Author Archives: Joe
Sonoma Valley – Four 100-year-old wineries to visit
While the Napa Valley gets all the attention as far as popularity, few wine country travelers know that Sonoma County during the 1800’s was the star of California wine country. It all started in Sonoma County when the Buena Vista Winery was established in 1857. Continue reading
Soave Wine Country – Italy’s Hidden Gem
We took off from the hotel and drove directly to the hills above Soave. The roads are narrow and switchback among the vineyards. It is truly one of the most beautiful areas we have visited in all wine country. On a clear and beautiful day, the views are jaw dropping. Continue reading
Bistro Ralph – 19 Years of Delicious Dining in Healdsburg
For dinner, we made a great choice by dining at Bistro Ralph in Healdsburg on the Plaza. It has been there for 19 years and we can easily understand why. They have not missed a beat since our last visit some five years ago. Continue reading
Pappa al Pomodoro – My try at making this traditional Tuscan soup
I took loads of photographs at the demo and also watched a YouTube video that one of the follow bloggers made, but I had to do some guesswork on the exact amounts of all ingredients. Here is my take on how to prepare and cook this wonderful soup, perfecto for these cold winter months. Continue reading
Dario Cecchini – The Butcher of Chianti Classico
Dario Cecchini is an 8th generation butcher but he has taken his skill to another level from his predecessors. Not only does he have innovative ideas about his profession, but his amazing outgoing personality, and his love for his trade and the people that come to his butcher shop and restaurant, are what sets him apart. He is truly a living legend in the land of Chianti Classico.
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Caparsa Estate in Chianti Classico
Perhaps I see myself in the roll as Paolo making my own wine working the vineyards organically and selecting the finest grapes to go into my wine. If owned a winery I would tend to the land and make wine just like Paolo. Continue reading
Touring and tasting in Chianti Classico
We learned much about Chianti Classico, its wines, tradition, and its many characters. We begin a series of articles with some general information and background about Chianti Classico and its wines. Continue reading
Our Italian Wine Adventures – Brescia
Our Italian Wine Adventures begin in the city of Brescia. We were not familiar with this city until we decided to attend the European Wine Bloggers Conference. It is one of those hidden gems that somehow remain relatively undiscovered by … Continue reading
Twisted Oak Winery – Zany Place
Brett Keller came to our rescue. He took us on a tour of the crushpad, the fermenting tanks, and then to the cave for a few barrel samples of aging wines. Brett Keller recently replaced Twisted’s former winemaker, Scott Klann, and it was interesting to hear how Brett will continue the legacy and add his own personal touches, one of which will be the production of an Albariño wine. Continue reading
Indian Rock Vineyards in Murphys – A Little Different
They prefer to be off the radar, building their clientele on word-of-mouth and the reputation of their wine. They don’t sell their wine retail; most of it goes to their wine club members and the rest is sold to visitors out of their tasting room. A few bottles can be found in local restaurants.
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