The Sarah Jane English Newsletter:  70th Edition
March 12, 2005
SPLURGE WINE OF THE MONTH: Alexander Valley Vineyards 2000 CYRUS a Meritage blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot $50--this is a lovely, gracious wine well-integrated tannins and richness, so well made that it suits any grilled beef, chicken, pork, game or veal dish and many cheeses.  
TOP PICKS OF THE MONTH (prices vary store to store) $ Best Buy
 

 
WINERY OF THE MONTH: DUTTON GOLDFIELD Steve Dutton was born the same year  (1967) his father planted the family's first Chardonnay vineyard on his ranch in Russian River Valley. There has never been a moment in Steve's life when he wasn't certain he would always farm that vineyard.  Today, Steve farms not only that original Chardonnay vineyard, but also sixty additional plots of some of the finest, most coveted Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Zinfandel in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations.
MAKING "DUTTON RANCH" SYNONYMOUS WITH ULTRA PREMIUM WINE  "Dutton Ranch" is synonymous with high quality wine due to the family's premier vineyard sites, quality-first farming methods and their willingness to develop new vineyards in previously unappreciated areas of the Sonoma Coast.  A fifth-generation Dutton to live in the area, Steve began working with his father when he was five years old and joined the family business full time in 1987 with a keen passion for farming.  At the age of 32, Steve was named Sonoma County's "Young Farmer of the Year." Steve explains, "Throughout the growing process, from surveying a new plot for a vineyard to choosing the moment to harvest, a farmer knows that everything depends on the partnership you have with the environment.  Through the successes and the failures, the work and the seasons, when a farmer experiences that partnership with the land it's rewarding."
GETTING CLOSER TO THE END  PRODUCT  Steve's desire to move closer to the end product and his friendship with winemaker Dan Goldfield resulted in the 1998 creation of Dutton-Goldfield Winery.  Steve worked with Dan while he was winemaker at La Crema and Hartford Court wineries.  They both believed Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast's coolest regions produced wines to rival the finest anywhere. "I delivered only the highest possible quality of grapes, while Dan produced the highest possible quality of wine in the universe," recalls Steve.  "We were friends and a good team.  Starting Dutton-Goldfield Winery was a natural step for me."   Steve's day is spent working with Dutton Ranch winery-clients, organizing vineyard crews, and working closely with Dan on Dutton-Goldfield Winery business.  His role is managing the vineyards for Dutton-Goldfield wines, as well as assisting with the management and marketing efforts of the winery.  Steve Dutton lives in the Russian River Valley with his wife Theresa and their boy/girl twins, Jake and Jordan.
DAN GOLDFIELD - PARTNER/WINEMAKER -  Dan studied Chemistry and Philosophy at Brandeis University before doing chemistry research at UC Berkeley in 1980.  His passion for wine, interest in chemistry and love of the outdoors helped Dan's decision to enter the University of California Davis to study winemaking.  Dan worked at Robert Mondavi Winery while studying for an M.S. in Enology at Davis in 1987 and after graduation joined Schramsberg as associate winemaker.  In 1990, Dan became the winemaker at La Crema Winery, a Burgundian-focused winery in Russian River accenting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay--fitting Dan's immense enthusiasm for the two varietals.
A WINEMAKING AND VITICULTURAL EXPLOSION  In 1993, Jess Jackson purchased La Crema.  A year later, based on a duo of remarkable 1994 Pinot Noirs Dan produced at La Crema using fruit from the Dutton-Sanchietti and Arrendell vineyards, Jess asked Dan to develop a new winery, Hartford Court, and focus specifically on cold-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from western Sonoma County.  Between 1990 and 1998, Dan played a key role in developing the reputation of western Sonoma County for producing California's finest Pinot Noir.  Working with Steve Dutton, Dan developed vineyards and made wine from a number of them in the colder reaches of the Sonoma Coast appellation.  Dan's appreciation for new, even experimental, vineyards and his search for vineyards with unique personalities earned him a reputation as a talented and innovative winemaker.  His groundbreaking work with cold-climate winemaking at La Crema and Hartford Court attracted a number of assistant winemakers who would go on to continue the cold-climate winemaking movement at Flowers, Willliams-Selyem, Hartford Court, La Crema and Alderbrook.  "The 1990s began the winemaking and viticultural explosion in West Sonoma," recalls Goldfield. "We planted vineyards in places many thought too cold to produce quality grapes and made great quality wines.  It's still going on today. Many of the most promising vineyards are just now coming into production."
FOLLOWING A PHILOSOPHY  Dan and Steve launched their winery in 1998, with their philosophy to make wines that express the personality of a unique, perfectly placed and planted vineyard.  Dan makes Dutton-Goldfield wines, handles administrative chores, shares his life with his wife Dr. Loie Sauer, a surgeon, children Jamie and Emily, and biking across Sonoma County.
SPECIAL REPORT:   CHÂTEAU HAUT BRION, Domaine Clarence Dillon.  I have been privileged to visit this renowned property as a guest of the gracious and talented winemaker Jean-Bernard Delmas several times over the years.  On my last visit his son Jean-Phillip--heir to Jean-Bernard's winemaking throne--joined us to dine and taste the wines.  Phillip has now taken over the winemaking duties; however, Jean-Bernard Delmas, who previously made the wines for over forty years and inherited the position from his father, still consults.  Jean instigated the use of stainless steel tanks (1961) at Haut Brion--unheard of at the time among classed growths in Bordeaux.  Vine cloning is another of his innovations (1977) because the diversity among vines--even side by side--may vary considerably.  In 1990 the estate housed it's own barrel making facility, toasting each barrel to the specific needs of a particular wine.  These and other practices have caused many changes in the wines over the years (naturally since the 16th c.), but especially under the care and guidance of my friend Jean Delmas.  Both Jean B. and Jean P. winemakers were born and reared at Haut-Brion, and know intimately every aspect of the estate, which is cherished with non-pareil affection.   Jean-Bernard recalled his life at the property and the relentless support of the Dillon family through troubled times.  His retirement, I am sure, would have been too devastating had he not had the opportunity to see the estate continue to grow and flourish under the guidance of his son.   Château Haut Brion has celebrated it's 70th year under the Domaine of Clarence Dillion.  In 1934, Monsieur Andre Gibert, the owner of Château Haut Brion, offered his estate to the town of Bordeaux.  The Gironde area and the world economy were stagnated and the gift was refused because funds were insufficient to maintain the property.  Actually, many great estates were for sale: Château Haut Brion, Château Margaux, and Château Cheval-Blanc among them.  During this time Clarence Dillon first visited the Bordeaux wine region.  Dillon was an investment banker without no background in wine, but he had an excellent sense for business quality.  Friend and Bordeaux wine-broker Daniel Lawton took Dillon to visit the three cited estates and he immediately fell under the charm of Haut Brion.  He recognized a worthy challenge in this "tarnished jewel with great potential."  Negotiations began and ultimately Clarence Dillon acquired the property.  Since 1935, seventy years have passed and four generations of the Dillon family members have been responsible for managing the vineyard.  The Dillons have enjoyed one of the longest tenures of family ownership of a Premier Grand Cru in Bordeaux.  The Delmas family now enjoys the third generation of winemakers.  Jean Delmas guided Haut Brion through many of those years.  His son, Jean Phillipe, now oversees the winemaking.   Enjoy a bottle of delectable history.
