Wine Tasting

California-based Uncorked Wine Festivals is bringing one of its popular wine-tasting extravaganzas to Wisconsin for the first time. 

“Uncorked: Milwaukee Wine Festival” is scheduled for Oct. 22 at the Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee. 

“This is sort of the wine-lover’s equivalent to the craft beer festival,” said Michelle Silberstein, who founded Uncorked Wine Festivals in 2015. “There’s really nothing else like it that tours around and brings together such a wide range of wineries.”

When attendees arrive, they’ll be given a logo wine tumbler for their tastings. 

There will be 40 tables with two or three wine options at each from “across the globe,” Silberstein said. Attendees can expect “a little bit” of “every varietal and style.”

Guests can go to “any or all” of the tables, chat with representatives from the wineries or supplier companies about the wines they’re offering, and try “a bunch of fun, different wines,” Silberstein said. 

“It was designed to be an event I would want to go to, first and foremost,” she said. 

Silberstein said her friends range from, “Maybe I’ll order a glass of house wine on happy hour,” to having wine club memberships at Napa and Sonoma wineries. 

“I wanted to create something that was an experience for all levels of wine aficionados or appreciators,” she said. “But also that has something for people to do in addition to just walking around and drinking.”

The event will span all three of the Mitchell Park Domes (floral show, desert and tropical) and its annex. And there will be food trucks on-site with eats available for purchase. 

Dress attire is requested, but not required, Silberstein said. She also recommended wearing comfortable shoes. 

General admission is $55, which includes access to the event, all wine tastings from 8 to 11 p.m., and the tumblr. VIP is $70, which includes access to the event, all wine tastings from 7 to 11 p.m. with special pours during that extra hour, and the tumblr. Tickets are available online at bit.ly/uncorkedmketickets. 

Uncorked Wine Festivals’ events have made it to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Phoenix, Kansas City, Chicago, Cleveland, Miami and Tampa, among others.

Silberstein grew up in a Florida household where wine was a part of the “dinner table culture.” She really got into it herself after college when she moved to California since there’s “so much great wine country” there. 

During her company’s inaugural year, she put on 10 fests — and has been upping that number since. Next year, she plans to do 18. 

“We’re growing and growing, which I’m very thankful for,” Silberstein said. 

For more information, visit the company’s Facebook page at facebook.com/uncorkedwinefestivals or the Uncorked: Milwaukee Wine Festival’s event page at bit.ly/uncorkedmke. 

Contact Hannah Kirby at hannah.kirby@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HannahHopeKirby.

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Over two glasses of albariño at Wellington’s Noble Rot, Jo Cribb talks to Kelly Dennett about enrolling in wine school, buying 4 hectares of grapes in Martinborough, and her new Instagram page, WineSauvy, which demystifies and recommends affordable wine.

Sunday Star-Times: Thank you for choosing the wine

Jo Cribb: What a pretty colour

It is a lovely colour, sort of gold.

So you can kind of smell the sauvy undertones, but it’ll have a bit more floral in it, like a jasmine. You’re probably getting the peach as well.

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I’m getting a buttery smell.

Totally, totally. She’s quite tasty, eh? She takes you to some cafe at a beach in Spain.

Have you always been a wine drinker?

At university it was beer and cider. I grew up in the South Island, so probably not wine. [Jo’s partner] and I were always really interested in wine and at one stage we had a really good cellar, and then we went overseas and drank it all in two nights.

Ross Giblin/Stuff

Jo Cribb has been studying wine, which led to her buying a winery.

How much?

It was heaps. We didn’t do it by ourselves, we just decided not to put it into storage. Then I can remember travelling a lot and being exposed to vin de pays, the French wine in plastic 2-litre containers, and knowing it tasted different.Now I think we’ve got to the stage where we drink a lot less, but are being more adventurous.

Then you launched your wine studies.

I enrolled in a New Zealand School of Wine and Spirits level one, one-day course at Noble Rot, and that was interesting, so I did level two, which was a bit more demanding, but it taught me that, I might know 10 grape varieties, but there’s something like 10,000 in the world.

Then I did level three, which is getting into professional level. I had to sit wine tasting exams. I use the analogy of mindfulness. I’ll sit and smell it for a very long time, because that’s where the taste comes from. You only have to take a sip, and it’s a whole world adventure.

I’m reminded during lockdown that we don’t go out to dinner simply because we don’t want to cook, it’s going out to be with your friends and family, and it made me think about going out for a glass of wine completely differently.

The more I think we understand and appreciate this, I think we end up drinking much less, but appreciating it much more. I don’t even say necessarily much more expensive just…

Smarter choices?

Smarter choices. So I’ve just started my diploma, which is two years, part-time, which is incredibly intense. You become totally knowledgeable to an nth degree about wine. People ask me, ‘what are you going to do with it?’ And I say, I don’t know – and it’s quite nice not to.

Ross Giblin/Stuff

The best kind of wine? The one you’re drinking, says Jo Cribb.

Is wine pretentious? Can anyone get into wine and become knowledgeable about it?

Totally. I was talking to a friend who works in the wine industry, and she watched how someone would come in and be approached: ‘That’s just a woman, we’ll send her to the sauv section and get her a cheap one’. You know? I’ve had that happen to me. In a restaurant, they’ll hand the wine list to my husband and it’s like, well, I’m halfway through my diploma, I think I can navigate that.

What do you drink now?

I can’t pick a favourite child any more. My favourite one is the one that’s in my glass that I’m enjoying. There’s time when you need to drink bubbles and there’s time when you need to drink a really, in-your-face, paint-stripper shiraz. I think [the question is], what is the best wine for the occasion?

BROOK SABIN

Wake up among the vines, and the day just gets better from there.

Ever met a bottle of wine you didn’t like?

Yep. We did a whole session on spumante, which is really, really sweet Italian bubble, and it felt like the equivalent of drinking toilet freshener. But, if we were on an incredibly hot day in a piazza in Italy, I guarantee it’s the best thing on the planet, right?

There’s no style that you defer to?

It would be very sacrilegious of me to say [but] I would probably avoid a Marlborough sauv.

Tell me about the buying of the vineyard.

