Raking around New Leaf for an interesting wine to write about, I came across a Ridge Vineyards red, the Geyserville 2014 ($38).
One of the better-known wineries in California, Ridge’s wines are shipped far and wide, and founder Paul Draper (who announced his retirement last year at the age of 80) is a rock star in the wine industry. An event we attended recently in Washington D.C. included a reception at the St. Regis Hotel, where Ridge Vineyards’ wine was on prominent display.
The 2014 Geyserville was hand-harvested from sustainably grown grapes in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, aged in oak barrels, and bottled in January 2016. A blend of Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, and Mataro (Mourvedre), the wine’s sensuous flavors support a rich tannin structure. Ridge advises that this “superb vintage” will be enjoyable over the next seven to eight years.
Ridge Vineyards, 17100 Monte Bello Road, Cupertino, 408-867-3233. ridgewine.com. Another winery location is: Ridge Vineyards/Lytton Springs, 650 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg, where vineyard tours can be arranged.
Farm-to-Table at the Chaminade
Alfaro Family Vineyards is the featured winery at the last in the series of farm-to-table dinners at Chaminade, with delicious food prepared by Executive Chef Nick Church. The event starts at 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20, and tickets are $110 all-inclusive. Chaminade Resort & Spa, One Chaminade Lane, Santa Cruz, 475-5600. chaminade.com.
California Grill Cancer Fundraiser
Every dollar spent on Saturday, Oct. 14 at the California Grill will go to Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services in Freedom and the Katz Cancer Resource Center at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz. By having breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks you will help fight the battle against cancer. California Grill, 40 Penny Lane, Watsonville. Call 722-8052 to reserve a table. Reservations recommended.
Goose’s Goodies
Marci Prolo, owner and confectioner of Goose’s Goodies, continues to produce her marvelous handmade toffee with exciting new flavors such as White Chocolate, Peanut, and Coconut Curry. I tasted a few samples at the Capitola Art & Wine Festival last month—a totally delicious and decadent treat.
Goose’s Goodies, 104 Bronson St., Ste. 13, Santa Cruz, 320-0524. goosesgoodies.com.
