tales from a wine country kitchen
Nothing like a much-needed technology detox, a local luxury getaway away, and the first seasonal stars of Spring to put the “kitchen pep back into my blogging step”.
It starts with a beautiful view from my hotel suite. Honestly, how could I not be inspired? Cavallo Point, you’re one special place to visit.
Welcome to my real-life Renoir painting; anytime I visit Dry Creek and Alexander Valley in Northern Sonoma County, I feel transported to another place and time. Maybe its the quaint old fashion general stores with the wide oak plank floors, or the endless wineries dotting the valley floor. Whatever it is, it’s beautiful. And I’m so happy to call this my home.
This past Saturday, I indulged in Sonoma County’s annual Wine and Food Affair. Two of my favorite things, no way I was going to miss it.
photo courtesy: etown.org
Artisano let’s the public experience small-scale wineries, artisanal foods and local artists of Northern California. If you’re interested in finding the next great cult wine or sampling the local and handcrafted—Artisano is a must.
Every year Artisano supports a local beneficiary with a silent auction; this year they’re pairing up with Sonoma County local darling: Ceres Community Project in Sebastopol, California. For those not familiar with Ceres, the Ceres Community Project is a mission-driven organization that gives teens experience in growing and preparing healthy food for those facing cancer and other life-threatening illnesses with nourishing meals.
Rachel makes 50,000 jars of jam a year.
50,000 jars and 80 different flavors are produced in her Blue Chair Fruit Company kitchen located in Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood.
All this jam, with all these flavors, done by two people.
{impressive}
Rachel is the author of the Blue Chair Jam Cookbook. A body of work that celebrates her 10 years of dedication to mastering jams and marmalade. She doesn’t dabble is sauces or syrups. She is a purist. Jams only.
It’s crazy interesting to be taught by somebody with such focus and dedication.
I have total admiration for Ms. Rachel Saunders.
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