Make Plans Now for the 2014 Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival

With a national advertising campaign resulting in over 100 million media impressions, the Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival provides an unprecedented opportunity for local businesses to increase the amount of publicity and recognition that their brand receives. Local eateries and tourist attractions have had greatly increased traffic during past festival events, and this year is on track to break previous attendance records.

The festival offers businesses a great partnership and even greater visibility due to this massive national campaign. With premiere media partnerships such as the LA TIMES, Travelzoo, and other notable national publications, the Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival brings added attention, revenue and good will to the community, all while benefiting a worthy cause.

This two week long event features a slate of tasting affairs that highlight numerous local eateries and restaurants, bringing media attention and new customers to local businesses that might not otherwise gain this level of exposure.

Local hotels and motels in Calabasas and Malibu have historically experienced a surge in occupancy rates, and are typically sold out during the two weeks of the Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival.

Area restaurants and bars are packed during the two week festivities, and enjoy a proven increase in residual business that multiplies each year with the coming of the next festival. The impact of participating in previous festivals is now being felt by a variety of local businesses such as providers of scenic tours and excursions, specialty boutiques, auto mobile dealerships and a variety of shopping destinations.

Businesses in Malibu and Calabasas alike are seeing an increase in their profitability because of the traffic and visibility that a partnership with the festival brings. Local wineries report that they are filled with out of town guests looking to get their hands on the Malibu gold, some of the best wines that California has to offer.

More and more, this event is making a prominent impact not only on area businesses, but is giving back to the community as well. Last year, proceeds from the event were used to purchase all new equipment for the local high school.

Both businesses and the community benefit from the increased tourism and national recognition that this unprecedented media exposure will provide.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Simply Wine Festival Coming to Ventura County in March

One might be surprised by some of the elite names, such as premium electric car manufacturer, Tesla Motors and cellar-masters, Premier Cru Collection, which are associated with the Simply Wine Festival event to benefit Make-A-Wish Tri-Counties at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village this coming March.

Make-A-Wish Tri-Counties grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions in a mission to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.

While the purpose of the event is to raise funding for the revered Make-A-Wish Tri-Counties, the occasion also affords wine lovers a welcomed opportunity to taste brands such as high-scoring Achaval-Ferrer, LeSaffre Wines, Gauchezco and the much-loved, If You See Kay. Additionally ultra-premium spirits brands such as Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal and Tallarico Vodka will pour.

In fact, the brands attending are so recognized and acclaimed that a Sommelier panel has been assembled, comprising such industry icons such as Meridith May, Publisher and Editorial Director at The Tasting Panel and The Somm Journal; Bonnie Graves, celebrated Sommelier (Spago, Jean-Georges); and, Kaj Stromer, G.M., Wine Director, Woodland Hills Wine Company, among other peers, who will judge the attending wineries and spirits brands in the following categories: Most Outstanding Varietal in its Category, Best in Blends, Excellence in the Spirits Space, Exceptional Value (Best Buy), Category Innovator.

High-end restaurants will also participate with dishes representing their respective flavor profiles and themes, giving wine-lovers a reprieve from tasting, and an opportunity to experience some of the stellar gastronomy in their surrounding areas.

“These events are important to the educational process,” said Meridith May, of The Tasting Panel and The Somm Journal. “In order to help the consumer develop their palate, it’s important to elevate the standard of events in which we participate. The level of wines at this event is impressive and those attending will get the opportunity to taste what a wine in its respective varietal ‘should’ taste like.”

David Biggar, Wine Enthusiast’s Innovator of the Year Award recipient and Partner at Vintage Point noted, “A wine tasting should be just that...a place to learn about wines and experience excellent examples. And that’s how we like to address the consumer: through education.”

For tickets go to SimplyWineFest.com or call 805- 890-9609.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Support The Monuments Men and George Clooney In The Search For Lost Art

In anticipation of the nationwide release of The Monuments Men, the new film from director George Clooney based on the true story of the race to save 1000 years of culture, moviegoers can visit SupportTheMonumentsMen.com, where they will find resources and information about the ways we all can continue the search for landmark works that were stolen or taken as souvenirs during World War II and are still missing today. The film, which is written by George Clooney & Grant Heslov, will be released on February 7, 2014.

