Posts tagged with "winery"

On Tour: Israel

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In photo: Vaughn Lowery visits Israel.

While history, politics and religion are a few keywords that have become the main topic of conversation involving Israel, there’s another focus that the nation has geared up for – Israel tourism. Due to a major growth of cycling tourism in the country located in Western Asia, the government has recently invested 30 million dollars in promoting the national culture of biking.

Israel is now flowing with trails, tours and bike sharing programs, including the holiest “Biking the Path of Jesus” tours. We were recently able to grasp a taste of Israel tourism, starting off with the bike trails.

Chief mountain bike guide, Nimi Cohen, was the escort on a week-long unforgettable trek, experiencing the magic of Israel on two wheels. Originally from Israel, Cohen has been mountain biking for 20 years. Starting on the more extreme side of mountain biking in downhill and free-ride, after injury, Cohen is now a mountain and marathon racer; he is the epitome of expert.

To Cohen, life is about the Israeli single-track experience (single-track describes a narrow trail that is approximately the width of the bike). Cohen also runs a mountain biking school – named Mountain Goat, meaning to have incredible balance on the narrowest of paths – where he guides others through trips and clinics. (For more information, please visit HERE or contact Nimi Cohen directly at nimroditi@gmail.com.)

“The Judean Hills, the Negev desert, Ramon Crater, the Arava Plains, and Eilat mountains.” These areas are all locations rideable 365 days a year. During the Israeli winter and spring, between October and April, they offer a great opportunity for a full-day epic ride, when the rest of the world (and the center and north of Israel) is covered in mud and snow,” explains Cohen. “Not to be afraid of trying new s**t… new stuff, but to do it moderately and slowly,” he shares some advice to new riders. He also recommends that bikers “ride in different terrains, as diverse terrains as you can get. You will become a complete and a whole rider.”

Bike Trails in Israel

Old Jaffa – Perfect for a night ride when visiting Tel Aviv. Bike riders can enjoy the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to Old Jaffa.

Galilee – These trails connect to the Holy Land and a number of religious and historical sites. Tourists can enjoy magnificent views and some technical flowing single-track riding along the Sea of Galilee.

Mount Carmel – Coastal mountain range on the Mediterranean Sea, about 24 miles long.

Ayalon National Park (Canada Park) – Located in the Judean Plain, this is a more communal and popular trail. Expect to see many others enjoying this all mountain loop.

Adulam – Kanim – Single-track located in the Tuscany of Israel. This is a seemingly endless, smooth flowing trail about 25 minutes southwest of Jerusalem.

Old City Jerusalem – Another stunning trail to ride along at night time.Sugar Route – This is a 17-mile bike trail linking Jerusalem to Jerico.

Sde Boker – The Halukim Wadi single-track, this is the center for astonishing desert biking.Ramon Crater – A panoramic ride along the cliff of these geological phenomena.

Shayarot Cliffs – Beautiful, all-mountain technical ride, near the Arava Valley.

Timna Park – Manmade single-track ride at the site of the ancient copper mines, which is now a geological park.

Eilat Beach – Once a tiny kibbutz, Eilat is currently a center for tourism and bike riding. Trails surrounded by a view of poetic red mountains and deep blue sea. Tourists can find rough desert all-mountain and downhill trails starting high up and ending at sea level.

Located near the Arava Valley, Kibbutz Samar offers the unique and ultimate experience of sleeping and biking in the desert at a spot called Samar Bike. Kibbutz is a communal settlement in Israel, typically a farm. During the visit, we met one of the creators of Samar Bike, Yair Sela. “We want to live in a place that we live as we want to live,”he comments on being a part of Kibbutz Samar.

Along the way, we also met Faran Zeira, whose parents founded Neot Semadar 25 years ago when she was only two years old. Even though she was only a young girl, Zeira (born in Jerusalem) affirms that she chose to be a part of the kibbutz.

“Kibbutz is a kind of community of people choosing to leave the city together, sharing things less than having things to own privately. This kibbutz is a bit different, the main issue here is the interest of learning… learning how to share, how to live together. Learning how not to push things aside, but how to deal with them,” says Zeira. “You chose to be here, it’s family, 150 people living here. It’s really intimate. If people don’t have an interest, they don’t stay.”

Kibbutz living may be far from the Israeli city life, but one thing is certain: both share the passion of riding. Ross Belfer, an account supervisor at WEILL – a public relations and marketing company in travel and tourism – is a Tel Aviv local, who knows where all the cool spots are. Belfer shares his insider-look into the city life, “Tel Aviv is surely a city of the ‘now,’ with new bars, restaurants, galleries and creative hangout spots popping up at rapid speeds. The best means to explore Tel Aviv is through the perspective of a local who best knows the city, whether it’d be the top spot for late night bites or simply a quiet and serene look-out point in Jaffa, secluded from and unknown by tourists.”

When in Israel, why not experience thrilling Israeli city life while on two wheels? Another huge part of Israel tourism is its constantly adapting and evolving cuisine. For first-timers, Belfer suggests checking out Eager Tourist, a hyperlocal travel concierge which arranges tailor-made experiences in Tel Aviv within the realms of art, music, nightlife, architecture, bike routes and beyond.