I think it was only the wine lessons to give us the confidence. We started running the numbers, and we’ve bought 4 hectares of sauv grapes, and we’ve got a build site. So it’s a business, but eventually we’ll live there. My husband said, we might as well buy something productive. But, what a learning curve.

I bet. Whose idea was it?

We were over there for a long weekend, and we walked down the main street of Greytown, and they had so many real estate agents, we didn’t even think we could buy plots that big, or in our range, but they are, we could, we did, just like that.

How long before seeing all of these real estate agents and taking possession?

Four months.

Oh, that’s quick! And so they’re growing now?

They’re 15 years old. There’s nothing at the moment, we’ve basically bought a paddock full of twigs, 9000 twigs. It’s a leap of faith. Over the last few weeks I’ve been researching and purchasing a frost-fan.

To keep them safe in winter?

Yes, they flower around September, which is also spring frost. If they get frosted [the bugs] fall off. What a steep learning curve. I think I needed to have done the study to understand grapes, to understand what to buy, how it all fits in. So we knew what we were looking for, so we could look at the vines and see they were OK. So I’m farming grapes now. Then it goes to a producer. I don’t think we’ll ever make wine of our own, I think they’re better off with somebody else, but we know where they’ll end up, so that’s exciting.

Are they fermented on-site?

They go somewhere else. We harvest and ship very quickly, because they’re sauv grapes, they need to move quickly. They’re mechanically harvested, there’s no skipping around with baskets.

Ross Giblin/Stuff

Jo Cribb and her partner bought 4 hectares of grapes.

Do you visit them?

We do, we have a picnic, and talk to them. My dad likes a good Aussie red, so we took him out there to talk to the grapes as well. He’s really excited and asking lots of questions, so it’s kind of like the family is growing grapes.

What are the basic things someone needs to know to choose a wine?

Great question. I think they need to know what they like, where the wine will be drunk – within reason. Are we drinking bubbles or a rich red? What are you going to be doing with it? Some wines you can’t drink alone – like this albariño – you have to have food with it. Will my friends like it? It’s like a jigsaw.

You don’t need to know about tannins, and acidity?

You don’t need to know about that. [For example] you came in today and said I’m after a crisp, fresh, refreshing wine. Google will tell you sauvignon, maybe a German riesling. Then you can go, OK I’ve got $20, I’m drinking with friends and they like this… it starts to narrow. I just encourage people to try. I think with a wee bit of effort, we can get a huge amount of return for our wine choices.

There’s so much. Santorini, right? In Greece, because it’s a volcanic island, they train their vines into little nests and grow their vines in there. And then once you taste their wines, you can taste, I don’t know, the salty, volcanic… you can taste where they come from.

We can go travelling with our wine.

Because we’re not allowed to travel. In the weekend, we might go to Italy.

*Jo Cribb is sampling 300 wines under $30 and documenting her winery journey – search @WineSauvy on Instagram. Kelly Dennett is making every effort to break out of her sauvignon bubble.

Supplied

Jess Bell, Esk Valley wine marketing specialist.

How to pair wine with takeaways

Cut through the oily flavours of a takeaway with a bit of acidity. Stand up to that eye fillet with a hearty merlot malbec blend, or match your salty seafood with something fresh that reminds you of the ocean. A degustation dinner or a restaurant-quality meal is not a prerequisite if you’re wanting to up the synergy of your dinner and wine pairings. In fact, a self-cooked meal isn’t a prerequisite.

Villa Maria wine marketing specialist Jess Bell’s personal ethos is, if you like a wine and you like a food, even if they’re not technically the perfect pairing, you’re going to enjoy them. “A great pairing isn’t the pinnacle,” Bell says. “If you go into the science of wine pairing, you can get into so many rules, but a lot of them contradict themselves. When I’m talking about when and food pairing in particular, for me it’s more about weight and balance.”

Bell says for greasy or fatty foods, look to wines with acidity or sweetness, like a pinot gris, riesling, or a zesty, citrusy sauv blanc (Esk Valley pinot gris, 2021, or Esk Valley artisanal albariño 2021). A meal with lots of different ingredients or toppings, like pizza, can work well with an all-rounder, like a Rose (Esk Valley Estate rosé 2021). Takeaways with a hearty red meat component, like a cheeseburger or steak, could do well with a weighty red blend (Esk Valley Estate merlot cabernet sauvignon malbec 2019).

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MADISON, Wis. — America’s Dairyland is home to some big dairy competitions, and one of them was held this week. 

The 2021 World Dairy Expo Dairy Product Championships is hosted by the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association. 

“It’s a very unique contest. It’s the only one of its kind in the world,” said Brad Legreid, executive director of the WDPA. “There’s no other contest involves all dairy products. So we run the full spectrum from cheese, butter, ice cream, food, milk, yogurt, sour cream, whey— you name it.” 

Thursday was ice cream day. There were 400 samples of ice cream from 42 states across the country. 

Fourteen judges were hard at work, tasting each tub of ice cream, and filling out their judging forms. 

“They’re the best dairy sensory experts in the country,” Legreid said. “They are the top-shelf people.” 

There was tons of dairy chatter throughout the room. “What do you think of the body?” one judge asked. “I like this ice cream; it doesn’t go gummy. It’s a long-bodied product.” 

“It’s phenomenal— these companies are sending in the best of the best,” Legreid said. “So when you taste some of these samples, you’re in heaven.” 

Well, not always. The judges didn’t hold back. One described a certain type of ice cream as “like eating sand,” while others spat out a mouthful of ice cream, as if they were wine tasting. 

A Wisconsin-favorite, Chocolate Shoppe, managed to make a good impression.

“I can’t find a single fault with this,” one judge said of its vanilla. 

They even called over another judge. “Texture is good, dairy ingredients are good, sweetener’s right on target.” 

After having to skip last year’s competition, just being able to taste together is a treat. 

“What you have to understand about the dairy industry, it is such a close-knit industry,” Legreid said. “When I started years ago, they said once you get in the industry, you’ll never leave. And that’s true, because you make so many friends.” 

Legreid said the WDPA will announce the winners soon. 

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Originally Appeared Here

Investors from 13 countries are looking to bid on the renowned 329-year-old Morgenhof winery located on the slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch during a virtual auction next week Wednesday (August 25).

