wine Archives - Jen is on a Journey

Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country: Wine Tours with a Twist @VisitSYV

April 1, 2016 by The Mom Jen 1 Comment

photo courtesy of Tenley Fohl Photography

Whether it’s your first time exploring the Santa Ynez Valley or your fifteenth, how you taste your way through wine country can be just as important as what you taste. To be sure, world-class wine awaits here. But discovering new and different ways to experience the Santa Ynez Valley’s 100-plus wineries and four distinct AVAs—such as walking, cycling or riding horseback, to name a few—can be just as memorable as the wine itself. While there are a number of wine tour operators in the Valley, and professionally guided tours are available by limo, jeep, or private van for groups large and small, here are some suggestions for those looking for a more non-traditional way to explore the Santa Ynez Valley wine country:

Horseback: Vino Vaqueros offers wine country explorers the chance to soak in the beauty and serenity of the Santa Ynez Valley landscape on horseback as they ride through vineyards and ranchlands followed by tastings at either Estelle Vineyard or Fess Parker Winery.

photo courtesy of o Tenley Fohl Photography

Cycling: Ranging from leisure-paced to vigorous, and with single and multiple day tour options available, exploring wine country on two wheels with attentive, knowledgeable and responsible guides is a heart healthy and soul-satisfying way to sip and savor.

photo courtesy of Visit SYV and Sideways

Movie-themed: Fans of the 2004 Oscar-winning film Sideways can follow in the footsteps of Miles and Jack with the Sideways Wine Route, which features many of the same wineries, restaurants and other stops that comprised the pair’s Santa Ynez Valley adventure.

Self-guided walking: Park the car for the day and stroll along the Solvang Wine Walk or the Los Olivos Promenade. With dozens of tasting rooms clustered close together, this is a great option for visitors short on time or who want to combine wine tasting with restaurant, shopping and cultural experiences.

UberWine: Connect with a driver on demand, which can accommodate groups of up to six people. With no limits on time or distance, UberWine is a no-frills, low-cost alternative to traditional wine tours.

Regardless of what mode of transportation your Santa Ynez Valley wine tour entails, vibrant vineyards surrounded by rural roads and oak-studded hills set the backdrop for a region that produces a palate-pleasing range of varietals, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier.

But what sets this region apart, and why those who visit tend to return year after year, is that so many of the wineries located in the Santa Ynez Valley are boutique, family-run operations known for welcoming visitors in an unpretentious, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. And with tasting rooms and wineries clustered close together, a wine-focused trip to the Santa Ynez Valley means more time actually spent tasting, and less time traveling from winery to winery.

About the Santa Ynez Valley:

Just two hours from Los Angeles and a scenic four-hour drive from San Francisco, the Santa Ynez Valley feels worlds apart from both. With six distinct communities encompassing everything from classic California wine country to Northern European traditions to the very best of the Old West, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to endless possibilities. Here in and around the towns of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez and Solvang visitors will find more than 100 wineries, incredible food, special events and a unique, rich heritage. For more information, including a complete listing of restaurants, wineries, tasting rooms and events, go to VisitSYV.com.

5 Ways to Relax at Home After a Long Day #CRIOSinspires @CriosWines

October 23, 2015 by The Mom Jen 5 Comments

crios Relaxation is good for the mind, good for the body, and good for the soul. It’s should be an essential part of every single day, yet making time for it can be tough. I work at home, my husband commutes and we’re both beat at the end of the day but often still have commitments, kid’s activities, and chores that leaves little free time before we’re collapsing into bed.

When we do find an hour or so at home to wind down after a long day, here are 5 ways to relax that we enjoy, counting down to number one being our favorite.

5. Music Pandora radio is a favorite of ours. We stream it in our car when we’re traveling and through our tv and surround sound speakers at home. It’s amazing how the whole demeanor of the household changes as soon as music comes on. Stress melts away as you channel all your energy into singing along or even dancing a little bit. We probably have the most random selection of stations like BeeGees, Cake, Styx, Amos Lee, Metallica, and Disney Radio but we love so many styles. I think I love how music triggers memories most and when I’m listening to 80’s radio I flashback to my teen days bopping around to Duran Duran, ahhh to be young again.

