A virtual Who's' Who of the Las Vegas Food and Beverage world descended upon the Palazzo's newest venue the LAGUNA Champagne Bar for a VIP event hosted by Moet Hennessy.
Laguna Champagne Bar , located on the Palazzo's casino floor is a relaxing and inviting bar that welcomes all of its guests who enjoy premium beverages in a high-end, luxury environment. This new venue can and will impress even the most distinguished beverage connoisseur.
Actress, Lindsay Price, celebrated the exclusive Grand Opening After a red ribbon cutting ceremony with Sebastian Silvestri, Vice President of Food and Beverage at The Palazzo and The Venetian. She then joined the VIP guests for an evening of champagne cocktails and glasses of Dom Perignon.
Laguna's one of a kind beverage menu features variety of classic champagne cocktails that pleased our palate. Some of the selections include Buck’s Fizz with fresh orange juice and Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial, Flower Eclipse with St.Germain elderflower Liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and Veuve Clicquot Demi Sec, and Bubblicious with Campari, fresh orange juice, and Moet & Chandon “Nectar” Champagne.
“Champagne is one of the finest beverages of all time,” said Sebastien Silvestri, executive director of food and beverage for The Palazzo and The Venetian. “Laguna Champagne Bar offers guests the option of indulging in fine amenities such as high end flights, being educated by master sommeliers while deciphering taste preferences, and sipping signature champagnes all in one amazing experience.”
A signature ritual at Laguna is the Champagne “Boom Boom” shooters. They are served on a wooden plank by a Champagne Sommelier. After discussing beverage choices and selection, the guest taps the shooter on the plank twice, making the champagne foam before shooting it down. Many Shooter choices are available. We could choose from Sparkling Café with Navan, Patron XO Café, Moet & Chandon “Nectar” Champagne; La Poire with Absolut Pears, Pear Coulis, and Moet 7 Chandon Brut Imperial; Orangina with Belvedere Citrus, Grand Marnier, Orange juice, and Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial; and Imperial with Grey Goose L’Orange, TY KU Citrus Liqueur, and Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial.
Along with their menu of champagnes, Laguna Champagne Bar features entertainment including a professional harpist performing delicate arrays of sound every Friday and Saturday. Additionally, Happy Hour specials occur daily from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.-12:00 midnight but the Bar is open 24 hours a day.
After spending an evening at the VIP event we can only say that Laguna Champagne Bar adds even more class to what we believe is one of the classiest resorts on the strip, The Palazzo Resort. It was a real pleasure to enjoy great Champagnes and live music in a venue that you can speak in a normal tone of voice at your own table. Laguna will be a favorite of ours to stop in for a dink whenever we are in the Venetian or the Palazzo .
We have been very fortunate over the years to have had the opportunity to meet Celebrities , Michelin and James Beard Award Winning Chefs , and renown winemakers. But , meeting World Champion Fighter "Smokin" Joe Frazier was an experience that we will cherish.
We had the opportunity to relive the glory days with World Heavyweight fighter Joe Frazier at The Venetian and The Palazzo’s Legends of the Sport. The night began with a highlight reel of the critically-acclaimed film, “Thrilla In Manila,” with a focus on the background of the rivalry, how the rivalry divided America, the post-fight aftermath, and the fight’s place in history.
After the viewing, Frazier conduced a brief Q&A and then lead a discussion on topics such as the sport of boxing, great rivalries, putting your life on the line and the sport of boxing today.
After the Q & A he was presented with a Legend of the Sport trophy thanking him for his contribution to the sport of boxing.
For those very few people who may not know much about this legendary fighter, Joe has quite a remarkable story.
Joe Frazier was born January 12, 1944 and was an Olympic (1964) and World Heavyweight Champion, active from the mid 1960s to the early 1980s.
Frazier had a bullying fighting style, depending on bobbing, weaving and power punching. He is perhaps most famous for his vicious left hooks. Compared to Ali's style, he was close enough to the ideal bruiser that some in the press and media characterized the bouts as the answer to the classic question: "What happens when a boxer meets with a brawler."
According to Joe in the HBO special documenting "The Thrilla in Manilla" fight, he was partially blind in his left eye due to a training accident in 1965. This would indicate that throughout his entire professional career, he fought with only partial sight on his left side.
Today ,Frazier is still training young fighters, although he needed multiple operations for back injuries sustained in a car accident. It has been reported that he and Ali recently attempted a reconciliation, but as of October 2006 Frazier still claimed to have won all three bouts between the two. He declared to a Times reporter, when questioned about his bitterness toward Ali, "I am what I am."
