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May 9th, 2008 (Fri)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 9th, 2008 (Fri)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  Taste of COPIA Lunch: Celebrating Artisans
Interactive cooking demo, garden talk and lunch with wine

Hand-crafted in small batches. Made by real people with love and the expertise of an artist. Is your mouth watering yet? Join Director of Culinary Programs Jacquelyn Buchanan, Garden Manager Geoff Palla and Wine Educator Lily Peterson for a meal flavored with the best of artisan food and wine.

Menu: Artisan Charcuterie with Seasonal Composed Salads • Pan-Seared Jamison Farm Lamb Noisette with Spring Herb and Zinfandel, Braised Shallots, Golden Jewel Blend Rice and Roasted Asparagus • Berry and Apricot Galette with Scented Geranium-Infused Crème Anglaise

May 02, 2008 (Fri)
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Cost: $50 general

Celebrating Artisans

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
copia.org
info@copia.org
May 9th, 2008 (Fri)
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Unusual Grape Tasting at Back Room Wines
Do you enjoy tasting high quality wines made from grapes you've never had before. This tasting could be for you! We'll try wines from around the world made from grapes indigenous to the area. Come have a good time, and learn about a few new wine grapes!

Wines poured are on sale for special 10% off tonight only.

$15/Tasting

Back Room Wines
974 Franklin Street
Downtown Napa, CA 94559
707-226-1378
Back Room Wines
daniel@backroomwines.com
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  Cellar Door Red Weekends
The Cellar Door Red Weekend at The Hess Collection Winery recalls the 19th century origins of the winery as an exotic mountain resort in “The Napa Redwoods,” a time when it was not unusual for locals to refill their bottles at a local winery.

Purchasers of The Hess Collection’s commemorative bottles are invited to return to the original barrel chai on the second weekend of each month to refill their bottles with wine made from Mount Veeder grapes, as locals would have a hundred years ago.

Half Gallon Bottles: $21.00, Refill: $12.00

10:00AM - 5:00PM

The Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road Napa, CA 94558
(707) 255-1144
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  A day in the vineyard at Judd's Hill and the Napa Valley Vintners
Visit Judd's Hill for an educational vineyard experience. We will be hosting the Napa Valley Vintners Association for a day in the vineyards. There will be staff on hand to explain what's happening in our surrounding vineyard property and we will be offering sampling of our wonderful wines as well. We look forward to seeing you!

Judd's Hill Winery
2332 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
707 255-2332
http://www.juddshill.com/juddshill/news/show_event.jsp?id=1027
pat@juddshill.com
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Oyster Rodeo and 2007 White Maximus Release at Bennett Lane Winery
Please join us at Bennett Lane Winery for an 'Oysterodeo' in honor of our long awaited release of the newest White Maximus Sauvignon Blanc Blend.

Hog Island Oyster Company is bringing their famed oysters to Bennett Lane, and our own Jim May will be cooking up all sorts of cowboy fare, paired perfectly with our favorite white wine blend. So bring your cowboy hat and lasso and grab a case before it disappears! Our 2005 White Maximus was named one of the top 10 California Sauvignon Blancs of the year by Wine Spectator.

May 10, 2008 (Sat)
12:00PM - 4:00PM
$30

Bennett Lane Events

Bennett Lane Winery
3340 Highway 128
Calistoga, CA 94515
877-629-6272
info@bennettlane.com
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Artisan Wine, Food & Art Festival at COPIA
Walk-around winetasting with food and art

Saturday, 5/10 & Sunday, 5/11 •
12:00 - 4:00 pm

Admission to COPIA on this weekend will be by festival pass only. COPIA opens at 11:00 am both days.

Boutique wine and food producers come together with top Bay Area artists for a festive spring weekend of wine, food, art and more. Check out original artworks as you taste exceptional, hard-to-find wines from small producers (who make 5,000 or fewer cases a year), complemented by select breads, cheeses and charcuterie. From handcrafted wines to hand-blown glass, you won’t want to miss this celebration of all things artisan.

Festival admission includes wineglass, winetasting and food samples. Artwork and additional food items available for purchase.

At the Artisan Grill

Enjoy hot-off-the-grill sausages or burgers with soda and chips: $7/plate

(Vegetarian option available.)

