant is located at 131 Anacapa St., Suite B. in the Funk Zone.

Hope to see some of you there. Cheers!

Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on March 4, 2016.

Cocktail Corner: The Wonderful World of Pinot Noir

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Courtesy World of Pinot Noir.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! by Leslie Dinaberg 

The word Pinotphile may not roll off the tongue quite as sweetly as say, a 2012 Sta. Rita Hills Fess Parker Pinot Noir, but the World of Pinot Noir—which features Fess Parker among the more than 200 top interpreters of the grape—is quite a delicious event.

The sixteenth annual World of Pinot Noir is taking place for the third time locally, March 4-5 at Bacara Resort & Spa. This indescribably fun weekend brings pinot noir producers and pinot noir enthusiasts together for an impressive line-up of educational, culinary and tasting events highlighting a veritable buffet of pinot noirs from California, Oregon, Burgundy, Champagne, New Zealand and Tasmania.

Courtesy World of Pinot Noir.

Tasting Events

The World of Pinot Noir Friday Focus Tasting showcases 100 Pinot producers pouring a vineyard designate and library wine selection. The Saturday Grand Tasting features a different lineup of wineries and expands to 125 brands. Both tastings feature wine country appetizers from Bacara Executive Chef Vincent Lesage.

Pinot Focused Seminars

– A Sparkling Evolution explores the grower-producer Champagne and Sparkling wine movement

– The Diversity of Maison Joseph Drouhin’s Burgundy with Frederic Drouhin focuses on a tasting of wine from different “climats” and Burgundy’s recent designation as a World Heritage site by UNESCO

– Côte d’ Or March Madness is an educational Premier Cru wine tasting that pits the best villages from the Côte de Beaune against the Côte de Nuit

– Debunking the Myth: Cheese & Chocolate wine pairing seminars features fromagers and chocolatiers throwing down the gauntlet to winemakers

Courtesy World of Pinot Noir.

Featured Pinot Noir Dinners

– Southwestern featuring “ranchero” style cuisine prepared by Frank Ostini of Hitching Post II

– Pacific Northwest with guest Chef Jason French from Oregon’s Ned Ludd restaurant

– Country French dinner prepared by Bacara Executive Chef Vincent Lesage

– The Rock Stars of Pinot Noir event honoring Josh Jensen with Calera Wine Company

– Pioneers & Protégés dinner pairs wines and cuisine with winemaker mentors and mentees

Pinot in the Movies

The winning films from the inaugural International Wine Film Festival will be shown on the big screen in the resort’s state of the art theatre. Somm: Into the Bottle will be screened on Saturday afternoon.

Trust me, this is a weekend pinot noir lovers won’t want to miss. And if you need any more incentive, a portion of the funds from the World of Pinot Noir silent auction benefit the Michael Bonaccorsi Foundation with Allan Hancock College and the Keith Patterson Memorial Endowment at Cal Poly University.

All events take place at the Bacara Resort & Spa, 8301 Hollister Ave. For additional information or to purchase tickets visit worldofpinotnoir.com.

Hope to see some of you there. Cheers!

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When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on February 26. 2016.