One of the most interesting facts about Joe Frazier was that some of the most memorable moments in the 1976 boxing-themed feature film, Rocky - such as Rocky's carcass-punching scenes and Rocky running up the steps of the museum of art , as part of his training regimen - are taken from Joe's real-life exploits, for which he received no credit. "But he never paid me for none of my past. I only got paid for a walk-on part. Rocky is a sad story for me." Joe said.
Join Scott from Vino Las Vegas as he speaks with "Smokin" Joe Frazier before his event at Legasse's Stadium
Meeting Joe Frazier and having the chance to speak to him was inspiring. The drive and determination that he had as the young man who started as an Olympic Champion and went on to become Heavy Weight Champion of the World is still there today at 66 years of age. We can all take a lesson from people like "Smokin " Joe Frazier.
VINO LAS VEGAS has not spoken about an individual wine in several issues. As many of our passionate readers are well aware , we are always on the look out for those "hidden gems". Many times they have productions of less than 100 cases.
We have found another one of those hidden gems , this time in Napa Valley. The Hugo FamilyCellars 2008 Veris was a nice find. This lovely , 100 % Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley was a real treat. The 2008 Veris is their inaugural release of a Sauvignon Blanc . Veris in Latin is defined as “the production of spring”. With only 200 cases produced , this wine is one of those small production world class wines that we are always in search of.
On the nose , This Sauvignon Blanc wine exhibited surprisingly complex aromatics of citrus and tropical fruit that can bring back distant memories of a warm summer day over looking a tropical ocean.
The Palate explodes with flavors of orange peel, papaya, guava , and freshly cut grass . Grapefruit notes also some through with a wonderful mouth feel that featured underlining acidity for a nice clean finish.
Glenn Hugo's relationship with Girard winery began over three years ago . Located in St Helena , Napa Valley with the soil composed of Riverbed remnants 80% Clay and 20% pebbles was the terroir that brought this great Sauvignon Blanc to life.
Pam and Glenn met in 2001 while working for a large restaurant company in Houston, Texas. In 2003, they took the chance , got married in April and in October packed up and moved to Napa, and began to live their dream.
Through the next few years Glenn got an education from from some of the great winemakers of Napa Valley. In 2007 they purchased two tons of Napa Valley Syrah, 1/2 ton of Russian River Syrah and 1/2 ton of Russian River Grenache.
After surviving their first harvest , Glenn and Pam vowed to produce quality, well-balanced wines to be enjoyed with food as well as on their own. Their passion for having fun with wine amongst family and friends is their passion and can be tasted in their wines.
The Hugo Cellars Wine labels a very unique to say the least. Painter, illustrator and designer Natasha Wescoat did a wonderful job creating original art for the labels. Her work has been on ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition, a Lifetime Channel original movie and the blockbuster film, Marley & Me. As part of Abrakadoodle's artist of distinction program, Wescoat's work is being taught in schools nationwide. Natasha is active in a variety of groups, donating work to worthy causes like Social Media For Social Change, Twestival and the Black Card Circle Foundation. In 2007, Natasha was named "Emerging Artist and Trendsetter" by Art Business News, the largest trade publication in the U.S. In February 2009, the artist exhibited her work at the Ritz-Carlton. For more information on Natasha Wescoat and her work , please visit http://www.natashawescoat.com/#.
Hugo Family Cellars is one of those "boutique" wines that show the passion and hard work from the nose to every sip of their very special wines. For more information on Hugo Family Cellars please visit them at http://www.hugofamilycellars.com/index.html
Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit Celebrates the World of Culinary Arts May 6-9, 2010
More than 30 Events Headlined by 50 Celebrated Chefs Including Paul Bartolotta,
Alain Ducasse, Bobby Flay, Michael Mina, Wolfgang Puck and Joël Robuchon
Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit is one of the fastest-growing epicurean events in the United States, will be held May 6-9 in Las Vegas, coinciding with this year’s Mother’s Day weekend. The four-day fête features new events, new chefs and a diverse and richly enhanced program with the ultimate who’s who in the food world, celebrating the status of Las Vegas as an international gastronomic destination.
In 2009, Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit experienced record attendance across the board—featuring an increase in participating chefs, new business partners and sponsors, and a 17 percent spike in ticket sales year over year. Building on that momentum, this year will feature more than 30 events blending the worlds of food, gaming and entertainment in the distinct way that makes Las Vegas so memorable.
The playground for Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit is destination wide and features this year’s anchor partner resorts, each of which offers an enviable roster of on-site restaurants and in-house chefs: Bellagio, Caesars Palace, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and Wynn | Encore. Joining the lineup for the first time this year as an associate partner is The Venetian | The Palazzo. The event’s charitable partner is the Three Square Food Bank, which is dedicated to providing wholesome food to hungry people, while passionately pursuing a hunger-free community.