Restaurants and Nightlife in Israel:

Cordelia Restaurant, Tel Aviv – Variety of detailed food items, menu developed by Chef Nir Zook. This spot is great for a late night dinner.

Yulia Restaurant, Tel Aviv – This seafood restaurant is perfect for lunch or dinner. With patio seating, the perfect spot for any occasion.

Chakra Restaurant, Jerusalem – Offers an authentic Mediterranean experience with menu items from land and sea. Claiming their most important ingredient to be ‘love.’

Pedro Restaurant, Eilat – Pedro has a small and intimate atmosphere and is famous for its high quality meats. Guests will be sure to feel like they are at home when dining in.

Port Sa’id, Tel Aviv – Vibrant, hip restaurant adjacent to the Big Synagogue on Allenby Street with innovative dishes by Chef Eyal Shani. This spot features local DJs spinning the restaurant’s collection of 1,000+ vinyl records.

HaHalutzim 3, Tel Aviv – Buzzed about gourmet restaurant, located within the Levinsky Market and the i rst of its kind in the neighborhood. Young Chef Eytan Vanunu cooks up eclectic dishes in his comfortable and quaint, internationally inspired restaurant. Dishes include pork-stuffed challah, polenta with veal and red wine reduction, lentil salad with yogurt chive dressing.

Yafo Creative, Tel Aviv – Yafo Creative is a boutique guest house and art hub in the heart of Jaffa. Locals and travelers can connect and collaborate during weekly Friday night dinners. Yafo is known for hosting performances by Israeli and international musicians and performance artists.

Anna Loulou, Tel Aviv – Hyperlocal dance bar on a side street in Jaffa. On Wednesday nights, dance to vintage Arabic music.

Pasaz, Tel Aviv – One of Tel Aviv’s hottest spots for local DJs and bands with a new artist performing each night.

Noga Complex, Tel Aviv -A quaint, village-like neighborhood on the cusp of the city’s Neve Tzedek neighborhood and Jaffa. The Williamsburg-esque Noga Complex is teaming with design and fashion boutiques by homegrown Israeli artists. Stroll along the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and enter several unique culinary and design focused conceptions.

Sarona Complex, Tel Aviv – The up-coming Sarona complex will soon stand as Tel Aviv’s newest art, culture and design hot spots. A formally uninhabited neighborhood boasting 19th century Templar buildings, the Sarona complex will feature art galleries, museums, fashion and design shops.

Friday Sunset Drum Circle behind the Dolphinarium, Tel Aviv – One of Ross Belfer’s favorites. Bring a drum along or just show up with beer or wine and dance to the rhythms as the sun sets.

Dvir Gallery, Tel Aviv – One of the city’s most renowned art galleries, showcasing local talent with two different locations.

Amphorae Winery, Tel Aviv – One of the most beautiful wineries in Israel. Although the winery isn’t set in the midst of its vineyards, it is set amidst organic farms in the area.

Srigim Brewery – Enjoy different beers at a tasting at the Srigim Brewery. They offer 7,000 different kinds of beers and are famous for their IPA. There is a 10-minute ascent in the Masada-ruins of King Herod’s mountain-top fortress. Tourists can ascend from the west to the east via cable car. The Snake Path is also still open for tourists wishing to use this ancient trail. Another tourist favorite is a must-do, dip in the Dead Sea. Israel also offers some of the most gorgeous and sought-out lodging experiences in the world.

Hotels in Israel:

Herods Hotel, Tel Aviv – This ive star hotel is located in the heart of the city along the coastline of the exquisite Mediterranean Sea. Herods captures a historical style in a modern day atmosphere.

Leonardo Plaza, Jerusalem – Nothing but the inest. Another ive star hotel, Leonardo Plaza offers breathtaking views of both old and new Jerusalem.

Hod Hamidbar Hotel, Dead Sea – Famous for being the lowest point on earth, the Hod Hamidbar hotel is located on the northern side of the Ein Bokek region, on the Dead Sea.

Beresheet Hotel, Mitzpe Ramon – Located on the edge of the Ramon Crater (a natural phenomenon), this desert hotel manages to have comfortable and cooler weather all year long. Guests come irst at this ive star hotel with unbelievably spectacular views throughout the entire property. This hotel truly is a gem in the middle of the desert.

Samar Bike, Kibbutz Samar – Built by riders for riders.

King Solomon Hotel, Eilat – Surrounded by sea and mountains, King Solomon Hotel is perfect for fun activities or just plain ole’ relaxation.

Carlton Hotel, Tel Aviv – A fabulous resting spot after a long bike ride. Relax and take in a beach-front view.

iBike, Mitzpe Ramon – An active boutique hotel, giving guests personal attention and special care for excitement, welfare, and enjoyment.

Dolphin Reef Spa, Eilat – Located on the shores of the Red Sea, this reef area gives visitors a chance to observe and swim with a group of bottle-nose dolphins in their natural habitat. Relax at the spa or hang with the dolphins and enjoy the view.

