Historic John’s Grill: San Francisco Landmark Since 1908

Recently, we had the pleasure of dining at historic John’s Grill located in the heart of the city at San Francisco’s Union Square. John’s Grill has been open since 1908 and has been rated in the top ten restaurants in America by Esquire magazine.

Pictures of movie stars, celebrities from all walks of life, Presidents, world leaders, Industry Titans and foodies grace these famous walls.

The bar serves a variety of wine, beer and classic mixed drinks. The Perfect Manhattan’s are a treat to enjoy in this cozy atmosphere. They will warm your heart for a start to a great dining experience.

An extensive menu of lamb chops, fish, steaks and a seafood salad for 2 named after patron and famous old time health guru Jack Lalane will satisfy any foodie desires.

There is also a tribute to the movie Maltese Falcon on the second floor.  The movie starring Humphrey Bogart as detective Sam Spade was filmed in San Francisco. The Sam Spade Lamb Chops are still offered on the menu and a great recommendation.

In conclusion, John’s Grill is a ‘must do’ when you are in the ‘great city by the bay’. It’s timeless excellence and first class service since 1908 is a ‘special‘ experience in our fast paced high tech world.

> For more information and to make a reservation go to:
> https://www.johnsgrill.com/

Cultivar:Napa Winery and SF Restaurant Gem

 

Recently, we had the opportunity to visit Cultivar Winery located in the heart of Napa.

This Napa Gem is owned by Jody and Gingy Harris Gable.  Jody and his sister Gingy grew up on their family’s picturesque property.

From the web site, “the word Cultivar means a variety of a plant that has been deliberately selected for specific desirable characteristics.”

Jody also has a great restaurant in San Francisco called Cultivar that serves all of their wines.

 
We had the opportunity to dine at his restaurant in the great ‘city by the bay’. We enjoyed great service and a variety of ‘perfectly prepared’  dishes in a warm and cozy atmosphere buzzing with excitement from many happy patrons.

At the winery, Hospitality Manager Deborah Evans shared her vast wine knowledge and led our wine tasting with Jody and our good friends from Marin Pete and Louise Petri.  It was a joy to experience Winemaker Julien Fayard’s wide array of ‘sensational‘ creations.  We especially enjoyed the estate blend Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet.  

All of these great wines can be tasted at his great restaurant in the Marina District in the ‘great city by the bay’.

To make reservations at the restaurant go to 

www.cultivarsf.com

Ken’s Table- Wine Appreciators Luncheon

Recently wine appreciators Tony Giovanzana, Mike L. McColgan, David Behring and Jeff Behring enjoyed a special luncheon in the Blackhawk Lakeside French Room which was a favorite place to dine for Blackhawk founder Ken Behring.

The wine appreciators enjoyed a four-course wine pairing with fabulous food prepared by Chef Miguel and professionally served by Jessica and Ono. 

Tony Giovanzana organized the wine appreciators to bring some great wines from Spain and Portugal. This was the second Ken’s Table-Wine Appreciators luncheon. 

We began with an interesting 2017 white wine from Spain called El Zarzal. It was an elegant and refreshing blend to prepare our palates for this special luncheon.  In addition, these wines we tasted are available for purchase at Draeger’s in Blackhawk. 

The first course was a White Bean Fabada with Pork Belly Olive Crostini. It was paired with a 1996 Vega Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero and a 2016 40th Anniversary Keenan Syrah.

Course 2 was Chorizo and Mozzarella Flatbread with Green Olives, Roasted Red Peppers and Cilantro. We enjoyed this with a 2006 Muga Prada Enea Gran Reserva Rioja and a 2009 Muga Prada Enea Gran Reserva Rioja. 

Course 3 was Grilled Lamb Chops with Hint of Rosemary and Goat Cheese Sauce. It was paired with Portugal varietals 2014 Luis Duarte Rubrica and 2015 Prats Symington Chryseia. 

Course 4 was Braised Oxtail, Red Wine Reduction and Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes. It was paired with a 2015 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape and a 2018 Rene Ristaing Cote-Rotie Ampodium. 