“Due to its extraordinary cuisine and its international draw, Las Vegas is a global destination that offers wonderful fun in a unique setting,” said Bon Appétit Vice President and Publisher Paul Jowdy. “Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit is a perfect opportunity to see the breadth of Las Vegas with its celebrity chefs and exquisite resorts paving the way.”
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit is designed to celebrate Las Vegas’ ranking as the world’s most exciting culinary destination. “Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit celebrates our culinary scene in a way unique to Las Vegas,” said Cathy Tull, senior vice president of marketing, LVCVA. “It appeals to visitors drawn to top-tier epicurean experiences as well as the world-class resort atmosphere Las Vegas offers.”
“2009 was an extremely successful year for the program in a difficult economic climate,” said Rob O’Keefe, executive director of Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit. “Each year the program continues to build off its own momentum. As we enter into our fourth annual event, the growth continues as our partners and consumers spread the word that the combination of Las Vegas and its top culinary talent presents an epicurean festival not to be missed.”
Highlights of this year’s Vegas Uncork’d Presented by Bon Appétit schedule, which includes many new events, follow:
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Culinary Conversation with Chef Wolfgang Puck – New to the program this year, Bon Appétit Editor-in-Chief Barbara Fairchild holds a tête-à-tête at Bellagio’s Fontana Lounge with the icon that created the world of the celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck. Together, they trace the growth of Las Vegas as an international gastronomic destination.
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Masters’ Series Dinners –This event will be hosted at Caesars Palace with Bobby Flay at Mesa Grill, Bradley Ogden at Bradley Ogden, Restaurant Guy Savoy with Guy Savoy and Rao’s with Carla Pellegrino.
·Masters’ Series Luncheons – Brand new to the line up this year are luncheons at The Venetian | The Palazzo with Wolfgang Puck at CUT, David Burke with David Burke, Restaurant Charlie with Charlie Trotter and Piero Selvaggio’s Valentino with Luciano Pellegrini and Piero Selvaggio.
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Ultimate All-Star Interactive Luncheon – Step into the kitchen and play sous-chef to an all-star lineup of Wynn Las Vegas and Encore Las Vegas chefs at this incredible interactive luncheon at Wynn | Encore with Paul Bartolotta, Frédéric Robert, Alex Stratta and David Walzog.
·Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace – A delectable evening featuring 50 restaurants and 50 vintners at the wildly expanded, five-acre Garden of the Gods pool complex at Caesars Palace.
·Better by the Bay with Alain Ducasse and Charlie Palmer – Dine under the stars with a beachside barbecue at Mandalay Bay’s 11-acre tropical water environment and 1.6 million gallon wave pool. Enjoy an East Coast-inspired menu from Charlie Palmer and tastes from coastal France created by Alain Ducasse. Beach attire required. New to the program this year.
·Chef’s Table with Alain Ducasse – New to the event lineup this year is a seat at the table with Chef Alain Ducasse, considered to be one of the most renowned French chefs of his generation, at miX, high atop THEhotel at Mandalay Bay. For the first time ever, a small group of Vegas Uncork’d guests will join him as he conducts his seasonal menu changes.
·Fashion Feast: A Delicious Evening of Style and Taste at Bellagio – Haute cuisine meets savory couture––intricate details, impeccable lines and quality down to the last accessory on and off the plate. This event will deliver front row access to the most celebrated Bellagio chefs and the hottest Via Bellagio designers, while you indulge in a delectable five-course dinner accompanied by wine pairings selected by Bellagio's Wine Director and Master Sommelier Jason Smith. New to the program this year.
·Celebrity Chef Blackjack – Try your luck poolside at Encore with icons of the culinary world such as Bobby Flay, Charlie Palmer, Joël Robuchon, Alex Stratta, Kim Canteenwalla and Carlos Guia. Afterward, the excitement continues at the spectacular XS nightclub.
·Wine Immersion Experience at Bellagio – Want to know what the numbers really mean? Gain a better understanding of wine scores and ratings at a behind-the-scenes panel discussion hosted by Bellagio’s Wine Director and Master Sommelier Jason Smith at Jasmine.
·Payard Pâtisserie and Bistro Tea & Dessert Demonstration at Caesars Palace – Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a unique and scrumptious glimpse into the technique of this celebrated chef and his classic Parisian pastry shop. New to the program this year.
·Culinary Theatre: Two Master Chefs Collide – Rick Moonen of rm Seafood Cafe and Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys and Burger Bar have mastered the art of entertainment––both in the kitchen and on the stage. As they prepare their favorite signature dishes and "dish" about each other, you’ll enjoy their delicious creations with a side of comedy and a cocktail or two.New to the program this year.
