https://talesofthecork-blog.com/2023/10/27/madelines-continues-20-years-of-fresh-french-inspired-cuisine-in-cambria/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/screen-shot-2023-10-24-at-8.46.24-pm.pngscreen-shot-2023-10-24-at-8.46.24-pmhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2178.jpgimg_2178https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2208.jpgimg_2208https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2085.jpgimg_2085https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2200-1.jpgimg_2200-1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2201.jpgimg_2201https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2086.jpgimg_2086https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_3041.jpgimg_3041https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2089.jpgimg_2089https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/img_2084-1.jpgimg_2084-12023-10-27T19:34:04+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2023/02/09/homemade-meatloaf-with-ketchup-icing-recipe/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7748-2.jpgimg_7748-2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7746-2.jpgimg_7746-2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7739-2-1.jpgimg_7739-2-1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7743-2.jpgimg_7743-2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7739-2.jpgimg_7739-2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7731.jpgimg_77312023-02-09T22:27:43+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2023/02/02/blackened-salmon-with-citrus-wild-rice-recipe/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/salmon.jpgsalmonhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7701.jpgIMG_7701https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7698-2-1.jpgimg_7698-2-1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7698-2.jpgimg_7698-2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/img_7700.jpgimg_77002023-02-02T23:46:25+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2021/04/04/quail-state-creates-new-downtown-fresno-hangout/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/islascouplelg.jpgIslasCoupleLghttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/islascouple.jpgIslasCouplehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/joshcreating2.jpgJoshCreating2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/joshcreating1.jpgJoshCreating1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/pinotnoir.jpgPinotNoirhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/cocktail.jpgCocktailhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/bourbonwhiskey.jpgBourbonWhiskeyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/boozydrink.jpgBoozyDrinkhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/whitewine.jpgWhiteWinehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/redwine2.jpgRedWine22022-09-27T03:15:00+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2022/09/13/yacht-life-attainable-for-vancouver-visitors/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3282.jpgIMG_3282https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3281.jpgIMG_3281https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3277.jpgIMG_3277https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3276.jpgIMG_3276https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3275-1.jpgIMG_3275https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3274-1.jpgIMG_3274https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3272.jpgIMG_3272https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3270.jpgIMG_3270https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3255.jpgIMG_3255https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/img_3252.jpgIMG_32522022-09-27T03:16:45+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2021/03/30/talesofthecork-mango-margarita/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/mangomargaritas1-1.jpgMangoMargaritas1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/mangomargaritasfeatured1.jpgMangoMargaritasFeatured12021-04-04T18:08:01+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/about/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dinnerinvineyard.jpgDinnerInVineyardWhile restaurant Auberge des Vignes is on the R74 at the edge of Volnay, its quiet garden seating overlooks the vineyards of Pommard and Volnay. The food is traditional and takes advantage of local fresh ingredients.2021-03-31T21:17:54+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/recipes/2021-03-30T17:59:07+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/02/26/cambria-vacation-inspires-central-coast-dreaming/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/redmoosecookies3.jpgredmoosecookieshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/elephantseals21.jpgelephantseals2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/bonistacos2.jpgbonistacos2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/tenderloinsquash1.jpgtenderloinsquashhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/bakerbrainveltliner1.jpgbakerbrainveltlinerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/bakerbrainmushroomsoup1.jpgbakerbrainmushroomsouphttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/andrewadamvineyards21.jpgandrewadamvineyards2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/chantrellemushroomsoup.jpgchantrellemushroomsouphttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/firesideinn-hot-tub.jpgfiresideinn-hot-tubhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/abalone.jpgabalone2017-08-02T04:25:33+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/08/03/branding-le-ptit-paysan-as-a-fresh-friendly-rose/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/ian-brand.jpgian-brandhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/ianbrand3.jpgIanBrand3Ian Brand moved to Monterey County and works in San Benito County on purpose, seeking out untapped potential in the rocky, limestone, old seabeds and shale soils. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/leptitpaysan1.jpgLePTitPaysan1The 2012 Le P’Tit Paysan Mourvèdre had hints of rhubarb, blood orange but the dry Rosé shone its salmon hue and minerality much like its French counterparts.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/ianbrand2.jpgIanBrand2<em>Ian Brand moved and is raising his young family in Monterey County to work the challenging vineyards, including the Spur Ranch Vineyard in San Benito County.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/ianbrand1.jpgIanBrand1<em>Ian Brand moved and is raising his young family in Monterey County to work the challenging vineyards, including the Spur Ranch Vineyard in San Benito County.</em>2017-02-21T22:39:23+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/02/17/giornata-wines-story-behind-top-california-italian-brand/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/stephyinvineyard2.jpgstephyinvineyardhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/stephyinvineyard1.jpgstephyinvineyardhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/italianintern1200.jpgitalianintern1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/italianintern800.jpgitalianintern800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/giornatanebbioloespresso1.jpggiornatanebbioloespressohttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dinnerisoleolenawithpaolo1200.jpgdinnerisoleolenawithpaolo1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dinnerisoleolenawithpaolo800.jpgdinnerisoleolenawithpaolo800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/tastinginmontalcino.jpgtastinginmontalcinohttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/pregiornatadaysintuscany.jpgpregiornatadaysintuscanyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/pouringwineinstresa.jpgpouringwineinstresa2017-02-18T03:57:06+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/08/11/ancient-peaks-sinor-lavallee-mike-sinor-winemaker-of-the-year-part-ii/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorview2.jpgsinorview2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/mikecherisinorburgundy04.jpgMikeCheriSinorBurgundy04The Sinor-Vallee wine label is named after Mike's Spanish heritage and Cheri's French last name.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorlavalleewine1.jpgSinorLaValleeWineSInor-LaVallee wines https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorwithancientoyster2.jpgSInorwithAncientOysterThe Oyster Ridge Vineyard soils include crushed and larger pieces of ancient, petrified crustaceans. The vineyard was a part of a large seabed millions of years ago.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinormikecloseup.jpgSinorMikeCloseUpSince 2007, Mike Sinor has been the director of winemaking at Ancient Peaks Winery in Santa Margarita. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorwithancientoyster1.jpgSInorwithAncientOyster<em>The Oyster Ridge Vineyard soils include crushed and larger pieces of ancient, petrified crustaceans. The vineyard was a part of a large seabed millions of years ago.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorwithancientoyster.jpgSInorwithAncientOysterhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/timmondavikenbrownmikesinor.jpgTimMondaviKenBrownMikeSinorDuring his winemaking career, Mike Sinor, right, worked with Tim Mondavi, left, and Ken "Byron" Brown while creating wines with Byron Winery.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/ancientpeakswinery.jpgAncientPeaksWineryWhile the vineyards and winery are 17 miles away near the Margarita Vineyard, the Ancient Peaks tasting room is in Santa Margarita, one mile east of Highway 101.