According to the Mendocino Winegrape & Wine Commission, the following varietals are grown in Mendocino County: White:Arneis, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Cortese, French Colombard, Gewurztraminer, Marsanne, Muscat Blanc, Muscat Orange, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Roussanne, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Musque, Semillon, Tocai Friulano, Viogner, White Riesling, Other Whites Red:Aglianico, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignane, Carmenere, Charbono, [...]

Most journeys to California’s wine country begin with a rental car heading north out of the San Francisco airport. But for a change of pace, head 40 miles east toward Stockton and stop at Wente Vineyards in the Livermore Valley. Here you’ll find a distinctly different kind of vista than, say, Napa Valley. It’s noticeably warm and decidedly [...]

This recipe comes from Maker’s Mark Bourbon and a menu of fall/winter dishes paired with Maker’s cocktails. I honestly loved the salad but didn’t care much for the cocktail pairing… too sweet and apple schnapps-y. Try just a simple Maker’s on the rocks to go with! Recipe: Salads: Maker’s Mark, Blue Cheese & Spinach Salad [...]

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it here again — people who save bubbly for the holidays are amateurs. Sparkling wine is great all year round — food friendly, happy, delicious, refreshing stuff. But since I do tend to want extrabubbles this time of year, I hereby submit to the cries for a holiday [...]

Here are two super-affordable and tasty wines from Robert Mondavi Private Selection — both pass my “could I drink this at a gallery opening” test! Robert Mondavi Private Selection 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Monterey County ($11). Here’s a nice surprise — loads of juicy lime, a touch of grapefruit, and a clean, refreshing finish. Ready to drink [...]

One of the best ways to warm up a cold winter night is with a table full of good friends and an array of hearty, delicious foods paired with just the right wines. Here’s an easy menu that will get you out of the kitchen and in with your guests in no time flat. The [...]

Looking to stock up your holiday bar? Try any of these $15-and-under white wines that deliver beyond their modest pricetags: Husch Vineyards 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Mendocino La Ribera Vineyard ($14). Tangerine, melon, lime zest — all comes together in an appealing wine that offers nice complexity at this price point. Ready to drink now and [...]