29 Mar 2014
Spring in Sonoma Wine Country: New Arts Activities, Breweries, and Culinary Creations
SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — Spring in Sonoma County means bud break in the vineyards, new tasting rooms, and a full bloom of arts activities and exhibits.
The county's craft beer movement continues to gain momentum with the addition of new breweries. Of course, Sonoma County's creative chefs and winemakers are also in on the act, creating new flavor experiences to help make your trip a memory that will linger in the mind, and on the palate.
New events, paired with tried-and-true festivals and events make spring the perfect time to plan your trip today at www.SonomaCouty.com.
WINERIES
New Sonoma House at Patz & Hall
For 25 years, winemakers at Patz & Hall have been making acclaimed wines from just two varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. In January, the winery kicked of its 26th year in business by moving from Napa to Sonoma, where they now have a comfortable space to offer memorable tastings of their wines.
Located just north of the Eighth Street wineries, the Sonoma House at Patz & Hall is within biking distance of the Sonoma Square and the shops of downtown Sonoma. The salon is set in the middle of a vineyard and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy several unique tasting options, and striking views of the Mayacamas Mountains to the east.
In the salon, Patz & Hall offers seated, private tastings that include six Chardonnay and Pinot Noir single-vineyard-designate wines, paired with locally sourced gourmet food pairings. The salon experience is $50 per person and lasts approximately 60 minutes, and can accommodate up to 10 guests per tasting. Appointments are required and available Wednesday through Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
A less formal experience is offered at the tasting bar, where guests enjoy a seated tasting of four Patz & Hall wines. Cost is $25 per person, and no reservations are required, but suggested.
The Sonoma House at Patz & Hall
21200 Eighth Street East
Sonoma, CA
707-265-7700
info@patzhall.com
www.patzhall.com
Media Contact: Michelle Armour
415-495-1107
michelle@jam-pr.com
Iron Horse Toasts Diversity with Rainbow Cuveé
Iron Horse Vineyards has just released a new, limited edition, vintage sparkling wine called Rainbow Cuvée.
“It's meant for everyone who believes in love, justice, and equality,” said Iron Horse CEO Joy Sterling. “And, nothing says marriage quite like a gorgeous bottle of bubbles.”
The wine is vintage 2009 Blanc de Blancs — 100 percent estate Chardonnay, aged three-plus years en tirage. The dosage, or finishing element, makes it unique. Only 250 cases were produced. Rainbow Cuveé is available at the Iron Horse Tasting Room and online for $58 per bottle.
Iron Horse is best known for its sparkling wines, which have been served at the White House for five consecutive presidential administrations, beginning with the historic Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Meetings in 1985, ending the Cold War.
Iron Horse Vineyards
9786 Ross Station Road
Sebastopol, CA 95472
707-887-1507
www.ironhorsevineyards.com
Media Contact: Joy Sterling
707- 887-1507
joy@ironhorsevineyards.com
First-Ever Dinner Parties on the Highest Hilltop at Jordan Estate
Jordan Vineyard & Winery will host its first-ever dinner parties at Vista Point, the highest hilltop on Jordan Estate. The winery's first Sunset Supper scheduled for July 19 sold out within two days of an exclusive announcement to Jordan Estate Rewards members, and a second dinner has been added on Saturday, Aug. 16.
Guests will enjoy a reception at Jordan's new Vista Point pavilion, followed by a seated, multi-course meal amongst the grapevines. The meal is paired with Jordan wines and panoramic views of Alexander Valley's rolling hills and mountains during sunset.
This event is limited to 50 guests, and tickets are $200 per person and 10,000 Jordan Estate rewards points for two people, (rewards points are earned through making purchases at Jordan Winery). To book seats, visitors can click here.
More than three-quarters of the Jordan estate is dedicated to natural habitat — an oasis where craggy oak trees surround the vineyards, herons and geese swim the lakes, and rabbits and deer roam the rolling hills that define Sonoma County's southern Alexander Valley.
The property includes 110 acres of grapevines, 18 acres of olives trees, gardens, lakes, pastures and woods. Under the direction of second-generation vintner John Jordan, Jordan Vineyard & Winery has evolved into a working ranch with chickens for eggs, cattle for beef, bees for honey, and even a cutting garden for floral arrangements.