Ken’s spirit was definitely felt as many stories of his interesting life were shared by his sons David and Jeff. 

We concluded this luncheon with Chef Miguel’s sensational Grand Marnier Soufflé.

We look forward to planning another Ken’s Table-Wine Appreciators Luncheon in 2022.

Meritage Napa Valley Resort and Spa

 

Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at the magnificent Meritage Napa Valley Resort and Spa. In addition to this Napa Gem, the Meritage collection offers a laid-back luxury experience in La Jolla, Kauai and Huntington Beach. Napa’s Tuscan designed resort offers world class service, luxury accommodations, cave spa treatments, wedding chapel and business meeting rooms all close to famous Napa wineries, golf courses and restaurants.

Upon arrival, you are greeted with a glass of champagne and a complimentary bottle of wine from the on-site Trinitas tasting room in your room.   We had the pleasure of also enjoying a great dining experience at their signature restaurant Olive and Hay.  This restaurant offers great service and selection of wine, cocktails and beer to enjoy with a fabulous menu of ‘picture perfect’ food.  We especially enjoyed the meat balls, veal, halibut and Italian donuts with chocolate sauce for dessert.

Food is also served at the casual Crush Lounge that has bowling alleys to challenge you and your friends.

In conclusion, Napa Meritage Resort and Spa is a ‘must do’ Napa experience. It is a refreshing place to relax from the rigors of life and enjoy the many Napa wineries. It is only 45 minutes from Danville and we highly recommend staying at this magnificent resort and world class spa.  We look forward to returning soon.

For more information and to make a reservation go to:

https://www.meritagecollection.com/meritage-resort

 

Ken Behring Wine Appreciators Luncheon

Recently a wine appreciation luncheon was held at Blackhawk founder Ken Behring’s favorite lunch and dinner table in the Lakeside dining room. Special thanks to Chef Miguel, Tony Giovanzana, Jessica and Ono for pairing some great food with some fantastic wines. Wine Appreciators Jeff Behring, Mike L. McColgan, David Behring and Tony Giovanzana enjoyed this sensational 2 hour 4 course luncheon.

The first entry was Day Boat Scallop with Lemon Risotto paired with a 2017 Joseph Drouhin Puligny Montrachet and a 2017 Grgich Hills Chardonnay that was spectacular. Course two was Grilled Rainbow Trout with Bacon Green Beans and Farro. It was perfectly paired with a 2016 Sea Smoke Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir Ten and a 2014 Domaine des Beaumont Morley St Denis Les Millandes. The next course was Orecchiette Ragu Alla Bolognese with Shaved Pecorino. It was paired with 2016 Gianni Brunelli Amor Constante IGT and a 2012 IL Poggione Brunello di Montalcino that was presented picture perfect. The final course was Sliced New York, Pan Seared Onions and Mushrooms Truffle Potato Gratin. It was paired with a 2015 Chateau Leoville Barton St. Julien and a 2016 Bulgeroni Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. This was a fitting ending to a very special day.

It was also a clear sunny day sitting at Ken’s favorite table overlooking the Signature 18th Lakeside hole. It was very interesting to listen to David Behring talk about Ken’s great vision to create this golf hole exactly how it is today when they walked around this property in the 70’s. Ken’s clear vision of the future was the key to his great success in his busy life. The luncheon was so much fun that we are planning another one featuring wines from Spain, Chile and Portugal.

Wheeler Farms Winery: Napa Excellence Since 1871

Recently, we were recommended to visit Wheeler Farms by James from Theorum Winery on Diamond Peak. We were not disappointed.

Wheeler Farms has a rich history that started in 1871 by Charles Wheeler.  In 2014, Bart and Daphne Araujo led a group that purchased this historic property and continued the tradition of making world class wines. The property includes beautiful gardens, a fruit tree orchard, olive trees, edible gardens, chickens and bees. The winery on the property includes the most advanced technology for winemaking for Wheeler as well as other wine brands.

