Discover Hendry Vineyard: Crafting World-Class Wines Since 1939

During our recent visit to Napa, we had the pleasure of experiencing Hendry Vineyard, a remarkable winery with an eight-decade legacy. Nestled on a breathtaking 203-acre property, boasting 114 acres of vines, this family-run establishment is a hidden gem in the Napa Valley.

We were delighted to meet George Hendry, the 86-year-young owner and winemaker. George's commitment to his craft was evident as he passionately discussed the recent harvest during his lunch break. With 13 varietals gracing this picturesque estate, George's dedication to perfection shone through.

Our gracious host, Theresa, guided us through a tasting of the vineyard's impressive selection, made exclusively from grapes grown on-site. Our journey began with a delightful Zinfandel Rosé, a perfect introduction to the "Hendry" wine experience.

We then savored the refreshing and enjoyable 2022 Albariño, followed by the exquisite 2022 Uncorked Chardonnay and the barrel-fermented 2021 Chardonnay, both of which were truly exceptional.

Continuing our tasting, we indulged in the 2020 Pinot Noir, the 2020 Primitivo, and the 2019 Block 7 and 22 Zinfandels. Among them, the Zinfandel stood out as a favorite.

You mustn't miss the 2019 "Red," an exquisite blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec that has garnered great acclaim from wine judges and received numerous high ratings.

To conclude this sensational experience, we were treated to the remarkable 2019 Cabernet Franc and the extraordinary 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, both showcasing the winemaking genius behind Hendry Vineyard.

Impressed by the quality of the wines, we purchased several bottles to bring home: four bottles of the delightful Albariño, three bottles of the exceptional Zinfandel from Block 7, three bottles of the captivating Cabernet Franc, and two bottles of the acclaimed "Red." We were fortunate enough to have George personally sign them.

After this heavenly wine tasting, we enjoyed a delectable lunch at the iconic Rutherford Grille, savoring their grilled artichokes and renowned cornbread.

Please note that these exceptional wines are exclusively available at the winery or select high-end restaurants, such as John's Grille,(famous for the Maltese Falcon Movie)near Union Square in San Francisco.

We highly recommend adding Hendry Vineyard to the top of your wine bucket list. To learn more and make an appointment, visit their website at: https://www.hendrywines.com/

Chotto Matte: Must Do Rooftop Japanese Peruvian Cuisine Arrives at Union Square

Recently, we had the pleasure of dining at Chotto Matte. This new San Francisco restaurant opened on the top of the previous Macys Men’s Store at Union Square. It offers great views from its rooftop terrace and an extensive selection of unique and delicious Japanese Peruvian dishes.

Chotto Matte translates “to wait a moment” or “hold on a second”. The concept is deeply integrated in Japanese culture where patience and thoughtfulness are highly valued virtues.

We took our time at this elegant restaurant with views of the “city by the bay” on the top of Macys on a sensational crystal-clear day.

You know it is going to be a special experience when you check into the black marble entrance before taking an elevator to the rooftop terrace.

Service is very attentive with an extensive selection of cocktails and wine. We enjoyed a variety of appetizers including calamari, sushi, and Perfect Manhattans made with Angels Envy. We also enjoyed chicken and salmon donburi bowls graced with deep fried finely ground red sweet potatoes garnished on top that made for an impressive presentation. For dessert, we shared a freshly made apple cobbler that was a heavenly ending to a fantastic dining experience. 

This restaurant is the 5th in their collection with others in London, Toronto, Saudi Arabia, Miami and more planned.

It is a great addition to San Francisco’s famous Union Square. We would highly recommend it. 

For more information and make reservations go to:

https://chotto-matte.com/

CordeValle Resort: Luxury In The Heart Of The Valley

Recently, we had the pleasure of immersing ourselves in the ultimate luxury and relaxation at the exquisite CordeValle Resort. Located just an hour's drive from Danville, tucked away in San Martin between San Jose and Monterey, this remarkable resort rests on a sprawling 1700-acre playground of beauty, surrounded by the Santa Cruz mountains.

Derived from the enchanting Spanish phrase 'el Courazon del valle,' meaning heart of the valley, CordeValle lives up to its name by stealing hearts and captivating souls from the moment you arrive. Avid golf enthusiasts will find themselves very happy on the resort's world-class golf course, ingeniously crafted by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jr. Noteworthy accolades adorn this course, including being the distinguished host of the 2016 US Women's Open, as well as the prestigious Fry's Open, and thrilling college competitions. With tee options ranging from 5385 to 7300 yards, players of all skill levels can relish in the challenge presented by this meticulously manicured course. 

