Robert Biale Vineyards: The Legend of Black Chicken Zinfandel

Tucked away in Napa Valley’s scenic Oak Knoll District, Robert Biale Vineyards has long been a pilgrimage site for lovers of Zinfandel. Known for its iconic Black Chicken Zinfandel, this storied estate blends family history, craftsmanship, and a dash of old Napa charm.

The winery’s roots stretch back to 1991, when Robert Biale, together with Dave Pramuk, Al Perry, and his father Aldo Biale, founded what would become one of Napa’s most beloved Zinfandel producers. Today, Robert continues to lead as Owner, President, and Vineyard Operations Manager, honoring the traditions that began generations earlier.

The vineyard’s location in the Oak Knoll District provides ideal conditions for Zinfandel—gravelly soils, warm afternoons, and cool evening breezes that invite old-world winemaking methods to shine. Under the direction of Winemaker David Natali, the portfolio now includes 20 beautifully crafted wines, with Black Chicken Zinfandel serving as the standard-bearer for the varietal.

The “Black Chicken” name itself has become Napa folklore. In the 1940s, a resourceful 14-year-old Aldo Biale helped his mother make ends meet by selling produce, eggs, and a little something extra—his family’s homemade Zinfandel. To keep curious neighbors and local authorities at bay, Aldo used the party-line telephone system’s secret code: ordering “a Black Chicken” meant a jug of bootleg wine was on its way.

During our visit, we were warmly welcomed by Alina, our knowledgeable host, who guided us through a relaxed tasting on the sunlit patio overlooking rows of vines painted in autumn’s golden hues.

We began with a side-by-side tasting of the 2022 and 2023 Black Chicken Napa Valley Zinfandel, each showcasing the rich fruit and lively spice that define this signature wine. Both vintages were so irresistible that we left with a bottle of each to share with friends back home in Danville.

Our tasting continued with an impressive lineup:

• 2023 Aldo Napa Valley Zinfandel
• 2023 Varozza St. Helena Zinfandel
• 2023 Bedrock Sonoma Valley Zinfandel
• 2023 Royal Punishers Napa Valley Petite Sirah

Each wine expressed a distinct personality while staying true to the vineyard’s elegant, fruit-forward style. The finale—a luscious Petite Sirah dessert wine—was nothing short of sensational and quickly earned a place in our collection.

From its humble beginnings to its modern-day acclaim, Robert Biale Vineyards embodies the spirit of Napa: passion, authenticity, and a deep respect for tradition. A visit here isn’t just a tasting—it’s an experience steeped in history and flavor.

For more information or to reserve a tasting, visit:

👉 www.biale.com

Las Vegas: The Venetian Hotel and The Sphere

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting dazzling Las Vegas — truly the “City That Never Sleeps.”

We stayed at the elegant Venetian Hotel, conveniently located within easy walking distance of the spectacular Sphere. After a short flight from Oakland Airport, a limousine whisked us to the Venetian, where we checked into a fabulous suite with sweeping views of the Vegas skyline.

Our visit began with a delightful brunch at Chef Thomas Keller’s acclaimed Bouchon, one of our all-time favorites. Located inside the Venetian, Bouchon serves both brunch and dinner daily, and once again, Chef Keller’s classic French cuisine did not disappoint.

On a perfect sunny Las Vegas morning, we enjoyed cocktails, delicious food, and impeccable service on the restaurant’s charming patio. The croque madame, quiche, and frites were outstanding, and we especially loved the warm muffins and decadent desserts.

After a short rest, we made our way to the Sphere for a spectacular Eagles concert, celebrating 53 years of legendary music. The band opened with Hotel California and performed for over two mesmerizing hours — a truly unforgettable experience enhanced by the Sphere’s breathtaking sound and visual effects.

The following day, we returned to the Sphere for the classic Wizard of Oz show, another sensational performance that brought new magic to this timeless story.

That evening, we dined at Smith & Wollensky, one of America’s premier steakhouses. Founded in 1977 by Alan Stillman in New York City, the restaurant now boasts many locations across the U.S. and abroad. Interestingly, its famous name was chosen at random from the New York phone book! The Las Vegas location, set in the Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes, lived up to its stellar reputation with outstanding steaks and service.

To end the evening, we enjoyed a soothing gondola ride through the Venetian’s pristine waterways — a peaceful and romantic way to conclude a wonderful trip.

