Wine Events for Inland Empire and San Gabriel Valley Area for the Week of July 28 to Aug 2

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events

Event #1: “Flight Night - Volteo Vineyards”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Beer tasting Wednesday, July 29, 6 to 9 p.m.

Flight Night Thursday, July 30 from 6 to 9 p.m

Martini Madess Saturday, August 1 from 6 to 11 p.m.

Join Galen on Thursday flight night and enjoy Volteo wines from the vineyards of Tierra de la Castilla regions of Spain and come by Saturday for a special Martini Madness event.

Located at: 144 W. Badillo St, Covina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827

Call ahead for reservations

Hours: Tues-Sat 2-11 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Event #2: “Wine-a-Palloza...Wine Tasting”

Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., July 28 through Sun., August 2 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi is hosting a week of wines of mystery. Six wines will be presented from off-beat wines from a variety of regions. Price: $12.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at: 225 W. Bonita Avenue

San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-942524.

Event 3: "Flights of Rhone Style and Wine Tax Free Wednesday"

Where: California Wine and Cheese

When: Every Wednesday (all day)

Join Monrovia’s best wine & cheese bar for a tax free wine tasting event every Wednesday. This week, try this weeks spotlight of wines from Rhone Style Wines. Flights of Rhone will include a mixture of reds and whites.

For more information, go to: California Wine & Cheese

Located at: 115 W. Foothill Blvd

Monrovia, CA 91016

Phone: (626)358-65003

Hours: 11 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Tuesday through Thursday, we close at 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m. We are open Sunday from noon until 6 p.m.

Event #4: “McKinley's Grille Wine Tasting”

Where: Sheraton Fairplex

When: July 30 (Tuesday) 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

This event is a progressive adventure of wine and discovery of wines from the Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits 2009 Competition" Gold Medal winners. Start the evening with wine then enjoy a tour of the NHRA museum and sip American wine amoung hot rods and enjoy delicious samplings of the new menu from McKinley's Grille. Price: $25 per person

For reservations, call (909) 868-5915

Location: 601 W. McKinley Ave, Pomona, California 91768

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you

Wine Events for Inland Empire and San Gabriel Valley Area for the Week of July 21 to 26

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events

Event #1: “Flight Night - Ventana Vineyards” Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar
When: Beer tasting Wednesday, July 23, 6 to 9 p.m.Flight Night Thursday, July 24 from 6 to 9 p.mWine & Live Music Saturday, July 25 from 8 to 11 p.m.

Join Galen on Thursday flight night for wine from PKNT Vineyards and come by Saturday for wine, beer, with music by Lorenz

Located at: 144 W. Badillo St, Covina, CA
Phone: (626) 732-9827
Call ahead for reservations
Hours: Tues-Sat 2-11 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday2.

Event #2: “Gouguenheim Winery...Wine Tasting”
Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room
When: Tue., July 21 through Sun., July 26 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi is hosting a week of wine from Gouguenheim Winery is located in the Tupungato Valley, a cool within Mendoza, Argentina.. Price: $11.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room
Located at: 225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773
Phone: (909)971-942524.

Event 3: Tax Free Wednesday and Wine Class Saturday
Where: California Wine and Cheese
When: Every Wednesday (all day)

Join Monrovia’s best wine & cheese bar for a tax free wine tasting event every Wednesday. This week, try Flights of Zinfandel and Mixed Whites and try some of the 50+ cheeses available. On Saturday, July 25, CW&C will support an American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraiser. 10% of all retail purchases on that day will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

For more information, go to: California Wine & Cheese
Located at: 115 W. Foothill Blvd, Monrovia, CA 91016
Phone: (626)358-65003.