Robert M. Edsel, who founded and heads the Monuments Men Foundation, added, "The Monuments Men and women saved almost five million cultural objects, but so much is still missing. They could be anywhere, in your grandfather's attic, or hiding in plain sight. I'm thrilled that with the release of the movie, there will be a way for the public to help complete these heroes' mission. Call 1-866-WWII-ART and find out how you can help."

At SupportTheMonumentsMen.com, moviegoers can sign a virtual petition supporting the Monuments Men's efforts to preserve and protect great cultural works of art by encouraging members of Congress to honor the Monuments Men with the Congressional Gold Medal.

In addition, visitors will find a phone number – 1-866-WWII-ART – which will connect callers directly to the Monuments Men Foundation, where they can speak with a Monuments Men Foundation representative regarding the search for lost art.

Also as a part of the Support the Monuments Men site, visitors will find an interactive map. On the map, moviegoers can find out local museums that will be featuring their institutions' connection to the Monuments Men – such as personnel who participated in the campaign or rescued works of art that hang on the museums' walls.

On the "Journey of the Monuments Men" feature, visitors can read about the history – from information about the real Monuments Men to the efforts they and others took to save landmark works during the war.

Finally, the studio has developed an educational program to engage high school and college students, families and art buffs about the story of the Monuments Men. The educational site, at MonumentsMenEducation.com, features downloadable lesson plans that meet common core state standards, an interactive map, and videos to spark discussion and aid educators in building a curriculum. Students are also invited to get involved by uploading photos of local works of art that best represent their communities. The photos can be uploaded by visiting the Tumblr page at LocalTreasure.tumblr.com.

Based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in history, The Monuments Men is an action drama focusing on seven over-the-hill, out-of-shape museum directors, artists, architects, curators, and art historians who went to the front lines of WWII to rescue the world's artistic masterpieces from Nazi thieves and return them to their rightful owners. With the art hidden behind enemy lines, how could these guys hope to succeed?

But as the Monuments Men found themselves in a race against time to avoid the destruction of 1000 years of culture, they would risk their lives to protect and defend mankind's greatest achievements. From director George Clooney, the film stars George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville, and Cate Blanchett. The screenplay is by George Clooney & Grant Heslov, based on the book by Robert M. Edsel with Bret Witter. Produced by Grant Heslov and George Clooney.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

MOSI Celebrates 19th Annual Einstein on Food & Wine Festival

The Museum of Science & Industry will host its 19th annual Einstein on Food & Wine festival, Jan. 31 - Feb. 1. This celebration of the senses showcases the delicious and diverse cuisine of Tampa Bay, alongside the palate pleasers of winemakers from around the country. The weekend is ideal for anyone who enjoys wine, food, music and supporting a worthy cause through a silent auction.

The weekend kicks off with the 2nd annual Annus Mirabilis dinner on Friday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. Tickets are available for those wishing to enjoy an intimate dinner, culinary demonstrations and a customized menu by Alex Thomopoulos, comedian-turned-chef of HUNGRY’s Bites & Booze, in a private home on Bayshore Boulevard. A regular recipe and content contributor for KitchenAid and Chalkboard magazine, Thomopoulos is also a recurring guest and guest co-host of Hallmark Channel’s Home and Family Show. Thomopoulos' appearance is made possible by the generous donation of Bay Area Medical Resources, Inc.

The celebration continues with Einstein on Food & Wine on Saturday, Feb. 1. The event begins at 7 p.m., but those with VIP tickets have early access beginning at 6 p.m. and can rub elbows with Thomopoulos in the VIP lounge. ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, the host sponsor, will feature more than 120 vintners with a variety of wines, including reds, whites, champagnes, domestic and imported. Delicious food and desserts from more than 30 different local restaurants will be featured including Capital Grille, Texas de Brazil, Shells, Cigar City Brewery, BJ’s and Blue Bell ice cream, along with a variety of food trucks like Not Your Ordinary Food Truck and Lizzy Cakes. In addition to the array of food and wine, a silent auction, including tickets to the Emmy® awards, will be held with proceeds to benefit MOSI’s educational programs.