In conclusion, the Sphere is an absolute “must-do” — a world-class entertainment venue that deserves a spot on every Las Vegas bucket list.

For more information, visit:

👉 https://www.thesphere.com

Spanish Wine Luncheon at Ken Behring’s Table

Recently, wine appreciators Tony Giovanzana, Mike L. McColgan, David Behring, Jeff Behring, and Steve Carlson gathered for another memorable luncheon at Blackhawk Country Club, seated at founder Ken Behring’s favorite table in the Lakeside main dining room.

This time, organizer Tony Giovanzana invited Michelle Morey, Wine Manager at Draeger’s Market. Michelle has revitalized the store’s Saturday Wine and Cheese Tastings, which she successfully relaunched a year ago after a pandemic pause. The tastings—once a beloved pre-Covid tradition—are now more popular than ever as Draeger’s celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Michelle brings a wealth of wine knowledge and extensive experience from her years in high-end restaurants. Her husband, Steve Morey, is also a master sommelier—making them a true power duo in the world of wine.

For this special luncheon, themed “Wines of Spain,” Michelle and Tony curated eight outstanding selections from Draeger’s extensive international collection. The wines were artfully paired with a four-course menu created by Chef Joseph Salazar and served with professionalism by Kevin.

The meal began with Croquetas de Jamón Serrano—serrano ham, manchego, and pimentos de la vera aioli—paired with Riola 2022 and Riola 2020.

The second course featured Olive-Crusted Bacalao, beautifully matched with “Com Tu” Clos Mogador Montsant 2019.

Next came Cordero a la Riojana—seared lamb with white bean and chistorra purée, garlic chips, and Tempranillo jus—paired with Gran Reserva Riola 2018 and Imperial Gran Reserva Riola.

The fourth course, Braised Cap de Ruc à la Doñana, presented tender beef cheek with black garlic, red wine jus, salsify, and charred spring onion confit. This course was paired with Clos Martinet 2021 and Clos Mogador Priorat 2019.

To conclude, Terra de Santiago—an orange blossom crème—was perfectly complemented by Jorge Ordóñez Málaga Victoria.

It was another delightful afternoon of fine food, friendship, and Spanish wines, all enjoyed at Ken Behring’s table overlooking the beautiful 18th green at Blackhawk Country Club. The group looks forward to gathering again in March 2026 for their next luncheon celebration.

Draeger’s Market 100th Anniversary Wine Tasting

Recently, we had the pleasure of attending Draeger’s 100th Anniversary Wine Tasting, hosted by Wine Manager Michelle and her knowledgeable assistant, Ryan, at the beautiful Draeger’s Cooking School in Blackhawk.

For the past year, Draeger’s has delighted guests every Saturday with complimentary wine and cheese tastings at the wine bar, featuring selections from around the world. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., loyal patrons have gathered to sip thoughtfully chosen wines and champagnes, paired perfectly with cheeses from Draeger’s renowned wine and cheese department. To make the experience even better, guests enjoy exclusive discounts on their favorite bottles.

In celebration of Draeger’s centennial milestone, the anniversary tasting was elevated to an elegant, invitation-only affair. Michelle and Ryan curated a star-studded lineup of exquisite wines and artisanal cheeses, creating a memorable day  that showcased Draeger’s legacy of quality and hospitality.

A heartfelt thank you to Draeger’s Market for marking 100 years of excellence with such a special celebration.

If you haven’t yet experienced the Saturday tastings, we highly recommend stopping by. It’s the perfect way to enrich your shopping trip—and perhaps discover a new favorite wine. We look forward to raising a glass with you soon!

Le Petit Chef: San Francisco’s Smallest Star with the Biggest Show

San Francisco has no shortage of memorable dining experiences, from Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy to hole-in-the-wall gems serving cult-worthy bites. 

But tucked among them is something entirely different—a dinner where your table transforms into a stage, your plate becomes a screen, and your chef is just 58 millimeters tall. 

Welcome to Le Petit Chef, a theatrical dining adventure that blends storytelling, technology, and international cuisine into one dazzling dinner located at the Hyatt Regency SOMA in San Francisco.

Created by Skullmapping Studios in Belgium in 2015, Le Petit Chef uses 3D projection mapping to bring the world’s tiniest chef to life. 

