Hot Picks - Sonoma Valley, California Wine Country
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Discover Sonoma Valley's rustic surroundings, warm,
laid back hospitality and over 300 award wining wineries ready to welcome
you for a sip, a smile and a stay that will last until your next visit.
Located just 30 miles from San Francisco, the verdant
landscape that stretches from the valley to the Pacific Coast, is home
to several microclimates that beckon with hiking, kayaking, biking and
wine tasting at boutique wineries.
The charming town squares, redolent with great restaurants
and unique shops are a walker's joy. Cozy bed & breakfasts, and
hip, upscale hotels and resorts offer deluxe accommodations with all
the amenities. Sonoma is stunning!
The Sonoma Valley is a great culinary and travel destination.
Here are some options for your visit!
Click on the picture to find the information you want.
Hot Picks:
Sonoma Valley, California Wine Country
Where to Stay
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Sonoma Valley
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn
Sonoma, California

.
Photo by Michael Reiss
As you approach the entrance to the Fairmont Sonoma
Mission Inn and Spa from Boyes. Blvd. your eyes widen with awe
at the sprawling grounds studded with mature oaks and pines and the
surrounding Sonoma hills planted with vineyards.

These are the magnificent and carefully manicured grounds of the
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Set unobtrusively in the verdant, lush landscape are mission-style
buildings. With a long history related to the hot springs found on
the property, major renovation returned the property to its 1920's
grandeur, and the Spa, added in 1981, now attracts visitors from around
the globe.
Since then, the most recent additions and renovations include the
expansion of the Spa---to 40,000 sq. ft. Now the Spa boasts indoor
and outdoor spaces--beautifully appointed and surrounded with lush
landscaping-- making this a true European Spa and world-class resort.

"The Bathhouse" at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa
is a calm heaven of beauty and repose.
Photo by Michael Reiss
True to its Spanish mission design, the interior spaces
of the hotel are authentic in the use of materials that create warm,
intimate spaces, a sense of place full of history and charm. Rooms
in the main building are small but well equipped. The junior suites
provide the space you expect from this caliber of property.
The rooms are just the beginning of your experience.
Many stay at the resort and return expressly to utilize the world-class
resources of the Spa. Think of every imaginable treatment and then
some! This spa has it all! A signature feature is "The Bathhouse"
with its own concierge who will explain the suggested ritual to follow
for maximum benefit from the thermal waters used in all the pools.

Relax in the mineral pool heated to body temperature or take an "Aqua
Yoga Class" at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Before indulging in a spa treatment, plan to join one
or several of the classes. If relaxation and renewal is on your list,
the "Aqua Yoga Class" will deliver. All of those challenging
positions of land yoga are a cinch when done in a mineral pool heated
to body temperature and lightly salinated to increase your buoyancy.
After 45 minutes you are a budding Buddha---ready to take on the rigors
of a golf game, wine tasting and shopping on the Sonoma Square before
dinner at the Inn's Michelin-starred restaurant, Sante. (Please
see review of Sante under "Where To Eat," which follows).

You will return to relax and refresh at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission
Inn and Spa.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn &
Spa
100 Boyes Boulevard
Sonoma, CA 95476-1447
(707) 938-9000
www.fairmont.com/sonoma/
Madrona Mansion
Healdsburg, Sonoma Valley, California

Photo by Michael Reiss
In today's 24/7 world of never ending connectivity
and social networking, where do you go to unplug?
When nothing but the best will do, its the historic Madrona Manor.
Nestled in the hills above the Dry Creek Valley of Sonoma County,
the Madrona Manor is an exceptional Victorian estate surrounded
by eight acres of wooded and landscaped grounds. The Mansion, built
in 1881, has been a destination for discerning guests seeking a stay
in the gracious wine country of Northern California since 1981.
Every aspect of the hotel and its grounds speaks to the relentless
pursuit of quality, authenticity and a standard of excellence that
has garnered this property numerous awards from the most reputable
circles.

The interior of the 1881 Madrona Manor has been meticulously
restored---complete with authentic period furniture.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Each room at the Madrona Manor is uniquely decorated
in period with the utmost attention to detail. Luxurious bed and bath
linens and ammenities are waiting to coddle you.

