Healdsburg: A Wine Country Escape Worth Savoring

Recently, we had the pleasure of spending a few wonderful days at Appellation Healdsburg, nestled in the heart of charming Healdsburg. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this luxurious property is something special—and a perfect home base for exploring Sonoma Wine Country.

Opened by renowned chef Charlie Palmer, Appellation Healdsburg combines sophisticated hospitality with the relaxed, welcoming spirit of the region. The hotel has already earned impressive recognition, including being named No. 1 by Travel + Leisure.

With 108 beautifully appointed rooms, two pools, a spa, dog-friendly accommodations, convenient parking and ADA-accessible rooms, the hotel offers everything you could want for a relaxing Wine Country getaway.

And then there is the food! Folio, the hotel’s signature restaurant, and Andy’s Beeline, the rooftop restaurant named for Charlie Palmer’s business partner, offer an impressive selection of food, wine and creative cocktails. Whether enjoying a leisurely dinner or relaxing with a cocktail while taking in the rooftop views, both are destinations in their own right.

One of the highlights of our stay was working with Karla, the hotel’s knowledgeable concierge. She arranged wine tastings at two wonderful wineries, making it easy for us to experience some of the best of the area. Our hosts at Ridge and Stonestreet were both enthusiastic and proud to share their wines and stories with us. Their passion made the tastings especially memorable.

Of course, we couldn’t leave Wine Country empty-handed! We brought home a few bottles from each winery to enjoy and share with our friends in Danville—extending our Healdsburg experience long after we returned home.

The Verdict

For anyone looking for a luxurious, relaxing and delicious Wine Country escape, Appellation Healdsburg deserves a spot on your bucket list. With exceptional dining, beautiful accommodations, a wonderful concierge team and easy access to outstanding wineries, it is the kind of place that makes you start planning your next visit before you’ve even checked out.

We certainly look forward to returning soon!

To make a reservation go to:

https://www.appellationhotels.com/hotels/california-healdsburg/

Clos du Val: A Napa Valley Icon Where History, Elegance, and Bordeaux Craftsmanship Meet

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Clos du Val Winery in Napa Valley’s renowned Stags Leap District. Clos du Val—French for “small vineyard estate in a small valley”—is known for elegant Bordeaux-style wines that showcase Napa Valley terroir.

Founded in 1972 by entrepreneur John Goelet and French winemaker Bernard Portet, the winery earned global recognition when its Cabernet Sauvignon was featured in the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris, the blind tasting that reshaped the world’s view of California wine.

Today,third-generation proprietor Olav Goelet and winemaker Carmel Greenberg  carry the legacy forward. Their flagship Bordeaux blend, Yettalil, is named for Olav’s grandmother, Henrietta Yettalil Goelet. As Olav shares, “She inspired the entire family to live a life of adventure and to embrace the joy of bringing happiness to others.”

Our host, Fabian, led a fantastic tasting on the winery’s patio overlooking sunlit vineyards. With perfect  Napa weather, it was an unforgettable setting.

We began with the bright 2023 Rosé of Cabernet Franc, fresh and lively with crisp acidity. Next was the 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, vibrant, balanced, and refreshing.

The highlight of the tasting was the 2023 Cabernet Franc—a blend of 80% Cabernet Franc, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 2% Carménère. It delivered layered notes of cranberry, pomegranate, and clove with impressive elegance. We enjoyed it so much that two bottles came home to Danville.

We then moved to the 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and the flagship 2023 Yettalil.

The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot) was rich and structured, with dark fruit, refined tannins, and a long finish—classic Napa Cabernet.

The 2023 Yettalil was a standout finale. Its blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Malbec, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Carménère created a wine of depth, finesse, and beautiful balance.

If you’re planning a Napa Valley trip, Clos du Val is a must-visit. It offers exceptional wines, warm hospitality, and one of the most scenic settings in the Stags Leap District.

For more information or to reserve a tasting, visit https://www.closduval.com/.

Grand Opening: Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center

Recently, we had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of the beautifully renovated Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley’s renowned Rutherford AVA.

Founded in 1900 by Georges and Fernande de Latour, Beaulieu Vineyard has long been one of Napa Valley’s most historic and respected wineries. Legend has it that when Fernande first laid eyes on the estate, she exclaimed, “Quel beau lieu!”—French for “What a beautiful place!” More than 125 years later, the name still perfectly captures the beauty and character of this remarkable property.