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/ancientpeaksoysterridge.jpgAncientPeaksOysterRidgeMike Sinor left Domaine Alfred Winery after receiving an offer to be the director of winemaking at Ancient Peaks Winery in Santa Margarita. The Oyster Ridge Vineyard is in the foreground with the Santa Lucia Mountains providing the backdrop.2017-02-05T22:05:17+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/08/01/get-to-know-2012-coast-winemaker-of-the-year-mike-sinor/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorskullcoe.jpgsinorskullcoehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorstobbe2.jpgsinorstobbe2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/bassivineyards.jpgbassivineyardshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/mikesinorlavallee7.pngMikeSinorLaVallee7Family and community relationships continue to shape Mike and Cheri Sinor. In this 2003 family photo, Cheri holds a reluctant Tomas and Mike cradles Esmee.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/mikesinorlavallee101.pngMikeSinorLaVallee10After 5 1/2 years as Domaine Alfred's winemaker, Sinor felt like a change was imminent. He had offers for a lot of jobs but the opportunities were not a right fit.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/mikesinorlavallee10.pngMikeSinorLaVallee10https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sinorlavalleewine.jpgSinorLaValleeWineMike and Cheri's personal wine label is Sinor-LaValle. Mike's Spanish family heritage is the Sinor and Cheri's background is French; thus the LaVallee.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/beachbirds.jpgBeachBirdsMany Central California teenagers dream of leaving the San Joaquin Valley for a college beach experience. Mike Sinor left Visalia for San Luis Obispo and a degree from Cal Poly.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/ancientpeaksvineyards2.jpgAncientPeaksVineyardsSinor began his winemaking journey at Byron Vineyards and Domaine Alfred, where he earned a 96-point review from Wine Spectator. He currently works at Ancient Peaks Winery in Santa Margarita.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/ancientpeaksvineyards1.jpgAncientPeaksVineyards[caption id="attachment_1211" align="aligncenter" width="300"]<a href="https://talesofthecork.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/ancientpeaksvineyards.jpg"><img src="https://talesofthecork.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/ancientpeaksvineyards.jpg?w=300" alt="" title="AncientPeaksVineyards" width="300" height="201" class="size-medium wp-image-1211" /></a><em>Sinor began his winemaking journey at Byron Vineyards and Domaine Alfred where he earned a 96-point review from Wine Spectator. He currently works at Ancient Peaks Winery in Santa Margarita.</em>[/caption]2017-02-05T22:04:05+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/27/trelio-restaurant-reopens-in-clovis/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliokitchen1200.jpgtreliokitchen1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliokitchen800.jpgtreliokitchen800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliobar800.jpgtreliobar800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliotable1.jpgtreliotable1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliobar1200.jpgtreliobar1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/oldtowngatewaysign800.jpgoldtowngatewaysign800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliofoodtable.jpgtreliofoodtablehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/chrismakinggratinpotatoes.jpgchrismakinggratinpotatoeshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/treliotablesoutside.jpgtreliotablesoutsidehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/trelio1remodel800.jpgtrelio1remodel8002017-02-18T04:01:16+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/24/dinner-pairings-with-buena-vista-wines/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/cavesofbuenavista.jpgcavesofbuenavistahttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/champagneandfood800.jpgchampagneandfood800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/champagne2.jpgchampagne2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/champagne1.jpgchampagne1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bvw-champagne.jpgbvw-champagnehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bvwcab4.jpgbvwcab4https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bvwcab3.jpgbvwcab3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/thecountdinnerplate800.jpgthecountdinnerplate800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/thecount4.jpgthecount4https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/thecountwithfood800.jpgthecountwithfood8002017-01-26T22:21:25+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/07/03/pre-travel-checklist-for-overseas-visit/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/monterossobeach.jpgmonterossobeachhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/florencecityview800.jpgflorencecityview800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/leaningtower.jpgLeaningTowerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/manarola.jpgManarolahttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/mersault.jpgMersault2017-01-26T21:40:21+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/11/04/simple-caprese-lunch-with-emmolo-sauvblanc/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/emmolo1200.jpgemmolo1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/caprese.jpgcapreseWith just a quick stop at the market, a caprese salad can be created in just minutes.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/emmolowine.jpgemmolowineGreg Stobbe2017-01-26T20:22:21+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/11/09/rigatoni-a-la-bordelaise-with-bordeaux/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dinner.jpgdinnerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rigatoni3.jpgrigatoni3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rigatoni2.jpgrigatoni2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rigatoni-800.jpgrigatoni-800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/bordeaux11.jpgbordeaux1After reading about the Chateau Haut-Sorillon Bordeaux Superieur online, I decided to try the 2014 version with a classic French dish.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/bordeaux1.jpgbordeaux1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/rigatoni-large.jpgrigatoni-large2017-01-26T20:17:30+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/11/21/five-thanksgiving-sparkling-wines/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/three-bubbly.jpgthree-bubblyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/thanksgivingtable.jpgthanksgivingtablehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/campagne3.jpgcampagne3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/champagne.jpgchampagne2017-01-26T20:07:35+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/11/15/sipping-a-cambria-moonstone-cellars-tempranillo/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstonenew2bldg800.jpgmoonstonenew2bldg800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstonetempranillo.jpgmoonstonetempranillohttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstonecellars2.jpgmoonstonecellars2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstone1.jpgmoonstone1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstonegrilltacos.jpgmoonstonegrilltacoshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstone800.jpgmoonstone800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstone4-800.jpgmoonstone4-800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/moonstone3-1200.jpgmoonstone3-12002017-01-26T20:04:13+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/12/01/lodi-wine-country-boutique-winery-innovation/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/locavisitorbldg.jpglocavisitorbldghttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/locaspencerstobbe3.jpglocaspencerstobbe3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/locavisitorsign.jpglocavisitorsignhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/loca-vineyard.jpgloca-vineyard2017-01-26T19:57:46+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/12/05/garlic-parmesan-chicken-in-cream-sauce/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/bakedchicken.jpgbakedchickenhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/maldonadodinner.jpgmaldonadodinnerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/maldonado800.jpgmaldonado800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/madonado2800.jpgmadonado2800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/garlicchicken1dish1200.jpggarlicchicken1dish1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/garlicchicken1.jpggarlicchicken12017-01-26T19:53:11+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/12/10/old-fig-wine-cellars-a-central-valley-urban-dream/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldfigdavemakeswine.jpgoldfigdavemakeswinehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldfigdaveinfield800.jpgoldfigdaveinfield800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldfigradioflyer1200.jpgoldfigradioflyer1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigtim.jpgoldfigtimhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigrototillerred.jpgoldfigrototillerredhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigrototillerdrinkable.jpgoldfigrototillerdrinkablehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigfivesusans2.jpgoldfigfivesusans2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigfivesusans.jpgoldfigfivesusanshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigdavetim1200.jpgoldfigdavetim1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/oldfigdavetim1.jpgoldfigdavetim12017-01-26T19:50:39+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/12/17/changing-lodi-zin-culture-klinker-brick-winery/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldghoststew.jpgoldghoststewhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldghostdinner2.jpgoldghostdinner2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oldghostdinner.jpgoldghostdinnerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkerbricktacodinner800.jpgklinkerbricktacodinner800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkerbrickinterview2-800.jpgklinkerbrickinterview2-800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkerbrickoldghost.jpgklinkerbrickoldghosthttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkerbrickinterview800.jpgklinkerbrickinterview800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/loca-sign-klinkerbrick800.jpgloca-sign-klinkerbrick800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkersunset800.jpgklinkersunset800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/klinkerbrickentrance800.jpgklinkerbrickentrance8002018-01-18T00:37:11+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/12/22/yorba-wines-sutter-creeks-premier-label/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/yorbaann2.jpgyorbaann2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/shakeridgered800.jpgshakeridgered800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/yorbacomparezin800.jpgyorbacomparezin800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/yorbabldg800.jpgyorbabldg800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/yorbabarbera.jpgyorbabarberahttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/yorbaanngreg800.jpgyorbaanngreg800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/suttercreektown1200.jpgsuttercreektown12002017-01-26T19:41:11+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/05/boeuf-bourguignon-with-deovlet-sonny-boy/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sortingoldvinepinot.jpgsortingoldvinepinothttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ryandeovlet.jpgryandeovlethttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovlettable800.jpgdeovlettable800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovletsonnyboy5.jpgdeovletsonnyboy5https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovletsonnyboy4.jpgdeovletsonnyboy4https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovletsonnyboy3.jpgdeovletsonnyboy3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovletsonnyboy1.jpgdeovletsonnyboy1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/beoufbourguignon800.jpgbeoufbourguignon800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deovlettable1200.jpgdeovlettable12002017-01-26T19:38:21+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/12/deloach-vineyards-on-the-table/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachbeets2.jpgdeloachbeets2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachbeets1.jpgdeloachbeetshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachentrance.jpgdeloachentrancehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/chandon1.jpgchandon1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot1200.jpgdeloachpinot1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot6.jpgdeloachpinot6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot5.jpgdeloachpinot5https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot3.jpgdeloachpinot3https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot2.jpgdeloachpinot2https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/deloachpinot1.jpgdeloachpinot12017-01-26T19:36:36+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/18/cambria-paso-robles-wine-country-host-blendfest/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sansimeontree800.jpgsansimeontree800California coastal oakhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sansimeonbeach1200.jpgsansimeonbeach1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sansimeonbeach800.jpgsansimeonbeach800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sansimeon2beach1200.jpgsansimeon2beach1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sansimeon2beach800.jpgsansimeon2beach800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sadnsimeonseagull1200.jpgsadnsimeonseagull1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sadnsimeonseagull800.jpgsadnsimeonseagull800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/pasoroblescabcollective1200.jpgpasoroblescabcollective1200https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/pasoroblescabcollective800.jpgpasoroblescabcollective800https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/buddingwinemaker.jpgbuddingwinemaker2017-01-26T19:35:15+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2017/01/21/cambria-art-and-wine-festival-jan-27-29/2017-01-26T19:33:00+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/09/14/frontier-ranching-in-paso-rangeland-wines-and-laird-foshay-part-ii/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandhoneyproduction.jpgRangelandHoneyProduction<em>Foshay manages his Rangeland Wines and beef from their inception until a customer buys them for their table. The meats, estate wines and honey products are unique where they are grown and express their environment.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandpasturevineyards.jpgRangelandPastureVineyards<em>Foshay manages his Rangeland Wines and beef from their inception until a customer buys them for their table. The meats and estate wines are unique where they are grown and express their environment.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandwines.jpgRangelandWinesFrom their dry farmed (no irrigation) Petite Sirah, Limestone Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel to their estate blends, Rangeland Wines are available through club purchase, local retail outlets and tastings on the ranch. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandpond.jpgRangelandPondFoshay regularly rotates his animals through standing thick yellow grasslands and forbs, like wild rye, clover, vetch and filaree. These conditions fatten up the beef to be smaller, but healthier and more muscular than their grain-feed counterparts.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandsrow191.jpgRangelandsRow19<em>Foshay manages his Rangeland Wines and beef from their inception until a customer buys them for their table. The meats and estate wines are unique where they are grown and express their environment.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandsrow19.jpgRangelandsRow19Foshay manages his Rangeland Wines and beef from their inception until a customer buys them for their table. The meats and estate wines are unique where they are grown and express their environment.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandlimestonereserve.jpgRangelandLimestoneReserveMy favorite was the 2009 Rangeland Limestone Reserve. This Cabernet is age-worthy and wowed me with its floral aromatics, immediately upon opening. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandshannongustafson.jpgRangelandShannonGustafsonFoshay hired Shannon Gustafson as his Rangeland winemaker in 2009. She graduated from Fresno State. In 2001, she studied in Brodeaux, France, for four months at Château du Grand Mouëys and worked for other local wineries.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/fosheyatgate.jpgFosheyAtGateLaird Foshay runs a 1,500-acre ranch with 80 Angus beef and 40 acres of vineyards.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/rangelandvineyardsdusk3.jpgRangelandVineyardsDusk3After 20 years in the Silicon Valley, media entrepreneur Laird Foshay moved his family to the hills west of Paso Robles, establishing Rangeland Wines and Adelaida Springs Ranch.2017-01-07T20:21:40+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/08/05/rangeland-wines-and-angus-beef-get-to-know-laird-foshay/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandwatershed11.jpgRangelandWatershed1<em>The 2009 The Watershed (Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend) is one of nine Rangeland wines produced on an annual basis. Rangeland wines are offered through club membership on their web site or through over 20 area wine shops and restaurants.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandwatershed1.jpgRangelandWatershed1<em>The 2009 The Watershed (Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend) is one of nine Rangeland wines produced on an annual basis. Rangeland wines are offered through club membership on their web site or through over 20 area wine shops and restaurants.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandsrow19.jpgRangelandsRow19After planting his first Rhone varietals in 2001, former Silicon Valley entrepreneur, Laird Foshey, harvests vineyards growing at 1,700 feet among oaks, grasslands and Angus beef.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandangus4.jpgRangelandAngus4<em>Rangeland owner Laird Foshey traded unstable high Internet dollars for fair/bargin priced land in the oak-covered hills west of Paso Robles and a chance to be an Angus beef rancher and winemaker. He wanted a rural lifestyle and was willing to be a beginner to do it.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandlimestonereserve.jpgRangelandLimestoneReserveThe 2009 Limestone Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is one of seven varietals Rangelands produces on an annual basis. Rangeland wines are offered through club membership on their web site or through over 20 area wine shops and restaurants.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandoaks1.jpgRangelandOaksRangeland owner Laird Foshey left Palo Alto and the online financial news service, Investools, he founded for a change to be an Angus beef rancher and winemakers in the oak-covered hills west of Paso Robles.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/rangelandoaks.jpgRangelandOaksRangeland owner Laird Foshey left Palo Alto and the online financial news service, Investools, he founded for a change to be an Angus beef rancher and winemakers in the oak-covered hills west of Paso Robles.