4. Reading Books take your mind to other places and that helps shut off the “busyness” of my brain to focus on the story. I have 3 entirely different-genre books on my bedside table, but I’m focusing on Bossypants this week by Tina Fey. Laughing and reading is a great combination for relieving stress, so I’ll buy this type of book probably every third time. Lately I’ve been laughing so heartily my husband asks to read him a passage aloud, then we’re laughing together, bonus points! Also, reading makes my eyes tired, simple as that. Every morning my book is either tucked askew under my pillow or on the floor as I fell asleep reading and that is a great way to end any night.

3. Netflix This way to watch television is brilliant and we’ve only been introduced to it recently. We’re currently watching LOST all over again. We watched it when it aired live and now over ten years later it’s so much better and we can understand it a bit more. There’s nothing like a marathon of your favorite shows without commercials back to back…to back! I think our record is 8 episodes in a weekend day, probably only two in an evening if we’re lucky.

2. Chocolate Chocolate makes everything better. Busy day, no problem. Kids fighting, take a bite. Bored and hungry, eat up. It has seem to be the medication my body and mind needs on any occasion, but sitting down and enjoying chocolate is always relaxing to me. This week I’m spoiled, my daughter is selling candy bars for her school field trip. I may just be her best customer!

1. Wine
Possibly my most favorite way to relax and unwind with my hubby at home is drinking wine. Wine just screams relaxation to me. We enjoy it with friends, with meals, but mostly on it’s own. My husband created a great space in our backyard with seating and sparkling lights for warm nights like we’ve been having. Add a bottle of Crios Argentinian wine and the crisp notes of white flower, pear, and ripe peach release endorphins in my body almost immediately.

We’ve been drinking Crios Torrontes, a family owned brand by Susana Balbo that means “offspring” and she created as a tribute to her two children. Each of Balbo’s 5 varietals have a story behind them and an inspirational message that has represented either a milestone in Susana’s personal or professional life or how the wine was made. As a mother, this wine means even more to me. I’ve toured wineries and vineyards and have spoken with winemakers and their passion and love for their craft, like Susana’s, truly makes me enjoy the wine even more! I love Torrontes mostly for it’s bright fruit-forward style, thanks to the specific areas in Mendoza and Salta in Argentina where grapes are optimal. Crios Torrontes White Wine CRIOS TORRONTES
Inspirational message of the wine: Break the rules
Life lesson and tasting notes: Susana Balbo, Argentina’s leading and most innovative winemaker, transformed Torrontés from a common blending grape to Argentina’s star white wine.
Pairing: Smoked meats, medium cheeses, fish, crab, sushi
Brief descriptors: dry, crispy and aromatic

I think on the best of nights, all 5 of these items can come into play and then ultimate relaxation occurs. Okay, those days are few and far between, but can happen if we try really hard. Tell me, what are your favorite ways to relax at home?

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

France Really Does Have a Wine to Suit Everyone

August 12, 2015 by The Mom Jen 5 Comments

Everyone has their favorite wine, but people who only stick to what they know are missing out. When it comes to being adventurous and trying new wines the best place to start has got to be in the French wine section.

Chablis
Chablis is one of the most famous of the white French wines. It is produced in an area in the north of Burgundy and is naturally high in acidity, fresh citrus notes are counterbalanced by the lingering minerality from the limestone content in the soil. This wine comes in four appellations. Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru and Grand Cru all refer to the specific types of vineyards in which the chardonnay grapes that are used are grown. Petit Chablis is often referred to as a ‘starter wine’ as its taste is not as pronounced as a true Chablis, and it is also the cheapest option. The quality of the wine gradually increases up to the Grand Cru. A wine novice is unlikely to detect much difference but for someone who drinks Chablis on a regular occasion the difference in taste notes between the appellations is distinctive.

Chateauneuf du Pape
Chateauneuf du Pape is famous for being a red wine, which is not surprising when only 5% of the production is devoted to making white wine. The red wines are made using a variety of methods but they all share a fresh cherry taste that is combined with strawberry, black raspberry, spice, black pepper and earthy undertones. The acidity means that sweetness is all but redundant in the taste so this is not the drink for anyone who enjoys a sweet wine. One of the great things about Chateauneuf du Pape wine, other than that taste, is that is can be enjoyed at a wide range of maturities. When young it is more luscious to drink, but as it ages it becomes more silky in texture.