·Mother’s Day Brunch at L’Atelier at MGM Grand – Join Barbara Fairchild and Chef Joël Robuchon for an unforgettable celebration of mom on her special day. New to the program this year.
Many of these events are already on sale. To purchase tickets and to see more information about this year’s event lineup, please visit www.VegasUncorked.com. There, you may also opt in to receive information about additional events as they are added to the schedule.
This is one of the premier events that we cover and has become one of the most important culinaary and wine events in the United States. Vegas Uncork'd is an event that anyone who enjoys food , wine and entertainment should attend. See you there and ,
VINO LAS VEGAS found ourselves beginning 2010 at the Venetian /Palazzo and its many parties. Whether toasting with Christina Aguilera or Nicole Richie during the midnight countdown, staying energized at the Red Bull No Limits New Year's Eve Party at Lagasse's Stadium or attending the Grand Opening of Smokin’ Hot Aces. Venues at The Palazzo featured special New Year’s Eve festivities that included LAVO, Lagasse’s Stadium, FIRST Food & Bar and Salute Lounge. Just a short stroll away at The Venetian, parties were held at TAO, Smokin’ Hot Aces, V Bar and La Scena.
The Red Carpet and its lights shined bright as we rang in the New Year with Nicole Richie as she hosted LAVO’s New Year’s Eve celebration with a special DJ set by Joel Madden and sounds by DJ Eric D Lux.
VINO LAS VEGAS visited many of the fine dinning venues at both resorts leading up to the midnight festivities. Stops at CUT , SUSHI SAMBA , CANNONITA and CARNEVINO got us started off on the right foot.
Over at the Venetian , Christina Aguilera hosted New Year’s Eve 2010 at TAO Asian Bistro & Nightclub, presented by Stephen Webster. World-renowned DJ Five was on hand to ring in the New Year with a memorable, high-energy set that kept the guests dancing into the early morning hours of 2010.
Singer, songwriter, performer, producer, Christina Aguilera was a real pleasure to meet. She is one of the most accomplished performers of the last decade, she has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, achieved four #1 singles on the Billboard hot 100 chart, and has won four Grammy Awards and a Latin Grammy Award, as well as two top five albums in the United States. She has collaborated with other great artists including Herbie Hancock, Andrea Bocelli, Sean “Diddy” Combs and most recently, the legendary Tony Bennett.
She is well recognized with the 2007 Grammy Award Best Female Pop Vocal Performance: 'Ain't No Other Man'2006 MTV Europe Music Awards Best Female Artist2004 MTV Asia Award Favorite Female Artist2003 MTV Europe Music Awards Best Female 2003 Grammy Award Best Female Pop Vocal Performance: 'Beautiful'2001 Grammy Award Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals: 'Lady Marmalade'2001 Latin Grammy Award Best Female Pop Vocal Album: 'Mi Reflejo'. It really does got get much better than this to start off the new year.
Nicole Richie was over at the Palazzo in LAVO ringing in the New Year as well. In 2003, Richie and best friend Paris Hilton starred in Season 1 of the reality seriesThe Simple Life, in which they lived for a month with a family in the rural community of Altus, Arkansas. The series debuted on Fox on December 2, 2003, to high ratings. The premiere episode drew 13 million viewers, increasing Fox's Adults 18-49 rating to 79%.
In 2005, Richie wrote a semi-autobiographical novel, The Truth About Diamonds, which was released by Bharell Jackson Publishing. The novel is loosely based on her life, but is mostly fictional. It chronicles the life of Chloe Parker, the adopted daughter of a singer who makes her way through all of the hottest nightclubs and parties in Hollywood and battles a drug addiction. In early January 2006, The Truth About Diamonds peaked at number #32 in Hardcover Fiction on The New York Times Best-Seller List.
With fireworks lighting up the strip , a stop at MORELS French Steak house provided us with a "strip side " view of the opening seconds of 2010 . The Venetian / Palazzo resorts teamed up with an A list of celebrities , partys and the always fabulous dining opportunities top start 2010 off in the right way .
Vino Las Vegas has traveled extensively and brought our readers along with us. In almost every occasion , we have concentrated on the Wine and Food aspects of the city we were in.
Recently we had the pleasure and honor of being invited to spend four days in Monterey County and discover not only the wine and food of the area but its history , attractions , and agriculture. They call this living the "Monterey Food and Wine Lifestyle". We could not agree more. The journey begins !
Monterey County highlights everything that's best about California. From the seaside restaurants to the Salinas Valley's hillside vineyards, to Pebble Beach's perfectly groomed golf courses. It has a life style that is just waiting to be explored.
