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Home / 2025 (Page 4)

10:34 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Socializing Your Dog Through Group Obedience

Gold Coast began with one man’s love of dogs and has since evolved into a world-class training and performance center, situated on a twenty-acre facility in Southern California. Since our start in 1991, we have trained, matched, and delivered thousands of companions to celebrities, champion athletes, Fortune 500 CEO’s, and some of the most dynamic police departments in the world.

goldcoastk9.com | Instagram gck9obedience

Learn more about Gold Coast goldcoastk9.com.

By Bailee Gates

Group obedience is a perfect and practical way to socialize your dog. While there are many ways to socialize your dog and expose them to different environments with new sights, sounds and smells, group classes are extremely efficient. When training in a group class, the handler can socialize the dog, build their confidence, learn new skills and relieve anxiety as the energy dissipates in a structured and safe manner. Group classes offer high-value exposure to ample amounts of distractions, ranging from adults and children, to dogs, toys, food, unfamiliar environments, and new sounds and smells. These distractions work on the dog’s impulse control so the dog and handler can learn together how to work through the many distractors and associations with a variation of structured obedience exercises. This training makes getting out and having real-life experiences much easier, as your dog will be prepared, controlled, desensitized and well-socialized.

In group obedience classes the dog and handler will learn proper handling of a dog in high distraction environments.

Beyond Obedience

This includes, but is not limited to, all obedience commands such as sit, down, heel and place on and off leash; these skills are always being elevated in a multitude of ways to improve on aspects including duration, distance, form, focus and distractions. For example, your dog may know how to stay in the down position, but what happens if you leave their side? Can you move farther from them? Can you go out of their sight? Can they handle the down position with heavy distractions? Can they stay in a sit instead of a down? What if there are dogs and people surrounding them? In a group class, you can work on all of these things to elevate and improve their skills, making them completely ready for real-world distractions that you and your dog may face.

Group obedience classes also include a multitude of different dog breeds.

It is beneficial to work on socialization and exposure to various temperaments and to minimize reactivity, as each breed has unique characteristics that you want your dog to be ready for (such as high or low energy), as well as different ages, sizes and personalities that it is important to expose your dogs to so they are prepared when they encounter them in the real world.

Tricks and obstacles are some of the more fun and exciting parts of group classes. Obstacles are great exercise for each dog and are fundamental to building confidence. In an obedient and structured manner, dogs learn to go through tunnels, walk over ramps (experiencing different textures builds confidence in walking over new grounds), jump over walls and much more.

Obstacles are a great way to create engagement between you and your dog to improve your relationship. You can improve focus and the bond with your dog by learning how to get through an obstacles course.

Attending group obedience regularly is the perfect way to set you and your dog’s day up for success from the start. Not only is it fun for you and your dog, but it gives them (and the handler!) a job to work at.

You’ll start them off with the focused mental stimulation and physical exercise they need, all while being in a comfortable and safe environment. It is an asset for physical and mental well-being for your pet. You will get to problem-solve and ask questions as needed. Group class is also a cost-effective and fun way to meet people and obtain community support from other handlers and owners that may have a dog in the same situation or learning the same things as you.

Bailee Gates is the director of obedience at Gold Coast K9. Bailee grew up working with her father in the dog business and has spent the past 10 years training dogs and attending seminars with the focus on obedience, behavior modification and reactivity. For questions or to schedule training please call or text 805.297.3767. Follow them on Instagram at gck9obedience and goldcoastk9.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:27 pm
Travel

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers luxury river cruises with various itineraries and excursions, plus attentive service.

AmaWaterways
800.626.0126 | amawaterways.com

CLICK HERE Learn more AmaWaterways

Provided by AmaWaterways

Photography by AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has ushered in a new era of river cruising with the launch of luxury journeys along Colombia’s legendary Magdalena River. As the first major river cruise line to explore this vibrant region, AmaWaterways invites travelers to discover the heart of Colombia with two specially curated 7-night itineraries—Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia—cruising between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

A New Chapter in River Cruising

The debut of AmaMagdalena marks a milestone both for the company and for Colombian tourism. Designed in collaboration with Colombian architects and craftspeople, the 60-passenger ship blends modern luxury with the spirit of the region. Staterooms range from 237 to 516 square feet and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, offering panoramic views of the ever-changing river landscape.

