SANTA ROSA, CA and ST. PETERSBURG., FL (May 15, 2019) – Hugh Reimers, President of Foley Family Wines (FFW) and John Koko, President of American Freedom Distillery, announced today a strategic marketing and distribution alliance for the award-winning Horse Soldier® Bourbon brand.  During the last 18 months, American Freedom Distillery’s Horse Soldier® Bourbon has become one of the fastest growing bourbon brands in the U.S. and was just named Florida Distillery of the Year. The brand also holds both East and West Coast awards, receiving Double Gold Medals for its Commander Select and Straight Bourbon in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, along with a Gold Medal for its Small Batch Bourbon in the New York International Spirits Competition.

The strategic alliance between American Freedom Distillery, a producer of artisanal spirits, and FFW, the owner of, and agent for, a portfolio of craft spirits, leverages the strengths of both organizations.  FFW will lend marketing and promotion expertise while the dedicated sales organization and wholesaler network will be responsible for further expanding the AFD portfolio in markets across the U.S. 

Hugh Reimers, President of Foley Family Wines stated: “American Freedom Distillery has had tremendous success with Horse Soldier® Bourbon due to the exceptional quality of each product.  However, once consumers truly understand the American history the American Freedom Distillery team personally lived and the fact that every bottle of Horse Soldier® Bourbon is made in molds from Ground Zero steel donated by the port authority of NYC, consumer affinity and loyalty of Horse Soldier® Bourbon will only continue to grow.”    

John Koko, President of American Freedom Distillery stated: “Bill Foley’s love of this country, service to his country, and history of winning makes FFW a perfect fit for the Special Forces veterans who started American Freedom Distillery. Moreover, Bill Foley’s dedication to national charities and giving back to his community is one of our core values and this partnership will create an even bigger impact for both American Freedom Distillery and FFW.”

Bill Foley, Founder and CEO of FFW stated: “Upon meeting John and the American Freedom Distillery team, I was immediately impressed with their passion and dedication to their craft.  My days at the United States Military Academy at West Point taught me the importance of teamwork, dedication, culture and authenticity. The American Freedom Distillery story is not a story at all.  It is real and remains an important part of American history.  Forming a strategic alliance with American Freedom Distillery is a natural fit and will greatly benefit both organizations.”

To learn more about American Freedom Distillery, visit www.americanfreedomdistillery.com 

To learn more about Foley Family Wines, visit www.foleyfoodandwinesociety.com

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About Foley Family Wines

Foley Family Wines was established by Bill Foley in 1996 with the acquisition of Lincourt Vineyards in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. Since then, Foley Family Wines has grown to become a top producer, marketer and distributor of highly-acclaimed, handmade wines and spirits.  Every brand in the company’s portfolio is distinct and autonomous with its own identity, style, techniques and personnel. Foley Family Wines owns the following winery properties: Foley Sonoma (Geyserville, CA), Chalone Vineyards (Monterey, CA), Foley Estates (Sta. Rita Hills, CA), Lincourt Vineyards (Solvang, CA), Merus (Napa Valley, CA), Foley Johnson (Napa Valley, CA), Kuleto (Napa Valley, CA), Altvs (Napa, CA), Chalk Hill (Sonoma County, CA), Sebastiani (Sonoma County, CA), Banshee Wines (Sonoma, CA), Rickshaw Wines, Lancaster Estate (Sonoma County, CA), Langtry Estate (Lake County, CA), Three Rivers Winery (Walla Walla, WA), Firestone Vineyard (Santa Ynez Valley, CA), Eos (Paso Robles, CA), Roth Estate (Sonoma County, CA), The Four Graces (Dundee, OR), Vavasour (Marlborough, New Zealand), Clifford Bay (Marlborough, New Zealand), Grove Mill (Marlborough, New Zealand), Martinborough Vineyard (Martinborough, New Zealand) and Te Kairanga (Martinborough, New Zealand). Bill Foley is the majority owner of National Hockey League team, the Vegas Golden Knights (Las Vegas, NV). He also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for Fidelity National Inc. and Vice Chairman of Fidelity National Information Services. Both are Fortune 500 companies. 

About American Freedom Distillery

American Freedom Distillery is a St. Petersburg, Florida-based craft distillery of American-made, premium spirits, founded by U.S. Special Forces veterans whose story was told in the 2018 Hollywood movie 12 Strong. The Horse Soldier® Bourbon signature bourbon bottles are pressed in molds made from World Trade Center steel, salvaged from the site after the events of September 11, 2001. An on-site, chef-driven boutique restaurant and bar, America Neat, will open within the experiential distillery in 2019.