Our host today was Patrick whose passion and knowledge of wine made for a very special wine tasting experience.  We enjoyed a great pairing of food that was paired perfectly with renown winemaker Nigel Kinsman’s heavenly creations. 

We began with the 2019 J.H Wheeler Cabernet Franc Rose that was crisp, refreshing and perfectly paired with a Salmon and Ocean Trout Rillette, served on house made crackers

Next, was the JH Wheeler 2020’Sauvignon Blanc. It had fresh aromas of lemon, lime and apricot and was paired with shrimp salad with cucumber, nectarine, pickled red onion and tarragon.

We then enjoyed the 2018 JH Wheeler Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a blend of 90%Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. It was paired with crispy duck confit with flageolets and huckleberry jus.

Finally, we tasted the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon from the famed Beckstoffer George’s III Vineyard.  The wine was ‘sensational‘ and perfectly paired with prime beef sirloin with roasted garlic pomme purée and caramelized onion.

In conclusion, we would highly recommend you add this winery to your ‘must do’ Napa Valley bucket list. The tasting room is stunning and the ambience brings a wonderful relaxed feeling.  We look forward to returning soon.

For more information and to make a reservation, go to:

https://www.wheelerfarmswine.com/

Ritz Carleton San Francisco : Jean-Charles Boisset (JCB) Tasting Lounge

Recently, we enjoyed an elegant wine tasting at renown wine owner Jean-Charles Boisset’s new San Francisco tasting lounge at the iconic Ritz Carleton Hotel in San Francisco.

 

We know JC as we are members of his Raymond Vineyards located in Napa. His flamboyant personality is reflected in this newly opened and opulent decorated tasting lounge.

 

Our host today was Kelly.  Her vibrant personality and impressive wine knowledge captured the beauty of all these great wines.

 

We began with a Surrealist Brut Rose that was perfectly chilled and served from the ‘Passion Collection’ of JCB and Baccarat designed elegant stemware.

 

These unique wine glasses can also be purchased and would make a very ‘special gift’ to any ‘lover’ of fine wine.

 

We then had the 2016 number 3 Pinot Noir from Russian River and JC’s Burgundy grapes. This unique blend was also served at JC’s wedding to Gina Gallo. Gina is from another powerful wine family, Gallo Wine.  

 

We then enjoyed the Number 1 and 10 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley that were big, bold beautiful bottles of carefully crafted wine.

 

To complete this ‘exceptional’ wine experience, we tasted the 2016 Surrealist Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a perfect 80/20 blend of Cabernet and Petite Verdot grapes.

 

This wine also received a ‘100’ point rating from renown wine critic Jeb Dunnuck and was a ‘great ending’ to a fabulous wine experience in the ‘city by the bay’.

 

After our tasting, we enjoyed a fantastic dinner at the Pallete Tea House located in the center of Ghirardelli Square.

 

This modern decorated San Francisco restaurant features a variety of dim sum specialities.

 

We especially enjoyed the Honey Walnut Prawns, Fried Noodles and Chicken Wings. It is a ‘must do’ foodie experience and we look forward to returning soon.

Reservations are recommended and seating is available inside or outside.

 

For more information and to make a reservation at the JCB tasting lounge go to:

https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/san-francisco/dining/the-jcb-tasting-lounge

 

 

Pebble Beach: Tiger Woods Design Peter Hay Short Course

Recently, we had the pleasure of playing the redesigned Peter Hay short course at Pebble Beach. “The Hay” is a ‘must do’ experience.

Professional golfer Peter Hay’s vision of a fun short course for families, kids and golfers of all skills has become reality with the redesign of this course by Tiger Woods. 

It is an affordable way to experience Pebble Beach complete with a copy hole of famous number 7.   

Green fees are only $65 with kids under 12 playing for free and $5 for youth on course members. There is also a putting course that is no charge for everyone. It is also 50% off to replay it.

After you are done, lunch at the famous 19th hole “Tap Room”featuring Kobe burgers the coconut cake is highly recommended. 