Event #4: “Pizzaioli Tuesday Night Tasting - A Tour of Paso Robles”
Where: Pizzaioli Ristorante Italiano
When: July 21 (Tuesday) 6 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Discover six different wines from Paso Robles including, Justin 2006 Paso Robles Isosceles, Tablas Creek 2006 Esprit De Beaucastel Rouge, Ridge 2007 Zinfandel San Luis Obispo County, Opolo 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Jeff Runquist 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tablas Creek 2008 Rose. Price: $15 per person

For more information, go to http://www.pizzaioli.com/
Location: Pizzaioli Ristorante Italiano
3920 Grand AvenueChino, CA 91710
Phone: (909) 590.5454

Event #5: “Weekend Tasting: European Summer Wines”
Where: Packing House Wine Merchants
When: Friday, July 24, 2009 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Nothing like some fun European Summer wines. Come and check out some new wines which are sure to be a hit! Price: $15-20

For more information, go to: Packing House Wine Merchant
Located at: 540 W. First StreetClaremont, CA 91711
Phone: 909-445-9463

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you

Wine Events for Inland Empire and San Gabriel Valley Area for the Week of July 14 to 19

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events for the Inland Empire area:

1. Event: “Flight Night - Ventana Vineyards”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Beer tasting Wednesday, July 15, 6 to 9 p.m.
Flight Night Thursday, July 16 from 6 to 9 p.m
Wine & Live Music Saturday from 8 to 11 p.m.

Join Galen on Thursday flight night for wine from Ventana Vineyards and come by Saturday for wine, beer, with music by John Castillo & Zollie Polk

Located at: 144 W. Badillo St, Covina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827 Call ahead for reservations
Hours: Tues-Sat 2-11 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday

2. Event: “Summer Values...Wine Tasting”

Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., July 14 through Sun., July 19 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week the event says exactly that. Heidi presents six wines that are easy on the budget and perfect for summer entertaining. Price: $12.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at: 225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-94252

4. Event: Tax Free Wednesday and Wine Class Saturday
Where: California Wine and Cheese
When: Every Wednesday, and Wine Class on July 18 at 3 p.m.

Join Monrovia’s best wine & cheese bar for a tax free wine tasting event every Wednesday. This week, try wines from the Napa and Sonoma regions. On Saturday come back for a special wine class with Master Sommelier, Elizabeth Schweitizer.

For more information, go to: California Wine & Cheese

Located at: 115 W. Foothill Blvd, Monrovia, CA 91016
Phone: 626-358-6500

3. Event: “Sake Tasting at Kabuki Japanese Restaurant”
Where: Kabuki Restaurant
When: July 14 (Tuesday), Session one: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Session 2: 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Discover sake a whole new way on this sake and food pairing event with Master Sake Sommelier, Yuji Matsumoto and a chance to win prizes!
Price: $25 for 1, $40 for couple, $20 per person for 3 or more.

For more information, go to Kabuki Japanese Restaurant
Location: 12595 N. MainstreetRancho Cucamonga, CA 91739

Phone: (909) 646-8555

4. Event: “Reds, Whites, and The Blues”

Where: The Sycamore Inn

When: Thursday, July 16, 2009 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

This is The Sycamore Inn’s annual event of Red, Whites, and Blues. This year, enjoy 20 wines from a variety of wineries. Included are appetizers and music by blues Band , The Mama's Boys. Come early to get the best seats, this will be a sell out event.
Price: $25 (includes appetizers and music)

For more information, go to: Sycamore Inn

Located at: 8318 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga, Ca 91730

Phone: (909) 982-1104

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine Events for the San Gabriel/Inland Empire Area for the Week of June 7 thru July 12

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events for the Inland Empire area:

1. Event: “Broken Dreams - Open Cases‏”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Beer tasting Wednesday, July 8, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Flight Night Thursday, July 9 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m
Wine & Live Music Saturday with Phil Settle from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Join Galen on Thursday flight night for Broken Dreams and Open Cases night with lite munchies and a special one night only raffle.
Come back on Saturday and enjoy wine and beer for live music by Phil Settle

Located at:

144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827 Call ahead for reservations
Hours: Tues-Sat 2-11 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday

2. Event: “Taft Street Winery...Wine Tasting”

Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., July 7 through Sun., July 12 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents wines from Taft Street Winery. Taft makes excellent wines from the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley appellations.

