Tuscan Villa Rendering - Summer 2013

Robert Renzoni Vineyards has got big news to share!  Their 19th century-style Tuscan Villa estate is slated to break ground on July 1st, 2012.

The Tuscan Villa will offer visitors an authentic Italian experience in wine country. Opening Summer 2013, the property will include a 4500 square-foot outdoor patio with a gourmet pizza kitchen featuring a wood-burning brick oven, 3500 square-room tasting room, an exclusive wine club tasting bar and al fresco area, and an extensive basement for barrel storage. In the center of the property, a 50-foot bell tower will chime at the opening and closing of every day in honor of Robert’s grandfather, Domenic Renzoni.

“We’re thrilled to announce Louis Prima Jr. and his band will be staying and playing during the opening weekend festivities,” says owner Robert Renzoni.

Look to visit the new tasting facility next summer and be sure to check the website and Twitter for the latest updates throughout the year!

In the meantime, The Little Winehouse is a hidden gem in the vineyards. Wine-lovers are welcome to picnic on the grounds among the horse trails and hitching posts. “It’s the perfect spot to bring your own picnic lunch and enjoy a bottle of wine with family,” Robert encourages.

Also new! Robert Renzoni Vineyards offers a guided Vineyard Walking Tour which starts right in the vines. Wine enthusiasts will learn about the agriculture that goes into producing great grapes that make fabulous wines. Vineyard and winery tours are a great introduction to winemaking and the region of Temecula Valley.

The Story

The history of winemaking in the Renzoni family dates to 1886, when Robert’s great-grandfather Federico began working in the vineyards near Fano, a small Italian village on the shores of the Adriatic Sea in Tuscany. While tending the vineyards, Federico and his father began making wine for family and friends – these were the humble beginnings of the long Renzoni family wine history. The Robert Renzoni Winery and Vineyard is a tribute to Robert’s ancestor’s, Federico, Romeo, and Domenic.

The Wines

Robert Renzoni Vineyards mainly produces Italian varietals in honor of the winemaking heritage dating back 126 years.

Robert Renzoni wines include unique blends –

• 2009 Big Fred’s Red (50% Zinfandel, 50% Sangiovese)
• 2011 Cantata (60% Pinot Grigio, 40% Viognier)
• 2008 Concerto (66% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah, 17% Merlot)
• 2007 Vecchio Frate “Old Friar” (90% Lagrein, 10% Merlot)

As well as Italian favorites –

• 2009 Sangiovese
• 2008 Barbera
• 2008 Fiore di Fano – Super Tuscan-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc
• 2011 Pinot Grigio

Tasting

The tasting room is open daily from 11am-6pm.  The standard tasting fee is $12 per person; $15 for the premium tasting. Premium tasting includes a crystal souvenir glass. All available Robert Renzoni vintages are limited in quantity, but feel free to inquire with the winery staff if you are interested in a particular vintage.

Upcoming Music Events

May 6 ~ Lanny Henry 2pm – 5pm.

May 13 ~ Jacque Forman 2pm – 5pm.

May 20 ~ Tim Cash 2pm – 5pm.

May 27 ~ Jeff Bristol 2pm – 5pm.

Erik Turner from the famous band “Warrant” will be performing acoustic sets in the tasting room throughout the summer and the rest of the year. Check the website for show times.

Address and Contact Info

Below are five fun facts on this Old World varietal, plus some suggestions on where to pick up an affordable bottle at one of your local Temecucla Valley wineries.

1. Pinot Gris (French) and Pinot Grigio (Italian) refer same grape – just different countries and different styles.
2. Very closely related to the Pinot Noir grape, the grape normally has a grayish-blue skin, accounting for its name – gris meaning “grey” in French; pinot comes from the French word “pine cone,” which could have been given to it because the grapes grow in pine cone-shaped clusters.
3. The first American Pinot Gris vines were planted in Oregon in 1966 by David Lett from Eyrie Vineyards.
4. Pinot Gris grows well in the Central and South coastal areas of California. The Pinot Gris from California is often called Pinot Grigio because of its similarity in style to the wine of Italy.
5. Pinot gris is considered an “early to market wine” – which means it can be bottled and out on the market within 4–12 weeks after fermentation.  This white can be opened and consumed young.