Throughout the county, the story of Monterey's rich heritage comes alive in its gardens, missions, and lighthouses. It is the most historic city in California, and the the area continues to enthrall writers, artists and of course guests.
In 1945 author John Steinbeck immortalized the one mile stretch that was Ocean View Avenue in Monterey with his book ‘Cannery Row.’ The notoriety of Steinbeck’s book focused so much attention on the street that in 1953 the city of Monterey formally changed the street name to Cannery Row. Cannery Row is now one of America's top visitor destinations, attracting approximately four million people each year.
Today, visitors to Cannery Row can learn about the past, enjoy the present, and marvel at how this street has been transformed into one of the world's most beautiful waterfront destinations.
While on the road we enjoy boutique hotels. On this visit we chose the Monterey Bay Inn as our " base of operations ". The Monterey Bay Inn is a luxury hotel located on Cannery Row and within walking distance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and they many restaurants on cannery row.
This lovely hotel offered us a relaxing sanctuary overlooking the Monterey Bay. With 49 spacious guestrooms, luxury amenities, plush bedding, and a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast delivered to our room , we could not help but open the patio door and step outside to savor the ocean aromas.
We have very busy days planned so enjoying a hearty breakfast including bagels, fresh baked breads, muffins, seasonal fruit, cereal, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, juices, tea and local coffee from the Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company was a great way to start each day.
Of course a welcome gift of Ventana wines and chocolate was not a bad way to get our 4 day exploration of Monterey County started either.
Our room was decorated in soft marine-inspired hues of blue, green and brown and included deluxe feather bedding. We even found binoculars for viewing sea otters, birds, and other marine life in the room as well . The marble and granite bathrooms and stunning ocean views make this hotel a new favorite.
Vintners Reserve Opening Reception
We began our exploration of Monterey County's world class wines , culinary delights and scenic beauty at a private sunset Vintners Reserve Reception hosted by Scott Scheid of Schneid Vineyards in their tasting room on Cannery Row. Rhonda Motil , Executive Director MCVGA was a co-host and revealed to us the itinerary of our 4 day journey though the county.
The food and wine pairings created by Executive Chef Jerry Regester , The InterContinental Hotel showed off many of the great wines and food of the bountiful Monterey area and were right on.
The Scheid Vineyards Wine Lounge is located just a block from the Monterey Aquarium on cannery row. The 2,000-square-foot lounge features coffered ceilings, recycled hickory floors, and a rustic Carmel Valley stone fireplace, a perfect environment for tasting these great wines wines.
Over the past 36 Years, Scheid Vineyards has grown into one of California's largest independent producers of premium wine grapes, and a maker of distinctive wines that bear the Scheid name.
Located in Monterey County, they grow seventeen wine grape varieties on twelve diverse vineyard properties covering a span of 70 miles north to south.
Thediverse vineyards enable them to grow many different varieties and clones in a variety of styles. From cool climate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling in the north, to Syrah, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc in the central Monterey County locations, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot in the warmer south.
They have ten separate estate vineyards covering more than 70 miles, offering an array of soils, microclimates, and sub-appellations. Each of their wines are handcrafted, using the best of new technology combined with traditional methods to showcase the varietal character of the grapes, the individuality of each vineyard, and the world class quality of the Monterey Viticultural Appellation. Less than two percent of Scheid's grapes are selected for its label.
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This reception was about showing off a few of the many wineries in the Monterey County AVAs. Morgan wines are very well known.
Their Double L Vineyard is in the northern section of the Santa Lucia Highlands sub-appellation of Monterey. This organically farmed site has 45 acres currently producing fine Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.We enjoyed the opportunity to sample all of them and were impressed with their complexity and well represented the variety and terrior appropriately.
Estancia wines are known nation wide . Roughly translated from the Spanish word for “estate,” Estancia’s name emphasizes their founder, Augustin Huneeus' conviction that the world’s best wines capture the essence of their place of origin. In
1999 they branched out further from their home in Monterey County and acquired almost 700 acres in Paso Robles as the vineyard base for Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and Red Meritage.
The Bernardus estate vineyards of Marinus and Featherbow Ranch are located in the Cachagua region of the Carmel Valley. Carmel Valley is a relatively new but up and coming AVA .
Of the 220 acres, 50 acres have been planted to vineyards of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Sauvignon Blanc. B. Their Marinus Estate Bordeaux-style red wine is the centerpiece of Owner Ben Pon's dream. It is complemented by Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc from cool coastal climate vineyards. In addition they also offer limited bottlings of small production and vineyard designate wines, which are available exclusively through their tasting room and wine club.