Location: Chateau Haut Brion is in Pessac, Graves, (Appellation Graves Controlée). 109 acres producing 12,000-15,000 cases.
Classification: First Growth. The only non-Medoc estate to be included in the famous 1855 classification.
Grape variety:  55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Average age of vines is 30 years.
History: Bordeaux's first internationally acclaimed winemaking estate.  Chateau Haut Brion dates back to 1525 when Jean de Pontac married Jeanne de Bellon and received her dowry that included the land of Haut Brion.  Owners of Haut Brion for more than four centuries have included admirals, an archbishop, a Grand Marshal of France, a Governor of Guyenne, three mayors of Bordeaux, Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord (at the time he was Minister of Relations for the Consulate) and more recently the U.S. Ambassador to Paris, Clarence Douglas Dillon, who also served as U.S. Minister of Finance under John F. Kennedy.  Today, Clarence Dillon's granddaughter, the Duchess de Mouchy, is chairperson of the public limited company of  "Domaine Clarence Dillon."  Three generations of the Delmas family have guided the winemaking and estate practices.
Vinification & aging: Chateau Haut-Brion is fermented in stainless steel vats and aged in new oak barrels for 24-27 months.  Clarified with six egg whites per barrel. The winemaking is now managed by Phillip Delmas.
Style: A complex bouquet of ripe fruit, tobac, mineral, earthy scents.  Rich, ripe, medium to full-bodied and well structured. A wine that balances power and elegance, richness and harmony perfectly.  Food: An excellent complement to beef, lamb, veal and game.
NEWS
SAVEUR TEXAS HILL COUNTRY WINE And FOOD FESTIVAL, April 7-10, AUSTIN, TX.  512/542-WINE
The Science of Healthy Drinking author Gene Ford says "If you're tipping a toddy, it's good for the body as well as the soul."  Increasingly, doctors are telling their that moderate wine consumption is part of a healthy diet.  In fact, in August 2004, a CBS.com article reported that a huge international study on heart disease listed abstaining from alcohol as one of its "nine heart-risk factors."  Scientific findings support the value of moderate alcohol consumption for 30 of America's most persistent maladies, including diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, poor cogitation, stress, obesity and the common cold.  The best place to find all of this information in one ready source is The Science of Healthy Drinking.  The book has 447 pages, hundreds of graphs and charts, 1500 studies, surveys and articles, and retails for $29.95 at leading bookstores, wine shops on the Web or toll free: 800/231-9463.  Other good news includes--
WINE INSTITUTE (WI) reported in February the 2004 preliminary figures of  U.S. Commerce Dept.  say U.S. wine exports jumped 28% to $794 million (largest yearly increase ever) --exceeding 2003 by $173 million.  By volume, exports increased 29% to 119 million gallons.    “Over 60 % of California wine exports are to the EU, despite significant trade barriers of high tariffs and a heavily subsidized EU wine industry,” says WI President Robert Koch. “We're hopeful ongoing wine-trade negotiations will lower these barriers.”
    “A weak dollar allowed California wineries to better compete in the world export market,” says WI Internat. Director Joseph Rollo. “Wineries are reaping the benefits of hard work and marketing efforts of the last few years to establish brands in major markets.”
    The United Kingdom is California's top market with a strong 41% increase in revenues to $299.1 million, a volume jump of 20% to 38 million gallons.  Other leading markets in millions are: Canada, $123.8; Netherlands, $85.6; Japan, $82.1; Germany, $26.8; Mexico, $14.5; Switzerland, $14.0; Denmark, $14.0; Ireland, $13.9; Belgium/Luxembourg, $13.4.
    “California wine had another fantastic year in the UK,” says John McLaren, WI United Kingdom Director. “UK consumers are embracing California’s combination of quality, value and diversity, and appetites continue to grow.  One in seven bottles consumed is California wine.
    WI’s European Dir. Paul Molleman reported that 2004 European exports reached a record 10.6 million cases. “We improved our position in established markets (Germany, Switzerland) and in developing wine markets--Russian business almost doubled to 100,000 cases.”
    In Japan, a 35% increase in U.S. wine exports resulted from liquor-license deregulation in 2003 followed by beginning sales in many supermarkets, according to WI Japan Director Ken-ichi Hori.  Now 85% of supermarkets sell wine (4,055 stores, +8.4% from a year ago).   “California popularly priced wine is particularly strong, replacing domestic brands made from imported concentrates and bulk wine.”
    WI Canada Dir. Rick Slomka says, “Despite fierce competition, California wines are regaining market share in Canada resulting from more favorable exchange rates, exciting new products, and strong creative marketing.  On-premise is most promising.
   Most sales are packaged California and other U.S. table wines, up 19% to $592 million.  Bulk wine sales grew 87 percent to $81 million.  U.S. champagne/sparkling wines are $13 million; dessert wine, $43 million; and fermented beverages and other, $64 million.
    After the Wine Equity and Expansion Act passed in 1985, WI has managed the California Wine Export Program, with promotional programs in over 20 countries. Since that time, U.S. wine exports have grown from $37 million in 1986 to $794 million in 2004. Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group for 821 California wineries and affiliated businesses.  www.wineinstitute.org
THUNDERBIRD LODGE in CANYON DE CHELLY NATIONAL MONUMENT offers "MAGICAL HISTORY TOUR": Thunderbird Lodge in Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Chinle, Arizona,  offers  a package tour  designed to make it easy for visitors to gain an understanding of the human history and spiritual and cultural significance of Canyon de Chelly.   Available April 1 - October 31, 2005, the Magical History Tour includes two nights at historic Thunderbird Lodge, continental breakfast for two each morning, a 10 percent discount in the gift shop, a canyon tour for two people and a copy of a 46-minute video called "Canyon de Chelly:  American History, Heritage and Tradition." The two-night package with a half-day tour is priced at $330. The two-night package with a full day tour is priced at $375. Those choosing the full-day tour option also will receive box lunches for two.   Located on the Navajo Reservation in northeastern Arizona, Canyon de Chelly is jointly operated by the Navajo Nation and the National Park  Service. The monument is home to many Anasazi ruins as well as recent historic sites.   The history of the canyon is related by knowledgeable Navajo tour guides who drive heavy-duty six-wheel-drive vehicles in the canyon. With the exception of one short hiking trail, visitors may only enter the canyon in the company of a Navajo guide who is trained in the history of the people of the canyon and the canyon's geology.   Thunderbird Lodge is the authorized provider of group tours in Canyon de Chelly National Monument.  The touring vehicles are equipped with padded seats to provide a comfortable experience.  The tours stop frequently for photographs and to visit ruins, Navajo farms and rock art.  Full-day tours depart at 9 a.m. and return at 5 p.m., taking visitors on a 60-mile round trip through Canyon del Muerto to Mummy Cave and Canyon de Chelly to Spider Rock. Half-day tours last 3 ½ hours, depart at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. and take visitors into the lower halves of both Canyon de Chelly and Canyon del Muerto.    Thunderbird Lodge offers the only overnight accommodations within Canyon de Chelly National Monument and is open year-round. For reservations, call 1-800-679-2473.  Online information on Thunderbird Lodge www.tbirdlodge.com.