As we played golf down the lush fairways and took in the breathtaking views reminiscent of the idyllic landscapes of Wyoming, we couldn't help but feel a profound sense of awe, especially considering the resort's close proximity to the bustling Silicon Valley. 

The indulgent experience doesn't end with the golf course, as CordeValle boasts elegant and spacious accommodations that cater to every need. From the luxurious Fairway Rooms to the cozy Bungalows, opulent Villa Suites, and even the grand Fairway Homes, each abode is adorned with goose down comforters, enticing fireplaces, original artwork, and panoramic vistas that unfold like scenes from a celestial dream. 

What truly sets CordeValle apart is the unparalleled warmth and attentiveness of the service staff, who go above and beyond to ensure that your stay becomes a cherished memory.  Their dedication is matched only by the exceptional amenities spanning the premises, from the refreshing outdoor pool and well-maintained tennis courts to the rejuvenating wellness center. 

You may indulge your palate in the delectable offerings of both Lions Peak Grill and One Iron Bar, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner options await. The menus boast an array of culinary delights that exceed even the most discerning of palates, perfectly complemented by an extensive selection of wine, beer, and handcrafted cocktails. 

Beyond the resort lies an enchanting adventure waiting to be discovered. The CordeValle property encompasses the celebrated Clos LaChance winery, sprawled across 85 acres of picturesque land. Guests can drive up to the winery, only 12 minutes away, indulging in wine tastings, attending summer concerts, or even partaking in a spirited game of bocce ball. We couldn't resist taking home a few bottles of the Reserve Meritage to share with our friends in Danville, a reminder of the magical moments we experienced. 

For those seeking a respite after a day on the greens, the Wellness Center has an array of revitalizing treatments. And for those who prefer the rush of a different kind of match, tennis and bocce courts await you.

In essence, CordeValle Resort stands as a beacon of excellence, offering a world-class experience that caters to every individual. It is the perfect escape from the demands and pressures of daily life, providing an enchanting sanctuary that truly has "something for everyone." We eagerly anticipate our return to this remarkable destination, where luxury, relaxation, and pure bliss intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. 

For more information and to make a reservation, please visit the official CordeValle Resort website at:

https://www.cordevalle.com/

Sams Grill: San Francisco Classic

Recently, we had the pleasure of enjoying a great meal at Sams Grill. It is a ‘must do’ San Francisco  Classic that was founded in 1867. It is also the 5th oldest restaurant in the United States.

It was founded by Michael  Bolan Moraghan a native of Ireland. Moraghan was a oysterman who raised oysters in the Southern San Francisco Bay. His Oyster beds produced over 2.5 million pounds of Oyster meat a year and have always been on Sam’s menu. 

Sam Zenovich bought the restaurant in 1922. Frank Sepur bought Sams in 1937 after Sam died. Sams moved to the current location in 1946 and was run by the Sepur family for 3 generations. In 2014 Peter Quataroli  and a group of Sams patrons bought the restaurant.

There is a variety of wine, beer and mixed drinks served by knowledgeable waiters dressed in black tuxedos. 

We especially enjoyed perfect Manhattans, oysters, sour dough bread,  baked French Onion soup and mesquite grilled Petrale. 

It is open Monday thru Friday  from 11 to 8 and closed on weekends. For more information and to make a reservation go to: 

https://samsgrill-sf.com/

Gourmet Gallop by Diablo Ballet

Written by Linda McColgan

Eat, Drink and be Merry! 

Walnut Creek has a lot of new amazing restaurants. They were showcased on Thursday 9/7 for the Annual Diablo Ballet Gourmet Gallop. What a fabulous way to try an array of restaurants with sips, tastes and bites. We had a wonderful evening strolling the streets, talking with friends and discovering wonderful restaurants. A true sense of community!

Diablo Ballet puts on this fantastic event every year during the first week of September. The Gourmet Gallop benefits Diablo Ballet and its PEEK Outreach Program (Performing Arts Education & Enrichment for Kids), which is the only arts education program of its kind offered by a professional dance company in the Bay Area.

Waterlight Plaza featured wine tasting by Fenestra Winery and wine & appetizers provided by The Garden, Steinway Piano Gallery featured wine tasting by McGrail Vineyards and a piano concert with wine glasses provided by Community Bank of the Bay. They also had a drawing for the concerts at the Garden, which is the former Scott’s. Lucky Linda won two tickets for the Prince concert on 10/27. 