In addition to the "big names " we had the pleasure of sampling wines from Ludwig Winery. They specializes in northern European varietals. and currently offer two vineyard designated Rieslings and a Gewurztraminer. Once again, growing these cold climate European varietals as well as the many other varietals in Monterey County show all is vast diversity.
If this reception is just a small sampling of what the next 3 days will be like , we waited with anticipation.
The morning rays of the sun rose over Monterey Bay and began to shine through the wooden shutters of our spacious room . Sounds of seagulls and waves gently splashing on the rocks below reminded us that we were no longer in the desert .
A quick breakfast on the patio and we were off to explore the many interesting aspects that Monterey County has to offer. Monterey County is famous for many things, however no true exploration of Monterey and the Salinas Valley could not be complete without exploring the works of Author John Steinbeck.
Pulitzer and Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck was born and raised in Salinas not far from Monterey. His novels East of Eden, Tortilla Flat,Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday are among the stories that use Monterey county as the backdrop for his novels.
Monterey County Agricultural expert Evan Oaks, Owner of Ag Venture Tours took us on a journey through Steinbeck country like a true native. As we headed down Highway 68 towards Salinas he explained that Steinbecks Novels reflect his deep-seated roots in Monterey County.
Steinbeck first received attention with a novel set just after World War I in Monterey, titled Tortilla Flat. This book focused on Monterey residents of Mexican descent. His work at ranches and farms in Salinas informed his "California novels" set in the Depression-era farmland of the Central Valley, including Of Mice and Men and The Grapes of Wrath.
We arrived at Castle Rock which was the inspiration of John Steinbeck's Camelot castle in his book The Acts of King Arthur and His Noble Knights, along with other stories, such as Pastures of Heaven, in which Steinbeck says that it has “so serene a beauty.” In this short story, “The Murder,” he starts the book with “This happened a number of years ago in Monterey County...At the head of the canyon there stands a tremendous stone castle, buttressed and towered like those strongholds the Crusaders put up in the path of their conquests. Only a close visit to the castle shows it to be a strange accident of time and water and erosion working on soft, stratified sandstone.”
The bluffs and castle-like turrets of stone that fascinated Steinbeck were featured in his Pastures of Heaven ( 1932 ). As Evan read to us from Pastures of Heaven we could not help but almost feel that John Steinback himself was looking down on us from the ramparts of his beloved Castle Rock.
Salinas Valley
As we proceeded down highway 68 to the Salinas Valley , Evan informed us that the Salinas Valley is the center for Monterey County’s 3.8 billion-dollar agriculture industry.
Due to its temperate, Mediterranean-like climate and fertile soils, the county has become the number one vegetable-producing region in the nation.
He continued to point out that this area supplies 80 percent of the nation’s lettuces and nearly the same percentage of artichokes. Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, strawberries, peppers, squash, carrots, asparagus, celery, tomatoes, mushrooms, brussel sprouts, garlic, onions and flowers are also grown in abundance.
In addition, Monterey County has become one of the largest premium grape growing regions in California, with over 40,000 acres of wine grapes planted Local growers and shippers in the Valley lead the industry in all phases of crop growth including seed technology, planting and irrigation, harvesting and marketing. Pre-packaged salads and precut fresh vegetables were created in the Salinas Valley, and this innovation has changed the way we buy vegetables.
The technologies that we developed in the Salinas Valley are being recognized and imitated by farmers around the world. Today , Monterey County continues to be a leader in agricultural exports with over 570 million pounds of produce exported annually. Top importers of Salinas Valley produce include Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mexico and the European Union
The highly sought after Organic produce is and has been incorporated into the holdings of most large companies and many are continually working on experimental projects . There are currently over 14,000 acres of organic vegetables growing in Monterey County. More than 40 crops exceeded $1 million in production value in 2008.
D Arrigo Farms home of the Andy Boy name 80 Years in the making
It is hard to imagine that when Andrea and Stefano D’Arrigo brought broccoli seeds from their native Italy in 1923, this delicious and nutritious mainstay was virtually unknown in America.
Along with broccoli, the D’Arrigo family brought a family passion for growing fresh vegetables that has continued through the decades. Margaret D Arrigo , Executive Vice President was waiting as we pulled up to her family's sprawling headquarters facility . She explained that she was going to take us on a drive to their cactus pear farm to show us a new project they are working on and then for lunch.
Our 30 min ride to the farm took us along side of the Santa Lucia Highlands and the ancient alluvial fans that produce some of the countries finest wines. We turned down a dirt road and into a cactus farm. It seemed quite out of place right between of some very famous vineyards. Margaret explained Edible cactus is also known as nopales (no-PAH-les), nopalitos or cactus pads. This vegetable is popular in Mexico and other Central American countries, parts of Europe, the Middle East, India, North Africa and Australia.