Temecula Valley wine country Pinot Grigios to try:

• Robert Renzoni Vineyards, 2011 Pinot Grigio “Julia’s Vineyard;” $20
• Callaway Vineyard & Winery, 2011 Special Selection Pinot Gris; $18
• Cougar Winery, 2011 Pinot Grigio; $16.95
• Ponte Winery, 2010 Pinot Grigio; $23.95

Churon Winery

“Be the Winemaker” Night

Wednesday, May 16; 6:00p-8:30p

$35 per person; $25 for wine club

Winners receive the Gold Award and a bottle of their creation to take home.  Seating is limited and reservations required.  Call 951.694.9070 for tickets to the event.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Semi-Annual Salsa and Guacamole Competition

Saturday, May 5, Cinco De Mayo; 4:00p-7:00p

Our 2nd semi-annual Salsa & Guacamole competition. Compete together for the best in the west. Spicy, hot, savory, everything tasty judged by professionals. Feast on carne asada taco buffet, plus your choice of sangria, wine or beer. Additional beverages may be purchased. Participants are $10, paid at time of sign up, attendees get all this for only $25pp and $20pp for wine club members (day of event $35pp and $30pp for wine club members). Please RSVP 951.491.0825 or email wineclub@cougarvineyards.com or purchase your tickets through our secure online store today at www.cougarvineyards.com.

Europa Village

Art Class in the Vineyard
Wednesday, May 9; 1:00p-3:00p

Musical Wine Dinner: “Feria de Espana”

Wednesday, May 16; 6:30p-9:00p

Musical Wine Dinner: Feria de Espana

Thursday, May 17; 6:30p-9:00p

VINGO!
Tuesday, May 22
Fun and educational wine game

Art Class in the Vineyard
Wednesday, May 23; 1:00p-3:00p

Wine Dinner benefiting the Temecula Theater Foundation

Sunday, May 27

Live Music

Friday, May 4 – Rachael Stark from 6:30p-9:30p

Sunday, May 6 – Matthew Fagan from 12:00p-3:00p

Friday, May 11 – Cougrzz

Friday, May 18 – 4019′s

Sunday, May 20 – Leo Gosselin from 12:00p-3:00p

Friday, May 25 – Abacus

For more information on all Europa Village events, please visit http://europavillage.com.

Falkner Winery

Free Jazz on Sundays

Performances will be 3 hours beginning at noon and going until 3:00pm and will be held in their outside lawn area adjacent to the tasting room.   As the name indicates, every Sunday afternoon live jazz performances will be available to winery customers at no charge and with no reservations required. Chairs and tables will be provided for the audience.  Freshly prepared barbequed food and wine by the glass or bottle are available for each performance.

Frangipani Winery

Live Music performed by Michael Chain

Saturday, May 21 & Sunday, May 22; 12:00p-4:00p

Longshadow Ranch Winery

Steve Oliver Live in Concert

Friday, May 4; 6:00p

Featuring the amazing jazz guitar artistry of Steve Oliver, plus an acoustic performance by Longshadow Winery owner and winemaker Jon Brodersen.  General Admission: $25, Preferred Seating: $35.  Proceeds benefit Dorland Mountain Community for the Arts.  Wine, beer, and dinner will be available.  Click here to purchase tickets.

Miramonte Winery

Complimentary Live Music

Friday, May 4; 7:00p-10:00p

Stereoflux – Awesome band! Modern rock of 80s, 90s thru today.

Sunday, May 6; 2:00p-5:00p

Caleb Fritel – Soulfully inspired local songwriter, known for his passionate acoustics

Friday, May 11; 7:00p-10:00p

JD Priest – Wildly soulful. All-American rock, incredibly popular local favorite.

Saturday, May 12; 7:00p-10:00p

Shoot 4 Tuezday – Awesome band! Modern rock of 80s, 90s thru today.

Sunday, May 13; 2:00p-5:00p

Alex & Morgan (stereoflux acoustic)

Friday, May 18; 7:00p-10:00p

Mark Sage Band – Local Fav! Americana, R&B and soul …

Saturday, May 19; 7:00p-10:00p

4019′s – The Who meets The Clash meets The Ramones

Sunday, May 20; 2:00p-5:00p

Waylon Hicks – Well known in The IE. Comfortable, progressive, soulful jazz

Friday, May 25; 7:00p-10:00p

Master Splinter & the Shredders – Gutsy, modern rock performers. Big sound!

Saturday, May 26; 7:00p-10:00p

Missy Andersen – The queen of all local soul, rhythm and blues!

Monte De Oro Winery

Kentucky Derby Day

Saturday, May 5; 3:00p

Come and watch – live – the greatest 2 minutes in sports and see who will be crowned the 2012 Kentucky Derby winner.  As is tradition at Churchill Downs, for all those Ladies visiting Monte De Oro wearing hats, wine tasting will be 50% off our weekend price.

Friday Night Happy Hours at Monte De Oro

5:30p-8:30p; $6.50 glasses of wine and MDO Bistro Menu options available.