On board, guests can enjoy the spacious Luna Deck and its pool, a well-equipped fitness room, and two dining venues: a Main Restaurant serving regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favorites and an intimate al fresco specialty restaurant immersing guests in Colombian flavors. Every detail, from the handcrafted woodwork to the locally sourced ingredients, reflects a deep connection with Colombia’s culture and natural beauty.

Immersive Itineraries and Authentic Experiences

AmaWaterways’ Magdalena River cruises are designed to immerse guests in Colombia’s diverse heritage, music and natural wonders. Each day brings opportunities for discovery, with guided excursions revealing the country’s rich history and vibrant traditions.

  • An exclusive year-round event celebrating the world-famous Barranquilla Carnaval, offering a front-row seat to Colombia’s most colorful festival.
  • Heritage tours and exclusive jazz performances in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, where history and music come alive.
  • Birdwatching and nature excursions along the biodiverse riverbanks, home to thousands of bird species and unique wildlife.
  • Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City for an even deeper dive into South America’s treasures.

Life On Board: Enrichment and Relaxation

AmaMagdalena offers a warm, personalized atmosphere, with a dedicated Cruise Manager and attentive crew ensuring every guest feels at home. Onboard activities include tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and live performances by local musicians, celebrating the traditions that have earned Colombia its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms.” Wellness is also a focus, with group fitness classes led by a dedicated Wellness Host and ample opportunities to relax by the pool or enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the balcony of your stateroom.

Responsible Tourism and Community Engagement

AmaWaterways’ expansion into Colombia is built on a foundation of responsible tourism and close collaboration with local communities. The program aims to create meaningful economic opportunities for riverside towns while preserving the cultural and ecological integrity of the Magdalena River. Guests not only experience Colombia’s beauty but also contribute to the well-being of the people who call the river home.

Why Choose the Magdalena River?

The Magdalena River is a living thread through Colombia’s history, culture and biodiversity. From the historic streets of Cartagena to the stilt houses of Nueva Venecia and the lush mangroves of Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca, every stop offers a new perspective on the country’s treasures

As AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder and Chief Brand Ambassador Kristin Karst states, “The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination—it’s about creating lasting connections between cultures, celebrating the history and natural beauty of the Magdalena River, and offering new opportunities for local communities.”

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to river cruising, this is a rare opportunity to experience Colombia’s rhythms, flavors and landscapes in comfort and style. Embrace the magic of Colombia and be among the first to cruise this extraordinary river with AmaWaterways.

Visit AmaWaterways.com/Colombia to reserve your Magdalena River cruise today.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:06 am
Finance

Montecito Bank & Trust

Montecito Bank & Trust’s Vice-President/Senior Portfolio Manager Albert Chu shares tips about smart year-end financial planning.

Albert Chu
CFA®, CAIA®, VP / Senior Portfolio Manager
805-979-4506 | achu@montecito.bank

CLICK HERE Learn more about Montecito Bank & Trust

Article by Albert Chu

Q: Why is year-end financial planning important?

A: While it’s always a good idea to periodically review your finances, and progress towards your goals, there are certain things that do have year-end deadlines. If you’re a participant in your employer’s 401k plan, you’ll want to review and maximize your contributions or employer match for 2025. From a tax perspective, you’ll want to look at harvesting losses that may offset any capital gains and other situations like a RMD (Required Minimum Distribution) from your retirement accounts. The holiday season is also a great time to think about others so review any charitable donations and any gifts you’ll want to give to individuals to maximize your annual exclusions. There are also mundane things that you’ll want to review to not leave any money on the table. For example, if you have a Health FSA (Flexible Spending Account), you’ll want to ensure you use all funds that can’t be carried over into 2026.

Q: What are the main considerations when undertaking year-end financial planning?

A: As mentioned, there are items in your financial plan that need to be addressed each calendar year. In addition to these items, you’ll need to consider updating your financial plan for upcoming life events. These can be life events like having a child, starting a new venture or purchasing a second home closer to grandchildren that impact your finances. You also want to take some time and review your progress towards your current goals.

Q: What advice can you offer for those who may be having trouble getting started?

A: You don’t need to do everything in one day; dividing your checklist into manageable pieces will help you from feeling overwhelmed.

Q: Do you recommend meeting in person or is a phone conversation sufficient?

A: An initial phone conversation is a great way to learn more about an individual’s situation. This will allow your financial advisor to research and prepare strategies that are customized to your needs. An in-person or Zoom meeting is important afterward to share ideas and recalibrate the strategy if necessary.

