Wine Country Vacation Rentals Archives

Sommelier — much more than a wine steward

Wine geeks share a language of their own. What exactly does it mean when a wine expert describes a wine as crunchy, chunky, or chewy? Okay, you know what chewy means, but … chewy wine? Instead of trying to decipher the qualities of a wine that is muscular or tight, leave it to the sommelier. What is a sommelier? Dictionaries describe a sommelier (pronounced suh MUL yay) as a wine steward, but the job …

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Cook Up Some Fun — Wine Country Cooking Classes

Last month family members gathered from across the state to celebrate my mother’s 80thbirthday. We decided early on to rent a vacation homein Sonoma/Napa Wine Country. But what to do on her special day with a group of people aged 20 through 80 with interests as diverse as skydiving and crocheting? We landed on the idea of a cooking class. The epicurean adventure turned out to be ideal— a way to …

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Cabernet Sauvignon – the perfect winter wine

When it’s chilly outside, wine drinkers tend to gravitate toward reds. And Cabernet Sauvignon places first among winter wine. That’s not to say you can’t enjoy whites or some bubbly in winter, but red wine simply has more appeal this time of year. Why? What is it about red wine in winter? Winter reds warm us up. They’re served at warmer temperatures, which brings out the fuller flavor of …

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Don’t Miss This Gastronomical Adventure — plan now for Sonoma County’s restaurant week

Every year in early March, restaurants in Sonoma County invite you to join in a culinary experience, one you don’t want to miss. So mark your calendars and book your vacation home rental now for the 10th Annual Sonoma County Restaurant Week, March 2 — March 10, 2019. More than 120 eateries will be participating this year, from Petaluma to Geyserville. Savvy food lovers know to take advantage of this …

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Passionate About Pinot — you gotta love Sonoma County’s Pinot Noir

What is it about Pinot that makes it so popular? Even those of us who are white wine devotees will welcome a glass of the alluring red. People are passionate about their Pinot. It’s French, of course Pinot Noir — “black pine” in French — hales from the Burgundy region of France, where it’s aptly named Burgundy. These Pinots are considered the top of the line for this varietal. The …

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Girlfriends’ Weekend in Healdsburg

If you’re feeling the need for some “away” time, there’s no better escape than to gather two or three of your BFFs and head to Healdsburg wine country. Leave everyday responsibilities behind. Spend a couple days feeding your soul. Make this a weekend of things you love giving your time to — deepening friendships, making memories, connecting — and of course, eating, drinking, and shopping too! Go ahead and get …

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A Thoughtful Guest’s Guide to Vacation Rental Etiquette

A great vacation rental experience depends on the quality of the home, how it meets expectations, and the service provided by your host. But that isn’t the whole story. As a guest, you are also responsible for a positive outcome. You don’t have to go overboard. Just treat your hosts with the consideration you would expect to receive. Establishing a mutually respectful relationship can set the right tone for a …

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5 Tips for a Great Wine Country Vacation

With breathtaking views, diverse population, great cultural experiences, and, of course, an array of wine tasting rooms, the Wine Country has all the makings for an incredible vacation destination. Napa Valley alone plays host to more than 3 million tourists, which includes lone travelers, couples, and families. To make your Wine Country vacation smooth and pleasant, consider these useful tips: Check Out the Weather If you are traveling to the …

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Create a Charcuterie Board

Appetizers, tapas, small plates, charcuterie — it’s the new main dish for a no-fuss evening — tasty bites to spark your palette and conversation. A charcuterie board is a wonderful way to wind down a day in the Healdsburg Wine Country. Gather with friends and uncork a few bottles of wine. This easy way to entertain offers something for everyone, but it’s not just about eating. Whether at your place …

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