The wine-tasting experience includes seasonal bites and sips from four signature bottles: the 2017 proprietary blend, a melange of cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon aged in French oak barrels; the 2017 cabernet sauvignon with notes of creme de cassis and cinnamon; BRIO 2016 red blend, a Bordeaux-style bottle abundant with hints of black cherry and cardamom; and BRAND Napa Valley 2018 white wine, the latest addition to BRAND’s portfolio.
In the heart of Sonoma County lies Russian River Valley, home to Bricoleur Vineyards and some of the region’s best pinot noir and chardonnay. The 40-acre vineyard is hosting The Essentials Picnic, featuring a handselected array of seasonal treats such as prosciutto and fontina piadinis, quinoa with local mushrooms and beet salad with black truffle chevre. Of course, the spread is accompanied by a chilled glass of 2019 Rosé of Grenache to enjoy in the estate’s scenic outdoor spaces.
Travel back in time at the Faust Haus, a restored Victorian farmhouse and Prohibition-era cellar turned immersive wine-tasting experience. Remodeled by Aidlin Darling Design, the handsome estate’s luxe interiors pair perfectly with a glass of the indulgent cabernet sauvignon with aromas of luscious dark fruit and cedar. Hoping to establish itself as a salon of sorts, Faust Haus will also invite artists, authors and designers for exhibitions and workshops.
If you’d prefer to sample wines from the comfort of your backyard, Passalacqua Winery offers completely virtual wine tastings in a variety of themes. The Light, Bright & Fun set ($150) tastes just like summer with refreshing bottles of sauvignon blanc, rosé and chardonnay paired with a private virtual tasting session. For a more personalized experience, the sample sips kit includes three curated 2-ounce pours suited to your personal palate, gleaned from a virtual consultation.
Photography by: From top: Jimmy Hayes; Kailani Andrade; Adrian Gaut; courtesy of Passalacqua Winery