For the avid golfer, you can complete this special golfing experience by playing nearby Pacific Grove known as “The Poor Man's Pebble Beach“ with many fabulous ocean view holes for $45.

For more information and to make a tee time go to:

https://www.pebblebeach.com/golf/the-hay/

Torrey Pines 2021: 121st US Open

Torrey Pines is a special place for our family. In 2008, we were the guests of the Golf Channel to the US Open Championship as a result of MJ winning the Father’s Day Essay Contest. Tiger Woods dramatic win in a playoff against Rocco Mediate is arguably one of his best victories. He played virtually on one leg as a result of a painful knee injury.  MJ's essay was selected from 25,000 entries. He also won merchandise including a set of custom-made Taylor Made golf clubs and pro bag with his name on it.  His win put us on national television on Father’s Day. It is an eternal memory in our rich memory bank.

As a Hall-of-Famer golfer, MJ was invited by the USGA to attend the 2021 US Open Championship this year.  Torrey Pines is a slice of heaven with 2 great courses flanking the great blue Pacific.

We stayed at the nearby Hilton Torrey Pines. It is a fantastic facility with stellar service, multiple restaurants, pool, spa and balcony rooms with heavenly views of the manicured golf course and hang gliders soaring over the majestic cliffs and ‘deep blue’ Pacific Ocean.

This year was also very special as the golfers enjoyed perfect weather and challenging conditions with the golf course playing 7800 yards, lightning-fast greens and a penal rough for wayward golf shots.

It was a battle to the end with Jon Rahm winning by one stroke and being crowned the 2021 US Open Champion with a score of minus 6. It was only fitting after being disqualified the week before as a result of testing positive for Covid.  He also proposed to his wife on the 18th hole last year.

Here is MJ's winning essay. It had to be 200 words or less. The words are ‘inspiring’ for any golfer or any person.   Enjoy

Golf Channel Winning Father’s Day Essay 2008 US Open Torrey Pines

By Michael (MJ) McColgan

I have been playing golf since I was 5 years old.

Having been born with a walking disability, my Dad taught me to focus on my ability and not my disability.

As a result, I have won 7 straight Northern California Special Olympics State Championships, 3 National Championships, and been inducted into 2 Hall of Fames—2004 San Francisco Tri Valley and 2006 Michigan having been born there.

My Dad taught me that golf, like life, is a hard game but with a positive attitude, proper instruction and a will to win, anything can and will happen. In a round of golf, never-never give up.

He also told me to enjoy the beauty and many friends I will make in this game. He often told me that one could go out as a single player and meet three strangers on the first tee and by the end of the round be friends for life.

Finally, he taught me to never get nervous on the first tee. Like life, getting off to a good start is very important.

Thanks Dad!

 

Theorem: Diamond Mountain Gem

Recently, we had the pleasure to visit Theorem Vineyards on the Northern Slope of Diamond Mountain.

Theorem Vineyards officially opened its doors on September 15, 2018. Tastings and tours began featuring their fine wines and extraordinary views.  Tastings are limited to a few people at a time and are by appointment only.

Owners of the property- The Itkins — he a trial lawyer and she a geophysicist/chemical engineer — first came to the Napa Valley in 2008. Theorem boasts 60 heavenly hillside acres on Diamond Mountain that produce world class wine with the motto “in truth there is wine.”

 

Our host James Cerda, VP of Sales and Marketing, welcomed us with chilled glasses of Sauvignon Blanc. We enjoyed tasting these wines outside the guest house with an outstanding view of Mt. St. Helena and the Vaca Mountains. The rebuilding of a 19^th century historic dairy barn on the property is currently the newest construction project which will provide yet another tasting area for visiting wine lovers.

 

We tasted the estate cabernet, called Voir Dire, which is a legal term originally referring to the oath taken by jurors “to speak the truth.”.  We also tasted the 2019 Moon Mountain Chardonnay, 2018 Moon Mountain District Cabernet, 2018 Hawks Prey Cabernet,   These wines were paired perfectly with Cabot Clothbound Cheddar Cheese from Vermont, Mount Tam Cheese from Petaluma, and Chiraboga Blue Cheese from Bavaria, Germany.