The winery held an open day viewing last weekend, ahead of the planned auction.

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“At the moment buyers from 13 countries have registered interest in bidding for the 210-hectare estate,” says High Street Auctions director and lead auctioneer Joff van Reenen, adding that the first of two viewings was attended by interested buyers from South Africa and several others who flew in from abroad.

Potential investors are from South Africa, Australia, China, Germany, Belgium, Lesotho, India, Italy, France, England, Kenya, Canada and the United States.

Read:

Wine industry: Ban lifted a little too late

The devastating effect of lockdowns on SA’s wine industry

“There are multiple potential investors from three countries, namely South Africa, England and the US,” according to Van Reenen.

He says several international buyers have confirmed that they will be flying to South Africa this week to attend the second viewing day taking place at the farm this coming weekend, adding that “viewing is strictly by appointment only”.

SA/US joint venture

In a South African first, Morgenhof is being auctioned in a joint venture with US auction company Tranzon, which has representative offices across the US.

“Tranzon is fielding numerous inquiries from American investors [who are] very interested in buying a premium winery in South Africa.

“Interestingly, several of those communications have come from potential investors based in America’s premier wine-growing region, Napa Valley, in California,” says Van Reenen.

“Others are from the US East Coast, the Washington DC area and from Florida.”

Vines and wines

According to Van Reenen: “Morgenhof’s portfolio of wines includes a mixture of reds and whites, ranging from the fresh Sauvignon Blanc to the barrel-fermented Chenin Blanc. The red wine range offers a selection of iconic single varietal wines including a revered Merlot and a vibrant Pinotage, as well as a Bordeaux-style blend that is also the flagship of the Morgenhof range.”

He says the vineyards are farmed as ‘dry land’, which results in smaller yields and superior concentrations in the berries. The estate comprises a variety of soil types, with the terroir further complimented by altitudes ranging from 40-400 metres above sea level.

The built infrastructure improvements on Morgenhof include:

• The pristinely restored 450m² main manor house comprising five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a lounge, dining room and kitchen as well as a wraparound open terrace paved in terracotta tiles and a splash pool;
• The Top House, a second manor of 730m² elevated among the vineyards – this two-storey Cape Dutch style dwelling has four bedrooms, attached staff quarters and its own private swimming pool;
• A 600-ton capacity wine cellar;
• Underground barrel fermentation hall;
• Wine tasting room and terrace;
• Restaurant;
• Wedding chapel;
• Conference venue with attached catering facilities;
• Bistro and coffee shop;
• Office block; and
• Staff accommodation of various types.

• 

  The cellar.

• 

  The tasting area.

• 

  The manor house.

• 

  The conference venue.

• 

  The manor house.

All images supplied.

Van Reenen says the winery is being auctioned as a going concern, with all furniture, fixtures and fittings, as well as the contents of the wine cellar, included in the sale.

Investment case

“This is an established and well-diversified business with multiple income streams that offers a new owner with vision, massive potential to expand.

“Substantially adding to the attraction of the estate itself is the fact that it will be auctioned on August 25th with considerable foreign exchange and assessed tax loss incentives that would be extremely beneficial to the eventual buyer.”

Morgenhof is owned by Anne Cointreau, whose family has produced wine, champagne and spirits in France since 1272.

Her great-grandfather Adolphe created the famous orange liqueur that carries the family name, and her grandfather the luxury Remy Martin brand of cognac.

The estate is one of South Africa’s viticulture pioneers. Dating back to 1692, one can trace its rich wine-making history back to the French Huguenots.

Palesa Mofokeng is a Moneyweb intern.

Listen to Melitta Ngalonkulu’s interview with Siwela Masoga of Siwela Wines (or read the transcript here):

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Marina city leaders heard bids during a meeting Tuesday for what would become Marina’s largest hotel, to be located across from The Dunes shopping center on Imjin Parkway next to Highway 1.

“For the past four months, we have been working with these four hotel groups that have made various proposals,” City Manager Layne Long said during the meeting. “We’ve been working with them to crystalize those proposals, understand what they are and we’ve been trying to standardize them with the revenue and what exactly they’re going to be bringing in.”

Representatives from Blackridge Colorado, Petrovich 53d Partners and Cambria Hotels, Kuber Arizona, and Dadwal Management Group were the four groups that made presentations for their hotel plans to the council.

Scott McChesney with Blackridge Group spoke first, discussing the firm’s industry connections and long track record while explaining their proposal would bring AC Hotels and Residence Inn branding from Marriott.

Marina plans on building its largest hotel at this site at Imjin Parkway and Second Avenue next to Highway 1. (Tom Wright – Monterey Herald)

“We’ve been to the site, we’ve had architectural work done on it, we’ve spent time looking at prevailing wage issues with the project as well as the fees associated with the project,” McChesney said. “We’ve done a detailed pro forma by looking at the hotel performances in the area as well as underwriting all of the associated costs of operating in that market. So we feel pretty confident in the numbers and how we would be able to operate efficiently.”

Paul Petrovich of Petrovich Development Co. said he’s been a developer for 40 years and he provides his own cash equity for his projects. Petrovich said he’s a Monterey Peninsula resident and wants to bring Hilton’s luxury LXR brand to the site. The plan would include a 300-room hotel and a 40,000-square-foot Concours Hall of Fame with rare cars in homage to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Classic Car Week.

“We are not wanting nor would we want to take this property and develop … some sort of lower-level Hyatt or Marriott project here,” he said. “This is too precious of real estate and the importance of it, revenue-wise, to the community and what it can bring as a sense of place is our goal here.”

Jason Bass with Kuber Companies said their plan would be to develop an AC Retreat by Marriott with 160 rooms and an Element by Marriott with 140 rooms. The hotels would be paired with an event center, office space and retail sites. He said because of weather and its location next to Highway 1, a luxury hotel would not work best at the site.

“We examined really what is that demographic (of potential customers) and what’s the demand, but we also wanted to balance our decision on branding with the location and demographics of the community,” Bass said. “What made sense to fit with the overall feel of Marina? And what would be the best way to optimize the economics for the city?”

