From Washington to Napa, California ….

Down to the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars where we do the Insider quiz with head winemaker Marcus Notaro, who has been on the job for three years, since coming down from Washington State where he had been head winemaker with Col Solare – all without changing employers. Both wineries are co-owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in Woodinville, Wash., and Marchesi Antinori in Florence, Italy. 

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has got a nice, open, hard wood floor, tasting room that opens onto a patio that overlooks the vineyards. A $45 tasting includes top of the line estate grown Cabernets which sell for more than $125 and several other more in-depth tastings can be made by appointment including The Cellarius Kitchen Experience (approx. 2 hours) for $125.

Come explore Stag’s events.  An opportunity to experience the magic is around the corner.  Dinner in the Vineyard  occurs August 19 where you will experience a wine tasting and 3 course dinner.   For details – https://www.cask23.com/events

 What was last night’s dinner?
Pork ribs with a fresh tomatillo salsa

Favorite drink?
Wine of course, depends on what’s for dinner

Favorite dining spot in Napa?
Napa has incredible restaurants.  Too many great ones to pick a favorite!

Favorite music?
Reggae and Country

Favorite thing about living and working in Napa?
The unbelievably beautiful and diverse topography.  All the incredible restaurants and food options (farmers markets, even the grocery stores are great). I also appreciate the commitment to agriculture.

Any brush with celebrity?
Payton Manning, Spike Lee

What makes a great winery?
Passionate people, world class vineyards and the commitment to quality and expressing the personality of the place