Artisan Wine, Food & Art Festival

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
copia.org
info@copia.org
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  The Ultimate Blind Date Wine Country Style - Appellation St. Helena
We're thrilled to return to beautiful Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards for our fourth Annual Consumer Tasting on Saturday, May 10. As you know, the winery itself is normally open by appointment only, so this is a wonderful opportunity to explore a true signature of St. Helena, a gracious 19th-century stone winery, which is now solar powered by the way.

You will enter the tasting through the fabulous caves emerging on the stunning terrace and pavilion where you can taste your way through over 90 wines - elegant offerings from more than 30 wineries of Appellation St. Helena.

Relax and enjoy vistas of the Napa Valley, or stroll in the vineyards. And this year, we are proud to announce that the icon of American epicurean experience, Dean & DeLuca, is co-presenter and will cater delicious food for the event, designed to pair with the extraordinary wines of Appellation St. Helena.

Once again we will hold our very popular blind tasting competition. Everyone can, and should, enter this tasting, especially since it is so much fun and even better, all entrants have a chance to win an instant Appellation St. Helena Cellar worth over $1,500! Please don't be shy. You can practice your skills before entering since many of the "blind" wines will be available on the tasting tables. And even if you are guessing, (a) we won't tell anyone that you thought Petite Sirah was Cabernet and (b) you might be the lucky winner of all that fantastic wine. Who cares how many you got right, as you lug three cases of yum wines to your car?

A portion of the ticket price will be donated to Work Connection, a St. Helena non-profit service helping vineyard workers to find employment with growers and wineries throughout Napa Valley.

75.00 per person

Flora Springs Winery & Vineyards
1978 West Zinfandel Lane
St. Helena, CA 94574
707-963-6045
info@appellationsthelena.com
Appellation St. Helena Wine Tasting
May 10th, 2008 (Sat)
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  Straight Up With A Twist - Gilbert & Sullivan
NVOH & Lamplighters Music Theatre Present Straight Up With A Twist

The straight story behind one of the greatest partnerships in theatre history, told in their own words, with musical highlights from all 13 G&S comic operas. Meet Arthur Sullivan and W.S. Gilbert, overhear their creative infighting (in their own words) and enjoy a large selection of songs and choruses, both familiar favorites and beauties from infrequently staged productions.

Sullivan's music is wonderful: it's hummable; it's accessible the first time but it also has something for you on the 30th time. And Gilbert's words, with their incredible polish, sophistication and humor-it's infectious. - Baker Peeples

May Shows

Lamplighters Music Theatre
Saturday, May 10, 8 PM & Sunday, May 11, 2 PM

Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri., 12 noon-4 pm Sat.
1030 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
http://www.napavalleyoperahouse.org
May 11th, 2008 (Sun)
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  Cellar Door Red Weekends
The Cellar Door Red Weekend at The Hess Collection Winery recalls the 19th century origins of the winery as an exotic mountain resort in “The Napa Redwoods,” a time when it was not unusual for locals to refill their bottles at a local winery.

Purchasers of The Hess Collection’s commemorative bottles are invited to return to the original barrel chai on the second weekend of each month to refill their bottles with wine made from Mount Veeder grapes, as locals would have a hundred years ago.

Half Gallon Bottles: $21.00, Refill: $12.00

10:00AM - 5:00PM

The Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road Napa, CA 94558
(707) 255-1144
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 11th, 2008 (Sun)
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Artisan Wine, Food & Art Festival at COPIA
Walk-around winetasting with food and art

Saturday, 5/10 & Sunday, 5/11 •
12:00 - 4:00 pm

Admission to COPIA on this weekend will be by festival pass only. COPIA opens at 11:00 am both days.

Boutique wine and food producers come together with top Bay Area artists for a festive spring weekend of wine, food, art and more. Check out original artworks as you taste exceptional, hard-to-find wines from small producers (who make 5,000 or fewer cases a year), complemented by select breads, cheeses and charcuterie. From handcrafted wines to hand-blown glass, you won’t want to miss this celebration of all things artisan.

Festival admission includes wineglass, winetasting and food samples. Artwork and additional food items available for purchase.

At the Artisan Grill

Enjoy hot-off-the-grill sausages or burgers with soda and chips: $7/plate

(Vegetarian option available.)