 PENFOLDS has unique offering at BAROSSA RARE WINE AUCTION: 
A pre-release bottle of the 2000 Penfolds Grange will one of a  dozen bottles of Penfolds Grange from four vintages that will be sold at April's Barossa Rare Wine Auction, a regular highlight of the biennial Barossa Valley Vintage Festival.  It attracts bids from throughout Australia and the world.  At the last auction,  an Australian record price was paid for an Imperial (six-litre) of 1998 Penfolds Grange when a U.S. collector paid $71,040 for the icon wine.  The annual Auction is on Friday 1 April,  one month before Penfolds Grange is released on 1 May.  Prior to release, only a handful of people have tasted the new vintage of this sought-after Australian shiraz. Other lots sure to create interest at the auction include:
* An imperial of 1998 Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay, one of only two made and the first time auctioned.
* Two Penfolds St. Henri magnum sets. The first six magnums from 1983  to 1988 and the second from 1993 to 1998.
* A unique handcrafted oak case containing 10 vintages of Penfolds Grange from 1990 to 1999 and six Riedel Extreme Shiraz Glasses designed in
association with Penfolds winemakers
* A complete collection of Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet from  1976 to 2003
The auction will be held in Penfolds Premium Red Wine Barrel Cellar at its Barossa Valley winery in Nuriootpa,  April 1st.   View auction lots from 8.30am.  A pre-auction breakfast at 9am  prior to the 10am start of the auction.  The $25 admission includes an auction catalogue and breakfast. Bookings are essential and can be made  through Barossa Marketing on 08 8563 0640 or via email to  kylie@barossa-region.org
FALL CREEK VINEYARDS will host a luncheon to launch the SAVEUR TEXAS HILL COUNTRY WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL, Thursday, April 7, 2005.  Susan Auler invites you to mark your calendars and make reservations for cuisine and Fall Creek wines at $55/ per person, to begin at 11:30am.   Chefs, Patton Robertson, of Patton’s on Main, Jim Tripi, of Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott Hotel, Joanne Bondy, of Cuidad, and Charles Clark, of Ibiza in Houston, guarantee to pamper your palate with their respective courses: Wild Mushroom and Goat Cheese Spring Rolls;  Sweet Potato Gordita with Achiote and Pineapple Ginger Pico de Gallo; Wood Grilled Spring Lamb with Vincotto Buerre Rouge and English Pea Gnocchi, Stewed Fennel, Sweet 100’s, Braised White Asparagus, and Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cheesecake.   Susan Auler  says, "We look forward to welcoming you to our trellised patio by our vineyards." For reservations, www.texaswineandfood.org and event information 512/ 542-WINE.  Fall Creek Vineyards is located on the northwest shores of beautiful Lake Buchanan, 2.2 miles north of Tow, Texas, in the Texas Hill Country.  The Winery and Gift Shop are open everyday all year long, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Years Day and Easter for free tours and tastings: Monday – Friday 11am – 4 pm; Saturday, 11 am – 5pm; and Sunday, 12noon – 4 pm.  Let Fall Creek Vineyards be your destination for any special event: a private event of your own or one hosted by the winery.  Event plans and/or reservations may be made at 325/379-5361.  Visit our website at www.fcv.com for additional information.

 TRULUCK's Restaurant Group opened of a second Austin restaurant at 10225 Research Blvd.  Now folks can enjoy fresh Florida Stone Crab and other seafood specialties, juicy steaks and delicious wines without the excursion to downtown.  Open for dinner only, Truluck’s Arboretum will feature the same menu as their other restaurants.    There's a separate dining room for up to 60 available for private parties.  Live music nightly and half-price appetizers and $1 off wine and cocktails Monday through Friday from 5 to 7.

De LOACH Vineyards announced their newest creation--Hook & Ladder Winery.  Christine and Cecil De Loach are using their own estate grapes to produce small quantities of ultra-premium Russian River Valley wines that include Chardonnays, White-Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and a proprietary blend called The Tillerman.  The line retails for $12 to $20 per bottle.  www.hookandladderwinery.com
WINE TRENDS for 2005: The word is, more and better wine at better prices.  Younger wine drinkers are buying more expensive bottles--maybe one $50 bottle instead of three $15 bottles.  Screw caps are used increasingly and  becoming more acceptable by consumers; however, corks are still revered.  Wine drinkers are becoming more knowledgeable.  California wine labels continue to increase information, especially about appellations and microclimates.  Women increasingly do the wine buying, which means they ask for information,  so the staff must be knowledgeable.  Syrah is becoming more and more popular.   It's a good time to put away some reds for a few years.