Price: $13.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at: 225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-94252.

3. Event: "Wine Club of the Month - Wine Tasting"

Where: Live online Wine Club of the Month and on location

When: Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wine Club of the Month is one of the oldest and most respected wine clubs in the nation. Established in 1972, Cellermaster, Paul Kalekiarian Jr. has been presenting wines ever since. Each month, WCOTM tests over 100 different wines to catalog the top wines of the month to present to wine club members. So, come on in at the Monrovia location or view online.

For more information, go to: Wine of the Month Club®

Located at: 907 S Magnolia Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016 Phone: 1-800-949-WINE (1-800-949-9463) Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST Mon thru Fri

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine Events for the Inland Empire Area for the Week of June 30 thru July 5

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events for the Inland Empire area:

1. Event: “Summer Events”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Beer tasting Wednesday, July 1, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Flight Night Thursday, June 25 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Take advantage of The Summer Evening Entertainment Series at Covina Park and join us before or after the event for a refreshing break. With 135 wines, 4 "ice cold" American and Belgian craft beers on tap, and 30 by the bottle you are sure to find a nice way to relax!

Events Location: Covina Park Bandshell, 301 North Fourth Avenue

Mondays: Starlight Concert Series – 7:30 p.m. (7:10 p.m. Talent Show Contest) June 22 – July 27

Tuesdays: Kid’s Night Out – 6:30 p.m. (movies in the park start at dusk) June 23 – July 28

Wednesdays: Celebration Series – Local church groups perform 7:30 p.m. July 1 – Aug.5 Thursdays: Covina Concert Band & Bingo – 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – June 25 – July 30

Event Contact: Melody Hynes, Parks & Recreation – mhynes@covinaca.gov

Now Back in Stock at Azo Vino!

337: Cabernet Sauvignon Lodi '07

Cline: Cashmere Syrah Granche Blend Sonoma '07

Rabbit Ridge: Allure d' Robles Rhone Blend Paso Robles '05

EarthQuake: Cabernet Sauvignon Lodi '07

We also have a wonderful stock of light, refreshing white wines for the weekend!Make sure to stock up for friends and family now. Mix and Match case discounts apply.

Located at: 144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827 Call ahead for reservations
Hours: Tues-Sat 2-10 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday

2. Event: “Beauty Contest Winners...Wine Tasting”

Where: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., June 30 through Sun., July 5 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents 6 featured wines from her best selling wines. Wondering what the meaning of the title is? Come in and ask.
Price: $14.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at:

225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-94252.

2. Event: “Pizzaioli 14th Anniversary - Champagne and Sparkling Wine Tasting”
Where: Pizzaioli Ristorante Italiano
When: Tues, June 30, 2009, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

In celebration of their 14th anniversary, Pizzaioli will feature a selection of Champagne, Prosecco and Sparkling Wines.

For more information, go to: Pizzaioli

Location:
3920 Grand Avenue #A, Chino, CA 91710
Phone: (909) 590-5454

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine Events for the Inland Empire Area for the Week of June 16 thru June 21

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events for the Inland Empire area:

1. Event: “Undiscovered Wineries…Wine Tasting”

Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., June 16 through Sun., June 21 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents 6 featured wines from selected wineries that are new to us. Price: $14.99 per person.For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at:

225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-94252.2.

2. Event: “Wine, Beer tasting & Music Week”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Tues., June 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Thurs., June 18 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sat., June 19 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

AzoVINO is a 4000 sq ft Art Gallery, Wine Bar and Bottle shop located 22.9 miles east of Los Angeles. We represent over 115 artists and 160 Wine labels with an emphasis on West Coast Wines. We also offer Micro-brews on tap and over thirty by the bottle. Our offerings change monthly so please contact us with your e-mail address so that we can keep you informed of new offerings and upcoming events. The tasting room and gallery are also available for private events.

