Weekend Preview

This weekend is jam-packed with events all over the coast! Take a look at some of the big ones that we have our eyes on, including events at Foley Family Wine properties Sebastiani, Roth, Lincourt, Chalone, and Three Rivers.

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, July 20th, 6PM – 9PM
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA

The Poyntlyss Sistars, an eight-piece female-fronted band, will deliver four-part harmonies and play top hits through the decades in rock, R&B, Motown, and pop genres. Attendees will be able to sip on their favorite Sebastiani wine, available by-the-glass or by-the-bottle, while enjoying the evening. Sebastiani’s culinary team will be on-site and providing the perfect bites to accompany the wine, so come hungry! This family-friendly event is open to all, including well-behaved four-legged friends. Admission is free and no RSVP is required. 

ROTH SUMMER CELEBRATION

Saturday, July 21st, 2PM – 5PM
Roth Estate | 10309 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

Roth is pulling out all the stops for their Spanish-inspired Summer Celebration! The Foley Food & Wine Society culinary team will be on-site whipping up paella and an array of tapas to pair with Roth’s Smokey Ridge Zin and other new releases. Don’t miss the “Wine Olympics,” where attendees will test their wine skills for the chance to wine some incredible prizes. Topped off with lawn games and music, this is sure to be an event you don’t want to miss. Tickets are $20 for Roth Wine Club members and $35 for general admission; available online. 

ALEXANDER VALLEY FILM SOCIETY DRIVE-IN MOVIE

Saturday, July 21st, 6:30PM – 11:30PM
Cloverdale Citrus Fair | 1 Citrus Fair Drive, Cloverdale, CA

The Alexander Valley Film Society invites you to roll back the clock and fill the station wagon with the family for the continuation of their 2018 Summer Drive-In Series, with this weeked’s feature being the 80s favorite “Back to the Future.” In addition to the movie projecting on the jumbo screen, the AVFS was a ton of entertainment lined up for the evening: a cornhole tournament, local bands, a car cramming contest, and more! Individual tickets are $12, or cram a car full of friends for $40. Get tickets and more information about the event on the AVFS website.

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

LINCOURT SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, July 20th, 6PM – 9PM
Lincourt Vineyards | 1711 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, CA

Lincourt Vineyards continues their Summer Concert Series, with local band Low Down Dudes taking the stage on Friday night. While the live music fills the property, sip on Lincourt wines and grab a bite from Big Tom’s Backyard BBQ at this family-friendly event. There’s no cost to attend and no RSVP required. 

CHALONE 2ND ANNUAL BARREL TASTING

Saturday, July 21st, 3PM – 5PM
Chalone Vineyard | 32020 Stonewall Canyon Road, Soledad, CA

Chalone Vineyard is celebrating their second vintage since the re-opening of their tasting room with their Barrel Tasting Celebration. Join in for an afternoon of wine, live music, and delectable bites. Five pre-release 2017 wines will be available to taste from barrel and their 2017 Musque Chardonnay. Tickets are $10 for Chalone Wine Club members and $25 for members of sister properties & Foley Food & Society. 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

THREE RIVERS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 

Friday, July 20th, 6:30PM – 9PM 
Three Rivers Winery | 5641 Old Hwy 12, Walla Walla, WA 

Local band DavePaul5 is known for their renditions of rock, blues, and country classics – and they’ll be taking the Three Rivers Winery stage this Friday! Guests are invited to join for an evening filled with delightful tunes, in addition to stunning views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding vineyards, delicious food, and fabulous Three Rivers wines. The event is complimentary for Three Rivers Wine Club members, and $5/ticket for lawn seating. Additional options for table reservations are available. RSVP online or by calling 509-526-9463, ext 1. 

CHRISTMAS IN JULY 2018

Saturday, July 21st, 9AM – 3PM 
Walla Walla County Fairgrounds | 363 Orchard Street, Walla Walla, WA 

The countdown to Christmas is officially on! The third annual Christmas in July will be held at Walla Walla County Fairgrounds, where unique and creative handmade creations from local and regional vendors will be on display. Get a head start on your holiday shopping (in air-conditioning)! Event is free and family-friendly. 

Weekend Preview

With the 4th of July holiday falling in the middle of the week, many are getting a head start on an extended summer weekend. Keep the celebrations going with this list of local happenings.

