September is California Wine Month -- Start Sipping at these Events

Vineyards in Napa Valley. All Photos courtesy of the Wine Institute

Governor Jerry Brown decreed September “California Wine Month.” So start sipping.

Though Californians tend to celebrate local wines year-round, Governor Brown has declared September to be wine month. In his proclamation, the governor cites the many great things the wine industry brings to California, from the beauty of wine regions, the jobs created and revenue generated, to the industry’s commitment to sustainability. According to Gladys Horiuchi with the Wine Institute, this month “Is a way for people to really feel part of the harvest. You can get out to wineries and smell the grapes being crushed and be part of the excitement.”

Wondering about wines from Santa Clara or Livermore? Try over 60 wines from all over California on Saturday, Sept. 22nd at the Ferry Building.

To celebrate, California Wine Institute has organized a California Wines Road Trip main event this Saturday, September 22nd at the Ferry Building in San Francisco. If you’ve wanted to sample wines from the Sierra Foothills or Santa Barbara, this is great opportunity. There will be over 60 wines to taste, representing wineries from 14 regions around the state.

Cheese, charcuterie and other snacks will be served at California Wines Road Trip event.

Owners of the vineyards will be there, and local cheeses and salumi will be served.
September 22nd 2:00-5:00 pm
$35 per person Purchase tickets
Ferry Building Marketplace, Grand Hall
San Francisco, CA.

This month California wineries are offering lots of ways to enjoy harvest season.

If this inspires you to get out and about in wine country, there are some great ways to experience local wines and wineries offering specials and hosting events through the month of September.

Santa Cruz:
Santa Cruz is a hot spot for small, family owned wineries that are turning out great, but hard to find wines. Pinot Noir lovers will want to go on the Private Vineyard Tours at Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery. Since you’re in the area, travel the Summit to Sea Trail and make your way from high altitude at Loma Prieta Winery to sea level, with stops at Dancing Creek and Poetic Cellars along the way.

Livermore:
Murrieta’s Well hosts a popular La Luna Fridays, where people gather to enjoy tapas, live music and wine under the moonlight from 6-9pm on the first Friday of the month.

Lodi:
Adventure into winemaking at the Lucas Winery. Every Sunday you can work with the winemakers and learn the trade, from soil types to blending techniques.

Napa:
On September 29th, Peju Winery is hosting a farm to table feast to celebrate the harvest season. Cost: $175 members/$195 non-members.

Sonoma:
The Sonoma Valley CRUSH takes places September 29-30, 2012 throughout wineries on the Sonoma Valley Wine Trail. Designate a driver and get tasting. Cost $35, designated drivers $10.

San Luis Obispo:
Sunset Savor the Central Coast, September 27-30, 2012 in San Luis Obispo County. This is a great place to try the wines of the Central Coast and sample food from the region. Prices range from $20 for chef demonstrations to full weekend passes for $150.

Oakland:
Sip, Stomp, and Play, September 29, 2012 at Urban Legend Cellars. Really, you get to stomp grapes, as well as taste wine and nosh. Tickets range from $30-$75.

Mendocino:
Parducci's 80th Anniversary Celebration -- Dinner in the Vineyard September 29, 2012 Mendocino County. $85 per person.