#El Dorado Wine Country

[wine-porn]

Cap California

The Sierra Foothills makes a lot of wine–over several sprawling counties–and although I hate the term *world class* applied nonchalantly to various burgeoning regions by people typically having little experience in what it truly means, places like the eastern foothills of California are rife with wine falling far short of that vague qualifier. The Sierra Foothills makes a lot of wine: very little…

[rabbitcruiser]

California was admitted as the thirty-first U.S. state on September 9, 1850.  

California Admission Day

California Admission Day is observed on September 9 each year. It commemorates the day California was admitted into the Union as the 31st state in 1850 after it was ceded to the United States by Mexico in 1848. California became one of the few states to become a state without first being an organized territory. California Admission Day is not a federal holiday. Rather, it’s a local observance in the state, which implies that businesses, schools, and government offices remain open. In times gone by it was celebrated with great pomp and ceremony with parades and pageantry. Though low-key now, the day still marks an important part of Californian history.

History of California Admission Day

The Mexican-American War began in May 1846 when the U.S. declared war on Mexico. American settlers who lived in the territory of California in Mexico revolted against the Mexican government in what is known as the Bear Flag Revolt. The Americans captured Sonoma, hoisted a Bear Flag in the area, and declared it the California Republic. On July 9, 1846, Navy Lieutenant Joseph Warren Revere arrived in Sonoma and replaced the Bear Flag in the territory with a United States flag. Lieutenant Revere officially declared California a possession of the United States. In February 1848, Mexico and the U.S. signed the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo to end the war. This treaty meant that Mexico had to yield a large portion of its Southwest territory — including present-day California — to the U.S.

As of the signing of the treaty, California had a meager population that was not up to the 60,000-inhabitant benchmark a territory needed to achieve statehood. Earlier in January 1848, gold was discovered on the American River near Sacramento, and the territory witnessed a massive influx of immigrants looking for work and good fortune. Thanks to the Gold Rush, a huge increase in population and wealth followed, thus necessitating the need for civil government and local policies.

In 1849, Californians demanded statehood, and California became the 31st state on September 9, 1850. California joined the Union as a free, non-slavery state by the Compromise of 1850 in just about two years of the territory’s incorporation. Its first capital was in San Jose before it was moved to the city of Vallejo for lack of necessary facilities. The capital was later moved to Benicia, a small town, and subsequently to the riverside port of Sacramento in 1854.

California Admission Day timeline

1846

The Bear Flag Revolt

American settlers in California stage a revolt against Mexican authorities.

1848

A Treaty for Peace

The United States and Mexico sign the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo to end the war between the countries.

1850

The Compromise of 1850

The Compromise of 1850 is signed and California is admitted as the 31st state to the Union.

1911

Adoption of the California State Flag

The California State Flag, based on the original Bear Flag, is adopted by the state legislature.

California Admission Day FAQs

Is California Admission Day a federal holiday?

California Admission Day is not a federal holiday. It’s a local observance in the state of California. Schools, businesses, and government offices remain open.

What are other names for California?

California is also known as ‘The Golden State, ‘The Land of Milk and Honey,’ ‘The El Dorado State,’ and ‘The Grape State.’

What is California famous for?

California remains one of the most popular destinations throughout North America. The state is especially famous for Hollywood, Disneyland, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Other unique landmarks in California include Coachella, Silicon Valley, the Wine Country, and Surf Culture.

California Admission Day Activities

Visit the Golden StateIf you’re a history buff, today’s the perfect day to visit California. Museums around California offer various resources and artifacts to help you learn more about the state’s rich history. Take a day trip or make a holiday of it and travel to more than one.

Enjoy the special eventsCalifornia Admission Day is observed with special events at schools, museums, and organizations throughout the state. Public officials often grant special addresses about its history and significance.

Take a trip to SonomaCalifornia Admission Day has been observed particularly in the Sonoma area since 1850. It would be nice to visit the area where it all began. Don’t forget to enjoy the state’s beautiful beaches, valleys, and mountains as you celebrate with them!

5 Fun Facts About California

Originally named “the Grizzly Bear State": California has renamed the Golden State from its initial name “the Grizzly Bear State” as the bears went extinct.

The state motto is ‘Eureka!’: The Greek word means “I have found it!” and alludes to the discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada.

Redwood is the official state tree: California’s official state tree is the redwood, as designated in 1937.

It’s called ‘The Grape State’, too: Over 300,000 tons of grapes are grown in California annually, and the state produces more than 17 million gallons of wine each year!

Blue jeans: In 1873 blue jeans were imported for miners from Europe, making San Francisco the first place in the U.S. where jeans were worn.

Why We Love California Admission Day

Becoming a recognized state in the U.S.This event celebrates the day California officially became a state in the U.S. It was a protracted struggle but thanks to the peace treaty that ended the Mexican-American War of 1848, it was a done deal.

A tribute to the war heroesThe struggle to acquire California as a possession of the U.S. was not an easy one. It took a war, diplomacy, protests, and legislation to make it possible. This day celebrates the memories of everyone who fought to make it possible.

The population boost that came with the Gold RushCalifornia’s low population would have hindered its prospects to become a state and admittance to the Union. Thanks to the Gold Rush, the territory was able to have the 60,000 inhabitants it needed to achieve statehood.

[qualcosadelgenere]

PT. 3

1) Falcão da Silva: "He trained his reflexes in the depths of the Amazon, and puts them to work on the pitch."