Each room of the expansive 30-room Madrona Manor is unique
and exquisitely furnished
Photo by Michael Reiss
But before you give in to the luxury of your room,
explore the magnificent grounds. Impeccably tended lawns, flowers,
fountains, pools, orchards, herb and vegetable gardens,and surrounding
vineyards all beckon to you as you wander through your surroundings.
As night falls, consider dining in the Michelin starred restaurant
before retiring..No worries about that extra sip of wine or port,
when your room is a mere staircase away. Awaken to the sounds of nature
as you sit on the balcony, while the smells of breakfast tempt you
to see what's cooking.

This is the beautifully-maintained swimming pool of the Madrona
Manor set amongst lush foliage.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Enjoy breakfast in any of the elegant dining rooms and make your selections
from a bountiful buffet sure to start your day on the right foot.
All of this pleasure just one mile from hopping Healdsburg and the
endless lure of the surrounding vineyards just waiting to be savored.
If this isn't enough of an enticement to unplug and get reconnected
to earthly delights, stay an extra day!

Enjoy the delights of the Madrona Manor's own
organic vegetable garden found on the grounds.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
Madrona Manor
1001 Westside Road
Healdsburg
California 95448
Tel: (800) 258-4003
Tel: (707) 433-4231
www.Madrona Manor.com
Les Mars Hotel

Photo by Michael Reiss
Les Mars Hotel is a 16 room luxury hotel in the
heart of Healdsburg, which puts a capital "C" on the term
"class act."

Les Mars Hotel, located in downtown Healdsburg, offers outstanding
luxury and comfort.
Photo by Michael Reiss
From the moment you enter the lobby of Les Mars Hotel you know
you have entered an elegant space. In the heart of Victorian and red
barn wine country architecture, at Les Mars you are a guest
in a refined, French country villa.

Every inch of
Le Mars Hotel exudes sophistication with
a French touch.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Mars family invites you to make yourself at home,
a sentiment which starts with a warm welcome from the staff who discreetly
inquire about your preferences, so that they may make your stay as
comfortable as possible.

Each suite at
Le Mars Hotel is
beautifully and comfortably appointed.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The attention to detail is seen and experienced at every turn. Each
room, uniquely furnished with antiques and family heirlooms, is decadently
comfortable. Curl up in your bed made up with the finest of Italian
linens, enjoy the fireplace and your in-room media center, or enjoy
your Bulgari soaps as you soak in the Jacuzzi bubble tub. Smell the
fresh roses placed in your room and bath. Taste the wine and artisan
cheese sampling offered each evening and delight in the three course
breakfast prepared for you by Chef Patrick Brown.

Personal attention is a hallmark
at Les Mars Hotel. Here
Chef Patrick Brown presents
a guest with a made-to-order breakfast dish.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The staff, inspired by the Mars family passion for hospitality
and lead by Hotel Manager, Joel Holland will ensure a memorable
stay. This is wine country living in style. It is a luxury once experienced,
which then becomes a necessity to repeat!

This is the beautifully heated swimming
pool at Les Mars Hotel..
Photo by Michael Reiss
Les Mars Hotel
27 North St.
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 433 4211
http://www.lesmarshotel.com/
MacArthur Place

Photo by Michael Reiss
MacArthur Place, Sonoma's historic
country inn and spa, offers you all the luxury of a finely appointed
hotel with all of the charm of the countryside.

MacArthur Place's guest rooms are located in a
park like setting among trees and carefully placed sculpture.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Just four blocks from the Sonoma Plaza
and all of its browsing possibilities, MacArthur Place offers
a gracious garden setting that is guaranteed to soothe frazzled nerves
and provide the perfect escape form city life, as well as the homebase
for visiting Sonoma's many wineries.

This is one of MacArthur Place's guest rooms,
beautifully appointed with warm country colors, complete with fireplace
and flat-screen TV
Photo by Michael Reiss
The luxuriously appointed rooms provide
every modern day feature and offer the best of city and country living.
The swimming pool and spa complete the
picture of a heavenly getaway, just 45 minutes from San Francisco.