Eden House Boutique Hotel, Tel Aviv – This classical twelve-room property is located right in the middle between Tel Aviv’s vibrant Carmel Market and Mediterranean promenade. The modern day bed-and-breakfast spot has nothing on this place.

Traveling to Israel has never been easier than now. El Al Israel Airlines offers non-stop lights to Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv), Israel’s main international airport. The location is convenient to go anywhere in Tel Aviv and start the adventure. The Israel Ministry of Tourism website is a great way to keep up with what’s happening, or be sure to check out 360 calendar listing for Tel Aviv (coming soon).

“It’s amazing…like NYC and Miami had a baby,” 360 Magazine President Vaughn Lowery concludes with excitement on our recent press tour to Tel Aviv. “I’ve never seen anything like it. Tel Aviv is a major untapped NYC type of place [with] so many young cool entrepreneurs.”

Article: Jillian Sutton

The Society: State and Mason

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Hotel Californian debuts a new signature tasting room, The Society: State & Mason, deepening its culinary imprint on Santa Barbara’s trendsetting Funk Zone neighborhood. Marking the first major transformation at Hotel Californian since being acquired by Foley Entertainment Group (FEG) in late 2021, the intimate tasting room celebrates the intersection between world-class wines, exquisite cuisine, and immersive, memorable travel experiences.

Occupying a prime corner on State Street that formerly housed the hotel’s chic Isla boutique, The Society: State & Mason caters to traveling oenophiles and local wine enthusiasts looking to enjoy a day of exploration along Santa Barbara‘s Urban Wine Trail.

While relaxing in the chic indoor/outdoor space, guests can sip a rotating selection of wines from across the Foley Family Wines portfolio and opt for thoughtfully curated pairings of shareable bites from Hotel Californian’s Executive Chef Travis Watson. “Our family’s deep roots in Santa Barbara inspired us to purchase Hotel Californian for the unique opportunity to continue investing in the city’s rich history and wine culture, and we are thrilled to introduce our new tasting room, The Society: State & Mason,” said Foley Entertainment Group Chairman Bill Foley. “This vibrant space allows us to showcase not only our Santa Barbara wineries but also the range of the Foley Family Wines portfolio and creates a communal gathering place for anyone looking to celebrate their love of food, wine, and travel.”

“Foley Entertainment Group promised impactful changes when they purchased this beloved hotel, and The Society: State & Mason is only the first exciting step among many that we are developing to enhance the guest experience,” said Managing Director Warren Nocon. “We are humbled and grateful to be locally owned, working alongside the esteemed Foley family and FEG team to further cement Central California as a world-class culinary destination.”

Hotel Californian’s iconoclastic spirit echoes throughout the new tasting room, infusing the indulgence of a luxurious seaside vacation with untamed Santa Barbara spirit to create a new kind of social hub for the city. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air concept, the space evokes a sense of community with palpable energy felt from the nearby Funk Zone. Now open Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., The Society: State & Mason will continuously roll out new programming to include wine education classes, winemaker dinners, exclusive events, and more.

A snapshot of what visitors can expect includes:

Tasting Flights & Bites

Guests seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of Santa Barbara’s iconic State Street can drop into The Society: State & Mason for a selection of shareable plates, wines by the glass, and two distinctly designed wine tasting experiences. The pre-set “Taste of Wine Country” flight comprises a selection of esteemed wines from across the Foley Family Wines portfolio. This experience, priced at $35 per person, includes samples from Russian River Valley, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Ynez Valley, and Alexander Valley.

The “Riviera Reserve” pairing is a 90-minute sensory journey featuring a rotating selection of wine from across the Foley Family Wines portfolio, complemented by bites from Chef Watson. With only two seatings available per day in a private room for the Riviera Reserve experience, reservations are recommended. Priced at $100 per person, this evolving flight currently includes pairings such as a Two Sisters Chardonnay with a Smoked Salmon Rillette and a Kuleto Syrah paired alongside a Smoked Bresaola with Tender Arugula, Manchego Cheese and Black Cherry Gastrique.

A Home for the Foley Food & Wine Society

The Society: State & Mason will serve as a central social space for The Foley Food and Wine Society,

which provides a gateway to an array of travel and entertainment experiences spanning the globe. Through The Foley Food & Wine Society loyalty rewards program, which is complimentary to join, patrons earn points on all purchases made at The Society: State & Mason, which can be redeemed towards travel, wine, tasting experiences, and more. Those who desire additional benefits and exclusivity can level up to a Connoisseurs Club membership, which includes regular shipments of premium Foley Family Wines, and unlocks additional perks and benefits at Hotel Californian and Foley Family winery properties.