Artisan Wine, Food & Art Festival

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
copia.org
info@copia.org
May 11th, 2008 (Sun)
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Straight Up With A Twist - Gilbert & Sullivan
NVOH & Lamplighters Music Theatre Present Straight Up With A Twist

The straight story behind one of the greatest partnerships in theatre history, told in their own words, with musical highlights from all 13 G&S comic operas. Meet Arthur Sullivan and W.S. Gilbert, overhear their creative infighting (in their own words) and enjoy a large selection of songs and choruses, both familiar favorites and beauties from infrequently staged productions.

Sullivan's music is wonderful: it's hummable; it's accessible the first time but it also has something for you on the 30th time. And Gilbert's words, with their incredible polish, sophistication and humor-it's infectious. - Baker Peeples

http://www.lamplighters.org/ $40/$35

Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri., 12 noon-4 pm Sat.
1030 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
http://www.napavalleyoperahouse.org
May 15th, 2008 (Thu)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
Hess Experience
May 15th, 2008 (Thu)
8:00 PM
  Kenny Carnes: Pieces of War
Playwright and holistic counselor Kenny Carnes, a former attack helicopter pilot, uses a captivating cadence of rhythm and rhyme to explore the complex issues of war. Through verse, this one-man show weaves the stories from three generations of American soldiers into a heartfelt rendition of humanity—inspired by true stories. A profound and timely dialogue that unites audiences in the universal journey of life and loss.

A voice of hope out of a place of despair, a light in the house of darkness. Explosive! Poignant drama. Splendid. - –TCASK

May Shows

Kenny Carnes

Napa Valley Opera House
1030 Main Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri.,
May 16th, 2008 (Fri)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 16th, 2008 (Fri)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  Taste of COPIA Lunch: Celebrating Artisans
Interactive cooking demo, garden talk and lunch with wine

Hand-crafted in small batches. Made by real people with love and the expertise of an artist. Is your mouth watering yet? Join Director of Culinary Programs Jacquelyn Buchanan, Garden Manager Geoff Palla and Wine Educator Lily Peterson for a meal flavored with the best of artisan food and wine.

Menu: Artisan Charcuterie with Seasonal Composed Salads • Pan-Seared Jamison Farm Lamb Noisette with Spring Herb and Zinfandel, Braised Shallots, Golden Jewel Blend Rice and Roasted Asparagus • Berry and Apricot Galette with Scented Geranium-Infused Crème Anglaise

May 02, 2008 (Fri)
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Cost: $50 general

Celebrating Artisans

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
copia.org
info@copia.org
May 16th, 2008 (Fri)
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Spring Rosé Wine Tasting at Back Room Wines
Time to think pink once again! Back Room Wines pours seven of our favorite Rosé wines. We pour the pinkies from the U.S., France and Spain. It's not wine on training wheels anymore. These wines rock!

Wines poured are on sale for special 10% off tonight only.

Come join the mostly local crowd for a Friday Night Tasting at Back Room Wines!

May 16, 2008 (Fri)5:00PM - 9:00PM - $10/Tasting

Back Room Wines - a great wine shop in Napa Valley
974 Franklin Street,
Downtown Napa, California 94559
(707) 226-1378
(877) 322-2576
daniel@backroomwines.com
http://www.backroomwines.com/contact/index.php
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  The Napa Valley Aviation Expo
Dozens of new and previously-owned private aircraft will be on display at The Napa Valley Aviation Expo, on the weekend of May 17 & 18, 2008 at the Napa Valley Airport.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. each day, and running until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, the Napa Valley Aviation Expo will offer aircraft enthusiasts of all levels a chance to get up close and personal with some of the world's finest private aircraft, including the wildly popular new VLJ category (Very Light Jets).

Some of the aircraft that will be on display are Embraer’s Legacy 600 Executive Jet, the Pilatus PC-12 TurboProp, and more to be announced.

Attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about private aviation, board some of the aircraft and speak with aviation and private aircraft experts. The aircraft in the expo are also available for purchase, for anyone looking into the possibilities of private travel. In addition to the dozens of aircraft on display, the Napa Valley Aviation Expo will feature food and beverages for purchase and other entertainment for people of all ages, including biplane rides.

