Archive for July, 2010

I’m back……

Friday, July 23rd, 2010

Ron Lanza working behind the bar at Wooden Valley Winery

Recently I came to the realization that I needed to spend a little more time in the tasting room. This decision was made for a few reasons but primarily because I missed spending time with our visitors and discussing wine on a one to one basis. The opportunity to step away from my administrative responsibilities for a short time each week has been like a vacation and it reminds me how lucky I am to spend my days doing what I love. Years ago, I spent many hours behind the tasting bar and I have great memories of visiting with friends of Wooden Valley hearing about their lives and families. I’m looking forward to making those same connections again.

After talking my idea over with our tasting room manager, Kerri, we both agreed that Friday afternoons would be my scheduled tasting room time. I’ve been working my Friday shifts since June 1st and I’m really enjoying it!! When Friday morning rolls around I find myself thinking TGIF, not because the week is ending, but because I get to spend my afternoon having fun.  I’m enjoying my hours in the tasting room so much I thought it would nice to do something a little extra while I’m there. For the month of August, every Friday between 1pm and 5pm, we’re going to incorporate barrel tasting, food and wine pairing or whatever else I come up with. Every week will be something different so if you have some spare time stop in and spend your afternoon at Wooden Valley with me. I’ll do my best to entertain you, answer any wine related questions or update you on what’s happening in Suisun Valley.
Salute!

A new chapter….

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

Nick Lanza at the tee

Nick Lanza at the plate

This week my second son Nick completed his thirteen year career in youth baseball which started with T-Ball and ended with American Legion. During those years, he has played an estimated 600 games all around California and as far away as New York and Georgia. Even though I’m sadden to see another one of my son’s youth baseball careers come to an end I take with me many fond memories and life long friendships with the parents and coaches I’ve met along the way (some which have even decided to join the wine club). Being a parent involve in youth activities you can’t help but meet scores of wonderful people along the way. My family’s social life is surrounded by people whom we’ve met through youth activities including your favorite Tasting Room Manager Kerri. Kerri’s husband John is pictured with Nick at his first      T-Ball game where he was unfortunately burdened by a broken leg. Nick will be attending Chico State this fall with hopes of extending his baseball career.

Good luck Nick!

What’s new at Wooden Valley…..

Thursday, July 1st, 2010

New BBQ in Wooden Valley's picnic area

Ron Lanza with Wooden Valley's new BBQ made by Chick Lanza

Last week I took my family on vacation. Before I left I mentioned, in passing, to my dad that I was thinking of incorporating a barbecue into Wooden Valley’s picnic grounds. He readily agreed with the idea; thinking that such an addition would make visitor’s time in our picnic grounds much more enjoyable. While I was away he got to work and in less than a week’s time he handcrafted a stainless steel barbecue with eight square feet of cooking surface; more than enough cooking space for a crowd. On my first day, back from vacation he pulled into the winery yard with the new barbecue in the back of his pick-up. I was both amazed and excited thinking of the enjoyment our customers would get out of his contribution to the new picnic area. Like most of the projects my dad produces, this one was made of surplus materials found around the ranch with only a few purchased items, which made me happy since his creation was crafted from 100% stainless steel.

The next time you’re looking for a special place to entertain a group of friends or family, reserve our picnic area and try out my dad’s new masterpiece!