This year MOSI is adding new and exciting elements to Einstein on Food & Wine, including the MOSI STEAMpunks performing random acts of science throughout the event, roaming Einsteins, Ghostbusters, Roller Derby girls, the Tampa Bay Squad of the 501st Legion – the Star Wars Imperial costuming organization, and much more.

Additionally, restaurants who participate will have their food judged by Thomopoulos and MOSI guests in a quest to find the best food at Einstein on Food & Wine. Guests will vote for their favorite restaurant by dropping a dollar in their ballot box. The restaurant with the most dollars at the end of the night wins "Fan Favorite." All proceeds benefit MOSI's education and scholarship programs. Winners will be announced in MOSI’s Grand Lobby prior to the closing of our silent auction. The restaurant competition is sponsored by Raymond James Financial.

Prize categories are as follows:
-First Place will receive $1,000 and a plaque
-Second Place will receive $750 and a plaque
-Third Place will receive $250 and a plaque
-Fan Favorite will receive a plaque and bragging rights

Einstein on Food & Wine tickets are $60 for members, $75 for non-members and $85 when purchased the week of the event. The event begins at 7 p.m. and guests must be 21 years or older to attend. VIP tickets can be purchased for $125, which includes early access to Einstein on Food & Wine at 6 p.m. and a round-trip chartered bus service from the Capital Grille at International Plaza, where complimentary appetizers will be served from 4 - 6 p.m.

Tickets for the 2nd annual Annus Mirabilis dinner, which include an intimate dinner, culinary demonstrations and a customized menu by Thomopoulos, are $200 per person or $350 per couple.

Einstein on Food & Wine is sponsored in part by Bay Area Medical Resources, Inc.; Service Systems Associates; Raymond James Financial; Macy's; Art Lipo; KPMG; the Law Offices of Jeanne Coleman; Phelps Dunbar, LLP; Hanna, Lemar & Morris, CPA's, PA; Rivero Gordimer & Company; Wit Ostrenko; and Molly Demeulenaere. Both evenings benefit the education programs at MOSI. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 813-987-6000 or visit MOSI.org.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Auberge Resorts Earn Top Honors on Conde Nast Traveler's 2014 Gold List

Five Auberge Resorts properties throughout North America have been recognized by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler by naming them to the publication’s 2014 Gold List, an exclusive collection of the world’s top hotels, resorts and cruise lines. Auberge du Soleil, Calistoga Ranch, Esperanza Resort, the Inn at Palmetto Bluff, and Solage Calistoga were ranked among the world’s best; their scores landed the signature properties on the annual list, which is showcased in the January 2014 issue.

Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Gold List identifies the best of the best: the gold standard of hotels, resorts, and cruise lines. Nearly 80,000 of the world's most discerning travelers (a record-setting number) produced a final selection of the top places in the world by participating in the annual Readers' Choice survey. Consistency is rewarded: those who make the Gold List five years in a row earn Platinum Circle status. Auberge du Soliel, Esperanza, and the Inn at Palmetto Bluff boast this honor.

“We’re so pleased to have our resorts on this coveted list – we strive to stay on it year after year by crafting personalized experiences at our signature properties, which are true gems in some of the best destinations in the world,” said Mark Harmon, Managing Partner, Auberge Resorts. A complete list with scores and reader comments about each property follows:

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff (Bluffton, South Carolina)

Overall Score: 97.7 (Platinum Circle)

Reader comments: "This will be the best inn you’ve ever stayed at," by the May River amid acres of forests and ancient freshwater rice fields. Rustic cottages are "quiet, secluded, immaculate, and spacious," with screened porches, white-wood doorways, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, wide pine-plank floors, and hipped metal roofs. The food at the River House Restaurant is "fantastic."

Auberge du Soleil (Napa Valley, California)

Overall Score: 96.7 (Platinum Circle)

Reader comments: The "outstanding luxury hotel" is set on 33 acres of vineyards and olive groves—"the views are spectacular." "Sumptuous cottages" done in sun and earth tones have wood-burning fireplaces and refrigerators stocked with local wines and cheeses; bathrooms come with skylights and flat-screen TVs. The "stunning restaurant" serves wine-country cuisine with French Mediterranean influences, and its terrace has heaters for dining out on cool evenings. Enjoy Italian ices and chilled towels at the pool and Reiki at La Pagode, an Asian-style pavilion.