Travel Like a Connoisseur Package Fit for Wine Aficionados

The storied Hotel Californian invites sophisticated sojourners to indulge in its new offerings through the Travel Like a Connoisseur Package. Offering honorary membership to the Foley Family Wines Connoisseurs Club for the duration of a guest’s stay, the package includes a complimentary member tasting at The Society: State & Mason; 20 percent off purchases at all hotel venues; member discounts on wine purchases; and complimentary member tastings at Foley Estates, Lincourt Vineyards, and Firestone Vineyards, all of which are located within one hour from the hotel. Situated 90 minutes from Los Angeles, 20 minutes from the Santa Barbara Airport, and one block from the Amtrak station, Hotel Californian is ideally situated for travelers seeking an iconoclastic getaway. Reservations for The Society’s seated tastings can now be made on Tock or by calling the hotel directly. More information on The Foley Food & Wine Society and Foley Family Wines can be found HERE.

About Hotel Californian 

Owned and operated by the Foley Entertainment Group, Hotel Californian continues to redefine luxury in the celebrated American Riviera. The 121-room boutique hotel is a magnet for the Hollywood elite, international visitors, and locals alike. Featuring dazzling spaces from celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the iconoclastic enclave–part history, part imagination, all Californian–continues to drive the revitalization of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone while upending conventional expectations. Hotel Californian is Santa Barbara’s urban luxury resort destination. For more information, please click HERE.

Sam Nelson Harris × Villa Creek Cellars

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X Ambassadors’ lead singer/songwriter Sam Nelson Harris will be performing an intimate set at Villa Creek Cellars | MAHA Estate in Paso Robles, CA on May 14, 2022. Produced by 88 Vines Entertainment and sponsored by FlyWithWine, the early evening event will include a live acoustic performance by Harris, a wine reception, an artist meet and greet, and farm-to-table supper with celebrated chef Clark Staub of Full of Life Flatbread. Tickets for the new date will be on sale February 28^th HERE and HERE.

This special event will take place rain or shine at the winery tasting room and the beautiful garden area surrounded by vineyards. Transportation to the event from downtown Paso Robles will be available, as will valet parking at the winery. A portion of the proceeds will benefit MUST! Charities.

About Sam Nelson Harris

Sam Nelson Harris is the lead singer/songwriter for multi-platinum selling rock band X Ambassadors who made their full-length debut with VHS, a 2015 release that saw the band transition from Ithaca alt-rockers and Brooklyn-indie-scene outsiders to Billboard stalwarts. Now certified platinum, VHS provided an intimate look at Harris and his brother Casey Harris’s youth, delivering the genre-defying hits “Unsteady” and “Renegades” and leading to a three-year global touring odyssey as well as a string of high-profile festival performances. VHS was followed by X Ambassadors’ 2019 sophomore album ORION, which they supported with an extensive headline tour of the U.S. New songs “Adrenaline,” “Okay,” and “My Own Monster,” from their recently released third studio album, The Beautiful Liar, marked the start of a compelling new lyrical direction for X Ambassadors and is the first new music from the band since their hyper-creative multi-part project (Eg). A three-song effort released in early 2021, (Eg) found the band collaborating with a series of similarly forward-thinking artists, including Earl St. Clair, Terrell Hines, and Jensen McRae. The (Eg) project was a natural progression for the highly collaborative band, whose output includes producing and writing for global superstars like Rihanna and working extensively with Lizzo on her massively successful 2019 album Cuz I Love You (including co-writing and producing tracks like “Jerome,” winner of Best Traditional R&B Performance at the 62nd Annual GRAMMY® Awards).

About Villa Creek Winery/MAHA Estate

Villa Creek Winery was founded by Cris and JoAnn Cherry in 2001 and has since played an important role in the growth of the Paso Robles wine industry. They are a leader in organic and regenerative farming and are passionate about presenting wines that are a genuine reflection of the vineyards they represent. Their estate vineyard and namesake wine brand, MAHA, is comprised of the best barrels from their organic and biodynamic vineyard, while Villa Creek Wines represent Paso Robles best west side organically farmed vineyards. Their newest brand, Cherry House, brings wine made with organic grapes with a more approachable price point to the wholesale market.

South Beach Festival

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The 21st annual Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival was held Thursday, February 24, as produced by Capital One (SOBEWFF®). Hosted at the Continuum’s The Patio restaurant, guests indulged the highest quality cuisine with breathtaking oceanfront views.

The event saw the likes of The Food Network’s ‘Chopped’ judges Amanda Freitag and Marc Murphy. Collaborating with The Patio’s Executive Chef Claudio Lobina, the chefs worked together to contribute to the official Intimate Dinner Series. Guests were treated to a prestigious four-course dinner menu sporting international delights made by some of the most renowned chefs in the business.

While in attendance, the festival sported live music from the Frost School of Music during the pre-dinner reception before the extravagant dinner began. ‘Chopped’ co-stars Amanda Freitag and Marc Murphy greeted guests with a speech and detailing on their menu for the night. Valentina Abbona from Marchesi di Barolo winery, too, explained the rich history of wines that were served on the night of the festival. The Patio’s Chef Claudio Lobina topped off the night by serving the final course.