Join Galen Metz at Azo Vino for beer, wine, and music. This week, micro brews on tap from American craft to European bottled brews on Wednesday and six selected wines on Thursday evening. On Friday night, enjoy wine, beer, with music by David Chapman. Saturday, listen to The Blues with John Castillo & Zollie Polk.

Each event will include six different selections from the Azo Vino menu. Price: $15.99 per person (discounts available for Wine Club members. Ask Galen for details).

Located at:144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827

Call ahead for reservations
Hours: Tues-Sat 2-10 p.m. Sunday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday

3. Event: "Cabs for Dads"
When: Fri., June 19 through Sun., June 21 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Packing House Wine Merchants

Treat your father at Packing House Wine Merchants with three nights of Cabernets from all over the world. Price: $15-$20 per person.

For more information, go to: Packing House Wine Merchants

Location:
540 W. First StreetClaremont, CA 91711

Phone: (909) 445-9463

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine Events for the Inland Empire Area for the Week of June 9 thru June 14

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events for the Inland Empire area:

1. Event: “Around the World…Wine Tasting”Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room"

When: Tue., June 9 through June 14 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents Around the World with Wine with six of the best wines from around the world. Price: $14.99 per person.

Come back on Sunday, June 14 for Beer Tasting. At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting room, you won’t find a domestic beer in sight, only the best micro brews around.

Price: $18.99 per person and keep the glass!

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at: 225 W. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: (909)971-94252.2.

2. Event: “Laker Magic Match up Week Wine Tasting Week”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Tues., June 9 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Thurs., June 11 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sat., June 13 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

AzoVINO is a 4000 sq ft Art Gallery, Wine Bar and Bottle shop located 22.9 miles east of Los Angeles. We represent over 115 artists and 160 Wine labels with an emphasis on West Coast Wines. We also offer Micro-brews on tap and over thirty by the bottle. Our offerings change monthly so please contact us with your e-mail address so that we can keep you informed of new offerings and upcoming events. The tasting room and gallery are also available for private events.

Join Galen Metz at Azo Vino for wine and Laker madness. Watch as the Lakers make a run for a historical 15th championship. This is a 2 day event, possible 3 day event if the Lakers are to beat the Orlando Magic within 5 games. Saturday, June 13th come back to Azo Vino for Live Music with Jazz sensation, Lorenz from 8-11pm."

Each event will include six different wines from Azo Vino menu. Price: $15.99 per person (discounts available for Wine Club members. Ask Galen for details)

Located at: 144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827

3. Event: "California Pinots Tasting"
When: June 12 & June 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Fri., Jun 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Packing House Wine Merchants

Join Packing House Wine Merchants for a night of Pinot Noirs from vineyards of California. Price $15 to $20

For more information, go to: Packing House Wine Merchants
Location:
540 W. First StreetClaremont, CA 91711phone: (909) 445-9463

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine events in the Inland Empire area for the Week of June 2 thru June 7

1. Event: “Trinitas…Wine Tasting”
Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room
When: Tue., June 2 through June 7 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents Trinitas which stands for Trinity in Latin. Trinity symbolizes sun, soil, and humanity which are essential for growing quality grapes. Trinitas Cellars is the winery of the week with a presentation of different wines from this California vineyard. Price: $14.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room
Located at:
225 W. Bonita AvenueSan Dimas, CA 91773
Phone: 909-971-94252.

2. Event: “Cline Family Vineyards Wine Tasting Event”
Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar
When: Thur., June 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (or until everyone is ready to leave)

AzoVINO is a 4000 sq ft Art Gallery, Wine Bar and Bottle shop located 22.9 miles east of Los Angeles. We represent over 115 artists and 160 Wine labels with an emphasis on West Coast Wines. We also offer Micro-brews on tap and over thirty by the bottle. Our offerings change monthly so please contact us with your e-mail address so that we can keep you informed of new offerings and upcoming events. The tasting room and gallery are also available for private events.