Join us. Tickets are at:https://www.thegardenwc.com/public-concert-series

Restaurants that participated included:

5 Tacos and Beer, Broderick, Buon Vino, Massimo Ristorante,
Opa!, Residual Sugar, Sauced, SF Creamery Co., Skipolini’s, Silk Road, Slice House, Tacos Walnut Creek, Tomatina, Torsap
Walnut Creek Yacht

We highly recommend you look for this event next September. It is a great way to taste restaurant samples and sips as well as providing support for the Arts for our young.

Raise a glass and toast to Diablo Ballet for their relentless dedication in spreading love and joy throughout our beloved community. Cheers to great food, fantastic company, and the power of the arts!

 

20th Annual Wheelchair Foundation Golf Tournament

The 20th Annual Wheelchair Foundation Golf Tournament was recently held on the Lakeside course at Blackhawk Country Club and was another smashing success.

 

On a pleasant semi- sunny day, golfers enjoyed a full day of food, wine and fun. Starting with Bloody Mary’s, the golfers checked into this sold-out event. 

 

Games, cigar bar and food were served on many holes by the Golf Angels. Long drive contests for men and women, beer pong, margaritas, and Fuddruckers hamburgers were a few of the annual favorites. 

 

An oversold field of 148 golfers competed in the best ball event. There were many great scores with a net 51 being the winning score. 

 

After golf, Raymond Vineyards and Castello di Amorosa poured their great wines and golfers enjoyed appetizers and a bagpiper playing while bidding on an array of great silent auction items. 

 

Master of Ceremony and former tv sports announcer Mark Ibanez ran a live auction of expensive wine, tastings, sports memorabilia and golf trips at the formal dinner following golf.

 

3-time Hall-of-Famer “MJ” who was born with a walking disability also had his new book “Life of A Champion” available for sale.

 

Special thanks to all of the generous sponsors especially Bob Herzog of Farmers Insurance and Val Nunes of 

Dreisbach Enterprises who are co-chairman of this great event. 

 

David Behring President of the Wheelchair Foundation started by his father Ken 20 years ago said, “the real winners are the 1.2 million recipients who have received the gift of mobility all over the world and made my father’s dream become reality. We look forward to the 21st golf tournament in 2024.”

Burma 2

Recently, we enjoyed a great Burmese lunch at Burma 2 in Walnut Creek. We learned about this restaurant on the tv show “Check Please” and it peaked our interest.

The chef has over 20 years’ experience preparing dishes made fresh daily.  They are open daily for lunch and dinner and offer take-out and catering.  You may request light to spicy dishes and there is live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Enjoy a Drakes Pilsner lager or one of their signature cocktails like the Burmese Python or a variety of wines while your food is being prepared.

We enjoyed their Coconut Chicken Palata and Chicken Lettuce Wraps for appetizers. For the entree we tried Sesame Beef and the traditional Tea Leaf Salad. Both were fantastic and full of bright flavors.

For dessert, our server recommended Shwe Gyi. It is a Burmese coconut crème cake with ice cream. 

This is a “must do” foodie experience close to Danville in the wonderful city of Walnut Creek full of sensational shopping and a variety of dining establishments. 

For more information and to make a reservation go to:

https://www.burma2.com/

 

Life Is A Cabernet: 2019 Alexander Valley Release Day

Recently, we enjoyed the Silver Oak 2019 Alexander Valley Release Party.  Loyal Silver Oak patrons enjoyed a day of ‘fun’ at the Oakville facility in Napa.

There was a morning session for wine lovers from 10:00 to 12.:30 and an afternoon session from 2:00 to 4:30. 

In addition to the sensational wine that has been produced for over 50 years, patrons enjoyed great food, photo booths and music on this sun splashed day.  

This year the Release party featured 3 of America’s top pizza chefs. Chris Bianco, Ann Kim and Marc Vetri made a variety of their famous pizzas that brought smiles of joy while enjoying this great wine. 

“Life Is A Cabernet”

For more information and to make an appointment to visit this great winery go to:

https://silveroak.com/visit/release-day/

Hidden Gem: Santa Lucia Preserve Minutes From Famous Pebble Beach, California.

Recently, we had the pleasure to visit Santa Lucia Preserve near famous Pebble Beach, California. Our host was Riley Ramones who is the head pro at the Tom Fazio designed golf course.

