Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival - This Weekend!!

• Posted On: May 20, 2013 3:49 PM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Fun with Kids in SLO County, Outdoor Fun

May 25 & 26 | Downtown Arroyo Grande
Saturday, May 25 | 9am - 6 pm
Sunday, May 26 | 9am - 5pm

The Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival named the place to be on Memorial Weekend by Sunset Magazine!

As one of California's largest festivals and premiere festival on the Central Coast this family-style event brings together thousands of visitors and residents to enjoy activities and entertainment, the Strawberry Stampede, hundreds of art, craft and display booths, ethnic foods, and of course, scrumptious strawberry treats of all kinds in shortcakes, funnel cakes, milkshakes, ice cream and by the box!

The wonderful May weather and ambiance of the historic downtown village also add to the festivals merriment.

Thousands of visitors from all our western states attend or participate in the festival. If you plan on attending, we recommend making your lodging reservations at least six months in advance. Admission is free but bring money for food, drink and children's game booths.

Features include Strawberry Stampede walk/run, Strawberry Pancake Breakfast, Strawberry Shortcake & T-shirt booths, Strawberry Prince & Princess Contest, Strawberry Blonde Contest, Strawberry Cook-Off Contest, Kiddie Carnival, Arts & Crafts Show, and Entertainment including Ethnic, Folk, Blues, Jazz, Contemporary & Rock 'n Roll music!


Follow us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/agstrawberryfestival

 

Atascadero, California Celebrates Wine Month in June

• Posted On: May 17, 2013 11:13 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Where to Grab a Glass of Wine in SLO County, Wine & Dine in SLO County

Atascadero, California Celebrates Wine Month in June

Enjoy Special Events, Hotel Packages and Great Deals on Wine, Food, Golf and Spa Experiences, Plus Special Opportunities to Win a Weekend Wine Festival Getaway

Located in the heart of California's Central Coast wine region midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Atascadero is home to a diverse blend of colorful history, vineyards and a thriving downtown that retains its small town charm. Throughout the month of June, Atascadero will celebrate Wine Month with special events, customized hotel packages and discounts on wine, food, spa, golf and outdoor activities. For more information, visit www.visitatascadero.com.
 

- Wine Month Events -

Mayors Winemaker Dinner
June 21, 2013
Lake Pavilion
Held at the beautiful Pavilion on the lake, guests will partake in one hour of wine tasting followed by a four-course, winemaker dinner and silent and live auctions. For tickets, call (805) 470-3478 or visit www.atascaderowinefestival.org/winemaker-dinner.
 
3^rd Annual Lakeside Wine Festival Benefit Golf Tournament
June 22, 2013
Chalk Mountain Golf Course
This event will be held at the beautiful Chalk Mountain Golf Course, known for its well-established and beautifully maintained, hilly course. Lots of fabulous prizes are available including new vehicles for anyone hitting a "hole in one" on hole #3 or #5!  To purchase ticket, call (805) 466-8848 or visit www.atascaderowinefestival.org/golf-tournament.
 
Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival
June 22, 2013
Atascadero Lake Park
This celebration of world-class wines, food and artistic talents features over 80 San Luis Obispo County wineries, food pairings, fine art, live music and entertainment. To purchase tickets, visit www.atascaderowinefestival.org.
 
Passport to the Creston Wine Trail
June 29-30, 2013
Creston Wine Trail
This celebration of wine, food and music celebrates the members of the Creston Wine Trail (August Ridge, B&E Vineyard, Chateau Margene, Olivas de Oro, Shadow Run, Stanger Vineyards and The Loading Chute) who will pour current releases, and select library wines.  To purchase tickets, call (805) 238-2321.
 

-Hotel Packages and Discounts-
 

All hotel guests who mention "Atascadero Wine Month" at the time of booking will receive a bottle of wine upon arrival.

 

Best Western PLUS Colony Inn Packages - this award winning hotel hosts 75 well-appointed rooms, outdoor seasonal pool, spa, fully appointed fitness center and conference facility. 

• Atascadero Wine Month Special - During "Atascadero Wine Month," stay two-nights, get the third night 50% off, a complimentary bottle of wine, wine tasting vouchers, a special welcome gift, full breakfast and area wine tasting map. Call (805) 466-4449 to reserve and ask for rate code "WINEME." Discount night not valid on Friday or Saturday lodging. Offer valid June 1 through July 1, 2013. One per customer. No cash value. Some restrictions may apply. Reservations based upon availability.

