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Happenings
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Dark Chocolate Bar Decorating Class and Wine Pairing
When: Fri Aug 22, 2025 at 07:30 PM to Fri Aug 22, 2025 at 08:45 PM
Where: 428 E Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Why:
Attendees will enjoy a welcome drink while we give a brief introduction to our bean-to-bar, dark chocolate making process. Ingredients for decorating will abound and inspire, and you'll learn a few tidbits about how we invent flavor combinations for new delicious, sweet products at our chocolate factory. We will fill chocolate bar molds with luscious 75% dark chocolate, and you will get to decorate chocolate bars with local ingredients, like flowers, salt and fruit. While bars are setting up (they require at least 15 minutes in a cooler before you can pop them out, package and take home), we will lead a 20-30 minute chocolate tasting experience while you sip on perfectly paired wines to enhance the flavors. We are happy to provide a non-alcoholic tasting experience for anyone in the group who might require that. Your custom chocolate bars will go home with you in beautiful, resealable Twenty-Four Blackbirds pouches. Don't miss out on this delicious experience!
This event has been designed for adults, but it may be suitable for a mature and curious child above 10 y.o. Please consider the length of the class & note that most of the event requires standing, listening and using fine motor skills. Let us know in the notes section if you sign up someone under 21 years of age.
<a href="
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/twentyfourblackbirds/items/546402/calendar/2025/08/&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw24AoRJOLTf1ChGa0CBk332" target="_blank">
https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/twentyfourblackbirds/items/546402/calendar/2025/08/</a>
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Wine Tasting Event Featuring Alicia Takhar and Justice Massara of McKinney Family Wines
When: Tue Aug 26, 2025 at 05:30 PM to Tue Aug 26, 2025 at 07:30 PM
Where: The Good Land Wine Shop & Bar 4177 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93110, United States
Why:
Come to the shop Tuesday evening at 530pm and meet Justice Massara of McKinney Family Vineyards. What started as a single barrel of wine made in the family's old horse barn has become one of the best boutique wineries in Santa Barbara County. Since its inception 10 years ago, McKinney Family Vineyards has been about fine wine, friends, and family.
Winemaker Justice's passion for wine began during an internship in 2013 on Mount Veeder in Napa Valley where he learned the ropes as a vineyard hand. Justice spent three months living in his tent overlooking some of the finest Bordeaux vines in California and it was there that he discovered his love for wine-growing. In 2014 he moved to Santa Ynez Valley and 2025 will mark his 13th harvest.
So come by the shop and meet Alicia and Justice, have some locally made cheese, listen to live tunes played by Dustin Jansen...the Good Land provides. $25 per person
RSVP to
do...@goodlandwineshop.com++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sip & Swirl on the Rooftop!
When: Wed Aug 27, 2025 at 05:30 PM to Wed Aug 27, 2025 at 07:30 PM
Where: Kimpton Canary Hotel, 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Why:
For $30 per person, this event features local wines to sip & swirl, paired with a bountiful cheese and charcuterie boards to enjoy while admiring the views of the beautiful Santa Barbara skyline. Bring your friends along or come make new ones in a laid-back atmosphere under the stars! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to savor delicious local wines and bites and reserve your spot today!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sip-swirl-on-the-rooftop-tickets-1549898972549++++++++++++++++++++++++
Dark Chocolate Bar Decorating Class and Wine Pairing
When: Sat Aug 30, 2025 at 07:30 PM to Sat Aug 30, 2025 at 08:45 PM
Where: 428 E Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Why:
Attendees will enjoy a welcome drink while we give a brief introduction to our bean-to-bar, dark chocolate making process. Ingredients for decorating will abound and inspire, and you'll learn a few tidbits about how we invent flavor combinations for new delicious, sweet products at our chocolate factory. We will fill chocolate bar molds with luscious 75% dark chocolate, and you will get to decorate chocolate bars with local ingredients, like flowers, salt and fruit. While bars are setting up (they require at least 15 minutes in a cooler before you can pop them out, package and take home), we will lead a 20-30 minute chocolate tasting experience while you sip on perfectly paired wines to enhance the flavors. We are happy to provide a non-alcoholic tasting experience for anyone in the group who might require that. Your custom chocolate bars will go home with you in beautiful, resealable Twenty-Four Blackbirds pouches. Don't miss out on this delicious experience!