Esperanza (Los Cabos, Mexico)

Overall score: 96.1 (Platinum Circle)

Reader comments: Comprising clifftop sand-hued casitas and suites and three- and four-bedroom villas, this resort has rooms that all face the Sea of Cortés, some with private balconies with infinity-edge hot tubs. "Staff are unbelievably fantastic," even providing complimentary shoulder massages upon arrival. Cocina del Mar, which spills over three terraces, serves fresh local seafood. "Whale-watching from the pool" and "one of the most beautiful spas" are among the experiences guests can anticipate.

Solage Calistoga (Napa Valley, California)

Overall Score: 94.0

Reader comments: Located on 25 acres in the heart of Napa Valley, this newcomer offers guests "a beautiful and pampered experience that never disappoints." Earth-tone contemporary guest rooms in buildings with yellow siding are "absolutely stunning," with vaulted ceilings, Italian linens, and stone showers with pebble flooring. The hotel’s "outstanding service" includes complimentary use of cruiser bikes with each bungalow.

Calistoga Ranch (Napa Valley, Calfornia)

Overall Score: 90.7

Reader comments: The resort was designed to re-create a vintner’s estate. Cedar-shingle guest lodges built near lakes and streams and under trees merge indoor and outdoor spaces and have fireplaces and outdoor showers. Designed with tall panes of glass and looking onto woodlands and Lake Lommel, the Lakehouse serves "the most delicious wine and amazing food," relying on organic ingredients from local farmers.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Contemporary Art and Artists Arrive in Palm Springs During Modernism Week February 2014

Palm Springs is known for design, style and luxury. In February, thousands arrive to explore the best of these through fine art, architecture and modernism events. The hottest show in February for fine art collectors, buyers and aficionados as well as the museum curator audience is The 3rd Annual Palm Springs Fine Art Fair (PSFAF) taking place February 13-16, 2014.

After its first two years, the Fair has already become a must see for collectors and fans of Contemporary Art. A veritable pop-up museum of modern art valued at over $100 million from over 60 international galleries will be presented in the exhibit hall at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

The extraordinary exhibition curates a dynamic review of works by artists including Karel Appel, Le Corbusier, Henry Jackson, Frank Stella, Raymond Jonson, Pablo Picasso, Kenneth Noland, Jennifer Bartlett, Chul Hyan Ahn, David Middlebrook, and many more.

With recent art auction house sales breaking records in New York for contemporary art, coupled with the frenzy of buying at Art Basel Miami week, it appears this genre has a renewed popularity. “This is Contemporary and Modern art that is alive and in the moment,” says producer Rick Friedman, “Collectors perceive that art is not only beauty, but also as an alternative investment.” Palm Springs Fine Art Fair is the hottest ticket on the Fine Art winter circuit not only because of the beautiful destination, but also because of the quality of the art, the artists and the excitement of what’s in the show.

One piece that will be dazzling the audience will be Steve Maloney’s Ride-em-Cowboy, a sculpture created from a Bell Jet Ranger Helicopter and a Long Horn Steer. “Palm Springs is bigger than life and we felt Steve’s piece captures both contemporary and future,” continues Friedman.

The larger-than-life-size Ride-em-Cowboy is a decommissioned bone yard chopper, engine-free yet structurally sound, dressed to the hilt inside and out with thousands of colored gemstones; old cowhide chairs; authentic Longhorn Steer skull; iPad with virtual flight simulator; Swarovski crystal chandelier; a built-in high-polished lapped and riveted aluminum bar inspired by a vintage Airstream trailer; hand-war-painted Indian Motorcycle front fender lights; yards of LED lighting strips; and vinyl cowhide wrap exterior. “The use of repurposed materials creates a familiarity and allows people to relate to the work in a personal way. Steve is unafraid to bombard our senses – and our sense of humor. It’s great to see contemporary art that makes people smile,” says James Carona, owner of Heather James Gallery.

The exhibition also includes expert panel discussions that are standing room only. “Whether you are buying your first piece or have a collection that is museum-worthy, the panels are there to inform and create dialog about art, collecting and the artists represented,” says Friedman.