Harvey Dadwal, president and CEO of Monterey Peninsula Hotels Group, was the final presenter. Dadwal is a Monterey County resident as well as the owner and operator of the SpringHill Suites by Marriott at the Dunes On Monterey Bay. His proposal would include an 8,000-square-foot conference center, an organic greenhouse farm-to-table restaurant with rooftop dining and a wine-tasting venue.

“The way I have designed this building and incorporating eco-resort features will make the city of Marina a destination place,” he said. “I have spoken to Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton and we have all kinds of brands available on this site. This is very unique and one of the most beautiful sites on the Monterey Peninsula.”

Long said the discussion will continue on how the hotel plans will fit in with the city in future meetings.

“We’ve heard it from the public as well as our presenters: This is really a unique property on the Monterey Peninsula, one of the last large ones on the coastline to be developed and this can define our city not only in aesthetics and view but also financially in the revenue it will bring,” he said.

 

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Grab your friends and go wine tasting at the historic Loveland Castle.Hidden near the banks of the Little Miami River in Loveland stands a medieval castle built by hand that many people have no idea that it even exists.The name of the castle is Chateau Laroche or Castle of Rock. But it’s better known as the Loveland Castle.Enjoy a glass of wine while overlooking the Little Miami River while sitting in the Loveland Castle gardens. The Loveland Castle will be flowing with string lights and fire pits.The event is being held on Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.There will be live entertainment provided from Jeff Tucker.Participants must be 21 and older. Tickets cost $50 per person and are limited due to limited parking.Click here to learn more or purchase tickets.Harry Andrews built the Loveland Castle, he was a Renaissance man. Andrews spoke seven languages, served in World War I and had an architectural degree from Colgate University.His love for medieval times led to the creation of the historic structure in Loveland, the House of Rock, which is a one-fifth replica of the castle in France.Construction started in the 1920s, but Andrews didn’t really get to focus on it until retiring from his job as a building engineer in the 1950s. He went to work with help from youngsters who played around the river and helped carry the rocks that make up the castle.Day after day, he would go down to the river, collecting stones to add to the foundation, taking his time mixing the rock with cement. When he couldn’t find any rocks, Andrews used makeshift bricks built from donated milk cartons. The castle was finally ready for visitors in 1980.A lover of medieval culture, Andrews defied critics when he started the project. Many doubted the structure would hold, nearly 89 years later the castle is still intact and a big tourist attraction for the area – with over 30,000 people passing”Here it is. He died in 1981 and it’s 2019 and we’re still working on it. Not only did he make us knights, but he left us a castle,” Sir Joe said.Sir Joe is a part of the Knights of the Golden Trail, a group that was started by Andrews. Their only vows are the Ten Commandments and to keep the castle running.The door to the castle is unique, housing more than 2,000 nails and shifted wood so that no one can break it down.The first level of the castle once housed Andrews’ office, kitchen and game room.Getting upstairs is an adventure of its own. One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter the castle is that the staircases are narrow and windy, much like castles across the world.”They built these steps narrow and windy, so only one person could go up at a time, so an arrow won’t go around the curve and you couldn’t sword fight in them. So if a night was at the top of the stairs, he could defend him against an army,” Sir Joe said.You will also find Andrews’ bedroom and the grand hall inside. Every arch and even the dome in his bedroom is handcrafted and can withstand the test of time.The throne room is the newest portion of the castle built in the 1950s. It houses stones from all over the world.The last room on the north wing resembles a place where knights in medieval times would rest.”One person could protect the entire room, arrows couldn’t get in and you see north, south, east and west in this room right here,” Sir Joe said.After nearly 100 years and thousands of sacks of cement and rock, Chateau Laroche continues to entertain those who come through its stone foundation.Now, it operates as a museum and history exhibit of its founder.

LOVELAND, Ohio —

Grab your friends and go wine tasting at the historic Loveland Castle.

Hidden near the banks of the Little Miami River in Loveland stands a medieval castle built by hand that many people have no idea that it even exists.

The name of the castle is Chateau Laroche or Castle of Rock. But it’s better known as the Loveland Castle.

Enjoy a glass of wine while overlooking the Little Miami River while sitting in the Loveland Castle gardens. The Loveland Castle will be flowing with string lights and fire pits.

The event is being held on Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

There will be live entertainment provided from Jeff Tucker.

Participants must be 21 and older. Tickets cost $50 per person and are limited due to limited parking.

Click here to learn more or purchase tickets.

Harry Andrews built the Loveland Castle, he was a Renaissance man. Andrews spoke seven languages, served in World War I and had an architectural degree from Colgate University.

His love for medieval times led to the creation of the historic structure in Loveland, the House of Rock, which is a one-fifth replica of the castle in France.

Construction started in the 1920s, but Andrews didn’t really get to focus on it until retiring from his job as a building engineer in the 1950s. He went to work with help from youngsters who played around the river and helped carry the rocks that make up the castle.

Day after day, he would go down to the river, collecting stones to add to the foundation, taking his time mixing the rock with cement. When he couldn’t find any rocks, Andrews used makeshift bricks built from donated milk cartons. The castle was finally ready for visitors in 1980.

A lover of medieval culture, Andrews defied critics when he started the project. Many doubted the structure would hold, nearly 89 years later the castle is still intact and a big tourist attraction for the area – with over 30,000 people passing

“Here it is. He died in 1981 and it’s 2019 and we’re still working on it. Not only did he make us knights, but he left us a castle,” Sir Joe said.

Sir Joe is a part of the Knights of the Golden Trail, a group that was started by Andrews. Their only vows are the Ten Commandments and to keep the castle running.

The door to the castle is unique, housing more than 2,000 nails and shifted wood so that no one can break it down.

The first level of the castle once housed Andrews’ office, kitchen and game room.

Getting upstairs is an adventure of its own. One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter the castle is that the staircases are narrow and windy, much like castles across the world.

“They built these steps narrow and windy, so only one person could go up at a time, so an arrow won’t go around the curve and you couldn’t sword fight in them. So if a night was at the top of the stairs, he could defend him against an army,” Sir Joe said.

You will also find Andrews’ bedroom and the grand hall inside. Every arch and even the dome in his bedroom is handcrafted and can withstand the test of time.

The throne room is the newest portion of the castle built in the 1950s. It houses stones from all over the world.