MacArthur Place has
a first- rate spa, swimming pool and fitness center.
Photo by Michael Reiss
MacArthur Place
Sonoma's Historic Country Inn & Spa
29 E. MacArthur St.,
Sonoma, California 95476
(707) 933-3191
(707) 938-2929
http://www.macarthurplace.com
Case Ranch Inn

Photo by Michael Reiss
A trip to the Sonoma wine country inspires dreams about
living the good life here and wondering just what it might be like.
One of the ways to explore the answers is to sample the lodging and
hospitality of innkeepers who are living their dream. Stay with Diana
Van Ry and Allen Tilton at their lovingly restored Case Ranch Inn.

The meticulously restored
Case Ranch Inn keeps the vibrant colors of
days gone by.
Photo by Michael Reiss
As you approach the Case Ranch Inn, this Historic
Landmark home and property, you marvel at the peace and tranquility
and its resonance with the surrounding landscape. The moment you are
greeted by your hosts, you know you've selected the right inn. They
exude the warmth, passion and dedication that is a requisite for a successful
bed and breakfast. Their personal story of how they single-handedly
restored their beloved inn will leave you spellbound.

At the
Case Ranch Inn Innkeeper Diana Van Ry exudes
warmth and welcoming, as she serves a gourmet breakfast to a guest.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Their devotion to organic farming is evidenced by Diana's
delicious and healthful breakfast. Besides maintaining the grounds and
property, Allan has expert knowledge of beer making and he delights
in offering"Beer Tasting Seminars" which are listed under
"Specials" on their website.

You can be as active as you like in the
rich and fascinating Sonoma Wine Country, or you can laze the day away
on the porch of the Case Ranch Inn..
Photo by Michael Reiss
The accommodations are more than comfortable with personal
attention evidenced in the many small but significant gestures that
make you feel like cherished friends visiting for a spell. Allan walked
the property with us and gave us the inside scoop on his newly installed
solar panels. Diana, knowing that we had been traveling for a while,
offered to wash some of our clothes.
So, visit again you will because the warm hospitality
offered by Diana and Allan will leave you coming back for more!
Case Ranch Inn Bed and Breakfast
7446 Poplar Dr.
Forestville, Ca.
707 887 8711
877.887.8711
http://www.caseranchinn.com
Hotel Healdsburg
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hotel Healdsburg, a luxury resort and spa in the
town of the same name, offers a unique experience while visiting the
wine country or as a destination in its own right. Located on the historic
town square, this newly built, designer hotel offers modern elegance
and great attention to detail in a sleek stylish idiom.

The Hotel Healdsburg sits facing the Town Square
in Healdsburg.
Photo by Michael Reiss
From Frette linens and robes to teak furniture, to wood
floors, to Peet's Coffee ready to brew in your own in-room French Press,
the attention to design and detail is evident but understated. The effect
is low-keyed elegance at the Hotel Healdsburg.
Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street
Healdsburg, California 95448
(707) 431-2800
(707) 431-0414
www.hotelhealdsburg.com
Hot Picks:
Sonoma Valley, California Wine Country
Where To Eat
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Sonoma Valley
Santé
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
Sonoma, California

Photo by Michael Reiss
Santé, is
the restaurant located in the main building of The Fairmont
Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa.
When the French use the word "santé" to
offer a toast, it means "to your health!" In this case, it
also means "to your lucky tastbuds!,"since you will have a
most enjoyable dining experience as well.
As a tribute to all the best and healthiest that Sonoma produces and
with an obvious appreciation of the local purveyors, Executive Chef
Bruno Tison and Chef de Cuisine Andrew Cain elevate the local
ingredients to a Michelin-starred level.
Every aspect---from the greeting at reception---to the attentive waitstaff,
to the wine service, to the presentation of the dishes, to the taste
on the palate--- is executed at the highest level. Even the bread and
butter service offers selections that far exceed the expected, making
for a delicious start to your meal.
Each menu item sounds better than the last, so the obvious choice is
the Tasting Menu. This gives you the chance to savor several of the
Chef's signature dishes without having to choose.
The wine pairings offered impeccable flavor profiles that enhanced the
stellar meal.
Sonoma is sensational and Santé,
highlights the best of the valley!