This event has been designed for adults, but it may be suitable for a mature and curious child above 10 y.o. Please consider the length of the class & note that most of the event requires standing, listening and using fine motor skills. Let us know in the notes section if you sign up someone under 21 years of age.
https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/twentyfourblackbirds/items/546402/calendar/2025/08/++++++++++++++++++++++++
20th Anniversary Harvest Party
When: Sat Aug 30, 2025 at 12:00 PM to Sat Aug 30, 2025 at 03:00 PM
Where: The Historic Alma Rosa Ranch House, 7250 Santa Rosa Rd., Buellton, CA
Why:
Enjoy an afternoon of fine wine, food truck eats, live music, and a grape stomping tradition as we toast the 2025 harvest! Each guest will receive a signature Alma Rosa T-shirt, perfect for capturing the spirit (and the splash) of your stomping feet!
https://www.almarosawinery.com/events/20th-anniversary-harvest-party++++++++++++++++++++++++
Malibu Food & Wine Festival
When: Fri Sep 5, 2025 at 12:00 AM to Mon Sep 8, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Where: Saddlerock Ranch, 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Why:
Malibu Food & Wine is a three-day destination event that unites celebrated chefs, acclaimed vintners, local legends, and visionary culinary creatives for an unforgettable experience along California’s most iconic coastline. Rooted in purpose and powered by community, the festival blends elevated tastings, immersive dining, and curated activations that spotlight the very best of California’s bounty. More than a food event—it’s a platform for connection, impact, and meaningful engagement.
https://malibufoodandwine.com/++++++++++++++++++++++++
Boots & Barrels - Line Dancing
When: Sat Sep 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM to Sat Sep 6, 2025 at 10:30 AM
Where: Folded Hills - Winery Ranch Farmstead, 2323 Old Coast Hwy, Gaviota, CA 93117, USA
Why:
Dust off your boots and join us for a lively evening of line dancing in the Barn at Folded Hills! With a professional instructor leading the way, dancers of all levels are welcome - whether you’re a seasoned two-stepper or just learning the ropes. In between songs, fuel up with delicious food and sip on Folded Hills wines. Don’t forget to say hello to our beloved Clydesdales, who’ll be hanging out in the nearby pen. Set against the rustic charm of our working ranch, this unforgettable night promises plenty of laughter, toe-tapping, and memories made on the dance floor.
https://www.exploretock.com/foldedhills/event/559210/boots-barrels-line-dancing++++++++++++++++++++++++
Visit
http://livenotessb.com for a comprehensive listing of live music at wine bars, wineries, and other local venues.
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News and other Nonsense
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When Trump tariffs hit French barrels and corks, California’s winemakers feel the squeeze
Small California producers say Trump’s EU levies are driving up costs and threatening family businesses
https://www.theguardian.com/food/2025/aug/15/wine-california-trump-tariffsWine Cabinet Wall Design
Explore creative ideas for designing a stylish wine cabinet wall. Perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to elevate their home decor with a functional and aesthetic wine storage solution.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/wine-cabinet-wall-design--4011087159756976/US tariffs on EU wine and spirits could cost $2bn in lost sales, says coalition
The US has imposed a 15% tariff on EU wine and spirits, potentially causing $2 billion in lost US sales and the loss of over 25,000 American jobs, according to Toasts not Tariffs, a coalition of 57 US associations. The coalition urges a special agreement to benefit businesses on both sides, as the hospitality sector faces significant damage.
https://www.beveragedaily.com/Article/2025/08/07/us-tariffs-on-eu-wine-and-spirits-to-cost-2bn/That Cup of Coffee and Glass of Wine Are Staining Your Teeth. Here's How to Keep Your Smile Bright Without Giving Up Your Favorite Drinks
A dentist shares the best tips and habits to protect your teeth without giving up your favorite drinks.
https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/that-cup-of-coffee-and-glass-of-wine-are-staining-your-teeth-heres-how-to-keep-your-smile-bright-without-giving-up-your-favorite-drinks/Why Alcohol Consumers 20-to-40 are Drinking Less Wine
Value Perception, Pricing, RTDs Taking Share
https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/305790How tariffs could impact French wine imports
Winemakers in Burgundy are worried they will lose U.S. customers.