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/fosheyinranchhouse.jpgFosheyInRanchHouseOnce a web publisher for DrDobbs.com and Investools.com, Laird Foshay gave up his office job for wide open spaces at Ranchland Wines and the 1,500-acre Adelaida Springs Ranch in 2000.2017-01-07T20:18:14+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/blog-page/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/wine-and-food.jpgwine-and-foodhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/img_4319.jpgblogpagephoto2016-12-21T19:16:56+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/about/contact-us/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/greginvolnay.jpgGregInVolnayAfter multiple trips to France and Burgundy, interviewing winemakers, merchants and chefs, I want to organize and retell the tales I found. Feel free to share your experiences with me through email, Twitter or the comment section.2016-12-21T19:13:05+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/2016/06/26/hot-outside-love-me-some-passaggio-rose/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/img_4413-e1474321667371.jpgrosephotofeaturedhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/passaggiosonoma.jpgPassaggioSonomahttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/passaggio-with-greg.jpgPassaggio with Greghttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/passaggiorose1.jpgPassaggioRose1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/passaggiorose.jpgPassaggioRose2016-12-11T18:34:47+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/06/25/talesofthecork-to-add-grass-roots-wine-reviews/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/tableset.jpgtablesethttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/stobbegregmug1.jpgStobbeGregMug1Greg Stobbe is TalesoftheCork and is adding wine reviews to his stories on wine, food and travel.2016-09-26T15:38:58+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/06/26/piccini-villa-cortile-riserva-2006-brunello-di-montalcino/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/piccini.jpgpiccinihttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/piccinivillaalcortilebrunellosm.jpgPicciniVillaAlCortileBrunelloSmThe 2006 Piccini Villa Al Cortile Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva can be purchased via WineChateau.com or other Internet outlets.2016-09-26T15:28:18+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/06/29/tuscany-trip-takes-calistoga-detour-first-stop-fannys-bb/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/calistogacreek.jpgcalistogacreekhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/romandayspa.jpgRomanDaySpaPioneer Samuel Brannan touted Calistoga as a health and wellness destination, including the healing powers of the natural spring and mud baths by the mid 1860s.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/fannysfrontrm.jpgFannysFrontRmGuests at Fanny's first enter into a marvelous, comfortable front room complete with fireplace, overstuffed chairs and bookshelves.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/fannys.jpgFannysTucked away in a quiet neighborhood, Fanny's B&B is a wonderful alternative to the inns of Calistoga, California.2016-09-25T14:29:04+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/07/04/tuscan-tasting-castello-di-amorosa-2012-rosato/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/castellocastle.jpgcastellocastlehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/gioiarosatosm.jpgGioiaRosatoSmThe 2012 Gioia Rosato, a 100% Sangiovese, touts bright strawberry and cranberry flavors with plum and red delicious apple aromas, perfect for picnics.2016-09-25T14:23:33+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/talesofthecork-wine-reviews/red-wine/central-coast/2016-09-25T14:18:35+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/california-1/tales-from-california/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/mountain-vineyard.jpgmountain-vineyard2016-09-25T14:17:01+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/california-1/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/napa-vineyard.jpgnapa-vineyardhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/thompsonfresno.jpgThompsonFresnoThe California grape agricultural industry is second only to dairy in the State. Varying varietals, including the Thompson [shown], are grown for table grapes, raisins, wines for blending, boutique and high end wines, sweet wines and brandy.2016-09-25T14:06:13+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/burgundy/tales-from-burgundy/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/burgundy-village.jpgburgundy-village2016-09-24T21:25:46+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/burgundy/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/burgundy-castle.jpgburgundy-castlehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/santenaylg3.jpgSantenayLg The village of Santenay is at the southern end of the Cote de Beaune. Besides wine making, the town boasts a 12th century church and a hydrothermal and health resort since 1968.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/santenaylg2.jpgSantenayLghttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/santenaylg1.jpgSantenayLg The village of Santenay is at the southern end of the Cote de Beaune. Besides wine making, the town boasts a 12th century church and a hydrothermal and health resort since 1968.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/santenaylg.jpgSantenayLgThe village of Santenay is at the southern end of the Cote de Beaune. Besides wine making, the town boasts a 12th century church and a hydrothermal and health resort since 1968.2016-09-24T21:21:45+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/about/introduction/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/ground3.jpgground32018-01-31T03:39:16+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/talesofthecork-wine-reviews/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/greg-and-geena.jpggreg-and-geena2016-09-24T21:14:23+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/07/30/calistoga-brennans-grill-for-lunch/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/brannans.jpgbrannanshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/cioppino.jpgCioppinoWIth a spiced tomato bisque base, I used all my toasted garlic sourdough bread to soak up all of the San Francisco-inspired Cioppino.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/peterstetsonmark-young.jpgPeterStetsonMark YoungLocal resident Peter Stetson, left, and Brannan's owner Mark Young share personal passions and stories of Calistoga during lunch.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/mussels.jpgMusselsWe enjoyed a bowl of musselshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/diningflowers.jpgDiningFlowersWIth large plantation windows facing the street to the right, Brannan's Grill is a comfortable, upscale spot for lunch, dinner in Calistoga.2016-09-24T20:53:27+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/08/31/j-rickards-winery-darn-fine-barn-wine-video/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jrickards.jpgjrickardshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jrickardsdinner.jpgJRickardsDinnerJ. Rickards dry Bistro Table Rosé with smoked salmon salad. Wow! Great combo! https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jrickards2zinfandel.jpgJRickards2ZinfandelThe Old Vine Zinfandel, Estate, planted in 1908 from the Brignole Vineyard, is flush with Blackberry and plum. The Ancestor Selections Zinfandel, Estate, is a prime example of the Alexander Valley with black cherry, raspberry and pepper.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jrickardsflowers.jpgJRickardsFlowersJ. Rickards Winery planned use of flowers, grasses, bird boxes and rainwater collection all add to the Jim's phrase whenever a visitor arrives at the tasting room: "Welcome to my house."https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jimrickards2.jpgJimRickards2Hand-crafting small lot wines since 1991, Jim Rickards goal is to showcase the diverse soils and micro-climates of his vineyards. He has pioneered environmentally sensitive vineyard practices and been a proponent of sustainable farming techniques.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/jrickardsrose2.jpgJRickardsRose2The J. Rickards 2012 Bistro Table Rosé is perfect for the European palate, with fragrant rose petal, strawberry, watermelon in a crisp, dry finish.2016-09-24T18:30:46+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/09/01/beaulieu-vineyards-reserve-tapestry-2009-napa-valley/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/bv-tapestry.jpgbv-tapestryhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/beaulieutapestrywithmeat.jpgBeaulieuTapestrywithMeatWhile not BV's top Cabernet or blend, the Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry Reserve paired well with my ribeye steak. I recommend this 90-91 point wine and a value buy drinking well now.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/beaulieuvineyardtapestry4.jpgBeaulieuVineyardTapestry4Beaulieu Vineyard Reserve Tapestry is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Its dark red fruit, flowers, licorice are some of the notes that emerge from this sleek, beautifully balanced red.2016-09-24T18:30:14+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/08/05/south-african-mulderbosch-rose-delivers-superb-summer-value/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/mulderbosch2.jpgMulderbosch2Whether you enjoy a Rosé as an aperitif or with a meal, the Mulderbosch Rosé are made with character and a must-have for summer drinking.