Wine Player
Unlike many star athletes, golf Hall-of-Famer Annika Sorenstam has bypassed the front of the Wheaties box and gone straight to her own signature wine label. “After meeting with Carolyn and Karl Wente, learning about their incredible family history, trying their wines, and seeing their beautiful course, I knew that I wanted to partner with them,” she says. At a recent golf clinic on the sunny East Bay Wente greens, Sorenstam shared tips on putting: “Go forward [with your putter] as far as you go back, eyes over the ball and, most importantly, relax.” Advice on enjoying her wine? “That part’s easy. Just drink it with a good meal and with good friends.” annikavineyards.com
Anniversary Party
This fall, to celebrate its 25th year, Auberge du Soleil is hosting a few exclusive soirees (limited to 50 people), in partnership with wineries that are also celebrating big anniversaries this year. Far Niente is toasting its 125th, while award-winning Swanson Winery is enjoying its 25th year in business. Party-goers are eligible for a special Auberge room rate September 11 and October 30. aubergedusoleil.com
Cheese, please
Turophiles and oenophiles unite! Healdsburg’s C. Donatiello Winery now offers a new tasting experience—pairing four select cheeses from three Sonoma County creameries with a flight of its single-vineyard estate chardonnays and pinot noirs. Each cheese plate comes with locally produced accoutrements and fresh cuttings from the winery’s organic garden. $20 per person; reservations required. 707.431.4442, cdonatiello.com
It’s open!
For the first time, Sonoma-Cutrer Winery has opened its doors to the public. Features include a newly renovated tasting room and tours. sonomacutrer.com