NAPA VALLEY

BILLY BOB THORNTON & THE BOXMASTERS

Friday, July 6th, 7PM – 9PM
Napa Valley Perfoming Arts Center at Lincoln Theater | 100 California Drive, Yountville, CA

You may know Billy Bob Thornton from the silver screen, but he has always had an undying passion for music that carried him through numerous bands and even working as a roadie before starting his own band, The Boxmasters. Playing what they refer to as “psychobilly”— a combination of ’60s hillbilly music and British invasion rock— The Boxmasters have established a cult following and will kick off their latest “Speck Tour” at the Lincoln Theater. Event tickets can be purchased online.

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

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

Taking the stage this week at Sebastiani, Rock and Roll Rhythm Revue will be providing musical delight with what they describe as “Rock & Roll, Jump Blues, and Rockabilly music with attitude.” Attendees will be able to sip on their favorite Sebastiani wine, available by-the-glass or by-the-bottle, while enjoying the evening. This family-friendly event is open to all, including well-behaved four-legged friends! Admission is free and no RSVP is required. 

ADULTS AT PLAY AT ROTH ESTATE

Friday, July 6th, 4PM – 7PM
Roth Estate | 10309 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

The first Friday of each month, Roth Estate hosts “Adults at Play” for the perfect transition into the weekend. Take advantage of the large patio, complete with lawn games such as large-scale Jenga, bean bag toss, and more. A local band will be outside providing the tunes and the culinary team will be serving small bites. No RSVP required and no cost to attend. 

SONOMA COUNTRY ANTIQUES ANNUAL WAREHOUSE SALE

Saturday, July 7th, 9AM – 5:30PM 
Sonoma Country Antiques | 23999 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, CA

Bring your truck and get ready to bring home some great treasures! Sonoma Country Antiques is hosting their annual Warehouse Sale, giving shoppers an opportunity to score remarkable deals on one-of-a-kind pieces. The store is a premier destination in Northern California for antique and furniture enthusiasts, interior designers, and wine country visitors. 

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

FIRESTONE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, July 6th, 6PM – 9PM
Firestone Vineyards | 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos, CA

Join Firestone Vineyards for their Summer Concert Series, featuring the eclectic local band LiveWire. While the live music fills the property, sip on Firestone wines and grab a bite from Big Tom’s Backyard BBQ at this family-friendly event. There’s no cost to attend and no RSVP required. 

MONTEREY BEER FESTIVAL

Saturday, July 7th, 12:30PM – 5PM
Monterey County Fair & Event Center | 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, CA 

The Monterey Beer Festival brings over 80 beers from dozens of breweries together, allowing guests the chance to to taste unusual offerings from major beer companies as well as fantastic beers from unknown brewing companies from around the world. Live music from DJ Fredo and other special musical guests will provide tunes throughout the day, and local food vendors from throughout the area will have tasty booths with food available for purchase. Tickets are $45 in advance, $50 at the door, and includes all beer. VIP tickets and Designated Driver tickers are also available. For more information and to purchase, visit the event website

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

FOR THE LOVE OF LOCALS DOWNTOWN SHOPPING EVENT 

Thursday, July 5th, 11AM – 7PM
Downtown Walla Walla | Main Street, Walla Walla, WA 

Every first Thursday of the month, Walla Walla merchants invite local shoppers to Downtown Walla Walla for great deals and super savings as part of the For the Love of Locals Downtown Shopping Event. Participating merchants include Lost BoardroomTroveMarla June’sAllegro Cyclery, and more. 

THREE RIVERS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 

Friday, July 6th, 6:30PM – 9PM 
Three Rivers Winery | 5641 Old Hwy 12, Walla Walla, WA 

Modern Americana duo Silver Lake 66, playing music that has been described by Huffington Post as “elegant simplicity,” will be playing on the lawn in the next installment of Three Rivers Winery’s Summer Concert Series. Guests are invited to join for an evening filled with delightful tunes, in addition to stunning views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding vineyards, delicious food, and fabulous Three Rivers wines. The event is complimentary for Three Rivers Wine Club members, and $5/ticket for lawn seating. Additional options for table reservations are available. RSVP online or by calling 509-526-9463, ext 1.

Special Offer for Military Members

In honor of Independence Day, The Foley Food & Wine Society is extending an offer for all active members of the U.S. military.