A defining moment in the winery’s history came in 1938 with the arrival of the legendary André Tchelistcheff, widely regarded as the father of modern California winemaking. His groundbreaking innovations—including aging wines in small French oak barrels, introducing malolactic fermentation, and pioneering cold fermentation techniques—revolutionized California viticulture and established Beaulieu Vineyard as one of the state’s premier wineries.

In 2016, Beaulieu Vineyard entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Treasury Wine Estates. More recently, in March 2025, the winery welcomed acclaimed winemaker Nate Weis, formerly of Silver Oak, as Senior Winemaker and General Manager. His appointment signals an exciting future while honoring the winery’s storied past.

Following a meticulous two-year restoration, the new Hospitality Center is both elegant and inviting. Highlights include the sophisticated Members’ Lounge, the impressive Georges de Latour Library, and the sun-filled Atrium, where our tasting experience took place.

Our gracious host, Julie, guided us through the afternoon with warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep knowledge of Beaulieu Vineyard’s history and wines.

Our visit began with a refreshing glass of the 2025 Sauvignon Blanc as we explored the beautifully restored building, admiring historical photographs and exhibits that celebrate more than a century of winemaking excellence.

Accompanied by delicate tea sandwiches and classic deviled eggs, our tasting opened with the 2023 Los Carneros Pinot Noir. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, it displayed a brilliant ruby color with silky tannins, vibrant cherry fruit, and remarkable elegance.

Next was the 2022 Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Franc, an outstanding blend of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich, expressive, and beautifully balanced, it was one of our favorite wines of the afternoon.

From the Rutherford AVA, we sampled the 2022 Reserve Ranch No. 2 Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, it offered inviting aromas of black cherry and blackberry, followed by layers of dark fruit, spice, and refined tannins.

The highlight of the tasting was the iconic 2022 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, composed of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot. Elegant, complex, and impeccably balanced, it demonstrated why this wine has been considered one of Napa Valley’s benchmark Cabernets for generations.

To conclude the experience, we enjoyed the delightful 2015 Napa Valley Port, served in elegant teacups as a tribute to Fernande de Latour—a charming tradition that provided the perfect ending to an unforgettable afternoon.

Before leaving, we selected two bottles of the exceptional Cabernet Franc and one bottle of the Port to bring back to Danville and share with our wine friends.

The new Beaulieu Vineyard Hospitality Center masterfully combines history, elegance, and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of BV or discovering it for the first time, this beautifully restored destination deserves a place on every wine lover’s Napa Valley itinerary.

We wholeheartedly recommend adding Beaulieu Vineyard to your bucket list. We believe you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for one of Napa Valley’s true icons.

To learn more or make a reservation, visit www.bvwines.com.

Grgich Vina Winery: A Croatian Gem on the Adriatic Coast

By Lee Porteous

My good friend Mike McColgan of Blackhawk, California, writes a widely enjoyed weekly review highlighting exceptional wineries in Napa and Sonoma—home to some of the world’s premier wine producers.

This week’s article takes us beyond California wine country to the stunning Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, where my wife Mary and I recently experienced one of the most memorable vacations of our lives: a yacht and bike tour along the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.

One of the highlights of our journey was visiting Grgich Vina Winery, a remarkable winery perched on a hillside above the small town of Trstenik on the Pelješac Peninsula, about 45 minutes south of Dubrovnik. From this spectacular setting, the winery overlooks the azure waters of the Adriatic—famous for their crystal-clear, calm, and inviting beauty.

Grgich Vina produces approximately 60,000 bottles annually, focusing on two signature varietals. Their white wine, Grgich Vina Pošip, is crafted from grapes sourced from the nearby island of Korčula. Their red wine, Grgich Vina Plavic Mali, comes from 6,600 vines planted on the steep hillsides above the winery.

We were fortunate to enjoy a personalized tour of the winery, followed by a tasting of both wines paired with delicious local cheeses and prosciutto. The setting was unforgettable—the serene blue waters below and the lush green hills above created a truly magical atmosphere.

For wine lovers familiar with Mike Grgich and Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford, California, this visit carried even deeper significance.

