Liechtenstein castle in Vaduz

Liechtenstein Wines: Discover Europe’s Hidden Wine Gem

Nestled between Switzerland and Austria, the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein is known for its alpine landscapes and medieval castles. Unbeknownst to most, Liechtenstein’s history centers on wine. This sixth-smallest country in the world has a winemaking tradition dating back more than 2,000 years. With a handful of vineyards along the Rhine Valley, Liechtenstein produces small

Rolling hills with vineyard landscape at J+K Vineyard.

Fuil Wines: Santa Barbara’s Rising Cool-Climate Winery

A passion for winemaking is the spirit behind Fuil Wines. The wines are as much about refinement and restraint as they are about expression. Founded by Matt and Carolina Espiro Jaeger, Fuil Wines is rooted in crafting wines that showcase Santa Barbara County’s extraordinary terroir. Fuil produces elegant, layered, and quietly compelling wines. Shaped by

Vineyard pathway with lush greenery

Concannon Vineyard: A Legacy Impacting Livermore Valley Wine

A winery’s history plays a crucial role in the wines it produces today. This legacy is the foundation that the forefathers of each winery give to the present-day owners. How the current generation or new owners interpret what is handed down impacts both the grapes and the winemaking process. It can also make or break

Fire Chef Coby Bailey i front of his stovetop

Cajun Roots to National Spotlight: Coby Bailey’s Inspiring Story

From the blazes of saving a property to the bold flavors he crafted in the kitchen, Coby Bailey brought his unique story to The Great American Recipe. Known for his leadership as a fire chief, Bailey discovered that the same discipline, creativity, and calm-under-pressure mindset required on the job translates to cooking. What began as

Park Service Ranger Betty Reid Soskin

Women’s History Month: Spotlighting Betty Reid Soskin’s Legacy

The story of Betty Reid Soskin melds with the history of women, especially Black women. Her life experiences shaped her character and a very eclectic career, from a file clerk to the music business, to a community leader, and ultimately a park ranger. During her career with the National Park Service, Betty Reid Soskin showed

Elegant Guest House at Hearst Castle with fountain and stairs

Women’s History Month: Celebrating Julia Morgan A Trailblazer in Architecture

Women’s History Month is a time to focus on legendary women like Julia Morgan. In the early twentieth century, when men dominated the field of architecture, Morgan broke barriers to become the first licensed woman architect in California. Famous for her innovative designs, meticulous engineering, and lasting landmarks, including the renowned Hearst Castle, Morgan made

Award certificate 34th Annual NATJA Awards Competition Travel Shorts

Gold in Travel Shorts: 2026 NATJA Awards Competition

I am pleased to announce that Ken Bornstein and my video, Sensorio Illuminating Paso Robles, won the Gold Award in the Travel Shorts Category in the 34th Annual North American Travel Journalist Association, NATJA Awards Competition. Travel Shorts: Sensorio Sensorio is a standout light exhibit set in the landscape of Paso Robles. One strolls along

Best Wine 2025 Year In Review

Best Wine 2025: Year In Review

As the new year begins, it’s time to share my Best Wine 2025 year in review, highlighting standout wines and memorable tasting experiences from the past year. In addition to in-person and Zoom tastings in Los Angeles, I traveled to Paso Robles, El Dorado County, Amador County, and Morgan Hill to explore their wineries. As

Travel 2025 Year In Review - Hearst CastleLush gardens with palm trees and mountains.

Travel 2025 Year In Review

In 2025, my travel adventures took me to Lafayette, Paso Robles, El Dorado County, Amador County, New York, Concord, Livermore, Santa Maria, and Morgan Hill. I traveled both virtually and in person. Enjoy my 2025 travel year-in-review as I continue to broaden my horizons by exploring new places. My travel plans were more limited because,

View of vineyards and trees at Landry Vineyards West Monroe, Louisiana

Landry Vineyards: Louisiana’s Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

While viticulture can be more challenging in some states, and knowing almost every state grows grapes and produces wine, I enjoy discovering the wines of each state in the union. Such is the case in Louisiana, a state I recently visited. Grape growing in Louisiana presents both challenges and exciting opportunities, and Landry Vineyards is

5 Shares