Culinary – Blair Spangler

A 1/2 day in one of the Regions picturesque villages offers options for everyone

As everything in these small towns is within walkable distance, a group can be dropped off and left for hours to explore at their leisure to then be picked up at some designated time 4 or 6 hours later. We find groups love the freedom and diverse options. Healdsburg and St Helena are optimal for foodies and restaurants, St helena has the best wineries, (no great spa). All towns have excellent wine tasting, restaurants (groups usually gets together for lunch), shopping, and bike shops with easy biking around town or into neighboring vineyards. If spa services and massage is important, Calistoga is the best choice as the spa there has one-of-a-kind natural thermal water pools, volcanic ash mud baths, and the ability to do simultaneous massages for 20 persons or more. The timing of massages could otherwise extend over many hours for large groups.

Beer

Caviar

Chefs Tastings

We describe 2 popular tastings; our chefs can curate other delicacies that might be to a groups preference; please inquire.
Caviar is a highly prized delicacy. Teams can work in a competitive fashion if so desired.A caviar tasting is an opportunity to indulge in the luxurious experience of savoring the world’s finest caviar. Sparking wine or champagne pairs exquisitely
A tasting of regional olive oils is a meal and a class. Learn about the oils, flavorings, cooking and of course consuming. Caifornia olive oils range from mild and buttery to robust and peppery largely influenced by the type of olives and the region where they were grown.

Cooking Classes on any topic or style

All our properties have commercial grade kitchens and equipment for our chefs. The St Helena property has 2 kitchens, one being a professional demonstration kitchen with adjoining classroom which is an optimal set up for a cooking class for up to 24. Cooking classes afford a great opportunity for guests to work in competitive teams while learning or perfecting a skill.

Farm Tours

Agriculture, other than grapes, has been a significant part of the county’s economy for over a century. Visitors can explore local farms and orchards, participate in farm-to-table experiences, and sample artisanal cheeses, honey, olive oil, and other locally produced food products. Curated based on your group’s preferences, timing, and farm availability; the possibilities are endless.

Foodie Walking Tour

A foodie walking tour in Sonoma or Napa County is an excellent way to discover the hidden culinary gems and experience the local food culture. These tours take visitors on a journey through the most charming neighborhoods, historic downtowns, and vibrant marketplaces, introducing them to the local agriculture, food culture and the people who make it happen. With a variety of tours to choose from, visitors can tailor their experience to their favorite restaurants, wines and culinary preferences.

Olive Oil

Our Chefs Share Their Knowledge

Our chefs always welcome our guests into the kitchen. If a relatively in-depth explanation or demonstration is desired, pls advise the chef in advance so she/he can plan accordingly to have the time and staff to see to your preferences