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| May 2004
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Spotlight
Geyser Peak Winery
"World-Class Wines"
 Geyser Peak Winery is driven to produce world-class wines. Founded in 1880 by Augustus Quitzow, one of Sonoma County's pioneer winemakers, the original winery was built in Alexander Valley's historic resort town of Geyserville in 1882. Today, Alexander Valley is arguably one of the most celebrated winegrowing regions in the world, known in particular for the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon, and Geyser Peak Winery still stands in the same spot, looking out across the rolling valley to Geyser Peak itself.
Spend a delightful afternoon with the winery's knowledgeable and friendly tasting staff who are happy to pour samples from the winery's portfolio of critically acclaimed wines. Guided by well-known winemaker Daryl Groom, Geyser Peak Winery typically wins more than eighty - yes that's eighty - Gold Medals in prestigious wine competitions each year. Step up to the Reserve Tasting Room, where, for an additional fee, you can select from several flights of spectacular, limited-production wines, many of which are available only at the winery.
Like the thermal hot springs which once drew visitors to Geyserville in another era, today, Geyser Peak Winery has become a compelling destination for visitors and a cause for renown in its own right.
info@geyserpeakwinery.com
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Spotlight
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
"Come Smell the Roses!"
 Holiday Inn Sebastopol invites you to stay with us in the tranquil beauty of West Sonoma County, a fun and relaxed place to stop to smell the roses and sip the wine. Everything is blooming in the wine country, so come for a Secret Garden Tour, the Rose Parade, Cinco de Mayo Festivals or to enjoy a "Mothers Day of Wine and Roses" at Korbel Champagne Cellars.
At our Holiday Inn Express in Sebastopol you will find spacious, well-appointed accommodations convenient to all of these attractions and events. Complimentary continental breakfast, free local calls and wireless internet connectivity, in-room coffee makers and refrigerators, outdoor pool and spa, fitness room, guest coin-laundry, and a friendly staff to accommodate you. It is the perfect place to stay as you revel in spring in Sonoma County!
Call (707)-829-6677 to reserve a room at the Inn, or reserve on line now.
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Spotlight
WINECOUNTRY
"The Essential Link to Our Lifestyle"
 WINECOUNTRY is the authority on providing local and insider information along with key visitor information to the Wine Country. WINECOUNTRY is on the beat on where to eat, where to shop, where to stay, where to play, who's coming to town, what's hot, and just what's happening in Wine Country!
Published in a unique large format (12" x 20") in full, four-color print on high-gloss paper stock, WINECOUNTRY is designed for the reader who wants more than the usual visitor's guide -- one who's looking for "local" information of what's new and what's going on. As essential as a map, WINECOUNTRY is the ultimate tool for planning a trip like an insider instead of as a tourist. WINECOUNTRY is for travelers visiting for the first time, or for connoisseurs who visit throughout the year -- anyone who wants to stay abreast on what's new in Wine Country.
WINECOUNTRY will be published six times a year, with the premier issue launching July 1. Subscribe now and receive a "free" issue!
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Vision Cellars • Family
Friendly Fun in the Wine Country • Wine Country Featured Destination
Wine Country Recipe • Wine
Country Events • WineCountry.com Drawing
• Top of page
Vision Cellars
 Mac's Vision
Mac McDonald is a wine country original, a man whose
wines are inspiring and whose story is compelling. Son of a Texas Moonshine
maker, Mac grew up around distilled spirits and fruit wines, but it
was the taste of Burgundy wines offered by his Dad’s friends that made
an impression. Later, Mac followed his passion for Pinot Noir, which
he ultimately put into winemaking practice in the 1990’s. Today his
awesome Pinots and other wines are offered in some of the finest establishments
in the California wine country and around the USA, and deserve your
attention!
In Texas, Mac’s basketball coach encouraged him to follow his dream,
knowing that for wine, California was the place to be. Mac moved here,
and while working in the utility industry for 32 years, pursued his
wine passion in his spare time. He got to know legendary Italian winemakers
in the wine country north of San Francisco Bay, who inspired and encouraged
him. Before long, he started producing small lots of wine in his garage.
His wines were popular with his friends, and eventually Mac realized
his ultimate dream, starting Vision
Cellars with his wife Lil. Investing
just $82,000 in savings, they released their first vintage in 1997.
It is one thing for the wine industry to say that it wants to appeal
to new markets, but it is most satisfying to hear that Mac, an African-American,
credits a variety of well-known wine country names, such as Ash, Parducci,
Caymus and Mazocco as having nurtured the career of this inimitable
wine artisan in significant ways. Mac has repaid the industry many
times over, traveling around the country frequently and taking his
message of wine and enjoyment to unique places, for instance his now
legendary annual pourings in Harlem.
