Celebrating the holiday season in wine country is magical. With festive events at every corner, you’re sure to find some great activities to add to your calendar that will get you in the holiday spirit.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT EOS
December 1st, 10AM – 4PM | Eos Winery
Join Eos for a little jingle and mingle at their Holiday Open House! They’ll be diving into some wine education, giving you great tips for wine pairings that you can use when hosting your next holiday party. Plus, exclusive one-day wine specials will land you your favorite Eos wines at a great price!
WINTER WINE CLUB PICK UP PARTY
December 7th, 5PM – 7PM | Three Rivers Winery
Any visit to Three Rivers to pick up the newest releases is a good day. But when it involves an over-the-top s’mores bar? It’s a great day. A live band will be on-site filling the air with your favorite festive tunes and the Three Rivers staff will be ready to answer all your questions about the winter releases.
5TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY ON THE HILL
December 8th, 12PM – 4PM | Chalk Hill Estate, Lancaster Estate, Foley Sonoma, and Roth Winery
Spend the afternoon sipping on Foley Family Wines paired with mouthwatering morsels as you make your way through the very best that Chalk Hill and Alexander Valley have to offer. Four Sonoma wineries (Chalk Hill, Lancaster Estate, Foley Sonoma, and Roth Winery) will be welcoming guests for this festive celebration, with each property offering games, prizes, selfie stations, and more! Tickets available here.
The Santa Rosa Santa Run brings a day of fun for the whole family with a 5k Run/Walk (timed) and Merry Mile (not timed), and a festive finish in Santa Rosa with cookies, milk, and music.
LANGTRY UGLY SWEATER SOIRÉE
December 8th, 2PM – 5PM | Langtry Estate
Help Langtry Estate deck the halls with the Ugliest Sweater Soirée of them all! Come dressed in that sweat that you swore you’d never leave the house in and enjoy some delectable bites and fabulous wines. Tickets available here.
SEBASTIANI CHERRYBLOCK CHRISTMAS TASTING
December 15th, 6PM – 8PM | Sebastiani
While other people are dreaming of a White Christmas, Sebastiani is gearing up for their Cherryblock Christmas Tasting – and you’re invited! Guests will gather in the Historic Barrel Room and journey through bottles of Cherryblock Past in an educational tasting led by Sebastiani Senior Manager Chris Puppione. Estate Chef Shawna Plunkett will also be on-site, serving guests an array of Pinsa Romana flatbreads. Tickets available here.
Celebrate the culmination of the Charles M. Shulz Museum’s Year of the Dog events by making a Peanuts-themed ornament just in time for the “howl-idays.” Guests are welcome to explore the museum, take advantage of the many photo opps, and take home a special Snoopy button.
December 16th, 10AM – 4PM | Petaluma Veteran’s Memorial Building, Petaluma, CA
Find something for everyone on your holiday gift list at Petaluma’s Holiday Crafterino! Browse the best in local handmade crafts and gifts and enjoy cheer and goodwill. The Holiday Crafterino was founded to promote local artisans and crafters as well as to raise money to benefit COTS (The Committee On The Shelterless) COTS provides meals and beds for people in need in the Petaluma area, so you can feel extra good about supporting a great cause!
While Black Friday may be notorious for its neverending lines, swarms of crowds, and dusk-to-dawn hours of shopping, we’re here to offer a much pleasant alternative.
Join us in any of our eighteen tasting rooms to escape the madness and enjoy a post-Thanksgiving experience that will keep you in the holiday spirit.
This Friday, bring this tasting coupon into any of the properties below and receive a complimentary tasting with each purchased tasting.
SONOMA COUNTY
Chalk Hill Estate | 10300 Chalk Hill Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 | 707.657.4837
Roth Estate | 10309 Chalk Hill Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 | 707-836-7030
Lancaster Estate | 15001 Chalk Hill Road Healdsburg, CA 95448 | 707-433-8178
The Foley Food & Wine Society is celebrating two Foley Family Wines being named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 2018. The list, revealed Monday, includes the 2015 The Four Graces Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, which ranked 50th among all wines, and the 2014 Foley Johnson Meritage, which came in at #100. This is the second year in a row a wine from Foley Family Wines has made the highly-regarded list. The 2014 Lancaster Estate Cabernet Sauvignon made the 2017 Top 100, ranking #86.
Each year, Wine Spectator editors survey the wines reviewed over the previous 12 months and select their Top 100, based on quality, value, availability and excitement. This annual list honors successful wineries, regions and vintages around the world.