MIKE BLAKELY entertains at River City Grille: Songwriter/singer Mike Blakely plays TexAmericana music every Tuesday night in Marble Falls at the River City Grille.  Guest stars are also hosted.  Join the weekly gatherings at 7:30 to 10:30pm and enjoy excellent food as well--especially the Angus beef steaks.  Follow Highway 281 to Marble Falls and find River City Grille west of the Hwy 281 bridge near the river and next to Chili's.  Also, in September, join MIKE BLAKELY and the Whiskey Traders at the TexAmericana Fandango in Luckenbach to continue  music tradition. www.mikeblakely.com
RODNEY STRONG VINEYARDS will host Sonoma County Showcase of Wine & Food Live Auction and Offer a Special Tribute Lot: Rodney Strong Vineyards will host the 2005 Sonoma County Showcase of Wine & Food Live Auction and Dinner on Friday, July 15th.  A very prestigious annual event put on by the Sonoma County Wineries Association which serves to showcase the best of Sonoma County’s food, wine and hospitality through a series of lunches, dinners, tastings, live and silent auctions, and a performance by the San Francisco Symphony.  The 2005 Showcase is taking place July 14th through the 17th.  For more details, visit www.sonomawine.com   Rodney Strong Vineyards will donate a one-of-a-kind wine to the Live Auction--a collaboration of the present and two former winemakers:  Dick Arrowood (Arrowood Winery) and Forrest Tancer (Iron Horse Winery), a tribute to the man, Rodney Strong, and his contributions to Sonoma County’s Wine Industry.  “The Sonoma County Showcase is one of the largest, best attended food and wine events in California each year, which celebrates the rich offerings of this county.  We are pleased to host the annual live auction and dinner here at Rodney Strong Vineyards and look forward to a night of lively bidding and reveling.” said Tom Klein, Proprietor of Rodney Strong Vineyards.  “To mark the occasion, we are assembling a very special, one of a kind lot for the live auction - a special Meritage wine we will call “RDS” that is a one time collaboration between our current Winemaker, Rick Sayre, and two former Winemakers at Rodney Strong;  The lot will also include a lunch with the three Winemakers and signed bottles of this truly special and unique wine.” he added.   “With over 130 wineries and 50 chefs, the Annual Sonoma County Showcase of Wine and Food has become internationally recognized as the Premiere Wine and Food event held in the United States.” commented Jaimie Douglas, Executive Director of the Sonoma County Wineries Association.   Ms. Douglas adds “Sonoma County is rich in history and diversity and this event highlights Sonoma County as a wine and food region that cannot be duplicated anywhere in the world.”
KENDALL-JACKSON announces that the "affordable luxury" wine producer will take on a wide variety of music sponsorships in Wine Country and throughout America in 2005.  Healdsburg Jazz Festival, California, June 4-12;  Mendocino Music Festival, California, July 12-23;Telluride Jazz Celebration, Colorado, August 5-7 are just a few.  For information: www.kj.com
MESSINA HOF GRAND CHAMPION AGAIN: Messina Hof’s Johannisberg Riesling - previously voted Texas’ Best White Wine - was crowned Grand Champion by judges of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition!  Other Rodeo winners are:  Private Reserve Merlot - Champion and “Angel” Late Harvest Johannisberg Riesling.  This is the second year of the competition...last year, Messina Hof’s Paulo 2001 was awarded a Grand Champion!  Owners Merrill and Paul Bonarrigo say with his and her saddles on display, Messina Hof is ready for 2006.  Messina Hof Winery and Resort, established in 1977, is founded on family values, romance and tradition. From its initial production of 1,500 gallons of wine in 1983, Messina Hof has continued to serve the community and ranks as the fastest growing and most award-winning winery in the state. Messina Hof is one of the largest tourist attractions in the Brazos County second only to Texas A&M University.
FETZER VALLEY OAKS invites cooks to join Chef Bridget Harrington for hands-on cooking classes.  Prepare fresh ingredients from the organic garden as it evolves through the season.   Cooking classes are offered monthly from March through December with Fetzer Executive Chef Bridget, who takes students through the five-acre organic garden at Valley Oaks Ranch in Hopland, sharing ideas and insights while selecting what's fresh to create a feast for the senses and the soul.  Classes are fully interactive.  Students participate in preparing meals with Chef Bridget (also co-owner of Patrona Restaurant in Ukiah, not simply watching a demonstration.   Master Gardener Kate Frey will help focus on seasons and cycles in the garden.  Students will enjoy Fetzer and Bonterra wines, many only available at the Valley Oaks Homeplace, and are special winemaker creations for wine clubs, special dinners and friends in lots of just 150 cases.  The garden-culinary-wine-pairing is a total immersion experience, says Chef Bridget:  "you pick it, you cook it, you eat it, you smile."
Classes will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday course days, and cost $50 per person.   Valley Oaks will be open before and after classes for further explorations, and for students seeking a deeper experience, Valley Oaks offers a Country Inn where guests can stay and explore nearby attractions in Hopland and the rest of Mendocino.   And, of course, a wonderful culinary garden.
For information, call 1-(800)-846-8637 or visit Fetzer.com.  Class sizes are limited, and early reservations are advised.  Here's the current class schedule, subject to change according to what's available and showing well from the garden:
March 19 with Chef Bridget: Sugar snap peas, fava beans and asparagus
April 23 with Chef Bridget & Lisa Ludwigsen of School Garden Co.:  Lotions, potions, bath salts, hand cream, lip balm and skin spritzer
June 4 with Chef Bridget & Guest Chef Craig Strattman of Patrona: Herbs & Roses featuring salads, teas, sauces, drinks and deserts
July 30 with Chef Bridget: Summer squash from appetizer to dessert
August 13 with Chef Bridget: Tomatoes & Eggplants
September 10 with Chef Bridget: Chiles, peppers & corn
October 29 with Guest Chef Thomas Oden of Santi Restaurant & Chef Bridget: Pumpkins & greens
Nov. 12 with Chef Bridget & Guest Chef Bruce Riezenman of Park Avenue Catering: Thanksgiving side dishes from the garden
December 10 with Chef Bridget: Winter Vegetables
Fetzer Valley Oaks is located at 13601 Old River Road in Hopland, CA 95449-0611.

 
NEW RELEASES (quotes are winemakers' comments)
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ZD 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $42:  Winemaker Chris Pisani says, "2002 is an excellent follow up to the fabulous ZD 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon.  With ZD's signature style, each vineyard lot was hand harvested and fermented separately in small open top fermentors.  Hand punching gives us just the right amount of extraction without aggressive tannins.  The wine aged in our cellars for two years in American oak from five different cooperages and was bottled July 2004.  It's a blockbuster!  Dark, dense, the wine is packed with complex aromas of cassis, plum, tobacco and spice with plenty of toasty vanilla and just a slight floral note.  On the palate, the ripe black fruit, toasty oak and big yet supple tannins integrate into a long finish."  Pair with grilled steaks,  venison and game, duck and other hearty meat dishes.  www.zdwines.com
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KORBEL BRUT ROSÉ SWEEPSTAKE WIN: KORBEL Brut Rosé ($11) has been named the Schott Zwiesel Sparkling Wine Sweepstake Winner at the 2005 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. One of only four Sweepstake winners out of more than 3,200 wines evaluated during the competition, the award validates the unique mix of tradition, innovation and charm KORBEL uses to create its Brut Rosé. The traditional element of Brut Rosé is the time-honored méthode champenoise way in which it is produced. At KORBEL, the secondary fermentation that gives champagne its distinctive bubbles always takes place in the bottle, an approach more than 300 years old. While this technique is slow and labor-intensive, it gives Brut Rosé fine, persistent sparkle and round, smooth texture.  www.korbel.com
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ROBERT CRAIG 2002 Affinity, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $40, A Bordeaux-style blend (77% Cabernet Sauvignon/20% Merlot/ 2% Cabernet Franc/1% Petite Verdot,  3543 cases: "Affinity integrates rich,  elegant,  complex aromas and flavors, blending Cabernet from Robert Craig’s estate vineyard with Merlot from Carneros to add great acidity, while bright cherry aromas and complex structure are contributed by the Rutherford and Oakville appellations.  An example of the winemaker’s art, the Affinity is renowned for its dark fruit, multiple layers of flavors and round, ripe tannins that are delicious and inviting when the wine is youthful, while providing ample structure for long-term aging.  Aromas of  blackberry bouquet  enlivened with cocoa and earth notes, sweet herbs (sage) and clove, deep fruit and further complexity. Flavors are concentrated fruit at the core with lush blackberry and plum at the forefront, followed by black cherry, mocha and lively spice as the flavors lengthen on the palate. Finish is rich, dark essence of black and red fruit enhanced by touches of cocoa, coffee, sage and clove. Elegant, finely textured tannins create the structure for a rich, multi-layered Cabernet that balances power with finesse.  707/252-2250 www.robertcraigwine.com
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TRUCHARD Vineyards owners Jo Ann and Tony Truchard recall the Truchard family winegrowing tradition that  dates back to 1887. Two brothers, Father Anthony-Marie Truchard and Jean-Marie Truchard (Tony's grandfather) migrated to the United States from Souternon, a small rural community near Lyon in France.  They settled in Eastern Texas where they planted a vineyard and built a winery.  The winery, like many in the United States, did not survive Prohibition.  Tony grew up on the family farm in Texas and called on his farming and engineering expertise to develop his first vineyard in 1974.  At the time he was still a practicing medical doctor.  With an intuitive approach to planting and meticulous attention to his vines Truchard quickly developed a reputation as one of the outstanding vineyards in Carneros.  After selling his grapes to many established and reputable wineries in the Napa Valley for over 15 years, Tony decided to start his own winery in 1989 using only fruit from his ranch.  Truchard Vineyards now produces 16,000 cases of  wine, while continuing to provide quality fruit to more than 20 other wineries in Napa and Sonoma Valley.
TRUCHARD Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carneros, Napa Valley $35: "Truchard Vineyards has been growing Cabernet in the cooler Carneros climate for nearly 30 years with great success.  The vines are planted on the warmer, southwest facing slopes for maximum sun exposure.  The result is a big wine, with tremendous color and structure.  Cabernet Franc is blended in to provide added softness and complexity.  The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon has bright aromas of floral blueberry, ripe plum, and blackberry; with hints of cedar, vanilla, and mint.  The mouth is rich and smooth: jammy flavors of raspberry, black cherry, and red currants. Round tannins fill out the palate and provide a long, opulent finish of spice and red fruit.   www.truchardvineyards.com
TRUCHARD Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Franc, Carneros, Napa Valley $28: "Cabernet Franc is one of the lesser-known Bordeaux varietals.  At Truchard Vineyards it produces an intense, full-bodied wine that adds complexity and richness to our Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, but has enough character and structure to stand on its own. This Cabernet Franc has rich aromas of ripe cherry, blueberry preserves, and plum; highlighted with notes of cedar, tobacco, and mint. The mouth is smooth-full of red currants, plum jam, and cassis. Round tannins fill the palate and focus the flavors into a spicy finish of dried red fruit." 
TRUCHARD Vineyards 2001 Merlot, Carneros, Napa Valley $28: "Merlot is harvested from five separate hillside locations throughout the Truchard Estate Vineyard. The wines from these hillsides each have their own identity, and each contributes different characteristics to the final blend.  Cabernet Franc is added in to provide additional softness and complexity.  This Merlot exhibits the typical Truchard style: aromas of blackberry, floral blueberry, and ripe plum; highlighted with cedar, violets, and subtle mint. The mouth is round and smooth-back cherry, plum, red currants, and sweet vanilla. Velvety tannins coat the palate, and provide a long spicy finish of dried red fruits."
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RAYMOND Vineyards & Cellars founders Walter and Roy Raymond has introduced the new District Wines.  The family winery is in the Rutherford appellation, across the street from the St. Helena district.  News wines come from both appellations.  Blended in the past as part of the RAYMOND Napa Valley Reserve wine program--one district for it's power and the other for elegance--the District Wines are true renderings of the basis for designing an appellation.  "A blend is a different animal," says Winemaker Walter Raymond.   "We thought that there was enough of a difference between these two wines as they matured to showcase their differences, so we created these two wines."  Driven by a limited yield, the District Wines also enhance the winery's portfolio as a small production glimpse of the RAYMOND wines.   The Raymond brothers are in a position to know intimately each vineyard region's nuances.  Their Rutherford estate vineyard has been in the Raymond Vineyard & Cellar portfolio  since 1970 and the St. Helena estate vineyard since 1980.  "The harvest of 2001 was  warm and long, giving way to Cabernet Sauvignons with lots of flavors and concentration.  The 2001 St. Helena District is a classic older style Cabernet Sauvignon.  Gravelly, sparse soils produce small berries with intensity of flavor--rich and spicy.  The 2001 Rutherford District  wine is produced in gravelly, sandy and loam soils and much greater variation of flavors are found from block to block, producing a more fruit forward Cabernet Sauvignon but with acid and structure to keep it."  www.raymondwine.com
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KENDALL-JACKSON presents a two-decades old winemaking philosophy that remains committed to producing only the finest quality wines from grapes grown in California's cool costal vineyards.  "We carefully match climates and soil types for each grape varietal, and then handcraft each vineyard lot throughout the entire winemaking process.  Our proprietary approach to winemaking has earned us a world-renowned reputation for wines that consistently exhibit signature rich layers of flavors combined with delicate balance."  Winemaker Randy Ullom blends various vineyards from several appellations for the reserve wines.  "Our Grand Reserve wines take nothing for granted.  We hand-select grapes from our best vineyards, blending them together to create wines of exemplary depth and complexity.  Grand Reserve is an expression of our mountain, hillside, ridge and benchland philosophy found only in grapes grown along California's cool coastal appellations."
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RODNEY STRONG has released two new wines that come from various pieces of estate landscape in Chalk Hill, Russian River, Alexander Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations of Sonoma County.
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CHATEAU MONTELENA Winemaker Bo Barrett reports that in August 2003 he filed an application with the federal government to designate Calistoga the 15th American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Napa Valley.  "Though long recognized as a distinct wine-growing region, Calistoga is the last township of the Napa Valley without this special designation."  Proposed AVA borders will encompass seven square miles and an elevation range of 300 to 1200 feet.  As the farthest Napa district from San Pablo Bay, Calistoga receives less of the moderating maritime influence and has greater differential between higher daytime and lower nighttime temperatures, making conditions ideal for many red grapes--especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.  I'll keep you posted on the AVA update.
