Viva VJB!
Italy is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Long before the Romans started developing their own vineyards in the second century BCE, Etruscans and Greek settlers were producing wine. Two thousand years later, Italy remains one of the world’s foremost wine producers, (responsible for approximately one-fifth of the planet’s wine production in 2005). If you have a preference for Italian wines, there’s an outstanding old-world producer in the heart of Sonoma Valley. VJB Vineyards & Cellars, is a charming family-owned and operated winery that produces an extremely limited production of fine Italian wines. Since opening in May 2003, this intimate boutique winery has become a big favorite among locals and tourists alike. A great time to visit VJB is on June 14th and 15th, as the family will be celebrating their heritage during Tutto Italiano! Guests are invited to compare and contrast current releases and barrel wines while exploring the winery’s Italian heritage and winemaking techniques from grape to glass. Tastings begin with a refreshing taste of Prosecco (Italian Sparkling Wine). Next, sample VJB’s Tocai Friulano, Sangiovese, Barbera and the winery’s Signature Super Tuscan Dante. Sip straight from the barrel of the award winning Primitivo and Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, then finish off with a little dolce of Barbera Port. While there, owner and Executive Chef Maria Belmonte will be serving her incredible Olive Pesto tapénades and famous Italian sandwiches! Cost is only $20. Visit VJB Vineyards & Cellar at 9077 Sonoma Highway in Kenwood. www.vjbcellars.com; (707) 833-2300.
Hot Tickets
On June 7th and 8th, more than 25 wineries across Alexander Valley are participating in the 11th annual Taste of the Valley. With dramatic themes from cultures around the world, guests of this popular summer pastime have a wide variety of activities to enjoy, including: delicious foods prepared by winery chefs, live music, wagon and gondola rides through vineyards, cave and vineyard tours, barrel-making demonstrations, discounts on purchases, signature Alexander Valley hospitality and more. Included in the $65 fee ($75 at the door), tasters will receive a wristband, souvenir glass, map and a full description of what each winery will be offering. See the world in a weekend. Tickets are available now at www.alexandervalley.org or call 1-888-289-4637.
Purple Haze
Sonoma Lavender is a grower and manufacturer of more than 300 products and is not normally open to the public. But, for the weekend of June 14th and 15th, lavender lovers have a rare opportunity to visit this fragrant family-owned flower farm. Along with tours, wreath making demonstrations and lavender massage; there are three educational seminars: Growing Lavender, The Magic of Lavender Oil and Cooking with Lavender. Food presentations utilizing lavender will be demonstrated throughout the day with several delicious recipes for you to taste including: Lavender Smoked Chicken, Lavender Caesar Salad and Lavender Ice Cream. During the weekend festival, hundreds of products ranging from wreaths and other decorative accessories, to pillows and sachets, and upscale spa products for body and bath will be sold at up to 60% off. Cost is only $5 per vehicle. For more information, visit www.sonomalavender.com or call (707) 523-4411. FYI: Sonoma Lavender is located next to Chateau St. Jean. On June 14th, enjoy two great Wine Country experiences as the French-inspired winery hosts its annual Picnic at the Chateau. Many food-friendly wines will be offered all afternoon. Of course, the “Pétanque” tournament will be back for the occasion! $60 per person. RSVP at (707) 833-4134 or go to www.chateaustjean.com.
Mendo Mojo
Awashed in rustic charm and rural solitude, there’s a gold mine of delicious wines to be found in Mendocino Wine Country. A great time to discover this under-the-radar wine destination is during the 17th annual “Taste of Redwood Valley.” On June 14th and 15th, eleven boutique wineries will be pouring their finest while Mendocino’s best chefs serve up unique ethnic dishes. Sensory experiences ranging from rich, bold wines to savory international cuisine, live music and a sampling of locally-made products. Tickets are only $25 per person which entitles participants to a logo wine glass, tasting and food for two days and entry into a drawing for wine and wine-related prizes. Visit  www.atasteofredwoodvalley.com or call 1-800-760-3739 for more information.
Upcoming
• Celebrate the springtime renewal of the grapevine at the 6th Annual “Grape Affair.” On June 21st, the award-winning wineries of Northern Sierra Wine Country come together for an afternoon of wine tasting, barrel sampling, food, art and music. This is a perfect opportunity to taste diverse wines from a unique grape-growing destination. Meet the winemakers, listen to live music and increase your sensory evaluation of wines by participating in an interactive sensory display of common wine aromas. Grape Affair is hosted at the beautiful Loma Rica Ranch in Grass Valley. Bring lounge chairs or blanket and be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. For more information call 1-866-355-9463 or go to www.nswinecountry.com. 
• Rodney Strong Vineyards’ 18th annual Summer Concert Series kicks off on Saturday, June 21st. Situated in a breathtaking setting of vineyards and redwoods, this annual tribute to wine and music is a mega-popular event among summertime enthusiasts. Outdoor revelers will be treated to an impressive array of top performers in contemporary music while picnicking at the winery’s intimate concert venue, The Green. To view this season’s lineup, call (707) 433-0919 or visit www.rodneystrong.com. www.alexandervalley.org.