Before each course, diners watch the animated character scurry across the table, chop imaginary vegetables, and sometimes fumble through comedic cooking mishaps.

It’s part theater, part cinema, and part fine dining. And while the performance is lively and lighthearted, the artistry is remarkable—every gesture is perfectly timed to the arrival of each dish.

Guests can choose from four menus—Grand, Classic, Vegan, or Kid’s—making it accessible whether you’re indulging in a gourmet evening out, keeping it plant-based, or bringing the whole family.

While the show is identical across all menus, the food reflects the Classic base menu, meaning no one misses out on the chef’s vision. Think vibrant Burrata Salad dressed with avocado Green Goddess, a seafood-rich Crab Cioppino Bisque, and a hearty Grilled Prime Striploin with confit potato and roasted Thumbelina carrots. Dessert is playful and nostalgic: a towering Ice Cream Sundae layered with devil’s food cake, vanilla ice cream, and salted caramel. This was the dinner we experienced.

This isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about how the entire evening unfolds. Families find themselves laughing together, couples lean into the whimsy, and solo travelers quickly realize they’ve stumbled into something unlike anything else in the city.

San Francisco has long embraced the blend of innovation and art, and Le Petit Chef feels right at home here. It’s as much about memory-making as it is about dining, which is why it has become a global phenomenon, delighting audiences from Dubai to Paris before landing in the Bay Area.

The Takeaway

Yes, the food is refined and flavorful, but the true magic is how the performance amplifies the meal. It’s not trying to outshine Michelin-starred kitchens; it’s offering something different—an experience that’s joyful, surprising, and utterly shareable.

If you’re looking for one of San Francisco’s most unique dining adventures, don’t look up at the skyline. Look down at your plate, where the smallest chef in the world is ready to take you on a journey you won’t forget.

For more info go to:

lepetitchef.com

Prestigious Pine Ridge Vineyards

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Pine Ridge Vineyards, nestled in the sensational Stags Leap District of Napa Valley.

Founded in 1978 by Gary Andrus, Pine Ridge has grown into one of Napa’s most respected wineries. Now part of the Crimson Wine Group, it continues to honor its legacy while expanding its reach, crafting wines that showcase the unique terroirs of the region.

The estate operates vineyards across five premier Napa appellations—Stags Leap District, Howell Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford, and Carneros. With a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture, Pine Ridge proudly holds Napa Green certification and embraces water- and soil-conscious farming practices, as well as wildlife-friendly land stewardship.

Estate winemaker Josh Widaman, alongside Colleen Fitzgerald, focuses on producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to their acclaimed Bordeaux-style blends, Pine Ridge is also known for its distinctive and highly popular Chenin Blanc + Viognier blend—a refreshing and unique white wine that has developed a loyal following.

Our visit began with a cave tasting experience guided by our passionate and knowledgeable host, Enrique. We started with a chilled glass of 2024 Sauvignon Blanc and the famed Chenin Blanc + Viognier. Both were excellent, though the Viognier in particular stood out, living up to its reputation for elegance and vibrant character.

From there, we moved deeper into the impressive cave tasting room to enjoy an array of red wines, including the 2022 Malbec, 2022 Carneros Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2022 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. Each wine reflected its appellation beautifully, but the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon was especially memorable—rich, layered, and structured, a true standout of the tasting.

We left with a few bottles of the Howell Mountain Cabernet and the Chenin Blanc + Viognier to bring back to Danville and share with friends.

In conclusion, Pine Ridge Vineyards is an experience not to be missed—a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, sustainability, and world-class hospitality. It truly deserves a place on your Napa Valley bucket list.

For more information or to book your own tasting experience, visit:

👉 www.pineridgevineyards.com

Sensational Edgewood Tahoe Lodge ✨

Recently, we returned to the Edgewood Tahoe Lodge for some well-deserved fun in the sun. This place holds countless special memories for us, especially after playing in the American Century Golf Tournament for 15 years. It’s no wonder Lake Tahoe is known as “Heavenly Valley.”

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of playing—and even winning—with some amazing celebrities, including Joe Theismann, Mark Mulder, Mardy Fish, and Tim Brown, to name just a few. Having teed it up on world-class courses across the globe, Edgewood still remains one of our absolute favorites.