May 4 – The Brewer Boys

May 11 – Rachael Stark

May 18 – Nina Markert

May 25 – American Hero Night to benefit Corporal Juan Domengiz

June 1 – JD Priest

June 8 – Tim Moyer

Mount Palomar Winery

3rd Annual Wine Country Wiener Fest
Sunday, May 6; 11:00a-4:00p

Family-friendly games, local vendors and services, silent auction, raffles and door prizes, food and beverages and wine tasting. “Dexter Derby’s” Dachshund races with Kentucky Derby-style extravagant hat contest!  Visit http://www.wienerfest.info for more information.

Gypsy Tears Concert – Spanish Guitar & Dancing
Saturday, May 19; 6:00p-10:00p
To purchase tickets please visit www.heyday.com/Heyday/Events

Oak Mountain Winery

BBQ Cooking Class presented by Pete’s Firehouse BBQ
Friday, May 4; 6:30p-10:00p
$125 per person
Reservations are required!  Please call Oak Mountain Winery at 951.699.9102

Our hands-on BBQ Cooking Class will show you techniques to select, prepare, trim, season, cook and serve Baby Back Ribs, Pork Spare Ribs, St. Louis Style Pork Ribs, Beef Tri-Tip and much more!

Ponte Winery

Festival of Brides, The Upscale Bridal Show

Sunday, May 6; 11:00a-4:00p
Join us in the Vineyard Pavilion to meet top wedding vendors, tour Ponte Winery, see a wedding dress fashion show and enter to win grand door prizes.

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Horse & Carriage Package

Valid through May 31

$339 Weekdays & $439 Weekends (Fri/Sat)

Includes 2 hour horse & carriage ride, two lunch boxes, one bottle of wine with two souvenir wine glasses, plus a one night stay for two in a luxurious villa and six complimentary tasting coupons for South Coast Winery.

Reservations Required; call 951.587.9463 ext. 1 & mention code Carriage Special

Kirk Whalum in Concert
Saturday, May 19; 7:30pm

Tickets starting at $35.00 and are on sale now at www.cegseats.com or call (213) 742-6960.

Soulful, passionate, stirring…these are the words most often used to describe Kirk Whalum’s music.

Thornton Winery

Live Music on Fridays

Friday, May 4; 6:00p-9:00p

Performance by Waylon Hicks

Friday, May 11

6:00p-9:00p

Performance by Mark Sage

Friday, May 18

6:00p-9:00p

Performance by Leo Gosselin

Friday, May 25

6:00p-9:00p

Performance by Mark Sage

Champagne Jazz Series
The Sax Pack (featuring Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole & Marcus Anderson)

Sunday, May 6; 4:00p

Reservations are required.  Visit http://cf.thorntonwine.com/tickets.php for reservations.

Jazz in the City (featuring Paul Taylor, Marion Meadows & Jesse J
Saturday, May 12; 7:00p
Reservations are required.  Visit http://cf.thorntonwine.com/tickets.php for reservations.

Wilson Creek Winery

Sunset Jazz in the Vines

Sunday, May 6; 5:30p – 8:30p

$40 General Admission; $25 Wine Club Members

PURCHASE TICKETS: https://shop.wilsoncreekwinery.com/SHOP.AMS?LEVEL=MID&CAT=EVENTS

Wilson Creek brings back ERIC DARIUS by popular demand! Known for his dynamic and exhilarating live shows, Eric Darius once again joins the Wilson Creek family for an evening adventure combining contemporary jazz with the truly unique atmosphere of wine country. Eric’s energy and musicality are undeniable. He fuses Jazz with Hip-Hop, R & B, Soul, and Rock for a new sound that’s exciting and truly innovative.

Baily Vineyard & Winery

Mothers Day Champagne Brunch at Carol’s Restaurant
Sunday, May 13

11:00a-3:00p

$54.95 per person, plus tax and gratuity
$19.95 per person, plus tax and gratuity for children 12 and under

Children 5 & under free

Reservations are required by calling Carol’s Restaurant at 951.676.9243

See www.bailywinery.com for menu.

Bel Vino Winery

Mothers Day Champagne Brunch

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a-2:00p

$65 per person, non member; $55 per person, wine club; $25 per person for children under 12

Reservations required by calling Bel Vino Winery at 951.676.6414

Celebrate Mom with a gourmet brunch served with premium champagne and wines.  Our international award-winning chef, Jorge Alvarado, presents a menu prepared with flavorful influences from around the world.  Live entertainment will be provided by Robert Simon. Mom will receive a box of Port Chocolates and each adult reservation includes 2 glasses of champagne.

Callaway Vineyard & Winery

Sparkling Luncheon & Trunk Show

Thursday, May 10; 11am to 2pm

Ticket prices are $42 per person/$37.80 per person for Wine Club members (plus tax and service charge).