Napa County Airport location

Free

Napa Valley Airport
2030 Airport Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 224-0887
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
  Robert Craig Winery Spring Release Party - Downtown Napa
We're pulling out all the stops to introduce our latest wine releases. Highlighting the event is the debut of our 2006 Robert Craig Howell Mountain Zinfandel produced from the Black-Sears Vineyard. Also featured are the 2005 Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2005 Affinity, our flagship Bordeaux-style Cabernet Sauvignon blend.

Enjoy wine and food pairings, music, a barrel tasting of Mt. Veeder Cabernet and older vintages. RSVP deadline is Monday, May 12. For reservations, call 707-252-2250, ext 1.

Our Downtown Napa Tasting Room is normally open by appointment Mon-Sat from 10 am to 4:30 pm.

Tasting room & Directions

May 17, Saturday
10:30AM - 2:30PM
$15/person

Robert Craig Downtown Napa Tasting Room
880 Vallejo Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-252-2250, ext 1
peter@robertcraigwine.com
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  La Strada dell' Arte Napa Valley Italian Street Painting Festival
This age old art form will be recreated in the tradtion of 16th Century Italy as over 200 artists create masterpieces on the asphalt with chalk. The event is anticipated to attract thousands of guests, includes music, food, wine, entertainment, auctions and a children's section all set on the beautiful grounds of COPIA, making this an event no one will want to miss.

4th Annual La Strada dell' Arte Napa Valley!

The Festival, benefits Napa New Technology High school and is held on Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, 2008 at COPIA: The American Center for Wine Food & the Arts, in the Garden Promenade.

This age old art form will be recreated in the tradition of 16th Century Italy as artists create masterpieces on the asphalt with chalk!

Free

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
Italian Street Painting Festival
info@copia.org

Free
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  Rutherford Appellation Wineries Passport Weekend
Experience the wineries of the Rutherford Appellation as never before, with special wine tastings, food pairings and entertainment. The event highlights and celebrates the wineries of Rutherford, the historic heart of Napa Valley. Each winery will feature its own unique wine tasting experience, including barrel samples, special library wine offerings, wine and food pairings, winemaker and winery owner presence and special Passport Weekend discounts.

Rutherford Appellation Wineries Passport Weekend

May 17 & 18 Sat & Sun
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
$50/weekend $40/Sunday only

707-302-1124
info@rutherford-appellation-wineries.com
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Jay Johnson The Two And Only!
In his 30-year career, Jay Johnson has converted generations of ventriloquist-averse Americans with his charm, anarchy and innovative wit. In this show, winner of the 2007 Tony Award for “Special Theatrical Event,” Johnson takes us on a multidimensional journey through a parade of characters that range from a subversive monkey to a withering tennis ball. He is at once writer, philosopher, comic, poet and artist! Suitable for audiences eight years and older.

Extremely funny, touching and affecting. A super-virtuoso! - The Wall Street Journal

Jay Johnson The Two And Only!

$30 All Seats

Napa Valley Opera House
1030 Main Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri.,
12 noon-4 pm Sat.
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  21st Annual Calistoga Education Foundation - Celebrate Discovery
Wine, Food, Auctions and Fun!

We have many fabulous, sought-after wines, fun packages, beautiful student projects, and much more, all up for bid.

Celebrate Discovery. The theme relates to Science which includes life (biology & zoology), earth (geology, geography, oceanography), space (astronomy, cosmology), etc. Dress-to-theme is optional, enjoyment of the gorgeous, creative decorations, is required!

Food and wine tasting will be provided by local restaurants and vintners. This is a wonderful opportunity to sample the products of the upper Napa Valley all under one roof. Many of the offerings will be served by the restaurant operators and the winemakers so you may have the opportunity to complement the chef or the vintner in person.