There’s nothing quite like lining up a 15-foot putt while gazing at snow-capped mountains standing guard over the lake. The course is designed for every level of golfer, with tees thoughtfully set up for all skill levels. Even my wife Linda found the forward tees to be welcoming and enjoyable—making the round that much more fun.

And of course, no day at Edgewood is complete without a stop at the legendary Brooks Bar, perched beside the picturesque 18th hole. With its sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, Brooks Bar has earned its reputation as the #2 “Best 19th Hole in the World”—a well-deserved honor.

The lodge itself is every bit as exceptional, with a wonderful restaurant, balcony rooms overlooking the deep-blue lake, and an atmosphere that feels both elegant and relaxed.

When it comes to dinner traditions, ours always leads us to Friday’s Station atop Harrah’s. This fine-dining gem offers spectacular food, impeccable service from waiters in black tuxedos, and panoramic views that make every evening unforgettable.

In the end, Edgewood Lodge & Golf Course truly is a slice of heaven—a destination that belongs at the very top of any golfer’s bucket list.

To book a reservation go to

https://edgewoodtahoe.com

22nd Annual Wheelchair Foundation Golf Tournament Drive for Mobility at Blackhawk Country Club

 

The 22nd Wheelchair Foundation Drive for Mobility Golf Tournament recently took place at the beautiful Blackhawk Country Club—and once again, it was a tremendous success.

Under sunny skies and warm temperatures, a full field of golfers kicked off the day with a festive Bloody Mary bar and a warm welcome from the beloved Golf Angels. Upon check-in, each participant received a commemorative Piper keychain and a gift certificate to choose select gear from the on-site TravisMathew pro shop.

The course was buzzing with energy all day, with food, drinks, and games at nearly every hole. Fuddruckers was back by popular demand, serving up their iconic burgers, while the tournament wrapped up with an elegant 19th hole wine reception featuring fine wines. In addition, at the dinner players at each table enjoyed  great bottles of red and white wines.

 

A highlight of the evening was legendary sportscaster Mark Ibanez, who brought excitement and generosity to the live auction. Guests were also treated to the stirring sound of a bagpiper performing on the 18th green just before dinner.

 

Special thanks go to all the Team Wheelchair members, sponsors, and supporters who made this unforgettable day possible.

 

Most importantly, the real winners are the individuals around the world who will receive the life-changing gift of mobility. To date, the Wheelchair Foundation has distributed over 1.2 million wheelchairs across the 

globe—one chair, one life transformed at a time.

 

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 23rd Annual Tournament in 2026!

Quintessa: 280 Acres of Winemaking Excellence in Rutherford

Nestled in the heart of Rutherford, the breathtaking Quintessa estate spans 280 acres of rolling vineyards, scenic hills, and tranquil lakes — a true gem in Napa Valley.

“Quintessa” is derived from the word “quintessence,” a nod to the five grape varietals grown on the estate: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, Carménère, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These grapes are meticulously cultivated to create wines of remarkable character and depth.

Founded by Valeria and Agustin Huneeus, Quintessa was envisioned as one of the world’s premier wine estates. Today, the exceptional wines that flow from this land have brought their vision to life, earning acclaim from connoisseurs around the globe.

Our visit began with a guided tour of the estate, available either by foot or via golf cart. We opted for the cart and were treated to sweeping views of vineyards, olive trees, and the serene lake that anchors the property.

Following the tour, we were welcomed into the sleek, modern tasting room, where our host Lisa greeted us with warmth and enthusiasm. Her deep knowledge and genuine passion for Quintessa’s wines made the experience even more memorable.

We started with the 2024 Illumination, a luminous white wine — an artful blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc Musqué, and Sémillon. It was crisp, balanced, and beautifully expressive.

Next, we enjoyed a side-by-side tasting of the 2022 and 2013 Quintessa vintages. Both were exceptional, but the 2022 stood out for its complexity and elegance. A masterful blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 1% each of Carménère, Merlot, and Petite Verdot, it captured the very essence of the estate’s terroir.

We couldn’t leave empty-handed — a bottle of the 2024 Illumination and the 2022 Quintessa came home with us to Danville, ready to be shared with friends.

If you’re planning a Napa Valley getaway, Quintessa is an unforgettable experience — a must-visit for any wine lover’s bucket list.

To learn more or make a reservation, visit:

🔗 https://www.quintessa.com/