 

We enjoyed all of the wines and took a bottle of each home with us. We also booked a reservation to attend one of their private luncheons prepared by Chef Josh Mitchell. 

 

This winery is a ‘must do’ and is a great addition to the Napa wine scene. 

 

For more information and to make a reservation go to: 

 

https://www.theoremvineyards.com/

 

Gandona Estate: A Must Do Napa Experience

 

Manuel Pires has farming in his blood and is living his “Dream”. A Connecticut native, originally born in Douro Valley, Portugal, he made his fortune in guard tour and key management systems. The story of Gandona is rooted in transforming the land into something extraordinary.  The site is located on prestigious Pritchard Hill with 120 acres and sensational views of Lake Hennessy and the Napa Valley.  The winery was completed in 2010 and wines are barrel-aged in the caves located within Pritchard Hill’s rocky interior. Renowned winemaker Phillipe Melka crafts the Gandona wines. Wine neighbors include cult wines Colgin and Chappellet..

The name Gandona was Manuel’s grandfather’s nickname as known by villagers. He did many acts of “kindness” for the locals in his hometown. In English the word gandona translates to ‘humble man’.

Our hosts were Estate Director Peter Greerty and owner Manuel Pires. We began with a stroll around this heavenly property enjoying a glass of Rose Cabernet Franc. We then moved to the elegant tasting room with sensational views of Lake Hennessy.  Part of the charm of the tasting room in the winery is the black and white stone flooring patterned in a wave. It is a pattern that was inspired from 1849 in Lisbon’s Rossio Square. This wave pattern atlternates black and white waves composed of small stones cut and laid by hand by a team of craftsmen from Portugal.

We tasted the 2017 Chardonnay Encosta, 2018 Meia (95%Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon), 2016 Encosta (76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petite Verdot) and 2016 and 2012 Gandona (100% Cabernet Sauvignon). Each of these wines were crafted to the high winemaking standards of Phillipe Melka.  We completed the tasting with the 2013 Gandona Fraga Do Arco Port. It had the aromatics of black currants, raspberries and hints of herbs and licorice. We enjoyed all of them and took a bottle of each home with us

The wines reflect the beauty of this sensational piece of property. It is a ‘must do’ to add to your Napa Wine Experiences.

 For more information and to make a reservation go to:

www.Gandona.com

 

Sensational Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa

 

We recently had the pleasure to travel to Sonoma and stay at the fabulous Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa.  From our home in Danville, it is an easy 1-hour picturesque drive.

Upon arrival at the Fairmont Sonoma, guests are welcomed with a glass of perfectly chilled Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut from their champagne cart that is proudly displayed out front. It is a great way to begin a magical stay at this elegant Sonoma oasis. The iconic Hotel is within a 10-minute drive of Sonoma Plaza and Mission San Francisco Solano, 3.5 miles from Sonoma Train Town Railroad and 11.1 miles from Domaine Carneros.  The world seems far away which is the whole idea of this laidback yet elegant resort.

 

The resort’s 226 rooms are nestled in the trees and have private outdoor areas that provide for the ultimate in relaxation. The décor is Spanish Mission inspired style with dark wood, stone floors and warming fireplaces scattered around the property and in the rooms. The grounds include a pool with cabanas and a bar. The full-service spa has several different treatment selections including massages, facials and its own source of thermal mineral water.

 

Complimentary Wine tasting is featured at 4:30 in the lobby from various local wineries each day.  Food and drink feature prominently at the Restaurant Sante where we experienced an upscale dinner prepared for us by Chef Jared Reeves. Scallops, Blackened Cod and a wonderful dessert selection provided for a perfect end to our day.

