Julie Powell, the main character in the newly-released movie,“Julie & Julia” shares a common fondness and respect for Julia Child, as does Bob Hurley, owner and chef of Hurley’s Restaurant in Yountville . Julie Powell may have never had the pleasure of meeting Julia Child, however, Hurley was honored to meet Julia and spend quality time with her discussing food, and of course, cooking. The rediscovered interest in this culinary superstar also has Bob Hurley reflecting upon his time with Julia and her impact on his successful culinary career.
Julia Child was the original master chef. As a celebrated cookbook author (Her cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, is number two earlier this week on Amazon ) and TV personality, she is known for making French cuisine accessible to the average homemaker in the states. Her sense of humor in the kitchen, and down-to-earth approach continues to make her an iconic, and much-loved, cooking personality. Hurley declares “She is a pioneer in the culinary world. And before I knew I wanted to be a chef, I can remember watching her on TV and later used her cookbooks as a starting reference when I did decided to become a chef.”
Before Julia’s death in 2004, she had spent time in Napa Valley. Even though, Hurley had spent time with Julia during a charity event in San Diego years previously, the two were able to reconnect in Napa while serving on the Board of Advisors for the Napa Valley Cooking School. It was at that time, that they collaborated on encouraging future chefs. Before Hurley’s opened his own restaurant, Julia had also dined at Napa Valley Grille when Hurley was the executive chef. Bob cites the experience “as one he will always remember.”
Similar to Julia, Hurley has a no-nonsense approach to cooking. They both believe in using solid ingredients, preparing and cooking food well, and all without any pretense. In a valley, where chefs evoke celebrity status, Julia and Bob are two chefs who shy away from the notoriety that often comes along with becoming an amazing chef. Even in her later years, Julia was fighting against having a rose named after her because she detested commercializing her name and legacy. It’s reported that she also wasn’t fond of Julie Powell’s blog which was the original inspiration for “Julie & Julia ” for the same reasons.
Even so, Julia’s legacy lives today on the silver screen inspiring a new generation of chefs, and in the heart of one the finest, yet unpretentious, chefs in Napa Valley.
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The hottest trend in the baking world has officially hit wine country.
Not only are tourist, swirling, sniffing and sipping wine but then they are also biting into decadent cupcakes while in wine country. To further the hedonistic approach these sinful cakes have become almost as popular as the wine. They are almost irresistible, so beware.
Santa Barbara Wine Country – Located in the sweet and adorable town of Los Olivos is Enjoy Cupcakes , located in Saarloos Wine Tasting room. Here they specialize in wine cupcakes. My favorite is the Cherry Vanilla Merlot, Chocolate Blackberry Syrah and Caramel Pinot.
Sonoma Wine Country – Sift, a cupcakery, is located in Cotati and focuses solely on cupcakes. There is a second location in Downtown Napa too. The Irish Car Bomb, Oh la la and Pink Champagne are mind-blowingly delicious.
Napa Wine Country – In Oxbow Marketplace , one of the newest attractions in Napa Valley, houses Karas Cupcakes . Popular in the Bay Area, Kara’s has recently opened in Napa and offers Fleur De Sel, my favorite filled cupcake ever.
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Check out the newest issue of Napa Valley Life Magazine! In this issue don't miss my article on Napa Valley Singles and Hot Summer Cocktails.
If you are a local pick up a copy around town, and if you want to be in the know about Napa and the Napa Valley Lifestyle, subscribe to the Napa Valley Life Magazine today.
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Life is a Cabernet! Yes – at Silver Oak Cellars, located in the heart of Napa Valley, it undoubtedly is.
One of the biggest parties in Wine Country is set to take place this Saturday at Silver Oak Cellars. Their highly-anticipated ‘Release Party’ is an event that brings thousands of wine enthusiasts from across the globe to relish tasting this world-renowned wine. There will be variety of vintages to taste, at different pricing levels. However, the highlight will be the release of Silver Oak’s 2005 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Release day at Silver Oak is a sensational event to see and been seen, and a must for industry insiders. Filled with live music, various demonstrations, a complimentary photo and your own Silver Oak wine glass, which can be replenished throughout the day, this event is a the epitome of a wine country celebration.
Cheers! - See you there...Autumn
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Solage is more than just a resort – it is a complete experience. This new, solar-powered, green-friendly hideaway is part of the Auberge Resorts, and it exceeds the expected level of luxury and high-end style associated with the name.
Situated in beautiful Calistoga , just below Mount St. Helena, Napa Valley’s dormant volcano, this modern California-chic establishment offers affordability and progressive opulence in the wine country. With 89 studio-design guestrooms to choose from, each rich with distinctly attractive style, every couple is certain to find true bliss at Solage.
This unique resort offers complimentary bike cruisers for all guests and staff to transport themselves around the resort. In line with their environmentally-conscious philosophy, Solage is also dedicated to serving organic and locally-grown produce.
They are pet-friendly and even welcome your pampered pooch with a water bowl, a plush dog bed, and organic doggie treats! Start your stay with a refreshing splash in their stunning 130-foot swimming pool, then slip into a relaxing yoga class or play a round of bocce ball. Later on, sip cocktails at their hip Solbar, savor the modern Bistro “Sol-ful dining,” and lounge around the cozy outdoor fire pits.
Solage is a strong promoter of health and wellness, so a trip to their impressive 20,000 square-foot Solage Spa is a must. Indulge together in the natural geothermal spring waters, treat yourself to a pampering with Kate Somerville’s skincare line, and pony up to the mud bar to relish in revitalizing volcanic goo. In an adventurous mood, try the “Solage Mudslide for Two,” their signature mudslide spa treatment, and relax completely with a couples massage afterwards.
Check out more at Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/x-18232-SF-Wine ... uxe-resort http://www.examiner.com/x18232-SF-Wine- ... l-Examiner
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