The Carlton Hotel Packages - Originally built in 1929, the historic Carlton Hotel features 52 richly appointed rooms and suites with spectacular views of rolling hills, 400 thread-count linens and down comforters, marble baths, and separate showers, high speed internet access and luxurious spa robes. 

• Atascadero Wine Month Special - In honor of "Atascadero Wine Month" guests receive a 10% discount on a two night stay during the month of June. Purchase a discounted Wine Passport for $25 ($10 savings) and enjoy tastings from 15 different wineries for 90 days. Call (805) 461-5100 to reserve Reservation Code: ATAS. Based on availability.
• Zip Line Canopy Tour Special - Guests seeking adventure will save $10 off any regular zip line canopy tour as well as a complimentary wine tasting for two at Ancient Peaks Winery. See any guest associate at the hotel for more information, or call (805) 461-5100 to make reservations.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Packages - Tranquil and quiet, guests will discover a warm wine country ambiance with modern amenities and comforts. Enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning along with an outdoor pool, spa, 24-hour fitness room and free wifi. 

• Atascadero Wine Month Special - During June, stay two consecutive nights and get a third night free. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine plus two wine tasting vouchers at Ancient Peaks Winery. For reservations, call (805) 462-0200 and ask for rate code "Wine Month." Some restrictions may apply. Reservations based upon availability. Must book at least seven days in advance.
• Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival Weekend - To celebrate the Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival guests will receive discounted deluxe hotel accommodations, discounted tickets to the Wine Festival (special price of $35/$10 off regular price), complimentary shuttle to/from the festival along with a local beer and wine reception Saturday evening. Call (805) 462-0200 to reserve and ask for rate code "Atascadero Wine Month."
• Zip & Sip Experience - For the adventure seekers, this package includes one night deluxe accommodations, zip line tickets and a complimentary wine tasting for two at onsite Ancient Peaks Winery. Call (800) 462-0200 to reserve and ask for the "Zip & Sip Experience."

Olivas de Oro Olive Company Guest House Packages - Experience the beauty of this century-old olive orchard and the charm of the 3-bedroom guest house nestled among olive trees with orchard and vineyard views. Visit the tasting room to sample the award winning extra virgin and flavored olive oils, vinegars, and specialty farm products or enjoy a picnic under the olive trees. 

• Atascadero Wine Month Special - Stay two nights and get the third night free. Call (805) 227-4223 to make reservations.

-Culinary and Wine Discounts -

Numerous wineries, olive oil tasting rooms and restaurants are offering special discounts for those mentioning Atascadero Wine Month.  Click here for additional discounts.

Cass Vineyards and Winery: Located in the rolling, oak-studded hills between Paso Robles and Creston, the tasting room at Cass Winery offers picnic fare and chef prepared wine and food pairings daily at the Cass Café. Atascadero Wine Month Special- Save $10 off lunch with a purchase of a bottle of wine or $20 off the purchase of two lunches and two bottles of wine. 7350 Linne Road, Paso Robles, CA. (805)239-1730.
 
Olivas de Oro Olive Company - Visit the beautiful, century old olive orchards and see how the award-winning olive oils are grown. Inside the tasting room, guests can sample extra virgin and flavored olive oils, vinegars, and specialty farm products. Atascadero Wine Month Special - Save 10% off the Extra Virgin Olive Oils. 4625 La Panza Road, Creston, CA (805) 227-4223. 
 
The Barrel Room - Nestled in the downtown Historic Colony District, the Barrel Room is a cozy retreat for wine lovers. Enjoy the finest local wines by the glass or by the bottle. Atascadero Wine Month Special -2-for-1 wine tastings during the month of June and 25% off a bottle of Tarrica Wine. 5989 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA. (805) 462-9000.
 
Haven Wine Bistro - Discover some of the best local wines, a fabulous menu and live music on the outdoor patio. Atascadero Wine Month Special - receive a 20% discount off the Farmer's Local Salad and a choice of any wine by the glass (only $22 per person after discount). 6155 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA. (805) 461-WINE (9463).
 

