Tag Archives: SB Seasons Magazine

Style File: Scintillating Scents to Suit Every Mood

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Miss Dior, courtesy photo.

Miss Dior, courtesy photo.

I know a lot of women swear by a signature scent, but for me fragrance is all about setting the mood. And my moods tend to, well, change—a lot!

Luckily there are always new perfumes to try out.

Absolutment Absinthe, courtesy photo.

Absolutment Absinthe, courtesy photo.

 

Here a few I’ve been enjoying recently.

Feeling sweet

Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet is a refreshing floral scent that pays homage to Christian Dior’s legendary passion for flowers. The “bouquet” includes notes of Peony, Damascus Rose, Calabrian Bergamot and White Musk.

Feeling fresh

Gucci Flora Glorious Mandarin, courtesy photo.

Gucci Flora Glorious Mandarin, courtesy photo.

Gucci Flora Glorious Mandarin is a light, young, fresh scent with notes of Mandarin, Pina Colada Accord, Jasmine, Creamy Wood, White Musk.

Feeling flexible

0.2 Fragrance, courtesy photo.

0.2 Fragrance, courtesy photo.

0.2 Fragrance is a unisex scent that features notes of Italian Bergamot, Spearmint, Neroli and Orange Blossom.

Feeling sophisticated

Velvet Orchid by Tom Ford is a powerful blend of Turkish rose, jasmine, magnolia and Cattleya leopoldii, balanced by notes of honey, rum, sandalwood, labdanum, and vanilla. A sexy scent perfect for summer nights.

Feeling frisky

Absolument Absinthe, inspired by the mythical liquor, is a fun foray into the forbidden. This complex scent pairs feminine amber and floral notes with

Viva La Juicy Rose, courtesy photo.

Viva La Juicy Rose, courtesy photo.

masculine vegetal and woody notes for a very unique perfume.

Velvet Orchid by Tom Ford, courtesy photo.

Velvet Orchid by Tom Ford, courtesy photo.

Feeling fun

Viva La Juicy Rosé is blinged-out girly bottle full of  fresh, fun scents that combine a bouquet of honey-like pink blossoms and the glow of sensual amber. Girls (of all ages) who just want to have fun, will certainly do so with this one!

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on June 14, 2016.

Summer Editor’s Pick: Music Academy of the West’s Summer Music Festival

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Jean-Yves Thibaudet, courtesy Music Academy of the West.

Jean-Yves Thibaudet, courtesy Music Academy of the West.

Music Academy of the West’s Summer Music Festival brings eight weeks of world-class classical music making to town Jun. 13–Aug. 6.

Highlights include recitals by pianist Jeremy Denk (Jul. 18, 21), flutist Emmanuel Pahud (Jul. 20), Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony conducted by New York Philharmonic Music Director Alan Gilbert (Jul. 16), a west coast opera premiere by Matthew Aucoin (Jun. 28), a new production of Smetana’s The Bartered Bride (Jul. 18), two community concerts starring superstar pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet (Jul. 2–3) and much, much more (musicacademy.org).

—Leslie Dinaberg

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2016 issue of Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine.

Cocktail Corner: South African Wine Safari

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Wines of South Africa Tasting and Master Class at Les Marchands. Photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

Wines of South Africa Tasting and Master Class at Les Marchands. Photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic!  By Leslie Dinaberg

Unfortunately, no passport was involved in my recent trip to South Africa’s wine country, but it was an exciting journey nonetheless.

Last weekend I had the good fortune to attend “South Africa in Santa Barbara Day” at Les Marchands, alongside a slew of our region’s top wine and food mavens. Boy was it eye-opening! Our charming host Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager for Wines of South Africa USA, took us on a lovely trek through his home terrain.

Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager for Wines of South Africa USA, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Jim Clarke, Marketing Manager for Wines of South Africa USA, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

We started our excursion as many great journeys begin, with some bubbly. In this case two sparkling wines: Noble Hill Method Cap Classique Blanc de Blancs 2011 (from the Simonsberg-Paarl appellation of origin, which has made some of South Africa’s finest wines dating back to the late 17th century) and Colmant Method Cap Classique Rose NV, from the Western Cape Region.