Winemaker Giovani “Gio” Verdejo grew up in Napa Valley in a family of wine lovers – so it’s only fitting that his winemaking career brought him full circle as he heads the team at Rutherford’s Foley Johnson. Learn more about his experience in this installment of Winemaker Q&A. 

WHAT DREW YOU TO THE WINE INDUSTRY? AT WHAT POINT DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO GET INTO WINEMAKING, AND WHAT ABOUT THE PROFESSION INTERESTED YOU?  

I grew up in a family of wine drinkers and was exposed to it at a very young age; I honestly can’t remember the first time I tried my first wine. My family worked for years for Clos du Val, so wine has always been part of my life since always.

When I was in high school, I helped to bottle at Regusci Winery for a summer and it was then when I realized I wanted to stay in the wine industry. The passion all winemakers have about wines is what really interested me the most about the industry.

YOU STARTED YOUR CAREER AT KULETO ESTATE, ANOTHER FOLEY FAMILY WINES PROPERTY. WHAT ROLE DID YOU HAVE THERE WHEN YOU STARTED? 

I started at Kuleto doing construction; I laid all the sheetrock in the tasting room and upstairs Royal Suite, along with some carpentry as well. It was then when I met Dave Lattin and he offered me a cellar job. I took it and my first task was sterilizing barrels and tanks. 

YOU’VE SPENT TIME AT OTHER FFW PROPERTIES AS WELL (MERUS, LANGTRY). ANY BIG DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THEM FROM A WINEMAKING PERSPECTIVE? ANY SIMILARITIES? 

I think there’s a lot of similarities in the fact that we have always tried to make the best wine possible with what we had. Merus, being one of the best Napa Cabernets, took a lot of attention to detail and constantly doing barrel tastings; we try to reach that same level of excellence here at Foley Johnson as well. Langtry was unique in that we hand-crafted the small Langtry label but also had the large Guenoc California label, where consistency was key. 

HOW DO YOU FEEL BEING BACK IN NAPA VALLEY WITH FOLEY JOHNSON? 

I’m in cloud nine! My goal as a winemaker was always to make high-end Napa Valley wine. I’m also honored to continue Pat Foley’s path on making FJ a premium Rutherford winery.

WHAT’S THE TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR A WINEMAKER?

There’s no such thing as a typical day in a small winery. One day I may be doing office work and I could be tasting barrels or working in the cellar the next. 

WHAT’S A COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR ROLE? 

That all we do is taste wine. There’s a lot more office work than anyone imagines!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WORKING AT FOLEY JOHNSON?

It’s hard to point to just one thing – I love the wines, the people I work with, the vineyards, and the location. Pretty much everything about this place. 

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE FOLEY JOHNSON WINE CURRENTLY? 

I love Meritage. I’ve always been a big fan of blends as there’s almost no limit on what you can do to make an amazing wine.

IS THERE AN UPCOMING FJ WINE THAT YOU’RE EXCITED ABOUT RELEASING? 

Cabernet Franc! It’s beautiful and unique and 2017 will be the debut vintage.

From auto shows to outdoor concerts, there’s an event for everyone this weekend in wine country. Take a look at some of our favorites below. 

NAPA COUNTY

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT VISTA COLLINA RESORT

Friday, May 17th, 4PM – 7PM
Vista Collina Resort | 850 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA

Welcome the weekend with fabulous food truck fare, cocktail specials and live music on the Village Lawn at Vista Collina Resort. The Village Truck rolls up to the pop-up bar each Friday from 4PM – 6PM offering Chef Vincent Lesage’s signature bites such as Fried Chicken + Waffles, Brisket Nachos and Kimchi Tacos. While you’re there, stop by the Foley Food & Wine Society Tasting Room and grab a glass of your favorite Foley Family wine! 

ROLLED, STUFFED, AND DEVOURED 

Sunday, May 18th, 10AM – 1PM 
Napa Valley College Upper Valley Campus | 1088 College Ave, Saint Helena, CA

Love street food from across the globe but can’t find out how to make them in your own kitchen? This hands-on cooking class may be just what you need. Chef Elena Sirignano will guide guests through step-by-step instructions on how to make Japanese Hand Rolls, Cornish Pasty, and crepes – complete with generous samples of all dishes. Pre-registration is required. 

