Category Archives: wine

Cocktail Corner: A Taste of Italy with DoctorWine

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The Ultimate Guide to Italian Wine 2017 California Tour, photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

As far as I’m concerned, one of the only things more fun than enjoying a great wine and food pairing is enjoying it with smart people who are willing to share their knowledge and make the experience even more delicious. When DoctorWine himself, Daniele Cernilli—a highly acclaimed expert on Italian wines and the author of The Ultimate Guide to Italian Wine 2017—came to town last week, I was thrilled to be able to break bread with him and taste wines from some of his favorite producers.

Our tasting at Les Marchands Wine Bar & Merchant was definitely a treat.

The Ultimate Guide to Italian Wine 2017 California Tour, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Named one of the “50 Most Influential People in the Wine World” by Decanter Magazine, Cernilli is a journalist by trade, and in addition to being a regular contributor to Italian newspapers, trade and consumer publications, he has written a number of technical books on wine and wine tasting. In addition to multiple editions of The Ultimate Guide to Italian Wine, his books include, among others, Memorie di un degustatore di vini (Memories of a Wine Taster), a chronicle-memoir of his first 25 years as a taster with this opinions on many Italian and foreign wines, and Vitigni del Mondo (World Wine Grapes), written in collaboration with Dario Cappelloni, which is the most complete catalog of wine grapes ever published in Italy.

In other words, he knows his stuff, and so did the eight wine producers who accompanied him on a tour of California.

First up was Torre Rosazza – Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali del Fruili DOC 2016. Torre Rosazza is one of the largest producers in Europe, and Pinot Grigio has been cultivated in Friuli for centuries with great results that showcase the area’s hilly terrain. Luisa Bortolotto, the winery’s Export Manager was on hand to answer questions. Paired with a delicious salad of gems lettuces, heirloom tomato, cucumber, mint and  mouth-watering herb creme fraiche, this wine was fresh and very drinkable.

DoctorWine Daniele Cernilli leads The Ultimate Guide to Italian Wine 2017 California Tour luncheon at Les Marchands, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Next up were two wines paired with a delicious summer corn chowder: Querciabella – Chianti Classico DOCG 2013 from Tuscany, along with Owner Giacomo Neri; and Feudo Maccari – Saia Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC 2014 from Sicily.

Querciabella, as DoctorWine explained, has been organic since 1988, long before there were any regulations around the practice and this very classic, 100% Sangiovese Chianti was quite lovely with a balance of fruity and savory notes. The Feudo Maccari wine, made from 100% Nero d’Avola grapes was very complex and full bodied, but quite well balanced, and also paired very well with the soup.

Our main course was the Les Marchands fabulous take on Steak Frites, with pan seared hangar steak, wild argula, salsa verde and French fries. It paired really well with three different wines: Poliziano Asinone Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2012 from Tuscany/Montepulciano, accompanied by Owner Francesco Carletti (“King of the old Tuscan wines is the Nobile,” says DoctorWine, and it did indeed have some royal flavor); Pio Cesare Barolo DOCG 2013 from Piedmont, a lovely 100% Nebbiolo classic Barolo; and Velenosi Roggio Del Filare Rosso Piceno Superiore DOCG 2012 from Marche. 

Finally a lovely assortment of cheese and Helena Ave Bakery breads accompanied the last two wines: the Robert Parker 100-point-rated Casanova di Neri – Tenuta Nuova Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 from Tuscany/Montalcino, along with General Manager Roberto La Sorte (yes, it was excellent); and the Bertani – Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOC 2007 from Veneto/Amarone, accompanied by Technical Director Girdano Formenti. DoctorWine explained that the Bertani was a classic Amarone, made the traditional way, in vineyards devoted entirely to producing drying grapes. The grapes are set aside to dry on (racks made from bamboo canes and then they ferment in concrete and age in barrels for seven years. It’s a complicated process, but so very worth it.

