The strangest harvest in memory continued into September; but the lightning, fires heat and smoke appeared to be tapering off, and we were all looking for a quick ending to this very odd year. Then things turned really weird. Another record breaking heat wave visited California last week, bringing with it high winds, fires, unhealthy […]
I cooked up a batch of these wings for my grandson’s 16th birthday, and they were a hit for Otto and his three buddies. The adults in the socially spaced crowd enjoyed them as well. INGREDIENTS: 3 pounds chicken wings, cut into drumettes and flats 1 tablespoon baking powder (NOT soda) ½ teaspoon salt 2
Crispy Buffalo Wings with two dips Read More »
Just when we thought we had our arms around our ever changing circumstances, we get hit by dry lightning storms and accompanying wildfires. These fires were no less serious than others over the past several years, and closed down vineyard operations temporarily in the Dry Creek and Russian River Valley appellations. As of this writing
The Beat(ing up) Goes On Read More »
As harvest 2020 begins and the fires temporarily subside, it’s time to think positive thoughts – like what’s for dinner. I’m digging into my freezer for the last of the halibut caught in last year’s Alaskan fishing adventure. Here is a complement to any table. INGREDIENTS: 1 pound halibut, cooked and cooled Salt and pepper
It must be baseball season, as curveballs seem to be everywhere. Regulations regarding restaurant and bar openings, public gatherings, indoor vs. outdoor events – all seem to change at an alarming rate. Moreover, the end is nowhere in sight. Planning is more of a guessing game than ever, but here at Taft Street we are
Life goes on (sorta) Read More »
Here is a side dish that is familiar, tasty and versatile. The spuds are an excellent accompaniment to summertime grills and picnic spreads. No matter what the main dish is, the choice of wine will always be Taft Street. INGREDIENTS: 2 pounds baby Yukon potatoes Sea salt Olive oil COOKING INSTRUCTIONS: Steam baby potatoes in
Fried Smashed Potatoes Read More »
A significant uptick in Covid-19 cases in California has delayed the reopening of sections of the state’s economy. For the wine industry restaurant sales remain virtually nonexistent, and in Sonoma County Tasting Room activities are limited to reservation-only parties who must sit at socially distanced tables. This will undoubtedly change, but no one has been
TWILIGHT Zone CONTINUES Read More »
Here is a quick and tasty dish that is both unique and easy to prepare. It’s a great summer meal, especially with a glass or two of Taft Street Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc. INGREDIENTS: 1 package (3.5 ounces) achiote paste, available in speciality markets 2 garlic gloves, peeled and chopped ¼ cup orange juice
Shrimp in Achiote Sauce Read More »
Here’s a twist on a classic. Almond flour is added to the recipe in order for the cookies to go particularly well with Taft Street’s 2019 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Try it; we think you’ll like it! INGREDIENTS: 1 cup unsalted butter 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Zest from 1 lemon Juice from 1
Lemon Sugar Almond Cookies Read More »
In the cellar Melissa and crew continue doing their magic of the wines of 2019, bottling for clients, and starting preparations for this year’s harvest. It is still early and we have just gone through a brief hot spell, but vineyards look healthy and happy. The Tasting Room remains closed. A number of wineries in