Tickets are on sales at PalmSpringsFineArtFair.com. The VIP Black Card pass provides exclusive access to the Opening Preview Party. General admission is $25. The Palm Springs Fine Art Fair is produced by the Hamptons Expo Group of Southampton, New York. They produce 4 other events throughout the year: ArtHamptons, ArtAspen, The Houston Fine Art Fair, and Silicon Valley Contemporary.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay Presents a Wine Blending Workshop

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is pleased to present a Wine Blending Workshop where guests will blend and create their own bottle of wine. Held on Saturday, January 18, 2014 from 2 to 4 p.m., the workshop is $75 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Guests will swirl, sniff, and taste glasses of single varietal cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and cabernet franc that will be blended together to create a personally crafted wine. The resort’s blending guide will lead guests through an education of grape varietals and a blending session using graduated cylinders and beakers.

Once the perfect percentages of grapes have been determined, the wine will be bottled, corked and highlighted with a label designed during the workshop. The Wine Blending Workshop includes education and instruction of wine blending, light hors d’oeuvres and one 750 ml bottle of wine. Advance reservations are required and can be made by calling (650) 712-7000.

Situated 23 miles southwest of the San Francisco International Airport, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a 261-room destination spa and golf coastal hotel and the San Francisco Bay Area’s only oceanfront resort. Set atop a rugged bluff overlooking 50 miles of pristine California coastline, the timeless oceanfront estate provides guests with a relaxed yet refined experience, whether for a romantic getaway, meeting or special event.

For more information on fall activities, please contact The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay at (650) 712-7000. For room reservations, contact a travel professional, visit RitzCarlton.com/hmb or call Ritz-Carlton worldwide reservations at (800) 241-3333. Visit ExperienceHalfMoonBay.com to learn more about the destination.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Wine Country Gift Baskets Now Offers Fresh Fruit Gift Baskets

Wine Country Gift Baskets, the premier supplier of gourmet food and wine gift baskets, recently expanded their selection of fruit gift baskets. Fresh apples, pears and oranges arrive at their peak ripeness with an assortment of other Wine Country favorites including Ghirardelli chocolate, crackers, Sonoma Jacks cheese spread, truffles and chocolate gingerbread cookies. Two of their more popular fruit basket selections include your choice of Cliffside Vineyards cabernet sauvignon or chardonnay.

“We were a little surprised that customers were asking for fruit gift baskets with wine; most of our wine gift baskets have specially selected sweet and savory assortments that complement those specific wines in that gift basket,” says David Casares, Wine Country Gift Baskets Director of Sales. “But I guess it goes to show you, wine makes everything better.”

Fruit gift baskets and fruit gift towers start under $25. The Deluxe Fruit Assortment, a bounty of goodness with 7 oranges, 5 apples, 5 pears chocolate, crackers and more, is $79.95 with free shipping. Not quite as healthy but just as exciting are their assortments of chocolate dipped strawberries and apples, some drizzled with caramel or rolled in nuts!

Every fresh fruit gift basket comes with a free personalized greeting card so you can send friends a customized greeting.

To order your fruit gift baskets, wine gifts or fruit and wine gift baskets, go to WineCountryGiftBaskets.com. Gift consultants are also available by phone 24/7 at (800) 394-0394 or online chat.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Walter Otero Contemporary Art Celebrates Artist Triumphs at Bass Museum of Art

In what has become the standard for a perfect balance of art and party during Art Basel, Walter Otero Contemporary Art, recently named by Modern Painters as one of the top galleries in North America, celebrated his annual party at the Bass Museum of Art during Art Basel Miami Beach.

Last year's event was hard to top, yet this year's extravaganza was all the talk once again. With exquisite food, drinks, impeccable service and decor, guests were dancing until 2 a.m. Though the event was scheduled to end at 1 a.m., Museum Director Silvia Cubina offered that the party must continue.

"We are one month away from commemorating our San Juan gallery's first anniversary and I am pleased to have celebrated this achievement with the artists, collectors and friends who have contributed to our success," said Gallery owner Walter Otero.

Embracing the atmosphere was a video projection of vintage movie clips collaged between footage of the gallery's artists, featuring recent art projects from Allora & Calzadilla, angel Otero, Andres Serrano, Arnaldo Roche, Axel Ruiz, Carlos Betancourt, Fabian Marcaccio, Gamaliel Rodriguez, Hector Arce, Ignacio Gonzalez-Lang, Luis Vidal, Livia Ortiz, Michael Linares, Monica Rodriguez, Osvaldo Budet, Rafael Vega, Ramon Miranda Beltran, Shonah Trescott and Victor Vazquez.

