Winter in the Vineyard

Here at Rubino Estates, we maintain that natural beauty is not confined to a single season. Even in the depths of winter, when the vines are at their most bare and very little blooms, there is still life and beauty if one looks closely enough. The vines are resting after the labor of producing fruit, and gaining strength for yet another year of generous yields and fruitful blessings. Below, we have sought to capture the peculiarly shrouded beauty of this season. 

There is always life in the vineyard. This little mustard plant blooms with small flowers, bright and defiant, surrounded by the bareness of the vines. 

The blue skies of winter in the Livermore Valley shine with pureness and clarity upon this block of our beloved Chardonnay.

Acres upon acres without leaves or color may seem monotonous, but there is a peaceful and necessary rest to dormancy.  

Without dormancy, these vines would not grow or flourish. The gnarled bark here is evidence of new growth within. 

The search for beauty means looking high and low. The winter rains have caused a lush green bed to grow between each row.

A closer look reveals that the morning dew has bedecked the grass with diamond droplets, a simple sparkle preserved by the chill of the day. 

Another close look at this vine reveals their hard labor from the 2021 harvest season. Can you see the remains of clusters, long gone?

There is beauty in the simplicity of this season. There is a chill in the air and bareness on the vines, but there is still wonder in our eyes as we look upon the vineyard in anticipation of all that 2022 holds. 

Do you want to look at the vineyard, up close and personal? Do you want to learn more about the life cycle of our vines and the winemaking process, from stem to bottle? Click here to learn about our Duck Tour!

Random Acts of Wellness

If you’re already tired of winter weather or worried about the twists and turns we’ll experience in 2022, you’re not alone. As each day goes by, however, we’re learning to practice “random acts of wellness”—little actions that take only a few minutes but can brighten a day. For the things we can work on and the things that are outside of our control, these actions may help you to feel ready to face each day, week, month, and year. 

Get Outside and Move. 

The evidence in support of the physical and psychological benefits of this is overwhelming. Even if the sun isn’t shining or the chill is getting to you, it’s worth it. You don’t need to have a full workout on your front lawn (although that might be refreshing), just put on a coat, step outside, and breathe. Stretch a little, take a few steps or go around the block and enjoy the energizing power of fresh air and movement.  

Clean Something.

You don’t have to scrub and polish, just set a timer for 2-5 minutes and straighten something up. Research shows that cleaning is powerfully connected to improved mood and focus, so if you’re looking for a little act of wellness with good reward, this one is worth trying. Bonus points if you grab a friend, family, member, or coworker to join you and do the same.

Express Thankfulness. 

Next time you say “thank you” to someone, try to pause and dwell on your thankfulness. Gratefulness is closely connected with well-being. If you appreciate a sense of meaning or feel like you need a little boost, we recommend writing a thank you note to someone or write down a couple things you are thankful for. You don’t even need to send the note, although you may find another boost of joy in doing so!

Change your Scenery.

This is especially important for anyone feeling weighed down by a monotonous routine. Take your work or task to another room, or leave your work behind and spend 5 minutes with a cozy blanket. Try to find a room with natural light. Try putting on some music you enjoy. Sing along, even if it’s not great!

Try Something New.

Trying new things is a great way to make memories, stimulate creativity, and open the door to know yourself better! The gesture does not have to be grand. Try wearing something outside of your usual wardrobe, or find a recipe for something you’ve never cooked. If you usually drink white wine, try reds. If you usually walk for exercise, try biking.  Even if it doesn’t feel as comfortable as what’s familiar to you, it’s always worth trying!

Here at the Estate, walking through the vineyards or trying new varietals are some of our favorite quick mood-boosters. What are some random acts of wellness you want to bring into your 2022?

 

Taste the Love: Valentine's Portfiolo Tasting

Valentine's Day is a month away, how will you make it special? We pour painstaking care into every aspect of our wines, from stem to bottle. These meticulously farmed and crafted wines are a labor of love, and it is a delight to share them with an aura of awe and pleasure. 

We are calling all Love-birds, Sweet-hearts, and Wine-lovers! If you want to make Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable and undeniably special, then consider a Valentine’s Portfolio Tasting. For anyone who has a special someone and appreciates a good glass of wine, there’s nothing more perfect for you. 

During your tasting, you will be guided through the history of our Estate Vineyard, as well as a flight of wine offering the best of the best from both the Rubino Estates Landmark Collection and the Ruby Hill Jewel Collection. Alongside the flight, we offer luxurious food offerings to help you celebrate romance and delight! Sip and savor with other couples who love good wine and a good time. At the end of the event, each couple will receive a bottle of Sparkling Wine to take home. 

Our Valentine's Portfolio Tastings will be offered on February 11, and 12 at 11:30am and 2:00pm. If you and your significant other are interested in this event, please book through our Tock site. For members, the ticket price is $80 per couple (two people), and for all other guests the price is $90 per couple.

Will you be our Valentine?

5 Healthy Food and Wine Pairings

It’s officially 2022! If you’ve held tight to your New Year’s Resolution so far, we have great news: we’ve made it to the end of week one, only 51 to go. This week, we’re standing with everyone who has been working to eat more fresh and wholesome food this year. Below, we have some of the best pairings for delicious healthy recipes. A glass of wine will treat you fine—it’s time to pursue the joy of balance!

Fumé Blanc and Roasted Beet Salad

Beyond their rich color and distinct earthy flavor, beets are a nutritional powerhouse. They help the human body function better at most levels, even making workouts more effective! This salad pairs beets with shallots and other delicious flavors so you can enjoy life and eat beets at the same time. Enjoy with a nice light sip of Fumé Blanc.
Recipe from Food Network

Landmark Sangiovese and Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers know no other wine better than Sangiovese, so if you are enjoying this hearty and healthy recipe, feel free to pour a cherry-red glass for yourself. This recipe features bell peppers as well as zucchini and cracked freekeh, an ancient grain that will bulk up your meal without weighing you down!  
Recipe from The Wanderlust Kitchen

Salute Red and Veggie Burgers 

If you’re following a plant-based diet, you don’t have to say goodbye to burgers. This recipe yields a hearty, protein-rich patty that can be dressed up however you like. The acidity and approachability of our Salute Red blend will compliment each bite perfectly! If you opt for an Impossible Burger as a substitute, you can lean into an even deeper red such as our Night Owl Barbera. 
Recipe From Sally's Baking Addiction

Chardonnay and Flounder with Corn Relish 

If you’re looking for a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, then look to the ocean! This recipe has all of the luxury and refinement of your favorite seaside fine dining, while still supporting your goals of health and wellness! When enjoyed alongside a glass of our creamy yet light Riserva Chardonnay you won’t even crave a cheat day. 
Recipe from Food & Wine

Amuleto and Chicken Under a Brick

With this recipe, you can make a juicy bird with crispy skin without a fuss—all you need is a foil-wrapped brick. There’s no need for extra sauces or other rich enhancements to make this a delicious meal, especially when served alongside a caesar salad and our Club Member-Exclusive Amuleto.
Recipe from Eat This, Not That