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, May 17th, 6PM – 9PM
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA 

The Poyntlyss Sistars are taking the stage at this Friday’s Friday Night Music Series held at Sonoma’s historic Sebastiani Vineyards. While music fills the tasting room, guests are welcome to bring a picnic dinner or snacks to enjoy inside or out in the courtyard. Children and well-behaved pets are welcome to this family-friendly event – free and no RSVP required! 

125TH ANNUAL LUTHER BURBANK ROSE PARADE AND FESTIVAL

Saturday, May 18th, 9AM
Downtown Santa Rosa | Santa Rosa, CA

A time-honored tradition in Sonoma County and one of the oldest and largest continuously occurring events in Northern California, the Luther Burbank Rose Parade and Festival celebrates its 125th year! Award-winning floats, marching groups, non-profit organizations, and school bands will fill the streets with themed entries. After the parade, the fun continues with a festival in Downtown Santa Rosa. Enjoy family fun activities, music, and a variety of food booths.

SPRING RELEASE PARTY AT LANCASTER ESTATE

Sunday, May 19th, 2PM – 5PM 
Lancaster Estate | 15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

You’re invited to spend a laid back Sunday afternoon on the Lancaster Estate patio celebrating the springtime release of their 2018 Samantha’s Sauvignon Blanc, 2016 Reserve Malbec, and 2016 Reserve Cabernet Franc. Enjoy light bites, live music, and tastes of their most exclusive wines. Reserve your tickets and don’t miss out on this lovely Lancaster tradition.
 

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

LINCOURT FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES 

Friday, May 17th, 6PM – 9PM
Lincourt Vineyards | 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos, CA

Grab your blanket and picnic basket and head to the charming Lincourt Vineyards for an evening of wine, sunshine, and music! Local favorites Dusty Jugz will be providing the tunes while guests enjoy the stunning vineyard views and delicious wines. 

6TH ANNUAL AIRPORT DAY

Saturday, May 18th, 10AM – 4PM
Santa Ynez Airport | Santa Ynez, CA

Get up close and personal with airplanes like never before! Watch dozens of aircraft on display with pilots who can explain general aviation and their experiences flying. Children ages 8 – 17 are treated to free airplane rides – plus complimentary admission, parking, BBQ, and more. 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

WAITSBURG CLASSIC AUTO SHOW CELEBRATION DAYS

Saturday May 18th, 10AM – 3PM 
Downtown Waitsburg | Waitsburg, WA

The classic auto show takes over Waitsburg for the three-day event that celebrates all things automotive. Over 20 categories will be represented along with a carnival, door prizes, a ATV historic sunset cruise, and so much more. Tickets can be purchased online.

Sebastiani took gold on three different wines at The Press Democrat North Coast Wine Challenge, going against over 1,000 wine entries from 200+ wineries from California’s North Coast.

The annual blind tasting competition brings 28 wine experts from across the country to Sonoma County Fairgrounds to sip and judge wines across a variety of categories and varietals.

The three Sebastiani wines that stood out to this year’s panel included:

SEBASTIANI 2016 ALEXANDER VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Judges remarked that the wine was “jammy, concentrated” with “great tannins” while giving it an impressive 95 point score along with a gold medal. This vintage is a deep ruby red in color with elegant aromas of dried cranberries, bergamot tea and vanilla wafer. Sebastiani winemaker David Nakaji notes that “while appealing in its youth, this wine will age wonderfully over the next few years.” 

SEBASTIANI 2016 NORTH COAST MERLOT

The 2016 North Coast Merlot earned a gold medal and 91 points, with judges noting the silky texture, fresh fruit, and “nice mineral finish.” This bright, fruit forward and complex wine has a medium to full bodied palate with flavors of black plum, cranberries, and a hint of chocolate. 

SEBASTIANI 2016 NORTH COAST ZINFANDEL

Awarded with 94 points and a gold medal, the 2016 North Coast Zinfandel dazzled with its “mouth-watering acidity.”  Focused aromas of cherry and white pepper make up the bold, fruit forward nose on this wine, with the notes carrying through to the palate where juicy favors of raspberry, blackberry, and plum reveal new layers with each sip.

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Sebastiani Wins 3X Gold! Society Members Earn 3X Points!
To celebrate, The Foley Food & Wine Society is awarding members triple points for every dollar they spend on purchases of all Sebastiani wines at retail or restaurant locations, this Tuesday (May 14) through Sunday (May 19). Members must submit their receipts from purchases made of Sebastiani wines through The Foley Food & Wine Society app to earn triple the points for the total spent on Foley Family Wines. This offer is limited to purchases made from 12:01am Tuesday, May 14, through 11:59pm Sunday, May 19. Purchases made before and after this window will continue to earn members one point for every dollar spent on Foley Family Wines.