Managing Director of the Continuum Rishi Idnani spoke about the esteemed event, stating, “Our third year of participation during this year’s South Beach Wine & Food Festival proved to be an extraordinary evening of culinary brilliance for guests at The Patio. This sensational collaboration between Amanda Freitag, Marc Murphy and our very own Chef Claudio Lobina, gave our residents and attendees a world class experience in gastronomic indulgence.

“It was tremendous to see the highlight on our property’s social calendar mark the beginning of life resuming back to its normal splendor here in South Florida. On behalf of the entire Continuum management team, I would like to thank the festival’s organizing committee, together with the sponsors and our patrons for helping to make this third dinner installment a resounding success.”

Amongst the divine menu that was curated in collaboration with all three chefs was: Mini Lamb Meatballs with Pistachio Pesto and Labne; Prosciutto, Gruyere and Basil Pinwheels; Sicilian Risotto Acquarello; Baked Feta with Shredded Phyllo and Apricot-lime Coulis, Za’atar Honey and Chili Oil; Seared Sea scallops served over Leek and Parmesan Risotto, and Milano Roasted Duck served with a Saffron Cream and Orange Coulis. Chocolate Mousse Parfait was presented as dessert for guests. Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits provided various international wines throughout the course of the night as well.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival event photos via World Red Eye for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Celebrity Happy Hour

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HALL, WALT, and BACA Wines, a set of three, family-owned wineries located in Napa and Sonoma Counties, have announced the launch of another season of their celebrity Happy Hour series. The series rotates airing on three different social media platforms including Instagram and Facebook Live weekly on one of the respective brand channels. The Happy Hour series premiered on April 2, 2020, with over 200 shows produced through December 2021.

“During the start of the pandemic in the Spring of 2020, we looked at different creative ways to keep our audiences engaged and keep wine conversations top of mind,” says Vintner Jennifer Brown.

“Launching Season one of the series and really honing in on the lifestyle of wine with each of our guests allowed us to connect in new and compelling ways—our Club Members and fans sipped along with our show hosts and the guest, and it truly felt like we are all enjoying a casual Happy Hour experience together. The 2022 Season will continue to focus on producing dynamic and engaging shows that let our audience into our guests’ lives, ask questions in real time, and hear about new projects that each is working on.”

Created by Vintner Kathryn Walt Hall and produced in-house, Happy Hour gives viewers an unscripted, behind-the-scenes peek into the lives of celebrities, artists, athletes, comedians, Broadway stars, authors, magicians, and more. Each episode aims to inspire creative conversations while sipping on a newly released HALL, WALT, or BACA wine.

Guests joining the show in the 2022 Happy Hour line-up include Jimmy Kimmel, HGTV’s Christina Haack, Futurist Jason Silva, Grammy Award-winning Opera Singer Isabel Leonard, Emmy Award winner Shohreh Aghdashloo, and more. Past Happy Hour show guests include Tina Fey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Martin Short, Ed O’Neill, Catherine O’Hara, John Leguizamo, Eric McCormack, Busy Phillip, Monique Lhuillier, Paul Reiser, Cole Hauser, Cheryl Hines, Natalie Morales, Steve Wozniak, The Brothers Osborne, Sara Evans, CAM, Scotty McCreery, Matt Bomer, J.B. Smoove, Bruce Bochy, Cecily Strong, Chris Redd, and many more. To view an archive of HALL Family Wines Happy Hour series, please visit happy hour show archive.

The Vines – Wine Club for Billionaires

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As the world continues to adapt to the pandemic, many people are looking for new travel memberships and elite experiences to indulge in–luckily the answer for these individuals is two simple words: The Vines. The Vines is an exclusive explorer’s club and the first worldwide community dedicated to winemaking. Members have the opportunity to travel to the world’s most coveted wine regions and learn the art of winemaking with master practitioners, and even create their unique blends. However, memberships for The Vines are by invitation only.

For background, in 2005, Michael Evans founded the luxury resort and private vineyard, The Vines of Mendoza, in Argentina. After many years of running the successful resort and having visitors from around the world, Michael decided to develop a sister project: a membership-only program with one goal, get people to know the world by making wine. Michael launched The Vines membership club in early 2020 and it has now evolved globally. The club has outposts and partners in seven regions around the world, including Champagne, Mendoza, Montalcino, Napa Valley, Priorat, The Mosel, and Willamette Valley, and they continue to expand beyond.

In addition to traveling the world, members of The Vines are sent cases of wine throughout the year and are offered access to curated events centered around wine, food, culture and adventure. Over the course of the next five years, The Vines plans to offer winemaking in 12 different regions, as well as expand beyond winemaking, offering members a series of pop-ups like making Sake in Japan and Mezcal in Mexico.

The initiation fees are $100,000 and annual dues are $1,500- $3,000 per quarter. Winemaking costs per barrel range from $7,000 to $37,000 based on site. The initial application questionnaire can be found HERE.