The last room on the north wing resembles a place where knights in medieval times would rest.

“One person could protect the entire room, arrows couldn’t get in and you see north, south, east and west in this room right here,” Sir Joe said.

After nearly 100 years and thousands of sacks of cement and rock, Chateau Laroche continues to entertain those who come through its stone foundation.

Now, it operates as a museum and history exhibit of its founder.

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Originally Appeared Here

Please send your events, meetings, etc., to PGriffin1@gannett.com at least 2 weeks in advance. 

Destin City Hall  

All city meetings are being held at the City Hall Annex, 4100 Indian Bayou Trail, until further notice. All meetings are subject to change or cancellation. To virtually view the meeting, https://www.cityofdestin.com/. To view/stream is www.youtube.com/CityofDestin.  

• Town Center CRA-AC, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 18 

• Local Planning Agency 5:30 p.m. Aug. 26 

• Parks & Recreation,  4 p.m. Aug. 28 

Wednesday Night Concert Series 

Enjoy free live entertainment with The HooDoos from 7-9 p.m. Aug. 18 on the Events Plaza stage at The Village of Baytowne Wharf.:  

 • Aug. 25: Big Al & The Heavyweights 

• Sept. 1: Forrest Williams Band 

 • Sept. 8: Chris Alvarado 

 • Sept. 15: Will Thompson Band 

 • Sept. 22: Cadillac Willy 

 • Sept. 29: Jessie Ritter    

• Oct. 6: Boukou Groove 

• Oct. 13: The Pickled Pickers 

• Oct. 20: Modern Eldorados 

• Oct. 27: Forrest Williams Band 

Cissy’s Grand Opening 

Destin’s newest coffee and sandwich shop, Cissy’s Scenic 98 Café, will host a grand opening celebration, complete with a ribbon cutting from the Destin Chamber of Commerce, on Aug. 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. 

Chateau d’Esclans Wine Tasting 

The Courtyard at Pescado in Rosemary Beach will host a Chateau d’Esclans Wine Tasting on Aug. 19 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Dress to impress in rose, blush, and cream while enjoying live music by David Seering, wine, appetizers, and more. A full bar available for purchase. This is a private event with limited tickets available. Tickets are $75 plus 7% tax and 22% gratuity. Please email events@thelcrg.com to purchase.  

Summer Storytime on the Lawn   

Cuddlers and Toddlers Storytime is continuing through the summer at 10 a.m. every Thursday and run approximately 20 minutes. Come enjoy Tails & Tales themed stories while waiting for the weekly Summer Reading events to begin at 10:30 a.m. Get more information  at cityofdestin.com/655/Summer-Reading. If you have any questions, call 837-8572 or email library@cityofdestin.com.  

Central Square Cinema 

Grab a blanket and watch “Zootopia” at 8 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Seaside Amphitheater. Free and open to the public.  

• Aug. 27: Tangled   

Endless Summer Concerts 

Keep the summer going by enjoying live music with The Shakedown at 7 p.m. Aug. 21 on the Main Stage at HarborWalk Village. On-site parking fee is $10. 

• Aug. 28: Grape Drink  

Arsenic & Old Lace 

Stage Crafters presents its third production of its 49th season, Arsenic & Old Lace, Aug. 20-22 and 27-29 at the Fort Walton Beach Civic Auditorium. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees are at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online at www.stagecraftersfwb.com or at the door.  

Family History Center 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Family History Center, 339 Lake Drive in Fort Walton Beach, is now open. Open hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. Call 850-244-3338 to make appointment.  

Blood Drive by One Blood 

One Blood will be hosting a blood drive in the parking lot outside at Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl & Grill at Destin Commons from 12-6 p.m. Aug. 28.  

Baytowne Art & Food Fest 

Village of Baytowne Wharf hosts Perfect Hues: Baytowne Art & Food Fest from 5-10 p.m. Sept. 3-5. Stroll The Village streets and browse a variety of artwork from local and regional artists. Savor bites from some of the area’s best restaurants and food trucks. Enjoy live music throughout the festival and a fireworks show over the lagoon on Sunday at 9:30.  

Arts & Drafts 

Stroll along the Destin harbor as you experience an evening filled with live music and seasonal craft beer samplings from local and regional breweries from 6-9 p.m. Sept. 3. Interact with various local artisans as they create unique art or take part in the community art project. Each sampling is 5oz. and requires two tokens. Must be 21 or older to purchase a token package. Purchase at the event or in advance at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07eiaroio6e2370686&llr=hyor7zuab. On-site parking fee is $10. 

Labor Day Celebration 

Send off summer with live music by Flash Flood at 7 p.m. Sept. 4 and Tobacco Road at 7 p.m. Sept. 5 at HarborWalk Village. Fireworks and Fire Spinning by Autumn Lyfe at 9 p.m. Sunday. On-site parking fee $10.  

Taste of  the Season 

Enjoy a sampling of the season and special subscription rates at Taste of the Season launch party with the ECTC tribe on Thursday, Sept 9, from 6:30-8 p.m. at ECTC’s performance space. The event is free and open to the public. 

Fall Flair 

The Destin United Methodist Women will host their annual Fall Flair Arts and Crafts Show in the Destin Life Center, 200 Beach Street, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 10, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 11. Vendors and artists will be selling their crafts, baked goods, handmade jewelry and more. There will also be food and a silent auction.  

Hops for Hounds 

The Fourth Annual Hops for Hounds will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 12 at Destin Commons. Sample beers from nine breweries at each of the murals while strolling through the Commons with your pup. The $35 ticket includes beer, light bites, a doggy swag bag for first 100 people to register, and festivities. Funds raised will help Dog-Harmony launch new 2021 local area shelter enrichment programs. Please no prong, shock or choke collars.  

Bubbly Baytowne 

Baytowne Wharf hosts an evening full of free champagne and shopping during Bubbly Baytowne at 5 p.m. Sept. 16 and Oct. 21. Check in by the fountain to receive a complimentary Baytowne Wharf glass and a map outlining specific merchants to visit starting at 5 p.m. This event is free and for 21 and up only.   

ECTC Productions 

ECTC’s professional 2021-2022 Professional productions begin with “Nunsense” Sept. 17-Oct. 3. All professional productions are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. at ECTC’s space upstairs at 560 Grand Boulevard in Grand Boulevard. 