Saturday, May 17, 2008
$55 advance or $65 at the door

4pm – 6:30pm Food, Wine, Silent Auction
6:30pm – 9 pm Live Auction
9pm – 11pm Dancing to Live Music with a fabulous local band, The Echos

Food, Wine, Silent Auction

Napa County Fairgrounds, Tubbs Building
1435 N Oak St
Calistoga, CA 94515
707.942.4703
Info:Kelly Monhoff-Croman 707-291-6516
kelly@rogers-young.com
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  STAVE Wine Lounge - Oyster and Wine Night - Downtown Napa
Slurp up half a dozen oysters (blue point and pacific) paired with three wines

May 17, 2008
4:00pm-7:00pm
$20

Oysters & Wine

STAVE Wine Lounge
1149 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-259-5411
info@stavewinelounge.com
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  Cooking Class - COOKING with JULIE
California Bouillabaisse Dinner

We will make the classic bouillabaisse recipe using seafood and fish from California and lobster from Maine. This is a meal to linger over and have long conversations as you enjoy the many tastes and textures. Rouille sauce is a red pepper and garlic sauce serve with the bouillabaisse. We will end the me with a refreshing pink grape fruit sorbet infused with basil and lemon grass.

Asparagus with Tangerine Olive oil and olives
California Bouillabaisse
Rouille Sauce
Pink Grapefruit Sorbet with Basil and Lemon

May 17, 2008 (Sat)
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
$125

Cooking with Julie
1039 La Quinta Ct.
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 227-5036
julie@cookingwithjulie.com
http://cookingwithjulie.com/
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Jay Johnson The Two And Only!
In his 30-year career, Jay Johnson has converted generations of ventriloquist-averse Americans with his charm, anarchy and innovative wit. In this show, winner of the 2007 Tony Award for “Special Theatrical Event,” Johnson takes us on a multidimensional journey through a parade of characters that range from a subversive monkey to a withering tennis ball. He is at once writer, philosopher, comic, poet and artist! Suitable for audiences eight years and older.

Extremely funny, touching and affecting. A super-virtuoso! - The Wall Street Journal

http://www.thetwoandonly.com/ $30 All Seats

Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri., 12 noon-4 pm Sat.
1030 Main Street, Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
http://www.napavalleyoperahouse.org
May 17th, 2008 (Sat)
7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
  Madonnari Mingle and Auction:
Come join the 'Carnevale' at the Madonnari Mingle and Live & Silent Auctions! You can rub elbows with the artists while you dance the night away to the tunes of 'The Jazz Explosion' featuring the sensational vocalist, Loralee Christianson, and superb guitarist, John Fine. Sip delicious wine, savor the hors d'oeurves, bid on wonderful auction items and bask under the glow of the stars in COPIA's South Garden Promenade.

7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Madonnari Mingle and Auction:

Tickets are on sale now! $40 per person or $45 at the door

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
Italian Street Painting Festival
info@copia.org
May 18th, 2008 (Sun)
  Raising Spirits: Art and Wine in the Western World with Kirsten Shilakes
Raising Spirits: Art and Wine in the Western World a program of The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco presented by WineSpirit.

In this slideshow presentation, art and wine history lecturer Kirsten Ditterich-Shilakes weaves entertaining tid-bits and lore showing wine’s wide ranging impacts, from poetry to politics.

Find out how the subject of wine has captured the attention of artists ranging from the 16th century Renaissance painter, Titian, to the contemporary Bay Area master, Thiebaud. Throughout history, wine-related subject matter, such as the silhouette of a wine glass or still lifes of fleshy, sweet, grape clusters, has served as muse for art. This photographic journey will trace the history of wine in art, spanning geographies from Egypt to California and explore intriguing gustatory connections between wine and its intersections with the Fine Arts Museums’ collection.

Kirsten will be weaving four unique wine tastings of Clos Pegase wine in the course of her presentation, engaging all senses, connecting art and wine into the experience of the hour.

May 18, 2008 (Sun)
4:00PM - 6:00PM
$20

Raising Spirits

Clos Pegase Winery
1060 Dunaweal Lane
Calistoga, CA 94515
707-261-8716
execdir@winespirit.org
May 18th, 2008 (Sun)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  The Napa Valley Aviation Expo
Dozens of new and previously-owned private aircraft will be on display at The Napa Valley Aviation Expo, on the weekend of May 17 & 18, 2008 at the Napa Valley Airport.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. each day, and running until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, the Napa Valley Aviation Expo will offer aircraft enthusiasts of all levels a chance to get up close and personal with some of the world's finest private aircraft, including the wildly popular new VLJ category (Very Light Jets).

Some of the aircraft that will be on display are Embraer’s Legacy 600 Executive Jet, the Pilatus PC-12 TurboProp, and more to be announced.

Attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about private aviation, board some of the aircraft and speak with aviation and private aircraft experts. The aircraft in the expo are also available for purchase, for anyone looking into the possibilities of private travel. In addition to the dozens of aircraft on display, the Napa Valley Aviation Expo will feature food and beverages for purchase and other entertainment for people of all ages, including biplane rides.

Napa County Airport location

Free

Napa Valley Airport
2030 Airport Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 224-0887
May 18th, 2008 (Sun)
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  Rutherford Appellation Wineries Passport Weekend
Experience the wineries of the Rutherford Appellation as never before, with special wine tastings, food pairings and entertainment. The event highlights and celebrates the wineries of Rutherford, the historic heart of Napa Valley. Each winery will feature its own unique wine tasting experience, including barrel samples, special library wine offerings, wine and food pairings, winemaker and winery owner presence and special Passport Weekend discounts.

Rutherford Appellation Wineries Passport Weekend

May 17 & 18 Sat & Sun
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
$50/weekend $40/Sunday only

707-302-1124
info@rutherford-appellation-wineries.com
May 18th, 2008 (Sun)
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  La Strada dell' Arte Napa Valley Italian Street Painting Festival
This age old art form will be recreated in the tradtion of 16th Century Italy as over 200 artists create masterpieces on the asphalt with chalk. The event is anticipated to attract thousands of guests, includes music, food, wine, entertainment, auctions and a children's section all set on the beautiful grounds of COPIA, making this an event no one will want to miss.

4th Annual La Strada dell' Arte Napa Valley!

The Festival, benefits Napa New Technology High school and is held on Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, 2008 at COPIA: The American Center for Wine Food & the Arts, in the Garden Promenade.

This age old art form will be recreated in the tradition of 16th Century Italy as artists create masterpieces on the asphalt with chalk!

Free

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
Italian Street Painting Festival
info@copia.org

Free
May 20th, 2008 (Tue)
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  The Banquet: A History of Fine Dining...with Paul Wagner
What must have begun as the most primitive communal dining during the Stone Age has now grown into the essence of a cultural expression. And yet, we can trace the roots of some of these rituals back to pre-history. The discussion will follow the Banquet throughout history, from the ancients to the modern day, with a few side trips to visit Greece, Rome, Catherine de Medici, Don Juan, Emily Post, and Queen Victoria.

Includes wine and taste treats in the first half hour

About Our Presenter:

Paul Wagner, who heads Balzac Communications, is a wine historian, based in Napa, who teaches A Cultural History of Wine at Napa Valley College and lectures throughout the world on wine’s historic role in elevating life. His humorous way of capturing the past brings to life wine’s unique contribution to the history of human life, civilization and the diverse cultures that have included wine at the dinner table and the alter of life.
History of Fine Dining

May 20, 2008 (Tue)
7:00PM - 9:00PM
$15

Trefethen Family Vineyard
1160 Oak Knoll Avenue
Napa, CA 94558
707-261-8716
execdir@winespirit.org
May 22nd, 2008 (Thu)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
Hess Experience
May 23rd, 2008 (Fri)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 23rd, 2008 (Fri)
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
  Taste of COPIA Lunch: Celebrating Artisans
Interactive cooking demo, garden talk and lunch with wine

Hand-crafted in small batches. Made by real people with love and the expertise of an artist. Is your mouth watering yet? Join Director of Culinary Programs Jacquelyn Buchanan, Garden Manager Geoff Palla and Wine Educator Lily Peterson for a meal flavored with the best of artisan food and wine.

Menu: Artisan Charcuterie with Seasonal Composed Salads • Pan-Seared Jamison Farm Lamb Noisette with Spring Herb and Zinfandel, Braised Shallots, Golden Jewel Blend Rice and Roasted Asparagus • Berry and Apricot Galette with Scented Geranium-Infused Crème Anglaise

May 02, 2008 (Fri)
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Cost: $50 general

Celebrating Artisans

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
copia.org
info@copia.org
May 23rd, 2008 (Fri)
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Mediterranean Wine Tasting at Back Room Wines
Come to Back Room Wines Friday Night, May 23 for a fun tasting of red Mediterranean wines. Requirement to be in this tasting is A) Red, B) VERY GOOD and C) grapes are within spittin' distance of the Mediterrean Sea. We have Spain, France, Italy (including Sicily and Sardinia) and Greece from which to choose. Wine poured on sale for special 10% off tonight only.