Want to learn more about Italian wine? Cernilli’s website, www.doctorwine.it,  is entirely bi-lingual (Italian-English) and is designed especially to give an Italian perspective to a global public. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Cheers! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

 

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 on September 5, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Central Coast Wine Classic

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Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

This week brings the 32nd Annual Central Coast Wine Classic, as well as the 75th birthday celebration of its Founder & Chairman Archie McLaren. A benefit for the Talley Winery Fund for Vineyard & Farm Workers, the Friends of Hearst Castle and the Santa Barbara Center for the Performing Arts, this weekend is a celebration of great wine as well as great generosity.

First up, on Thursday, August 24 is a Rare French Wine Dinner taking place in the private dining room of the LIDO at Dolphin Bay Hotel & Spa in Pismo Beach.

The dinner begins with a toast featuring the extraordinary Limited Edition 2006 Lanson “Clos Lanson” Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne in Magnum. According to organizers, “In 2016, Champagne Lanson winemaker Hervé Dantan decided to release 7,870 bottles (Only 655 cases!) of 2006 Clos Lanson, which are all individually numbered. Considered as ‘one of the most exciting new wines of the entire Champagne’ region by the well-known Champagne expert, Richard Juhlin; indicated as the ‘Haut Brion’ of Champagne in Drinks Business, Clos Lanson is a precious and rare wine from the one hectare comprising the only vineyard in the city of Reims. This exceptional and rare Champagne, which Dantan unequivocally states is ‘certain to delight the most demanding connoisseurs,’ was aged for nine years prior to release, and the Magnums will be released to great anticipation and fanfare this year during Vinexpo in Bordeaux.”

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Dolphin Bay Resort Executive Chef Jacob Moss will present a creative six course menu that showcases the remarkable rare wines, all of which were provided by Don Schliff, a longtime supporter of the festival and Retired CEO of Imports for Wine Warehouse. Among the highlights: 2014 Didier Dagueneau ‘Silex’ Pouilly Fume; 2006 Marquis de Laguiche Montrachet in Magnum; 1999 Armand Rousseau Clos de Beze in Magnum; 1970 Chateau Lynch-Bages, Pauillac in Magnum; 1989 Hommage a Jacques Perrin Chateau de Beaucastel in Magnum; 1990 M. Chapoutier Le Pavillon Rouge and 1967 Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes.

Friday, August 25 offerings include a choice of two winery dinners:

A Farm to Table Dinner at Talley Vineyards & Winery in the Arroyo Grande Valley, Prepared by Chef Brian Collins and featuring San Luis Obispo Wine Country wineries, plus special Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley Vintners who are Wine Classic supporters. Participating wineries include: Center Of Effort, Chamisal,Laetitia, Niven Family, Saucelito Canyon, Talley, Tolosa and Verdad.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Also on Friday, August 25 is a superb group of iconic California Vintners at Lido Restaurant at Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in Pismo Beach. The wineries include Alma Rosa from the Santa Rita Hills, Au Bon Climat in the Santa Maria Valley, Babcock in the Santa Rita Hills, Eberle from Paso Robles, Pisoni from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Pride Mountain at the confluence of Napa and Sonoma Counties.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

The 32nd Annual Auction, on Saturday, August 26 at the ACI Jet Services Hangar at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, features an impressive array of wines and upscale experiences available to bid on, as well as a super silent auction and multi-course gourmet luncheon.

The super silent auction includes many large format etched and hand-painted bottles from magnums to salmanazars representing the unique blends created for the Wine Classic over the years. The live auction will include not only unique etched and hand-painted large format artist bottles, but also rare wines from throughout California and around the world, many donated by McClaren from his private cellar.

The auction luncheon is prepared and presented by Wine Classic’s family of chefs including: Chef Rick Manson of Chef Rick’s Ultimately Fine Foods, Chef Frank Ostini of Buellton Hitching Post and Chef Michael Hutchings of Michael’s Catering in Santa Barbara.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

Courtesy Central Coast Wine Classic.

On Sunday, August 27 is the VIP Departure Brunch at the Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa in Pismo Beach, featuring a  special Champagne and caviar from Graham Gaspard of Black River Caviar as a fond farewell to this extravagant event. For more information, visit centralcoastwineclassic.org.