It’s hard to put into words the role that moms play in our lives. This year, give her something she’ll love for Mother’s Day: a bottle of one of these great wines and quality time with you either at home or at the tasting room! 

THREE RIVERS WINERY 2018 ESTATE CABERNET FRANC ROSÉ

Take a trip to Oregon’s booming wine country and visit Three Rivers Winery, located in the lovely town of Walla Walla. Have Mom sample their 2018 Estate Cabernet Franc Rosé, currently one of six wines on their tasting menu. Watermelon, orange blossom and strawberry aromas lead into a clean crisp palate of wild strawberry and a finish of bright floral and fruit. Can’t make it to the tasting room? It’s also available online! 

FOLEY SONOMA 2018 ROSÉ OF PINOT NOIR

Foley Sonoma uses a Pinot Noir from their Trenton Vineyard and blend with Grenache to get an extraordinary wine; it’s a perfect balance of progressive acid, with a clean finish of summer berries, that tends to be enjoyed by all palates. It doesn’t hurt that the label is beautiful and feminine, making it perfect for gifting! 

CHALK HILL ESTATE 2015 CLARA’S VINEYARD RED

Rosé is certainly not your only option for Mother’s Day.  Soft tannins make it very approachable, and the palate is big and vibrant with a comforting touch of TLC second only to moms.

THE FOUR GRACES 2017 PINOT GRIS

If your mom has a zest for life, consider picking up a bottle as lively as she is! This 2017 Pinot Gris is refreshing with beautiful bright aromas of ripe pineapple, Meyer lemon and honeysuckle flower. Enjoy a bottle while hanging out at The Four Graces‘ picturesque winery among its historical farmhouse and barn.

LINCOURT CAROL ANN CHARDONNAY AND LINCOURT ZOULA NUNN CHARDONNAY 

These are a two-for-one bonus pick. Why? Because they are full of meaning to Foley Family wines, as they are named after two matriarchs of the Foley family; Carol is the mother of Lindsay and Courtney Foley and Zoula Nunn is Bill’s mother. 

It’s the first weekend of May and spring is in full swing. In between the great weather forecasts, Cinco de Mayo holiday and general wine country fun, there is really no excuse to stay inside and sink into your couch this weekend. As always, there are a ton of events happening around wine country – but if you’re having trouble picking which ones to add to your calendar, take a look at our top five favorites. 

ROTH ADULTS AT PLAY

Friday, May 3rd, 5PM – 7PM
Roth Winery | 0309 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

If you’re looking for the perfect way to wind down from a long work week and get your weekend started on the right foot, this is the event for you. Held on the first Fridays of the summer months, Roth Winery’s Adults at Play series is a local favorite that features the ultimate line-up of live music, small bites, and outdoor games. It’s always complimentary to attend and fun is highly encouraged. 

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, May 3rd, 6PM – 9PM 
Sebastiani Vineyard | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA

It’s that time of year again… the Sebastiani Friday Night Music Series is back! This wildly popular event draws in crowds all summer long as Sebastiani opens up their courtyard each Friday night throughout the summer for live music from the best local bands Northern California has to offer. Attendees are invited to to enjoy the tunes while enjoying packed picnic dinner or snacks, paired with Sebastiani wines available for purchase. The event is free and family-friendly.

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

Saturday, May 4th, 12:30PM 
Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch | 738 Main Street, St. Helena, CA

Cheer on this year’s contenders of the 145th Run for the Roses at Long Meadow Ranch! The venue will have big screen viewing, Southern eats & drinks for purchase, and a betting pool for charity. 

FILM FEST PETALUMA

Saturday, May 4th, 12PM
Mystic Theatre | 23 Petaluma Blvd. N., Petaluma, CA

If you’d rather spend your weekend indoors, Film Fest Petaluma is a great option. The event returns with its 11th annual showcase of short films at the historic Mystic Theatre in downtown Petaluma, featuring  a broad mix of programs including animated, live action, and documentary shorts. All sessions will host international filmmakers in conversation alongside several Sonoma County students. 

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION AT FIRESTONE

Sunday, May 5th, 2PM – 5PM 
Firestone Vineyards | 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos, CA

Who says you can only celebrate Cinco de Mayo with tequlia and beer? Firestone is bringing the festivities to the vineyard with their Spring Release Celebration. Try out their newest wines while noshing on delicious street tacos from the taco bar. 

