You'll see more wine tasting rooms in San Diego in the future

By Janene Roberts

Recently, an ordinance was passed through the San Diego County that will allow small, boutique wineries to open tasting rooms here. Although, some opponents are filing a lawsuit against it, for now the ordinance stands as a green light for more small wineries to open shop. Yesterday, I coordinated a piece with KFMB-TV's meteorologist Shawn Styles and the wineries Cordiano and Orfila. Watch the segment here. http://www.cbs8.com/Global/story.asp?S=13267715

There's still time to enjoy a Thornton Winery Champage Jazz concert.

On Sunday, October 10, The Rippingtons will play with a special guest and on Saturday, October 16, Fourplay will be featured with a special guest. In September, I felt honored to experience David Benoit and his guest Jake Shimabukruo. While Jake played unbelievable performances of pop hits on his ukulele and told us how he had been asked to perform for the Queen of England with Bette Midler, I could feel the passion he emitted while he played. One stand out was his performance of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snPQ1z5FoqQ&feature=related

Listening and enjoying a wine-paired three course meal of Watercress and Arugula Salad, Braised Short Ribs and Chocolate Bombe reminded me of what a gift we have in our local wineries. Thank you Thornton for a very memorable experience.

There's also a little time left to experience a grape stomp before the 2010 harvest season ends. Lorimar Winery in Temecula is having their grape stomp this Saturday, October 9. For more information visit http://www.lorimarwinery.com. Purchase tickets by calling the winery at 951-240-5177.

A couple of weekends ago I had the privilege of attending Ponte Winery's grape stomp and I'm already marking my calendar for next year. There was a huge assortment of food and wine, grape stomping, live music and dance lessons.