“We are honored to be recognized on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 List” said Hugh Reimers, President of Foley Family Wines.
“To have two of our wines, as varied from each other as these two are, be recognized in the same year is exceptional. It illustrates the dedication to quality and consistency found among our estate winemakers across the entire Foley Family Wines portfolio.”
Senior Editor for Wine Spectator Tim Fish accompanied his review of the 2015 The Four Graces Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley with a 93-point score, writing, “An expressive and supple version, with a complex core of lively tannins and acidity, plus accents of black cherry, cinnamon and spice that linger toward the minerally finish. Drink now through 2024.”
Fellow Senior Editor James Laube awarded the 2014 Meritage from Foley Johnson 92 points, noting, “Bordeaux-like, offering an expansive mix of currant, cedar, cigar box, riverbed and tobacco leaf flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2020 through 2032.”
The 2014 Foley Johnson Meritage can be purchased online or calling by the Foley Johnson tasting room at 707-963-1980.
Those wishing to purchase the 2015 The Four Graces Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley can do so by clicking here or can contact the tasting room at 800-245-2950.
Both wines can also be found at select retailers and fine dining establishments throughout the country.
After spending countless hours preparing the turkey, orchestrating the perfect array of side dishes, and decorating your house for visitors, there is one last box to check before sitting down for the biggest feast of the year — selecting the wine.
Thanksgiving dinner brings many types of foods and flavors, so there are a few factors to consider when deciding what varietal earns a spot on the table. Are you looking for something to pair with the entire meal, or do you want to switch it up course by course? Do guests prefer red or white? What flavors do you want highlighted?
To help narrow it down, we asked the knowledgeable tasting room staff at some of the most notable wineries across the West Coast what they recommend.
2017 LANGTRY VIOGNIER, GUENOC VALLEY AVA
Langtry Estate | Middletown, CA
“The playful floral nose and delicate stone fruit palate this wine offers is the perfect pairing with your holiday bird and decadent sides! With notes of tropical fruit and a bright mid palate it can stand up to that pound of butter you put in your mashed potatoes.” – Jessie Zielsdorf, Hospitality Manager & Wine Club Concierge at Langtry Estate
> Shop the ’17 Langtry Viognier
2016 FOLEY SONOMA PINOT NOIR, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
Foley Sonoma | Geyserville, CA
“If you’re looking for the perfect pairing for a rich, salty Thanksgiving dinner then you want a Pinot. It’s a versatile red — it’s light, rich in fruit, and with high acid (which creates the perfect balance with salt). Pair one of our shades of Pinot with turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy… yum, I’m getting hungry!” – Rebekah Nelson, Hospitality Manager at Foley Sonoma
> Shop the ’16 Foley Sonoma Pinot Noir
PRO TIP: Can’t find a bottle of the ‘16 Foley Sonoma Pinot Noir? Rebekah also recommends Foley Sonoma’s ‘17 Rosé of Pinot Noir and ‘16 Sparkling Blanc de Noir.
2016 LANCASTER ESTATE WINEMAKER’S CUVÉE, ALEXANDER VALLEY
Lancaster Estate | Healdsburg, CA
“The 2016 Winemaker’s Cuvée is medium-bodied (perfect for turkey!), with a savory finish that will pair well with the fixings.” – Greg Reid, Tasting Room Manager at Lancaster Estate
> Shop the ’16 Lancaster Winemaker’s Cuvée
2016 THREE RIVERS SYRAH, WALLA WALLA VALLEY
Three Rivers Winery | Walla Walla, WA
“Softer tannins and round palate play nice with the neutral flavors of the Thanksgiving feast, creamy gravy, and turkey.” – Andy Slusarenko, Assistant Winemaker & General Manager at Three Rivers Winery
> Shop the ’16 Three Rivers Syrah
2016 SEBASTIANI PATRICK’S VINEYARD CHARDONNAY
Sebastiani Vineyard & Winery | Sonoma, CA
Can’t go wrong with the 2016 Patrick’s Vineyard Chardonnay. It’s one of the Burgundian staples of our portfolio pair classically with your holiday bird.
> Shop the ’16 Sebastiani Chardonnay
Looking for a red to add to the table alongside the ’16 Sebastiani Patrick’s Vineyard Chardonnay? The ’16 Sebastiani Robert’s Vineyard Pinot Noir is also highly recommended!