Featuring:

Johncee’s Closet ~ Park Lane Jewelry ~ Temecula Lavender Company

Enjoy an afternoon with friends and celebrate being a mom. Sip on sparkling Mimosas, Cranberry Coolers, Bellinis while shopping with our great vendors. Call 951- 676-4001 for reservations or visit us online at www.callawaywinery.com.

Mothers Day Specials at Meritage at Callaway

Now accepting reservations for lunch and dinner Friday, May 11, Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13. Chef Mike will be offering unique specials along with his new Spring inspired menu. Reservations are highly recommended.  Call 951- 676-4001 for reservations or visit us online at www.callawaywinery.com.

Danza del Sol Winery

Mothers Day Brunch at The Club House at Danza del Sol

Sunday, May 13; 11:00a-2:00p (only one seating)

$70 per person; $63 per person for wine club members.  All prices subject to tax and gratuity.

Reservations required by calling Kelly at 951.302.636. ext. 26

This Mothers Day, treat Mom to a Brunch at Southern California’s Premier Winery.  Enjoy a gourmet buffet brunch, live music, and a special treat for Mom while taking in breathtaking views of Temecula Valley.

Europa Village

Mothers Day at Europa Village

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a-6:00p

Releasing the 2010 Albarino and the 2011 Grenache Rose; Cabernet also for sale and moms get a free gift.

For more information, please visit www.europavillage.com

Falkner Winery

Mothers Day Champagne Brunch

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a-3:30p

All food will be prepared by their award winning Executive Chef Gianni Ciciliot and his excellent staff.  Having been designated “Best Restaurant of the Inland Empire” five years in a row and “Best Chef” for 2009, 2010, & 2011 by Inland Empire magazine, this promises to be a spectacular and memorable event.  This will be a special brunch menu served with Champagne along with other beverage options.  Live entertainment.

Lorimar Winery

Mothers Day Specials at Lorimar

Lorimar Vineyards & Winery will be offering a complimentary Fruit Tart with French Sour Cherry and Custard, paired with Grenache Sparkling at our Wine Country Tasting Room on Anza Rd. and Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, paired with Sparkling Wine in our Old Town tasting room for every mom on Mothers Day!

Longshadow Ranch Vineyard & Winery

Mothers Day guest musician Carlos Reynosa, Native American Flutes 1-5pm and horse-drawn carriage rides from 1-3pm.  For details, please visit the Longshadow Winery.

Monte de Oro Winery

Mothers Day Brunch

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a-12:00p Seating Time

$59.95 per adult / Children 3-12 $12.95 / Children under 3 free

All tickets are subject to tax.  Gratuity is not included.

Wine Club Members please use CLUB in the coupon code for your special price.

Celebrate Mothers Day by joining us for our Mothers Day Brunch at Monte De Oro. Enjoy our gourmet brunch menu along with your favorite Monte De Oro wines and toast Mom with mimosas of a glass of champagne to say “thanks” for all that she does for your throughout the year.  Reservations are required, seating is limited.  Visit Monte de Oro for more details.

Mount Palomar

Mothers Day Champagne Brunch
Sunday, May 13; 11:00a to 4:00p
Adults $49 (Wine Club Members $42) plus tax; Children under 12, $19 (includes iced tea or 1 can of soda) plus tax

Celebrate Mothers Day at one of the oldest wineries in Temecula Valley while enjoying live music, a buffet-style brunch, and beautiful surroundings. Buffet with unlimited Champagne/Mimosas. Also includes raffles & prizes. Please make your reservations on our website at www.mountpalomar.com/mothersday or by contacting Laura at laura@mountpalomar.com or 951-676-5047 x118

Ponte Winery

Mothers Day Brunch at Ponte

Sunday, May 13; seatings at 11:00a, 12:00p & 1:30p

$65 per adult, $25 per child
$58.50 per adult, $22.50 per child for wine club

Delicious brunch, sparkling wines, live music. Visit http://shop.pontewinery.com/dept-293832/Special-Event-Tickets.html for more information or to purchase tickets.

Robert Renzoni Winery

Mothers Day at Robert Renzoni Winery

Live music from 2:00p-5:00p

Wine specials and a gift for Mom

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Mothers Day Brunch

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a-4:00p

$42.00 Per Adult (Includes 2 Complimentary Glasses of Champagne); $19.00 Per Child (Ages 5 to 10) Plus Tax & Gratuity

Three seatings available: 10 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Two-hour maximum seating. Call 951-491-8077 today to make reservations.

From chilled displays, salads, sliced fruit and berries, prime roast and omelets, to Chicken Marsala, oven- roasted sea bass, blueberry pancakes, smoked pork hash and desserts, our talented chefs have created a fantastic menu that mom will be talking about for years! Bring the whole family to the Vineyard Rose Restaurant—we also have a kids’ buffet menu.