Santé's elagant food and
wine service starts with an amuse-bouche, complements
of the Chef.
Photo by Michael Reiss
TASTING MENU
AMUSE-BOUCHE
SOUP N SALAD
PETITE DELTA ASPARAGUS SALAD,SAUCE GRIBICHE
CHILLED ASPARAGUS SOUP ESPRESSO
SWEET CORN AND BLACK TRUFFLE RISOTTO - PARMIGIANO-REGGIANO AND SWEET
CORN FOAM
BUTTER-POACHED MAINE LOBSTER - FOREST MUSHROOM TART,MELTED KING RICHARD
LEEKS,SAUCE AMÉRICAINE
GRILLED SIRLOIN OF AMERICAN KOBE STYLE BEEF - TWICE-BAKED FINGERLING
POTATOES, ROASTED GARLIC PURÉE, BROCCOLINI RABE, FOIE GRAS BORDELAISE
CHEESE SELECTIONS
SANTES MANHATTAN
BOURBON AND SWEET VERMOUTH SORBET
WITH BING CHERRY GELEE
MANJARI CHOCOLATE DARIOLE - PEANUT BUTTER GANACHE
BANANA ICE CREAM, CARAMEL SAUCE

Santé's refined cheese course
features both local and European selections served table-side.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Santé
The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
100 Boyes Blvd.
Sonoma, California
TEL (707) 938-9000
http://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/GuestServices/Restaurants/SanteRestaurant.htm
Mosaic
Forestville, Sonoma Valley, California

Photo by Michael Reiss
Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar
Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar is a culinary
"find" located in Forestville, a small town just outside of
Sonoma.
Chef Tai Olesky personally renovated the restaurant.
He has created the menu and oversees every aspect of his Forestville
culinary hot spot. Chef Olesky's talent can be seen and tasted
in every morsel of his kitchen. His dishes are beautifully presented
and expertly executed.
The dining room, wine bar and outdoor patio area are quintessential
wine country with a touch of city chic. This is a winning combination
in an area that has raised the bar on good eating.

This is Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar's lively
and high-energy dining room.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Roasted Butternut Squash -D'anjou Pear Soup - splash of cream, creme
fraiche, toasted pumpkin seeds
Roasted Prawn - Macadamia Nut-Cilantro-Citrus Butter, on Baby Arugula-Shaved
Fennel
Favorite Entrees:
Duck Confit - Cannelini Beans with Panchetta, Braised Rappini, &
Prickley Pear-Pinot Gastrique
Coffee Encrusted filet Mignon - Mushrooms deglazed with Madeira, Caramelized
onion Mashed potatoes, Chocolate CabernetDemi-Glace, Blue Cheese Compound
Butter & Truffle Oil
Favorite Dessert
Organic Berry Crisp - with French vanilla Ice Cream

The "Coffe Encrusted filet Mignon - Mushrooms deglazed with Madeira,
Caramelized onion Mashed" is one of Mosaic Restaurant
and Wine Bar's signature dishes.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Bar
6675 Front St.
Forestville, Ca.
707 887 7503
The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant

Photo by Michael Reiss
This remote Russian River farmhouse in Forestville is home to a gastronomic
temple, The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant, where tourists and
locals delight in a refined country ambiance with cuisine to match.
Seasonally and freshness are the hallmarks of Executive Chef Steve
Litke's cuisine.
Wine Director/Sommelier Geoff Kruth's stellar wine list offers
complementary pairings.
Dining room Maitre'd Andreas Willausch is the consummate host
and keeper of the restaurant's justly famous cheese cart.
If you are looking for an impeccable dining experience in the middle
of Sonoma, The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant is the spot.

