Another connection to home- Wine and Food with Chef John Ash

As much as I've loved my culinary classes, and all the cooking we've done, the 9 week introduction is over after exams. (The week looms in front of me…. Report on that to follow shortly). Beginning on Monday, we will be in Wine Studies, which is the initial reason I wanted to come to Greystone. The class will be an intensive course on all things related to wine, including food and wine pairings. The curriculum for the class was designed in part by John Ash, who was a favorite faculty member in the wine studies program here at Greystone in the 1990s. Chef Ash has an extensive background in food, wine, and California cuisine, and has left a legacy around the valley. I regret that I won't get to take a class from him myself, but I expect a full report on the wonderful class he will teach at In Good Taste on September 29. I wish I could be there! Luckily, I'll be following a similar class at the origin of those delicious recipes here in Napa.

Don't miss this opportunity to "travel" to Napa !

-Josie

The Road to Napa is Paved with Good Intentions

Beringer Vineyards

When your career and your passions intersect, there are many benefits. For one thing, you can combine business with pleasure for multi-purpose travel. (While some may look at this as a drawback, I look at it as an excuse to travel more, for business purposes, of course.) I visited Napa Valley last weekend. It was beautiful- more so than I expected, and the vineyards, wineries and landscape were breathtaking. I spent most of my free time eating (always good), and accomplished very little otherwise. I had grandiose plans to buy lovely trinkets for everyone at home, visit every winery on my list, go to the museums in St. Helena, the parks, all of the big restaurants, and the significant stores (like Dean and Deluca). Unfortunately, I only had three days in which to achieve these goals, in addition to the other things I still needed to do. However, I did manage to eat at a few good restaurants, visit a winery or two, and collect tiny souvenirs for friends. I brought back pictures, lavender from COPIA, menus, brochures, and lots of ideas. The good news is that I'll be back soon, and hopefully this time I'll do better at checking things off the To Do list.

-Josie