May Grapeseed Spa Special

This Mothers Day and throughout May, reward your mom with the special attention she deserves at the GrapeSeed Spa. Pamper her with our exclusive Body Immersion Package, including a 50-minute warm stone full-body relaxation massage with rich emollients of May Cheng oil and body butter; a vanilla peppermint foot massage; a sugar- kissed hand treatment and rose facial, and a Moroccan Oil hair treatment. This unforgettable experience also includes a chilled glass of sparkling wine and spa products to take home. Available through May 30, 2012.

For more information, call 866-944-6379, ext. 7280 or visit SouthCoastWinery.com/Spa today.

Wiens Family Cellars

Mothers Day Wine Blending Experience
Sunday, May 13; 6:00p-9:00p
$62.50 per person, $50.00 per person for wine club

Reservations required.  Reserve your ticket here.

Join us for a night of tasting and blending wine. Each ticket holder will have access to 4 different barrels of wine where you’ll get to taste, blend, experiment and create a treasured bottle to take home.

Wilson Creek Winery

Sunday, May 13; 10:00a – 4:00p

Celebrate one of the most important people in your life!  Treat mom to a remarkable Champagne Brunch and afternoon in wine country. Let Mom sit back and relax among the blossoming vines while listening to the magical notes of pianist Frank Marter. All mothers will receive an extra special gift from the Wilson family.  Please call for Reservations: 951.699.9463

Marinated Fromage Appetizer

Ingredients

2 blocks (8oz each) white cheddar cheese

2 pkgs (8oz each) cream cheese, softened

¾ cup chopped roasted sweet red peppers

½ cup Oak Mountain Tuscan avocado oil

¼ cup Oak Mountain pear pomegranate vinegar

¼ cup Oak Mountain Dark Cherry balsamic vinegar

3 tbsp chopped green onions

3 tbsp minced fresh parsley

2 tbsp minced fresh basil

1 tbsp sugar

3 garlic cloves minced

½ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper

Toasted sliced French Bread or assorted crackers

To Make

Slice each block of cheddar cheese into twenty ¼” slices. Cut each block of cream cheese into 18 slices: sandwich between cheddar slices, using a knife to spread evenly. Create  four 6” long blocks of cheese; place in a 13X9” dish

Combine the roasted peppers, oil, vinegars, onions, herbs, sugar, garlic, salt & pepper: pour over cheese. Cover and refrigerate overnight, turning once. Drain excess marinade. Serve cheese with bread or crackers.

Pair with Oak Mountain 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, available for purchase at the winery or online here.

For more recipes and food & wine events, please visit Oak Mountain Winery online or stop in anytime between 11am-5pm daily.

Winery Address:
36522 Via Verde
Temecula, CA. 92592
Phone: 951-699-9102
Fax: 951-699-9103

Ponte Family Estate is an experience that shouldn’t be missed during a getaway to Temecula Valley wine country.  And with the opening of the brand-new Ponte Vineyard Inn in May, everyone can enjoy their experience in Temecula Valley a little bit longer.

The Story

Claudio Ponte planted vineyards in 1984 and opened the popular winery in 2003.  Ponte Family Estate includes The Restaurant at Ponte, tasting room and marketplace, vineyards, wedding/event spaces and the latest addition, the Ponte Vineyard Inn.  Guests are invited to wine, dine and stay, all while enjoying friendly service and hospitality.

The Ponte Vineyard Inn – opening its doors in May!

Ponte Family Estate welcomes visitors to its 60-room boutique, wine country hotel on May 4, which is located next-door to the winery and each room as a vineyard-view.   Book a package today and enjoy an overnight stay in Southern California’s wine country.

The Restaurants

The Restaurant at Ponte is headed by the experienced Chef Vincent Logan.  This al fresco venue prides itself on sourcing local ingredients, serving natural and sustainable meats and fish and providing top-notch service.  A great place for Mother’s Day – or anytime!

The Restaurant at Ponte Dining Hours:
Monday-Thursday 11am-4pm
Friday & Saturday 11am-8pm
Sunday 11am-5pm
(951) 252-1770

For more information on dining at Ponte, please click here.

Within The Ponte Vineyard Inn, there will be the exciting addition of two new restaurants, open to all visitors:  Bouquet and The Cellar Lounge.

Bouquet offers a “sharing and pairing” menu and is conveniently located in the lobby of the hotel with both indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant also serves continental breakfast Monday thru Friday and sit-down breakfast service Saturday and Sunday. Lunch is served from 11:30am to 3pm on weekends only. Dinner served 6pm to 9pm daily.

The Cellar Lounge is located in the basement of the hotel and offers a variety of small plates and entrees in a cool, rustic setting.  The Cellar Lounge boasts the only full bar in wine country and a carefully selected list of locally produced wines. Dinner served 5-10pm daily.