Ferraro’s Taste & Learn Event

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FERRARO’S ANNOUNCES TASTE & LEARN EVENT SEPT. 18 FEATURING LE FALEZZE WINERY

Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar invites guests to experience the next Taste & Learn on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. featuring the wines of Valpolicella, Italy’s Le Falezze. Taste & Learn is Ferraro’s popular, monthly wine-tasting and education event that provides illuminating wine education along with a menu of expertly prepared, authentic Italian small plates crafted by Chef Mimmo Ferraro.

Every Taste & Learn offers a tour through Italy’s most esteemed wineries, and Le Falezze is a family-run company in Valpolicella, Italy with three generations of winemaking tradition. September’s event will allow guests to explore the wines of its centuries-old vineyards, which embody a family history cultivating the Earth with devotion.

We are always excited to teach our guests about Italian wines and look forward to our monthly Taste & Learn events, said Gino Ferraro, owner of Ferraro’s. With Chef Mimmo’s thoughtful pairings, it’s not only an incredible wine education experience, but also a wonderful culinary one.

The full menu of wine and food pairings follows:

Lugana Selva Capuzzo

Risotto Pescatore

Vialone Nano risotto, clams, lobster, scallops, calamari, shrimp, light tomato

Falezze, Valpolicella Superiore

Gnocchi di ricotta con ragù di anatra

Ricotta gnocchi with duck ragù

Falezze, Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore

Coniglio all Cacciatore

Rabbit braised in tomato sauce, bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, carrots and fresh herbs

Falezze, Amarone della Valpolicella

Torta di Cioccolato Fondente

Dark chocolate cake with red wine glaze

Tickets for the all-inclusive experience are $90 and space is limited. To make reservations, please call (702) 364-5300.

ABOUT FERRARO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

Founded in 1985, Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar is Las Vegas’ longest running, family-owned and operated restaurant offering authentic, five-star Italian cuisine in a fine-dining atmosphere. Specializing in freshly made pastas and sauces, legendary osso buco, savory risottos, expertly prepared all-natural meats, Safe Harbor® seafood, as well as an extensive award-winning wine list, Ferraro’s is famous for its attention to detail, welcoming environment and passion for food that runs in the family. The Ferraro family members devote themselves to ensuring each guest has a memorable experience, whether for lunch, dinner, late-night or private parties and events. Ferraro’s is open for dinner from 5 to 11 p.m., Monday through Thursday and Sunday and from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Ferraro’s is located at 4480 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89169 (across the street from Virgin Hotels Las Vegas). For reservations, call (702) 364-5300.

Follow Ferraro’s via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Bricoleur Vineyards Gains Award-Winning Chefs

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James Beard Award-Winning Chefs Charlie Palmer and Nate Appleman Partner with Bricoleur Vineyards as Culinary Advisors

The winery’s first joint event with Chef Palmer is Project Zin on August 21st, which is already sold out

Bricoleur Vineyards is excited to announce that James Beard Award-winning chefs Charlie Palmer and Nate Appleman are joining the Bricoleur Vineyards team as Culinary Advisors. The winery’s first join event with Chef Palmer will be Project Zin, a sold out fundraiser for Down Syndrome Association North Bay, at Bricoleur Vineyards on August 21st.

We couldn’t be more thrilled. Our family has long admired Chef Palmer and Chef Appleman’s talent, said Bricoleur Vineyards’ co-founder Mark Hanson. Our culinary team already creates amazing wine & food experiences for our guests, which will be enhanced by working with Chef Palmer and Chef Appleman. A mutual friend introduced us, and we really connected with Chef Palmer and Chef Appleman on our shared values of supporting philanthropy, our local community, and great wine and food. We’re excited to add their expertise and collaborative enthusiasm to our team.

Bricoleur Vineyards opened in the Sonoma County town of Windsor, just south of Healdsburg, last spring in the midst of the pandemic and in a short time has already earned recognition from San Francisco Bay Area press as the region’s Best New Emerging Winery and Most Romantic Winery. A 40-acre picturesque destination with 21 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards that have produced critically acclaimed, award-winning wines, the sustainably farmed estate also features expansive culinary gardens, fruit trees, olive groves, chickens, and honeybees.

Chef Palmer brings his signature Progressive American Cooking to Bricoleur Vineyards and will team up with the estate’s culinary team on menu creation and concept to further elevate the winery’s already robust offerings. With 13 acclaimed restaurants and rooftop bars across the United States, Palmer has chosen Sonoma County as his home, designing wine-forward tasting menus for Bricoleur Vineyards that emphasize the fresh, seasonal produce grown on the estate, reflecting the bounty of the land that Palmer knows so well.

I’m excited to work with the team at Bricoleur Vineyards as Culinary Advisor, said Palmer. A close friend brought me to the estate for a tasting earlier this year and I was impressed with their tasting menus and the way their wines pair so beautifully with dishes made from their estate-grown fruits and vegetables. I cannot wait to collaborate further on wine and food experiences and events in the future.

In keeping with their shared devotion to philanthropy and supporting the local community, Chef Palmer is excited to host the 11th Annual Project Zin event at Bricoleur Vineyards on August 21, 2021. Project Zin is a celebratory event hosted by Winemaker Clay Mauritson and Chef Palmer that benefits Down Syndrome Association North Bay. Palmer and Mauritson launched Project Zin in 2012, and the annual event has raised over $1,000,000 for DSANB. This year’s event is sold out, but to learn more about Project Zin and Down Syndrome Association North Bay, please visit their website.