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BRONCO Wine Company has released three new wines.
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LAKE SONOMA 2002 Zinfandel Sonoma $16: "Zinfandel produces exciting grapes in a number of California  vineyard regions,  but many contend it achieves true varietal perfection in just one place: Dry Creek Valley--where a climate of very warm, but not hot days and cool, often foggy nights combine with its well-drained soils to provide ideal growing conditions for Zin.  Given that, different facets are expressed at different sites and the Saini Farms Dry Creek Valley Old Vines Zin shows that difference.  This wine has classic berry character from head-pruned, dry-farmed, shy-producing, older vines.  There's generous raspberry and cranberry fruit with a dash of clove and black pepper complexity, big and powerful, vanilla notes, moderate acidity, smooth and balanced and enticing."
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PARADUXX is a unique Napa Valley red wine blend in the tradition of the world's great blends.  From the super Tuscan wines of Italy to the Shiraz-Cabernet blends of Australia each great winegrowing region has created its own authentic varietal pairings.  Harvested from Zinfandel--a variety synonymous with California--Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, PARADUXX's goal is to craft a world-class wine with a distinctly California personality.  With a blend that includes Napa Valley mountain and valley floor fruit from estate vineyards, this wine has rich, full fruit flavors and soft, integrated tannins, making it a natural complement to a wide array of foods.  (72% Zin/25% Cab/3% Merlot).  Winemaker Bill Nancarrow says "This is a medium-bodied wine with mouth filling fruit, soft tannin structure, balanced acid and a lingering finish.  The aromas and flavors are lush black currant, coconut, vanilla, blackberry jam, pepper, oak, spice, sweet black fruits and chocolate."
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FETZER VINEYARDS has released wines, from several properties: FETZER, BONTERRA, JEKEL and FIVE RIVERS RANCH.
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CELLAR No. 8 Zinfandel North Coast ($14) wines are made from grapes grown in California's North Coast appellation, which consists of coastal and inland valleys and hillsides in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake Counties.  In the early 1880s Andrea Sbarboro founded the Asti Winery in northern Sonoma county.  Apply in time-honored methods and expertise from the old country, Sbarboro and a group of Italian immigrants formed an entire community around which winemaking was its soul.  Today, CELLAR No. 8 wines honors and reflect the tradition of winemaking at Asti in a series of intense red wines from California's North Coast appellation.  "Dominant wild blackberry and black cherry aromas and flavors  backed by hints of boysenberry jam, found mouthfeel, classic characteristics, modest acidity and soft tannins, balanced."
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KENWOOD 2002 Sonoma County Zinfandel $15: "If wine's first duty is to please, this wine will have wine lovers reaching for it, with its uncomplicated character that charms,  at every opportunity.   KENWOOD's success with Zin comes from trusting the grape.  We let them get fully ripe and ferment in temperature-controlled stainless steel.  This wine entices with aromas and flavors of vibrant blackberry, vanilla and spice notes, complexity, elegance, smooth and a lingering finish."   KENWOOD 2002 Merlot, Sonoma $17: "Merlot can be a fickle grape, but experience has enabled Kenwood winemakers have learned how to bring forth its delicious character in both this wine and the KENWOOD 2001 Reserve Merlot, Sonoma $25.  They highlight the generous, supple fruit and irresistible appeal.  For more power ad complexity, choose the Reserve.  For softened and delicate complexity, select the Sonoma County 2002 KENWOOD.  Either will please and bring tasteful pleasures.
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CHALONE WINE ESTATES introduces three new wines from three properties. 
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GALLO OF SONOMA has new releases from several producers: GALLO OF SONOMA, ANAPAMU, BRIDLEWOOD, NAPA VALLEY VINEYARDS, MARCELINA and TURNING LEAF.
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THE LITTLE PENGUIN, America's fun-loving wine, has released North America's second vintage, the 2004 Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.  The wines retail  nationally for approximately $8.   These four single-varietal wines offer great taste that suits casual occasions.  The Little Penguin name and image expresses the social and vibrant personality of  the brand for consumers who need a great wine for social situations, but  are less concerned with the more traditional values commonly seen in other  wine brands.  The website  (www.thelittlepenguin.com) has tips on how  to throw Penguin Parties as well as a Wine Personality Test, a multiple choice quiz to determine which variety of wine you are.  The wines are sourced from premium vineyards in South  Eastern Australia.  The Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon  are made in a fresh, fruit-forward style, crafted for early enjoyment.  Winemaker Marie Clay allows the bold, varietal fruit flavors to dominate the nose and palate, yet maintains a balance with clean acidity.  "2004 is a fantastic second vintage--lovely warm, dry weather allowed the fruit to  develop with lots of flavor.  We are really happy with the results and  hope consumers will enjoy the wines with family and friends."  
   Little Penguin 2004 Chardonnay is bright with zesty tropical fruits, hints of melon and pineapple. On the palate the wine  is lovely and balanced, finishing with a light, clean acidity. The 2004 Shiraz has enticing splashes of chocolate,  spice and juicy strawberries on the nose. The palate  shows dark sweet fruit.   Both the 2004 Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are medium-bodied and exhibit  stylish varietal characteristics. The 2004 Merlot is crimson red in color,  with sweet berry aromas and savory, spicy notes on the palate with a  smooth finish. The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is crimson in color and shows  attractive cassis and cherry aromas followed by lifted berry flavors and  vanillin oak across the palate.  Southcorp is the largest Australian-owned wine producer,  marketing fine wines in the Americas under the labels:  Penfolds, Rosemount Estate, Lindemans, Wynns Coonawarra Estate,  Seaview, Seppelt, Coldstream Hills, Devil's Lair, and the Little Penguin. 
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COASTAL RIDGE 2004 Pinot Grigio, California $7: "Elegant and full of character, host of complexities make it suitable for many occasions.  It's fruity with melon and grapefruit flavors and a soft, gentle finish."   COASTAL RIDGE 2003 Merlot, California $7: "Rich with fruit nuances, soft tannins, lovely strawberry, blackberry and cranberry plus vanilla and cedar with silky tannins."
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ALLIED DOMECQ WORLD WINES has introduced CAMPO VIEJO in the U.S.  Winemaker Elena Adell San Pedro says the Riojo story helps explain the wines.  "In 1635 the Mayor of Logrono banned carriages from using roads next to cellars fearing that vibrations from vehicles might affect the wines.  Since then, the region's wines have been respected and considered prestigious.  The state-of-the-art winery rests atop historic cellars and we blend centuries old craftsmanship with advanced modern techniques."