For more information on the new restaurants at The Ponte Vineyard Inn, please click here.

The Wines

Ponte Family Estate offers an approachable, memorable tasting experience that welcomes both new and experienced wine lovers with the mantra, “If you like it, it’s good wine!”™

• Classics – single varietals like Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay
• Blends – the best combinations go into Graciela, Super T, Meritage, and the Angry Wife lines
• Sweet – Juliet, Isabel, and Beverino are top favorites
• Sparkling & Fortified – Moscato, Rose Spumante, Port are perfect for dessert in wine country

The Ponte Winery Wine Club offers incredible VIP service and exciting perks for members all year-round.

Tasting

1.   Rosé has long been the signature wine of Provence, a region in the south of France that makes this “white” wine from red grapes — primarily Grenache.
2.   There are three methods to produce rosé:

3.   Rosé wines can be made still, semi-sparkling or sparkling.
4.   Rosé wine is made in a range of colors, from a pale orange to a vivid near-purple, depending on the grapes, additives and wine making techniques.
5.   American “blush” wines of the 70′s and 80′s were on the sweet side but the pendulum is now swinging back towards a drier, more traditional Provencal style made with grapes like Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan.

Temecula Valley wine country rosés to try:

• South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, 2009 South Coast Winery Grenache Rosé; $14
• Keyways Vineyard & Winery, Rosé of Garnacha; $24
• Leoness Cellars, 2011 White Merlot; $19
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards, 2010 Rosé of Sangiovese; $17
• Miramonte Winery, 2009 Grenache Rosé; $17.50

This educational event is open to all who have a professional interest in viticulture and winemaking.  Tickets are $60 for TVWA members, $80 for non-members; the conference includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch and wine and cheese evening reception. Purchase online at TemeculaWines.org (click on Events) or by phone at (800) 801-9463.

The 2012 Grape Day Conference will be hosted by Wiens Family Cellars.  Highlights from the conference agenda includes the following presentations:

• State of the Industry – Mike Falasco, California Wine Institute
• Postmodern Winemaking Principles – Clark Smith, Appellation America
• Growing, Making and Selling the Mediterranean: Is Temecula In or Out? – with Ed Cohen, Regional Wine and Beer Manager for Cost Plus World Market; and Corie Brown, Managing Editor of Zester Daily (former wine writer for LA Times.)

Attendees will include wine business professionals and educators from UC Riverside, UC Kearney Agricultural Center, and Enartis Vinquiry, among others.

Tickets are still available!

Here’s some pics from last year’s Grape Day Conference –

Bud break begins when the tiny buds on the vine start to swell.  What’s interesting to note is that these buds actually appear in the summer of the previous growth cycle – they are green and covered in scales.  During winter, the buds go dormant and brown and in the spring, they begin to sprout green shoots and finally, grape leaves.

In warm climates like Temecula Valley, it takes about four weeks until the growth of the shoots start to rapidly accelerate, with the tendrils growing an average of one inch per day.

Check out this grape growth chart to explain the stages of bud break:

	Growth Stage 1 – Sprouting – brown “wool” clearly visible
	Growth Stage 2 – Beginning of bud break – green shoot tips just visible
	Growth Stage 3 – Bud break – green shoot tips clearly visible
	Growth Stage 4 – Bud break – green shoot tips slightly opened
	Growth Stage 5 – Leaf development – some leaves unfurl

*Credit for the bud break chart and info goes to Janice Schmidt, a UC Davis trained enologist.

Here’s some Temecula Valley bud break beauty snapshots, courtesy of Falkner Winery.  Happy early spring from wine country!

Callaway Vineyard & Winery

“A Taste of Spring” Seminar with the Winemaker – April 22; 10am-12:30pm

This seminar begins with a mimosa, continental breakfast and walk in the vineyard.  Callaway winemaker Craig Larson will talk about the grape varieties that are grown at Callaway, the terroir, the grapevine and it’s growing cycle, trellising and upcoming treatments that will be done during this phase of the growth cycle.  Then it’s back into the winery where guests will taste one unfiltered tank sample and several finished white wines while learning specific tasting techniques used to evaluate wines such as color, clarity, aroma, taste, body and finish.

$88.50 Per Seminar
Legacy Club Member Price – $79.65 Per Seminar
Prices are per person, plus tax

Click here to purchase tickets.

Cougar Vineyard & Winery

Live Music in the Barrel Room

2:00p-5:00p

April 7th Don Brennan – Acoustical guitarist

April 14th Leo Gosselin -Playing the rare stringed instrument Chapman Stick Touchboard.