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 on August 23, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Wine & Fire Weekend

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Wine & Fire Weekend, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

Wine & Fire Weekend, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

Sta. Rita Hills Wine Alliance hosts the annual Wine & Fire Weekend Aug. 18-20. In addition to special events and tastings throughout the weekend at member wineries, there is also a Barn Party at Dierberg Star Lane on Friday Aug. 18, where member wineries will share their library stashes, large format bottles and small production wines to get you warmed up for the weekend.

Participating Wineries include: Babcock Winery, Bratcher Winery, Brewer-Clifton, Byron Winery, Crawford Family Wines, Dierberg, Fiddlehead Cellars, Flying Goat Cellars, Foley Estates, Hilliard Bruce, Hitching Post Wines, Ken Brown, La Voix Winery, LaMontagne, Loring Wine Company, Lutum Wines, Montemar, Peake Ranch, Sanford Winery & Vineyards, Seagrape Wine Company and Spear. Plus, antipasti and wood fired pizzas by Bello Forno, a cheese buffet presented by Central Coast Specialties and great music by the T-Bone Ramblers will set the pace for a weekend of wining and dining.

Wine & Fire Weekend, photo by Jeremy Ball, Bottle Branding, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

Wine & Fire Weekend, photo by Jeremy Ball, Bottle Branding, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

Next up on Saturday morning is a Focused Tasting and Lunch Featuring the Vineyards of Santa Rosa Road. The morning will begin with a Sparkling Reception, followed by a “virtual” tour as you travel through the mile markers of Santa Rosa Road. The event takes place at El Jabali Vineyard and Matt Kettmann, from Wine Enthusiast, will act as tour guide.

Vineyards and producers representing: Bentrock – Bratcher, Babcock, El Jabali – Alma Rosa, Fe Ciega – Longoria / Fiddlestix Vineyard – Dragonette, Fiddlehead, Hitching Post / La Rinconada – Sanford / Lafond Vineyards – Lafond, Sweetzer Cellars / Peake Ranch – Peake Ranch Wines / Quinta Santa Rosa Vineyard – Prodigal / Radian – Ken Brown, Crawford Family Wines, Montemar / Rancho La Vina – Seagrape, Temperance Cellars, LaMontagne / Rio Vista Vineyard – Thorne, Flying Goat, Montemar, Temperance Cellars / Rita’s Crown Vineyard – Babcock,  Sweetzer Cellars / Sanford and Benedict Vineyard – Hitching Post, Sanford and Ken Brown.

Wine & Fire Weekend, photo by Jeremy Ball, Bottle Branding, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

Wine & Fire Weekend, photo by Jeremy Ball, Bottle Branding, courtesy Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance.

After the tour is lunch and a sampling of Rose wines produced by the members.

Finally, on Sunday, Aug. 19 is the Grand Tasting, where more than 40 wineries and sizzling local chefs and farmers will be on hand for an evening of chilling and grilling at the beautiful, historic La Purisima Mission, located on the edge of the AVA. Babe Farms, Campbell Farms, Central Coast Specialty Foods, Homegrown Cowboy, The Hitching Post II, Los Amigos BBQ, Tollhouse BBQ, Scratch Kitchen, The Ballard Inn and the Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers will be serving up an amazing selection of local food favorites!

Participating Wineries: Alma Rosa, Ave, Babcock, Bratcher Winery, Brewer-Clifton, Byron Winery, Buscador, Clos Pepe Estate, Crawford Family Wines, Dragonette, Fiddlehead Cellars, Flying Goat Cellars, Foley Estates, Hilliard Bruce, Hitching Post Wines, Ken Brown, Kessler-Haak Wines, Kitá Wines, La Voix Winery, Lafond Winery, LaMontagne, Liquid Farm, Longoria, Loring Wine Company, Lutum Wines, Montemar, Moretti Wines, Pali Wine Company, Peake Ranch, Sanford Winery & Vineyards, Seagrape Wine Company, Spear, Sweetzer Cellars, Temperance Cellars, Thorn – The Prisoner Wine Company, Transcendence and Zotovich Vineyards & Winery.

For more information, visit staritahills.com/wine-fire.