This golf course is described on the web site as “a pastoral landscape ringed by mountains-a canvas unencumbered  by roads, homes, or distraction- and the result is one of the most serene and beautifully challenged 18 holes on the planet. Every tee is a postcard, every green a reward. Here bathed in the warm California sunshine is a private experience that lives up to its perennial top 100 ranking.” Memberships are available for both residents and non residents.

This private community sits on 20,000 acres 18,000 acres are protected in perpetuity by a conversation land trust. There are just 297 home sites. Besides golf,  Santa Lucia has a world class Equestrian Center, 3 dining venues, coffee house, lodging at the historic Hacienda, and a state of the art Sports Center. In addition, there is glamping and water sports at Moore’s lake, sporting courts and a swim center.  In addition to lots of fun in the sun, it is a great place for business meetings and weddings.

Our round of golf was very  special  having the entire golf course to ourselves and aided by our knowledgeable caddy and golf pro. 

After golf, we enjoyed a great lunch enjoying sensational views of this special place. 

We would highly recommend you make an appointment to tour this ‘slice’ of heaven. Having been to Augusta twice,  the drive into the  Santa Lucia Preserve rivals the ‘goose bumps’ you get when driving into Augusta on Magnolia Lane. 

For more information, go to:

https://www.santaluciapreserve.com/

Cache Creek: Golf, Gambling, Food and Fun

Recently, we had the pleasure to go back to Cache Creek. 15 years ago we were at the Grand Opening of this first class golf course.  We have also been there a few other times.

From our home in Danville, it is an easy 1.5 ride to Brooks, Ca.

It offers a perfect getaway with golf, spa great hotel, gambling, food and world class entertainment. There are over 600 luxury rooms, 24 hour gaming, over 2000 slot machines, 150 game tables, 2 high stakes rooms, 28 table poker room, and state of the art live entertainment venue.  

We checked into our neatly appointed view room and began with golf at the Yoche Dehe Golf Club. The name translates  to ‘home by the spring water’.  It is a Brad Bell design that stretches to 7300 yards with tees matched to every skill level. The green fees include range balls and new carts with GPS. The first tee is perched high above this pristine property and is a great way to start your round.

After golf, we enjoyed cocktails at the casino and dinner at Enso Sushi before going to see Smokey Robinson at their modern entertainment center with no bad seats and perfect acoustics.

William “Smokey” Robinson  was the frontman of the Motown  vocal group the Miracles. He was the chief songwriter and producer of the Miracles and well respected in the Music business.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 1987 and awarded the  Library Of Congress Gershwin prize for his contributions to popular music.

In 2022 Smokey was inducted into the Black Music and entertainment Walk Of Fame.

We have seen him before and being originally from Detroit enjoyed all of his great music. His soothing voice is still amazing entertaining fans for over 50 years.  

We plan to return soon to this 4 star Diamond Resort. 

For more information and to make reservations, go to:

https://www.cachecreek.com/

A Glass Full of Miracles

Recently, my wife Linda and I had the pleasure of attending a by invitation only event labeled ‘A Glass Full Of Miracles’ celebrating the 100th birthday and joyous life of Mike Grgich of Grgich Hills Estate at the Culinary Institute of America in beautiful St. Helena.

Close friends, dignitaries, and various members of the press tasted fantastic wines and shared memories of Mike’s fantastic life. Mike’s daughter Violet, President of Grgich Hills winery, organized this special event.

Some of the dignitaries included: Andrea Robinson, Master Sommelier 

Joel Aiken, Winemaker Beaulieu Vineyard

Tim Mondavi, Winemaker 

Mike Mondavi, Winemaker 

Bo Barrett, Winemaker Chateau Montelena and husband of Winemaker Heidi Barrett

Tor Kenward, Winemaker and Executive Berringer Vineyard

Some of the ‘Miracles In A Glass’ included: 

1966 Beaulieu Vineyard  Georges De Latour  

1967 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges De Latour

1969 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon

1969 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay

1972 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay

1973 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon  

1980 Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon  

And many others from the Grgich Hills Estate library.

In conclusion, we have enjoyed the pleasure and honor to know Mike, Violet and the Grgich family for over 30 years. We have also been to the beautiful country of Croatia twice where Mike was born and also has a winery.

This tribute to Mike was very special for us.  We should all be so ‘lucky’ to be drinking great wine when we turn 100 years old.

“Happy Birthday Mike!”

To order Mike Grgich’s autobiography go to: 

https://www.amazon.com/Glass-Full-Miracles-Miljenko-Grgich/dp/0692601201#immersive-view_1683279180628