The menu of wines will include: 2008 Pinot Gris2007 Viognier2007 Sonoma Syrah2007 Cashmere2006 Ancient Vines Mourvedre2007 Ancient Vines ZinfandelDon't miss this great line up of wines as Charlie Cline and Kark Ziegler join us for a night of wonderful stories and keen insight into the industry! Price: $15.99 per person (discounts available for Wine Club members. Ask Galen for details)

Located at:
144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA
Phone: (626) 732-9827 Call ahead for reservations

3. Event: “Wine Tasting and Eclectic Euphoria”
When: Fri., Jun 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Winestyles of Rancho Cucamonga

Join Winestyles for an evening of jazz and wine featuring Eclectic Eurphoria and taste six wines from the Winestyles collection. Hors d’oeuvres included. Wines by the glass and mirco brews are also available. Price: $15 per person/$10 for Wine Club members.
For more info, go to: WineStyles

Location:
8200 Haven Ave Suite 103Rancho Cucamonga, California
Phone: 909-944-9966

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

Wine Events for the Inland Empire Area for the Week of May 25 thru May 31

For seasoned and new wine drinkers alike that want to experience the events of this week, here are the upcoming events:

Note: Due to the Memorial Day holiday, not everyone has updated this weeks event calender

1. Event: “Out of Towners…Wine Tasting”

Where: At the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

When: Tue., May 19 through May 24 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This week Heidi presents six different wines from famous regions outside of California, but the twist is, all the wines are produced in California. This sounds intriguing. Price: $15.99 per person.

For more information, go to: San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room

Located at:

225 W. Bonita AvenueSan Dimas, CA 91773

Phone: 909-971-94252.

2. Event: “Wine Tasting Wednesdays and Saturdays”

Where: abd256 Gallery Wine Bar

When: Wed., May 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. & Sat., May 30 from 2pm to 5 p.m.

Due to the holiday, this weeks wine tasting event theme has not been updated. Price: $12 per person

For more information go to: abd256 Gallery Wine Bar

Located at:
256 S. Main Street, Pomona, CA 91766Private wine tasting is available.

Call 909-623-76003.

3. Event: “Avon Relay for Life Fundraiser”

Where: Azo Vino Art Gallery & Wine Bar

When: Wed., May 27 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Don't miss this worthwhile event... you can make a difference! AzoVINO in association with Lisa Crane from Hair by Lisa is sponsoring a fundraiser for the Avon Relay of Life. Our team of 24 walkers will walk 39 miles in 2 days to reach their goal. You have the opportunity to dramatically impact the lives of millions affected by breast cancer worldwide. By participating in this fundraiser, you willl allow medically under-insured women and men to receive the screening, support, and treatment they require. And leading-edge research teams will be provided with the funds they need to fuel their quest for a cure.

Stop by AzoVINO on the 27th, make a donation of $20 or more and receive a complimentary glass of Cleavage Creek or Cline "Cashmere" w! ine and graze our "Chocolate and Cheese" table. Help us to help the cause.

Located at:

144 W. Badillo StCovina, CA

Phone: (626) 732-9827 Call ahead for reservations

If you attend any of these events, please be sure to tell them, Michael J from Lifestyle Food & Wine sent you.

The Wine of the Week, 2007 Pillar Box Padthaway Red

The wine of the week, hands-down goes to the 2007 Pillar Box Padthaway Red. From the Henry’s Drive Vigernons vineyards comes this Australian little gem that is strikingly bold with just the right balance of sweetness. Made from a blend of 65 percent Shiraz, 25 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10 percent Merlot grapes gives this vintage the perfect balance of flavor. The nose is of bright vibrant wild berries, ripe cherries, black licorice, and vanilla oak. On the palate is rich with cherries, blueberry infused with French oak and vanilla. Even long after the previous sip, the lingering smooth finish will leave a taste of chocolate truffle and pleasant spice.