2014 FOLEY JOHNSON MERLOT
Foley Johnson | Rutherford, CA
“The 2014 Foley Johnson Merlot is medium-bodied with excellent acid – great to match with the varied flavors on a loaded Thanksgiving day plate.” – Kenny Koda, Senior Hospitality Manager for Napa Valley, Foley Food & Wine Society
> Shop the ’14 Foley Johnson Merlot
2014 CHALK HIL ESTATE PINOT NOIR
Chalk Hill Estate | Healdsburg, CA
“I’ll be bringing our 2015 Estate Pinot Noir. It is a light wine with tons of fresh, bright red fruit on the nose and palate that plays with the delicateness of the moist turkey and will compliment the sides as well.” – Senior Hospitality Manager at Chalk Hill
2015 ROTH RESERVE TRENTON VINEYARD PINOT NOIR, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY
Roth Estate | Healdsburg, CA
“This wine opens with a gorgeous bouquet of red cherry, rasperry and cassis. The palate follows suit with red fruits, forest floor and notes of espresso. A pleasing acidity complements the fixings of a turkey dinner warmed with sweet potatoes and stuffing and everything in between.” – Stephanie Culen, Hospitality and Sales Manager at Roth Estate
> Shop the ’15 Roth Reserve Pinot Noir
2016 FIRESTONE RESERVE CHARDONNAY
Firestone Vineyard | Los Olivos, CA
“With some some oak influence, this wine offers butterscotch and a nice round finish – but the acidity balances well with any dish on your thanksgiving table.” – Linda Van Hook, Group Sales Manager for Southern California, Foley Family Wines
> Shop the ’16 Firestone Reserve Chardonnay
2016 EOS RESERVE SANTA MARGARITA ZINFANDEL
Eos | Paso Robles, CA
“The 2016 Reserve Santa Margarita Zinfandel has nice soft peppery nose and taste in addition to being fruity and jammy all of which will pair well with all the flavors that tend to be enjoyed during this day of giving thanks. Family and friends will undoubtedly will have an easy time enjoying this wine and bring themselves to ask the question: What other event or occasion can the 2016 Reserve Santa Margarita Zinfandel be enjoyed?” – Jesus Fernandez, Sales Associate at Eos
Foley Sonoma is hosting a Winemaker Soirée this Saturday, November 17th, to celebrate the appointment of Chalo Fernandez as new head winemaker and the release of the highly-anticipated 2016 Blanc De Noir.
Guests will enjoy a special menu of small bites that include oysters and passed hors d’oeuvres, as well as live music from local band Blue Radio.
Foley Sonoma announced the appointment of Fernandez to the winemaker role in September, as former winemaker Courtney Foley had transitioned to Head of Winemaking for Chalk Hill Estate a few months prior.
“The question of who was fit to take over winemaking at Foley Sonoma was an easy one to answer – of course, it should be Chalo!” said Foley. “For a small property, you need a winemaker who is a jack of all trades; someone who is equally interested in bringing in beautiful fruit and thoughtfully tending to wine as it gracefully ages, but is also detail-oriented enough to tackle compliance and accounting issues and doesn’t mind moving furniture and cleaning fountains to assist with winery events.”
“I’m so grateful to know that my dedication and hard work to create the best wines in Alexander Valley transformed into this opportunity,” remarked Fernandez as he reflected on the appointment to the new role. “It was like a dream come true.”
The 2016 Blanc De Noir is one of several wines in the hand crafted, Foley Sonoma Winemaker Series. Each wine in the series embodies a distinct representation of terroir which is illustrated by the hand painted watercolors seen on our labels. From the Winemaker’s Notes…
Our 2016 Blanc de Noir Sparkling Wine shows vibrant aromas of fresh strawberry, raspberry, and red cherry on the nose. It offers a beautifully bright acidity of strawberry, raspberry, and honeysuckle flavors with a lively mouth-feel that enchants the palate. Crisp on entry, the lively bubbles offer a persistent finish.
Want to join in on the fun? Help Foley Sonoma celebrate Chalo Fernandez’s new role at the Winemaker Soirée; tickets available online.
Foley Sonoma | 5110 Highway 128 Geyserville, CA 95441
For members of The Foley Food & Wine Society, there’s only one way to celebrate harvest — the annual Foley Food & Wine Society Harvest Celebration!
Held at the iconic Chalk Hill Estate in Sonoma County, The Foley Food & Wine Society Harvest Celebration brings together the entire Foley Family Wines portfolio under one roof for a collective jubilee to honor the season’s bounty.