The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant is located in the beautiful
Sonoma country side of Forestville.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Breast of Squab and wild mushroom Terrine - black Trumpet mushroom
and truffle vinaigrette
Sautéed Artisan Foie Gras - confit of pineapple, toasted pistachio,
black pepper gastrique, housemade brioche
Favorite Entrees:
Niman Ranch Pork "Osso Buco" - celery root-potato puree,
mirepoix of vegetables
Grilled Angus Ribeye - Yukon potato puree, bone marrow flan, Chanterelle
butter
Favorite Dessert
Warm granny Smith Apple Galette - calvados strup, vanilla bean gelato

The "Sautéed Artisan Foie Gras - confit of pineapple, toasted
pistachio, black pepper gastrique, housemade brioche" is one of
the creative dishes offered at The Farmhouse Inn and Restaurant.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
Farmhouse Inn Restaurant
Farmhouse Inn
7871 River Rd. (Wohlar St.)
Forestville, CA 95436
707-887-3300
www.farmhouseinn.com
El Dorado Kitchen

Photo by Michael Reiss
At El Dordo Kitchen there is nothing "historical" about
the restaurant, even though it is part of the historic landmark El
Dordo Hotel.
El Dordo Kitchen is contemporary, hip, even edgy in decor, with
food to match.
Several of the Thomas Keller team are at the helm of this casual, upscale
eaterie in Sonoma Square. Executive Chef, Ryan Fancher brings
his experience, knowledge and philosophy from the French Laundry to
his kitchen. His seasonal ingredients are crafted into inspired Cal-Med
recipes with flavors that are clean, full bodied and visually appealing.
The sommelier provides expert advice on wine and food pairings and
offers exciting surprises to pair with the six course tasting menu where
Chef Ryan's talent soars.
For a combination of cool, informal vibes and culinary excitement,
the El Dorado Kitchen is a "find."

This is the upbeat and lively dinning room at El Dorado Kitchen.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Maine Diver Scallops - celery root puree, glazed chestnuts, celery
salad
Charcuterie - house made terrine & rillettes, marmalade, whole grain
mustard, cornichon
Favorite Entrees:
Butternut Squash Agnolotti - toasted pecans and sage cream
Chorizo and Clam "Cassoulet" - escarole, white beans, minestra
broth
Favorite Dessert
fried banana split - crispy banana spring roll, caramel sauce, vanilla
ice cream, candied nuts, chocolate sauce

Executive Chef, Ryan Fancher, whose background includes The French
Laundry Restaurant, serves inspired dishes at El Dorado Kitchen.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
El Dorado Kitchen
El Dorado Hotel
405 First St. W
Sonoma, Ca.
707 996 3030
http://www.eldoradosonoma.com
ZIN

Photo by Michael Reiss
Zin is a Healdsburg hot spot that is a favorite of locals, wine
makers and tourists "in the know," who frequent the restaurant
and wine bar.
At Zin it's all about the food. Proprietor/Chef Jeff Mall
personally raises his produce, so he can attest to its locality
and freshness. His menu reflects seasonal ingredients and full flavored
recipes.
This is American home-cooked fare with California flair served in a
casual, comfortable ambiance.
Its popularity is further enhanced by an eclectic wine list that features
undiscovered Zins and other affordable small production varietals.
For first class comfort food and sell out blue plate specials, go
to Zin.

At Zin Restaurant in Healdsburg you can find a wide selection
of the famous California wine, including Zinfandel, whose namesake is
the restaurant's name.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Mexican Beer Battered Green Beans with Mango Salsa
Grilled Flatbread with Smithfield Ham, Caramelized Onions, Apple Butter
and Spring Hill White Cheddar.
Favorite Entrees:
Herb Roasted Fulton Valley Farms Chicken Breast with a Dried Fruit &
Red Pepper relish mashed Sweet Potatoes and Sautéed Green Beans
with Oyster Mushrooms
Grilled "Certified Angus" Hanger steak with New Mexico red
Chile Sauce, Wild Mushroom & Goat Cheese Chile Relleno, Rancho Beans
and Grilled Green Onions
Favorite Dessert
Apple Jack Apple Pie

The "Mexican Beer Battered Green Beans with Mango Salsa" is
a favorite dishes offered at Zin.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
ZIN
344 Center Street
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 473 0946
http://www.zinrestaurant.com/
The Girl and The Fig

