A Must-Do Napa Experience: Faust Wines in Coombsville

We recently had the pleasure of visiting Faust Wines, and it was nothing short of unforgettable. These high-quality wines truly highlight what makes the Coombsville AVA such a gem within Napa Valley.

Faust is part of the Huneeus Vintners portfolio, which also includes the acclaimed Quintessa. The tasting room, known as Faust Haus, is located in a beautifully restored 1870s Victorian mansion that blends history, architecture, and storytelling into every sip. The mansion’s opulent interior design nods to its namesake—Dr. Faustus, the legendary literary figure who made a pact with the devil.

Outside, guests can relax on a shaded patio that overlooks stunning terraced vineyards—a perfect setting for savoring their incredible wines. And for those intrigued by the supernatural, Faust Haus has a spooky side: its speakeasy-style lower level is said to be haunted by three spirits—August, Joanna, and Mary. August was fond of whiskey, and to this day, a bottle of Jameson is kept open in his honor.

Our host, Casey, was both knowledgeable and energetic, guiding us through the wines and expertly paired snacks. The tasting began on a crisp, clear Napa morning with the 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, a bright and refreshing start enjoyed on the patio.

Next, we moved into a side-by-side tasting of the 2021 Hour Syrah and the 2021 Lure Merlot. The Merlot was a standout—we loved it so much we brought a bottle home to Danville to share with friends.

To conclude, we tasted the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Pact and the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Library Pact. Both were outstanding, but the 2022 Pact in particular won us over, and we left with two bottles to remember the experience.

Final Verdict: Faust Wines is a must-add to your Napa Valley itinerary. From its enchanting setting and captivating history to its spectacular wines, Faust offers an experience that wine lovers won’t soon forget.

👉 Plan your visit and learn more at faustwines.com

25th Anniversary Wheel Chair Foundation

We recently had the honor of attending the 25th Anniversary Gala for the Wheelchair Foundation, an inspiring event aptly named Journey of Hope,held at the elegant Blackhawk Museum.

As proud supporters of the Wheelchair Foundation, we celebrate its incredible impact—having distributed 1.2 million wheelchairs worldwide. The gift of mobility is truly life-changing.

David and Jeff Behring, sons of founder Ken Behring, shared their father’s heartfelt sentiment:

“When I see the happiness on the faces of those receiving a wheelchair, I feel that this is the best thing I have ever done in my life.”

The evening featured a memorable performance by The Camp Jeff All Stars Band, with Dan Ashley as the charismatic Master of Ceremonies. Guests also enjoyed a VIP wine reception, a gourmet dinner by Postino, and an exciting live auction, making for an unforgettable celebration.

As we reflect on this milestone, we look forward to the 30th anniversary and beyond, continuing to bring hope and mobility to those in need.

Monticello Winery: A Napa Gem for Over 50 Years

On our recent visit to Monticello Winery, we were reminded why its been a Napa treasure since 1970.

Founded by Jay Corley, Monticello remains one of the few family-owned wineries in the Napa Valley a point of pride for Jay. He named the winery after Thomas Jefferson’s iconic home in Virginia, modeling it after Jefferson Monticello estate. Jay, a true lover of wine and food, admired Jefferson’s preference for wine over ale, reflecting Jefferson’s belief that a good wine is the necessity of life.This passion for wine is something Jay wholeheartedly shared.

Today, Monticello continues to produce world-class, estate-grown wines.

We were warmly welcomed by Cante, our host for the day, whose enthusiasm and wealth of wine knowledge made the experience even more memorable.

After touring the estate, we started with the 2023 Estate Chardonnay and the 2020 Estate Pinot Noir both were exceptional. Next, we sampled the 2019 Proprietary Red Blend, a smooth combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, which we couldn’t resist taking a couple bottles of back home to Danville to share with our wine-loving friends.

Our tour then moved to a cozy wine room, complete with wine photography, comfortable seating, and a crackling fireplace. There, we sipped on the 2019 Tietjen Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, the 2019 Yewell St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 2019 Corley Reserve Napa Valley. While all were outstanding, the Yewell Cabernet Sauvignon stood out, and we made sure to bring a bottle home.

As Thomas Jefferson famously said, “Good wine is a necessity of life.” At Monticello, they are not just making good wine they are crafting truly great wine. If you’re planning a Napa visit, this winery is a must-see.

For more information and to plan your visit, head to:

https://www.corleyfamilynapavalley.com/

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Paso Robles Rocks:Allegretto Resort and Vineyard

Photo by MJ McColgan

Paso Robles is an amazing destination, and our recent stay at Allegretto Resort and Vineyard was truly exceptional.

Our journey began at Pebble Beach, where we celebrated Super Bowl MJ’s birthday and our anniversary at Spanish Bay.

Just a 2-hour drive from Pebble Beach, Paso Robles, also known as the “New Napa," boasts over 200 wineries producing fantastic wines.

In music, Allegretto signifies a lively tempo of 112-120 beats per minute.

Allegretto, a 20-acre Tuscan-inspired paradise owned by 4th generation hotelier Douglas Ayres, features vineyards, Mediterranean-style architecture, and a range of amenities to rejuvenate your spirit.

The resort offers diverse guest rooms and suites, including ADA-equipped and pet-friendly options, along with excellent meeting facilities and a picturesque setting for weddings.

Indulge in delectable meals at Cello Ristorante, serving South Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes paired with local wines. Don't miss the chance to taste the resort's award-winning private label wines at the Allegretto Tasting Room.

Unwind at the on-site spa with holistic treatments, stay fit at the gym, relax at the outdoor pool and hot tub, and take in the serene atmosphere with art installations and fire pits around the property.

Conveniently located near Paso Robles Event Center and downtown attractions, Allegretto Resort is the perfect base for exploring the area, including the stunning Sensorio light display.

Our visit to Calcareous Vineyard for lunch, breathtaking views, and wine tasting was a highlight—particularly savoring the unique Chardonnay influenced by the calcium-rich soil.

In conclusion, "Paso Robles Rocks," and we highly recommend an unforgettable stay at Allegretto Resort and Vineyard—a truly special place that caters to all. We are eagerly anticipating our next visit!

For more details and reservations, visit https://www.bookonline.com/hotel/allegretto-vineyard-resort-paso-robles?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAABov2PZwcVseeqP08GRoah7uux0oU&trz=0