Bring out this bottle of wine to enjoy alone or have with any meat or pasta dish. This wine would definitely impress your friends, so buy more than one bottle. For the quality, one would expect to pay well over $30 per bottle. Surprisingly, it is priced well below. With a price tag of $10 to $15 per bottle, it won’t break your bank.

For more information about the winemarker, go to Henry's Drive

An hour at the San Dimas Shop and Tasting Room

I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Heidi Daniels and her assistant Bonnie at the San Dimas Shop & Tasting Room on an early Tuesday afternoon.

As I walked in, Heidi immediately invited me in and she was friendly enough to give me a quick tour of her establishment and handed me a wine tasting schedule. I was amazed of the assortment of wines from wall to wall. SDWS is a cute little wine bar with different wines from around the world, also with a good selection of non-commercial micro-brewed beers.

This weeks wine tasting event is called the “Battle of the Blends”. During this event, you are taken on a journey through an assortment of different wines from France, Carneros in California, South Africa, Australia, and Napa Valley in California. For a tasting fee of just $15.99, I was able to taste from all six regions.

My first pour was from Languedoc, France with a 2007 Domaine Auzias “Bonal” Cuvee Blanc. It is a blend of Chardonnay and Muscat Petit Grains. It is definitely a Chardonnay, but with a much greater sweetness from the Muscat grapes with tastes of peaches and apricot on the palate. The taste lingers like a Chardonnay, but with a much more pleasant finish. Retail price is $12.99.

The second pour was a 2006 Malibu Estate “Cielo” Malibu Rouge from Carneros, California. This wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. This is peppery wine and goes along well with tri-tip and burgers. Retail price is $19.99.

The third pour was from a 2008 Boekenhoutskloof “The Wolftrap” from Cape of Good Hoe, South Africa. This dark red wine is a blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, and Viognier. It has deep of garnet colors, but is light on the palate with hints of vanilla from the French oak and spicy flavors and mellow tastes of blackberry and cherry and has a nice long wonderful finish. For the pedigree of this kind of wine, one can expect to pay over $30 per bottle. Surprisingly, it is reasonably priced for this kind of quality. Retail price is $17.99.

My fourth pour comes from Padthaway, Australia. It is my wine of the week, the 2007 Henry’s Drive “Pillar Box” red. This wine is a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. With its abundant cherry and French vanilla flavors, makes this a velvety smooth wine worth savoring by itself or with food. This bottle of wine is reasonably priced at $13.99.

The 2005 Mount St. Helena “Heritage Site” red was my fifth pour. This blend has Zinfandel, Syrah, Charbono, and Petite Sirah that comes from Napa Valley, California. Upon the first sip, the zinfandel grape is evident with tastes of leather, ripe plums, and a flowery bouquet to the nose. This juicy wine goes well with a porter house steak or barbequed tri-tip. Retail price is $15.99.

The final pour comes from Napa Valley was the 2005 Ceja Vineyards “Vino de Casa” red wine. This wine comes from a blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah grapes. This wine is full of ripe cherry flavor and the perfect balance of fruit and spice. For the quality, this bottle is reasonably priced at $21.99.

That was my tasting experience at the San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room. It was an intimate and personal experience with the hosts of the wine bar. While I was there, I witnessed as Heidi brainstorming for the wine tasting that will be for next week and the following month. In the coming week is a “Blind Tasting” tour. For each wine presented will be in a brown bag to hide the wine to make the event a fun “guessing game” experience.

For anyone that is interested in experiencing an affordable wine tasting experience in a friendly, non-stuffy environment, I highly recommend this establishment. It is located in downtown San Dimas on Bonita Ave. It can be easily missed, so drive slowly and you will see the cute little store.