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/mulderboschrose.jpgMulderboschRoseA strawberry pink color with lively hues, Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2012 combines aromas of ripe blood-orange, red berries black currant and is medium bodied.2016-09-24T18:29:39+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/07/04/calistogas-tuscan-medieval-castle-lures-napa-visitors-video/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/castle.jpgcastlehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/vermentino2.jpegVermentino2While not on the wine list, the 2012 California Vermentino is excellent; the dry crisp citrus aroma and flavor is wonderful.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/winetoast.jpegWineToastEnjoy a guided tour through the castle and winery followed by a private tasting of six of Castello di Amorosa wines, including low production, high end reserve wines. Reservations are highly suggested.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/castleshotgg3.jpgCastleShotGG3My wife Geena and I stopped for a moment to admire The Courtyard, complete with a well, before we moved upstairs to the Il Passito Room to relax and wine taste.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/winebarrelscavesm.jpgWineBarrelRoomSmThe Grand Barrel Room uses 40 ribbed Roman cross-vaults all constructed from ancient brick shipped from Europe and includes a 40-foot, hand crafted travertine tasting bar.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/ancientarmor.jpegAncientArmorDario Suttui collected and built in all the elements a medieval castle would have possessed, including a moat, drawbridge, high towers and ramparts, torture equipment and ancient armor.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/entranceoutsidegate2.jpgEntranceOutsideGate2Determined to make the medieval Tuscan castle authentic, owner Dario Sattui only used old, handmade materials or employing old world techniqus to build Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif.2016-09-24T18:09:18+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2015/08/02/tuscan-tasting-castello-di-amorosa-melanson-vineyard-cabernet/2016-09-24T17:32:16+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2015/08/16/beat-the-heat-with-cool-gazpacho-medlock-ames-rose/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/grilledcheesepeaches.jpgGrilledCheesePeacheshttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/gazpachodinner.jpgGazpachoDinnerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/medlockames.jpgMedlockAmes2016-09-24T16:30:50+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2015/08/05/grilled-salmon-and-peaches/2016-09-24T16:30:20+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2015/08/05/grilled-shrimp-appetizers-and-cooper-rose/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/grilledsalmonpeaches.jpgGrilledSalmonPeachesGrilled salmon and peaches is quick. Just brush both with olive oil. Add Grand Marnier and some Allspice to the peaches for added flavor.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/salmonscene.jpgSalmonSceneThe sauce or dressing on the grilled salmon is a homemade raita dressing. This works well with the spice and smokey char of the grilled fish.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/cooperroseshrimp.jpgCooperRoseShrimpTonight's meal began with seasoned jumbo shrimp dipped in butter and parsley. Geena and I each had a small pour of Cooper Vineyards 2012 Roundpen Rosé, Amador County.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/cardwellpinotmeal.jpgCardwellPinotMealSalmon most often will call for a Pinot Noir. Tonight we choose a Cardwell Hill Pinot from the Willamette Valley in Oregon.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/cardwellcellars1.jpgCardwellCellars12016-09-24T16:29:45+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/welcome-to-brookes-site/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/14192097_915638595246789_5057018884049923212_n-e1474693948554.jpg14192097_915638595246789_5057018884049923212_nhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/img_4381.jpgwelcomepageimage2016-09-24T16:02:46+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/testimonial/3264/2016-09-24T05:09:06+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/testimonial/3260/2016-09-24T05:07:40+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/testimonial/3207/2016-09-19T23:56:28+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/menu-image-page/2016-09-19T23:30:34+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/talesofthecork-wine-reviews/red-wine/italian/2013-07-04T18:15:24+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/talesofthecork-wine-reviews/red-wine/2013-07-04T18:09:07+00:00weekly0.6https://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/06/06/matties-wood-fired-pizza-set-to-grow-business/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/alfredosausagesm.jpgAlfredoSausageSmPizza Salsiccia pizza has tomatos, Tuscan pork sausage, roasted sweet red pepper on an alfredo base.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/mattiebrittanysm.jpgMattieBrittanySmMatties Wood-Fired Pizza can create 12-15 different pizzas and can be found at the local CartHop events, farmer's markets and private parties.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/wood-firesm.jpgWood-FireSmThe wood stone floor is kept at 750 degrees. The beauty of a wood-fired oven at that the temperature ensures the crust will not be soggy and the radiated heat cooks the top ingredients quickly.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/pestobacononionsm.jpgPestoBaconOnionSmI shared two pizzas with my daughter 1) Pizza Vera: caramelized onions, fresh thyme with Maytag blue cheese and Enzo olive oil; 2) Mattie’s pistachio pesto pizza with fresh mozzarella, San Marizano tomatoes, and bacon.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/mattiedoughsm.jpgMattieDoughSmOwner Matthew (Mattie) Wolcott left the education field to pursue Italian cooking, dreaming to cook and entertain with an authentic Italian oven.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/mullinskoleensm.jpgMullinsKoleenSmWith a plethora of eating options at local farmer's markets, I decided to try Matties Wood-Fired Pizza. With fresh ingredients, including dough made fresh each day, the thin-crusted pizza's aroma lured me to join the food trailer's queue.2013-06-07T16:05:12+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/02/11/bella-frutta-hosts-food-truck-hub-each-weekend/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/enzooiloil.jpgEnzoOliveOil<em>While Bella Frutta has sold fresh farm produce since 1946, they now grow and bottle their own olive oil under the Enzo label.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/crumbsnatchercakes.jpgCrumbSnatcherCakesFor the last 15 years, Terri Brookshire has won first place ribbons at the Big Fresno Fair for her baked goodies.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/crumbsnatcher1.jpgCrumbSnatcher1A registered nurse by day, Terri Brookshire has been baking since her childhood. Today she creates award-winning cookies, cakes and breads through her Crumb Snatcher trailer.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/crumbsnatchergoodies2.jpgCrumbSnatcherGoodies2After losing her husband in a tragic accident, Terri married Bob Brookshire in 2009. Today the two own and operate Crumb Snatcher Goodies.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/takogogiburger.jpgTakoGogiBurgerTako BBQ Fusion creates Korean fusion meals which barbecues meats and fuses them with other international food items. The Gogi burger has marinated meat with Jack cheese infused with Korean seasoned salad in between the bun.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/takotruck.jpgTakoTruckAfter reading the food truck business was doing well in L.A., owner Tony Mullings and his Korean culinary-trained wife, Eun Joo Mullings, started Tako BBQ in April 2012.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/theweightbennadiction.jpgTheWeightBennadictionThe Weight is Caples' favorite Bennadiction sandwich. It has pulled pork, bacon and BBQ sauce along with a fried egg and hollandaise sauce on a English muffin.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/bennadiction2.jpgBennadiction2<em>Each of Bennadiction's egg sandwich creations are named after rock songs or artists. James Caples started the food truck in November 2012 after the death of his daughter.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/benaddictionsignsm.jpgBenaddictionSignSmhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/benaddictionsign.jpgBenaddictionSign2013-06-04T22:47:00+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/02/03/simple-super-bowl-wine-choices-lead-with-confidence/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/prisonerbottle.jpgPrisonerBottleWine Spectator consistently gives The Prisoner between 90-93 points since 2003 and has been a Top 100 wine fixture since 2007.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/clayhouseadobered1.jpgClayhouseAdobeRed1The Adobe Red is a proprietary Zinfandel-based blend with effusive aromas of cherry spice, blackberry and pepper, with hints of brambles and plum. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ancientpeaks.jpgAncientPeaksBe sure to include wine for your informal Super Bowl party. Central California coast wines like Ancient Peaks Zinfandel provide an excellent beverage alternative to bring your own beer.2013-02-03T20:31:57+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2013/01/26/grape-tray-reopens-at-opus-i-center/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/hanginggrapes3sm.jpgNapa GrapesKato is up front and says there’s no gimics, no smoke and mirrors at The Grape Tray. There’s no inflated retail and then we take off a big discount. It’s straight up fair.