Being a parent in wine country.
Saturday, June 5th, 2010The school year has ended for us and with that comes all the parties and get togethers to celebrate a successful year. This year Vayle graduated from preschool, for her graduation she got ice cream sandwiches and the parents got Domaine Carneros 2006 Brut Vintage Cuvée. Not bad.
On to the end of the year party at Breggo Cellars in Anderson Valley. Breggo Cellars is a top notch winery that makes amazing Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, not to mention a pretty good Gewurztraminer. It is run by Doug and Ana Stewart, two of the most gracious hosts around. After my half hour recovery from the drive to Boonville I was overwhelmed with the great food and wine to be had. I brought a Kelley & Young 2008 Rose which I paired with Manchengo cheese and Quince paste (one of my all time favorite appetizers, simple & elegant). Later, when Doug gave us a tour of the winemaking facilities we got to see all the care that goes into their wines. I think the tour favorite was the ceramic egg that is used for fermenting. Not only is the shape fascinating but the concept is that they produce a soft, gentle fermentation, leaving the aromas intact. This explains, why they are always highly rated and well loved.
It really made me feel lucky to be in Sonoma County with such talented artisians making brilliant wine and putting together great food to serve along side it. It really kind of beats the Olympia beer and Doritos that I grew up with, all though that does has its place…