Active service members who visit any of the Foley Food & Wine Society tasting rooms listed below from 7/1 – 7/8 are eligible to receive a complimentary tasting for two guests, in addition to 20% off all wine purchases. 

Participating wineries include:

  • Chalk Hill Estate
  • Foley Sonoma
  • Lancaster Estate
  • Roth Estate Winery
  • Sebastiani
  • Foley Johnson
  • Kuleto Estate
  • Chalone Vineyard
  • Eos Winery
  • Firestone Vineyard
  • Foley Estates
  • Lincourt Vineyards
  • FFWS Tasting Room at Bacara
  • The Four Graces
  • Three Rivers Winery
  • Langtry Estate

Must present valid military ID on-site. We’re looking forward to hosting you to celebrate the 4th of July!

Weekend Preview

It’s shaping up to be a great weekend full of all of our favorite things: music, food, and (of course) wine! Here are some of the events that we’re keeping our eyes, from the Pacific Northwest to the Central Coast. 

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, June 29th, 6PM – 9PM
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA

When Friday Night Music Series and Food Truck Friday align to be on the same day, it’s guaranteed to be a very special evening! Music will be provided by Backtrax, one of the hottest classic rock tribute acts in the entire North Bay. This assembly of seasoned rock veterans have been named Best Band in Sonoma by the Sonoma Valley Sun for multiple years, and you won’t want to miss seeing them on stage at this weekend. Attendees will be able to sip on their favorite Sebastiani wine, available by-the-glass or by-the-bottle, while enjoying the evening. This family-friendly event is open to all, including well-behaved four-legged friends! Admission is free and no RSVP is required. 

FREE MOVIES ON THE GREEN – “COCO”

Friday, June 29th, 7PM 
Green Music Center | 1801 E. Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA

Winner of two Academy Awards® (Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song), Coco tells the story of young boy who embarks on an extraordinary journey in the Land of the Dead to discover the real story behind his family history. Pack a picnic, lay out on the beautifully-landscaped Weill Lawn, and watch this family-friendly flick on the outdoor jumbotron. Concessions will be available. 

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

FIRESTONE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, June 29th, 6PM – 9PM
Firestone Vineyards | 5017 Zaca Station Road, Los Olivos, CA

It’s not every day that you get to see a 14-piece band take the stage! Join Firestone Vineyards for their Summer Concert Series to listen to the musical delights of The Soul Cats, a local Santa Ynez Valley group that plays your favorite 60s tunes. Sip on Firestone wines and grab a bite from Big Tom’s Backyard BBQ at this family-friendly event.

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT GILROY GARDENS

June 30th – July 4th, 12PM – 1PM
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park | 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, CA 

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is kicking off 4th of July early – and continuing throughout the holiday! The theme park is hosting a special All-You-Can-Eat BBQ in the South County Picnic Grove. Enjoy BBQ pork ribs, all-beef hot dogs, curry over rice, ice cream novelties, and so much more. Cost is $17 for adults and $12 for children, and does not include admission to the park. Tickets can be purchased online. 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

THREE RIVERS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 

Friday, June 29th, 6:30PM – 9PM 
Three Rivers Winery | 5641 Old Hwy 12, Walla Walla, WA 

Join Three Rivers Winery for a fun evening of local food, wine, and music! The band 2% will be bringing the funk, soul, and rhythm & blues; they’ve referenced artists such as Steely Dan, Van Morrison, Stevie Wonder, and more as influences and are sure to fill the evening with delightful tunes while guests enjoy stunning views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding vineyards. Three Rivers wines will be available for purchase by the glass or by the bottle, with a happy hour glass pour special happening for attendees who arrive early. Walla Walla Tamales will be offering their delicious authentic Mexican food throughout the evening. The event is complimentary for Three Rivers Wine Club members, and $5/ticket for lawn seating. Additional options for table reservations are available. RSVP online or by calling 509-526-9463, ext 1. 

DOWNTOWN FARMER’S MARKET AT CRAWFORD PARK 

Saturday June 30th, 9AM – 1PM
Crawford Park | 106 W Main St, Walla Walla, WA 

The Downtown Farmer’s Market is Walla Walla’s premier market, serving as the one-stop shop for fresh cut flowers, flower baskets, beautifully-crafted artisan items, and local produce. The market is hed at Crawford Park / Market Station at the corner of Main & Fourth Streets in historic downtown Walla Walla and operates each Saturday from May through October. 