April 21st Shaula Walko – Steel drums island vibe

April 22nd Don Brennan – Special time 12-4p

April 28th Will Sumner – Smooth jazz

Europa Village

Guilty Conscience Band

Friday, April 13

6:30p-9:30p

A high energy, interactive band with a collection of experienced, diverse musicians who can perform virtually all styles of music, including classic rock, country, jazz standard, dance covers, Broadway, R&B and all points in between, Guilty Conscience is sure to fill our venue with audible delight that will pair perfectly with Europa Village wines.

“La Vie Parisienne”

April 18 & 19

6:30p-9:00p

$85 per person / Societe $75.60 per person

The cozy atmosphere of The Cave at Europa Village be transformed into “La Vie Parisienne” a night where the food prepared by Chef Dean and accompanied with wines perfectly paired by our Sommelier Stefano while beautiful music sung by our talented staff and performers throughout will be reminiscent of an evening in Paris.

Call or Email for reservations

951-216-3380 / events@europavillage.com

Falkner Winery

Easter Champagne Brunch

Sunday, April 8

Cost is $49.95 per person plus tax (Wine Club members and their guests are $44.95+).  Children 3-10 are $19 plus tax (Wine Club $15+) and free for children under 3.

Champagne will be part of the meal along with other beverage options including discounted wine by the glass. Live entertainment will also be provided.  Special Easter gifts will be given to all children upon arrival.  Reservations should be made by calling 951-676-8231 ext. 1 or online at their website of www.falknerwinery.com.  Reservations are available from 10 am–4pm.

Free Jazz on Sundays

Performances will be 3 hours beginning at noon and going until 3:00pm and be held in their outside lawn area adjacent to the tasting room.   As the name indicates, every Sunday afternoon live jazz performances will be available to winery customers at no charge and with no reservations required. Chairs and tables will be provided for the audience.  Freshly prepared barbequed food and wine by the glass, bottle, or carafe are available for each performance.

Frangipani Winery

Live music

April 21 & 22 from 1:00p-5:00p

Performance by Michael Chain

Longshadow Winery Ranch & Vineyard

Bonfire Saturday Nights begin 4/14/12.  Live music, dancing & wine from 6-10pm.

April 14: B502′s

April 21: White Lightnin’

Click here for the Longshadow event calendar.  To RSVP, call (951) 587-6221.

Miramonte Winery

Live Music in April

April 6 Mater Splinter & the Shredders – (7-10PM)

April 7 Bluefish – (7-10PM)

April 13 JD Priest – (7-10PM)

April 14 Shoot 4 tuezday – (7-10PM)

April 20 Billy Watson – (7-10PM)

April 21 4019′s – (7-10PM)

April 27 Steroflux – (7-10PM)

April 28 Missy Andersen - (7-10PM)

*April 19 Collekt – Casual local meet up open to all creative professionals (7-9PM)

Mount Palomar Winery

Bistro Friday’s Live Entertainment
Friday’s in April
6-10pm (last dinner seating at 9:00pm)

Click here for the full entertainment schedule!

Ponte Winery

Easter Brunch

Sunday, April 8

Seatings are at 11, 12, 1:30 and 2:30

$65 per adult, $25 per child. Discount for wine club members
Easter Brunch at Ponte! Join us for brunch in the Vineyard Pavilion. Meet the Easter Bunny, send the kids on an Easter Egg hunt and enjoy mimosas, Moscato, Bellinis, Rose Spumante and Grape Sparklers.

Space is limited.  Click here for more info and to purchase tickets.

Team Ponte Kick-off Meeting

Wednesday, April 25

5:30p – Join us Wednesday, April 25th to kick off a season of giving! In August, Ponte Associates, Wine Club Members and members of the community will come together to run San Diego’s AFC 1/2 Marathon. Come find out how you can help raise funds for Rancho Damacitas, a local home for abused and neglected children while training, making friends and drinking a little wine along the way! Snacks, wine and raffle prizes will be available!

Robert Renzoni Vineyards

Robert Renzoni Winery’s 4th Birthday Celebration

April 14th & 15th

Come celebrate with us!  Live music on Saturday by Rachel Stark & on Sunday by Lawrence Spector

For more information, please call 951.302.VINO (8466)

South Coast Resort Spa & Winery

Champagne Easter Buffet Brunch
Sunday, April 8
10:00a to 4:00p
$42.00 Per Adult Plus Tax & Gratuity (Includes 2 Complimentary Glasses of Champagne) and $19.00 Per Child (Ages 5 to 10) Plus Tax & Gratuity.

Bring the whole family to South Coast Winery for our very special Champagne Easter Buffet Brunch in the Vineyard Rose Restaurant. Enjoy a scrumptious buffet brunch prepared by Executive Sous Chef, Mike Terry, voted Inland Empire’s Best Chef, and our Award-Winning sparkling wines. Take pictures with the Easter Bunny who will be hosting Easter Egg hunts for children on the hour starting at 11 a.m. Visit SouthCoastWinery.com to view our menu. To Make a Reservation, please call (951) 491-8077 or for more information visit, SouthCoastWinery.com.