Q: What is the anticipated outcome of assessing finances at the end of the year?

A: With a year-end review you hope to optimize your tax strategy for the current year and set yourself up for the upcoming year. Reviewing your budget and expenses should provide some insight on opportunities to increase savings or reallocate resources. It also provides a set timeframe to check your progress on your long-term goals and adjust course if necessary for the coming year.

Q: When is the best time to perform this review—before the holidays or in November/December?

A: The best time to perform the review is sooner vs. later. The holidays can be a time filled with events, and it can be difficult to carve out time. Also, as you get closer to year-end, you may find more people rushing to get their financial check list complete as well.

Q: Any other general advice for readers regarding year-end financial planning?

A: With the new Tax Bill, you’re more likely this year to itemize deductions instead of taking the standard deduction, making it more important to keep good records of deductible items.

Q: What do you enjoy most about assisting clients with this task?

A: I enjoy working with clients and demystifying the financial planning process. It’s rewarding knowing that you can play a part in someone’s financial journey and seeing them reach personal milestones like retirement.

Q: What is challenging?

A: The biggest challenge is balancing the need to have a structured financial plan while building in the flexibility to adjust as life changes/surprises arise.

Albert Chu has over 25 years of investment management experience serving clients in private banking, prominent RIAs and a multifamily office. Albert works with clients to develop a goals-based approach to wealth management that incorporates both traditional and alternative investments. He holds both the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst) designations.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:52 pm
Finance

The Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley

The Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley provides financial counsel and investment management to individuals and their families, professionals, business owners, and others. Providing advice on specific financial needs to creating individualized plans that focus both sides of the balance sheet and every aspect of financial decision-making toward specified goals and objectives. We also provide access to Cash Management and Lending Solutions.

100 N. Westlake Blvd. Suite 200 Westlake Village, CA 91362
(805) 494-0236| morganstanley.com

CLICK HERE Learn more about The Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley

Article by Laura Marie Raulinaitis

Financial planning is not just about numbers—it’s about people and priorities. Families, business owners and individuals all face decisions that shape their futures: saving for retirement, caring for loved ones or creating a legacy. Without a clear plan, those decisions can feel overwhelming. With preparation, they provide clarity and confidence.

The Power of Collaboration

Financial lives are complex. Investments intersect with taxes, estate planning, insurance and family dynamics. That’s why collaboration matters. When CPAs, attorneys and advisors work together, clients feel supported and better equipped to make lasting decisions.

Balance Over Certainty

Markets, tax laws and personal circumstances constantly evolve. The best financial plans are flexible, balancing growth potential with risk awareness. While no strategy guarantees certainty, a well-prepared plan can provide resilience in the face of change.

Every Plan Tells a Story

Behind every financial strategy is a personal story: parents saving for education, couples preparing for retirement or entrepreneurs building for the next generation. Numbers alone can’t capture what matters most—values, priorities and emotions are just as important.

Avoiding the Trap of Being Too Conservative

While careful stewardship is essential, being overly conservative can carry risks of its own. This is especially relevant for women. On average, women earn less than men over the course of their careers, live longer and often take on caregiving responsibilities that interrupt earning years. Added together, these realities mean women may face greater financial headwinds.

Avoiding the Trap of Being Too Conservative

While careful stewardship is essential, being overly conservative can carry risks of its own. This is especially relevant for women. On average, women earn less than men over the course of their careers, live longer and often take on caregiving responsibilities that interrupt earning years. Added together, these realities mean women may face greater financial headwinds.

To compound the challenge, studies show women tend to be more conservative investors than men. While caution can protect against volatility, it can also limit growth potential. The result: Women not only make less money during their lifetimes, but often make less on their money as well.

That’s why setting clear goals and maintaining accountability are so important. A strong financial plan doesn’t just help protect against downside risks—it gives your money the chance to grow in alignment with your future needs.

The Value of Relationships

Financial planning doesn’t have to be a solo responsibility. The most successful outcomes happen with trusted relationships who listen, run through scenarios and challenge assumptions. Advisory relationships also create accountability—ensuring goals remain clear, plans stay on track and strategies adapt to life’s changes.

A Stewardship Mindset

Wealth is more than a measure of success. Managed thoughtfully, it becomes a tool for opportunity, stability and legacy. Transparency, responsibility and respect for the trust clients place in advisors form the foundation of effective stewardship.