Guests at the event were invited to taste the full spectrum of Foley Family Wines, which include wines from the greatest wine regions of Washington, Oregon, and California. For Foley Food & Wine Society member Jeff Duplicki, this was the perfect chance to try something new.
“I wanted to try the Willamette Valley wines,” says Duplicki. “I wanted to buy a few, but this was the opportunity to taste them.”
In addition to the fantastic wines, the Foley Food & Wine Society culinary teams brought their best work with a spread of decadent bites that were the perfect complement to what was being poured throughout the afternoon. The menu was seasonal and festive, with something for every palate.
Known for being one of the best Foley Food & Wine Society events of the year, the Harvest Celebration stayed true to its reputation.
“It’s an incredible experience. Wonderful people, wonderful food, and incredible wines,” said Foley Food & Wine Society member Doug Wilgar.
Wilgar, who resides in Las Vegas, NV, has been a member of The Society for over three years and has made the trip to Sonoma County for the Harvest Celebration two years in a row.
“It’s a phenomenal experience. Got to come out and enjoy it because there’s nothing better out here.”
November is here! In between prepping for the arrival of your relatives for Thanksgiving dinner and switching out your holiday decorations, be sure to make some time for yourself – and one of these great events happening this month in wine country!
It’s known for being Northern Sonoma County’s premiere event – and it’s easy to see why! Almost 100 wineries participate, offering a food and wine pairing for guests as they travel from one property to the next in the all-day event.
5TH ANNUAL FOLEY FOOD & WINE SOCIETY HARVEST CELEBRATION
After a long and bountiful harvest, it’s time to celebrate! Foley Food & Wine Society will be holding their annual harvest celebration, showcasing their vast portfolio of wines spanning the greatest wine regions of California, Oregon, and Washington. Great wines, festive fall bites, and fun entertainment – what else can you ask for?
VETERAN’S DAY PARADE AND FLY OVER
November 11th, 12PM | Downtown Petaluma
Honor our nation’s heros on Veteran’s Day with the renowned Veteran’s Day Parade and Fly Over in Petaluma. This event is the largest Veteran’s Day parade north of the Golden Gate and attracts guests from all over (most recently, an estimated crowd of 40,000!) for the special commemoration. Huey helicopters, tanks, and more than 100 entires fill the parade with plenty of pomp and circumstance.
EOS NOVEMBER SUPPER CLUB
November 14th, 6PM – 8:30PM | Eos Winery
Eos continues to flex their culinary muscle with their third installment of the Eos Supper Club. Featuring a three-course prix fixe meal prepared by Estate Chef Danelle Jarzynski, guests will also indulge in Eos wine pairings to complement the meal. With limited seats, this event is a treat that will delight foodies and wine lovers alike.
Foley Sonoma is inviting you to come meet their new winemaker, Chalo Fernandez! Chalo, who has been a part of the team at Foley Sonoma since 2016, moved into the head winemaker role recently and is excited to meet and mingle with guests while releasing the highly-anticipated 2016 Blanc De Noir.
Over 100 vendors from Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito gather to showcase their handmade crafts and artwork, just in time for the holiday season! Vendors are selected through a panel process to ensure that the marketplace is one of the most high-quality, diverse, and exclusive that guests have ever seen.
The city of Napa marks the start of the season with its annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Veterans Park on Main Street in downtown Napa. Free cookies and hot chocolate will be provided for all, along with entertainment and great company!
November 22nd, 12PM – 6PM | The Meritage Resort & Spa
The Meritage Resort & Spa is inviting you to their Thanksgiving table! If you’ll be away from family or just don’t feel like spending hours over the stove, join them for a feast you won’t soon forget. Seasonal favorites including roasted turkey and honey glazed ham will be served, with California wine country salads, decadent desserts, and so much more also available.
Fall – and October, especially – is a special time in California’s wine country. From the crisp autumn air to the leaves speckling the hill in their changing colors, there is something magical about watching this season come to life in the vineyards. But the height of the magic is at Halloween – the spooky holiday that brings fun to both children and adults alike. Here are a few of our favorite festive events happening around town this weekend.