Jordan Vineyard & Winery
1474 Alexander Valley Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
www.jordanwinery.com/shop/category/Tickets
Media Contact: Lisa Mattson
707-431-5268
lmattson@jordanwinery.com
The Tasting Room on the Green: Mutt Lynch Winery, Deux Amis Winery join forces
Two of Sonoma's most notable winemakers — Brenda Lynch and Phyllis Zouzounis — showcase their unique varietals in The Tasting Room on the Green, located in Windsor.
The two women are featuring Primitivo and Charbono as well as more well-known Sonoma County varietals like Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Sauvignon Blanc
Mutt Lynch Winery, as the name would suggest, is dog-friendly. All labels have dogs on them and pooches are invited to stroll into the tasting room with their human friends in tow, to enjoy free water, treats and plenty of canine-themed wine swag. The Windsor Town Green, just steps from the tasting room, allows a perfect spot for dogs to take a stroll before or after the tasting room experience.
Deux Amis Winery, French for “two friends,” started a partnership between two friends, Phyllis Zouzounis and Jim Penpraze. Specializing in outstanding Zinfandels, the varietal that comes with the stamp of Sonoma County firmly imprinted upon it. A small amount of Petite Sirah is blended into Deux Amis Zinfandel for added depth and complexity.
The tasting room joins other winery tasting rooms already established on the Windsor Town Green, Vino Valpredo and Dom Whitney.
The Tasting Room on the Green
9050 Windsor River Road
Windsor, CA 95492
707-942-6180
www.muttlynchwinery.com
Media contact:
Kelly Keagy
707-849-8819
kelly@muttlynchwinery.com
SPAS
New Ways to be Zen at Osmosis Day Spa
Located on five secluded, scenic acres, Osmosis is a Japanese-style retreat with beautiful bonsai and bamboo gardens. Close to the breathtaking Sonoma Coast, Wine Country and redwoods, it is the perfect place to relax and “get centered” this spring. They offer two new packages:
“Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay” Getaway Package
Stay overnight at Bodega Bay Lodge, indulge in a wine surf and cheese plate at Gourmet au Bay while enjoying the scenic view over the water, then warm your bones in a Japanese cedar enzyme bath for two at Osmosis Day Spa. This is a $475 value package offered for $279, Sunday through Thursday, through March 31, 2014.
“Fight the Flu” Special Package
Give your immune system a boost with two of the most popular experiences at Osmosis Day Spa. The relaxing, detoxifying and circulatory enhancement effects of the cedar enzyme bath are the ideal preparation for a customized Swedish massage. Release muscle tensions, relax the entire body, and increase oxygen to your blood.
This package is $239 (a $288 value) per person and is available for the month of March 2014.
Osmosis Day Spa & Sanctuary
209 Bohemian Hwy
Freestone, CA 95472
www.osmosis.com/specials
Media Contact: Christa Nash
707-823-8231
christa@osmosis.com
TOURS
Vin de Luxe Tours
This new wine tour company is owned by Bruce MacKay, a knowledgeable wine educator and guide who used to work in the high-tech world.
In 2013 Bruce became a Certified Tourism Ambassador for Sonoma County, and has crafted a series of tours to showcase Moon Mountain for its recent American Viticulture Area recognition. The tours have been created for couples, or two couples traveling together. Tours require a few days to confirm appointments, and picnic choice.
“Over The Moon”
This unique experience begins at the Sonoma Skypark where visitors take to the skies for a 30-minute open cockpit flight with Captain Bob in his 1926 Travelair Biplane. You will see the “quilt” of vineyards and wineries called Moon Mountain from above. Once your feet are on the ground, it's off to tour two wineries and a gourmet picnic lunch. Cost is $850 per couple and includes air tour, personal driving, picnic lunch, and winery fees.
“Walk on the Moon”
A driver takes guests to Glen Oaks Vineyard on Moon Mountain, to meet the winemaker and walk in this historic vineyard. After wine tasting and a picnic lunch, it's off to Naked Wines, a collective of aspiring winemakers. Finish the day with a visit to Figone Olive Oil to taste olive oils and balsamic vinegars, and chocolate tasting at Wine Country Chocolates. Cost is $395 per couple and includes personal driving, picnic lunch, and tasting fees.