The Takeaway

Life’s most important financial decisions rarely come with perfect timing. But with a thoughtful plan, families and individuals can move forward with greater confidence.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please visit us at http://www.morganstanleyindividual.com or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters.

Laura Marie Raulinaitis is a Financial Advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Westlake Village, CA. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for all investors as the appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC, or its affiliates.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CRC 4766177 08/25

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:32 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Ilene’s Boutique

Find boutique clothing for every taste, style, and personality. Ilene has a flair for making you feel fabulous!

1145 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village, CA 91362
805.373.6633 | Instagram shopilensboutique
Store Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6 pm

CLICK HERE: Follow Ilene's Boutique on Instagram

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography by Hannah Gross

That perfect pair of jeans, favorite sweater, or fashionable blazer that pulls it all together—wearing clothes that make you look good ensures you feel great too. Finding those special pieces to complement and complete your unique style is the forte of the style mavens at Ilene’s Boutique in Westlake Village, headed by Owner Ilene Stern.

“We want to make you feel magical because when you look good, you feel good,” says Ilene, who leads a team of dedicated stylists specializing in elevating customers’ style for more than 34 years and counting! From fancy and formal to business and casual wear—even pajamas—Ilene’s Boutique offers Fashion finds to fit any style.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:43 pm
Publisher Letters

Publishers Letter

Ben Malkin, Publisher

Our theme this month is Style. In our Conejo Valley and Santa Rosa Valley communities, most of our attention regarding “style” is on our homes. While almost everyone dresses quite well, we are not a hyper-fashionista-focused place like Paris, New York, or even Los Angeles. The distance between us and La La Land may not be far, but culturally, we are pretty far apart. The “style” that concerns us the most is what takes place in our homes, both inside and outside.

If I look back on what attracted Robin and me to want to live in the Conejo Valley when we moved here 20 years ago, it was the natural beauty that still surrounds us and the way our cities and neighborhoods have been built out without creating too much congestion and pollution so common to much of Southern California. I lived in South Orange County for many years. When I moved there, it was similar to the Conejo Valley—but no longer. I am happy to be here.

Our homes are often a reflection of the community’s overall zeitgeist. Not necessarily the particular type of décor, outdoor landscape, or hardscape, but simply the care and love that have gone into it. If we love the environment and the community in which we live, it makes it easy and enjoyable to invest and continually improve the personal space in which we live: our home.

Cat in a Hammock, Holly Viane Interiors, The Sofa Guy and State Restoration take us on a style tour of new ideas and opportunities for your home. At Conejo Valley Lifestyle we have also expanded our social media presence on Facebook and Instagram. There you can find articles from Aldik Home, Milben Construction, First Choice Painting and the beautiful homes represented by the amazing Rosemary Alliso.

We also thought it would be nice for you to discover Ilene’s Boutique for some of the most beautiful styles in women’s clothing. Ilene has been tucked away in North Ranch for “only” 34 years. What took you so long to find her?

8:32 pm
Home • Design

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design offers a wide selection of gas fireplaces, such as See Through Gas Fireplaces, Left,  Right, or Double Corner Fireplaces, Linear, Modern, Contemporary, Custom design, Vent Free, Traditional, or many others.

104 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 9136
(805) 496-6660 | thousandoaksfireside.com

CLICK HERE Learn more about Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

Provided

With our enviable weather, barbecue season lasts the year round.  There’s no better way to celebrate the outdoors than by firing up the grill. If you are looking to elevate your grilling game, look no further than the premium outdoor cooking equipment from Twin Eagles and Delta Heat. These exceptional brands are made here in Southern California and are available at Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design…your outdoor gatherings are about to get a major upgrade

Twin Eagles: Known for its striking aesthetic and high-quality craftsmanship, this high-end equipment is designed with the serious griller in mind. These grills embody the perfect fusion of performance and style. Each unit is constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring it withstands the test of time while delivering top-notch grilling results. The powerful infrared burner heats up quickly and evenly, allowing you to achieve those coveted grill marks on your chops, steaks and burgers.