At Bricoleur Vineyards, we’re all about celebrating life’s moments with wine and food, while supporting charities across the country and here at home, added Bricoleur Vineyards’ co-founder Sarah Hanson Citron. Bricoleur Vineyards is a beautiful place to gather, where social connections are fostered, and communities are built. Chef Palmer and Chef Appleman share our enthusiasm for bringing people together and we’re excited to welcome them to our team.

Bricoleur Vineyards is open Thursday – Monday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. by appointment only and reservations can be made by visiting their website or by calling 707-857-5700. Bricoleur Vineyards is close to the Santa Rosa airport, which accommodates both commercial and private planes, and it’s only an hour north of San Francisco. Bricoleur Vineyards is located at 7394 Starr Road in Windsor, California and can be found on Instagram.

Here is a link that includes photos of Chef Palmer, Chef Appleman, Mark Hanson, Sarah Hanson Citron, and beauty shots of Bricoleur Vineyards.

About Bricoleur Vineyards

Bricoleur Vineyards, which launched its first vintage in 2017 and opened its tasting room in 2020, is tucked away in Sonoma’s Russian River Valley – just south of Healdsburg. Founded by the Hanson family, Bricoleur Vineyards can be found at the end of a winding road in the charming, bucolic town of Windsor, only an hour north of San Francisco – and very close to the Santa Rosa airport. The distinctive name, Bricoleur, is French for one who starts building something with no clear plan, adding bits here and there, cobbling together a whole while flying by the seat of their pants.

The Bricoleur Vineyards estate produces two families of critically-acclaimed, award-winning wines – Bricoleur and Flying by the Seat of Our Pants. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé of Pinot Noir and Zinfandel are crafted under the Bricoleur label, while Rosé of Grenache and Brut are produced under the humorous, irreverent Flying by the Seat of Our Pants label. The wines are crafted by veteran Winemaker Cary Gott and Assistant Winemaker Tom Pierson.

In addition to Bricoleur Vineyards, the Hanson family also owns Kick Ranch Vineyard in Sonoma County’s Fountaingrove District AVA. The Hanson family’s roots run deep in Sonoma County. Mark Hanson was born in Santa Rosa, and Beth Wall Hanson’s great grandfather, Pietro Carlo Rossi, was the original oenologist for Sonoma County’s historic Italian Swiss Colony. Rossi revolutionized California winemaking in the 19th century and under his direction, the Italian Swiss Colony became one of America’s leading wineries.

Murphy-Goode Winery Welcomes Two New Employees

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After Receiving over 7,000 Inspiring Applications, the Sonoma County Winery Hires Two Top Candidates to Pursue Their Wine Industry Dream Jobs

Murphy-Goode, the Sonoma County winery that launched “A Really Goode Job” nationwide job search in March 2021, is pleased to announce that Lindsay Perry in Austin, TX and Veronica Hebbard in Orlando, FL have been selected as the newest employees of Murphy-Goode and are the winners of A Really Goode Job. They will begin their dream job journeys at Murphy-Goode on Sept. 1, 2021, shadowing winemaker Dave Ready, Jr. before moving into separate roles that align with their respective interests and expertise. Each will receive a $10,000 salary per month, live rent-free in Healdsburg for a year, and will enjoy a year’s supply of Murphy-Goode wine.

Over the course of this nationwide job search, Murphy-Goode received over 7,000 creative and inspiring applications from around the world. In July, the winery selected the top 17 finalists and welcomed them to Healdsburg for in-person interviews and wine country exploration. Throughout the week, candidates had the opportunity to meet with Murphy-Goode winemaker Dave Ready, Jr., as well as other Murphy-Goode employees and fellow “A Really Goode Job” candidates.

Murphy-Goode looks forward to welcoming Lindsay and Veronica to the team and working closely with them to make their wine industry dream jobs a reality. Throughout the application process, both candidates stood out due to their passion for wine, creativity, humor, and drive. “When we started out on this journey, we cast the net wide to find candidates with unique experiences and points of view,” said winemaker Dave Ready, Jr. “I’m looking forward to working with Lindsay and Veronica this harvest, but also learning from each of them, and seeing what new ideas they will bring to the job.”

Lindsay Perry is a Yardley, Pennsylvania native, but currently lives in Austin, Texas, working in sports marketing. Lindsay received scholarships to complete her WSET Level I & II through Wine Unify and the Roots Fund in 2020 and 2021 respectively, and she is looking to add her diverse voice to the ever-changing climate of the wine world. “Working for Murphy-Goode Winery will present a unique challenge and represent a big pivot in my life. I’ll be jumping into the wine industry in the best way possible. Having the opportunity to shadow Dave, learn to make wine, and grow professionally through this year of exploration, will change the trajectory of my life,” Perry said. View Lindsay’s application video here.