What to Taste This Weekend

With several wines in each region earning recent acclaims, there are plenty of critics’ picks to try during your upcoming visit to wine country. But we also know every estate has its sleeper picks. You know what we’re talking about — those lesser-known varietals and limited release blends that make you wonder “How have I not tried this before?” or “Where have you been hiding this?”

So, in this installment of What to Taste This Weekend, here are our top choices for the best critics’ picks and sleeper wines to try at various FFWS tasting rooms this weekend.


FOLEY ESTATES | 6121 E HIGHWAY 246, LOMPOC, CA

Critics’ Pick: 2014 Foley Estates Pinot Noir, T Anchor Ranch (91pts, Wine Enthusiast)

“Plump and somewhat jammy flavors of vanilla and baked cherry meet with soft clove dust on the nose of this bottling by the Foley family. The palate is tight in bright acidity, with flavors of red plum and cracked pepper that linger long on the finish.” — Wine Enthusiast   

Sleeper Pick: 2014 Foley Estates T-Anchor Ranch Chardonnay 

For the ultimate summer time wine, do not miss the 2014 T-Anchor Ranch Chardonnay. The tasting room at Foley Estates says that this is the perfect representation of the Sta. Rita Hills; lemon zest, pineapple and white flower dance around your pallet before melting away to a hint of vanilla latte! This is a bottle to sit and escape with.


Learn More & Shop Foley Estates Wines


CHALK HILL ESTATE | 10300 CHALK HILL ROAD, HEALDSBURG, CA

Critics’ Pick: 2016 Chalk Hill Estate Sauvignon Blanc (93pts, 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.” -V.B., Wine Enthusiast

Sleeper Pick: 2014 Chalk Hill Estate Chairman’s Reserve Carmenère

The Carmenère is a much less known varietal; in fact, it’s one of the long lost Bordeaux varietals that almost went extinct! Chalk HIll only produced 200 cases, but that didn’t stop their 2014 Chairman’s Reserve Carmenère from getting some recognition — including a 90+ score from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. 


Learn More & Shop Chalk Hill Estate Wines


FOLEY SONOMA | 5110 HWY 128, GEYSERVILLE, CA 

Critics’ Pick: 2017 Foley Sonoma Rosé of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

Foley Sonoma winemaker Courtney Foley hand-crafted and selected this Rosé of Pinot to be included in the Winemaker Series, making it one of the favorites of this small-but-mighty property. Featuring a whimsical watercolor label representing the Russian River Valley hillside vineyard where the wine is sourced, this Rosé is made for poolside enjoyment or porch sipping and is sure to deliver a sense of youthfulness and cheer.

Sleeper Pick: 2014 Foley Sonoma Pinot Noir, Russian River

This Pinot Noir from Foley Sonoma is a great light red summer varietal that is often overlooked. It’s easy to drink swallow during this summer heat!


Learn More & Shop Foley Sonoma Wines


Want to read about more of our critic and sleeper picks? Read another edition of What to Taste This Weekend featuring wines from Eos Winery, Sebastiani, and The Four Graces. 

Weekend Preview

If Dad is a wine drinker, taking him to one of the many Foley Food & Wine Society events across the West Coast for Father’s Day is a no-brainer. Take a look at the events happening this weekend in wine country. 

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

CHALK HILL’S 5TH ANNUAL WHITE PARTY ON THE HILL

Saturday, June 16th, 2PM – 5PM 
Chalk Hill Estates | 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA

As the estate’s most exclusive party of the summer, the annual White Party at Chalk Hill is not to be missed. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best all-white attire and join in celebrating the brand’s lineup of white wines. The event is held at Chalk Hill’s Ridge Park, nestled upon the highest crest of the iconic estate, where guests are welcome to soak up the summer sun on the expansive lawn, spend time under the native oaks, or take in the 360-degree views that include the Mayacama Mountains and Russian River, Alexander, and Knights Valley AVAs. An array of small bites will be prepared and provided by the culinary team, led by legendary Chef Larry Forgione, and entertainment such as a DJ and garden games will carry the guests through the afternoon. Tickets are $65 each and are available to purchase online. 

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, June 15th, 6PM – 9PM
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA

Taking the stage this week at Sebastiani, T-Luke & The Tight Suits will be providing musical delight with music that incorporates Louisiana roots along with their own flare that showcases a “fresh, bluesy, soulful, down-home sound.” Attendees will be able to sip on their favorite Sebastiani wine, available by-the-glass or by-the-bottle, while enjoying the evening. This family-friendly event is open to all, including well-behaved four-legged friends! Admission is free and no RSVP is required. 