SONOMA WINE COUNTRY
ROTH ESTATE HALLOWEEN SPOOK-TACULAR
Saturday, October 27th, 6PM – 9PM Roth Estate | 10309 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA
Throwing arguably one of Sonoma County’s best Halloween parties, Roth Estate is back with their Spook-tacular event – and it’s bigger and better than ever before. The annual costume party brings out a little creativity and a lot of competitiveness in attendees, as they battle for epic prizes throughout the night. DJ Dennis Anderson will be playing some great tunes to “raise spirits” and there will be finger foods to ”satiate a blood-thirsty hunger “ – plus, of course, great Roth wines! Tickets are still available so be sure to grab one…if you dare!
HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREAT TRAIL
Wednesday, October 31st, 3PM – 5:30PM Historic Downtown Petaluma | Petaluma, CA
The Petaluma Downtown Association hosts this year’s Downtown Petaluma’s Trick or Treat Trail, inviting little goblins (and their parents!) to hit downtown collecting their treats. Children will receive a Trick or Treat Trail Map that will help navigate them to businesses throughout the area that will be giving out candy.
October 27th and October 28th, 7PM – 12AM Paso Robles Event Center | 2198 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles, CA
This two-day, upscale celebration of all things Halloween is not to be missed if you’re on the Central Coast. Due to popularity, the party has moved to a bigger space at the California Mid-State Fairgrounds and is ready to bring the Halloween spirit in full force. Guests can expect interactive props, out-of-this-world sound & visual FX, a great food & drink spread, and so much more. Don’t forget your costume – it’s mandatory! This is a 21+ event and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Saturday, October 27th, 11AM Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea was incorporated on Halloween in 1916, so it celebrates its birthday and the country’s favorite costume-and-candy holiday with a Halloween Parade! Guests of all ages are invited to particpate (or spectate!) in the parade, begins at 11AM and goes through the downtown area. Following the parade, at Sunset Center is a hot-dog lunch with all the fixin’s – plus chili, chips, drink, ice cream, and birthday cake! – will take place. City dignitaries, VIPs, costumed dogs and kids, and residents and visitors alike gather for this upbeat annual affair!
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL
Sunday October 28th, 11AM – 4PM Crawford Park | Walla Walla, WA
The Day of the Dead (El Día de los Muertos in Spanish) is a Mexican and Mexican-American celebration which falls on November 1st and 2nd. Partake in the festivities with a classic street festival being held in Downtown Walla Walla, complete with free activities, music, dance, and theater. Guests of all ages are invited to come down to experience the culture and festivities associated with this great holiday!
With its rich history and dedication to exceptional winemaking, Chalk Hill Estate has earned its place as one of the most iconic wineries in Sonoma County; perhaps none other captures the casual luxury of Sonoma County better. Founded nearly four decades ago, this spectacular 1300-acre property features 300 acres of vineyards, wilderness areas, winery, hospitality center, culinary garden — and that’s just the beginning.
Beyond its gorgeous estate, Chalk Hill’s never-ending quest for quality serves as the basis for all winemaking decisions, yielding some of the best wines from the region. Many varietals and vintages have been donned with acclaims from some of the most notable publications in the industry including Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and others.
If you’re looking to explore some of Chalk Hill’s best, take a look at this list of lauded wines that span all tastes and preferences. Call the Chalk Hill tasting room today at 707-657-4837 to order yours today or plan a visit! And if you can’t make it to Chalk Hill, use the links below to buy online or find a retailer near you!
91 Points, Wine Spectator | “Fresh and snappy, with ginger-laced green apple, citrus and honeydew notes shaded by light oak, gaining depth and nuance on the finish. Drink now through 2020.”
93 Points, Wine Enthusiast | “Rich, round and ripe, this is made from a musqué clone originally from Dijon, France, meant to impart memorable aromatics. It does, in spades, revealing wafts of honeysuckle and fresh pineapple amid a bright, tangy twist of acidity and gravely minerality, sharing a touch of salt on the finish.”
2014 CHALK HILL ESTATE CHARDONNAY
90 points, Wine Enthusiast | “Golden in color, this wine opens with a decadent nose of baked apple and raisin bread, and the sweetness of vanilla oak. Full bodied and round on the palate, it balances the richness and concentration with lengthy acidity on the finish.”
92 points, Wine Enthusiast | “Strikes a balance between rich, spicy oak and an intense core of fruit, echoing pear, apple and melon flavors. Maintains equilibrium, ending with creamy, vanilla-scented oak notes. Drink now.”
2015 CHALK HILL ESTATE CHARDONNAY, CHALK HILL AVA
90 points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate| “The 2015 Chardonnay Estate delivers scents of guava, mango, ripe melon and allspice with hints of buttered toast and praline. Full-bodied and voluptuous in the mouth with tons of tropical fruit flavors matched by a pleasant oiliness to the texture and refreshing acid line, it finishes long and spicy.”