• Dec. 9-19: “Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play” Two shows on Sunday, Dec 19 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, Dec.16, at 10 a.m., Educational Matinee.  

• Jan. 21-23, Feb. 10-13, March 3-6: “The Marvelous Wonderettes” Cabaret Stage: Musical Revue 

• Jan. 28-Feb. 6:  “Miss Abigail’s Guide to Dating, Mating & Marriage”  

International Talk Like a Pirate Day 

Ahoy Matey! Join the Village of Baytowne Wharf from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sept. 17 for a free evening full of adventure with special guest Captain Davy. Come dressed in your best pirate costume and get ready for a scavenger hunt, magic show, costume contests, and more.  

Throwback Thursday Cinema 

Enjoy a free movie on the big-screen during Baytowne Wharf’s Throwback Thursday Cinema at 7 p.m. Sept. 23 and Oct. 28. All movies are family-friendly and open to the public. Grab you blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy this week’s featured film.  

ArtsQuest Fine Art  Festival 

ArtsQuest, produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, will be held Oct. 8-10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Grand Boulevard.  

Festival of the Arts 

Known as one of Northwest Florida’s premier fine arts shows, the MKAF Destin Festival of the Arts is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. The 26th annual event is set for Oct. 30-31 at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village in Destin and is free for attendees.  

Destin Woman’s Club 

The Annual Fashion Show held by the Destin Woman’s Club has been cancelled this year due to the Covid virus. The Fashion Show for 2021 has been scheduled for Nov. 5.  As their major fundraiser, net proceeds go toward the Club’s Family Assistance Fund designed to help local families and a local charity. 

RECURRING EVENTS 

Destin Community Center 

All activities are at the Destin Community Center, unless noted. Call 654-5184 or email recreation@cityofdestin.comfor information and to register. Persons with disabilities who require assistance are asked to notify the center 48 hours in advance. 

Pickleball: Sessions are Mondays from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Fee is $3/session. Racquets and balls are available, just bring your gym shoes. 

Table Tennis: Play from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Paddles and balls provided. Fee is $2/resident and $3/non-resident. 

Senior Programs 

All activities are at the Destin Community Center, unless noted. Call 654-5184 or email recreation@cityofdestin.com for information and to register. Persons with disabilities who require assistance are asked to notify the center 48 hours in advance.  

— Destin Senior Membership: Join the Destin Seniors to enjoy multiple festivities including the senior lunch bunch, potluck, casino trips, cruises, bingo, chair exercise, knitting, scrabble, and Mexican dominoes. Members must be a Destin resident. 

— Senior Book Club: The Destin Senior Members meet at 10 a.m. the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Destin Library, 150 Sibert Ave. 

— Senior Drop-In Hours: The Destin Senior Center at Buck Destin Park, 724 Legion Drive, offers senior drop-in hours from 9 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and Thursday for Seniors (50 years and older) to meet and enjoy each other’s company, participate in games such as Mexican Train Dominoes, Scrabble, cards, etc. 

— Senior Walking Club: The Destin Senior Members walk around the Destin Community Center’s gymnasium from 8-9 a.m. Monday-Friday. All of the miles that you walk will be added to the “team map” as we travel from one region to the next. The team’s miles are reported on the 4th Friday of each month at the Destin Senior Membership’s Potluck. 

— Destin Senior Chair Exercise 50+ years: Monday and Wednesday mornings from 10-10:45 a.m. at Buck Destin Park consists of performing light exercises to help improve balance, flexibility, strength, and circulation. Free/residents. 

Book Club 

The Destin Library’s Novel Idea Book Club is open to adults and meets every fourth Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. via Microsoft Teams. Club members can submit book recommendations – primarily fiction with the occasional non-fiction title – and the club will vote on which ones to read. Membership is open to everyone; however, you will need an Okaloosa County Public Library card to check-out materials. Members will need an email address and internet access to join the discussion. 

City of Destin Annual Passes 

Full-time residents (within the incorporated city limits) are encouraged to submit their request for a 2021 Annual Pass at https://www.cityofdestin.com/342/Annual-Passes. For those who do not have internet access, beach parking passes are only available at City Hall. Henderson Beach State Park and Joe’s Bayou Boat Ramp passes are available at both City Hall and the Destin Community Center. For questions, call 837-4242. 

Adopt-A-Street 

The City of Destin’s Adopt-A-Street Program allows local families, businesses and community groups to perform a valuable community service by adopting sections of a street to keep clear of litter and debris. Groups who participate in this program will have their name listed on the City’s website and signage installed on their adopted street. For more information, call 837-6869 or email adoptastreet@cityofdestin.com. 

Grand Boulevard Farmers Market 

Grand Boulevard Farmers Market takes place every Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grand Park in the heart of Grand Boulevard in South Walton. Bring your shopping bag and load up on local produce, eggs, jams and pies. Homemade soap, good olive oil, and pickled things are all there for the taking.  

Rosemary Beach Farmers Market 

Come browse the 30A Farmers Market in Rosemary Beach on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The local farmers market takes place on Sundays year round, and Thursdays throughout the summer months, in North Barrett Square along Scenic 30A. 

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When the coronavirus pandemic temporarily halted tourist traffic and shuttered restaurants and bars throughout New Mexico, Black Mesa Winery in Velarde had an inventory of wine and hard cider worth $100,000 and fewer avenues to deliver its products to customers. Winery owners Jerry and Lynda Burd were able to keep products moving out the door through online wine tasting events, shipments to wine club members, and creative drive-by tours that kept customers engaged.

The slowdown also gave the Burds time to examine all aspects of their operation and to consider changes that could streamline processes, open new markets and increase market share when the pandemic ended.

The Burds sought help from New Mexico Manufacturing Extension Partnership (New Mexico MEP), a nonprofit organization that helps businesses transform their operations to improve production, competitiveness, and profitability. New Mexico MEP Innovation Director Scott Bryant worked with the couple and their 12 employees to help them evaluate the entire production line.

Bryant broke down each step involved in producing Black Mesa Winery’s 30 different wines and four flavors of cider. He identified how the winery could improve material handling safety, simplify some aspects of production and adopt new manufacturing technologies appropriate to its capacity and volume.