When visiting Sonoma County’s beautiful wine country, most of your time should be spent at the wineries – not in a car.

While the region has no shortage of picturesque properties along its winding roads, they typically include acres of vineyards, small towns, and other developments in between. Getting from property to property can include longer-than-expected drives, which cut into precious time in the tasting room.

If you’re looking to spend more time in the wineries and less time on the road, consider the Taste of Chalk Hill Road experience. Chalk Hill Road is home to some of the most stunning, untouched wine destinations in all of Sonoma County, and Taste of Chalk Hill Road allows you to explore three of Foley Food & Wine Society’s highly acclaimed family-owned wineries all in one day.

For $115 per person, guests will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful properties of Chalk Hill Estate, Roth Estate, and Foley Sonoma, savor in signature tastings at all three, and enjoy an exquisite picnic lunch.

Here’s what you can expect as you venture down Chalk Hill Road:

FOLEY SONOMA SALON TASTING

The adventure begins at one of the most architecturally stunning wineries in Alexander Valley, our flagship property, Foley Sonoma, where the beautiful vineyards & countryside surrounding the Estate inspire their vision & creativity. Enjoy a flight of equally stunning wines while taking in the picturesque Mayacama mountain range.

ROTH ESTATE RESERVE TASTING WITH PICNIC LUNCH

Continue the journey at Roth Estate, a winery committed to crafting exceptional quality wines grown in the best of the Alexander Valley AVA and Sonoma Coast AVA. The low-vigor, volcanic-based soil shapes Cabernet  Sauvignon and Merlot wines of intensity, depth and concentration. Taking advantage of those volcanic soils Roth boasts a beautiful wine cave to explore along with an outside seating area where your group can enjoy your picnic lunch handcrafted by our Estate Culinary Team.  

CHALK HILL ESTATE TASTING

Long considered a Sonoma County icon, Chalk Hill Estate is synonymous with exceptional winemaking, born as much by word-of-mouth reputation as its consistent 90+ critic scores.  This absolutely stunning 1300-acre property features 300+ acres of vineyards, plus an addition 1,000 acres in wilderness areas, winery, hospitality center, organic culinary gardens, residences, stables, Olympic-sized equestrian pavilion, sports fields, fishing and swimming ponds, and guest houses. 

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The Taste of Chalk Hill Road experience is available by appointment only for $115 per person. To make reservations, please contact 707-657-4859 or experiences@chalkhill.com.

From the Pacific Northwest down to Santa Barbara County, there are a ton of great events happening throughout wine country this weekend! Take a look at some of our favorites listed below and pencil in your plans now. 

NAPA COUNTY

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT VISTA COLLINA RESORT

Friday, April 26th, 4PM – 7PM
Vista Collina Resort | 850 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA

Welcome the weekend with fabulous food truck fare, cocktail specials and live music on the Village Lawn at Vista Collina Resort. The Village Truck rolls up to the pop-up bar each Friday from 4PM – 6PM offering Chef Vincent Lesage’s signature bites such as Fried Chicken + Waffles, Brisket Nachos and Kimchi Tacos. While you’re there, stop by the Foley Food & Wine Society Tasting Room and grab a glass of your favorite Foley Family wine! 

LAWN HOUR SATURDAYS AT THE VILLAGE FOOD & WINE CENTER

Saturday, April 27th, 4PM – 7PM 
Vista Collina Resort | 850 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA

It”s a busy weekend at Vista Collina! If you don’t get enough of the stunning property after Food Truck Friday, come back on Saturday for Lawn Hour on the expansive outdoor space. This unique Wine Country experience features a pop-up bar, drink specials and live music  from 4PM to 6PM  – and, if you’re up for it, keep the festivities going with wine and beer tastings at one of the nine tasting rooms (including the Foley Food & Wine Society Tasting Room!), open until 7PM.

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

Sunday, April 28th, 9AM – 4PM 
Oxbow Commons | 1268 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559

Celebrate Earth Day with the Environmental Education Coalition of Napa County and make a difference in this planet’s wellbeing! Music, entertainment, and activities for all ages will be provided along with delicious local food, wine, and beer. Over 75 organizations and vendors will provide information about green products, services, our local environment, and how you can get involved locally to make a difference for the Earth!
 