 

The next day we played the Sonoma Golf Club winding through this sensational property. It was in pristine condition and had a variety of tees to challenge all golfing skills. The course was designed in 1928 by Sam Whiting, architect of San Francisco's prestigious Olympic Club Lake Course.  The Sonoma Golf Club was the former home of the PGA Champions Tour Charles Schwab Cup Championship. The golf experience is set on 177 acres of rolling terrain highlighted by massive oaks, lakes and sweeping vistas, and neighboring vineyards.  Golf at Sonoma Golf Club is reserved exclusively for Sonoma Golf Club Members and guests of the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa.

 

For dinner, we enjoyed great food and superior service at the highly acclaimed Girl and the Fig in downtown Sonoma. We were not disappointed and enjoyed watching many ‘happy’ people strolling around the Sonoma square without masks.

 

In conclusion, the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is a great place to enjoy a long weekend and break from the stress and rigors of daily life.  The service staff, accommodations, world class spa and restaurants are all first class. The staff is very friendly and makes guests feel very special.

 

It is definitely a ‘must do’ to add to your bucket list. The best part is that it is a short drive from our community in Danville.

 

For more information and to make reservations go to:

https://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/

 

Round Pond Estate: Rutherford Gem

 

Recently we had the pleasure of visiting Round Pond Estate located in Rutherford.

In the early 1980's, Bob and Jan MacDonald bought this rich, and fertile piece of 460 acres overlooking the Mayacamas mountains. Today brother and sister Ryan and Miles MacDonnell continue the dream of their parents, making world class wines.

We were escorted to the second story of the winery to the tasting lounge which is a covered terrace with panoramic views of the vineyards.  Our host was Victoria, who was born and raised in this beautiful part of the world, and generous with her wealth of wine knowledge.

Estate Chef Ryan Searl created an elaborate gourmet food board to enjoy with these fine wines. We especially enjoyed the ‘barely buzzed’ cheese that went well with the wines.

We started the tasting with the 2019 Proprietary White Wine that was a perfect blend of 73% Semillion and 27% Viognier. Next was the 2018 Super Proprietary Tuscan Blend with 54% Sangiovese and 46% Cabernet that was a medium body wine with an eloquent expresso finish. Finally, we tasted the 2017 Bovet Reserve 100% Cabernet with dark fruit and supple firm tannins recently rated at 97 points.

All of the wines were fantastic but we especially liked the Proprietary White and Super Tuscan and took a couple bottles of each back home with us.

Finally, Round Pond has their own Olive Mill where they freshly press the olives to produce wonderful aromatics and fresh flavors.  We took home a bottle of their Meyer Lemon Olive Oil made from their 2400 Olive trees gracing this spectacular piece of wine heaven

This winery is first class and a ‘must do’ to add to your Napa wine bucket list.

For more information and to make a reservation go to:

https://www.roundpond.com/

 

Las Vegas: Bellagio Hotel and Exclusive Shadow Creek Golf Course

Recently, we had the pleasure of playing the exclusive

                 “Shadow Creek Golf Course “ 

in the ‘city that never sleeps’, Las Vegas, and staying at the famous Bellagio Hotel. 

Southwest Airlines offers a great selection of 1.5 hour direct flights from the Oakland airport.

The famous Bellagio Hotel is a 5 minute drive from the airport. Bellagio means ‘elegant relaxation’ and is named after a town in Lake Como, Italy. It is known for its 8-acre lake with multi-colored waterfalls that dance to perfectly choreographed music.

This massive hotel is a Las Vegas favorite living up to its billing of ‘elegant relaxation’ with  stately appointed rooms, multiple restaurants, pools, spa, entertainment and a first-class service staff.

The ‘dancing waterfalls’ are very soothing to your soul and attract many people to enjoy the 24 hour show on the Las Vegas strip.

After checking in, we enjoyed a great dinner at Gordon Ramsey’s English Pub at nearby Caesars Palace. This was our second Ramsey experience as we also ate at his Black Cat restaurant in London. We were not disappointed and enjoyed great service and food in a casual atmosphere at his pub.

On another night, we enjoyed great service and a fabulous Italian dinner with a very good international and domestic wine list at famous Rao’s also located at Caesars Palace. The meatballs and lemon chicken are not to be missed. The cannoli for dessert was one of the best we have experienced!