Going Green at the Grapeseed Spa

As the vines are greening up here at South Coast Winery,why not enjoy the ‘Going Green’ specialized service that is available for the month of April at the GrapeSeed Spa. Enjoy a 50 minute, full body ‘therapeutic’ massage with an exotic blend of oils that are infused with Green Tea, Mint, Ivy extract, Aloe and Arnica. Nourish the skin and revive sore, tired muscles and joints with this ‘Going Green’ massage.

Book Now For Only $105 Per Person

(Regular Value $135 per person)

Call (866) 994-6379 EXT. 7280; SouthCoastWinery.com

Down To Earth Winemakers Dinner

April 21st, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.

Join us on Earth Day for the Down to Earth Winemakers Dinner and to celebrate our Inland Empire’s Best Restaurant, Best Chef and Best Spa of 2012 wins! South Coast Winery is participating in the Wine Institute’s “California Wines: Down to Earth” campaign during April to celebrate the state’s commitment to sustainable winegrowing and winemaking practices such as conserving energy, water and soil, recycling and composting.  To coincide with Earth Day, award-winning chef Mike Terry has created an eco-conscious five-course menu using fresh vegetables grown using earth-friendly practices in our Carter Estate gardens.  This special dinner will be exquisitely paired with award-winning South Coast wines selected by our winemakers.

$100 per person, tickets on sale at www.SouthCoastWinery.com or call (866) 994-6379 EXT.7210 to purchase today!

Jana Kramer Live in Concert

Go Country 105FM and Rhythm on the Vine present sensational country music singer and songwriter Jana Kramer Live in Concert at the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa in Temecula on April 21, 2012 at 8:30 p.m. The CW’s “One Tree Hill” star is lighting up country music with her emotionally moving songs and sweet, country vocals, already selling nearly 200,000 digital singles in less than 6 months. Jana boldly graces country music with a fresh, new sound and powerful new music. Tickets starting at $19.99 are on sale now at www.cegseats.com or call (213) 742-6960.

Blessing of the Vines and Earth Day Wine Blending Competition

April 22nd, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.

In a tradition that dates back centuries to European vineyards, come celebrate the joys of Spring – the budding of the vines, the anticipation of a fruitful crop – at the Official Blessing of the Vines & Earth Day Wine Blending Competition. Not only do our Winemakers exercise eco-conscious winemaking practices, South Coast Winery is the only winery in Temecula to use divine assistance during the growing season! Join us for an authentic processional tour through the vineyards followed by live music, dancing, a Texas Country BBQ Cookout, with of course, our award-winning wines!

Then, progress from novice to Honorary Winemaker during our highly anticipated, Earth Day Wine Blending Competition!  Using the fruit of our earth-friendly labor, winemakers John McPherson Javier Flores will coach teams on the “how to’s” for creating a one-of-a-kind blend.   Each team to mix, match and co-create from the single varietals into the perfect blend to present for judging.  Experience firsthand what fun our Winemakers have creating new varietals for our award-winning collection.  Winning team takes home the Golden Prize!  No experience necessary. Limited Availability. Must purchase a ticket to the Official Blessing of the Vines for eligibility. Registration begins on-site, Sunday, April 22nd at 3:45 p.m. First come first serve. Must be 21 or older to enter.

$45 per person, tickets on sale at www.SouthCoastWinery.com or call (866) 994-6379 EXT.7210 to purchase today!

Thornton Winery

Live Music on Fridays

Friday, April 6

6:00p

Performance by Leo Gosselin & The Stick

Wilson Creek Winery

Easter Brunch

April 8

10a to 4p

Creekside Grille

$49.95 per person • 59.95 per person unlimited champagne • $12.95 children under 12

Reservations: 951.699.9463

Celebrate Easter with family at an unforgettable buffet style brunch that draws from Executive Chef Steve Stawinski’s intriguing menu of springtime wine country classics. Enjoy live piano music by Frank Marter while our animal friends fill the courtyard once again at the annual petting zoo.

Reality Rally Opening Reception

April 13

6p to 10p

Creekside Grille

$25.00 per person for an amazing evening. All food and 1 free wine ticket included.

Reality Rally is a three-day weekend event intended to raise funds for Michelle’s Place, a local breast cancer resource center, while highlighting the unique locations and features our community has to offer.

Friday evening is an adult ticketed Celebrity Reception with the Stars at Wilson Creek Winery from 6pm-10pm. Wilson Creek Wines, local signature foods and a hot air balloon tether ride
(weather permitting)

Purchase tickets: www.realityrally.com