90 points, Wine Enthusiast | “Salty and briny around a fruity core of green apple and Meyer lemon meringue, this approachable white is full bodied and wholly concentrated, with plenty of integrated oak. A steely ring of acidity keeps it from becoming too rich, with a finish nicely polished in vanilla.”
93 points, Wine Spectator | “Lots of spice, apricot, fig and honeydew melon flavors combine for a full-bodied, mouth-coating experience, with a finish that sails on and on, gaining depth. Drink now through 2022.”
2015 CHALK HILL WRIGHT CREEK CHARDONNAY, CHALK HILL AVA
94+ points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate | “The 2015 Chardonnay Wright Creek is a cracking wine with a very classy nose of honeyed brioche, cashews and apple butter over a core of pineapples, lemon curd and pink grapefruit. Full-bodied, rich and boldly fruited, it has a gorgeous creamy texture and wonderful precision, finishing long and layered.”
2015 CHALK HILL ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC
91 points, Wine Enthusiast| “A blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris and Sauvignon Musqué, this wine delights for its supple apricot and nectarine flavors. It’s floral on the nose, with grapefruit and fennel scents, unfolding slowly to reveal a rich texture and fresh acidity.”
92 points, Connoisseurs’ Guide | “Ripe, well-extracted fruit jumps to the fore here early on and is this moderately full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc’s driving force all the way to the finish, but the wine is far more than simply fruity and gives full play to the grape’s herbal side with a nice dollop of carefully fit oak sweetening the mix. There is a juicy aspect to its frontal appeal, yet there is enough depth and reserve to say that it will be better if cellared, but, whether it is poured in the short term or set aside for a few years, it is a wine that wants pairing with full-flavored dishes such as a spicy, well-seasoned Provençal Bouillabaisse.”
2016 CHALK HILL ESTATE CHARDONNAY, CHALK HILL AVA
91 points, Wine Advocate| “The 2016 Chardonnay Estate is scented of ripe Bosc pears, fresh apple slices and nutmeg with hints of peach kernels, lightly browned toast and struck flint. Medium to full-bodied, the palate offers plenty of apple and pear goodness, with a satiny texture and lively line, finishing creamy.”
2016 CHALK HILL ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC, CHALK HILL AVA
93 points, Wine Enthusiast| “This is floral and beguiling on the nose. It was blended with 11% Sauvignon Gris and 6% Sauvignon Musque, fermented and aged in both French oak and stainless steel drums. Creamy and lush on the palate, the medium body is integrated and complex in highlights of apricot, lime and peach.”
92 points, Wine Advocate| “The 2016 Sauvignon Blanc Estate delivers intense passion fruit, white peach and grapefruit notes with touches of musk perfume, wet slate and bay leaves. Medium-bodied, the palate offers bags of stone fruit and citrus flavors, with a racy backbone and long mineral-tinged finish.”
REDS
2014 CHALK HILL CHAIRMAN’S CLUB SYRAH, CHALK HILL AVA
92+ points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate| “Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Syrah Estate reveals spicy black pepper, anise and cloves notes with a core of blackberries and black currants plus a waft of garrigue. The palate is a little oak dominated at this youthful stage, overshadowing the rich, ripe core of black fruits and spice box notes with rounded tannins and seamless acid to support, finishing just a little hot. With a couple more years in bottle, everything should fall into place in this promising beauty, although I’ve scored it conservatively for now.”
2014 CHALK HILL CLARA’S VINEYARD RED WINE, CHALK HILL AVA
91+ points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate| “A massive effort, rich, thick, deep and layered, with tiers of mocha, blackberry, espresso, cedar and crushed rock flavors, turning toward graphite and savory herb notes on the long finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Best from 2018 through 2028.”
94 points, Wine Spectator| “A blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot, the 2014 Clara’s Red is deep garnet-purple colored, with aromas of cassis, cedar bay leaves and chocolate box plus a touch of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, the palate shows great sophistication and depth, with tons of youthful black fruit flavors framed by firm tannins and a lively backbone, finishing with very good persistence.”
2015 CHALK HILL ESTATE RED, CHALK HILL AVA
94+ points, Wine Advocate | “The 2015 Estate Red is deep garnet-purple colored and delivers a good amount of oak-inspired notions to begin over a core of blackcurrant cordial, blackberry pie, preserved plums and chocolate box with hints of vanilla pod and cigar box. Big, concentrated and full-bodied, the palate is jam-packed with black fruit preserves, framed by ripe, firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing on a woody note. Forget it for 5-6 years and drink it over the next 20.”