We had the pleasure of playing the Tom Fazio designed 7500 yard masterpiece Shadow Creek Golf Course. Originally built by casino owner Steve Wynn, it has hosted many famous celebrities, Presidents and golfers on its hallowed grounds.  

Recently, Phil Mickelson beat Tiger Woods in a 4-hole sudden death $10 million match.  In 2020, long hitting Jason Kokrak won his first PGA tour event in a star studded field CJ cup that was moved to Las Vegas due to Covid travel issues.

Your exclusive golf experience begins when a Limo picks you up at your hotel and takes you to the course. The 7500 yard golf wonderland has multiple tees to challenge any golfing skill level.

Long time General Manager, Monte Montgomery, assigned us to a famous caddy named Bogey, who navigated us around this meticulously manicured slice of golf heaven.

Every hole can be considered a signature hole. Bogey’s stories of many famous people playing here were also interesting and entertaining.

When we asked him who was his favorite person to caddy for, he said very politely, “aside from Linda and Mike today, I really enjoyed Mark Wahlberg, Justin Timberlake and President Obama. “

You can play this formerly very private course if you stay at one of the MGM resorts. MGM purchased this heavenly property a few years ago. It is truly a ‘must do’ bucket list experience for the avid golfer. 

For more information go to:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shadow_Creek_Golf_Course

Faust Wines: A Napa Treasure

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Faust Wines. These high-quality wines showcase what makes the Coombsville Region so special.

Faust is part of a winery/brand portfolio owned by Huneeus Vinters including Napa based Quintessa.

The Faust House is one of Napa’s newest tasting rooms that opened in 2020.There is a refurbished 1870s Victorian Mansion and outdoor shaded patio areas overlooking terraced vineyards where we enjoyed these great wines.

The mansion’s lavish interiors are meant to recall its namesake Dr. Faustus, the literary character who made a pact with the devil.

Nate, assistant guest services manager showed us the lower- level speakeasy. Supposedly, it is haunted by 3 ghosts-August, Joanna and Mary.  As the story goes, August liked whiskey and as a result they keep a bottle of Jameson always open for him.

Our knowledgeable and energetic host today was Ty. He did a great job telling us about the wine and the snack pairing that went with the wine.

We enjoyed a sensational sun splashed day on the patio overlooking Napa. We began with a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, followed by the 2016 ‘The Hour’ a unique blend of Merlot and Petite Sirah.  We concluded with an elegant 2016 and 2018 ‘The Pact’ 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. We especially liked the 2016 Hourd and 2016 100 percent Cabernet. One bottle of each went home to Danville with us.

This winery is a ‘must do’ to add to your Napa wine tasting bucket list.

For more information and to make an appointment, go to: https://faustwines.com/

Sullivan Rutherford Estate: Established in 1972

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Sullivan Rutherford Estate sitting on 26 acres of beauty in the heart of Napa.  It is a boutique winery that has been making Bordeaux style wines since 1972.

James (Jim) O’Neil Sullivan founded this  winery and his vision of making world class wines continued when the winery was sold in 2018.

Now under the guidance of Juan Pablo Torres Padilla, this winery continues their ‘quest to be the best’.

Our host today was Laura.  She met us with a great smile and two glasses of Chardonnay when we arrived. Her passion and proud description of these great wines made for a very enjoyable day.

In addition to the 2018 Chardonnay, we tasted the 2016 Coeur Du Vigne, 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2015 James O’Neil Merlot and 2015 James O’Neil Cabernet Sauvignon.

We especially enjoyed the 2016 Coeur Du Vigne which was a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 2% Petite Verdot.  

The label on the  bottle is also graced with a  colorful painting by James O’Neil’s daughter. We took a couple of bottles home with us.

The peaceful, pastoral setting and perfectly manicured grounds reminded us of being in Ireland. This is a ‘must do’ Napa wine experience. 

For more information and to make an appointment go to: Sullivanwine.com