Now, let’s turn our attention to Delta Heat… a Twin Eagles product and another fantastic option that Thousand Oaks Fireside offers. Crafted with the same passion for quality, what is remarkable about this equipment is its commitment to affordability without sacrificing performance. These grills provide powerful cooking capabilities featuring heavy-duty stainless steel construction, an impressive BTU rating, and a unique grilling surface that ensures superior heat retention. You can expect your food to come off the grill perfectly cooked every time

The sleek design of the Delta Heat line makes it a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. Each grill comes equipped with LED-lit control knobs and halogen interior lighting for nighttime grilling sessions, a feature that adds not just practicality, but also a touch of modern elegance to your backyard. The side burners are a perfect companion for whipping up sauces or sautéing veggies while the main course is grilling away.

Both Twin Eagles and Delta Heat equipment represent the pinnacle of quality in outdoor cooking. When shopping at Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design, you’re not just purchasing a barbecue, you’re investing in an experience that brings family and friends together. The knowledgeable staff will help guide you through the selection and design process, ensuring you find the equipment that best suits your cooking style and outdoor entertaining needs.

Whether you are a grilling pro or novice, a visit to Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design to see the Twin Eagles and Delta Heat line will be your first step in transforming your outdoor grilling experience. Get ready to gather around the grill and share laughter, stories and food that will transform into delicious memories to last a lifetime.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:56 pm
Home • Design

Cat in a Hammock

Outdoor Spaces Are More Than Just Landscape. Bespoke outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle, invite connection, and bring everyday peace home. Serving Thousand Oaks and the surrounding area

275 East Hillcrest Dr. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 263-4200 | catinahammock.com

CLICK HERE: Learn About Cat In a Hammock

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Designing beautiful spaces that reflect the unique style and function of every family inspires Kristina Jones, who founded Cat in a Hammock, to do just that.

Kristina’s full-service design and construction firm has the expertise to bring clients’ visions to life, from the initial glimmer of an idea to the final touches of the completed project.

“I especially love when clients share how their new backyard has changed their everyday life. It’s no longer just a yard—it’s a sanctuary, a gathering place, an extension of their home. That’s deeply rewarding,” shares Kristina, noting that creating the ideal space starts with inspiration.

“I always recommend that clients explore Pinterest, Houzz or even pull pages from magazines. It costs nothing to start dreaming. Don’t worry about whether it fits your space or your budget just yet—this is your time to gather visual ideas that stir something in you. Think of it as building a mood board for your lifestyle: textures, colors, garden moments, architectural elements. Give yourself the freedom to explore without editing. That’s where the magic begins,” says Kristina, who finds her own source of inspiration in natural settings.

“Botanical gardens have always been a wellspring of inspiration for me. Whether it’s Lotusland, Descanso Gardens or a tucked-away estate abroad, I make it a point to observe how nature is framed, layered and allowed to speak,” she says, adding, “I recently visited Casa del Herrero in Montecito to refill my creative well. I love blending classical and modern influences—creating spaces that feel rooted in tradition, yet fresh and relevant.”

Exploring the Process

Meeting with clients to discuss their goals enables Cat in a Hammock to formulate a well-designed plan.

“Our consultations are deeply personal and tailored to each family,” explains Kristina. “We begin by exploring lifestyle—how our clients live, entertain, relax and connect at home. Are there children or pets? Do they host large gatherings or prefer an intimate retreat? This discovery shapes the functionality of the space before we even touch the design.”

The next step involves the artistic elements: “We then begin layering in aesthetics—materials, mood and color palettes that speak to the home’s architecture and the client’s taste. Many clients share inspiration boards they’ve curated over time, and it becomes a collaborative design conversation,” shares Kristina. Once a realistic budget is set—”we help prioritize features, select premium materials strategically, and craft a plan that reflects value and intention”—the design phase begins, transforming vision into detailed 3D renderings.

“We manage every detail in-house: engineering, permitting, materials, project management and of course, the build itself. It’s a full-service experience with a single point of contact from concept to completion,” she says, noting her satisfaction with a job well done.

“Each phase brings its own joy. The design process is imaginative and intimate, the build phase is tangible and gratifying, and the final reveal is where it all comes full circle.”

Kristina invites homeowners to explore how Cat in a Hammock can add style and elegance to enhance their home and lifestyle.

“We’re more than a design-build firm—we’re storytellers of outdoor living. We care deeply about our clients’ experience, and we’re here to create timeless, soulful spaces that elevate how they live,” says Kristina. “Beauty matters, but it’s how a space makes you feel—and how it supports the way you live—that makes it meaningful.”