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 on August 18, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: August Ridge Vineyards Opens Tasting Room in La Arcada

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Manager Elise Kimball (left) and Hope Riley welcome visitors to the new August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Manager Elise Kimball (left) and Hope Riley welcome visitors to the new August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

A little gem of a tasting room recently opened its doors in La Arcada.  August Ridge Vineyards, a family-owned winery ten miles outside of Paso Robles in Creston, specializes in Italian varietals (Sangiovese, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Pinot Grigio, Primitivo and more).

The winery was started by John Backer and Jill Zamborelli Backer back in 2001, but their shared passions for food and wine have even deeper roots. John’s family has been growing grapes in California since the 1800’s, while Jill’s family brought their Italian food and wine traditions over from a small town just outside of Rome.

The charming new August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

The charming new August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

I tried both the regular and estate reserve tasting flights (with some assistance from my husband), and was pleased with the offerings from this small production winery. In particular, their flagship wines were delicious. Try the 2012 Jovial, an estate reserve super Tuscan blend with the tasty aromas of red cherry and plum, and the 2012 Ingenious, another estate reserve blend, primarily Nebbiolo-based, with a robust, earthy flavor.

These wines are all lovingly produced in very small quantities, so we are fortunate to be able to taste them right in our own backyard.

August Ridge Tasting Room hours are as follows: 

Charley is on hand to greet visitors at the August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Charley is on hand to greet visitors at the August Ridge Tasting Room in La Arcada. Photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Wednesday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sunday-Monday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Tuesday: closed

The tasting room is located at 5 E. Figueroa St. in La Arcada. Stop by and say hello to Tasting Room Manager Elise Kimball and her adorable doodle dog, Charley. For more information visit augustridge.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 on August 4, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Brave & Maiden Tasting Room Breaks Ground

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Brave & Maiden tasting room, courtesy image.

Brave & Maiden tasting room, courtesy image.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

Brave & Maiden Estate recently broke ground on its new winery and tasting room, which will be located on the winery’s 60-acre estate along Refugio Road in Santa Ynez. The sustainably farmed vineyard takes its name from the “Legend of Nojoqui” (pronounced Naw-ho-wee), an indigenous incarnation of Romeo & Juliet. Set at the nearby Nojoqui Falls, the legend recounts the story of star-crossed lovers who choose death over separation.

The new facility and tasting room has been in the works for many years. Brave & Maiden Estate was established in 2011 and occupies the land they purchased in 2010. Planted to 46 acres of vineyards—including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Grenache, and Sauvignon Blanc—Brave & Maiden’s wine program, led by winemaker Paul Hobbs, has found success in both restaurants and bottle shops throughout Southern and Central California, earning accolades for their single-vineyard estate wines and red blends.

Entrance to Brave & Maiden tasting room, courtesy image.

Entrance to Brave & Maiden tasting room, courtesy image.

The new facility will offer an entirely new tasting experience, along with a production facility for up to 8,000 cases. “We are thrilled to see the project get underway,” says Jason Djang, Managing Director. “The plans have been in the works for some time, so we’re excited to finally see earth moving and our vision coming to fruition.”

The project is designed by renowned wine country architect group Backen, Gillam & Kroeger Architects, known for projects such as Harlan Estate Winery, Larkmead Winery and Meadowood Napa Valley, among others. The space is Backen, Gillam & Kroeger Architects’ first project on the Central Coast, and is designed to prominently showcase views of the picturesque vineyard overlooking the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Brave & Maiden winemaker Paul Hobbs, courtesy photo.

Brave & Maiden winemaker Paul Hobbs, courtesy photo.

 “At Brave & Maiden, our goal is to not only be great vintners, but gracious hosts as well,” states Djang. “Hospitality will be central to our DNA as we create a unique and unforgettable experience with our wines, and the estate.” 

The winery and tasting room will open its doors by appointment the second half of 2018—a milestone the Brave & Maiden team feels will expand their goals as a brand.

“Santa Barbara County truly is a world-class wine region and I welcome the opportunity to be involved as the area embraces growth,” says Hobbs.