https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2025/07/11/tariffs-french-wineInside London’s secret wine cellars
The capital’s top hotels contain some of the world’s finest wine collections. Nina Caplan ventured underground to sample their treasures
https://www.thetimes.com/life-style/luxury/article/london-wine-cellars-times-luxury-hdvpm8gsvEconomic Impact Of U.S. Wine Industry Reaches $323 Billion, Supporting Family Wineries
A conversation with Jim Tresize, President of Wine America, highlights the importance of small family wine businesses across America, and their positive impact on the U.S. economy.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/lizthach/2025/07/15/economic-impact-of-us-wine-industry-reaches-323-billion-supporting-family-wineries/Australia's red wine glut set to worsen after increase in national grape crush
Australia crushed more red wine grapes this year but fewer people are drinking it, prompting warnings of a worsening wine glut.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-16/australias-red-wine-glut-set-to-worsen-big-2025-grape-crush/105513420‘Baths, wine, and sex make life worth living’: how ancient Romans used public baths to relax, work out and socialise
Ancient Roman baths were centers for bathing, exercise, business, and pleasure—essential to daily life, leisure, and social interaction.
https://archaeologymag.com/2025/06/baths-wine-and-sex-make-life-worth-living/A New Gardening Hack Using Wine Corks Is Going Viral
A new gardening hack that repurposes old wine corks for drainage has wine fans cheering.
https://www.aol.com/gardening-hack-using-wine-corks-154400826.htmlWine and beer prices rise under new glass packaging levy
A new government packaging levy could add 9p to a bottle of wine and 4p to a bottle of beer as part of its wider net-zero strategy.
https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/06/wine-and-beer-prices-rise-under-new-glass-packaging-levy/I'm a Travel Writer Who Visits Vineyards Each Year—Here's What to Wear to a Winery This Summer From $19
A travel and wine writer shares what to wear to a winery this summer, including comfortable shoes, wide-leg pants, and airy, linen dresses to keep you cool and comfortable. Shop 14 stylish pieces that make up her favorite winery outfits from Amazon, Abercrombie, Madewell, and more, starting at $19.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/what-to-wear-to-a-winery-expert-picks-11720116How Long Does Wine Last After Opening? A Wine Expert Weighs In
Opened wine can last a lot longer than you think -- if you store it the right way.
https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/how-long-does-wine-last-after-opening-a-wine-expert-weighs-in/8 Things You Should Know About Ridge Vineyards, the Winery Behind California’s Iconic Monte Bello Bottle
From Monte Bello to Geyserville and Lytton Springs, Ridge Vineyards works with some of the most iconic vineyard sites in the history of American wine. But while many sommeliers and oenophiles are enamored by the winery’s expressive Bordeaux-style blends and Zinfandels, some might not be aware of just how far back this winery’s history goes. From the conception of the Monte Bello vineyard in the 1800s to the Judgement of Paris, there’s a lot that went into the brand that Ridge is today.
https://vinepair.com/articles/ntk-ridge-vineyards/8 Beers Even Hardcore Wine Lovers Can Get Behind This Summer
We all know the type — the steadfast wine drinker who insists they don't like beer. Blow some minds with these savvy swaps to satisfy winos of all kinds.
https://www.foodandwine.com/beers-for-wine-lovers-11755756First for UC Davis as student wines released for sale
UC Davis has said it will start selling California wines produced by students and staff at its prestigious viticulture and oenology department...
https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/first-for-uc-davis-as-student-wines-released-for-sale-559530/The World’s 50 Best Wines, According To The Decanter World Wine Awards
Decanter’s 22nd World Wine Awards reveal the 50 Best in Show — 2025’s top wines worldwide and must-haves for your cellar or tasting list. Time to start tasting.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/joemicallef/2025/06/18/the-worlds-50-best-wines-according-to-the-decanter-world-wine-awards/++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tomatoes and oregano make it Italian; wine and tarragon make it French. Sour cream makes it Russian; lemon and cinnamon make it Greek. Soy sauce makes it Chinese; garlic makes it good.
- Alice May Brock
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DISCLAIMER: The information in this newsletter is provided as a public service, for informational purposes only. All information in this newsletter is presented without any representation, guaranty, or warranty whatsoever regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.
The information contained in in this newsletter is provided only as general information, which may be incomplete or outdated. Please note that readers of this newsletter are responsible for independently verifying any and all information. The inclusion of links in this newsletter does not imply endorsement or support of any of the linked information, services, products, or providers.
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Live event and news updates can be found at
www.sbwino.org. Please send corrections to
in...@sbwino.org