Gina Dallara: January 2009 Archives

By Courtney Cochran

Wilson Daniels Ltd. - a Napa-based sales and marketing organization with a bevy of big-name, international wine clients - has released a series of professional-caliber videos featuring the people and terroir behind its labels.  Filmed on location at the likes of Royal Tokaji in Hungary, Domaine Leflaive in Burgundy and Champagne Salon in, you guessed it, Champagne, the videos encompass such lush vineyard and winery shots as to tempt even the most travel-weary among us to book a flight and go check these famed spots out in person, stat.

By Courtney Cochran

Boasting an elegantly uncontrived style its owners have aptly dubbed "Wine Country Garden," Healdsburg's Dragonfly Floral may just deliver the best blooms in vine land. Using foliage and flowers grown in their own organic/sustainable gardens in nearby Dry Creek Valley, Dragonfly's proprietors supply stylish bespoke arrangements for everyone from individuals to wineries to full-scale wedding parties - with the latter lauded by the likes of Modern Bride, Martha Stewart Weddings and must-have wedding planning guide, The Knot.

Peninsula Tasting and Carmel Valley Village

As you approach the turnoff for the Monterey Peninsula on Highway 1, consider an easy stop at Ventana Vineyards, located close to the intersections of Highways 68 & 218.  One of the pioneering stars of the area, Ventana's wines are estate grown, offering high quality and excellent value.  There are a wide variety of whites, reds and dessert choices to enjoy. Check out the spectacular Super Tuscan Sangiovese blend Due Amici, a recent "Best of Class" winner. You will also find some excellent Meador Estate Wines here.