“The Valley of the Moon”
Take a trip back in time, beginning with a tour of Old Hill Vineyard, which includes more than 30 varietals dating back 150 years. Next, a visit to Jack London State Park for a private tour of Jack London's Beauty Ranch, the legacy of London's passion for the land. Enjoy a picnic lunch accompanied by hearty Zinfandel made from grapes grown on the property. The day ends with a visit to Panglos Cellars, in Glen Ellen, for a wine flight paired with artisan cheese. Cost is $495 per couple, and includes personal driving, picnic lunch, and tasting fees.
MacKay is also available to help create a personalized tour in Sonoma County.
Vin de Luxe Tours
www.vindeluxetours.com
707-799-4148
Media Contact: Bruce MacKay
Bruce@vindeluxetours.com
707-799-4148
Wine Country Walking Tours Announces New 2014 Tours
Wine Country Walking Tours will add new itineraries to its guided fine wine and food adventures in Healdsburg and Geyserville. Designed for the gourmand who enjoys exploring on foot, Wine Country Walking Tours' expanded menu now gives participants four different choices to suit their interests.
The new Sip, Savor & Stroll tour is a comprehensive, five-hour discovery of Healdsburg, featuring wines at three tasting rooms and stops at Costeaux French bakery, Dragon Fly Tea Company, Healdsburg Olive Oil, and Moustache Bakery or Shed. The group will have lunch at either Oakville Grocery Co. or The Wurst Restaurant. The finale is a chocolate sampling at the Healdsburg General Store.
The four-hour New Flavors of Healdsburg tour takes guests to some newer, must-try spots that even well-traveled gourmands might not know yet. Included are stops at The Parish Café, with its New Orleans-style beignets, Mateo's Cocina Latina, and Rosenblum Cellars.
A Taste of Geyserville introduces guests to the wine and culinary attractions of this hideaway north of Healdsburg. The two-and-a-half-hour tour brings visitors to four winery tasting and provides samples at Diavola restaurant, known for its hand-crafted pizzas.
Wine Country Walking Tours is the original wine and food walking tour company in Healdsburg. Each of the company's knowledgeable, friendly guides is a local resident and has completed Sonoma County's Certified Tourism Ambassador program. All guides are well-versed in the region's culinary scene and history. The company's strong partnerships with area wineries and gourmet food artisans mean Wine Country Walking Tours show guests an insider's view.
Reservations are accepted in advance, but same-day bookings are also welcome. For more information, visit the website at www.winecountrywalkingtours.org, or call 707-758-4725.
Wine Country Walking Tours
1083 Vine Street, Suite 182
Healdsburg, CA 95448
www.winecountrywalkingtours.org
Media Contact: Kirsten Jones
707-758-4725
kirsten@winecountrywalkingtours.org
ARTS
New Children's Museum
Sonoma County will soon have a place to inspire children's creativity and stimulate their curiosity at the new Children's Museum of Sonoma County. The museum, scheduled to open March 29, is adjacent to the Charles M. Schulz Museum and the Redwood Ice Arena.
The new museum will have an outdoor nature education area, where kids will be greeted by Mary the butterfly, their host during their stay in her garden. She'll encourage children to explore her lifecycle by playing in a butterfly egg, climbing on and in caterpillars, and emerging from a chrysalis.
Kids will be able to roll down hills, explore paths, and dig for treasure in a gravel pit. A miniature Russian River runs for fishing and a mechanical water play area is a draw for all ages. A playful farmers market will welcome shoppers and gardeners, while the tractor and windmill attract curious hands and minds. In Ella's Art Studio, children can explore with paint, chalk, fabrics, clay and more.
More attractions in the museum will be added later in the year. Look for an indoor Science and Imagination Gallery and a TOTtopia toddler room.
The Children's Museum of Sonoma County will be open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays; and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays Admission is $7 for adults and children. Babies under 12 months are free.
Children's Museum of Sonoma County
1835 West Steele Lane
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
www.cmosc.org
Media Contact: Anya Drelich
707-546-4069
Anya@cmosc.org
New Discovered Artists Exhibit at Sonoma Valley Museum
The Sonoma Valley Museum is highlighting the work of four exceptionally talented artists who live and work in Sonoma County. The artists were chosen by a jury and their work shows that artists who live and work in Sonoma County are committed to their practice, involved with their community, and engaged with the present.
Each of the four artists in “Discovered” has a distinct, yet connected vision of the world today.
Maura Harrington juxtaposes scenes from her local, natural environment with the fluorescent, artificial world that surrounds us. This contrast presents a startling, eerie and familiar aura.