Champagne
Champagne is often regarded as the highest quality wine and one which people use to celebrate. The celebration aspect of Champagne usually comes from the bubbles and the infamous popping of the cork. What is interesting about Champagne is that it is made from a blend of 3 grapes; Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Pinot Meunier. It also starts out life as a still wine. The way in which the bubbles are added to Champagne (by dissolving the gas into the wine during the fermentation process) is what gives it the smooth and enjoyable texture. Champagne is a versatile wine that can be produced in a range of styles from very dry to fully sweet. Within the French wine repertoire there is something for everyone. A range of white wines, red wines and sparkling wines are produced all over the country using different grapes, different methods and creating totally different flavors. From novice to expert, France really does cater for all palettes.

Special guest post provided to Jen is on a Journey. Images used under the Creative Commons.

Napa Valley: 2015 Masters and Makers Winemaker Dinner Series at The Meritage Resort and Spa

July 14, 2015 by The Mom Jen 4 Comments

The Meritage Resort and Spa is announcing its 2015 Masters and Makers Winemaker Dinner series. Invited wineries include some of the most prestigious and well-known wineries and winemakers from across the Napa Valley including Trinchero Napa Valley, Schramsberg Vineyards, J. Davies Estate, Charles Krug Winery, Silver Oak, and Twomey Cellars. Each dinner will provide a special experience for guests.

Additional information, including reservations, is available online at MeritageResort.com/Events.

Napa Valley: 2015 Masters and Makers Winemaker Dinner Series at The Meritage Resort and Spa Masters Winemaker Dinner Series with Schramsberg Vineyards and J. Davies Estate
August 28, 2015 @ 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
$125 per person

Join The Meritage Resort for our Winemaker Dinner Series on Friday, August 28, with Schramsberg Vineyards and J. Davies Estate.

The dinner reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the beautiful Vineyard Deck or Estate Cave (weather dependent), where delicious hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served. Then, retreat into our underground Estate Cave at 7 p.m. and savor an unforgettable multi-course dinner with wine pairings and sweet desserts!

Mingle with other guests and members from the Schramsberg Vineyards and J. Davies Estate wine making team to learn about the history of the vineyards that are among Napa Valley’s oldest, and the role their wines have even played in world history. We will taste some of their top varietals ranging from whites to reds to sparkling.

Napa Valley: 2015 Masters and Makers Winemaker Dinner Series at The Meritage Resort and Spa Masters Winemaker Dinner Series with Charles Krug Winery
September 4, 2015 @ 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
$125 – $175 per person

The Meritage Resort and Spa will welcome Charles Krug Winery, owned by the Peter Mondavi Sr. family since 1943, as it continues its Masters Winemaker Dinner Series on September 4.

The dinner reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the Vineyard Deck or Estate Cave (weather dependent), with hors d’oeuvres and wine. Dinner will follow in the Estate Cave, where guests will enjoy a fabulous multi-course dinner featuring some of the top wines from Charles Krug Winery.

Guests will have the opportunity to hear from members of the Peter Mondavi Sr. family, and others from Charles Krug while enjoying fabulous wines paired with delicious foods, and learning about the history of Napa Valley’s first winery, Charles Krug, which was founded in 1861. Everyone will learn how both Krug and four generations of Mondavi’s have influenced Napa Valley’s development as a world-renown wine-producing region through innovation and dedication to their craft.

About Charles Krug Winery
Founded in 1861 by Charles Krug, the 27-year old Prussian immigrant came to America with little besides willpower and a willingness to work hard to build the cornerstone of the first winery in the Napa Valley. He became the major local winery figure of his era, greatly influencing Napa Valley’s development as a world-renown wine-producing region. It is the oldest commercial winery in the Napa Valley. In 1943, Cesare and Rosa Mondavi purchased Charles Krug Winery. The family is now in their fourth generation and Peter Mondavi Sr., at 100 years old, continues to pass on his passion and legacy for wine making to his grandchildren.

This video was produced and shown at the 2013 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Awards in which Peter Mondavi Sr. received the American Wine Legend Award. The video includes thoughts from Peter, his sons Marc and Peter Jr., and his granddaughters Angelina and Alycia. Watch Video.