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/katostanfitzgeraldkerry2.jpgStan Kato & Kerry FitzgeraldKato traditionally has staffed his wine shop with Fresno State enology students, including senior Kerry Fitzgerald, right.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/opusisign2.jpgOpus I Shopping CenterWhile The Grape Tray is about a third of its former size, Stan Kato continues to grown his wine offerings and specials to over 4,700 regular customers.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/wineshelves2.jpgWine shelves<em>While in-store, Internet and email sales continue to be strong, Kato believes his success is largely based on a non-nonsense, straight-forward personal approach to provide fresh product, competitive pricing along with unique hard to find items.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/grapetray1.jpgGrape Tray Shelves<em>While his marketing pitch is through store sales, Internet and email business, Kato believes success is largely based on a non-nonsense, straight-forward personal approach to provide fresh product, competitive pricing along with unique hard to find items.</em>[https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/grapetraysign1.jpgGrapeTraySign1https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/katostan.jpgStan Kato and Grape Tray moveCAPTION GOES HERE2013-02-02T20:48:41+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/12/20/caliza-winery-templeton-gap-nets-rhone-ranger/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/calizaazimuth.jpgCalizaAzimuthPUT CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/visitorscalizatastingroom.jpgVisitorsCalizaTastingRoomADD CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/pamcarltastingroom1sm.jpgPamCarlTastingRoom1SmINSERT CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/pamandguestvyd.jpgPamandGuestvydINSERT CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/carlvineyard2sm.jpgCarlVineyard2SmAdd caption here.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/syrahgrapessm.jpgSyrahGrapesSmInser caption herehttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizasign.jpgCalizaSignThe Spanish word, "Caliza," means a thin band of limestone. The catchy word describes the layers of soil under Bowker's Syrah and Rhône varietals.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizawinery5.jpgCalizaWineryGrenacheAfter his 2004 trip to the Rhône Valley, Bowker made the decision to rip out all of the existing vines on his Anderson Road property and plant moistly Syrah clones. He also planted other varietals, including Grenache on this hill behind the tasting room.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/rhonetastingsorrel.jpgRhoneTastingSorrelhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/rhonetastingclappe1.jpgRhoneTastingClappe<em>When the Bowkers and the Russells continued to advance their interest in Rhone varietals, both couples signed up with a group of wine writers and winery professionals on a two-week trip to the Rhone region of France.</em>2013-01-28T02:05:48+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/11/12/caliza-winery-bowker-turns-horticultural-focus-into-viticulture-dream/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizawinerybottles.jpgCalizaWineryBottlesWhile a first trip to Italy help create an obsession for winemaking, a tour of France's Rhone Valley solidified Carl Bowker's vision for old world wine in the new world. In 2005 he planted 20 acres on their hillside property on Anderson Road, joining cutting edge winemakers in the famed Templeton Gap.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizacompanion.jpgCalizaCompanionCarl Bowker creates The Caliza Companion using a 50 percent blend of Cabernet from the Peachy Canyon property and a 30 percent Syrah from the Anderson Road vineyards.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizawinery2.jpgCalizaWinery<em>Carl and Pam Bowker found the Paso Robles wine region quite by accident after a foggy evening drive to SoCal prevented them from going any further south. Today Caliza Winery in the Templeton Gap west of Paso Robles creates award-winning wines.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizawinery1.jpgCalizaWinery<em>Carl and Pam Bowker found the Paso Robles wine region quite by accident after a foggy evening drive to SoCal prevented them from going any further south. Today Caliza Winery in the Templeton Gap west of Paso Robles creates award-winning wines.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/calizawinery.jpgCalizaWineryCarl and Pam Bowker found the Paso Robles wine region quite by accident after a foggy evening drive to SoCal prevented them from going any further south. Today Caliza Winery in the Templeton Gap west of Paso Robles creates award-winning wines.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/lowell-zelinski1.jpgLowell Zelinski of Precision Ag ConsultingLowell Zelinski, left, of Precision Ag Consulting, consults with Carl Bowker each week at Caliza Winery. He provides vineyard management and technical services and has done so since 2008.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/pamcarlitaly2.jpgPam & Carl Bowker in Tuscany, Italy<em>With the Tuscan hillsides in the back ground, Carl and Pam Bowker hang out along side a vineyard on a foggy morning during their 2001 trip to Italy.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/pamcarlitaly1.jpgPam&CarlItaly<em>With the Tuscan hillsides in the back ground, Carl and Pam Bowker hang out along side a vineyard on a foggy morning during their 2002 trip to Italy.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/exhibitplanttruck.jpgExhibitPlantTruckAfter 23 years as the owner/operator of Exhibit Plant and Floral coordinating the installation of plant and food decorations for trade shows, Carl Bowker and wife, Pam, decided to switch careers and morph their horticulture prowess into a viticultural dream.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/pamcarlitaly.jpgPam & Carl Bowker in ItalyWith the Tuscan hillsides in the back ground, Carl and Pam Bowker hang out along side a vineyard on a foggy morning during their 2002 trip to Italy.2012-11-21T20:15:18+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/10/12/guinness-confirms-napa-valley-owns-wine-relay-record-video/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/robertbiale.jpgRobertBialeMaggie Pramuk, center, works for Robert Biale Vineyards and is on the Appellation St. Helena board. She was happy to be a representative from the winery pouring at the Napa Valley Wine Wave and said I can’t believe how fun this is!https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/napavalleywinewavefinal.jpgNapaValleyWineWaveFinalJohanna Hessling, an official Guinness World Book of Records adjudicator, pronounces St. Helena the new home of the Longest Relay Wine Toast. The Napa Valley Wine Wave and its 487 participants cheer and toast their new record, Oct. 7, 2012. (Photo by Charles O'Rear)https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/nvwinewavefinish.jpgNVWineWaveFinishJohanna Hessling, an official Guinness World Book of Records adjudicator, pronounces St. Helena the new home of the Longest Relay Wine Toast. The Napa Valley Wine Wave and its 487 participants cheer and toast their new record, Oct. 7, 2012. (Photo by Charles O'Rear)https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/winewavemedalian.jpgWineWaveMedalianAll 487 Napa Valley Wine Wave participants received a medal commemorating the Guinness World Record for the longest relay wine toast.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/petemondavijr.jpgPeteMondaviJrPeter (Pete Mondoavi, Jr., proprietor of Charles Krug Winery, praised Kiwanis for creating the Napa Valley Wine Wave opportunity and was thrilled the Mondavi-owned winery was able to host the event. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/sthelenacifstudents.jpgStHelenaCIFStudentsKara Chamberlain, right, is a Culinary Institute of America (CIA) student. Her friends, Pedro (from left), Molly, Stephanie and Whitney heard about the Wine Wave and record attempt from their professor. They were sent an email asking for volunteers to help with the event because this is for a scholarship fund which benefits their school.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/winewavesign.jpgWineWaveSignCharles Krug, the oldest family-owned commercial winery, along with St. Helena Kiwanis Club, hosted The Napa Valley Wine Wave, Oct. 7.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/johannahessling.jpgJohannaHesslingAs the Guinness World Book of Records adjudicator, Johanna Hessling, center, walked down the line as the wine wave attempt continued, counting with her clicker to make sure that everyone is participated according to the rules. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/smithlowell1.jpgSmithLowell1Lowell Smith, right, discusses final preparations with St. Helena Chamber of Commerce person. Ali Morse, rear, worked a both selling commemorative bungstarters at the event. They will continue be for sale through www.happybungstarters.com.2012-10-16T19:00:52+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/10/03/justin-winery-rep-visits-fresno-vino-friends/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/chuckatbarsm.jpgChuckAtBarSm<em>Owner Chuck Van Fleet, left, has expanded his wine bistro to include over 300 wines and 40 wines by the glass. The menu includes <a href="http://www.vinoandfriends.com/userfiles/PDF/vfmenu.pdf" title="Menu appetizers" target="_blank">appetizers</a> like stuffed figs and prosciutto-wrapped melon, ahi toasted minis or a Chef's charcuterie platter are available besides salads, bruschetta, paninis, specialty burgers, pizza and pasta, and chef-created crepes.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/wineontable2sm.jpgWineOnTable2SMWine tasting is available seven days a week at Vino & Friends: $5 for members of the Cellar or Black Bag clubs or $10 for non members. Special wine tastings are arranged each Saturday from 2-5 p.m.