Its popularity is increasing in the United States where it can be found at Mexican grocery stores, specialty produce markets and farmer’s markets. In addition to the food aspect she has plans to use the cactus pear puree in various cocktails including Richard Oh's OH Zone vodka. 80 years ago D Arrigo was a pioneer in the Salinas Valley. Margaret and her brother seem to be keeping up the cutting edge tradition with their latest project.
Today, D'Arrigo Bros. Co., of California (Andy Boy) specializes in Romaine, Romaine Hearts, Iceberg Lettuce, Green Leaf, Red Leaf, Butter Lettuce, Broccoli Rabe, Broccoli, Shrink-Wrap Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cactus Pears, Nopalitos and Fennel. They service customers in the retail food, foodservice, and the food wholesale sectors and farms some 24,000 acres . On the way back to the headquarters building and what promised to be a great afternoon with lunch and a PinotNoir focus tasting , Margaret explained that she conducts cooking classes for local children to educate them on eating and cooking better and she added the program as has had fantastic results.
D Arrigo Lunch was nothing but spectacular
After spending most of the morning in the farms and fields of the Salinas Valley we were now ready to enjoy some the great food and of course wine that they are so famous for. Margaret D' Arrigo pulled out all the stops and put on a lunch that has to be one of the best we have had the pleasure to enjoy.
When you combine the talent of a great local Chef and a 5th Generation winemaker those are all the ingredients you need for a wonderful time.
Karl Wente , Fifth Generation Winemaker , Wente Family estates joined us for lunch. Karl explained that his family's vineyard is the country's oldest , continuously operated vineyard and was founded in 1883. With over 3000 acres of Sustainably farmed grapes , they have created a very well known and vast portfolio of wines.
He went on to add that Wente Vineyards has a restaurant , golf course , does catering events and even concerts. On this day , he enjoyed the fresh creations from Chef Todd Fisher with each course being paired with a Wente wine.
Chef Todd Fisher showed off his culinary talent and created a lunch that showed off the products of this fertile valley. His Caesar salad with Andy Boy Romaine Hearts was probably the freshest that we have had, understating we were very close to where it was grown. Of course a lunch in Salinas would not be a lunch with out Guacamole and Fresh Salsa. Chef took it one more step and made a Guacamole Rabe and ended our lunch with Prickly Pear Sorbet and Lemonade.
Broccoli Rabe & CarneAsada Tacos paired with Wente Vineyards 2006 Small Lot Syrah was a pairing that was spot on.
Just when one may think the afternoon could not get much better , It did. Vino Las Vegas sat down with some of the founding winemakers in Monterey County and explored 5 of the 8 AVAs at a PinotNoirTerroir Focus Tasting
Some of the best Pinot Noirs' in our opinion come out of Monterey County. With its cool climate and maritime influence , Pinot Noirs do well in most of the AVAs in the county. This area provides the proper temperature , warm days, a shorter frost season and less chance of unseasonable and damaging rains. The primary attribute of this singular climate is the cooling air of the Monterey Bay, which creates a longer growing season. As air in the southern part of the county warms at noon each day and rises, cool air from the Bay fills the void left by the rising warm air.
Grapevines in Monterey County tend to produce buds in the Springs, two weeks earlier than vines in other regions. Due to the cool growing season, the Fall harvest typically beings two weeks later than other regions. Thus, local grapes remain on the vine a full month longer, developing the characteristic intensity of flavor.
We had the opportunity to sample Pinot Noirs from Arroyo Seco. This AVA is almost in the middle of the county next to the Santa Lucia Highlands. The first Pinot Noir we sampled was 2007 J Lohr Fog's Reach Pinot Noir . This was a young Pinot but represented itself well. Monterey County legonary founder Steve McIntyre was on hand and presented us with his 2006 McIntyre Vineyards Misson Ranch Pinot Noir. Having more time in the bottle , this Pinot Noir showed what the Arroyo Seco AVA is all about , showing off the AVAs unique qualities. The Santa Lucia Highlands may be the county's biggest name. Located in some of the highest elevations of the county. This AVA is well known for its Pinot Noirs. Several Pinot Noirs were sampled from this appelation. The 2007 Bernardus Vineyards Rosella's Santa Lucia Highlands , 2007 Hahn Estates SLH Pinot Noir , Steve McIntyre was up to the task with his 2007 McIntyre Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir and was followed by Morgan Winery with there 2007 Morgan Winery Twelve Clones Pinot Noir and 2007 Morgan Winery Double L Vineyard Pinot Noir.