-Golf and Spa Discounts-
 

VINO+THERAPY Studio - Experience the healing and rejuvenating properties of wine with a variety of soothing spa treatments.  Atascadero Wine Month Special - Enjoy a glass of local wine, Signature Wine Foot Soak & Champagne Sugar Scrub Foot Treatment along with an Aromatherapy Spa Sommelier BAR Setup and a choice of a 30-Minute Vino Massage or Coco-Cab Facial.  As an added bonus, guests will also receive wine tasting at The Barrel Room.  Package price is only $59 per person. 5990 Entrada, Atascadero, CA. (805) 466-VINO.
 
The Spa Central Coast - Escape the pressures of life and enter a state of well being with The Spa Central Coast. Atascadero Wine Month Special - Couples will receive 35% discount off a one-hour couples massage, a Mediterranean foot soak and a session in the private steam room. Package price is only $210 per couple (savings of $115) during the month of June. 6105 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA. (805) 464-0129.

Chalk Mountain Golf Course - This well-established and beautifully maintained course boasts the most comfortable and easy-going atmosphere of the three county courses. Atascadero Wine Month Special - women play for free after 10 am throughout the month of June. 10000 El Bordo Avenue, Atascadero, CA. (805) 466-8848.

- Enter to Win -
 

Enter to win lots of fantastic giveaways such as a 3-night getaway package which includes a behind the scenes culinary adventure, 3-night deluxe accommodations at the Historic Carlton Hotel along with tickets to the wine festival events, a zip lining adventure and a tour of Hearst Castle!  There are also weekly giveaways happening throughout May and June for prizes such as Hearst Castle tickets and zip lining tickets to Margarita Adventures. www.facebook.com/VisitAtascadero

 

Nothing Sweeter! Feast at the Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival

• Posted On: May 17, 2013 10:57 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Fun with Kids in SLO County, Where to Stay in SLO County

Nothing Sweeter! Feast at the Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival

There are always plenty of festivities to attend on Memorial Day weekend, but folks in the know opt to be in the historic Village of Arroyo Grande, just down the road from Pismo Beach, for the annual Strawberry Festival. Thousands of visitors make their way to Pismo Beach's neighboring town to participate in or simply attend this merry festival. 

A Berrylicious Weekend in Pismo Beach

Chocolate-covered strawberry skewer anyone? Yes, please! If you were looking for an excuse to indulge in one of the finest fruits, look no further. Held on May 25 and 26, the Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival is one of California's largest festivals, a family-style event that draws in locals and visitors alike. 2013 marks the 30^th year for this special event - and the berry harvest is like no other!

Over 60 food booths lined Olohan Alley last year, so you can easily enjoy three square meals - including the Strawberry Pancake Breakfast - but don't neglect to leave plenty of room for delectable, must-taste strawberry delicacies, from shortcakes to funnel cakes, milkshakes to berries by the box.

Berry Sweet Treats for Kids and Adults

From jugglers to rock climbing towers, rides to bouncy houses, the Strawberry Festival's Kiddie Carnival gives young attendees plenty of rides and games to keep them happy from morning to evening. And every festival goer will find tunes to suit their tastes with live entertainment including a mix of ethnic, folk, blues, jazz, and contemporary music, along with some good old rock ‘n' roll.

There is no shortage of every kind of strawberry at the festival, from real to artistic - and, as a juried show, every vendor has earned its place among the masses. Don't miss the Strawberry Cook-Off Contest, the Arts & Crafts Show, and the Strawberry Shortcake and T-shirt booths. And, of course, what would a strawberry festival be without a Strawberry Blonde Contest and a Strawberry Prince & Princess Contest?

Run for Your Strawberries

You expect wine country to be known for some grape stomping, but strawberries? The Strawberry Stampede, held in conjunction with the Arroyo Grande Strawberry Festival, is a 5K run, 10K run, and 5K walk on Memorial Day, Sunday, May 26, 2013. Race day Registration on corner of Short Street & Nelson opens at 6:45am.

The race is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Pismo Beach. All of the money raised by the Strawberry Stampede is put back into the local community in support of youth causes. There's no better reason to run! (Plus, you can work off those strawberry sweets you inhaled - and have a good excuse to enjoy some more!)

Sweet Dreams in Pismo Beach

If you're making your way to the Central Coast for this premiere festival, make your reservations at the SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel in Pismo Beach now because the Strawberry Festival draws a crowd! Many of our guests find other reasons to come early and stay later than just the Memorial Day weekend. With so much to do in Pismo Beach and on the Central Coast, those delicious berries are just the tip of the iceberg. Dig into everything our area has to offer - from fruit to wine, sand to surf.