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/isoscelescenter1.jpgISOSCELESCenter1A CAPTION GOES HERE ABOUT THE ISOSCELES Centerhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/isosceles2005.jpgISOSCELES2005I have been a fan of JUSTIN Wines and recently opened a bottle of 2005 ISOSCELES during a wine dinner at my home. While that year is not readily available, the 2009 vintage is still for sale both at JUSTIN and at Vino & Friends.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/chuckandstevesm.jpgChuckandSteveSmWith tables to the right of them crowded, Steve Lister, left, of Justin Winery chats it up with Vino & Friends owner Chuck Van Fleet, during the Sept. 22 tasting. Lister was pouring Justin Wines during his two-day Fresno visit.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vinodecorations3sm.jpgVinoDecorations3SmVino & Friends' wine club has grown by more than 300 members since the store moved from the original location in 2011. Wine tastings are $5 for members and $10 for non members. However, six beer are also on tap featuring New Belgium and Firestone breweries.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/chuckatbar2sm1.jpgChuckAtBar2Sm<em>With appetizers like stuffed figs & prosciutto wrapped mellon and ahi toasted minis or a Chef's charcuterie platter, Vino & Friends also pair five different kinds of speciality crepes with a choice of over 40 wines by the bottle.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/chuckatbar2sm.jpgChuckAtBar2SmWith appetizers like stuffed figs & prosciutto wrapped mellon and ahi toasted minis or a Chef's charcuterie platter, Vino & Friends also pair five different kinds of speciality crepes with a choice of over 40 wines by the bottle.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/vinosignsm.jpgVinoSignSmAfter opening their first wine shop in 2006, Chuck and Jen Van Fleet moved 75 feet down and reopened as Vino & Friends Wine Store & Bistro, Aug. 4, 2011.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/chuckandsteve2sm.jpgChuckandSteve2SmWith tables to the right of them crowded, Steve Lister, left, of Justin Winery chats it up with Vino & Friends owner Chuck Van Fleet during the Sept. 22 tasting. Lister was pouring Justin Wines during his two-day Fresno visit.2012-10-04T01:07:14+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/09/04/her-mother-and-i/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/greggeena.jpgGregGeenaAfter hugging Brianna one last time and shaking Stan's hand, I joined Geena, my wife, on a park bench and watched my daughter marry the man of her dreams. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannaspromisering1.jpgBriannasPromiseRingAfter wearing the "Promise Ring" I gave Brianna on her 14th birthday, she placed the golden rose ring in my right hand and told me she no longer needed it.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannaspromisering.jpgBriannasPromiseRingAfter wearing the "Promise Ring I gave Brianna on her 14th birthday, she cupped my hand and placed the https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannaanddad2.jpgBriannaAndDadI walked Brianna ‘down the aisle’ in a garden backyard setting. With 150+ guests watching, my oldest clutched my arm, smiled and beamed: "It's time, Daddy."https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dancetwirldownaisle.jpgDanceTwirlDownAisleOur walk along a flower-strewn path was too short. I just had time to call her my princess, twirl her like Cinderella as we crossed the bridge over the pond, adjust her train, pause to take in the scene and smile to Geena before we stopped to face the waiting groom.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannatwoweeks2.jpgBriannaTwoWeeks<em>After learning how to hold my first-born, albeit awkwardly, after the first few days, the next 23 years seemed a blur and Brianna's wedding is now already behind me.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannatwoweeks1.jpgBriannaTwoWeeks<em>After learning how to hold my first-born, albeit awkwardly, after the first few days, the next 23 years seemed a blur and Brianna's wedding is now already behind me.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannaanddad1.jpgBriannaAndDadI walked Brianna ‘down the aisle’ in our https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannaanddad.jpgBriannaAndDadI walked Brianna 'down the aisle' in our https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/briannatwoweeks.jpgBriannaTwoWeeksAfter learning how to hold my first-born, albeit awkwardly, Brianna ADD CAPTION2012-11-03T17:21:06+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/08/08/dunbar-brewing-santa-margaritas-neighborhood-microbrewery/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dunbarbrewerypulls.jpgDunbarBreweryPullsChambers creates five different beers, plus seasonal creations, always having at least two varieties on tap each day: English Style Ale, Brown Porter, IPA, Scottish Heavy or Oatmeal Stout.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dunbarbrewerysandwichboard1.jpgDunbarBrewerySandwichBoard<em>Look for the Dunbar Brewery sandwich board on the left as you arrive in Santa Margarita, traveling east along El Camino Real from Hwy 101.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dunbarbrewerysandwichboard.jpgDunbarBrewerySandwichBoardLook for the Dunbar Brewery sandwich board on the left as you arrive in Santa Margarita, traveling east along El Camino Real from Hwy 101.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/dunbargrowlers.jpgDunbarGrowlersDunbar Brewery is set up for locals and those traveling to take the local micro beer home in Growlers for $45 filled or $20 refill.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/irelandsigndunbarbrewery1.jpgIrelandSignDunbarBreweryDunbar Brewery, while small, is set up for conversation. No loud music, plenty of table and bar space and Chris is eager to talk with patrons from behind the bar.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/irelandsigndunbarbrewery.jpgIrelandSignDunbarBreweryPUT CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/chamberschris.jpgChambersChrisSelf-taught brewmaster, Chris Chambers, set up Dunbar Brewery in Santa Margarita in 2009. Despite the small town locale, the micro brewery successfully attracts patrons from all over the Central Coast.2012-08-08T06:58:05+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/08/02/viticulture-and-enology-programs-to-host-grape-day-at-fresno-state/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/barrettfitzgerald.jpgBarrettFitzgeraldWinemaker and FSU alumni Bo Barrett, right, is senior Terry Fitzgerald's winemaker hero because of his involvement with the "judgement of Paris." This was the wine Barrett and his dad made that helped make Napa what it is today. https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/muscatcanelli.jpgMuscatCanelliIn 1997, the California State University, Fresno, became the first university in the United States to have a winery fully licensed to produce, bottle and sell wine.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/fresnostategrapes.jpgFresnoStateGrapesFresno State students grow many grape varietals and create award winning bottles of Barbera, Petite Sirah, California Syrah, Chardonnay, Rosè and Pinot Gris. 2012-08-05T23:40:05+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/23/california-central-coast-wine-region/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/oysterridge.jpgOysterRidgeOyster Ridge block at Margarita Vineyard2012-07-28T18:55:43+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/23/californias-central-valley-wine-region/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/thompsonatriver.jpgThompsonAtRiverAccording to the Fresno County Farm Bureau, Thompson grapes are the most common planted variety in vineyard across the Central Valley.2012-07-25T20:07:49+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/06/set-up/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/oldbottles1.jpgOldBottlesTales of the Cork seeks to listen to the stories of those who have spent years in the art of crafting wine and food experiences. Often that will require a conversation with those who work behind the scenes to create a culinary experience.2012-07-25T01:26:08+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/24/ulrich-dujardin-outsider-impacts-burgundy-winemaking-tradition-part-ii/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel23.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel2Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel22.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel2[caption id="attachment_700" align="alignright" width="497"]<a href="https://talesofthecork.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel21.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-700" title="DujardinWineFromBarrel2" src="https://talesofthecork.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel21.jpg" alt="" width="497" height="368" /></a> <em>Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.</em>[/caption]https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel21.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel2<em>Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel3.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel<em>Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel2.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel<em>Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel1.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrel<em>Ulrich Dujardin, left, is the factor, the expertise, that helps marriage the taste of centuries in Monthelie. He has built a reputation on the traditional natural process, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, harvesting by hand.