Solbar

I promise you, they don't pay me to advertise for them..... BUT..... the Solbar in Calistoga is so good I can't seem to stay away! I know, I really do go in for the thin crust Maitake mushroom and 10-hour onion pizza, but I also try something new each time too! This time we tried a goat cheese and artichoke (confit) wrap that was amazing..... Oh, and we decided to end the meal with the Solbar's donut holes.... with coffee of course! actually, I slipped a bit of Fernet in - helps with digestion! I promise you will not be disappointed in anything that comes out of that kitchen.... Hi and thanks to all of you at the Solbar! Bradley Wasserman, Restaurant Manager and Sommelier is always there with a smile and a warm hello as well as Marcus and Adrienne.... can't forget to mention The sous chef's, Zach and Gustavo and Executive Chef Brandon Sharp..... Make the Solbar a definate stop on your journey to North Napa (Calistoga).
Thanks again for such great food and exceptional service!
www.solagecalistoga.com

Terra Valentine

I realize that I am writing this after Valentines day, BUT.... Terra Valentine celebrates Valentine's day all year long! Terra Valentine's wines are based on romance and love and isn't that what February 14th is known for? Heidi Hufnagel, pictured to the left in Terra Valentine's tasting room, was such a joy to speak to! She told us of the long history that Terra Valentine has and the amazing wines that they make! We tasted a beautiful Viognier, a Sangiovese Super Tuscan blend called Amore and some pretty fantastic Spring Mountain Cabernet's. I vowed I wasn't going to buy anymore Cabernet's BUT..... and there always is a but..... I couldn't help it! They offer large format bottles also... Its not just about a sit down tasting its about an experience and Heidi and the folks at Terra Valentine want you to enjoy them, there beautiful grounds and their wines your way! If your on Spring Mountain call them... they would love to see you!

www.terravalentine.com

Charbay Distillery and Winery

Words can't describe the feeling you have as you drive up the winding road that leads up Spring Mountain. Amidst the fog there are tall trees and big rocks covered by moss and very few cars. As we pulled into the long drive that leads you to Charbay, the intercom answered with "come on in, if there is a white dog by your car when you park, just don't let him into it!" There was a little white dog (Snifter) and he did try to get into the car..... Charbay is owned by 12th Generation Master Distiller, Miles Karakasevic (try saying that 5 times!). His son, Marko is the 13th Generation of Master Distillers, pictured above pointing out a small version of the distillation process. We were so lucky to be in the middle of the tasting with Mark Raymond, Charbay's Retail Sales Manager, when Marko walked in. Mark had his hands full with Fran (Baldacci Family Vineyards), Manette (Cork distributor), Cathy (wine and spirits taste tester) and myself. We had all kinds of questions for him and Marko walked in just in time to tell us all about the amazing beginnings of Charbay..... It is an absolute must see and experience that I dare you partake in! How does one become a master distiller? Check out Charbay and they will be happy to share some of their secrets with you! From Tequila to Grappa to Apertif's to beautiful wine.... Charbay has it all!

www.charbay.com