 Mac and Lil make their home in suburban Windsor, where they have what must be
the largest lot in the subdivision. Rows of grapevines complement gorgeous
gardens and decks to complete their backyard mini-estate. Here legendary
barbeque events fill with movers and shakers from all walks of life,
not just wine and food. Mac’s fans jockey for invitations and travel
across the country to experience his passion. As always wine flows
along with Mac’s engaging stories, with new ones in the making.
“It’s about sharing,” Mac says about his
wines, and he excels at it! Mac started making a sweet Riesling to
make his mother Elbessie happy, when he discovered that she was adding
sugar to his elegant Pinot Noir! She now drinks Pinot too — perhaps
the most personalized lesson in developing a new market that I’ve
heard.
While Mac’s personality attracts new aficionados, anyone who loves
wine and Pinot Noir in particular owes it to their self to explore
his unique wines. Currently producing over 2000 cases of wine per year,
Vision Cellars excels with these handmade, artisan wines.
 The 2000
Pinot Noir ($35) uses fruit from Northern Petaluma,
and recently received 90 points from the Wine Enthusiast. It has a
lovely nose and wonderful fruit, which suggests much more Russian River
character than Carneros. The soon to be released 2002 ($35) was richer
and lingers mellifluously, and deservedly took a Gold Medal at the
San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Mac also continues to produce
a white wine each year, changing the blending as he explores the potential
of different fruit sources—his 2003 wine is comprised of 65% St. Helena
Sauvignon Blanc and 35% St. Lucia Pinot Gris. Mac’s wines consistently
score highly in competition and reviews.
Vision Cellars wines are thinly distributed, but can be ordered direct
from Mac and Lil. Visit the Vision Cellars web site at www.visioncellars.com.
Mac is happy to make it and celebrates sharing it. You’ll want to take
this jubilant man’s vision to heart as you enjoy his marvelous wines!
Article submitted by Taylor Poff
Vision Cellars • Family
Friendly Fun in the Wine Country • Wine Country
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Family Friendly Fun in the Wine Country
Kid
Tested Activities for Family Enjoyment – Part I
 Looking
to entertain the younger set when you visit Northern California wine
country? Most of us know from experience that wine tasting just isn’t
the right ticket to occupy the kids. Here is a series of kid-tested
activities for family enjoyment:
A special favorite of the younger set, Sonoma
Traintown is
“the most well developed scale railroad in the Americas”. Set on ten
acres, over a mile of tracks pass picturesque scale bridges, tunnels,
and waterfalls. The petting zoo is also popular with the youngsters,
and vintage amusement rides complete the package, with a carousel,
restored Ferris wheel and airplane ride. Traintown is open
10-5 daily June 1 through Labor Day, Fri-Sun and most major holidays
at 20264 Broadway - Highway 12, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 938-3912. The
website is descriptive and offers a map and directions. www.sonomatraintown.com.
 For
those who like science and fossils, wine country abounds with flora,
fauna and natural wonders. One
of the remnants of the dramatic volcanic activity that occurred in
the area over 3 million years ago is the Calistoga
Geyser.
This geyser is named "Old Faithful" because
it steams exactly every 40 minutes. It is the most precise geyser
in the world. (707) 942-6463 for more information. www.oldfaithfulgeyser.com.
Not far from the Calistoga Geyser, The
Petrified Forest is also worth
a visit. Millions of years ago, a forest of giant redwood trees became
fixed in stone…the forest was literally blown down by a volcanic explosion.
This touristic landmark was discovered in 1870, with a private park
established in 1910, and is a registered California Historical Landmark.
This legendary activity is remembered by one Winecountry.com staffer
both in her youth, and taking her son years later as a mom.
The preserved trees visible are as long as 105 feet and
8 feet in diameter. A short hike will allow you to see all the major
tree exposures in the park. A one-hour meadow hike, done most Sundays
at 2 pm, leads to views of Mt St Helena and a white slope called the
Ash Fall. Eight major and four minor displays are available on the
main walk. An excellent walking tour of the forest is here: www.sonoma.edu/geology/wright/PFguide.html The
Petrified Forest is
located just 8 miles from the town of Santa Rosa, just outside the
town of Calistoga, at 4100 Petrified Forest Road. Open daily 9 to 6,
winter hours 9 to 5. (707) 942-6667.
 In Napa, take a look at Napa
River Adventures. Regularly scheduled two-hour cruises
for present sweeping vistas of the mountains and vineyards of the
Napa Valley, along with a brief narrative on various wildlife and
local history. You can bring along a bottle of wine, and enjoy
exploring nature in comfort. Along the river one can observe various
forms of flora and fauna such as Great Blue Herons, Osprey, Egrets,
Kingfishers, River Otters, Turtles and more. Enjoy a constantly
changing and evolving scene as you travel through the vineyards
in the valley or down to the saltwater marshes bird preserve.Canoe
and kayak rentals are also available here for the older folks.
Children must be at least 5 years of age to enjoy the standard
cruise. www.napariveradventures.com (707)
224-9080.
If it is living redwood giants that appeal, Armstrong
Redwoods State Reserve near Guerneville will please
and overwhelm. The stand here is as magnificent as the better known
(and more crowded) Muir Woods in Marin County.The majestic beauty
of this Grove is a living reminder of the magnificent, primeval
redwood forest that covered much of the area before logging operations
began during the 19th century. Some of these trees have survived
for over 2000 years and tower above 350 feet.
The reserve includes a visitor center, large outdoor
amphitheater, self-guided nature trails, and a variety of picnic
facilities. While you can drive into the park, the best way to experience
the dramatic effect of the towering redwoods is to park in the lot
at the entrance and walk in for free.
There is also a campground at Austin Creek State Recreation
Area, adjacent to the park. The entrance is located at 17020 Armstrong
Woods Road, just a few miles north from Guerneville, (707) 869-2015.
Finally, Sonoma County has a rich and diverse offering of Sonoma County
Parks and Recreation sites. An excellent listing is offered here: www.parks.sonoma.net/index.htm
There is certainly a lot to keep youngsters of all ages busy in wine
country. Whatever you decide to do, enjoy!
Stay tuned for Part Two of Family Friendly Fun in Wine Country!
Article submitted by Taylor Poff
Vision Cellars • Family
Friendly Fun in the Wine Country • Wine Country
Featured Destination
Wine Country Recipe • Wine Country
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Featured Sponsor
Wine Country Featured Destination
EOS Estate Winery in the premier
winegrowing region of Paso Robles
 In Greek mythology, “EOS” was the name given to the “Goddess of the
dawn” and legend has it that every morning she lifted the sun over
the horizon to begin a new day. EOS also serves as the inspiration
for the winemaking philosophy of EOS
Estate Winery.
Located in the premier winegrowing region of Paso Robles,
the EOS Estate Winery has become a leading producer of award-winning
varietal wines and a premier destination spot for travelers. The spectacular
104,000 square foot Romanesque facility was modeled after Montecassino,
an Italian monastery, and is surrounded by 700 acres of beautiful estate
vineyards.
All EOS Estate wines are handcrafted by Senior Winemaker Leslie Melendez.
Leslie’s focus is on producing food-friendly wines that emphasize balance,
elegance, and pure fruit flavor. These ideals guide every aspect of
the wine’s production, from the planting and development of the vines,
to the utilization of the most advanced winemaking equipment and techniques
available, to the selection and use of the world’s finest French and
American oak barrels for fermentation. The result has been that EOS
has become one of California’s fastest growing wine brands. The Estate
Bottled EOS portfolio includes Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Merlot, and two stunning dessert
wines; a Late Harvest Moscato called “Tears of Dew”, and a vintage
dated Estate Zinfandel Port, both with award-winning packaging.
 Available
since 1997, EOS wines have already garnered many significant awards.
The 1997 EOS Paso Robles Zinfandel was named “Best Zinfandel of California,”
earning 94 points and a Gold Medal at the1999 California State Fair.
At the 2001 New World International Wine Competition, the 1998 EOS
Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon received “Best of Class” and a Gold
Medal. The 1997 Petite Sirah, 1997 Sauvignon Blanc, and 1999 “Tears
of Dew” Moscato all took home Best of Region awards from the California
State Fair. The 1999 EOS Reserve Petite Sirah won seven gold medals
from prestigious competitions worldwide, and respected American wine
critic Dan Berger has called the 2000 EOS Reserve Petite Sirah “Exceptional.”
 Recently, the EOS line has expanded with the introduction of the EOS
“Cupa Grandis” Grand Barrel Reserve program. Featuring grapes sourced
from the top EOS Estate Chardonnay and Petite Sirah vineyard blocks,
the wines are handcrafted using the world’s finest cooperage. The Cupa
Grandis Chardonnay is fermented and aged in 100% new Louis-Latour French
oak, considered the finest in the world, and the Petite Sirah uses
a selection of barrels from specific forests in France. In addition
to a bevy of 90 plus scores and accolades, the 2001 Cupa Grandis Petite
Sirah was recently given a 92 point score in Wine Enthusiast magazine.
All of these world-class wines can be tasted in the expansive EOS tasting
room known as the “Mediterranean Marketplace.” Visitors can enjoy old
world ambiance while surveying the unique, carefully selected collection
of gourmet foods, fine gifts and a surprising racing car exhibit. Beyond
the tasting room there are lovely rose gardens, stately Italian architecture,
and lush picnic areas to explore, as well as fascinating, self-guided
tours of the wine production facility.
Website: eosvintage.com
Vision Cellars • Family
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Featured Destination
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Featured Sponsor
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E-Postcards - Greetings From The Wine Country!
Do you find you can't stop reading email, even while on holiday in the Wine Country? Or perhaps you are a virtual visitor, planning for that glorious day you find yourself among the vines, discovering treasures in the cellars and tasting rooms! While online send a Wine Country e-postcard to friends and family! Visit WineCountry.com E-Postcards and build a postcard from five beautiful photographs and your own personal message.
Now you won't return from vacation before your "Wish You Were Here" postcards arrive!
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Wine Country Recipe
 Basic
Nocino – Italian Walnut Liqueur
Recipe by Thomas Oden,
co-owner and chef of Taverna Santi in Geyserville.
31 green or immature walnuts, cut into quarters
1 liter 76 percent to 95 percent grain alcohol
600 to 800 grams of sugar, dissolved in 1/4 liter of
boiling water and cooled
Place walnuts and alcohol in a food grade plastic, glass jar, or
ceramic crock, cover it with plastic wrap and a lid, and place it
in a cool, dry place where it can stay for many months. Lightly agitate
and swirl the container once every day.
After four to five months, strain the solution through cheesecloth, or
a non-reactive fine mesh filter -- even a coffee filter works. Add sugar
solution and pour contents into a thoroughly cleaned oak barrel (see note).
Age for six to seven months -- it should have at least one year aging time.
After one year, transfer to a sterilized glass bottle -- Nocino will keep
for up to a year.
Makes 1 liter of 100-proof liqueur.
Note: To clean a new oak barrel, fill with water and sodium percarbonate, available
at wine or beer making supply stores. Repeat a couple of times, then rinse thoroughly.
Salute!
Wine Country Featured Events
June 5 & 6 and June 12 & 13 -- Santa
Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Vintners'
Festival 2004 – A Taste of the Mountains
This two-weekend event includes attractions such as tasting of special wines,
food, music, art exhibits, winery tours and barrel tasting. This is your best
opportunity to purchase the great wines this region has to offer. June 5th
and 6th (Eastern Side), June 12th and 13th (Western Side)
Fee: $20 in advance, $25 at the door Time: Saturday
and Sunday both weekends Phone
Number: For reservations or more information, contact the
Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association at (831) 479-WINE (9463)
www.scmwa.com/VintnersFestival.htm
For a complete calendar
of events by region, visit: Gold
Country, Mendocino,
Monterey,
Napa Valley, San
Luis Obispo, Santa
Barbara, Santa
Cruz, Sonoma
County, Temecula,
Virginia
Vision Cellars • Family
Friendly Fun in the Wine Country • Wine Country
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Wine Country Recipe • Wine Country
Events • WineCountry.com Drawing • Top
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WineCountry.com Info
WineCountry.com
Drawing:
Win a Discover Calistoga Package for Two!*
Enter to win, and see for yourself all Calistoga
has to offer.
Enjoy a one-night's stay at Carlin Country Cottages.
This Irish Inn will accommodate your individual needs from bungalows
with private mineral spas for two to a one-bedroom suite just fitting
for a family of four, all within walking distance of Calistoga’s many
fine restaurants and world famous spas. www.carlincottages.com
AND
Golden Haven Hot Springs Resort "Come and experience
the magic of the healing mineral waters and rejuvenating spa treatments!" Enjoy
either a Mud Bath for two persons at Golden Haven Spa or
a Body Mud Treatment for two persons at Lincoln Avenue Spa, "where
pampering is a way of life."
www.goldenhaven.com
www.lincolnavenuespa.com
(*some restrictions apply)
***No purchase necessary. Must be at least 21 years old
to enter. Carlin Country Cottages gift certificates must be used Sunday
through Thursday. Golden Haven Spa/Linconln Avenue Spa certificates
valid everyday except Saturdays & Holiday
periods. Expires 10/1/04. Only one entry per person permitted. Winner
will be selected May 17, 2004 by random drawing. Winner will be notified
by email. Employees of Freerun Technologies are ineligible. Void where
prohibited by law.
Click here to enter
this drawing! (Please note: If you are already
subscribed to the newsletter, you are automatically entered
in this drawing.)
The Winner of this Drawing will be announced on The
Winner's Page after May 17.
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