 “We were humbled by the market’s reception of the brand in 2014, selling out of our first two vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon,” says Djang. “Now, with construction of our new winery underway, we’re eager to open our own doors for guests to experience our wines first-hand. Obviously, we believe in the greatness of Santa Barbara County as a wine region and have invested accordingly.”

Brave & Maiden vineyard, courtesy photo.

Brave & Maiden vineyard, courtesy photo.

For more information, visit braveandmaiden.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 on July 28, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Local Restaurants Earn Wine Spectator’s Top Honors

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The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch, courtesy photo.

The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch, courtesy photo.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

As if there were any doubt that Santa Barbara County is Wine Country, Wine Spectator recently honored 20 local restaurants with their highest honors for excellence.

“Wine Spectator‘s Restaurant Awards recognize restaurants whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers,” according to the guidelines.

The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch earned The Grand Award, which is Wine Spectator‘s highest honor, given to only 89 restaurants around the world. According to Wine Spectator, this honor is “given to restaurants that show an uncompromising, passionate devotion to the quality of their wine programs. These wine lists typically feature 1,000 or more selections, and deliver serious breadth of top producers, outstanding depth in mature vintages, a selection of large-format bottles, excellent harmony with the menu, and superior presentation. These restaurants offer the highest level of wine service.”

Angel Oak at the Bacara Resort & Spa, Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe, Opal Restaurant & Bar and Wine Cask all earned The Best of Award of Excellence. “These wine lists display excellent breadth across multiple winegrowing regions and/or significant vertical depth of top producers, along with superior presentation. Typically offering 350 or more selections, these restaurants are destinations for serious wine lovers, showing a deep commitment to wine, both in the cellar and through their service team,” according to Wine Spectator.

“We are thrilled for the honor in our first year of opening,” says Anne Elcon, Director of Marketing & Communications at Bacara Resort & Spa.

Angel Oak Wine Cellar, LaFemme Photography, courtesy photo.

Angel Oak Wine Cellar, LaFemme Photography, courtesy photo.

Also receiving The Award of Excellence, for “wine lists, which typically offer at least 90 selections, feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers, along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style,” were several other local restaurants: Barbareño, Bella Vista at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, Bouchon Santa Barbara, Chuck’s Steak House Of Hawaii, Les Marchands Wine Bar & Merchant, Olio Pizzeria, Olio e Limone Ristorante, S.Y. Kitchen, Sly’s, The Harbor Restaurant, The Hitching Post II, The Lark, Tre Lune and Willows at Chumash Casino Resort.

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 on July 14, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Sip & Swirl on the Canary Rooftop

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The lovely rooftop of the Canary is the setting for the sip & swirl wine tasting series, courtesy photo.

The lovely rooftop of the Canary is the setting for the sip & swirl wine tasting series, courtesy photo.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

You know that summer is finally here when Finch & Fork and the Canary Hotel start up their popular wine tasting series, Sip & Swirl. This monthly series features local wines, cheese and entertainment set to stunning views from downtown’s only rooftop terrace. 

Quite frankly, the scenery alone is enough to make me leap at any invitation to visit the roof, add in some terrific wines and nibbles and there’s no reason not to celebrate with a toast to one of Santa Barbara’s best views. 

Held once a month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Sip & Swirl features a rotating collection of local wineries showcasing their best vintages. Sip & Swirl-goers have the opportunity to learn about one of Santa Barbara County’s leading industries, while enjoying entertainment and a selection of premium cheeses.

Upcoming Sip & Swirl dates are:  July 19, August 16, and September 20. Tickets are $40, which includes tastings of all the wines and cheeses. Buy online at NightOut.com, or purchase at the door. 

As of press time, wineries scheduled to pour on July 19 are Larner Vineyard & Winery, Babcock Winery and Jaffurs Wine Cellars, with additional purveyors expected to join in on the fun.  The Canary Hotel is located at 31 W. Carrillo St.

Hope to see 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 on June 16, 2017.