Miles Votek, is an interdisciplinary artist exploring utopian visions of California through contemporary video and ceramics. His romantic, apocalyptic worlds collide in his struggle to make sense of the failed dreams of Western idealism.
Erik Castro's poignant photographs and videos allow us to step into the world of people we typically observe from a distance. Choosing subjects who we see and ignore every day, such as homeless children, he forces us to look at difficult subjects and confront our feelings of despair.
Stan Abercrombie, with his encyclopedic knowledge of art and architecture, assembles objects and images into two and three-dimensional combinations that inspire abundant curiosity and mystery.
Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults. Children K–12 are admitted free, as are SVMA members. Additional information is available
The Sonoma Valley Museum of Art
551 Broadway
Sonoma, CA
707-939-7862
www.svma.org
Media Contact: Kate Eilertsen
keilertsen@svma.org
707-939-7862x12
New Location for Calabi Art Gallery
After four years in Petaluma, Calabi Art Gallery has moved to a new Santa Rosa location. The new space is a bit larger where more artwork can be displayed and owner and restoration artist, Dennis Calabi, has more storage.
Calabi is a conservator and restorer of paintings created by lesser-known and underappreciated artists in Sonoma County, the Bay Area, and beyond. Customers say it's obvious when you walk in that Calabi is a man who loves the work and just wants his clients to love it too.
The gallery's inventory ranges from 19th to 21st century, representational to abstract, including paintings, sculpture, graphics, photography, and mixed media. Prices range from $40 for photographs, to thousands for fine art work. The new gallery will be open Tuesday through Saturday, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Calabi Gallery
456 Tenth Street
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
707-781-7070
calabigallery.com
Media Contact: Camille Palmer
707-781-7070
info@calabigallery.com
Sonoma County ARTrails Reintroduced
This open art studio tour will be reinstated this fall with new sponsorship from the Sebastopol Center for the Arts. The two-weekend event is scheduled for Oct. 11-12, and Oct. 18-19. Art fans will have the opportunity to visit more than 160 artists in their studios and even purchase works.
For 28 years Sonoma County ARTrails, sponsored by the now-defunct Arts Council of Sonoma County, introduced artists directly to art fans. Now, the Sebastopol Center for the Arts has stepped in to sponsor the event. The center also hosts a popular, similar event — Art at the Source — which will take place May 31- June 1 and June 7-8, and will feature 150 artists in their studios, mostly in western Sonoma County.
Both events showcase the breadth and depth of the artists who live in Sonoma County.
Sonoma County Art Trails
707-829-4797
www.artrails.org/
info@sonomacountyarttrails.org
Media Contact: Linda Galletta
707-829-4797
Art Show & Sale to Benefit Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods
The beautiful Sonoma Coast will offer even more reasons to stop and stare the weekend of May 2 through May 4. The first ever Sonoma Art on the Coast weekend will feature open artist studios, special events at local galleries, and the Art on the Coast Festival in the tiny hamlet of Jenner by the Sea.
Even local chefs are getting in on the event by preparing special menus inspired by art and showcasing Sonoma Coast art in their restaurants. The Jenner Inn will have lodging specials for the weekend and guests will be invited to special art related events.
The main event for the weekend is the Art on the Coast Festival on Sunday, May 4. This is a juried event and open to all artists. Attendees will get to enjoy the art, musical performances, local artisan foods, regional wines and micro brews. They'll also get to witness a live art demonstration from graffiti artist, “80sixer.”
All events benefit the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, a non-profit organization promoting education, preservation and restoration of the natural and cultural resources of Russian River area State Parks.
Sonoma Art on the Coast weekend
707-592-4949
www.SonomaCoastArt.com
Media Contact: Harvey Mendelson
goldcoastdigital@gmail.com
Wool Festival Celebrates Harvest
As you head toward the Sonoma Coast and drive through the tiny town of Valley Ford, you'll see some of the happiest sheep in the country dotting the hillsides and munching on vegetation. Locals shear the sheep and make some of the best wool products found in the world, and now they've decided to make a celebration of their “farm to home” lifestyle.
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 17 and 18, downtown Valley Ford guests will learn the steps that fiber growers and artists go through to create artisan crafted wool goods. They create everything from clothing, bedding, home accessories, blankets, rugs, handspun yarns, and more.