Veronica Hebbard, originally from Montgomery, New York, will be making her way to Sonoma by way of Orlando, Florida. She currently works as an engineer in the themed entertainment industry. As an engineer by trade, Veronica is most excited about being immersed in the science of winemaking and exploring sustainability and innovation initiatives. “When the opportunity presented itself, I thought it was the most interesting way to make wine approachable for people who weren’t already in the industry. Joining Murphy-Goode will provide me the opportunity to navigate and harness this energy and passion and steer it into where my role might be in the wine industry,” Hebbard said. View Veronica’s application video here.

First launched in 2009, “A Really Goode Job” became a revolutionary campaign to create a real job opportunity in the wine industry at a time of economic distress and high unemployment. Today, as the country faces a new set of challenges, creating access and viable career opportunities is more important than ever. Murphy-Goode cast the net wide and launched the job search to find candidates from across the country who want to follow their passion and land their dream job in the wine industry.

To follow along on Lindsay and Veronica’s journey, follow Murphy-Goode on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About Murphy-Goode Winery

Welcome to the Goode life. Founded in Sonoma County in 1985 in a spirit of love and friendship by Tim Murphy, Dale Goode, and Dave Ready Sr., Sonoma County’s own Murphy-Goode Winery crafts some of

California’s best wines without taking itself too seriously. The story lives on today under the Jackson Family Wines portfolio, continuing a tradition based on a shared appreciation of friendship, hard work, a wicked sense of humor, and, of course, a good bottle of wine. Murphy-Goode offers high-quality wines from some of California’s great growing regions with the approachable and inviting attitude of Sonoma County. Murphy-Goode is never pretentious, is often irreverent, and is about having fun. Because of its consistent quality, the brand has become a favorite wine for consumers everywhere. For more information, www.MurphyGoodeWinery.com, and follow Murphy-Goode on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

ADAMVS Winery Welcomes Alberto Bianchi as Winemaker

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Bianchi Will Steward the Estate Vineyard and Winery Towards Vintners’ Old-World

Vision to be a Grand Cru of Napa Valley’s Howell Mountain

Denise Adams, co-owner of ADAMVS, a profound and geologically diverse Estate vineyard resting atop the legendary Howell Mountain, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Alberto Bianchi as Winemaker. The Adams are also proprietor/vintners of Château Fonplégade, a Grand Cru Classé Château and vineyard in St. Émilion, Bordeaux.

Bianchi was selected by ADAMVS owners, Denise and Stephen Adams, following an extensive, months-long search for a winemaker who would not only steward ADAMVS wines in the cellar, but rear them from the moment of their inception in the vineyard, working closely alongside Consulting Winemaker, Philippe Melka.

“During our extensive recruitment process for a new winemaker, we knew this special individual would have to share our passion for purity, balance, and a near-obsessive approach to careful and responsible farming,” said Denise Adams. “We knew he or she would have to speak our language; one of total commitment to wines of integrity, place, purpose and emotion. Alberto Bianchi was a perfect match for our philosophy and vision.”

Raised in Milan, Italy, Bianchi’s passion for the vine and wine began at the age of seven, while helping his grandfather craft Barbera wine in his cellar, wine that the family enjoyed throughout the year. It is not just the act of winemaking that has always been of interest to Bianchi, it’s also the “romantic and heroic” nature of viticulture in extreme sites that has ignited the passion and commitment to wine that drives him today. He believes that the vineyard is the heartbeat of a winery.

“I’m greatly honored to join the ADAMVS team. The first time I visited the property I felt an instant connection,” said Bianchi. “Wine is a synonym for culture: it is the pure expression of the land, the soil, the climate and the people. It’s with great pleasure that I start this amazing journey on Howell Mountain.”

Bianchi holds a bachelor’s degree in Winemaking and Viticulture from the University of Milan and a double master’s degree in Winemaking and Viticulture from the University of Turin and the University of Lisbon. After completing his studies, Bianchi travelled extensively throughout Italy, France, Australia, Argentina and New Zealand, experiencing a variety of cultures and characters and winemaking techniques with the different grape varieties, and honing his craft.

In 2012, Bianchi was selected for LVMH’s Estates & Wines Early Career Winemakers program, where three up-and-coming winemakers are sent to three countries for three years of intensive training and development. He began in Argentina, as Assistant Winemaker at Terrazas de los Andes, followed by a year at Newton Vineyard on Spring Mountain, Napa, before his final rotation at Cloudy Bay in New Zealand, where winemaker, Tim Heath, became a mentor. “He taught me the importance of being respectful of the wine you have in front of you,” Bianchi said.

Upon completion of this three-year program, Bianchi returned to Newton in 2016 as Head of Winemaking. Today, Bianchi possesses the same boyish wonder that he felt as a child assisting his grandparents in Italy. His quest is to translate the beauty, nature and elements of ADAMVS’ profound and geologically diverse site into elegant wines that will evolve through time.

ADAMVS offers private tastings and experiences by advance appointment to allocation list members. For more information, and to join the waitlist, please visit the official website.