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SSU SYMPHONIC CHORUS AND CONCERT CHOIR

Friday, April 26th, 7:30PM
SSU, Green Music Center | 1801 E. Cotati Avene, Ronhert Park, CA 94928

Sonoma State University’s Spring Choral Concert, led by 2019 CMEA (California Music Educators Association) Bay Section Outstanding Choral Educator Award winner Dr. Jenny Bent, will be held this weekend offering attendees a chance to “span the Renaissance through the present day” with the musical production.  “Spiritual and/or secular love and peace, as well as forces that may challenge faith in either, unite [the] program selections,” remarks Dr. Bent. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased online. 

BUTTER AND EGG DAYS PARADE AND FESTIVAL

Saturday, April 27th, 10AM – 5PM 
Historic Downtown Petaluma | Petaluma, CA

Brimming with authentic small town pride, Petaluma’s Butter and Egg Days Parade pays tribute to Petaluma’s place in history as the “World’s Egg Basket” and the community’s rich agricultural heritage. Festivities begun with a parade through the historic downtown, followed by a festival of fun and activities.  This year’s theme is “It’s Always Punny in Petaluma – Celebrating all that is udder-ly egg-ceptional in Sonoma County and Clo the Cow’s 50th Birthday.” More information can be found on the event website. 

ROTH WINE CLUB SPRING PICKUP PARTY

Sunday, April 28th, 2PM – 5PM 
Roth Estate | 10309 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

Roth wine club members and guests are invited to the property to taste the new releases, pick up their selections, and enjoy live music and tasty small bites. The event will include prizes to win and lots of Roth hospitality to share! Wine club members receive four free tickets, with additional available for purchase; general admission is $20.
 

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

FOUNDING DAY FESTIVAL

Saturday, April 27th, 12PM – 4PM
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park | Santa Barbara, CA

Commemorate 237 years of history at the birthplace of Santa Barbara, El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Celebrate the history of Santa Barbara at the Founding Day Festival, featuring Presidio Neighborhood businesses and local entertainment in the heart of downtown. Enjoy a costumed reenactment of the original Founding Ceremony held in 1782 and other family activities across the Presidio grounds at this free event!

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

TASTIEST TACO 2019

April 12 – May 5
Various Locations | Walla Walla, WA and Surrounding Counties

This is “nacho” average fundraiser! United Way of Walla Walla County has partnered with 20 restaurants and food trucks in Walla Walla and other local communities to bring you the “Tastiest Taco” Contest. Purchase a stamp book and receive one free taco at each of 20 local participating vendors – and then be sure to vote for your favorites! Learn more about the event and purchase your stamp book on the event page. 

Kenny Koda is a seasoned veteran in the wine industry, with experience including ten years as wine director and sommelier at Harmon’s Restaurant in Telluride, CO. He earned his Advanced Sommelier certificate from The Court of Master Sommeliers and continues to study, hoping to achieve the master level.  

Today, Kenny is the Senior Hospitality Manager for multiple Foley Family Wines properties in Napa Valley, including the esteemed Kuleto Estate. He shares with us some of the most unique features of Kuleto, including the notorious drive, stunning views, and acclaimed wines. 

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AN UNFORGETTABLE HILLTOP ESTATE

One of the greatest perks of being a member of The Foley Food & Wine Society is the opportunity to visit all of the great properties in California, Washington, and Oregon. One of the most unique – if not the most unique – is Kuleto Estate.

Kuleto Estate was the vision of famous restaurateur Pat Kuleto, who is known for his highly-designed restaurants with a careful attention to detail. From the underwater themed Fallaron to the perfect Belle Epoch themed Brassiere Boulevard, these restaurants are works of art – and Kuleto Estate winery is no exception.

Located high above Napa Valley in the eastern Vaca Mountain range, Kuleto Estate is only minutes from Silverado trail but it seems worlds away. As you wind up Highway 128 past beautiful Lake Hennessey for just over six miles, you’ll arrive at an imposing gate. This gate is closed and you have to radio up to the winery to receive an “all clear” signal to proceed. First time visitors often wonder why this is necessary – but it only takes a few hundred feet to realize why.

Ahead is a narrow one-lane road, which for many is more intimidating than it is challenging; it’s wider than it appears with many areas to pull over if you meet another vehicle on your trek up the mountain. As you continue to drive the nearly two mile road, you’ll ascend over 1,000 feet until you reach the foot of Kuleto Estate. Do this drive once and you will understand why this is a by appointment only experience and can book up months in advance in the busy season!

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the physical beauty of both the natural setting and the detailed winery and its buildings. Kuleto Estate the essence of rugged good looks and back-country sophistication, with a dramatic property that reflects an intricate patchwork of steeply wooded hillsides interspersed with vineyards that have been divided into 100+ micro-blocks based upon topography and geology.

