JUSTIN’S FAVES
WINE
The Hoxley family, owners of Ghost Block, are amazing people. They’ve been on the land for generations – just true farmers. When you visit them you feel like family. And let’s not forget to talk about the amazing Cabernet Sauvignon they produce! One of my favorites, hands down.
This Walla Walla Washington winery creates exceptional wine and experiences. Their winemaker, Chris Figgins, is one of the most amazing farmers and just finished a cave project on-site. These wines are made in the vineyards with delicious fruit you won’t find anywhere else – a must stop and buy!
These wines from the Spring Mountain District in Napa Valley are so well made, they truly capture the Terroir of this AVA. Wine maker Aaron Pott is really working his magic on the mountain.
The wines are crafted from amazing vineyards in Napa Valley under the watchful eye of Philippe Melka, one of worlds best winemakers.
gravity-flow and gravity-finish subterranean winery, the Cave, is a remarkable feat of engineering and their wines are exceptional.
The wines of Spring
Mountain District
one of the smallest AVA's in Napa Valley, it is here you will find many of the most sought after mountain wines.
DINNING
Casa Mia
This neighborhood Italian restaurant tucked into the McDowell mountains is an absolute gem. Luka, the owner, has put his Italian influence into some of the best cuisine in all of Arizona. Be sure to order the Strasanati! It’s divine!
Uptown Barrel Room
American cuisine with the best wine selection in all of the Pacific Northwest. Duane and Jersey have built this restaurant’s reputation on solid home-cooked food paired with the best of wines from Napa to Walla Walla. Arrive ready to feast.
brasswood
On the edge of St. Helena sits Brasswood Restaurant and Winery. A local joint with a (sort of) secret menu, be sure to order the unlisted local favorite, pulled mozzarella. The rest of the food is fantastic and ready to be paired with a good selection of wines from local, small lot vineyards, including their own.
TRAVEL
Australia
The diversity in climate and terrain in the land down under makes it truly unique, and one of my favorite places on earth. If you love wine, this is your place! The unique regions boast their own amazing wines and beautiful cellar doors, and you’ll be hosted by the nicest people on the planet.
Portugal
Porto and the Duarro River are magical. My best recommendation is to take a boat ride up the river through the Duarro Valley, where some of the most amazing wines are made – not to mention its namesake, port!
Sunriver, Oregon
This is my escape from the pace of city living and traveling. In the winter there’s skiing and snowmobiling on Mt. Bachelor, while summers are for floating down the Deschutes River, concerts in Bend, golfing, and outdoor activities. Don’t miss out on underrated Central Oregon!