Courtesy of http://www.stuartlocklearphotography.com/

I love the farming part of wine making. Give me a haystack, good music outdoors, a glass of wine and fresh BBQ and I’m in heaven.  Which is why I’ve partnered with Carneros Wine Alliance to be this year’s Media Sponsor.

Carneros is such an interesting AVA.  It straddles two counties–Sonoma and Napa.  It mostly has a cool climate (relative to other parts of the counties) but Artesa, for example, is above the fog line and it’s hotter.  Carneros-specific wines will be poured including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the cool part of Carneros and Merlots etc. from the warmer part of the same AVA.  Attending an event like this is a great way to understand an appellation.

I’m looking forward to the sheep herding demos with my favorite farm dogs, border collies.  I wonder if they’ll let Tulip participate?  She’s a natural herder (she herds my cat).

Another reason I like this event is that it is kid friendly.  I love introducing young people to fine food, wholesome consumption of wine, tables full of family and friends, laughter, beautiful settings, and new experiences.  The tickets are special occasion ($75 per person) BUT kids under 12 are free.  How many wine country events exist where you can bring the kids, they’ll have a great time and you can taste wine?  I think I might just round me up some kids!