Project Portfolio

Incorporating new landscaping, lighting and grass transformed this space, featuring a modern Spanish-style cabana, outdoor fireplace, and kitchen set against white stucco and arched architecture, into a year-round retreat. The design phase took about a month, followed by permitting and HOA approval; the project was completed in just under 3 months. Redesigning the pool with new glass tile and water features and adding a custom fire feature, two large pergolas and an arbor, plus a dining space to accommodate a large extended family, reimagined a tired and dated backyard. The result was so successful, they hosted a family wedding just weeks after completion!

 

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:33 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography by Robin Chesler

The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business Expo and Networking Mixer at the Palm Garden Hotel, featuring local businesses, service organizations, and restaurants. There were 58 very busy exhibitors presenting their wares and services to the Conejo Valley community.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

12:19 am
Food • Beverage Travel

By Ben Malkin

Photography by Ben Malkin and Left Coast Photography

While Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley are next-door neighbors in the heart of premium California wine country, a visit and wine tasting tour shows contrasting styles, experiences, and wines to enjoy.

Napa wineries are easily accessible. From the south to the north, most of the wineries are located on a grid bordered by Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. Your visit to Sonoma Valley is more of an adventure that requires the use of Google Maps, and better yet, a good old-fashioned printed Sonoma Valley winery map. For Robin’s annual December birthday vacation, we dove into the “adventure” of a visit to Sonoma Valley.

Sonoma Valley is much more laid back than Napa Valley—$1,000/night rooms and acres of resort facilities are not part of the culture. For me, that’s a good thing. Michelin star or wannabe star restaurants and $400 dinners for two are for Napa, not Sonoma.

The advantage of a late December visit is less traffic and reduced crowds at the wineries. These days it is always best to schedule appointments for everything from a tasting to a complete wine and food pairing at some wineries. With the generous help of Amy Patrick at Sonoma County Vintners, we scheduled visits to wineries in the Russian River Valley up north to the Alexander Valley, enjoying beautiful road trips from Sonoma to Healdsburg to Santa Rosa. We visited the heart of their Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel country.

Next, some advice on quality vs. quantity: Schedule no more than three wineries a day, and if lunch is included, perhaps just two. We enjoyed incredible food and wine pairings at St. Francis Winery and Ram’s Gate Winery. Each provided a unique experience that we will always treasure. You can also choose to stay out of your car for an afternoon and visit the tasting rooms on the square in Sonoma.

We kicked things off at Ram’s Gate Winery, located at the entrance to Sonoma Valley near the famous Sonoma Raceway. Their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are classically Russian River and Carneros. The wine and food pairing was perfect and so extensive that we skipped dinner that evening.

One of our favorite wineries is Chateau St. Jean. We have been members for many years. Their Cinq Cepage Bordeaux-style blend is very special, as is their Russian River Pinot Noir. Foley Family Wines recently bought them. That meant when we visited Chalk Hill Estate Winery (www.chalkhill.com) later in the week (perhaps the best Chardonnay in Sonoma County), we were members. So corporate ownership is not always something to bemoan. The Foley-owned wineries have retained and possibly improved their quality.

Another exceptional experience was a visit to Ledson Winery. They are family-owned and managed, and very proud of it. The beautiful building and grounds are chock-a-block full of family history. They offer a wide choice of varietals and award-winning wines. You can spend hours just shopping in their Marketplace.

The next day, we enjoyed another food and wine pairing at St. Francis Winery and Vineyard, featuring a wonderful parade of small bites and premium, 90+ scoring Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. You can find their wine at the grocery store, but to truly experience the best, you need to visit.

We headed north to Chalk Hill Estate Winery. It was a very adventurous drive, but well worth it when we finally got there. We found Chardonnay to die for (their “flagship varietal) and sublime Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Visit or join for 90+ showstoppers. We spent two or more hours tasting the wine and gazing at the vineyards.

The goal of our trip was to enjoy great wine, so there’s no restaurant reviews. On the other hand, our wine and food pairings were the most memorable highlight of our trip. Maybe next time we’ll visit Paso Robles wine country for more great wine, lots of driving, and exploring. Cheers!!

Our final experience was far to the north at Zialena Winery. Family-owned and nurtured by Mark Mazzoni, the wine-making tradition here goes back to 1931 and the culture of workers at Italian Swiss Colony saving money to buy their land. The wine is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and their own Zinfandel Mazzoni clone; very, very Alexander Valley. Their Cabernet and Zinfandel from the Alexander Valley are some of my favorites, well-structured and graceful.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved