Simple Hedonisms

Harvest is behind us, next week is one of celebration, hopefully some relaxation, and indulging in Simple Hedonisms – why not kick the week off with some Wine Country Festivities.

Holiday in Carneros
November 21 and 22, 2009

My top pick for the weekend: The 22nd annual Holiday in Carneros is November 21st and 22nd from 10 am until 4 pm. It is an exciting winery open house event featuring more than 20 wineries in Carneros. Each will open its doors and invite visitors to join in on a variety of activities. Wineries will feature food and wine pairings, live music, art or craft shows, special tastings (barrel, reserve, library, new release), discounts or special pricing, family activities and more.

Admission is only $40.00 per person and is valid for both days of the event.  Purchase tickets by clicking here, or simply pay your “admission” at any participating winery on either day of the event. You’ll receive a Holiday in Carneros logo glass and access to all the fun! (Some activities at some wineries may have additional fees, but all participating wineries have generous offerings for Holiday in Carneros participants at no cost above the price of admission.) Proceeds from Holiday in Carneros fund scholarships at Santa Rosa Junior College and Napa Valley College.

Wineries expected to participate are Adastra, Anaba, Bonneau Wines, Ceja Vineyards, Cline Cellars, Cuvaison, Enkidu Wines, Etude Wines, Folio Winemakers’ Studio, Jacuzzi Family Winery, Larson Family Winery, Larson Family @ Cornerstone, Mantra @ Grange Sonoma, McKenzie-Mueller Vineyards & Winery, Parmalee-Hill Wines, Robledo Family Winery, Roshambo, Schug Carneros Estate Winery, Talisman Wines, Tin Barn Vineyards, Truchard Vineyards and Ty Caton Vineyards.

White Barn Winter Fair 3-Day Event, St. Helena

Local Artists will present their wares at the White Barn Winter Fare:

The White Barn has decided to revive an old tradition and to once again hold its beloved White Barn Winter Fair. A variety of talented local artisans and craftsmen will join together at the White Barn Winter Fair to benefit the Arts Council Napa Valley.

The event will feature a wide selection of unique handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind creations. Visitors will find everything from the unusual to the unique sure to fit every taste and budget. Shoppers may purchase beautiful handmade jewelry, cards, fine art originals and prints, wooden cutting boards, hand blown glass ware, holiday floral designs, textiles, ceramics, artisan food, potions, striking recycled items, and so much more!

Preview Night, Friday November 20th will run from 5-8pm and include wine, a winter soup, dessert and light music. Friday’s suggested donation $10-15 directly benefits the Arts Council Napa Valley. Preview attendees will have the opportunity to purchase fine goods in advance of the general public while they enjoy a festive evening.

Just in time for holiday gift shopping, decorating and entertaining, you won’t want to miss this wonderful event! Visit the Fair on Saturday and Sunday November 21 & 22 from 10am to 5pm. Free admission and plenty of free parking.

November 20:5-8pm – Wine Reception Benefit / $10-15 suggested donation
November 21 & 22:10am-5pm

Holiday Hors d’oeuvres Party – Sbragia Family Vineyards – Dry Creek/Geyserville

Celebrate the holidays with Sbragia Family Vineyards at their 2^nd Annual Holiday Hors d’oeuvres Party.  Taste great food paired beautifully with Sbragia wines, while listening to music by Dave Badilla.  Take home the recipes so you can be ready to create great appetizers for your own party.  Space is limited, RSVP today!

Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Center Grand Opening

Now that I spend 1/2 my time in the Portland area, why not make mention of the occasional event there!

Join in celebrating the Grand Opening of the Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Center!

Complimentary tasting and admission for: Grand Opening November 21^st and 22^nd from 10am to 7pm and Thanksgiving Weekend November 27^th, 28^th and 29^th

Willamette Valley Vineyards Wine Center, 300 NE Third Street, McMinnville, OR 97128 503.883.9012

We have much to celebrate – Cheers!