Hanzell Vineyards - Sonoma, California
The home of the oldest Chardonnay vines in California, Hanzell Vineyards was founded by James David Zellerbach (later a United States Ambassador to Italy) who acquired 200 acres in the Mayacamas Mountains in 1943 and began planting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in 1953.
To see my review of Hanzell Vineyards and pictures check out California Wine Tasting Adventures:
Roth Estate Wines
Last year we had the winemaker for Lancaster and Roth Winery in the store, Jesse Katz was in town for a tasting and both he along with his wines were both very impressive. As a boy traveling with his well known wine country photographer father, Andy, winemaker Jesse Katz was exposed at an early age to the most famous wine regions on earth. While his father was taking photographs and creating books in Burgundy or Tuscany, the seed was being planted. Later, as a young man working summers in the vineyards and winery lab while attending Fresno State University in California it wasn't long before Jesse had his Enology Degree with a minor in chemistry. After honing his craft in Napa and Argentina, Jesse was recruited from cult producer Screaming Eagle in 2010 and quickly established that he understood how to build on the tradition of excellence that has defined Lancaster Estate from the very first vintage. Working with legendary winemakers like Andy Ericson, Paul Hobbs, Hans Vinding-Diers and Robert Foley shortcuts the process of absorbing a lifetime of winemaking insights. Working in an array of climates and countries brings added depth. With dust on his boots, Jesse has quickly learned what the estate vineyards promise.
California Sparkling WInes
Local Northern California Masters of Wine have joined forces with the Napa Valley Wine Academy to highlight local wines, wineries and industry businesses in these difficult times.
Armed with a love of wines from Northern California, willing palates and expertise, Napa locals Mary Margaret McCamic MW, Peter Marks MW, Matthew Deller MW, and other MW colleagues are offering educational video vignettes featuring wines from Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, and more as well as discussions with local businesses about their wine selections.
These short video segments are offered free of charge and are geared toward wine lovers and wine students alike. Masters are donating their time and expertise while also sourcing the wines from local businesses. Their hope is to use the rich history and wine culture of the area raise awareness and support for those in the Northern California area affected by these devastating wildfires.
We encourage those who view the videos to donate to Napa Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund. Other donation options are listed at the bottom of each video should viewers want to help other causes.
Hamel Family Wines
For the Hamels, the goal was simple: create a family business built for the long term. Through a blend of passion, respect for the land and a commitment to quality winemaking, each family member is involved and contributes meaningfully. Guests who visit Hamel Family Wines experience a celebration of the senses, from the estate house design and sweeping vineyard views to the warm hospitality and artisan wines. It’s not unlike First Republic’s thoughtful approach to banking, which attracts clients who value a high level of service and attention to detail. This shared ethos is the foundation of a long-standing client relationship.
Field Stone Winery in Alexander Valley Producing Petite Sirah From Vines Planted in 1894
Field Stone Winery in Alexander Valley, California produces small lot, world class wines from their 50 acre estate with a portion of the vineyard growing Petite Sirah that was planted in 1894. Three Generations Strong, their cave like facility was built after the first generation, Wally Johnson (and former Mayor of Berkeley, California) utilized the cut and cover technique to build the Bart system in the city of Berkeley. Field Stone Winery became one of the first wineries built into a hillside! Other wines including Chardonnay, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Rose of Petite Sirah and Port are also produced.
Stylish Brick Georgian Estate in Leesburg, Virginia
Presented by Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty
For more information go to
New paint, freshly refinished hardwood floors and new carpet in basement apartment. Please see updated photos and video
This stylish brick Georgian estate is nestled on a desirable 4.55-acre cul-de-sac location in Beacon Hill. Named after the Triple Crown winner Whirlaway, this nearly 12,000 square foot property is truly a rare find. Welcome your guests into the grand two-story marble foyer, with chandelier, dual staircases and custom murals. Entice them onto the deck for mint juleps which overlooks the expansive manicured grounds complete with historic bank barn and silo. Prepare a gourmet meal in the chef’s kitchen with high-end appliances, custom cabinets, granite countertops and huge walk-in pantry that opens to a spacious two-story family room with wood-burning fireplace and custom built-in cabinetry. Relax and enjoy an after dinner vintage port in the Linenfold paneled library, or perhaps a game of pool in the lower level recreation room and custom bar. Your overnight guests can easily be accommodated in the additional upper-level four bedrooms with en-suite baths, or in the private lower-level “in-law” suite. Retire for the evening in your grand first-floor master suite that features a sitting area, fireplace with marble surround, two large walk-in closets, and a luxurious master bath with soaking tub and large glass shower. This lovely home reflects the personality and taste of those accustomed to the best in quality design, finishes and lifestyle. This home is clearly in the winner’s circle!
Property ID: 3DNCST
Ladera Vineyards with Karen and Tres
Created on November 10, 2009 using FlipShare.
Bottling the Twins
Winery guests got a insiders view of what only happens twice a year at Lancaster Estate. After a 30 day cold stabilization period, the 2011 Samantha's Sauvignon Blanc and 2010 Sophia's Hillside Cuvee were ready to be bottled. The mobile bottling truck pulled onto the crushpad, connected the tanks we had staged the wine in and began the process of filling, corking, sealing and labeling. A few short hours later, all the wine was tucked safely away in the cellar awaiting release.
Livestream of Wine Committees Hearing This Friday
(Healdsburg, CA) - The California Wine industry is responsible for 90% of the wine produced in the U.S. and generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity every year. With recent fires and drought, steps must be taken to ensure that the wine industry is prepared for disaster. Watch live as Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, @CaliforniaWines, @CAWGs, vintners and panelists discuss wildfire recovery, water storage and the future of the California wine industry. The joint hearing of the California State Assembly and Senate Select Committees on Wine hearing is being held at Healdsburg City Hall on Friday, April 6th beginning at 10am.