Not to be out-done by the scenery, the real star of the show are the property’s amazing and unique wines. Kuleto produces thirteen different wines, and often half are being poured at each estate tasting. 

The estate vineyards fill every compass point and have many different exposures, resulting in a variety of micro-climates that allow us to grow a variety of different grapes. From cool-climate Chardonnay and Sangiovese to warm-climate Syrah and five different single sourced Cabernet Sauvignons, we have something for every palate and some of the most age-worthy wines in the entire Foley Family Wines portfolio. 

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KULETO WINE RECOMMENDATIONS

We hope that you’ll have a chance to visit us at Kuleto Estate in person soon, but understand that this isn’t always the case. If you’d like to try the best Kuleto from the comfort of your own home, try one of these great hand-picked wines showcasing the best that Kuleto has to offer:

2014 KULETO ESTATE “HOMESTEAD” CHARDONNAY

This is not the oaky, butter Chardonnay-lovers wine! This is from a 1,800’ elevation and is much cooler than a lot of areas where Chardonnay is grown. As a result, only 20% of the Chardonnay sees malolactic fermentation and is aged in mainly neutral oak leading to an acid-driven wine that focuses on wonderful apple/pear/citrus fruit flavors. This makes this Chardonnay a perfect food wine, especially with vegetables and seafood.

2015 KULETO SANGIOVESE

My personal favorite! Like the Homestead Block Chardonnay, this wine does not see much new oak (actually no new oak; it is aged in large used Hungarian Oak barrels). This wine is focused on the great tart red fruit flavors and marched with surprisingly rich smooth tannins for such a delicate wine. My favorite food wine in all of Foley Food & Wine Society!  Match this with anything with tomatoes or any game birds like quail or duck.

2015 KULETO ESTATE CABERNET FRANC

This is definitely a member favorites. With limited cases made, this grape is one of the parents of Cabernet Sauvignon and offers a “hot tamale” like spice and wonderful savory fruit characteristics finished with blueberry candy-like finish. I’d recommend serving it with a leaner steak like Filet Mignon. 

2015 KULETO DANIELLI

Simply put, this is the best of the best from the property. The Danielli is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based red wine blend and the most in-demand wine from the estate, selling out in record time year after year. 

Three Rivers Winery is located in the small-but-booming wine town of Walla Walla, Washington. Leading the charge there is winemaker Holly Turner, who is doing her part to put the winery’s products on the map in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.  

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Q: WHAT DREW YOU TO THE WINEMAKING PROFESSION? 

While I was attending college and studying environmental horticultural science, I took a part time job in a tasting room where I had a “light bulb moment” that wine was a way that I could apply my love of science in an artistic way.  From that moment, I embarked upon a trajectory into enology and never looked back. I remember the first time that I topped barrels as a cellar rat; I felt so at home and fascinated all at the same time. It just felt right.

Q: AT WHAT POINT DID YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WANTED TO GET INTO WINEMAKING?

That tasting room job got my food in the door, and from there I moved into the lab which really solidified that this is exactly what I should be doing. It hits on all cylinders for me. It’s challenging from the science perspective, artistically intriguing, physically engaging and certainly not boring.  When I get tired of crunching numbers or running trials, I can take a walk through the vineyard; it’s all relevant. What an awesome profession – there isn’t a day I don’t want to take my work home with me!

Q: HOW’D YOU LAND AT THREE RIVERS WINERY? 

I had been asked to join Three Rivers as the Assistant Winemaker after I returned from a harvest in Argentina in 2000. I jumped at the chance to move to the small bustling wine town of Walla Walla. We were the 14th winery in Walla Walla, the industry here was just about to take off. Fun to be a part of that growth. 

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“I’ve traveled and worked in different wine regions and, if given to work in any wine region in the world, I think I’d stay put. There is still so much unrealized potential in Washington, fun to be a part of its evolution.”

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Q: YOUR HUSBAND, ANDY, IS THE ASSISTANT WINEMAKER AT THREE RIVERS. WHAT IS IT LIKE WORKING WITH HIM DAILY? ANY PROS/CONS?

There are nothing but pros working with my husband every day. We love what we do. We talk shop all the time, and that’s okay. This is the kind of thing that isn’t just what you do, it is who we are. During harvest, we are working non-stop. We appreciate our time away and have never ending discussions of how to improve everything from wine quality to customer experiences.