The first-ever wool festival will also feature live music and some of the best local foods, cheeses and wines coming from within a five-mile radius of Valley Ford.
Wool Festival
14390 Highway 1
Valley Ford, CA 94972
office@valleyfordwoolmill.com
valleyfordwoolmill.com/event/1st-annual-wool-festival-a-celebration-of-the-wool-harvest
Media Contact: Ariana Strozzi
707-338-9817
New Play at the Russian River's Curtain Call Theatre
“The Importance of Being Earnest” just opened at this well-cared-for community theatre in the Russian River town of Monte Rio. The play will run each weekend through April 12, with a gala event fundraiser performance on closing night.
This event will feature a buffet of hors d'oeuvres, entrees, side dishes, desserts, Korbel Champagne and wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. The cost for the gala event is a tax-deductible donation of $40. Doors open at 7 p.m., curtain at 8p.m.
The other weekend performances start at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and Sunday matinees at 3p.m. Regular admission is $20, $15 for senior citizens. To make theater more affordable for everyone, the first three Fridays are “pay-what-you-can”.
Directed by Michael Tabib, the managing director of Curtain Call Theatre at the Russian River, the play features a seasoned cast of talented actors ready to give visitors an evening of fun, frolic, and joyous laughter. For reservations and further information call 707- 524-8739.
The Importance of Being Earnest
Curtain Call Theatre at the Russian River
20347 Highway 116
Monte Rio, CA 95462
www.russianriverhall.com
707- 524-8739
Media Contact: Michael Tabib
707-524-8739
russianriverhall@gmail.com
LODGING
Improvements at Sonoma Creek Inn
Located a short drive from wineries, parks, and the downtown area of Sonoma, the Sonoma Creek Inn is an affordable and casual hotel that just completed updates to improve their guest experience.
Their 16 guest rooms now have new carpets and bed treatments. Each also received a new flat screen television and Keurig coffee maker. The inn has a brand-new air conditioning and heating system, and the check-in area has a beautiful new hardwood floor.
Rooms are decorated with original artwork, handcrafted accessories, art tiles, and are painted in warm, inviting colors. Many rooms have private outdoor patios or porches, a perfect spot for relaxing after a busy day exploring Sonoma County.
All rooms have individually controlled heat and air-conditioning, complimentary wireless Internet access, telephones with data ports, in-room refrigerators, hairdryers, ceiling fans, and cable TV. Free onsite parking is included with all reservations.
Sonoma Creek Inn
239 Boyes Blvd.
Sonoma, CA 95476
888-712-1289
www.sonomacreekinn.com
Media Contact: Sharon Rooney
707-838-1637
sharon@foursisters.com
Click to go Camping
Camping at Austin Creek State Recreation Area in Guerneville just got easier, and a lot more hip. For the first time, campers can secure camping spots through Hipcamp.com, instead of dealing with a first-come, first-served basis.
Hipcamp is a Bay Area start-up founded by software engineer Alyssa Ravasio, a 25-year-old area native who started the company out of the frustration of finding open campsites. Park officials confirm the old system of getting a camping spot at Austin Creek caused frustration for those who traveled to the reserve, to discover spots already taken. They hope the new system will encourage more people to camp.
The 5,700-acre reserve has 23 campsites, 15 of which can now be reserved through Hipcamp.com. An additional eight sites are set aside for walk-ups. Reserved campsites at Austin Creek cost $35 per night and walk-ups are $25. Sites can be reserved at www.hipcamp.com/ca/north-coast/austin-creek/bullfrog-pond-campground.
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
17000 Armstrong Woods Road
Guerneville, CA, 95446-9587
707-869-9177 ext. 3# (Monday - Friday)
707-869-2015 (Weekends)
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=452
Media Contact: Michele Luna
michele@stewardscr.org
707-869-9177
New wedding elopement package at Sonoma Coast
Sea Ranch Lodge, a small, secluded property on Northern California's rugged Sonoma Coast, is a serene destination that embraces the beauty and bounty of nature in myriad expressions.
Now the romantic hotel is offering a special all-inclusive small wedding package.
Perfect for weddings from two to 24 people, the package includes a romantic ceremony at Bihler Point, a secluded breathtaking point on the bluffs with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
The package includes:
• Romantic ceremony on Bihler Point
• Personalized non-denominational marriage ceremony by our resident officiant
• Wedding coordinator
• Photographer
• Three-course dinner with wine in Black Point Grill's Private Dining Room
• Sparkling wine toast
• Bouquet and/or boutonniere
• Floral table centerpiece
• Wedding cake
• Commemorative champagne flutes for the wedding couple
• Ocean View Room for the wedding couple
• Full made to order breakfast the following morning
Prices range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the number of guests attending.