The next AVA we explored was the renowned Chalone AVA which is the oldest and located on eastern side of the county at very high elevations. Who else could start the tasting of this AVAs Pinot Noirs was legendary winemaker Michael Michaud. His 2005 Michaud Vineyard Pinot Noir was a great way to get our Pinot Noir trip started. Of course Chalone Vineyard was on had to show off their 2007 Chalone Vineyard Pinot Noir as well. Not be be left out Carmel Valley AVA was well represented by Bernardus Vineyards and their 2007 Bernardus Vineyards Ingrids Carmel Valley Pinot Noir. The Monterey AVA was represented by
Carmel Road Winery and its 2007 Carmel Road Sierra Granite Pinot Noir. And Scheid Vineyards with their 2007 Scheid Vineyards Pinot Noir to finish this very special Pinot Noir journey through the hills and valleys of Monterey County.
A Visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium
If your staying on Cannery Row the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is worth a visit. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery and has an annual attendance of 1.8 million and holds 35,000 plants and animals representing 623 species.
The basic design of the aquarium pumps 2000 gallons/minute of Monterey Bay ocean water, night and day, through the more than 100 exhibit tanks. During the day the water is filtered for viewing clarity. During the night, raw (unfiltered) seawater is pumped through exhibits, bringing in food in the form of plankton. Waste ocean water from the aquarium is returned to the Bay. This design makes the aquarium ecologically essentially part of the ocean in the Bay, and allows the culture of organisms such as Giant Kelp which are not suitable for ordinary saltwater aquariums.
We stolled amongst numerous sea life and were in totall awe of their beauty. This Aquariium is one of best known in the world and just another aspect that Monterey County has to offer to its visitors. Located on Cannery Row it is easlity accesbale and walking distance to many of the hotels.
In addition to appreciating the beauty of the sea life, we were at the aquarium in the evening for a very special event. There were winemaker dinners all over the county and ours was right here in the middle of the aquarium with great wine from Estancia and Chef David Anderson's culinary delights.
Estancia wines are very well known. Their winemakers strive to combine the best of both worlds with a state-of-the art winemaking facility, and a traditional, hands-on approach to to take advantage of the beneficial advances in winemaking technology that has developed over the years. Scott Kelly joined Estancia in 2007 as Director of Winemaking and is responsible for the day-to-day activities of winemaking this includes walking the vineyards, tasting each barrel to determining blending, aging and bottling.
Scott knew wanted to be a winemaker from the time he was 17 years old. He worked his way to assistant brewmaster for Carmel Brewing Co. in Salinas, managing all aspects of brewing.
A year later, he joined Golden State Vintners in Napa Vally as a laboratory supervisor then promoted to cellar master and eventually assistant winemaker. Following Golden State Vintners, Scott then worked as winemaker for La Famiglia and then Robert Mondavi Private Selection before joining Estancia in 2007. He continued on to earn Bachelor of Science degree in fermentation science from University of California at Davis and was also awarded a Certification of Master Brewers Program.
We walked into the Aquarium and realized at night this was a whole different experience than during the day. Guests had the very special opportunity to walk amongst sharks , large kelp forests , and even penguins while sipping on some great wines and tantalizeing treats from Chef David Anderson , Portola Resturant Executive Chef.
It was now time to dine. and dine we did. Each table had a winemaker or host from the winery to enjoy the wine , dishes and answer any questions we may have.
Chef Anderon's Farmed Artic Char Blanquette Crep paried with Estancia Reserve 2007 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands paired great with the dish as its soft silky tanins and spice lead to a lingering finish which was a true complement to the dish.
Braised Beef Short Rib, red wine risotto waspaired withthe2006 Estancia Mertage Paso Robles which melted in our mouth. Flavours and aromas of chocolate , black cherries and even rosemarry combined for a great marriage with this dish.
Last but certainly not least was a Rustic fig-almond tart andof course not surprisingly was paired with Estancia 2008 Riesling , Monterey County.
Chef David Anderson , Scott Kelly , Estancia wines and the Monterey Bay aquarium gave us all a memorable experience in a venue that was created by nature itself. We walked along the famed Cannery Row, marveling at the stars and taking in ocean aromas on the way back to the Monterey Bay Inn and preparing for a visit to Carmel Valley the next day.
Along with their menu of champagnes, Laguna Champagne Bar features entertainment including a professional harpist performing delicate arrays of sound every Friday and Saturday. Additionally, Happy Hour specials occur daily from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.-12:00 midnight but the Bar is open 24 hours a day.
McIntyre was on hand and presented us with his 