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CAYMUS TIMELINE: 1885 The Wagner forefathers emigrate from Alsace and make their way to the San Francisco Bay Area.  Following the 1906 earthquake, they acquire farmland in Napa Valley.
1912 Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner is born on the family's Rutherford farm.
1915 The Wagner family builds a winery to produce bulk wines. This enterprise will grow to 30,000 gallons per year before Prohibition.
1941 Charlie Wagner and his wife, Lorna B. Wagner, purchase 73 acres in what will become, in 1993, the Rutherford District American
Viticultural Area. Charlie and Lorna gain a reputation as skilled grape growers and home winemakers.
1960s Charlie Wagner pulls out fruit orchards to plant Pinot Noir, Johannisberg Riesling and, most significantly, a Cabernet Sauvignon clone from highly regarded grower Nathan Fay's vineyard. Over 60 acres of Cabernet vineyard on this site remain the core of Caymus's
Cabernet Sauvignons today.
1972 Charlie, Lorna and their son, Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner establish Caymus Vineyards and produce their first wines, including 240 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon. They take the name Caymus from the "Rancho Caymus" Mexican land grant that in the 19th century encompassed much of the area surrounding what is now Rutherford. 
1975 From the 1975 vintage, Caymus introduces "Special Selection," a Cabernet Sauvignon chosen from the best lots and given extended barrel aging.  Randall Dunn joins the team as winemaker.
1984 Chuck Wagner takes over as winemaker. He subsequently trains and names Jon Bolta as winemaker for white wines.  Jon crafts a proprietary blend, Conundrum (first released in 1989). 
1989 Caymus 1984 Special Selection Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is named "Wine of the Year" by Wine Spectator magazine, earning this honor over 6,000 other wines tasted.
1994 Caymus 1990 Special Selection Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is named "Wine of the Year" by Wine Spectator magazine. Caymus Special Selection Cabernet thus becomes (and remains today) the only wine to be selected twice for this honor.
1997 Caymus is named "Best Winery for Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Blend in California" in Wine Spectator's Readers' Choice
Awards.  Also in this year, Caymus Cabernet earns its sixth spot on Wine Spectator's top-ten list in nine years.
2002 Charlie Wagner passes away in Rutherford in his 90th year.  Chuck Wagner continues to direct all of Caymus's vineyard, winery and business operations.  Caymus focuses its production exclusively on Cabernet Sauvignon. 
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ESTANCIA, roughly translated from the Spanish that means estate,  has release a number of new wines and founder Agustan Huneeus expresses his conviction that the world's best wines capture the essence of their place of origin.  ESTANCIA has new releases from Monterey Pinnacles Ranch (Pinot Noir) and the first releases (Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon) from the estate vineyards in Paso Robles.  "At Estancia Estates each wine has its singular way of expressing the ground and environment from which it was born.  Being a vineyard-based winery is the essence of our philosophy.  We believe great wine reflects the care and uniqueness of its terroir - the combined environment of soil, topography, climate and people and we're committed to nurturing this tie of wine to its soil, to its "somewhereness," so that each wine has the full expression of our vineyards," say Winemakers Bob Cook and Chris Todd.
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MERIDIAN 2003 Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County $10: "Aromas and flavors of floral, guava, vanilla, nutmeg and intense tropical, mouth-filling, pineapple, oak, lime and grapefruit oils, finish is long, citric and well textured."
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ZACA MESA was named "2004 Estate Winery of the Year" by Wine and Spirits, noting the dedication to Rhône varieties. “Zaca Mesa has been committed to Rhône varieties for longer than just about everyone in the Central Coast.  They were the first to plant syrah here, back in the seventies, well before anyone thought much of the stuff.”   Winemaker Clay Brock says, "Our unique Rhône-style wines have a long history in Santa Barbara, beginning in 1972 when we purchased and began planting our estate vineyard.   In 1978, Zaca Mesa dedicated a section of our vineyard to this unique grape traditionally grown in France's Rhône Valley.  Our vineyard is still home to Santa Barbara’s oldest syrah vineyard, the Black Bear Block.  In 1995, our dedication to Rhône varieties was affirmed when ZACA MESA 1993 Estate Bottled Syrah was named #6 on Wine Spectator’s “Top 100” list.   Robert Parker, Jr.  said in The Wine Advocate, ZACA MESA 1994 Syrah: “…one of the richest, most hedonistic wines per penny spent that I have ever tasted and reviewed.”  Food & Wine reported of Zaca Mesa in 2004: “Some of the best estate-bottled Syrahs in the region are found here.”  Today we continue our dedication to Rhône varieties by growing six different Rhône varietals in our estate vineyard: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Viognier and Roussanne.  All of our wines are crafted exclusively from fruit hand picked in our estate vineyard, giving us complete control of the quality of our wines from vineyard to bottle.  Each year we estate bottle: Syrah, Viognier, Roussanne, Z Cuvée (a proprietary Grenache-based red wine) and a small amount of Chardonnay that is grown in the coolest section of our vineyard. Additionally, we make limited amounts of Black Bear Block Syrah, Z Three (Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah), Z Gris (a dry Rhône-style rosé), and a few other winery-exclusively wines.
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GEYSER PEAK 2003 Reserve Chardonnay, Alexander Valley $25 is 100% barrel fermented.  "Predominantly from a riverside parcel, Meola Vineyard, whose sandy, low yields and cooling coastal fogs are ideally suited for this wine.  Aromas of pear, fig and tropical fruits, balanced and food friendly, bright and fruit driven, rounded with subtle vanilla an toasty oak, some butterscotch, creamy texture and lingering finish" 
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ALICE WHITE from South Eastern Australia offers approachable, fruit-forward wines with the intrepid heroine's continuing saga on the back label. 
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CHALONE WINE COMPANY has released several new wines.
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MADROÑA VINEYARDS owners Maggie and Paul Bush tell me their estate wines come from some of the highest vineyards in El Dorado, with awesome views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.  "We've been growing grapes here since 1973," Paul says.  "I continue to learn about grape varieties, clones within a variety and micro climates with intensive hands-on vineyard practices that makes our wines exceed what some people thought was possible up here.  And I plan to keep on doing for the next 30 years." 
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LLANO ESTACADO is pursuing its ongoing commitment to produce notable Texas wines.  Here are new releases from their vineyards.
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JOSEPH PHELPS has released four red wines for your pleasure from the 2002 vintage.
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ROSENBLUM CELLARS reports that its mandate is to craft exceptional wines using fruit selected from world-class vineyards--even though it is probably best known for its portfolio of old-vine Zinfandels.  Over the years, founder Kent Rosenblum and Winemaker Jeff Cohn have followed their growing passion for the wines of the Rhone region.  They are pleased to release the new vintages of four exciting Rhone varietals from their program.