Miljenko “Mike” Grgich was born in Croatia in 1923 and grew up in a family of eleven children on a farm not far from the present-day location of Grgich Vina Winery. From an early age, he developed a deep connection to the land, working hard tending sheep, caring for vines, and participating in the annual grape harvest. He later pursued formal education at the prestigious University of Zagreb.

The turmoil of World War II and the political and economic instability that followed led Mike to seek a new life abroad. His journey eventually took him through Italy, Germany, and Canada before he finally arrived in Napa Valley, California.

Mike’s early winemaking career included positions at Beaulieu Vineyard and Christian Brothers Winery. His legendary reputation was cemented when he crafted the Chardonnay for Château Montelena, which won the famed 1976 Judgment of Paris—a landmark event that forever changed the global perception of California wines.

Later, Mike partnered with Austin Hills of Hills Bros. Coffee to establish Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford. The winery quickly became one of Napa Valley’s most respected names, and as they say, the rest is history.

Mike Grgich passed away on December 13, 2023, at the age of 100. He is survived by his daughter, Violet Grgich, president of Grgich Hills Estate, who continues his extraordinary legacy.

We feel incredibly fortunate to have visited Grgich Vina Winery in Croatia and to have experienced first hand the roots of Mike Grgich’s remarkable story. It was a journey filled with beauty, history, and exceptional wine.

For anyone seeking a magical and unforgettable travel experience, I highly recommend visiting the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia—and making time for a stop at Grgich Vina Winery.

It is a place where wine, history, and breathtaking scenery come together in unforgettable fashion.

Continuum Estate: A Mondavi Legacy Reimagined on Pritchard Hill

Perched high above Napa Valley on the storied slopes of Pritchard Hill, Continuum Estate stands as a testament to the Mondavi family’s enduring pursuit of excellence. The hill itself carries a rich history—named for Charles Pritchard, a New York native who settled the rugged terrain in the 1860s and became one of the region’s earliest non‑native pioneers. 

Today, this elevated landscape is home to one of Napa’s most revered winegrowing sites. Founded in 2005 by Tim and Marcia Mondavi, Continuum represents the next chapter of a winemaking lineage that spans more than a century and four generations. Their vision is clear: to craft wines that honor their heritage while expressing the singular character of this extraordinary vineyard.

From the moment you arrive, the estate feels almost celestial. Sweeping vistas stretch across Napa Valley, with the distant shimmer of the San Francisco Bay completing the panorama. The vineyard’s steep slopes, volcanic soils, and meticulous farming practices form the foundation of Continuum’s distinctive style. Hand‑harvested fruit and gravity‑flow winemaking further preserve the purity and elegance of each varietal—primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

Our host, Lyndsey, welcomed us with warmth and deep expertise. After a thoughtful tour of the property, we settled into the newly constructed Estate House, a serene, light‑filled space overlooking immaculate vineyard rows. It was the perfect setting to experience the wines that define Continuum’s identity.

The tasting began with the 2023 Sentium, a vibrant blend of 99% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Semillon. Crisp, refreshing, and beautifully textured, it set an elegant tone for what followed. Next came the 2023 Novicium, a youthful yet refined expression composed of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec. Its balance and depth hinted at the promise of future greatness.

The pinnacle of the experience was the 2023 Continuum, crafted in celebration of Tim Mondavi’s 50th vintage. This masterful blend—46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot—captured the essence of Pritchard Hill with remarkable grace and complexity. Each wine was paired with thoughtful accompaniments: Toma cheddar, Midnight Moon goat’s milk cheese, Marcona almonds, Castelvetrano olives, and a fresh French baguette from Model Bakery.

Among the lineup, the 2023 50th Anniversary Continuum and the 2023 Sentium stood out as personal favorites. We brought a bottle of each back to Danville, eager to share them with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Continuum Estate is more than a winery—it is the embodiment of a family’s legacy, passion, and unwavering commitment to world‑class winemaking. For anyone exploring Napa Valley, it is unquestionably a must‑visit destination and a profound reminder of what can be achieved when heritage and terroir converge.

To learn more or schedule a visit, explore:

https://www.continuumestate.com/contact/

Glennhawk Vineyards: Danville, California

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Glennhawk Vineyards, the only licensed winery in Danville, California — truly a hidden gem nestled in the scenic foothills beneath majestic Mt. Diablo.