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

LINCOURT SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, June 15th, 6PM – 9PM
Liincourt Vineyards | 1711 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, CA

Join Lincourt as they continue their Summer Concert series — no ticket or RSVP necessary! While local band T-Bone Ramblers plays live music, sip on Lincourt wines and grab a bite from Big Tom’s Backyard BBQ. 

CARMEL VALLEY ART & WINE CELEBRATION

Saturday, June 16th, 11AM – 5PM
Carmel Valley Village – Center Street | Carmel Valley, CA

The 14th annual Carmel Valley Art & Wine Celebration highlights local artists and winemakers in a day-long block party on Center Street in Carmel. Incredible artists will display a variety of media, including wood scultpures, jewelry, clothing, paintings, and more. Live musical performances will occur throughout the day and wine tasting options are available for purchase

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

THREE RIVERS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 

Friday, June 15th, 6:30PM – 9PM 
5641 Old Hwy 12, Walla Walla, WA 

Join Three Rivers Winery for a fun evening of local food, wine, and music! Gary Winston & The Real Deal will be taking the stage to provide the tunes, while guests can enjoy stunning views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding vineyards. Three Rivers wines will be available for purchase by the glass or by the bottle, with a happy hour glass pour special happening for attendees who arrive early. Walla Walla Tamales will be offering their delicious authentic Mexican food throughout the evening. The event is complimentary for Three Rivers Wine Club members, and $5/ticket for lawn seating. Additional options for table reservations are available. RSVP online or by calling 509-526-9463, ext 1. 

CELEBRATE WALLA WALLA VALLEY WINE: THE WORLD OF MERLOT 

June 14th – June 16th 
5641 Old Hwy 12, Walla Walla, WA 

More than 60 Walla Walla wineries, along with internationally-known guest winemakers and speakers, get together to explore one of the world’s most noble grape varieties: Merlot! Taste and compare wines from the Walla Walla Valley with wines from around the world during a captivating winemaker panel. Tickets are available online

What to Taste This Weekend

With several wines in each region earning recent acclaims, there are plenty of critics’ picks to try during your upcoming visit to wine country. But we also know every estate has its sleeper picks. You know what we’re talking about — those lesser-known varietals and limited release blends that make you wonder “How have I not tried this before?” or “Where have you been hiding this?”

So, in this installment of What to Taste This Weekend, here are our top choices for the best critics’ picks and sleeper wines to try at various FFWS tasting rooms this weekend.


THREE RIVERS WINERY | 5641 OLD HIGHWAY 12, WALLA WALLA, WA 

Critics’ Pick: 2014 Three Rivers Cabernet Sauvignon, Champoux Vineyard

Arguably known as Washington state’s most famous vineyard for Cabernet Sauvignon, the Champoux Vineyard has turned heads by providing highly coveted grapes that have yielded several 100-point scores from Robert Parker. Part of the magic could be that some of the blocks of this esteemed vineyard are among the oldest, if not the oldest, in the state. With only 140 cases produced, this Cabernet Sauvignon is swarming with notes of black fruit compote, espresso, and cured meat that impress. Complete in every way, start to luxurious finish. Pair this show-stopper with a dry aged, well marbled rib-eye with roasted tomatoes in a balsamic glaze. 

Sleeper Pick: 2016 Three Rivers Trivulet

Don’t let the name fool you (by the way, there’s no wrong way to pronounce it: Triv-you-lay or Triv-you-let – it’s a made up word!); this wine is hardly intimidating. In fact, that’s why it makes the cut as a “Sleeper Pick” – with 51% Cabernet Franc and 49% Merlot, one would think this 2016 vintage might be a bit on the young side. Wrong. It’s softness belies its age with aromatics of luxurious blueberries, fresh strawberries and a hint of violets. On the palate vibrant fresh fruit flavors are accented with hints of stone fruit that lead into a balanced and lengthy finish. Only 120 cases produced, so make sure to sample before it’s gone.