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2001 Pinot Noir, Sleepy Hollow Estate, Santa Lucia Highlands $18: "The first Logan Pinot Noir--the 1994-- was released in 1997 and was named for the Talbott's son.  This steep, hilly vineyard is split into two parcels, called Ranch A and Ranch B.  Fruit for this wine comes predominantly from the southern parcel B, where yields are kept low by naturally lean soils and pruning.  It shows brilliant garnet color, aromas and flavors of richness, strawberries, ripe cherry, cola, vanilla and hint of earth, blueberry pie, raspberry nuttiness framed by cedar notes and great concentration, vibrant acidity and hint of spice.
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VISIT MARBLE FALLS and HORSESHOE BAY, TEXAS: MARRIOTT has opened a new Resort Hotel and Convention Center in Horseshoe Bay, Texas.  The 349-room property occupies 32 acres in the Texas Hill Country with 22,000 sq .ft. of conference space and one of the top chefs in the Marriott panoply of hotels--Chef James Tripi.  Recreation includes walking trails, water-skiing, jet-skiing, fishing, full-service spa and fitness center, tennis, three golf courses and a putting course.  Horseshoe Bay is a beautiful community adjacent to the town of Marble Falls.  Marble Falls is named for waterfalls from the Colorado River that cascade over marble outcroppings.  Granite Mountain, a huge stone monolith at the town's western edge, secured Marble Falls' place in Texas history by supplying the pink granite to build the State Capitol Building.  Today, the natural beauty of the rolling river forms Lake LBJ, one of the most popular in Texas.
The oldest of the area's attractions, the geological formations of the Hill Country are a backdrop for a world of things to see and do year-round, including historical amazements and modern-day amusements.  Wander down Main Street.  Buildings from the late 19th century have been converted to fun browsing places.  The Old Bank Building, circa 1887, houses Smartie Pantz Fashions and In the Garden businesses.  In back of the bank on Second Street, Cafe 909 has foods that will tantalize and excite your palate with unexpected refinement.  Chef Mark Schmidt and his wife Shelly live above their 50-seat restaurant and devote themselves to serving the best food possible.  Mark has fresh seafood flown in from both coasts and uses farm-fresh vegetables.  He delights in conjuring sauces and calls his food "rustic gourmet."  It is a surprise feast in this unpretentious, Hill Country town and open only for dinner (830/693-2126).  You can enjoy lunch and dinner at River City Grille, just across the highway 281 bridge.  In addition to huge salads, several varieties of hamburgers and other sandwiches, the Angus beef steaks are delicious.  Singer/songwriter Mike Blakely and his band entertain at River City Grille every Tuesday evening.  Mike writes the ballads and other story-telling songs for the pleasure of their country-western music fans.  On the other side of the bridge, have breakfast at the legendary Bluebonnet Cafe.  It's a place for eager eaters, and there are plenty of them--between 800 to 1000 daily, says owner John Kemper.  Just about everything is served on huge oval platters.  Next to the Old Bank in the other direction is Wisteria Furniture Accessories and  Gifts for Home & Garden.  Continue down Main street to visit art galleries, a book store, antiques shops, a soda fountain and The Uptown Marble Theater.   The old theater was refurbished from a 1942-movie house to a place of entertainment for the local talents.   
There are multiple lakes. Marble Falls is in the middle of the largest chain of lakes in Texas -- the Highland Lakes of Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls, Travis and Austin. The hundreds of miles of waterway offer every imaginable type of lake-lover's recreational activity: power boating, sailing, water skiing, jet skiing, swimming, and fishing.   
There's a popular scientific theory that the area around the Highland Lakes is the "oldest dry land on earth," formed when the Llano Uplift first broke through the ocean's surface.   Area rock formations fascinate visitors above and below the earth.  Enchanted Rock State Park lets visitors climb to the top of the second-largest granite dome (batholith) in the U.S.  Nearby Longhorn Cavern permits guests to descend to the cool depths of limestone caves cut by prehistoric rivers.
And everywhere the Hill Country reveals a marvelous mix of old and modern-day uses of the native stone to craft everything from a pioneer settler's fence to an entry road for a prestigious new development.
One community cornerstone is the Marble Falls/Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce.  Executive Director Doug Morris says, "We exemplify the progressive, though not aggressive, character of the whole area.  Our philosophy is to serve the future while preserving the past.  We want to make things uptown and keep things down-home at the same time.  We welcome the new, but we revere the old.  It's our commitment to each other as much as to nature that makes our quality of life so special."
The real beauty of the Highland Lakes is that there's everything under the sun to do...and no pressure to do any of it.  The serenity of our Hill Country setting invites you to enjoy the lakes at your own pace. You can do it all -- or do nothing at all -- and love every minute of it. Then there are the golf courses. There are seven beautiful all-year courses within a 20- mile radius, including 54 holes of Robert Trent Jones' finest work at fabulous Horseshoe Bay.
Add to that the championship tennis facilities, scenic horseback trails and some of the best hunting and fishing in all of Texas, and you'll see why Marble Falls/Lake LBJ is such a great place to visit. And an even better place to live.
Many people come to the Hill Country to enjoy peacefulness.  A traffic jam is three whitetails at a deer crossing, or four painted buntings at the bird feeder. 
Nature owns this land, and the people who come here are very careful tenants.  Careful to insure that those coming after will be able to enjoy all the wonders of the past and present along with those of the future.  
Marble Falls/Lake LBJ is at the heart of the Hill Country and the hub of the Highland Lakes. LBJ State Park, Inks State Park, Longhorn Cavern, Enchanted Rock, fabulous resorts and rustic camps all lie within a short drive. 
Plus...Austin, with its many cultural and educational advantages, is less than 50 miles to the east, and San Antonio, rich in history and heritage, is less than 90 miles to the south. 
The roads, the rivers, the hills, the lakes, the panorama of history all come together at Marble Falls/Lake LBJ...The Cornerstone of the Highland Lakes.  
Population: 5,064 in Marble Falls and 10,702 within 7-mile radius.
Location: In Texas Hill Country on the Colorado River, 47 miles northwest of Austin, 85 miles north of San Antonio. In the middle of the Highland Lakes area, the largest chain of lakes in Texas.
Average Temperatures: High January77° and low 18°; High July 99° and Low 68°
Average relative humidity: 40%
Average Rainfall: 30 inches
Climate: Mild, fairly dry climate with hot summers.  Area is subject to tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and occasional flooding. Winter brings occasional snowfalls. 
 

 

© 2005 Sarah Jane English

Sarah Jane: sarajane@onr.com

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