Established in 2004, Glennhawk Vineyards is owned by Linda and Glenn Novotny, whose remarkable journey from Nebraska to California wine country is a testament to the idea that dreams really can come true. What began as a passion project has blossomed into a beautiful “slice of heaven” where exceptional wines, stunning surroundings, and genuine hospitality come together.

From the moment you arrive, it is clear that Glenn and Linda pour their hearts into every aspect of the vineyard and winery. Their enthusiasm for crafting world-class wines is contagious, and their dedication to excellence is reflected in every bottle. Using organic and biodynamic farming practices, they carefully cultivate premium grapes while honoring the land and environment.

The winery’s name itself holds special meaning — combining Glenn’s first name with Hawk, Linda’s maiden name — creating the perfect symbol of their shared vision and partnership.

Their impressive red blends showcase a rich combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Zinfandel, resulting in wines that are elegant, balanced, and full of character. We thoroughly enjoyed the tasting experience and, not surprisingly, left with several bottles to enjoy at home.

Glennhawk’s wines are crafted under the expertise of winemaker Kevin Vecchiarelli, whose 25 years of experience includes work at some of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries. His talent and artistry are evident throughout the portfolio.

For wine lovers seeking a unique and intimate tasting experience close to home, Glennhawk Vineyards is truly a special discovery in the East Bay.

For more information, wine tastings, or to join their wine club, visit www.glennhawkvineyards.com

Clos Pegase Winery : Born Again Under New Ownership

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Clos Pegase Winery, one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive wineries where art, architecture, and exceptional wine beautifully come together.

The winery’s name is rooted in two classical references: Clos, the French term for an enclosed vineyard, and Pegase, the French spelling of Pegasus, the mythical winged horse symbolizing the connection between wine and the arts.

Located in the heart of Calistoga, the estate was founded in 1983 by Jan Shrem and Mitsuko Shrem, whose shared passion for fine wine and art inspired the creation of this remarkable property. The estate was designed by legendary architect Michael Graves and built to showcase the Shrems’ extensive art collection, including works by Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso.

Beyond the tasting rooms, the property features underground caves for barrel aging along with a beautiful Heritage Garden adorned with classical sculptures, making the winery feel as much like a cultural destination as a wine estate.

After operating the winery for decades, Jan Shrem sold the property to  Vintage Wine Estates in 2013. Following the company’s bankruptcy in 2024, the iconic estate was purchased by Jay Adair, billionaire CEO of  Copart, and his wife Tammi.

Following an extensive renovation and a year-long closure, Clos Pegase has truly been “born again” and has recently reopened with renewed elegance and energy.

Our knowledgeable hosts for the afternoon were Russell and Rae — appropriately nicknamed “Ray of Sunshine.” We enjoyed our tasting in the beautifully refreshed main tasting room featuring elegant furnishings, striking artwork, and a welcoming fireplace that warmed both the room and the spirit.

We began with the 2021 Blanc de Noir Sparkling Wine, perfectly chilled and wonderfully refreshing. From there, we sampled the 2021 Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Pinot Noir Dijon Clone 777, and the 2021 Pinot Noir from Mitsuko’s Vineyard. We enjoyed the Cab Franc and the 2021 Pinot so much that we brought a bottle of each home to Danville to share with wine friends.

We concluded our tasting with the silky smooth 2023 Hommage Cabernet Sauvignon — a memorable finish to an outstanding experience. These wines were crafted by winemaker Robin Akhurst, who has been with the winery since 2016.

In conclusion, Clos Pegase Winery is truly a “must-do” destination to add to your Napa Valley wine bucket list — whether you appreciate world-class wines, inspiring architecture, or the seamless blending of art and hospitality.

To make a reservation, visit  www.Clospegase.com

Archer Hotel Napa

Recently, we had the pleasure of staying at the beautifully appointed Archer Hotel Napa, a sophisticated boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Napa. Opened in 2017, the hotel features 183 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, many offering private balconies or cozy fireplaces that add warmth and charm to the experience. The hotel is also pet-friendly, offers ADA-accessible accommodations, and provides valet parking for added convenience.