An eclectic mix of international VIP guests was kept at awe all night by the contemporary atmosphere and transcultural-mixed music from Pavoriti and Frank Sinatra, to Marc Anthony, Freddie Mercury, Daft Punk and Iris Chacon.

Guests included Maria Britto, Carla Camacho (Lehmann Maupin Gallery), Jennifer Johnson, Joe Duke, Kymberly Marciano, Hale Salzburg (Thaddaeus Ropac Gallery), Richard Jay Alexander (Barbara Streisand's director) Richard Blanco (inaugural poet), Puerto Rican art collectors: Ednita and Rolando Jimenez, Elena and Yamil Rivera, Mitty and Francisco Romero and Tony Pabon; Marianne Ramirez (Museo de Arte Contemporaneo PR); Dra. Lourdes Ramos (Museo de Arte de PR), Puerto Rican Chef Jose Enrique (Food & Wine's Best New Chefs of 2013); Simon Baeyertz (New Zealand entrepreneur); among others.

Walter Otero Contemporary Art's artists were all over Basel Miami. Carlos Betancourt was part of the official Art Basel studio visits program, also exhibiting at the recently inaugurated PAMM Museum; Michael Linares at De la Cruz Collection and the Bass Museum of Art and Angel Otero at Locust Project. It was an extraordinary reason to celebrate!

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

XXIV Karat Champagne Contains Actual Gold Flecks

XXIV Karat, a Grande Cuvée infused with elegant, edible 24-karat gold leaf debuts at Bevmo in time for the holiday party season. The Arizona-based brand of champagne is now available at all Valley Bevmo locations. The sparkling gold flecked champagne will be featured at Bevmo’s tasting featuring from two to four p.m. on December 15, 2013 at 7129 East Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale.

Founded by Nicholas Cowherd and Kegan Klein—Arizona natives and Arizona State University alumni—XXIV Karat is an exclusive champagne that combines an incomparable taste with the unique experience of drinking a gold infused bubbly. Bevmo offers Valley revelers one of the most extensive and exciting selections of holiday spirits.

“Our champagne is a perfect complement to Bevmo. We are happy to offer the Valley the perfect champagne in time for the holidays. It infuses excitement and elegance into any celebration whether big holiday parties or intimate dinners,” said founder Nicholas Cowherd.

XXIV Karat Grand Cuvée has a distinguished taste profile that’s garnered attention and awards. It has nuances of pear and pineapple that mingle with lively green apple and toasty coconut. The Producing vineyards current industry accolades include:

• Silver – 2012 US National Wine Competition
• Best of Class – 2012 Consumer Wine Awards at Lodi
• Gold – 2012 Consumer Wine Awards at Lodi

The Arizona-based brand is distributed through Young’s Market Company and in addition to Bevmo, can currently be found at many fine clubs and restaurants in the metropolitan area.

For more information, go to XXIVKarat.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Chabot Space and Science Center and Dashe Cellars Launch THE COMET Wine

Chabot Space & Science Center, in partnership with Oakland-based Dashe Cellars, announces the launch of THE COMET, a new wine produced and named to honor the Comet ISON, the recent comet attracting extraordinary media attention in November.

THE COMET follows in a centuries old tradition of "comet vintages," in which vintners would create a special wine to commemorate years in which major comets passed Earth. Dashe Cellars has renewed the tradition with a unique limited edition wine, and 10% of the proceeds from sales of THE COMET will be donated to Chabot Space & Science Center.

According to Dashe Cellars, "THE COMET was created by carefully selecting individual barrels of old-vine zinfandel made from the Todd Brothers Ranch in Alexander Valley, a high end vineyard in Sonoma County. These selected barrels were then blended with a small amount of dark, intense Petite Sirah to add balance. The wine include with intense aromas of black raspberry, wild cherry, and black currant fruit, with highlights of chocolate and black pepper spice. In the mouth, the wine has a great velvety texture and explosive flavors of blackberry, cassis, plum, clove, and black pepper, with a long, spicy finish that lasts for minutes. A rich, full-bodied wine, THE COMET has the intensity and complexity that is the perfect accompaniment to holiday feasts of any type."