May 23, 2008 (Fri)5:00PM - 9:00PM - $10/Tasting

Back Room Wines - a great wine shop in Napa Valley
974 Franklin Street,
Downtown Napa, California 94559
(707) 226-1378
(877) 322-2576
daniel@backroomwines.com
http://www.backroomwines.com/contact/index.php
May 23rd, 2008 (Fri)
8:00 PM
  An Intimate Evening with Herb Alpert & Lani Hall
Herb Alpert and Lani Hall perform a rare and cozy evening of American and Brazilian jazz featuring a trio of masterful musicians—Bill Cantos on piano, Michael Shapiro on drums and Hussain Jiffrey on bass. Original arrangements of favorite American standard songs will be performed with some spicy Brazilian music in the mix. Alpert’s warm, expressive trumpet lines compliment Hall’s sensual, emotional voice, making this an enchanting evening of sophisticated music for all.

Herb Alpert & Lani Hall

Friday, May 23, 8PM
$45

Napa Valley Opera House

Napa Valley Opera House
1030 Main Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-226-7372
Napa Valley Opera House Box Office
Open 10 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri.,
12 noon-4 pm Sat.
May 24th, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 24th, 2008 (Sat)
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Artist Opening - "Memories to Share" by Dean Brittingham.
Both wineries will be pouring their latest releases as well as some barrel samples. Come meet the owners of these up and coming wineries and try their premier releases!

May 24, 2008
6:00pm-9:00pm
Free

Artist Dean Brittingham.

STAVE Wine Lounge
1149 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707-259-5411
info@stavewinelounge.com
May 29th, 2008 (Thu)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
Hess Experience
May 30th, 2008 (Fri)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 31st, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  Napa Valley Art Festival
The Napa Valley Art Festival is a juried exhibit and sale featuring over 40 of the West's premier representational artists showing original works.

Napa Valley Art Festival

Free Admission

COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts
500 First Street
Napa, CA 94559
707.259.1600
888.512.6742
May 31st, 2008 (Sat)
10:00 AM
  Tour of the Palette at the Hess Colection Winery in Napa
Tour of the Palette

This informative tour includes a guided journey through Donald Hess' contemporary art gallery and three of their current release wines expertly paired with three culinary delight created by executive Chek Chad Hendrickson. Tours are offered Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00AM and 2:00PM.

$50 per person - reservations are required

Hess Collection
4411 Redwood Road
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 265-3489
http://www.hesscollection.com/web/experience.html
info@hesscollection.com
May 31st, 2008 (Sat)
1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
  Frazier Winery Open House with Oysterodeo, Live Music & More!
Join Frazier Winery and Oysterodeo for a kickin' good time! What better way to celebrate spring and the release of our 2005 Lupine Hill wines than with BBQ'd oysters, live music and other delicious BBQ fare prepared by the owner himself, Bill Frazier. We'll see you there!

May 31st, 1pm-4:30pm

Tickets: $35

RSVP deadline: May 21st

Fun fact: ticket price may be applied toward a $50 purchase
of wine at the event...buy wine, come free! Coupon's will be given out at the door.

Frazier Winery Open House

Frazier Winery
70 Rapp Lane
Napa, CA 94558
kim@frazierwinery.com
707-255-3444
May 31st, 2008 (Sat)
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  Pink Floyd Laserspectacular
Paramount’s LaserSpectacular featuring the Music of Pink Floyd returns to Lincoln Theater with a newly-designed show featuring even more legendary rock music broadcast via 10,000 watts of concert quality sound and a cutting-edge laser light show that can be viewed in 3D. After touring the country for more that 20 years, this show is truly a cult classic that carries the audience away on a mind-expanding journey driven by cutting-edge visual effects.

$20/$30/$40

Lincoln Theater’s 50th Anniversary Season
100 California Drive
Yountville, CA 94599
707.944.1300
Box Office Hours: 10:00-4:00pm Mon-Fri
and 90 minutes prior to each performance
http://www.lincolntheater.com
 
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