Napa Valley locals are frequently, and repeatedly, exposed to every kind of wine experience – from winemaker dinners to elaborate events and private tastings (yes, we know how lucky we are). But this often leaves us, just a touch, jaded. So when I find myself at an event, or at a winery, where I’m truly impressed, I love to spread the word. On that note, there is nothing better you could possibly do to support your favorite wineries, than to spread the word as far and wide as you can (btw, that’s still no excuse not to buy wine if you have a good time and dig the flavors). With that in mind, I’m going to give you a short list of somewhat obscure wineries in Napa Valley that you simply must visit. And then I’ll tell you why Fantesca happens to be my current favorite... View: VinRoc + Keever Personality: Tres Sabores + Canard Old School / Best Pinot: School House Tasting room: Page + John Anthony Off the Beaten Path: Gargiulo + Fisher + Whetstone Feel: Larkmead + Hunnicutt Wine: McCully + Arkenstone Winemaker: Jade Barrett (Ladera) + Kirk Venge (Venge) Icing: Palmaz + Keller Estate I’d heard whispers and rumors about Fantesca for a number of years before I was actually exposed to the juice. By then, I knew that the famous Heidi Barrett made the wine, and that just about everyone had heard of Fantesca, was impressed and willing to show it, but had actually never been there. So when I learned, during a friendly game of rugby in St. Helena, that the guy who had just scored against my team owned Fantesca, I thought, I am NEVER going there. That sentiment faded quickly when my team scored, and I asked Duane if I could come up and check Fantesca out. When I arrived, I was impressed by the people, view, and wine (killer!)... Then, we walked through the cave and, as if coming through the armoire to Narnia, I saw the magic that everyone was talking about... I suggest you do the same – it’s what Napa Valley is about. 4 INK napa's treasures By Ian White Images by Lee Keiper (left) mysicpics.com LUNCH • DINNER • DESSERT • TEQUILA With live music, a massive tequila bar and a menu inspired by the street food of Mexico and the farm-fresh bounty of the Napa Valley, La Condesa provides a one-of-a-kind experience for locals and tourists alike. Live shows start around 9pm. Check www.lacondesa.com/napa for details FEATURED BANDS May 18 – Sean Garvey and the Western Bleeding Hearts May 24 – OneFrequency May 31 – Noema June 1 – Annette Summersett June 14 – Opus Funk 1320 Main Street , St Helena, Ca 94574 707.967.8111 • facebook.com/lacondesanapavalley twitter.com/lacondesanapa
NVLife_MayJune_2013
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