Photo by Michael Reiss
This Sonoma Square French country bistro, The Girl and the Fig,
is the original conception of passionate Franchophile Owner, Sondra
Bernstein.
Sondra Bernstein has created a warm, inviting space, where tourists
and locals mix and mingle over apéritifs, wine and artisanal
cheese, pate, salads, sandwiches and main courses---all seasonally designed
with local ingredients in mind and prepared with rustic, Provençal
flair.
Her wine list is strictly composed of Rhone varietals offered in flights,
glasses and bottles.
Needless to say, many items on the menu incorporate fig as one of the
ingredients. Even if you don't like this fruit, you will be seduced
by the friendly vibes and you will be enchanted by The Girl and the
Fig!

The Girl and the Fig restaurant has a warm inviting atmosphere.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
steamed mussels - garlic, leeks, herbs, Herbsaint, grilled bread.
Charcuterie platter - chefs choice of pate, rillettes or terrine
Favorite Entrees:
pasta - delicata squash, currants, Roquefort cheese, arugula, candied
walnuts, brown butter.
flat iron steak - crispy leek potato cake, broccoli rabe, mushroom demi
glaze
Favorite Dessert
fig crisp - fig and port ice cream

This is one of the inspired, creative dishes served at The Girl and
the Fig.
Photo by Michael
Reiss
The Girl & The Fig
110 West Spain Street
Sonoma, CA. 95476.
On the northwest corner of the Historic Sonoma Plaza
telephone: 707.938.3634
http://www.thegirlandthefig.com/html-sonoma/index.html
This ambitious owner has recently opened an upscale deli/gourmet
shop, The Fig Pantry and also Les Petites Maisons, five
cozy cottages for rent, all located just one mile from historic Sonoma
Plaza. They reflect the attention to detail, quality and panache that
is found in the bistro. Sondra and her chef also conduct cooking vacations.
Check out the website for details.

Photo by Michael Reiss

Photo by Michael Reiss

Photo by Michael Reiss
Les Petites Maisons
1190 East Napa Street
Sonoma, CA 95476
707-933-0340
http://www.thegirlandthefig.com/lespetitesmaisons/index.html
Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen
Photo by Michael Reiss
The design motif found at the Hotel Healdsburg
of understated elegance is underscored at Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek
Kitchen, the restaurant attached to the hotel. Charlie's fame and
well-deserved accolades from Aureole in New York City and Las Vegas
set the stage for high dining expectations, and his latest venture does
not disappoint. The focus here is on a menu and wine list based on locally
grown ingredients. Executive Chef Mark Purdy plies these ingredients
into sophisticated but elegantly simple presentations which allow the
products themselves to shine through. The wine cellar provides a selection
of over 2,000 varieties, all Sonoma County, with a wide selection of
wines by the glass for food and wine pairings.
Dry Creek Kitchen's sleek, modern interior invites
guests to a memorable gourmet experience.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Yellow Tail Jack Sashimi with Dungeness Crab Timbale
- tempura asparagus and cucumber consommé ($12)
Seared Sonoma Foie Gras - five spice French toast and rhubarb soup ($19)
Tomales Bay Miyagi Oysters with Pinot Blanc Mignonette and Black Pepper
Crisps ($14)
Salad of Seasonal Field Greens and Herbs -champagne-shallot vinaigrette
and pickled vegetables ($8)