Sea Ranch Lodge
60 Sea Walk Drive
The Sea Ranch, California 95497
707-785-2371
www.searanchlodge.com
Media Contact: Terry Johnson
terry@searanchlodge.com
(707) 785-4812
BREWERIES
New Craft Brewery Tap Room Opens in Windsor
St. Florian's Brewery has opened a new taproom in Windsor. The craft brewery, run by a husband-and-wife team, welcomes visitors to stop in and try their beer made on premises and see how the beer is made.
The Tap Room features St. Florian's beers as well as lively games of dominoes or cards. Guests are invited to bring their own food, or take-out from nearby restaurants on the Windsor Town Green. Or customers may purchase from local food trucks that stop by.
Named for the patron saint of firefighters, St. Florian's is run by Amy and Aron Levin. Aron, a fire captain for the local fire department, named his brewery to recognize the “hero in all of us” and they donate 5 percent of their profits to fire-related and community-based organizations.
St. Florian's Brewery is open Fridays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m. They also announce additional hours and event on their Facebook page.
St. Florian's Brewery Tap Room
7704A Bell Road
Windsor, CA
707-838-BREW
info@stfloriansbrewery.com
www.stfloriansbrewery.com
Media Contact: Amy Levin
amy@stfloriansbrewery.com
707-616-0198
Warped Brewing Company
This new brewery and tasting room just opened its doors in February at The Barlow in Sebastopol. It has a fun, funky vibe with a retro video game theme. Currently, Warped Brewing produces four beers including Pixelated Porter, a molasses porter; Orbital Outrage; California Common; and Crash of '83, a very balanced IPA.
Owners Noah and Mirjam Bolmer also own Barley and Hops Tavern in Occidental. After tasting, guests may head west for dinner where their beers are paired with burgers, sandwiches like the Curry Fried Chicken Sandwich, or entrees, like their Guinness Cottage Pie made with ground beef, English peas, carrots, and onions in a Guinness gravy, topped with mashed potatoes and baked.
Warped Brewing Company
6790 McKinley St. #190 (in The Barlow)
Sebastopol, CA
707- 829-2061
www.facebook.com/WarpedBrewing
Media Contact: Noah and Mirjam Bolmer
707- 829-2061
Fogbelt Brewing Company
Long-time friends Paul Hawley and Remy Martin both grew up in Sonoma County. Hawley has been working at his family's winery since 2005 and Martin studied brewing at UC Davis and local breweries.
From these experiences comes their newest venture: Fogbelt Brewing Company. Named for the unique area in coastal Sonoma County where the fog from the ocean meets the mountains of the redwoods, Fogbelt is located on Cleveland Avenue in Santa Rosa, in the same Wineyard mall as D'Argenzio Winery.
Befitting a brewery named for the weather conditions that produce California's iconic redwoods trees, all of the beers on offer are named for famous redwood trees. Th beers ininclude Lost Monarch Wit Beer, Atlas Blonde, Del Norte IPA, Hyperion Red Ale and Armstrong Stout.
Fogbelt is open Thursday through Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.Fogbelt Brewing Company
1305 Cleveland Avenue
Santa Rosa, CA, 95401
707-978-3400
www.fogbeltbrewing.com
Media Contact: Paul Hawley
707-978-3400
New Location for Taps Petaluma
In February, this beloved restaurant and tasting room moved down the street from its original location in Petaluma.
An aging ventilation system in the pub's tiny kitchen gave way, preventing them from serving their popular hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and wings. Repairs were too expensive, so the business found a bigger location where they can prepare all of their customer's favorites, and a few more.
They also have room for more beers on tap.
Taps Restaurant & Tasting Room
54 E. Washington Street
Petaluma, CA
707-763-6700
www.petalumataps.com
Media Contact: Eric Lafranchi
707-763-6700
RESTAURANTS
Palooza Gastropub and Wine Bar: From Food Truck to Restaurant
Owner Jeff Tyler has made a name for himself in Sonoma County with Palooza Catering and sought-after food trucks that serve everything from hot dogs to sliders. Now he has a brand new brick-and-mortar restaurant in Kenwood, the Palooza Gastropub and Wine Bar.
