Music and Wine – Everything’s Fine
I’m a fortunate son of two social phenomena of our times in which I have played an active role: the explosion of pop music and the equally exciting explosion of wine. I have been privileged in both of these ultra cool happenings, having been a DJ, music director and MC for many great pop music trends and events; and now in the middle of a wine revolution that is world-wide in scope.
The biggest kick for me is to witness the marriage of the two. A glass of premium wine while at a jazz or pop music concert with friends, well… it doesn’t get any better! The people who have brought these twin pleasures together are the best I have ever related to. The atmosphere created is one of great camaraderie, from the promoters, the talent and all who attend. It’s one happy atmosphere.
Jazz seems to have captured the essence of music and wine, and one of the products of this trend is Mindi Abair, that pretty, vibrant blonde who can do it all: sing, play a mean saxophone and make a piano soar. Mindi was playing piano at the age of five. Three years later she was playing sax. She went through the prestigious Berklee School of Music and finally after playing “side” for many pop music stars including the Back Street Boys, she cut her own disc in 1999. She loves playing in Temecula Wine Country and also believes that wine and music are in tune with each other.
Wilson Creek Winery is one of the wineries in Temecula that is on the cutting edge of concerts. I met Mindi Abair there last year, not as an entertainer but because she was a customer enjoying the discovery acts like Eric Darius that are booked at Wilson Creek. Owners Jerry and Rose Wilson are at almost every one of their concerts, with Rose leading the cheers and getting the crowds excited. Son Bill Wilson MC’s and works with the talent. Always looking to break new musical ground, Wilson Creek is planning a tribute Country “Tex-Mex” concert on Saturday, October 20 with tributes to the Highwaymen (Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash), and the Texas Tornadoes.
Those of you who survived the 70’s know that those two bands gave the boot to traditional country and paved new musical ground. Local and regional talent will interpret this music with proceeds going to Special Needs Children in Temecula. To learn more, Call 951-699-9463 or get on the web at
www.eventinfo@wilsoncreekwinery.com.
For a more intimate music and wine experience, Friars Folly in San Marcos is the place to hang out. Owner Tami Ridley has musical surprises ranging from a Beatles tribute band to blues and jazz. Most any Saturday evening by a big firepit, you can enjoy wine from an eclectic list, and dig live musicians, for no extra admission charge. This wine-pub atmosphere has an “A –rated” atmosphere
Wines to Try, Recent Tastings:
• La Cereza Tempranillo 2005 – Grapes from the Guadalupe Valley of Mexico, this lovely, lacey wine is a centerpiece for this Spanish style winery in Temecula. $30 www.lacereza.com.
• B Cellars Blend 24, Napa, 2004 – 75% Cab, 15% Merlot and 10% Syrah. Sophisticated and delightfully sweet tint. $ 36 wwwbcellars.com.
• Treana White, Paso Robles, 2004 – 61% Viognier and 39% Marsanne. Rhone varietals triumph in this beauty. $17, www.treana.com
• Chateau St. Jean Cabernet, Napa, 2004 – Latest release just out. ’03 was one of my top tastes earlier this year. This one’s better. $19. www.chateaustjean.com.Searching for the Best of Paso Robles
I am off to “Paso” Wine country to explore those great wineries.
When I return I will have a special report on what treasures I have found during this harvest time for some 180 wineries and vineyards in this fast rising, beautiful countryside that features grand Zinfandels and Syrahs.The Local Sip
• Robbie’s in Encinitas, part of the exciting Italian Vigilucci’s group of restaurants, presents a dinner and musical event Wednesday, October 10 at 6:30pm. A four course dinner with carefully paired wines provide the backdrop for the music of Michael Battista, an accomplished Spanish guitar virtuoso. $85 per person. Phone 760-634-2365 for more.
• The 6th annual Crush Party and Grape Stomp is at Cal State San Marcos on Saturday, October 6 from 1pm to 5pm. Full flight wine tastings, entertainment, grape stomp for adults and kids and Bocce Ball highlight. $ 20. Call 619-871-7643 for details.
• Jack’s La Jolla has their Taste of Italy on Tuesday, October 9 from 6 to 7:30pm. Try Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and Barbera. $25. Call 858-456-8111.
• San Diego Wine and Culinary Center, across from the convention center, continues its great chef series with a luscious Silver Oak gourmet dinner on Saturday, October 13 from 6 to 8pm. Reservations required at 619-231-6400. Only $45 per person.
• North of Escondido, check out Belle Marie Winery and their Winemaker’s Dinner on Saturday, October 13 starting with a reception at 6:pm. Each course will feature fresh seafood paired with a Belle Marie wine. $89 per person. Call ahead at 760-796-7557.Frank Mangio is a renowned wine connoisseur certified by Wine Spectator. Reach him at mangiompc@aol.com.
10631 Vinedale Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352 - Phone (818) 767-3413 - Fax: (818) 767-1410