Dry Creek Kitchen uses only Sonoma's finest ingredients to highlight
natural flavors.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Entrees:
Slow Roasted Pork Tenderloin - carrot ginger puree, watercress, sugar
snap peas, cumin scented pork jus ($23)
Pan Roasted North Cost Halibut-toasted couscous, alba clamshells, chilled
watercress vichyssoise ($24)
Wild Mushroom Crepe-roasted asparagus puree and pea shoot salad ($16)
Favorite Desserts:
Selection of house-made ice creams and sorbets
Cheese course- a selection of Sonoma County artisan varieties
The Tasting Menus offered at lunch (4 courses at $35) and at dinner
( 6 courses at $60) are excellent values and a great way to experience
the many culinary delights of the Dry Creek Kitchen.
Charlie Palmer's Dry Creek Kitchen
at the Hotel Healdsburg
25 Matheson Street
Healdsburg, California 95448
(707) 431-2800
(707) 431-0414
Hot Picks:
Sonoma Valley, California Wine Country
What To Do
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Sonoma Valley
FOOD and WINE PAIRINGS
IN WINERY TASTING ROOMS
Many wineries in Sonoma Valley believe that to
truly experience, appreciate and evaluate their wines they should be
accompanied by their natural partner, food. They have introduced flights
of wine paired with bites of food. These combinations are typically
created by their in house chefs who are familiar with the wineries and
are able to use the seasonal ingredients available locally to enhance
the flavors and textures of both the components.
It is always best to consult your hotel concierge or
bed and breakfast host to determine which wineries in the area are offering
these programs as schedules change depending on the season. The wineries
listed below offer food and wine pairings year round and are well worth
trying for a total sensual experience.
J Vineyards & Winery

Photo by Michael Reiss
J Vineyards and Winery offers three different pairing
options in their Bubble Room, an elegant dining area designed specifically
for these tastings.

Photo by Michael Reiss
The options pair either white wines or Pinot Noirs or
sparkling wines with delectable bites created by their Executive
Chef, Mark Caldwell. This is an exceptional food and wine pairing
which should not be missed.
.
Photo by Michael Reiss
J Vineyards & Winery
11447 Old Redwood Highway
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 431 3646
http://www.jwine.com/
Kendall-Jackson Winery

Photo by Michael Reiss
Kendall Jackson Winery offers an educational food
and wine pairing conducted by one of their staff or the Executive Chef
himself, Justin Wangler.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Each pairing is accompanied by a set of tasting notes
for both the wine and accompanying food pairings.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Kendall-Jackson Winery
Santa Rosa, Ca.
1-800-769 3649
http://www.kj.com/
Mayo Family Winery

Photo by Michael Reiss
Mayo Family Winery provides a tasting room with
chairs, service and delicious food to enhance your gustatory experience.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Single vineyard wines are matched with seven food pairings
created by ZIN Restaurant's Chef Jeff Mall.
This is a delightful tasting at an affordable price.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Mayo Family Winery
340 Center St.
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 433 9400
http://www.mayofamilywinery.com/
COOKING SCOOLS IN SONOMA VALLEY
Ramekins Cooking School

Photo by Michael Reiss
Consider a cooking class at Ramekins Cooking School, while in
Sonoma. Whether an observation-only or a hands-on class, this well-organized,
professionally-run program is informative and entertaining.
The facility is superbly designed for optimal
viewing, and the tastings accompanying each class are paired with appropriate
wines. Ramekins can accommodate groups, as well as individuals,
and they offer an ambitious program with local and guest chefs. Consult
the course catalogue for offerings.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Ramekins Cooking School
450 West Spain St.
Sonoma, California 95476
(707) 933-0450
www.ramekins.com
RELISH CULINARY SCHOOL

Photo by Michael Reiss
Relish Culinary School is the brainchild of accomplished
home chefs who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm
for their edible art.
"Have van will cook" has been their motto as
they are able to provide movable classes and feasts in unique venues
accommodating the needs of diverse clients from the business and leisure
sector
. As of Spring 2007, they will have a new, stylish location
next to the Healdsburg Hotel to expand their range of culinary offerings.

Photo by Michael Reiss
Relish Culinary School
PO Box 933
Healdsburg, Ca.
877 759 1004
www.relishculinary.com
ART GALLERIES/ CAFES WITH A CULINARY
TWIST
SONONA VALLEY
PALETTE ART CAFE
A Visual and Culinary Gallery

What could be more appropriate in the wine country than
an art gallery/cafe offering a variety of items both visual and gustatory
that tantalize the senses. The Palette Art Cafe is a casual,
modern, opened space with both indoor and outdoor venues. It is designed
to compliment and enhance the visual enjoyment of art. Known for its
fondue selections, Palette makes art a delicious exploration.
Palette Art Cafe
235 Healdsburg Avenue Suites 105/106
Healdsburg, Ca.
707 433 2788
www.palette-art.com