 

Get Ready for a Stellar Summer in Pismo Beach

• Posted On: May 17, 2013 10:53 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Where to Stay in SLO County

Get Ready for a Stellar Summer in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach never has a shortage of things to do, especially in Summer. May and June are two of our favorite months for Central Coast events and celebrations.

Wine and Surf for a Good Cause

It's that time of year again! Wine, Waves, and Beyond is the classic surf and wine event that celebrates San Luis Obispo wine country and the unique Pismo Beach surf culture. The events - surf contests, movie night, scrumptious dinners, wine and beer tastings, a VW display, live music, and more - take place at various venues throughout the county and all proceeds support the Association of Amputee Surfers (AmpSurf), a non-profit organization dedicated to educating and rehabilitating individuals with disabilities through the healing power of the ocean.

Life's a Breeze at Dinosaur Caves

Pacific Breeze Concerts at Dinosaur Caves Park are a family affair with free music and activities from 1 to 4 p.m. Each concert will be held on a Sunday: June 9, Big Daddy's Blues Band; July 14, Sean Wiggins and I0ne g0at; and August 11, JD Project. Dinosaur Caves is also known for offering visitors some fun elements of the prehistoric era, including climb-worthy giant dinosaur eggs (perfect for photo ops), not to mention an utterly amazing oceanfront blufftop view.

Fine Art in the Summer

Also located at Dinosaur Caves Park in Shell Beach is the beloved Art in the Park series, held 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of every month from May through November. Over 100 of the finest Pismo Beach artisans display their amazing work - from sculpture to glasswork, jewelry to textiles, paintings to furniture - and there is a little something for everyone in your crew, including music and children's activities.

Have a Barrel of Fun in Pismo Beach

Roll Out the Barrels is a summer tradition in San Luis Obispo County, setting the tone for a season all about good vibes, great wines, and happy people. This is the 23^rd year for this signature event and it runs from Thursday, June 20th, through Sunday, June 23rd. It all begins with a grand tasting on Thursday evening during which SLO Wine Country wines will be paired with scrumptious morsels prepared by local chefs. Friday night is a showcase of winemaker's dinners, with area restaurants and wineries teaming up. The weekend includes a two-day passport to over 20 wineries, also offering wine and food pairings as well as live entertainment, exclusive specials, and more.

A Summer Stay in Pismo Beach

The SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel in Pismo Beach has a central location that makes any Central Coast stay convenient and easy. Whether you're headed to Pismo Beach for one of these exciting summer events, or if you're simply coming to enjoy the natural wonders of the area, we'll help you put your feet up and appreciate the best of Pismo.

 

AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA IN AVILA BEACH THURSDAY!

• Posted On: May 14, 2013 11:54 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Fun with Kids in SLO County, Outdoor Fun, Press Room

 

AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA IN AVILA BEACH THURSDAY!
 

On May 16, the peloton sweeps into the Avila Valley, storming down Front Street to an incredibly dramatic finish.  The race itself kicks off two days of celebration. After the breathtaking finish and the award ceremonies Thursday afternoon, stroll over to the Avila Beach Golf Course for a free concert from 4:30-6:30 pm.

Then on Friday, between 11 am-4pm, there is the "Wine Walk," featuring 10 outstanding Avila Beach wineries. Grammy Award Winner, Louie Ortega, will be performing at Avila Wine and Roasting Company during the Wine Walk. There will be live music, appetizers, wine tastings, and special discounts at select wineries. And if you stay in one of the excellent Avila Beach hotels or vacation rentals, you'll receive a special VIP pass for complimentary tastings at all participating wineries.

That afternoon also take in the wonderful Fish & Farmers' Market, featuring booths overflowing with fresh local produce and hand-crafted artisan foods, crafts, area restaurants selling delicious meals, and a lively local band.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE TOUR!

Roll Out the Barrels...Get your tickets now!

• Posted On: May 14, 2013 11:38 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Press Room, Wine & Dine in SLO County

 

Roll Out the Barrels...Get your tickets now!

For 23 consecutive years, our annual Roll Out The Barrels summer celebration has set the pace for good times, good vibes and good wines in San Luis Obispo County. As an associate member of SLO Wine Country, you have the opportunity to redeem free tickets based on your membership level.  ***NOTE:  In order to get your tickets, you must reserve them through our online form.  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ROLL OUT THE BARRELS TICKETS NOW.

*SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES:  If your business is interested in becoming a sponsor for Roll Out the Barrels, please contact Heather Muran at heather@slowine.com, or CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

*NEW THIS YEAR:  The City of San Luis Obispo is partnering with SLO Wine Country and we will be offering $20 off per passport ticket if you stay in SLO.  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION!
  

San Luis Obispo County tourist spending hits $1.2 billion

• Posted On: May 13, 2013 11:45 AM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Press Room

San Luis Obispo County and the U.S. Travel Association Celebrate Economic Benefits of Tourism in Local Communities  

San Luis Obispo County tourist spending hits $1.2 billion

Visit San Luis Obispo County partnered with the U.S. Travel Association to celebrate National Tourism Week, May 4-12, 2013 and quantify its impact on the local community.  Tourism is currently the number one industry in San Luis Obispo County with visitor spending totaling $1.2 billion* in 2011.  Industry earnings generated by travel and tourism spending reached $405 million, which generated $79 million of direct tax receipts supporting San Luis Obispo County. Tourism employs 15,570 persons in San Luis Obispo County. Jobs range from entry level to head of household in tourism, including accommodations and food service to arts, entertainment and recreation to retail and transportation. Tourism keeps San Luis Obispo County's local communities economically viable.

Visit San Luis Obispo County, the destination marketing organization for the county works to position, brand and promote San Luis Obispo County as a choice destination for regional, national, and global visitors. Visit San Luis Obispo County has been active for 29 years.

Creating a strong national identity for San Luis Obispo County, Visit San Luis Obispo County in partnership with Sunset Magazine will present Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast, September 26-29, 2013. This annual event attracted nearly 10,000 food and wine lovers to celebrate the Central Coast lifestyle in 2012. Attendance numbers were up 11% over 2011 and saw guests from 23 states in addition to California and San Luis Obispo County. Revenues from the four-day event boosted the local economy by $3.58 million, a 22% increase over 2011, reflecting a third consecutive year of growth.

For a chance to win tickets to the 2013 event please visit www.facebook.com/visitsanluisobispocounty to enter the sweepstakes.

Tourism is important to the national economy. Travel and tourism generated $2 trillion in economic output for the U.S. economy in 2012. The industry also represents one of America's largest employers, supporting 14.6 million jobs (including 7.7 million directly in the travel industry and 6.9 million in other industries). Direct spending by domestic and international travelers averaged $2.3 billion a day, $97.7 million an hour, $1.6 million a minute and $25,125 a second.

"Travel is a force that can drive our nation's economic recovery. It is one of the healthiest sectors of our economy in terms of job creation and hiring, employing one out of every eight Americans," said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, the umbrella organization representing the U.S. travel industry.

* Dean Runyan Associates

I Love Where I Live: Celebrate MOM by a Weekend Getaway with You!

• Posted On: May 8, 2013 6:01 PM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Arts & Culture in SLO County, Outdoor Fun, Wine & Dine in SLO County

I Love Where I Live: Celebrate MOM by a Weekend Getaway with You!

Don't forget that "Mother's Day" is this Sunday, May 12th. If you, like me, often find yourself in the precarious position of searching for that meaningful, though last minute gift for mom - I've got a great idea for you!

Why not create a most special gift by buying mom a gift certificate to one of our beautiful San Luis Obispo hotels for a special get away with you? Most hotels offer gift certificates, and many offer ‘deals' for stays that add on special perks to your stay.

Here are a few ideas to consider:

• A weekend in Pismo Beach: Walk the wide beaches, explore the pier, and dine on delicious food in the historic downtown area of Pismo.
• Visit Cambria: Take mom on a tour of Hearst Castle and a drive up HWY 1 to hike the huge redwoods in Big Sur.
• Enjoy the wines of Paso Robles: Introduce mom to the wonderful wines and beautiful scenery of Paso Robles.
• Explore our historic Downtown San Luis Obispo: Take mom on a shopping trip and explore our many boutiques, the beautiful Mission de Tolosa, and the many fine eateries in town.

These are just a few of many ways you can enjoy a weekend with mom on the Central Coast. So instead of the usual bouquet of flowers, consider giving mom the ultimate gift - the gift of time with you!

Happy Mother's Day!