Q: WHAT’S THE TYPICAL DAY LIKE FOR A WINEMAKER? DOES IT VARY BY SEASON?

Winemaking is definitely seasonal. I break it down like this:

• HARVEST (Fall); picking grapes, fermentation, cleaning, cleaning and cleaning
• POST-HARVEST (Winter) racking; after ML cleaning up the wines, getting them buttoned up for the winter
• BOTTLING (Spring); finishing the wines to get bottled for us this is January thru May
• VINEYARDS (Summer); blending longer aged red wines, fruit contracts, vineyard visits including sampling and prepping equipment for the next vintage.

Q: WHAT’S A COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR ROLE? 

That I drink wine all day. Nope… wouldn’t get anything done if that’s how we rolled.

Q: DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE THREE RIVERS WINE CURRENTLY?

Since it’s spring, and I have to say our 2018 Estate Cabernet Franc Rosé is tasting nice and refreshing. With its pale salmon hue, fragrant floral aromas and wild mountain strawberry flavors finishing crisp and clean, it’s what the doctor ordered. 

Q: ANY WORDS FOR OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE INDUSTRY?

Go out and get educated. There are more options now than ever! All experience on and around the industry is worthwhile and don’t forget to taste as many wines as you can. After all, you could be running the show one day. 

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Want to see the end result of Holly and her team’s work? Shop all Three Rivers wines, available now in the Foley Food & Wine Society Wine Shop. 

For the second straight year, Vegas Golden Knights owner and Foley Food & Wine Society founder Bill Foley is extending a special offer to Golden Knights fans who make the trip to Northern California to support the team in their first-round playoff matchup against the San Jose Sharks.

On the morning of Game 2 (Friday, April 12), fans will have an opportunity to climb on board the “VGK Express” which will transport them from downtown San Jose to Foley Johnson in Rutherford, California, where they’ll receive a complimentary tasting, special Vegas Golden Knights GoVino and exclusive offers on wines purchased at the estate.

The ”VGK Express” costs $35 per person and will take place Friday, April 12, with a departure time of 9:30AM PT. It is scheduled to return to the same location approximately 3:30PM PT. It includes:

• Roundtrip charter bus transportation from San Jose* to Foley Johnson Winery in Rutherford, CA
• Complimentary tasting of Foley Johnson wines
• Small bites prepared by the Foley Food & Wine Society culinary team
• Vegas Golden Knights GoVino shatterproof wine glass
• $35 credit towards the purchase of any 12 btl case of wine or wine club membership purchased at the estate

The offer is limited to the first 50 registrants, so be sure to reserve your spot today.

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CLIMB ON BOARD

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*Please note the exact location of the pickup and drop-off location in downtown San Jose is TBD and will be communicated to all paid attendees 24 hours before departure time.
 

Watch highlights from last year’s VGK Express trip below!

Sebastiani Winery in Sonoma, California has historic wood carvings on display on their property, including an intricate depiction of the winemaking calendar. Each month is represented separately with a special part of the process a winery participates in to yield great wine.

Throughout the year, we ask winemakers to explain what’s happening behind the scenes each month as part of our The Vintner’s Calendar series.

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MAY – FROST

With vines starting to grow and the anticipation of bloom around the corner, May is an exciting month in the vineyard…but it does come with a little worry. At this point in their lifecycle, vines are very fragile and susceptible to frost. If the new growth is hit with freezing or below freezing temperatures it will severely damage the vine, with the effects lasting for up to two years!

The most important thing vineyards can do to combat the frost season is prepare. Most have preventative measures ready; a traditional method is the use of smudge pots, which can be placed around the vineyard and lit with diesel to increase the vineyard’s micro-temperature. Due to its climatic impact, we’re seeing this being phased out in favor of more eco-friendly alternatives. More popular in New World wine regions is the use of large fans in the vineyard, which are used to circulate cold, low-laying air.

Alicia Sylvester, who spent time as Assistant Winemaker at Lancaster Estate before moving over the the Winemaker role at Merus, explains that the impact of frost is different for every winery.

“Luckily, Alexander Valley is one of the warmer California American Viticulture Areas so we have a lower risk of frost in total. Lancaster’s topography and gentle hillsides are also natural frost preventers. There are less low laying, valley floor vines, where cold air may lay and freeze our new growth.”

No matter which approach a winery decides to take, combating frost and other elements that come their way during the month of May will ensure keeping the vines healthy and fruitful for years to come.

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Catch up on the other installments of “The Vintner’s Calendar” here.