Each year, ghouls, goblins, and wine lovers gather at Roth Estate for their annual Halloween Spook-tacular! This festive event is one of the most highly-anticipated that Roth holds and combines a love for the spooky holiday with Roth’s delicious wines.
Guests will enjoy tunes from DJ Dennis Anderson to “raise spirits” and nosh on finger foods to satiate “bloodthirsty hunger” — all while sipping on Roth wines, of course. The property is transformed into a hair-raising ghostly landscape complete with all of the creepy things that make you sleep with one eye open.
Carina “Coco” Sterzenbach, Special Events Coordinator for Foley Family Wines, has helped plan the annual event for two consecutive years — and since Halloween is her absolute favorite holiday, it’s no surprise that this event is one that she looks forward to year after year.
“This is definitely my favorite event that we do,” said Sterzenbach. “It’s a great excuse to get a group of friends together for a fun, memorable experience…dressing up, drinking great wine, eating delectable food, dancing, and checking out other people’s costumes.”
Sterzenbach and the rest of the team at Roth spend countless hours preparing for the big night, considering everything from food pairings and wine offerings to logistics and entertainment. One of the biggest undertakings? Giving Roth’s wine cave a haunted makeover that guests can explore…if they dare.
“It takes us about a week to get the cave set up with all the fun, spooky decorations,” explains Sterzenbach. “We have to work with the winemaker to ensure that the wine in the barrels isn’t compromised while still providing a fun experience.”
Between the haunts and the treats, the annual costume contest serves as one of the most memorable parts of the event. Roth Estate offers up some incredible prizes for the most creative costumes, and the competition is fierce. The team has seen everything you can imagine, including jellyfish, the zombie versions of Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum, game pieces from the classic Clue board game… and that’s just the beginning!
Whether you go for a scary monster ensemble, a sweet princess get-up, or a silly unconventional character – get your costumes ready and don’t miss your chance to attend this incredible event! Tickets can be purchased online – $50 per ticket for Roth Wine Club Members and $60 per ticket for general admission & Sister Winery WIne Club members.
Surrounded by California pepper trees and overlooking the Alamo Pintado Vineyard near Solvang, Lincourt Vineyards retains the rural charm and simplicity of an earlier era. They’ll be celebrating this year’s harvest with some “cellar flair” during their Cellar-bration!, featuring traditional style street tacos straight off the grill, head-bobbin’ tunes from “The Tex Pistols,” and barrel samples right from the barrel. Can’t make it to Solvang for the event? Cash in on their Cellar Sale — 30% off the purchase of six or more bottles! More details on how to redeem this offer can be found on the event page, along with ticket information.
OCTOBER SUPPER CLUB AT EOS WINERY
October 17th, 6PM – 8:30PM | Eos Winery
You may know Eos for their fabulous Zinfandels or their beautiful Paso Robles location, but their addition of Estate Chef Danelle Jarzynski and the brand new Foley Food & Wine Society Café at Eos has made this a can’t-miss culinary destination while visiting the Central Coast. Dive into the seasonal offerings with a delicious three-course prix fixe meal during their October Supper Club, complete with expertly paired wines from Eos. This exclusive event is capped at 36 attendees, so RSVP sooner than later.
Sebastiani‘s annual Cherryblock Dinner is one of the most anticipated events of the year for the property and its wine club members, who receive exclusive invites to this exquisite evening of indulging in life’s greatest pleasures. Guests are treated to glasses of champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres while mingling with winemaker David Nakaji before being seated for a four-course food and wine experience prepared by Estate Chef Shawna Plunkett. Each dish is paired masterfully with different vintages of the coveted Cherryblock Cabernet Sauvignon, which has garnered high acclaims and recognition nationwide.
EOS HARVEST FESTIVAL WEEKEND CELEBRATION
October 21st, 1PM – 4PM | Eos Winery
In honor of the season’s bounty, Eos is throwing a harvest celebration unlike you’ve ever seen before! Join in the fun complete with live music from The Crisptones and delicious BBQ prepared by Estate Chef Danelle Jarzynski… and, of course, a great selection of Eos wines. Guests will also be invited into the cellar for an estate wine sale that is not to be missed. Tickets are $15/person for Eos Wine Club members and $20/person for Sister Wine Club Members; purchase online here.