Cocktail Corner: Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival

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Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Food & Wine Festival.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

This month marks the 30th anniversary of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History‘s beloved wine festival, and they are commemorating the event with a new name—the Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival—which more accurately reflects the bounty of sips and bites found at this signature fundraiser.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Food & Wine Festival.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival.

While the food and the wine have always flowed freely at the festival, this year events manager Meridith Moore has set a goal to have 50 food vendors on the roster this year to accompany the 50 wineries. “My hope is that the name change will help to attract even more of Santa Barbara county’s incredible food vendors and highlight the ones that have been participating all these years,” she says.

As of press time, food vendors include: Barbareno, Benchmark, Bob’s Well Bread, Brophy Bros., Buena Onda, Ca’ Dario, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Chooket/Your Cake Baker, Corazon Cocina, Country Catering, Farmer Boy, Finch and Fork Restaurant, Gelson’s ~ Santa Barbara, Helena Avenue Bakery, Hippypop, Il Fustino, Industrial Eats, La Mousse, La Sorelle, Loquita, Michael’s Catering, Mr. E’s Freeze, Mulberry Love, Pacific Pickle Works, Pico, Renaud’s Patissiere and Bakery , Slate Catering Co, Solvang Bakery, The Bear and Star, The Berry Man, Tondi Gelato, Via Maestra 42 and Whole Foods Santa Barbara.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Food & Wine Festival.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival.

Wineries pouring this year include: Alexander & Wayne, Alma Rosa, Andrew Murray Vineyards, Area 5.1, Arthur Earl Winery, Au Bon Climat, Babcock Winery, Beckmen Vineyards, Bedford Winery, Blair Fox, Brander Vineyard, Brewer-Clifton, Buttonwood, Byron by Nielson, Ca Del Grevino, Cambria, Carr Vineyards and Winery, Casa Dumetz, Cebada, Consilience, CORE, Crawford Family Wines, Dierberg, De Paola, Epiphany Cellars, Falcone Family Vineyards, Feliz Noche, Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard, Fiddlehead Cellars,

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Food & Wine Festival.

Photo courtesy Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival.

Flying Goat Cellars, Foxen, Gainey Vineyards, Grassini Family Vineyards, Hilliard Bruce, Jaffurs Wine Cellars, Jamie Slone, Kalyra, Ken Brown Wines, Kenneth Volk Vineyards, Koehler Winery, Kunin, LaFond Winery, Larner Wines, Longoria, Loring Wine Company, Lumen, Margerum Wine Company, Melville, Mosby Winery & Vineyard, Municipal Winemakers, Notary Public Wines, Oreana, Palmina, Point Concepcion, Potek, Pure Order Brewing Company, Qupé, Rancho Sisquoc Winery, Refugio Ranch, Rideau, Sagebrush Annie’s, Santa Barbara Winery, Silver Wines, Spear Winery, Star Lane Vineyard, Sunstone Winery, Tablas Creek, Tatomer, Tercero Wines, Third Window Brewing, Toucan Wines, Transcendence Wines, Vogelzang, Whitcraft Winery and Zaca Mesa.

The beautiful grounds of Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History (2559 Puesta del Sol) are a wonderful spot to appreciate being out in nature, and what better way to enjoy a summer weekend than sipping wine underneath the oaks along Mission Creek? Especially when the proceeds go to support the work of the museum. The event takes place on Saturday, June 24.

Guests 21 and older may purchase admission on the Museum’s website (www.sbnature.org/winefestival). This event is always a sellout, so if you want to join in the fun, act quickly or you not get tickets.

Hope to see 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 on June 2, 2017.

Local Dish: The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn

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The new interior of the Gathering Table at Ballard Inn, photo by Tenley Fohl Photography.

The new interior of the Gathering Table at Ballard Inn, photo by Tenley Fohl Photography.

The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn is the new restaurant concept from Chef Budi Kazali, who has owned the property with his wife Chris Kazali since 2004.

Ballard Inn has always been highly regarded for its romantic ambiance and award-winning cuisine, but the new restaurant and decor offers a much more fun, casual and inviting experience. Rather than a special occasion place, it feels like a more welcoming spot to gather over incredible food that’s meant to be shared.