Clarke seeded our “master class” with interesting tidbits about the history of the region, as well as the terroir. South Africa’s wine growing areas, situated in the narrow viticultural zone of the southern hemisphere, have a mostly Mediterranean climate and the mountain slopes and valleys form the ideal habitat for wine grapes. Long, sun-drenched summers and mild, wet winters contribute to the ideal conditions for viticulture.

With the end of apartheid and the advent of democracy, South African wine industry exports have more than doubled between 2005 and 2015. According to the wosa.co.za, “the annual harvest in 2014 amounted to 1 519 708 tons (1 181.1 million liters), of which 81% was used for wine. … As far as international wine production is concerned, Italy leads with 17.7% of the total, France is second with 17.2%, Spain third with 13.3% and South Africa eighth with 4.1% (2015 figures).”

Just a few of the South African wines sampled, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Just a few of the South African wines sampled, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Of the 20 (!) wines we tasted, there truly wasn’t a dud in the bunch. Among the many standouts that made my tastebuds zing was the Luddite Chenin Blanc. According to Clarke, South Africa is home to the most Chenin Blanc (Steen) plantings in the world and is the most widely cultivated variety in the Cape. He described the wine as “a nice middle ground between Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay” and it, along with the Raats Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2013, and the Beaumont Chenin Blanc 2014, certainly pleased my palate.

Another highlight of the tasting was my first experience with Pinotage, a unique-to-South Africa cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut (Hermitage). The 2013 Painted Wolf Guillermo Pinotage we sampled was an intense, rich, fruity flavor that paired well with the braai (South African Barbecue) meats we had for lunch. Two Santa Barbara wineries with South African winemakers—Dieter Cronje of Presqu-ile and Ernst Storm of Storm Wines—were also on hand to pour their wines and provide entertaining commentary about their homeland.

All in all it was a delightful journey to South Africa, minus the jet lag (although I could have used a nap after all of that wine tasting)! South African wines are becoming more and more available at our local retailers, including Les Marchands Wine & Bar Merchant, 131 Anacapa St., 805/284-0380.

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 June 10, 2016.

 

Fiesta Ranchera

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Fiesta Ranchera, photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

Fiesta Ranchera, photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

Come celebrate Fiesta in June at the always fun Fiesta Ranchera party! Truly a great night out for locals, this is an awesome way to get into the spirit of Fiesta, Goleta style!

On June 16, Fiesta Ranchera opens the Fiesta summer season with the help of Old Spanish Days and the Goleta Valley Historical Society for an unforgettable night of food, fun and merriment. The event begins at 5 p.m. at the historic Rancho La Patera & Stow House, 304 N. Los Carneros Rd. in Goleta.

The beautiful gardens make this a perfect place for a night of pre-Fiesta fun that includes sampling of food from local restaurants, wines from award-winning local wineries, craft beer and signature drinks. Guitarist Tony Ybarra will play as the crowd mingles, followed by performances from the 2016 Spirit and Junior Spirit of Fiesta. Then dance the night away to the ever-favorite sounds of Area 51.

Fiesta dancers, photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

Fiesta dancers, photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

“We look forward to welcoming you for a rare opportunity to enjoy this lovely, historic landmark after the sun sets for a magical night at the Ranch,” says Amanda De Lucia, executive director of Goleta Valley Historical Society.

Restaurants and chefs to showcase their fabulous fare include Anna’s Bakery, Angel Oak at Bacara Resort & Spa, Catering Connection, Country Catering & Meat Market, Goodland Kitchen, McConnell’s Ice Cream, The Nugget, Pepe’s Mexican Food, Rincon Events, Trattoria Grappolo, Caffe Primo, On The Alley, Benchmark Eatery, Farmer Boy, High Sierra Bar & Grill, Woodstock’s Pizza, Woody’s BBQ and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Guests will sip wine by Alexander & Wayne, Arthur Earl, Bella Cavalli Vineyard, Sunstone, Windrun and Zaca Mesa, along with craft beer from Hollister Brewing Co., Enegren Brewing, Captain Fattys, Santa Maria Brewing, Telegraph Brewing and Knee Deep Brewing.