Head over to the Roth Estate Halloween Spook-tacular in late October… if you dare! Celebrate this spooky holiday with Roth Estate complete with costume contest and a fortune teller. DJ Dennis Anderson will be spinning the tunes to “raise your spirits” and finger foods will be available to “satiate your blood-thirsty hunger.” Early bird pricing has already passed, but general admission tickets are still available for $60 (or $50/ticket for Roth Wine Club Members). Don’t miss this festive event fill with tricks – and many treats!
VILLAGE HARVEST FESTIVAL AT VISTA COLLINA RESORT
October 27th, 4PM – 6PM | Vista Collina Resort
The Foley Food & Wine Society Tasting Room is just one of nine fabulous tasting rooms that neighbor eachother, making a fall afternoon Village Harvest Festival a no-brainer! Since opening its doors in August, the tasting room has been deemed “one of the great wine experiences in California’s Napa Valley” as it showcases wines across the Foley Family portfolio including from esteemed properties such as Chalk Hill Estate, Foley Sonoma, Chalone Vineyard, and more. See what all of the hype is about as they participate in the Village Harvest Festival with the other businesses within Vista Collina, each demonstrating unique beer, wine, and culinary tastings. Take a seat in the courtyard, listen to some live music, and enjoy what’s sure to be a memorable evening. Tickets available online and are $125 for general admission or $50 for Wine Club members.
Let’s start by saying this: California’s wine country is great any time of year. With mild weather and wineries open year around, you’re sure to have a fantastic experience no matter when you decide to make the trip.
There is one month that stands out as being optimal in our eyes, though… October. The region is lively in both work in celebrations, with an atmosphere that is hard to beat. If you’re on the fence about planning your trip to Napa, Sonoma, or any of the other wine regions in California this month, read more about why it’s time to take the plunge.
CELEBRATE THE HARVEST SEASON
Depending on where you visit, there’s a good chance that you’ll catch the tail end of the harvest season (with less of the crowds!). Harvest typically begins as early as July in the different regions of California’s wine country and vary based on factors that include but aren’t limited to region, weather, and varietal. Grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah tend to be more late-ripening, so you may get to catch a glimpse of the colorful fruit still sitting on the vine in October — and, if you’re lucky, see the fast-moving crew in the vineyard picking the fruit and bringing it into the winery. Many vineyards along the Central Coast are still playing the waiting game; the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are still on the vine at Foley Estates, and many varietals at Firestone Vineyard won’t be picked until the last days of October.
THE YEAR’S BEST WINERY EVENTS
Wine country comes alive during harvest, and the celebrations continue through October. With this special time of year comes the tradition of harvest parties and experiences, where winemakers, wine drinkers, and wine country residents & visitors gather to celebrate the season’s bounty. Events like Lincourt Vineyard’s “Cellar-bration!” provide barrel samples straight from the cellar and often pair them with small bites that complement the wine. Looking for something more interactive? There are opportunities throughout wine country to participate in almost every aspect of winemaking, including grape stomping, working the crush pad, and more as the wineries are in full swing with the winemaking process.
ENJOY THE SUNSHINE
October delivers what is arguably the most pleasant weather of the year in California’s wine country, with a majority of the days boasting sun in the forecast and average high temperatures hovering in the 70s. Spend the days soaking in the sunshine on winery patios and lawns; Roth Estate features an expansive outdoor space with lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga ready to accept challengers, and Sebastiani’s iconic courtyard provides the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of vino. If you’ll be sticking around into the evening hours, make sure to bring a sweater — the Sonoma Valley has a “Mediterranean” climate, which often leads to cooler evenings that can drop into the 40s, even after sunshine-filled days.
WITNESS INCREDIBLE FALL FOLIAGE
As the last of the grapes are brought in, the leaves across wine country begin to turn colors that display an impressive blanket of fall foliage. Color transformations aren’t limited to trees, as grapes leaves that grace the vines turn from their various shades of green to magnificent reds, vivacious yellows, and picturesque coppers. Napa Valley’s winding roads already provide scenic drives, but this time of year steps it up a notch — take in the beauty along the Silverado Trail or from a mountaintop winery such as Kuleto Estate, where sweeping views provide a 360-degree view of Mother Nature’s work in action.
Are you ready to book your trip? Don’t forget to include Foley Family Wine properties on your stop! Read more about the fabulous vineyards and wineries located across Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and the Central Coast.