To improve efficiency, Bryant suggested shortening the distance between production and shipping operations to minimize the time spent filling orders. He also urged the Burds to close the gaps between different production processes by adding wheels to equipment that is used at multiple places on the property. This modification, which could be done by a local machinist or welder, would allow equipment to be moved as needed around a dedicated space in the facility that is closer to the storage tanks.

“What Scott challenged us to do is question how do you make this happen more quickly, how do you make the process flow,” said Jerry. “You make the wine flow through a hose; you don’t move the tanks. You make the cider flow from beginning to end in one building. He helped us to see how a minute here and a minute there adds up to a lot in a year.”

The evaluation process allowed the winery to retain three otherwise idle employees and identified small changes that resulted in cost savings of $50,000 — a large number for a small business during a pandemic.

“We’re not working any longer hours and we’re not working harder,” Jerry said. “We are getting more done.”

The seeds New Mexico MEP planted are now part of a continuous process of improvement at the winery. Some of Bryant’s advice remains posted on a wall. When questions arise, Jerry replies, “Remember what Scott said,” as he points to the wall.

The Burds are also testing a new technology-packaging system they learned about from Bryant. If their experiments deliver positive results, customers will be delighted and the winery will save costs related to transportation, shipping and cleaning. The change could increase market share and help the winery expand into new markets.

“The same old, same old, was not going to work, and you want to come out of this being able to hit the ground running,” Jerry said.

Black Mesa Winery has emerged from the pandemic stronger than before. Sales in 2021 are ahead of 2019, and cider production has more than doubled. As the only cidery using 100 percent New Mexico grown apples, sourced from Taos to Española, Black Mesa Winery is also helping develop the rural economy.

The Finance New Mexico project connects individuals and businesses with skills and funding resources for their business or idea. To learn more, go to FinanceNewMexico.org.

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It is hard to believe summer is nearly over for most of us. The weather has been beautiful and it has been so nice to see everyone out. As we imagined, we are seeing COVID cases rise again and it is still very important for all of us to stay vigilant and follow CDC guidelines.

Also, I ask all residents to please watch out for children while driving. Schools are back in session and more children will be out walking, biking, and scooting throughout the day. Please be cautious while driving and patient as we see traffic increase.

Yvette Brooks

COVID protocols

The city of Capitola has updated its policies to ensure the safety of our staff and community. Staff has been asked to wear masks while indoors in shared spaces, regardless of vaccination status. In addition, Capitola City Council meetings will continue to be held virtually. To attend one of our meetings, visit cityofcapitola.org/meetings.

Tobacco grant

A city-wide tobacco compliance check was completed on 11 local tobacco retailers. The objective of the check was to inform the retailers about the grant obtained from the state, determine initial levels of compliance with state law and code regulations prohibiting the sale of flavored tobacco in the city, check for appropriate licensing and signage, and answer any questions businesses may have regarding the compliance process. All retailers were found to be in compliance with the municipal code. Of the 11 retailers contacted, four were provided direction related to the improper display of expired state licenses and adherence to appropriate signage. All retailers were very cooperative and appreciated the information during the operation.

In addition, a subcommittee has come together in partnership with Soquel Union School District, Santa Cruz County Health Department and the Capitola Police Department to create a program for tobacco prevention. The committee met and plan to explore a teens teaching teens model in collaboration with youth in the community to train them to help lead the program.

Fun Facts: waste disposal

As staff was compiling data for an annual report to CalRecycle, some interesting data jumped out.

• During 2020, the total waste disposal (Trash, Recycling, Greenwaste) decreased by 800 tons compared to 2019. For reference, from 2014 and 2019, the total increase for that time period was 300 tons, so this is a huge reduction.

• In 2020, Commercial waste decreased by 1,100 tons from 5,400 tons to 4,300 tons while residential waste increased by 300 tons from 4,600 tons to 4,900 tons.

• After speaking with GreenWaste, this is what most of their clients saw. Much of the change from commercial to residential was due to take out dining and mail-ordered products during 2020.

Chief recruitment

A virtual community meeting will be held from 6-8 p.m. Aug. 23 to discuss the chief of police recruitment with the public. To join and offer input, visit us02web.zoom.us.

Job opportunities

The job opening for an associate planner/senior planner is posted on our website. For information or to apply, visit cityofcapitola.org/jobs.

Implicit bias training

From 5-8 p.m. on Aug. 24, the City Council and management will participate in an Implicit Bias Training by CircleUp Education. This training comes from the request of myself and the council to create a more inclusive organization.

Youth Action Network

The city of Capitola is happy to announce a partnership with the Youth Action Network. The network is a newly reformed initiative that is building a multi-sector collaborative of youth, adult allies, community partners, stakeholders, and youth-serving organizations across Santa Cruz County to increase youth voice and youth leadership in local decision making. For details or to participate. visit bit.ly/YANApplication2021.

Art hike installations

The frames from the Outside the Frame initiative are still available for viewing and photo ops throughout the month of August. This temporary art installation in parks across Santa Cruz County ​Frames will be auctioned to support scholarships and equity programming. For details, to obtain a map or to support the organization visit countyparkfriends.org.

Twilight concerts

All concerts begin at 6 p.m. Wednesdays and take place at the Esplanade bandstand.

Here is the schedule: Wednesday, Everyday People; Aug. 25, Beggar Kings; Sept. 1, Digbeats.

Food truck event

Live music, beer garden, and great food are scheduled for Aug. 27 and Sept. 24 at Monterey Park on Monterey Avenue in Capitola. 

Art & Wine Festival

The festival is admission free. Wine tasting requires the purchase of a 2021 festival glass ($15) and tasting tokens ($2 each). Free parking and shuttle will be provided at the Capitola Mall on 41st Avenue or ride your bike to the festival and park in the free bike valet parking at the festival entrance.

Thousands fill Capitola Village on Sunday afternoon to enjoy food, art, wine and entertainment during the annual Art and Wine Festival. (Kevin Johnson — Santa Cruz Sentinel)

For information, to volunteer or check out the latest updates, visit capitolaartandwine.com.