The menu changes seasonally and offers small plates that range from $8 to $13. A recent menu featured kale salad, savory cannoli stuffed with mascarpone cheese and bacon, and roasted bone marrow with grilled toast and micro greens.
Main dishes range from $15 to $19.50 and may include a veal meatloaf wrapped in bacon with brown butter mashed potatoes, fried monkfish drenched in Rogue Dead Guy beer batter, served with frites and hibiscus ketchup. Palooza is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Palooza Gastropub and Wine Bar
8910 Sonoma Highway
Kenwood, CA
707-833-4000
www.paloozafresh.com/
Media Contact: Jeff Tyler
707-833-4000
Central Market in Petaluma Reopens
Maybe it's his New Orleans roots, but not even a little chimney fire could keep Chef Tony Najiola and his team down. Central Market, one of the county's acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants reopened in December after being shut down by a fire that broke out Aug. 31.
Central Market is located in the historic Maclay Building, built in 1918 in the heart of downtown Petaluma. Thanks to a quick response from local firefighters, the flames damaged the restaurant, but did not destroy the building.
After months of hard work, Central Market is back and open daily for dinner. Their cuisine is rustic California-Mediterranean, with ingredients coming from Muleheart Farm, Central Market's own dedicated farm.
Central Market
42 Petaluma Boulevard North
Petaluma, CA
707-778-9900
www.centralmarketpetaluma.com
Media Contact: Tony Najiola
707-778-9900
Topsy's Kitchen Serves Southern Breakfasts
This new hot spot in Petaluma serves farmhouse cuisine with a focus on Southern comfort food. Breakfast are lunch served Tuesday through Sunday, and customers rave about the warm, fluffy New Orleans-style Beignets, egg scrambles, breakfast bowls, fried chicken and waffles, and fresh baked sticky cinnamon rolls.
Topsy's Kitchen
131 Kentucky Street
Petaluma, California 94952
707-773-4743 (773-4PIE)
www.facebook.com/pages/Topsys-Kitchen-Petaluma
Media Contact: Estelle “Topsy” Rand
707-773-4743
New Location for Sift Cupcake + Dessert Bar
Sonoma County just got a little sweeter with the opening of a third Sift Cupcake + Dessert Bar in Petaluma. The company already has locations in Cotati, Santa Rosa, and San Francisco.
All three locations serve cupcakes in flavors such as Red Velvet, 24 Carrot, and Limonata. They also create delicious flavors of macaroons, party cakes, whoopie cookies, and ice cream sandwiches. Walk in customers are welcome, as well as orders for custom gifts, parties and weddings.
Sift Cupcake + Dessert Bar
404 Mendocino Ave-Suite A
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
www.siftcupcakes.com
Media Contact: Jordan Keith
707-282-5333
marketing@siftcupcakes.com
Healdsburg Bar & Grill Now Serving Breakfast
The beloved burger joint and “hang out” spot on the corner of the Healdsburg Plaza is now serving breakfast.
The new menu follows the same focus as the lunch and dinner menu that has made the Healdsburg Bar & Grill so popular — good comfort food with a Southern accent. Look for house made cinnamon rolls, bagels, fried chicken and waffles, eggs served over-easy on pork hash, omelets and egg scrambles.
The restaurant, owned by Top Chef Master Doug Keane, is open daily now starting at 8 a.m., with breakfast served until 11 a.m.
Healdsburg Bar & Grill
245 Healdsburg Ave
Healdsburg, California 95448
707- 433-3333
www.healdsburgbarandgrill.com
Media Contact: Doug Keane
707-433-3333
Fresh Mediterranean Dips Available from Taverna Sofia
Dip into authentic Mediterranean goodness while picnicking in Wine Country, or looking for a healthy snack.
Created by Chef Sofia Petridis-Lim, owner of Taverna Sofia Restaurant in Healdsburg, these flavorful dips are vegetarian, and most are gluten free. Available in specialty markets like Big John's and Shelton's Natural Foods in Healdsburg, Taverna Sofia dips add pizzazz to pita bread, chips, sandwiches, grilled meats, raw or roasted veggies, and more.