One of the hotel’s most unforgettable highlights is the spectacular Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar. With sweeping views of Napa Valley, it is the perfect setting for morning coffee, leisurely brunch, casual bites, or sunset cocktails. We especially enjoyed the lively energy of guests relaxing and celebrating in such a beautiful atmosphere. After a day of wine tasting, it truly feels like the perfect place to unwind.

Step outside the hotel and you are immediately surrounded by Napa’s vibrant collection of restaurants, tasting rooms, boutiques, and nightlife — all within easy walking distance. The entire downtown atmosphere feels welcoming, energetic, and wonderfully restorative to the soul.

Most impressive of all, however, was the exceptional hospitality. From the moment you arrive, the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel genuinely valued and cared for. Their warmth and attention to detail elevate the entire experience.

Archer Hotel Napa is truly a “must experience” destination for any Napa Valley getaway. The only downside is having to leave — although you quickly realize you will absolutely be returning.

For more information or reservations, visit Archer Hotel Napa

Robert Mondavi Winery Renovation

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting the long-awaited reopening of Robert Mondavi Winery following its remarkable multi-million-dollar transformation.

Founded in 1966, the winery has long been a cornerstone of Napa Valley winemaking. This three-year project by Constellation Brands was far more than a renovation—it was a complete reimagining of the estate. While preserving its iconic archway and bell tower, the property now features elegant vineyard-view terraces, a beautifully curated botanical garden in place of the former lawn, and an entirely new hospitality wing offering elevated tasting and culinary experiences. Guests can also enjoy guided cellar tours and vineyard walks, with experiences beginning at $60.

Behind the scenes, the winery has embraced innovation with state-of-the-art production facilities, dedicated spaces showcasing the renowned To Kalon Vineyard, and meaningful sustainability efforts—including water recycling, rainwater capture, energy efficiency upgrades, and organic certification achieved in 2023.

In short, Robert Mondavi Winery has evolved into a true luxury destination.

During our visit, we enjoyed a curated tasting in the new hospitality wing overlooking the famed To Kalon Vineyard. Our knowledgeable host, Mark, guided us through a memorable lineup, beginning with a crisp and refreshing 2022 Fumé Blanc from the Oakville District. We then sampled a 2022 Merlot from Oak Knoll District, followed by a 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stags Leap District and another 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville—each one exceptional.

The highlight of the experience was tasting the 60th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon alongside winemaker Kurtis Ogasawara. It was such a special moment that we brought a few signed bottles back to Danville to share with fellow wine enthusiasts.

In conclusion, this newly reimagined estate in Napa Valley is truly a “must-do” for any wine lover’s bucket list.

To reserve your experience, visit RobertMondaviWinery.com.

2026 Mexico Cruise

 

Recently, our family had the pleasure of traveling to Mexico aboard the Ruby Princess on a 12-day cruise. Having experienced many cruises around the world, one of the standout features of this trip was its departure from and return to San Francisco—the beautiful “City by the Bay”—allowing us to completely avoid air travel.

To make the journey even more seamless, we arranged for a driver to take us to and from our home in Danville to the San Francisco Cruise Terminal—an easy and stress-free start and finish to the trip.

Our voyage began with a spectacular sail under the Golden Gate Bridge on a crystal-clear day. The itinerary included three ports of call: La Paz, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas.

Among the many highlights were the exceptional food, lively nightly entertainment, attentive service, and a wide range of daily activities—truly something for everyone.

We especially enjoyed the Princess Premium beverage package, which included unlimited premium wines and cocktails across the ship’s 14 bars, as well as dining upgrades to two of their finest restaurants. The Crown Grill featured outstanding steaks and seafood, while Sabatini’s delivered a first-class Italian dining experience.

We also made a point to stay active, walking three to five miles each day and taking advantage of the ship’s excellent fitness center and spa.

One of the most memorable experiences was participating in a Guinness World Record event in Cabo San Lucas during a sashimi festival. Tables stretched nearly a mile through the town, setting a new world record. It was a truly unique and “cool” experience, complete with music and local restaurants serving fresh sashimi.

The trip concluded with a festive St. Patrick’s Day celebration—an ideal ending to a sensational journey filled with smooth sailing and beautiful, warm weather.

For more information or to book a cruise, visit:

https://www.princess.com/