Movies on the beach

Movies begin at 7:30 p.m. (or dusk) on the bandstand stage in Esplanade Park.

• Sept.10: Dolittle.

• Sept. 17: Frozen 2.

Bring a picnic dinner or dine locally at area restaurants. Low-back chairs, blankets, and jackets are recommended. 

Golf tournament

The 15th annual Capitola Foundation golf tournament tees off at 1 p.m. Oct. 1. For information or to register, visit capitolafoundation.org/golf. All proceeds go to local nonprofits.

As always, should you have any questions feel free to email me at brooksforcitycouncil@gmail.com. You can also email citycouncil@ci.capitola.ca.us and your note will automatically be sent to all five councilmembers, the city clerk, and the city manager.

Mayor’s message is a Sunday column written by Capitola Mayor Yvette Brooks.

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Within easy day-trip range of San Francisco and the northern parts of the Bay Area in particular, Sonoma County has been the local getaway destination since San Franciscans began trekking here by train in the late 1800s. From a literary estate to a seal colony, and from the canopy of the redwoods to (of course) wine tasting, Hoodline’s Bay Area Day Trips series is enjoying the pleasures of Sonoma County this week.

The House of Happy Walls at Jack London’s estate. | Photo: Jack London State Historic Park

 

Take a Walk Through Literature, History and Nature at Jack London’s Estate

Jack London, that iconic writer and outsized Bay Area personality, began acquiring the lands that became his sprawling Sonoma ranch in 1905. Visitors to the Jack London State Historic Park can tour London’s cottage and other historic buildings, visit the museum, picnic on the grounds and explore 29 miles of trails on foot, bike or horseback.

These trails include two short historic hikes, with an audio tour available, plus miles of back-country trails that mount and descend through mixed forest, redwood groves, oak woodlands and grassy meadows. (Dogs are allowed on leash in the historic areas, but not on the back-country trails, which are a wildlife preserve.)

The Jack London park is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and is located at 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen. Parking is $10 per vehicle. More information: jacklondonpark.com

Beachgoers enjoy the Monte Rio beach area. | Photo: Monte Rio Recreation and Park District

Relax Along the Scenic Russian River

Despite the confusion of generations of children (and newcomers) who’ve misheard the name, the Russian River is not the Rushing River. In fact, it can be downright lazy in parts as it meanders between green-flanked banks – making it a perfect destination for a gorgeous getaway from daily life in the urban sprawl. The tiny hamlet of Monte Rio has a long and popular stretch of beach that’s dog- and family-friendly. (Note that not all parts of the beach allow dogs, however.)

At the Monte Rio beaches, you’ll find calm water ideal for swimming and wading, as well as launching a kayak or paddleboard. There’s plenty of space to picnic, plus free volleyball and horseshoe pits to play at. There’s even a concession stand that sells food/beverages and rents kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. The beach parking lot is open until 8 p.m. Memorial Day weekend through the last weekend in September.

Tip: Stop off in the charming and bohemian town of Guerneville for ice cream or a meal before you head for home.

Monte Rio Beach is located at 20488 Highway 116, Monte Rio. For more information: www.mrrpd.org/monte-rio-beach/

Visitors explore the canopy of the Sonoma redwood forests. | Photo: Sonoma Zipline Adventures

Explore the Treetops via Zipline Through the Redwoods

California is home to old-growth redwoods that are among the oldest living things on the planet. Wandering through the unique microclimate that these giants create, staring upwards into their distant canopy, is one of the great California experiences. But why stay on the ground, pondering the trees’ vastness and the incredibly rich ecosystem they host, when you can actually get up into the treetops and experience them for yourself?

Adventure-seekers and nature lovers can explore the canopy of California’s ancient coastal redwood forests, a world apart that’s home to rare creatures who live out their lives high above the forest floor, via zip lines and sky bridges. Sonoma Zipline Adventures offers two 2.5-hour eco-tours, each along its own unique course.

With the Forest Flight Tour ($129 weekends/$109 weekdays), you’ll experience these majestic redwoods at 200 feet above the ground via seven ziplines with speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, as well as two sky bridges and a rappel to the ground. Or you can go all-out and opt for the Tree Tops Course ($149 weekends/$129 weekdays) that’s higher, faster and covers a longer course. 

More information: www.sonomacanopytours.com

The Sonoma coastline. | Photo: Courtesy of California State Parks, 2019

Discover the Wild Beauty of the Sonoma Coast

With more than 55 miles of coastline, Sonoma County also offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Northern California oceanfront, and maybe even catch a glimpse of whales migrating by offshore. The Sonoma Coast State Park includes 17 miles of sandy beaches, hidden coves, and rocky bluffs.

Enjoy a slightly more protected day at the beach in the lagoon area at North Salmon Creek Beach and South Salmon Creek Beach. Wildlife watch where the Russian River meets the Pacific at Goat Rock Beach, where Pacific Harbor seals and pups hang out during summertime. Or get out on the water with fishing charters, kayak tours, and surfboard rentals. Whatever way you choose to enjoy the Sonoma Coast, just remember that this is NorCal, so bring your layers as well as your sun gear and be sure everyone in your group is well versed in appropriate water safety for this wild oceanfront.

More information: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=451

A tasting flight at Kendall-Jackson. |  Photo: Kendall-Jackson Vineyard Estates

Sip World Class Wines … and Maybe Even Bike Through Wine Country

No discussion of visiting Sonoma County would be complete without mentioning wine tasting. With more than 425 wineries, this world-famous wine region offers something for every wine drinker. Plan a visit to a favorite appellation, or opt for a one-day Sonoma County Tasting Pass ($39 per person) to get tasting flights at your choice of four locations. Or, even better, bring or rent a bike and cruise around the vineyards, stopping off to refresh yourself at the wineries along the way.

The 30-mile loop from Healdsburg through the Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley is a stunningly scenic bike ride and mostly flat. Do the whole loop or opt to ride just a section of it before relaxing with a well-earned glass, a picnic and a tour of one of the many gorgeous wineries in the area, or maybe even a game of bocce ball on a vineyard estate.

More information: www.sonomacounty.com/food-wine, www.sonomacounty.com/articles/best-bike-itineraries-through-wine-country, www.srcc.com/page-274730 

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