Choose from:
•Kopanisti – a spicy cheese dip. Feta blended with pickled peppers, mint, and spices
• Tzatziki – the iconic Greek sauce. Thick yogurt with a kick of dill, garlic, and cooling cucumber
• Baba Ghanoush – flavorful roasted eggplant blended with tahini, zesty chopped tomatoes, peppers and herbs
• Skordalia – a rich dip of garlic blended with almonds and potato (not gluten free)
• Hummus – creamy organic garbanzo beans, Greek olive oil and tahini
•Taramosalata – A bold salty dip made from imported carp roe with lemon juice and olive oil
Taverna Sofia
244 Healdsburg Avenue
Healdsburg, CA 95449
707-431-1982
www.TavernaSofia.com
Media Contact: Tyffani Peters-Sedgwick
707-318-2726
Tyffani@MediaMongerPR.com
New Immersion-Brewed Coffee at Shed
At the cool, new modern-day grange, called Shed, in Healdsburg, visitors can follow their nose to the new Brew Bar. This is where they make “immersion-brewed” coffee by the cup.
Immersion brewing combines the full-bodied richness of a French press with the clean taste of filter-dripped coffee. The drink is drip-activated but sits covered before pouring. It's the best of both caffeinated worlds.
A 12-ounce cup is $3, and is made with single origin beans roasted for Shed by neighboring Flying Goat Coffee. They also sell the Immersion Dripper used to make the coffee, in case visitors decide they'd like to make it at home.
Shed
25 North Street
Healdsburg CA 95448
707–431–7433
be@healdsburgshed.com
Media Contact: Laiko Bahrs
415-794-9882
lbahrs@me.com
WINE SHIPPING
Ship Your Wine Home from Sonoma Valley
Bodega Shipping Co. Sonoma specializes in wine shipping. Located in Sonoma Valley, it's an ideal solution to ship wine from several wineries home.
Providing the same great service no matter the size of the order, Bodega Shipping has eliminated all hidden fees. Packaging costs are factored into the prices. The company will pick up any package for free within the city limits of Sonoma.
Electronic shipping forms are available on the website and can be accessed from any mobile device or computer. Here customers can make pickup and shipping request for wine they may have collected.
Most other shipping companies require a written description of all the wine to be shipped. Bodega has a “submit a picture” option, making it faster and easier for the customer.
Customers can submit payment on the form or at the time of pickup using mobile credit card readers. All orders receive a confirmation email after submission and tracking information once the order is shipped.
Currently, Bodega Shipping is offering a 10 percent discount. Just use the promo code “sonoma” in the payment section of the form.
Bodega Shipping Co. Sonoma
www.bodegashippingco.com
750 West Napa St.
Sonoma CA
707-343-1656
Media Contact: Esteban Luna
707-343-1656
esteban@bodegashippingco.com
CYCLING
Cycling Challenge Adds Local Food and Brews
While getting ready for its fourth event, the Sonoma County Backroad Challenge cycling event has new sponsors and activities this year.
Less than two months away, registrations are pouring in so sign up now. This year, teams or 10 or more received 10 percent off registration fees. The event is limited to 1,750 cyclists.
The ride offers three routes: Century Ride (99.7 miles, 7,419 ft of elevation); Metric Century (71.6 miles, 4,262 ft of elevation); and the Half Metric (37.4 miles, 1,495 ft of elevation)
Vendors will be supplying food and drinks at rest stops: Wholefoods, Smari Organic Icelandic Yogurt, Artisana Foods, Clif, and GU. CamelBak will be giving out free gear at the post-ride festival to some lucky riders (must be present to win). Three Twins organic ice cream will be serving up dessert at the festival.
And then there is beer: Petaluma Hills, Henhouse, and Lagunitas will all be serving up their craft brew at the festival at Penngrove Park. Riders won't go away hungry or thirsty after the ride. Staying overnight? Petaluma Hotel is “cyclist friendly.” Ask for Jessica when booking.
Sonoma County Backroad Challenge Cycling Event
www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLcKAzTZWcc
www.backroadchallenge.com
Media Contact: Shane Campbell
707-753-1588
shane@b2bcfo.com
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Sonoma County, located 45 minutes north of San Francisco, provides a genuine, independent, and adventurous wine country experience, featuring more than 400 wineries, 100-plus organic farms, and over 50 miles of stunning Pacific coast.
For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call + 1 707-522-5800.
Birgitt Vaughan
Sonoma County Tourism
707-522-5826
bvaughan@sonomacounty.com
