Life's Adventures
Stuart Smith moved to Napa Valley in the 1970s and eventually founded Smith-Madrone Winery. They are sustainably farming the 200-acre ranch with 38 acres planted with grapes such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Continue Reading →
Fin de California (End of California) is a new restaurant in Tijuana that combines the best of both sides of the border. I was a guest of the restaurant with a group of media people to experience the restaurant and the amazing food of Chef Sergio Chavez and his amazing kitchen crew. Continue Reading →
Now that we’re coming out of our respective bubbles and getting back to life- it’s time to look at some fun summer wines. Did someone say bubbles? Prosecco? How about a few rosés also? Continue Reading →
One short generation ago, Charlie Barra’s parents immigrated to the USA from Piedmont, Italy. is father worked on the family vineyards in Italy and when they arrived in California, they were able to acquire their own vineyards. When Charlie was born he had inherited his father’s passion for the vine. He worked side by side with his father, Antonio, starting at age 10. In 1945 when he was a junior in high school Charlie leased his own land and started his own vineyards. By 1955 he purchased 175 acres at the headwaters of the Russian River. Continue Reading →
What is Sotol? Sotol is a wild-harvested plant in western Texas, with a flavor of the land. It is a spirit that has flavors of sweet citrus and herbs. The flavor is of gin crossed with smooth sipping tequila Continue Reading →