For anyone interested in the history of the California wine industry—and, let’s face it, who around here isn’t?—there’s a new book that can fill in many of the blanks. Sonoma Wine and the Buena Vista Story, by wine historian Charles Sullivan, chronicles the beginning of Sonoma Wine Country by focusing on Agoston Haraszthy, the Hungarian immigrant who founded the state’s first commercial winery, Buena Vista in Sonoma Valley. Haraszthy was a colorful character, and Sullivan relays both the facts and fictions surrounding his rise to prominence, subsequent financial fall and mysterious end. He continues the story through multiple sales, a phylloxera plague, Prohibition, the rise of California wine and its most recent acquisition by Boisset Family Estates in 2011. Under the direction of Jean-Charles Boissett, Buena Vista has undergone an extensive renovation and is again welcoming guests to its historic cellars and structures. So pour yourself a glass of history and enjoy the crazy tale as it unfolds in our own backyard.
Artistic Accessories
Former fine jewelry designer Chantel Garayalde and business partner Kim Brand have debuted a line of artisan handbags and accessories only available locally at Tamarind at The Barlow in Sebastopol. The line was inspired by handmade belt buckles, designed by Chantel’s aunt, in the artist community of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Each unique, solid brass and bronze piece has been reimagined and given a new life as an embellishment on Garayalde’s pieces, described as “vintage meets modern.” Pieces range from $300 to $1,200.
Source: www.garayaldestudio.com
Helping Fluffy and Fido
Pets aren’t just pets, they’re family. And when a family member needs help—potentially lifesaving help—you’re not willing to wait. Luckily, the new Red Cross Pet First Aid app puts vital information at your fingertips. Smartphone users can quickly access step-by-step instructions, videos and images for more than 25 common pet first aid and emergency situations, including treating wounds, controlling bleeding and care for breathing and cardiac emergencies. Additional topics include burns, car accidents, falls and cold- and heat-related situations. Other features let pet owners collect vital information (licenses, health information and veterinary contacts, for example), find nearby emergency veterinary care and locate pet-friendly businesses