Learn More & Shop Three Rivers Wines


FOLEY JOHNSON | 8350 ST. HELENA HIGHWAY, RUTHERFORD, CA

Critics’ Pick: 2014 Foley Johnson Proprietary Red Meritage (92pts, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate)

“It is another striking value among the stratospherically priced wines of Napa. More floral than its counterpart, with more uplifted aromatics, but similar weight and richness, this full-bodied, pure, ripe, delicious and complex wine has attractive aromatics, medium to full body and velvety tannins.” – Wine Advocate

Sleeper Pick: 2012 Foley Johnson Estate Petit Verdot

Historically, the Petit Verdot grape has been used mostly as a blending grape; it has the reputation of being too powerful to bottle by itself. Lucky for Foley Johson, though, the Petit Verdot that grows on the property is very “user-friendly,” allowing the team to produce a beautiful and rare wine. 


Learn More & Shop Foley Johnson Wines


ROTH ESTATE | 10309 CHALK HILL ROAD,HEALDSBURG, CA

Critics’ Pick: 2015 Roth Merlot, Sonoma County (90pts, Wine Enthusiast)

“This is a seriously ripe, concentrated wine—a combination of 51% Syrah with Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Lively acidity keeps it from getting bogged down in its innately robust tannins and concentrated layers of leather, tobacco and baked plum.” – Wine Enthusiast

Sleeper Pick: 2017 Roth Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

Roth’s most acclaimed wines might included bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, but the soil of the nearby lowland sites adjacent to the Russian River provide zesty, citrus flavors and rich, elegant textures for Sauvignon Blanc. This bottle is a sophisticated and authentic expression of the estate fruit. 


Learn More & Shop Roth Wines


Want to read about more of our critic and sleeper picks? Read another edition of What to Taste This Weekend featuring wines from Eos Winery, Sebastiani, and The Four Graces. 

The Four Graces & Acrobat Highlight Recent Acclaims

Two great brands in the Foley Family Wines portfolio, The Four Graces and Acrobat, have been recognized by national publications for their outstanding wines.

Forbes named the 2016 The Four Graces Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley their “Wine of the Week” as they reviewed the range of expression found in American Pinot Noirs. Contributor Brian Freedman noted about the ’16 Pinot Noir:

This particular Pinot Noir also shows that well-crafted, accurate and honest bottlings don’t have to cost a proverbial fortune; at an SRP of $32, it’s the kind of wine that you can—and should!— pair with grilled meats and salmon (or nothing at all except a book and a lounge chair) throughout the summer, without worrying about the price tag.

Additionally, Acrobat’s 2017 Rosé of Pinot Noir was chosen by leading wine publication Wine Spectator as their Daily Wine Pick. Senior editor Tim Fish wrote:

Soft and easygoing, with floral strawberry flavors. Drink now. 

Both wines are available for purchase on the Foley Food & Wine Society Shop.

Wine Enthusiast Features Chalk Hill Sauvignon Blanc

Chalk Hill’s 2016 Estate Bottled Sauvignon Blanc has been featured as one of 25 “stunning Sauvies” from around the globe by Wine Enthusiast, as part of their July 2018 issue. 

Editors collaborated to come up with the list, highlighting their favorite recent releases that included products of both Old World and New World areas. They note about the Chalk Hill wine:

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.”

Previously awarded 93 points by Wine Enthusiast, the 2016 Chalk Hill Estate Sauvignon Blanc captures the exotic, vibrant, and complex fruit character of the estate-grown grapes. This wine is versatile and will pair well with your favorite appetizers or first course to your dinner.

Bottles of this Foley Food & Wine Society favorite are available for purchase in the Wine Shop.

Weekend Preview

Wine Country Weekend

It’s a jam-packed weekend at Foley Food & Wine Society properties, with events from Northern California all the way down to the Central Coast. Watch the video to learn more about how we’ll be spending this beautiful weekend, and see a couple other local happenings that we have out eye on below. 

SONOMA WINE COUNTRY

SEBASTIANI FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC SERIES

Friday, May 18th, 6PM – 9PM
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA

Enjoy live music from Third Rail, a versatile group that plays an eclectic mix of classic rock and country music, while sipping on your favorite Sebastiani wine (available by-the-glass or by-the-bottle). This family-friendly event is open to all, including well-behaved four-legged friends! Admission is free and no RSVP is required. 