Chabot CEO Alexander Zwissler stated, "Our partnership with Dashe Cellars is based on our mutual appreciation of science. Michael and Anne Dashe – both with science backgrounds – share our commitment to strengthening science education in our community. We hope Chabot supporters and wine enthusiasts will gift THE COMET to their friends and family, and spark discussions of what's happening in astronomy and science."

Although the Comet ISON was predicted to be "the comet of the century" by some astronomers, it fizzled out spectacularly on Thanksgiving Day after its perihelion, or journey close to the Sun. THE COMET wine is expected to have a longer life, but production is limited to 100 cases. THE COMET is available directly from Dashe Cellars at $35 a bottle, or by the case, and can be ordered online at DasheCellars.com or may be purchased from Dashe Cellars at the tasting room, located at 55 4th St. in the Jack London Square Historic Warehouse district.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Italian Wine Sets a New Trend Among Russian Consumers

The tenth edition of Vinitaly Russia opens with a flurry of bottles and ends with a smile as producers, importers, journalists and key players of the Russian world of wine share with Vinitaly International their optimistic view of the future of Italian wine in a difficult but promising market where all that is Italian has become fashionable and stylish.

“Italian wine is a great success story in the Russian market, it sells more and more and we love to spend money on it: we love Italy, we love to go to Italy and we love to spend money on Italian wine inside Russia. Italy is fashionable and very successful” said Igor Serdyuk, nominated in 2007 the "Most Influential Wine Writer" by Meininger's Who's Who in Russia and recently appointed Chief analyst for Simple Wine News.

The love for Italian wine, culture and food is also shared by top brasses of some of the most important Importing Companies in Russia such as Irina Fomina, Chairman of the Board at MBG and Dmitry Pinsky, Manging Director of DPTrade who also stressed that the strength of Italian wines in Russia owes a lot to the great success of Italian cuisine: “You can count hundreds and hundreds of Italian restaurants in Moscow and Trattorias and that's what is supporting the sales of Italian wines. Another advantage to Italian wines is a much better price to quality ratio than that of French wines. If we consider our portfolio, our sales are 40% Italian wines in value and only 22 to 25 % French. I personally consider the destiny of Italian wines in Russia as absolutely positive.”

Russia is undoubtedly a market that we need to target since it quite obviously loves the Italian style.” Says Daniela Mastrobernardino from Terradora Winery and President of Movimento del Turismo del Vino. “Vinitaly International is the best way to promote Italian wine especially since it helps consumers acquire a better knowledge of the excellence and richness of Italian produce”. Slow Food’s wine guide, Slow Wine, is at its third stop, after New York and Hong Kong, of a year long collaboration with Vinitaly International: “I am positively impressed by this event, not only because it has been a success but also because of the high level of interest shown by operators and consumers” explains Fabio Giavedoni. “ We know we have a great appeal here in Russia but I did not expect attendees to be so interested not only in the wine itself but also in the land and the way in which wine is produced. This is exactly the message we try to convey to all our readers though our guide.”

“This year’s edition of Vinitaly Russia was mostly focused on the quality of attendees rather than the quantity, thanks to a strict selection carried out through a double level registration system” explained Stevie Kim, Managing Director of Vinitaly International. “Talking with importers, journalists and producers during the event the general sentiment was that Italian wine has become the new trend of the moment in Russia. If we take advantage of this tendency and work as a team we can strengthen our presence in the Russian Market. In the mean time, we have been trying to help people live our events in real time through a continuous stream of videos, photos and information, which were published throughout the event on all our social media channels. We don’t presume to be perfect but we are really keen on engaging as much as possible all those producers, importers and Italian wine drinkers who follow us with such enthusiasm.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Inn on First Offers New Fly Fishing Package in Napa CA

The Inn on First is proud to be the first providers of a new fly fishing package in Napa Valley. For the outdoorsman and outdoorswoman, The Inn on First wanted to provide new and varied experiences to enhance guest visits.