Napa Valley: 2015 Masters and Makers Winemaker Dinner Series at The Meritage Resort and Spa Masters Winemaker Dinner Series with Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars
October 30, 2015 @ 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
$135 per person

This unforgettable evening will bring together the culinary talents of both the chef from Silver Oak, Dominic Orsini, and culinary team from The Meritage Resort, as they pair dishes with award winning wines from Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars. The dinner reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the hillside vineyards behind The Meritage Resort or Estate Cave (weather dependent), where appetizers and wine start the wine and food journey. After appetizers, retreat into the underground Estate Cave at 7 p.m. to continue the multi-course dinner paired with Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars wines including a course paired with the very rare 2006 Napa Valley Cabernet from the Silver Oak Library.

Silver Oak is single-minded in their 40 plus year pursuit of exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley and Alexander Valley. Twomey Cellars combines 40 years of experience with the spirit of innovation to create a Bordeaux style of Merlot, American Viticulture Area Specific Pinot Noirs, and a Sauvignon Blanc from estate owned vineyards in Oakville, Calistoga, Sebastopol, and Healdsburg. Both wineries create exceptional, food-friendly, moderate alcohol wines that are deliciously drinkable upon release or years later.

Additional events coming to The Meritage Resort and Spa include:
• July 30: Pint Night with Lagunitas Brewing Co. in Crush Ultra Lounge
• August 8: Seventh Annual Trinitas Cellars Lobster Feed
• December 31: New Year’s Eve Dinner and Ballroom Celebration
• February 13–15, 2016: Third Annual Masters and Makers @ Meritage

HandCraft by Cheryl Indelicato Wines: Pinot Grigio and Malbec

June 19, 2015 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

My “little” nephew Jakey had graduated and we were getting together to celebrate. It was the perfect time to break out the newest members of the HandCraft Artisan wine family; the Malbec and Pinot Grigio. All HandCraft by Cheryl Indelicato wines feature convenient twist off tops for those of us who are sometimes cork-challenged (cough, cough – that would be me).

As well gathered in the backyard around the BBQ and fire-pit I sipped on the delightfully fresh Pinot Grigio. Its’ aroma was fresh and fruity with hints of honeysuckle and lemon blossom (two of my most favorite flower fragrances). It went down easy and was fresh and crisp. This medium-bodied wine went great with the grilled fish we enjoyed that afternoon.

The HandCraft Pinot Grigio is harvested in the cool evening hours to help retain the grapes natural acidity where it is cold-settled and delicately pressed. Then slow, cold temperature fermentation takes place entirely in stainless steel tanks to capture and enhance the fruit flavors and floral aroma.

Kelly enjoyed the Malbec saying it was especially smooth and that she enjoyed the hints of coffee and cocoa. She said it was a great paired with the BBQ sausages and had a soft finish.

The HandCraft Malbec is hand harvested also in cool temperatures and taken immediately to the winery to small lot fermenters. After a brief cold soak they are gently warmed to enhance the color and flavor extraction. Once the fermentation is complete the Malbec is aged in French and American oak to soften the tannins. A touch of Zinfandel is added for complexity and a hint of spice.

Cheryl Indelicato is a third generation vintner and ensures that HandCraft wines honor their Italian heritage while celebrating their California home. HandCraft wines are available in retail outlet nationwide and pride themselves on giving back to causes such as Breast Cancer Awareness.

If you are looking for something new to accompany you to the neighborhood get-togethers or just to enjoying at home enjoying summer’s long lazy afternoons, HandCraft Malbec ($11.99) and Pinot Grigio ($11.99) won’t disappoint.

Bridgette writes for Jen is on a Journey–I’m a mom with 3 kids (translated…a husband and 2 boys – 12 and 14 ) who’s reached that 35-47 age bracket. I love music, coffee, crafting, and devouring a good book! I currently work as the Office Administrator at a preschool. I’ve also worked as an HR Assistant, 911 Communications Operator, and Golf Course Starter. Our family loves animals, camping and fishing, baseball, hockey, and going to the movies. We have 4 cats and 1 amazing dog, Buster. When the kids aren’t playing baseball, we love spending time with our friends and family.

Product was sent for honest review, all opinions my own.