Fiesta photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

Fiesta photo by Fritz Olenberger, courtesy Old Spanish Days.

Tickets for the event are $65 and are now all inclusive (no more pesky drink tickets) and may be purchased online at http://www.sbfiesta.org. Tickets will also be available onsite for $80 at the door. Designated driver and group discounts are available, and guests must be 21 to enter. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Fiesta or ranch attire.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on June 9, 2016.

Style File: Mixed Chicks Hair Tricks

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I’ve got hair that’s a little bit curly, a little bit wavy, a little bit frizzy and even a little bit straight in places … so as you can imagine, finding the “just right” hair products can be kind of tricky.

Then I found  Mixed Chicks. This innovative haircare company describes itself as, “Finally, a curl-defining system for ‘us.’ Whether you’re black, white, asian, latin, mediterranean, or any glorious combination of the above, you’ll love the way these non-sticky, lightweight curly hair products leave your hair inviting to touch as they define and lock moisture into every curl. Be a proud part of our multiracial movement…’MIXED CHICKS’ your curls! And yes, it not only works on wavy, tightly curled or straight hair but it also works on weaves.”

I’ve tried a whole slew of Mixed Chicks products and one of my favorites is the Morning After Redefining Foam, which revitalizes your curls the day after you shampoo (or for several days after), leaving your hair feeling and looking healthy and radiant, as well as allowing for a few precious extra minutes of sleep in the morning! 

Courtesy photo.

Courtesy photo.

I also really liked the Shampoo, the Detangling Deep Conditioner and the Leave-In Conditioner. This product line is available locally at Skin Deep Salon (3405 State St., 805/687-9497), as well as online at http://www.mixedchicks.net/. Check it out, your curls will say thank you!

—Leslie Dinaberg

This story originally appeared in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on June 7, 2016.

Summer Editor’s Pick: Concerts at Santa Barbara Bowl

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Paul Simon performs at Santa Barbara Bowl Jun. 5, courtesy photo.

Paul Simon performs at Santa Barbara Bowl Jun. 5, courtesy photo.

We are lucky to have an amazing 4,562-seat outdoor amphitheater in our midst. There’s a special vibe that comes with concerts at Santa Barbara Bowl, perhaps because both the performers and the patrons are just so darn happy to be there. This summer’s concert line-up is especially stellar, including Paul Simon (Jun. 5), Bob Dylan (Jun. 11), Bonnie Raitt (Jul. 29) and Jackson Browne (Aug. 27), among many, many others (sbbowl.com).

—Leslie Dinaberg

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2016 issue of Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine.

 

Style File: Amarte Overnight Express Therapy

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Amarte Overnight Express Therapy is available at select retailers, courtesy http://www.amarteskincare.com/.

Amarte Overnight Express Therapy is available at select retailers, courtesy amarteskincare.com.

An Overnight Sleeping Mask to Make Your Skin Glow By Morning

You’ve gotta love a skin care product that works overnight when you’re asleep. I’ve written about the luxury Korean skin care brand Amarte before (I really, really like their products), and their Overnight Express Therapy does not disappoint.

You simply put it on just like lotion, after cleansing your skin, then it works overnight to moisturize while simultaneously absorbing oil and toxins.

The key ingredients are Silk Fibroin (Silk Extract) to help boost collagen, Propolis to heal blemishes and skin irritations, Nano-Encapsulated Retinol for improved absorption, efficacy and tolerability and Epidermal Growth Factor (Human-Ogliopeptide 1), which is small peptide that contains 53 amino acids to stimulate epidermal cell growth and reproduction overnight, which helps heal wounds, even tone and reduce pigmentation.

Don’t ask me how they work … but you wake up to renewed, supple skin you can feel right away. I like it and I think you will too!

—Leslie Dinaberg

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on May 31, 2016.

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.