The Inn on First works hard to add value to guest stays in Napa Valley, including adding new activity packages so guests can enjoy the outdoor beauty of the valley outside of the traditional wine activities. Adventurous guests can also spend time hiking, bicycling, golfing and fishing with the gorgeous Napa Valley scenery as the backdrop.

For couples, these outdoor excursions will certainly enhance any romantic interlude at The Inn on First. The fly fishing package is $525 per couple and $325 for one person. The inn needs three days notice to reserve the space, 50 percent deposit and has a 72-hour cancellation policy.

Guests will begin their day at 7 a.m. in the parking lot of the inn where they will meet the guide, Richard Loft, who will offer an early morning continental breakfast. Guests will need to sign all the necessary paperwork, Loft will hand out a map, and guests will follow him for 45 minutes up into the hills beyond the Napa Valley.

Upon arriving to the river, Loft will suit guests up in waders and boots and explain the basics of fly fishing. After a few lessons of casting and reeling, the real fun begins! Wading out into the river, guests begin the process of catch and release and should plan on a minimum of two to three hours in the water. Snacks and water will be available during the time fishing. When guests are finished, they can sit down to enjoy a sandwich lunch and soak up the beauty of Napa County wilderness.

In general, guests can plan on returning to the inn no later than 1 p.m. which still leaves time for wine tasting in the afternoon. (Disclaimer: As with all fishing excursions, expect to have fun, but catching of fish is not guaranteed.) Fishing in the State of California requires a license, which can be procured from the California website or guests can visit Sweeney’s in Napa, located at 1537 Imola Ave West. Guests may also call Sweeney’s for information, 707 255-5544. Their store hours are as follows: Mon-Fri 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sun 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Inn on First provides romantic getaways in the Napa Valley that will surpass all expectations. They can offer landscapes of rolling hills and beautiful vineyards of the entire Napa Valley. With a location that is one of the most sought after destinations in the country, the Inn and rooms are the perfect complement to a Napa Valley experience and make for a romantic atmosphere for loved ones. For more information, please visit their website at TheInnOnFirst.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

New Zealand Creates World's Largest Pop-Up Book in Honor of The Hobbit

As movie fans await the imminent release of the second film of The Hobbit Trilogy – and another epic dose of Middle-earth landscapes – New Zealand has taken a cue from Hollywood by unveiling a giant pop-up book of New Zealand in Los Angeles.

The country that provided the epic scenery that backdrops The Hobbit Trilogy movies has installed the world's largest pop-up book - occupying an area roughly the size of two tennis courts and 50 feet high – in the grounds of the Beverly Hilton hotel, that shows how film fantasy becomes reality for visitors to New Zealand.

The pop-up book of New Zealand is on site for five days coinciding with the Hollywood world premiere of The Hobbit : The Desolation of Smaug – produced and directed by acclaimed Kiwi film-maker Sir Peter Jackson. It is divided into four sets representing new filming locations from the film – Hidden Bay (Turoa, Ohakune), Forest River (Pelorus River, Marlborough) Lake-town (Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook), and Beorn's House (Paradise, Queenstown).

With original pieces of the actual movie sets and living features of the real landscapes, the pop-up book employs multi-media production techniques and film-making wizardry to show how the film fantasy is firmly attached to the real life Middle-earth landscapes of New Zealand.

Guests will literally step into the giant book and take a unique journey through four of the principal filming locations for the Trilogy, combining the actuality of the book, and the magic of the movies with the reality of the Middle-earth locations.

Authentic props used for the pop-up book of New Zealand include the giant wooden armchair from Beorn's house, two-level waterside houses and a boat from Lake-town and the gigantic brooding bust of the dwarf king Thror that stood over the back entrance to Lonely Mountain.

It will set the stage for media activity and cast interviews with The Hobbit Trilogy stars for the media junket based around the LA premiere of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug on Monday and provide an innovative setting for New Zealand hospitality and film business events.



Access to the pop-up book of New Zealand will be reserved for a series of invitation-only events, but a select group of lucky film fans will have the chance to browse the pages as part of a special public tour this Wednesday.

Jackson's epic Tolkien-inspired productions of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies have created a legendary fan following and been at the source, over the past decade, of a film tourism phenomenon for his home country New Zealand.

The much anticipated The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, a production of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, is scheduled for worldwide release on 13 December, 2013.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.