Author Archives{Beth}

Mountain girl transformed by the coast and enjoying life in Northern California.
Warm Laura Chenel's Chevre and Tomato Confit

Warm Laura Chenel’s Chèvre and Tomato Confit

6 months ago in Chefs' Recipes, Recipes.0 Comments

Congratulations to Laura Chenel’s Chèvre,that won two first-place awards in cheese making from the American Cheese Society 2011 Annual Competition.  The winning cheeses are the Fresh Chèvre and Cabecou.  Try them in this delicious recipe served with summer’s bright star – fresh ripe tomatoes. Warm Laura Chenel’s Chèvre and Tomato Confit Serves 6 1 6.2-ounce jar Laura Chenel’s Chèvre Cabecou {…}

The Russian River in Sonoma County

Splash into Summer Along the Russian River

6 months ago in Itineraries.0 Comments

From Cloverdale in the north, Sonoma County’s Russian River meanders through a handful of towns and travels westward until it joins the Pacific Ocean at Jenner. Along the way are many beaches, picnic spots, boat ramps, and access roads that make it easy to take advantage of the cool water. While some are happy to stand on the bank with {…}

Explore off-beat, quirky Sonoma County

1 year ago in Insiders Guide.1 Comment

Sonoma County is known for spectacular wines, scrumptious farm-to-table cuisine, and amazing natural beauty. However, this world-class destination has a quirky side that begs to be explored. Take a ride on the wild side at the steam-punk inspired Great Handcar Regatta. Explore insect-eating plants, a gravity hill that freaks out drivers, the largest herd of giraffes in the U.S., and {…}

camp site

Wine country campgrounds, getaways for relaxation and adventure

1 year ago in Itineraries.2 Comments

Whether you pitch a tent, lay your head down in a luxury RV, or sleep under the stars, camping remains the best way relax, reconnect with family and friends, and explore Sonoma wine country’s back roads. Sonoma County’s campgrounds offer a full range of opportunities – campgrounds complete with cabins (for those who think “roughing it” is a hotel without {…}

Win two tickets to the Petaluma Music Festival

1 year ago in Insiders Guide.12 Comments

***UPDATE***Thank you to everyone for playing, you know your music trivia.  Congratulations to Nina, who won two tickets to the concert! Rock on in Petaluma to the sounds of Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra), Poor Man’s Whiskey and a variety of other bands.  Sip and sway to the music, with Petaluma’s Lagunitas brews and local wines. {…}

Korbel's Chef Robin Lehnhoff-McCray serves up a refreshing Orzo Pasta with Tangerine Vinaigrette

1 year ago in Chefs' Recipes.0 Comments

Orzo Pasta with Dry Fruit, Nuts, Asiago and Tangerine Vinaigrette Pair with Korbel Brut Rosé 2 pounds Orzo or Rosamarino pasta, cooked, cooled ½  cup dry apricots, chopped ½ cup golden raisins ½ cup dry cranberries 1 bunch fresh mint, chiffonade 1 T fresh chopped garlic 4 ozs. Grated asiago cheese ½ cup toasted pinenuts ½ cup toasted chopped walnuts {…}

Score big with the kids during a Sonoma County vacation

1 year ago in Itineraries.0 Comments

You can tell who are the parents of teens and ‘tweens who are visiting Sonoma County just by looking. They are harried and have a slightly glazed look that says, “How can I keep these kids entertained and still have a knock-out vacation in wine country?” Never fear; Sonoma Insider is here. Bumper boats, anyone? Tearing up the track in {…}

Have a 4th of July blast in Sonoma County

1 year ago in Itineraries.3 Comments

Declare your independence from a run-of-the-mill 4th of July by heading to Sonoma County, where the holiday is sure to be a blast. Parades, fireworks displays, food and wine festivals are being held throughout the area. Check out our online calendar listings for more events.  Lodging, festival, and activity specials are listed here:  Sonoma County Special Deals Get more bang {…}

Vineyard Walks: The new way to see wine country

1 year ago in Itineraries.1 Comment

Lace up your boots, and get ready for a wine adventure.  And  these boots aren’t meant for stomping – they are adventure bound for taking a walk or hike around the vineyards of Sonoma County. Adventure walks are not a new idea, they are as old as the hills … well, since people have been around to do the walking.  {…}

Hot Cheese: Hot menu at a hot new venue

1 year ago in Insiders Guide.3 Comments

Ah, farm market season is open for business. Hunt down that bargain of fresh produce, artisan jams, jellies, and cheeses. Bump into old friends or meet new ones. Enjoy a gourmet meal at a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal. What? Rewind. Yes, Sonoma County’s farm markets are on the foodie radar for trying new chefs and food {…}