</em>https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinpouringmeursault1.jpgDujardinPouringMeursaultDomain Dujardin wines are created by a distinct personality and character that distinguish them a part of the Monthelie landscape and culture.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinpouringmeursault.jpgDujardinPouringMeursaultAfter enjoying dinner with Ulrich and Catherine Dujardin, I believe ADD A CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinasjokester1.jpgDujardinasJokesterDespite his nearly year-round schedule, Dujardin takes an hour or two each week to teach about his techniques to groups who visit his domain.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinasjokester.jpgDujardinasJokesterDespite his nearly year-round winemaking schedule, Dujardin takes an hour or two each week to teach about his techniques to groups who visit his domain.2012-07-24T17:25:56+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/20/outsider-impacts-burgundy-winemaking-tradition-part-i/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardincave1ercru1.jpgDujardinCave1erCruWhile he no longer teaches handicapped adults, Ulrich Dujardin, left, still hires disabled people to work in the Domain Dujardin vineyards during the year. I believe he treasures the people who work for him, the Monthelie community and the land he toils in while trying to become a part of the ancient Burgundian tradition.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardincave1ercru.jpgDujardinCave1erCruhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinsign.jpgDujardinSignhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinmeursault.jpgDujardinMeursaultDomaine Dujardin produces red and white wine, listing eight appellations from four communes: His Village Meursault white is much sought after in Burgundy.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinwinefrombarrel.jpgDujardinWineFromBarrelTHIS NEEDS A CAPTIONhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardingate.jpgDujardinGateTHIS NEEDS A CAPTIONhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinstatue.jpgDujardinStatueWithout a family tradition or land inheritance, Ulrich Dujardin decided to cut back to part-time teaching adult handicapped people and four days a week in 1986 for the Bouzerand Winery in Monthelie.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardinvineyard.jpgDujardinVineyardUlrich Dujardin began to work for Xavier Bouzerand in the vineyards of Monthelie in 1986. The small village and surrounding slopes are 5 KM 3.5 miles from Beaune.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/beaunehospice.jpgBeauneHospiceThe Beaune Hospice, founded in 1443, was a place of refuge for orphaned children until 1970. Today the Hospices de Beaune are a testimony to its long history, continue to operate 60 hectares of vineyards and host a wine auction the third Sunday of November.2012-07-24T17:24:38+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/10/burgundy-first-things-first/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/lerochpot.jpgLeRochpotThe village and 11th century Château de la Rochepot is just a short drive south of Beaune. It just goes to show that you never know what is just around the corner in Burgundy.2012-07-24T14:22:49+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/24/california-sierra-nevada-foothills-wine-region/2012-07-24T01:20:30+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/06/cote-de-beaune-introduction/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/beaunemainsquare1.jpgBeauneMainSquareAlmost every Saturday morning, starting at 7:30, Beaune's old city center comes alive with a farmer's market. Be sure to grab a coffee creme and croissant at one of the patisseries or cafes.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/beaunemainsquare.jpgBeauneMainSquareAlmost every Saturday morning, starting at 7:30, Beaune's old city center comes alive with a farmer's market. Be sure to grab a coffee creme and croissant at one of the patisseries or cafes.2012-07-24T01:19:46+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/19/burgundy-winemaker-designs-new-path/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardincremant2.jpgDujardinCremant THERE NEEDS TO BE A CAPTION HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardincremant1.jpgDujardinCremanthttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/dujardincremant.jpgDujardinCremantTHERE NEEDS TO BE A CAPTION HERE2012-07-22T16:30:49+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/13/burgundy-four-wine-classifications-two-regions/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/villagewine.jpgVillageWineThis is a village wine but needs a caption.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/premiercru.jpgPremierCruPremier Cru (1er Cru) account for about 10 percent of all Burgundy wines. In this case, this producer bottles a her Cru and is the only one to do so in Burgundy, thus can add the term "Monopole." https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/grandcrucoche1.jpgGrandCruCocheOn the Grand Cru label, the name of the vineyard is dominant and the words “Grand Cru” is next prominent, beneath the name of the vineyard. The name of the winemaker the the least noticeable of the three.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/grandcrucoche.jpgGrandCruCocheOn the Grand Cru label, the name of the vineyard is dominant and the words “Grand Cru” is next prominent, beneath the name of the vineyard. The name of the winemaker the the least noticeable of the three.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/mersaultcontryside.jpgMersaultContrysideThe terroir-diverse soils, rock strata and elevation all contribute to the placement of grape varietals and character of Burgundian wines. Each Climat has a distinct flavor, subtleties, aromas and appearance and is unique to its region or appellation.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/burgundycountryside.jpgBurgundyCountrysideThe terroir-diverse soils, rock strata and elevation all contribute to the placement of grape varietals and character of Burgundian wines. Each Climat has a distinct flavor, subtleties, aromas and appearance and is unique to its region or appellation.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/oldbottles21.jpgOldBottles2The Burgundy region continues to produce wines since the Roman s arrived 2,000 years ago. Over 3,000 producers grow mostly chardonnay and pin or today, selling wine to locals and around the world.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/oldbottles2.jpgOldBottles22012-07-21T19:57:58+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/17/lompocs-ghetto-and-palmina-winery/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/stolpmanvineyards.jpgStolpmanVineyardsThe Wine Ghetto in Lompoc, CA, houses 16 wineries representing 20 different brands. While the industrial look may feel cold and uninviting, it is the inside of both the building and wine that gave me reason to visit again.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/cliftonsteve.jpgCliftonSteveWhile my purpose intent was to find out how an industrial complex could house world class wineries, I met and became befriended by my Palmina Winery's owner, Steve Clifton. 2012-07-20T22:51:08+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/20/celebrate-fresno-restaurant-weeks/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/friba1.jpgFRIBAIn an effort to educate the area community about independent local restaurants, FRIBA along with six sponsors, have listed 25 eateries for the 2012 Fresno Restaurant Week, July 20-Aug. 3.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/friba.jpgFRIBAFRIBA CAPTION GOES HEREhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/panelunch.jpgPaneLunchWWWWWWWWWWWWhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/chefmike.jpgChefMikeChef Mike Shackleford WWWWWWWWWWWW2012-07-20T22:49:05+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/12/burgundy-a-place-to-bed-down/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/farmersmarket2.jpgFarmersMarketFresh vegetables and breads are common at farmer's markets, local poultry, meat and fish make BBQ a tantalizing cuisine option.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/farmersmarket1.jpgFarmersMarketFresh vegetables and breads are common at farmer's markets, local poultry, meat and fish make BBQ a tantalizing cuisine option.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/farmersmarket.jpgFarmersMarketWhile fresh vegetables and breads are common at farmer's markets, local poultry, meat and fish make BBQ a tantalizing cuisine option.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/hotelduchevreuil.jpgHotelduChevreuilThe Hotel du Chèvreuil is located just off Meursault's main square. The village is just about a 15-minute drive from Beaune.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/domainethierryviolotguillemard.jpgDomaine Thierry Violot Guillemard and HotelIf organizing a week at a village apartment or house is out of the question, renting a hotel room in a small village may be a fit. Try Domaine Thierry Violot Guillemard's small hotel in Pommard.https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/farmhouse.jpgFarmHouseWhile renting a hotel room in Beaune helps allows closer access to nightlife, visitors to Burgundy might consider an 18th century refurbished farm house for a week like this one at the edge of Meursault.2012-07-17T18:19:01+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/05/13/hello-world/https://talesofthecork-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/corkboard1.jpgCorkBoard2012-07-10T06:32:54+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.com/2012/07/06/welcome-to-tales-of-the-cork/2012-07-10T06:31:15+00:00monthlyhttps://talesofthecork-blog.comdaily1.02023-10-27T19:34:04+00:00