THE LUTHER BURBANK ROSE PARADE & FESTIVAL

Saturday, May 19th, 9AM
Downtown Santa Rosa, CA

In its 124th year, The Luther Burbank Rose Parade & Festival brings thousands of participants and spectators to downtown Santa Rosa. It’s one of Sonoma County’s most time-honored traditions and one of the oldest and largest events of its kind in Northern California, where marching bands, floats, and others from the community parade down the streets. This year’s theme of “Together We Rose” honors the North Bay’s devastating fire storms of 2017. 

3RD ANNUAL SEBASTIANI ITALIAN FESTIVAL

Sunday, May 20th, 2PM – 5PM 
Sebastiani Vineyards | 389 Fourth Street East, Sonoma, CA 

Spend the afternoon sipping on Sebastiani wines paired with Mediterranean fare and festive live music! Our culinary team, lead by Executive Chef Larry Forgione, will be presenting culinary stations throughout the winery, featuring everything from Sun-dried Tomato-Asiago Arancini to Creamy Polenta with Three Meat Bolognaise, along with plenty of antipasti of crostini and charcuterie to taste in between. Buy tickets now — this event tends to sell out quickly!  

CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

LINCOURT SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Friday, May 18th, 6PM – 9PM
Lincourt Vineyards | 1711 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, CA

Help Lincourt kickoff their Summer Concert series — no ticket or RSVP necessary! Enjoy food, wine, and live music from LiveWire, a local band that performs an eclectic mix of genres that the whole family will enjoy. Big Tom’s Backyard BBQ famous tri-tip sandwiches will be available for purchase. 

CELEBRATION OF CHARDONNAY

Saturday, May 19th, 2PM – 5PM
Foley Estates | 6121 E Highway 246, Lompoc, CA

Join the team at Foley Estates for an unforgettable afternoon honoring their most prized white wine, the queen of Burgundy, Chardonnay.

Enjoy stunning views of the iconic Sta. Rita Hills AVA, live music from “Funker and a Cool,” and deliciously indulgent bites prepared by Foley Food & Wine Society’s acclaimed Chef Danelle Jarzynski, using locally sourced seafood and produce.

Tickets should be purchased in advance and are $50 for Foley Estates members ($75 for members of sister wineries and Foley Food & Wine Society members). 

35TH ANNUAL CALIFORNIA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

May 19th –  May 20th
Strawberry Meadows of College Park | 3250 South Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA

The California Strawberry Festival is the perfect summer kickoff! Boasting over 50 food booths, contests, rides and attractions, 200+ arts & crafts vendors, concerts…and all things strawberry, of course. Proceeds benefit various local community organizations and non-profits. Pro tip: purchase tickets online to avoide lines at the festival! 

LAKE COUNTY

2018 LAKE COUNTY WINE ADVENTURE 

May 19th –  May 20th
Langtry Estate | 21000 Butts Canyon Rd, Middletown, CA (in addition to other participating wineries)

Langtry Estate is participating in the 2018 Lake County Wine Adventure! Explore the Lake County wine region and discover its wonderful award-winning wines by visiting the 25+ wineries that are opening their doors as part of this two-day passport adventure. Tickets are available for either one-day or two-day, and are good for entry to all participating wineries. Purchase online or at the door. 

Foley Sonoma Kicks off Summer Art & Wine Series

On Friday, May 11th, Foley Sonoma kicked off their Friday Night Art & Wine Series, welcoming a lively crowd to celebrate an evening of food, music, art, and wine.

The event was the first in a summer-long series dedicated to bringing together local artists, musicians, and members of the community and featured artist Sheryl Chapman and the Ricky Ray Band.

“We just want to bring everyone out to the property and celebrate the summer in Alexander Valley,” said Foley Sonoma winemaker Courtney Foley.

In addition to art and music, guests were offered small bites prepared by Foley Food & Wine Society Executive Chef Larry Forgione.

“I enjoy being a member of the Foley Food and Wine Society because the experiences are always phenomenal,” said FFWS member and event attendee Jacob Tellez. “The settings are always beautiful, the people are always great and friendly, and it’s just a very wonderful environment to be in.”

The Friday Night Art & Wine series will continue on June 8th, with installments following on the second Friday of July and August. The event is free and family-friendly. For more information on this and other upcoming Foley Food & Wine Society events, visit our Events page.

Weekend Preview

We’re welcoming May with open arms — and a jam-packed weekend! From Cinco de Mayo at Foley Johnson to Friday Night Art & Wine at Foley Sonoma, there’s something for everyone.