“Modern farmhouse ambiance with Colonial influence” is how the team describes the new look—designed by local interior designer Heather Saarloos—and it’s pretty accurate.  As Budi explains, “We’re lucky that Ballard Inn has been a much-loved luxury destination over the years, but we felt it was time to introduce a new level of sophistication to our atmosphere.”

The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn by Tenley Fohl Photography.

The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn photo by Tenley Fohl Photography.

The Inn’s 15 guest rooms, which have undergone various updates throughout the years, will also receive a refresh to convey a sense of continuity throughout the entire space.

With a warm and inviting atmosphere, a long communal table and a menu featuring shared plates, The Gathering Table is “meant to be a gathering place for locals and visitors, a fun and inviting place to gather over incredible food,” says Chris.

Chef Budi Kazali, whose cuisine has been featured in such notable publications as Food and Wine and The Wine Spectator, and is also well known for his local TV show, The Inn Crowd, has created a menu that features a large variety of creative shared plates and signature dishes highlighting local, seasonal produce and seafood.

“Our new restaurant’s menu is much more comprehensive than before,” shares Chris. “The concept of The Gathering Table has allowed Budi to be more creative with his food.” Adds Budi, “The food is flavorful, seasonal and unique and there’s truly something for everyone.”  

The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn, photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn, photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

 An artistic melding of Asian, French and California wine country cuisine, the new menu features a delicious selection of seasonal, locally sourced produce, seafood and meats. We sampled a wide array of dishes, all tasty. Particular favorites were Hamachi made with avocado and soy-yuzu vinaigrette; Sesame Caesar Salad; Hope Ranch Mussels with chorizo and garlic toast; Pork & Shrimp Shumai with ginger vinegar sauce and Marinated Hanger Steak with spicy charred Brussels sprouts.

“We look forward to sharing our space with our community in hopes we can offer a place for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy the bounty of the area. We’re happy that our renovations will further enhance Ballard Inn as an exceptional destination in Santa Barbara’s wine country,” says Budi.

Built in 1985, Ballard Inn is located t 2436 Baseline Ave. in the historic township of Ballard, just 35 minutes north of Santa Barbara near Solvang.  To learn more about Ballard Inn & The Gathering Table, please visit ballardinn.com.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on May 23, 2017. 

Cocktail Corner: Rose Soiree at Angel Oak

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Summer Somewhere Rosé, courtesy Bacara Resort & Spa.

Summer Somewhere Rosé, courtesy Bacara Resort & Spa.

A Spirited Toast to All Things Alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg  

Everything’s coming up roses at the Bacara on the long Memorial Day weekend when they kick off the summer with a Rosé Soiree, taking place on Monday, May 29 from 2-5 p.m. at the lovely Angel Oak restaurant. 

Held outdoors on Angel Oak’s stunning oceanfront patio, this rosé-centric afternoon includes live music, chef bites by Angel Oak’s acclaimed culinary team and more than ten rose wine and rosé champagne tastings.

Angel Oak at Bacara, courtesy photo.

Angel Oak at Bacara, courtesy photo.

Featured wines include:

Groundwork Rose, 2016 Grenache

Gruet NV Sparkling Rosé, New Mexico

Stolpman 2016 Para Maria Rose – 70% Cabernet, 30% Syrah

Stolpman 2016 Estate Rose – 100% Grenache

Summer Somewhere 2016 Grenache Rose

Timbre Rose, Pinot Noir 2016

Union Sacre Rose, 2016 “La Gitane” Pinot Noir

Verdad 2016 Grenache Rose

Larner Rose 2016

Angel Oak at Bacara, courtesy photo.

Angel Oak at Bacara, courtesy photo.

Additionally, Chef Vincent Lesage will offer a special take on Angel Oak’s highly awarded modern steak and seafood menu, including an heirloom tomato station, assorted antipasto, fresh oysters and ceviche, and more. 

Tickets are $60 per person (inclusive of tax & gratuity) can be purchased here: Tickets at AngelOakSB.com.

Hope to see you there. Cheers! Click here for more cocktail corner columns.

Leslie Dinaberg

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 on May 23, 2017.