All Posts

duck and spring peas dinner plate with outdoor dinner table in the background

2022 Sonoma Winery Dinner Events

Although alfresco dining has become a popular (and essential) pivot for most restaurants and bars across the country during the last two years, Sonoma wineries have been… Continue Reading

person holding plate of two grilled fish fillets

Chardonnay Friendly Marinade and Rub Recipes

It’s my favorite time of year for firing up the grill at Jordan (and at home). The longer days and warmer temperatures in Sonoma County often call… Continue Reading

hand touching bowl of spiced rub

Food Pairing with Cabernet Sauvignon: Red Wine-Friendly Marinades and Dry Rubs

When seeking to take your steak to the next level, there are plenty of tricks that will get you there. But it’s a different talent to flawlessly… Continue Reading

man standing in a field with a fire in front of him

Five Types of Grills and Smokers: Chef’s Choices

The invention of the backyard grill paved the way for a fascinating evolution of live-fire cooking tools since the midcentury. We use many types of grills and… Continue Reading

Image of Low Alcohol Winery Map in Napa and Sonoma

Wines with Low Alcohol in Napa and Sonoma: The 2021 Winery Map

California wine country has its share of Sonoma and Napa winery maps. Each is organized by geographic region, offering tourists a convenient, vinous travel guide to Napa… Continue Reading

meat grilling on a open fire

Best Fuels for BBQ and Grilling

Flames cook our food, but it’s the fuel that brings the most flavor. In this article, I explore the best fuels for BBQ and grilling—from both natural… Continue Reading

Hand touching meat on a grill with a glass of red wine in the other hand

Wine Pairing with BBQ and Grilled Foods

Grilling has the amazing ability to bring food and wine closer together. Along with transforming simple ingredients through char, smoke and caramelization, the cooking method also impacts… Continue Reading

Green vegetables on a grill being brushed with oil

Unique Grilling Ideas: Veggies, Fruit and Other Surprises

What is it about grilling that makes food taste so good? Is it the unique magic that smoke imparts? The fun of communal cooking with friends and… Continue Reading

photo collage of kayakers on river, close up of beets on plate, lavender and man clapping his hands at outdoor concert

Sonoma County Summer Activities: Top 10 Things to Do

Wine Country summers are made for one thing: getting outside. As Sonoma County emerges from 16 months of COVID-19 restrictions, local wineries, restaurants and outfitters are embracing… Continue Reading

branch centerpiece with chardonnay and cabernet on table

Natural Table Decorations for Outdoor Summer Dinners

Creating a centerpiece is about much more than arranging an assortment of flowers or natural table decorations on the dining table. Instead, I draw inspiration for tablescapes… Continue Reading