 

Laura Gurreau

Central Coast Food Tours

Seared and Braised Feta-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with White Wine and Green Olives

• Posted On: May 8, 2013 5:58 PM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Wine & Dine in SLO County

 

Seared and Braised Feta-Stuffed Chicken Thighs with White Wine and Green Olives

by Brigit Binns  

This gutsy and rustic dish features powerful acidity from the feta, wine, and olives, but the tanginess is tamed slightly by the broth and the natural richness inherent to chicken thighs-one of my favorite bits of the chicken. It's the perfect dish to serve when meat is not on the menu but you plan to serve a good red wine with the main course.  

Serves 6

• 12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, preferably from a pasture-raised chicken
• Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (7- to 8-ounce) block feta cheese, cut into 12 small rectangles
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 large shallots, coarsely chopped
• Large sprig fresh rosemary
• Large sprig fresh thyme
• 5 garlic cloves, minced or pushed through a press
• 1 1/4 cups medium-dry white wine, such as Viognier or a Rhône blend
• 1 cup homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lemon slice
• 1½ cups mild, brine-cured green olives (about 6 ounces), pitted and halved
• 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (optional)

Place half the boneless thighs on a work surface with the smaller end toward you and spread them out flat; season generously with pepper. Place a rectangle of feta in the center and roll up to the top. Tie either end with a short piece of thin kitchen twine to hold in the cheese. Repeat with the remaining thighs and feta. Season generously with salt and just a little bit of pepper.

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is very hot, add six of the chicken rolls and sear until golden brown on all sides, turning with tongs. Transfer to a platter, let the pan heat up again and sear the remaining rolls in the same way; transfer to the platter. Pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of the fat from the pan and return it to medium heat. Add the shallots, rosemary and thyme. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the shallots are tender, then add the garlic and stir for 1 minute. Add the wine and bring to a brisk simmer; reduce the liquid by about half, 6 to 8 minutes, tipping the pan and skimming the fat occasionally. Return the chicken to the pan and add the broth, lemon slice, ¼ teaspoon salt, and plenty of pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with aluminum foil and the lid, if there is one, and transfer to the oven. Cook for 20 minutes, then turn the chicken pieces over, add the olives, re-cover, and continue cooking for about 10 minutes more, or until the chicken is very tender.

Transfer the chicken to a warm, clean platter and cover loosely with foil. On the stovetop, place the skillet over high heat and reduce the sauce a little bit to concentrate the juices, stirring, for 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the remains of the herb branches and the lemon slice, return the chicken to the pan for a moment to warm through, and serve, spooning plenty of the chunky sauce over the top and sprinkling with the parsley.

Recommended Pairings: Central Coast: Villa Creek "Granadina," Paso Robles (Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedre)

*Photo credit to Maria Liberati

Brigit Binns is the author or co-author of numerous best-selling cookbooks, many of them for Williams-Sonoma. Although she has lived, cooked, and celebrated the pleasures of the table from New York to London to Southern Spain-and throughout the Mediterranean-her heart always remained true to her home state of California.  All Refugio classes take place in her beautiful outdoor kitchen in Paso Robles.

Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival

• Posted On: May 7, 2013 12:28 PM
• Posted By: Brittany Garcia
• Related Subjects: Outdoor Fun, Wine & Dine in SLO County

 

Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival

June 22, 2013 | 4:00 to 8:00 pm
Atascadero Lake Park

Sip Wine From Over 80 San Luis Obispo County Wines! Pair Local Food with Local Wines! Enjoy Fine Art, Live Music & Entertainment!

$45 in Advance, $50 at the Door, Buy Tickets Online Now!

In honor of the Atascadero Centennial Celebration, the 2013 Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival kicks off June 22, 2013 at 4:00 pm!

The 18th Annual Atascadero Lakeside Wine Festival brings together more than eighty Central Coast wineries to the Atascadero Lake Park to share their favorite wines for this annual Festival. Continuing the celebration of the senses, the Festival provides an eclectic selection of fares from local chefs with an array of culinary creations to invigorate your spirits and enjoy the good life, against the backdrop of this truly inspired Lakeside Festival.

In addition to this great collection of wine and local cuisine, there will be an artist showcase and live entertainment, adding to the ambiance of this unique Lakeside Festival.

Proceeds for this event benefit the Charles Paddock Zoo and local community projects.

Ticket Purchasing is available through the Atascadero Chamber.