 

Dream Foundation’s Flower Empower Luncheon Blooms With Goodwill

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Enjoying the Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon (L-R): Bryce Corcoran; Stefani Canin-Mullen, Dream Foundation Events & Special Projects Director; Karen Kerns; Colleen Barnett-Taylor, Rose Sponsor; Jennifer Darling; Alisa Hall; Renee Grubb and Natalie Campbell. Photo: Kiel Rucker Photography.

Enjoying the Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon (L-R): Bryce Corcoran; Stefani Canin-Mullen, Dream Foundation Events & Special Projects Director; Karen Kerns; Colleen Barnett-Taylor, Rose Sponsor; Jennifer Darling; Alisa Hall; Renee Grubb and Natalie Campbell. Photo: Kiel Rucker Photography.

Celebrating a beautiful cause in a beautiful place has become a yearly tradition for Dream Foundation’s Flower Empower Luncheon, and the 6th annual gathering at the Historic Bates Ranch House overlooking Rincon Point was certainly something special. More than 200 local community members gathered on May 19 to support the volunteers who assemble and deliver more than 150 fresh bouquets each week throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties.

The fête raises funds and acknowledges the volunteers, sponsors and growers who make Dream Foundation’s Flower Empower program possible and is always a joy to attend. Not only do guests make their own bouquets—which are delivered to hospitals, hospices, cancer centers, and personal residences later that week—this year we were also treated to tours of the of the historic Bates Ranch, which was originally part of a 1,200-acre Spanish land grant that included half of Rincon Point. Built in 1928, the charming, panoramic view ranch house is now available for vacation and event rentals.

Snippets of the historic Bates Ranch House and views, photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

Snippets of the historic Bates Ranch House and views, photos by Leslie Dinaberg.

The luncheon, emceed by long-time Dream Foundation supporter, Ivana Firestone (whose adorable daughter Anja was seated near me on the bus that took us from the beach parking to the ranch) and KEYT Channel 3’s Alan Rose, featured an exquisite ocean view, silent auction, a raffle that included a 7-day Holland America Line Caribbean cruise, excellent cuisine from Rincon Catering, and a lively fundraising activity that garnered $15,000 worth of generous donations in just five minutes.

Dream Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Kisa Heyer honored and awarded the 2016 Flower Empower program sponsors: Diane & Tim Brown, Lisa & George Hagerman, Nissrin Mahmoud & Bob Fuladi and Alison Wrigley Rusack & Geoffrey Rusack, whose donations will fund the program throughout the year. Also honored were Yoze Van Wingerden, Grower of the Year; Jan & Jay Anderson, Volunteers of the Year; and Delaney Werner, Youth Volunteer of the Year.

Dream Foundation's Valerie Banks gives flowers to Yoze Van Wingerden, 2016 Grower of the Year. Photo by Kelly Sweda Photography.

Dream Foundation’s Valerie Banks gives flowers to Yoze Van Wingerden, 2016 Grower of the Year. Photo by Kelly Sweda Photography.

“Flower Empower enriches our entire community,” Heyer says. “A gorgeous bouquet of fresh flowers, artisanal chocolates, homemade cookies and a thoughtful card can make an enormous difference to our neighbors in need. This simple gesture makes an incredible impact not only on those we serve but also to those who help make this program possible. There is nothing more amazing than a community coming together to help one another.”

Flower Empower is a volunteer-driven program that delivers hope and compassion—in the form of beautiful bouquets—to those in need. Groups of volunteers prepare dozens of arrangements using donated flowers and make deliveries to hospitals, hospices, cancer centers, and personal residences. In addition to abundant bouquets, flower recipients enjoy fresh-baked cookies, fine chocolates, and cards hand made by local school children. For more information or to refer a flower recipient, contact flowerempower@dreamfoundation.org.

Guests prepare bouquets at the Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Guests prepare bouquets at the Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon, photo by Leslie Dinaberg.

Dream Foundation is the only national dream-granting organization for terminally-ill adults. The organization fulfills final dreams that provide inspiration, comfort and closure at the end of life.  For more information, please visit DreamFoundation.org.

—Leslie Dinaberg

Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon by Kelly Sweda Photography.

Dream Foundation Flower Empower Luncheon by Kelly Sweda Photography.

Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons Magazine on May 24, 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.