2) Lagarto Carlos: "He seems to move to a samba rhythm when he makes a challenge on the pitch."

3) Bagre Antonio: "He's involved in an environmental movement to save the endangered Brazilwood tree."

4) Monstro: "When he drinks coffee, he surges with power. Doesn't do his health much good, though."

5) Formiga Clemens: "He likes to pioneer forms of agriculture that are more rainforest friendly."

6) Presa: "He's really interested in developing engine fuel derived from sugar cane."

7) Borboleta Barbosa: "He wants to look beyond the borders of Brazil and study the playing styles of other nations."

8) Coruja Cerezo: "His powerful physique is down to his arduous training carrying bundles of sugar cane."

9) Leonardo Almeida: "Football's in his blood. He's the fourth generation to represent his country."

10) Mack Ronijo: "Strength, talent, determination-this guy's got the lot. He's the perfect player."

11) Gato: "At the carnival, listen out for the distinctive timbre of his home-made tambourine."

12) Javali Ribeiro: "He's always thinking up spectacular outfits to wear to the carnival."

13) Urso Nogueira: "His cool and calculated style doesn't always mesh with passionate Latin football."

14) Cavalo Oliviera: "His big plan is to start an international biofuel bussiness in Brazil."

15) Tigre Mendes: "He gets more and more pumped as the crowd cheer louder and louder!"

16) Grilo Santos: "His family run a traditional Brazilian eaterie, so he's always cooking for his team-mates."

1) Jorge Ortega: "He's known for his aggressive style. His brutal tackles often lead to melees."

2) Teres Tolue: "Proud of his impregnable defence, he directs the team from the back."

3) Julio Acosta: "He has a fondness for yeba maté tea, and he always packs some when he plays away."

4) Gordo Díaz: "From a family of vineyard owners, he's striving to put Argentinian wine on the map."

5) Ramón Martinez: "He really appreciates the colonial architecture of Buenos Aires."

6) Esteban Carlos: "He does altitude training in the Andes, so there's no escaping his tenacious plays."

7) Sergio Pérez: "He has lofty ambitions of reinventing the Argentinian literary scene."

8) Roberto Torres: "The old legend of El Dorado is an enduring passion for him. He dreams of finding it."

9) Pablo Castillo: "The natural beauty of Argentina inspires his art, and he hopes for recognition."

10) Leone Batigo: "His swooping, powerful plays have earned him the nickname El Cóndor."

11) Diego Oro: "This nutty player sets off fireworks in his bathroom at Christmas and new year."

12) Lionel Cruz: "He makes incredible pork sausages. It's like a hobby for him."

13) Mario Saviola: "His pushy parents said to him, "you'd better win, or else!", which causes him much angst."

14) Hernán Tevez: "Despite his young age, he helps the local radio station, covering football matches."

15) Germán Samuel: "Serve him a steak, sprinkled with sea salt and grilled over an open fire, and he's in heaven."

16) Ricardo Agüero: "The windy regions of Patagonia have been his training ground, so he's an all-weather player."

1) Billy Rapid: "He wants to be a cowboy in a western. He's always practising lines in the mirror."

2) Ted Bryan: "He sees Silicon Valley as a goldmine, and he hopes to make his fortune there."

3) Tony Stridas: "This guy is obsessed with eating steaks. He can't rest unless he eats one a day."

4) Dyke Dynamo: "They say that he once wrestled a buffalo to the ground. I'm not so sure, though."

5) Asuka Domon: "Used to live in the USA. Behaves flippantly, but is deep-hearted."

6) Steve Woodmac: "His ambition is to sit in the Oval Office, but no one takes him seriously."

7) Kazuya Ichinose: "This comeback kid is known as the midfield magician."

8) Sean Pierce: "He's only young, but he has a good grasp of Wall Street's complex financial structures."

9) Mark Kruger: "America's star player. He, together with Ichinose, pulls the team along."

10) Dylan Keith: "Top scorer of the FFI qualifier tournament. He is called "Mister Goal"."

11) Michele Jacks: "Despite his age, he is already a genius child actor who has been 10 years in a Hollywood acting career!"

12) Alex Hawk: "He insists that he can read the signs in nature to predict the weather."

13) Rob Parker: "He wants to live the American dream by taking his country all the way to the top."

14) Bob Bobbins: "He's a real slob. He loves to sprawl on the sofa, swilling cola and chomping chips."

15) Sammy Dempsey: "He's tiny for an American, but within him hides the coiled power of a jungle cat."

16) Eddie Howard: "He didn't care much for American football, but he really took to soccer."

____________ _______ ___ _ _ _

(Btw what kind of an introductory line is this, referring to a 14 year old kid, like??

'He was supposed to have died, but...*🙄🥱*'?? But what?? You wanted Kazuya dead? Hater.)

[ama2024]

https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/118472-global-coconut-alcohol-market

Coconut alcohol Market Status and Future Forecast 2023-2029

Advance Market Analytics released a new market study on Global Coconut Alcohol Market Research report which presents a complete assessment of the Market and contains a future trend, current growth factors, attentive opinions, facts, and industry validated market data. The research study provides estimates for Global Coconut Alcohol Forecast till 2029*.

Coconut alcohol is one of the leading alcohol beverages in the market. With the rising health care concern, this industry is driving huge growth in coming. It is available in various types and various different packaging techniques. The market-dominant players are heavily investing in new packaging techniques and advanced manufacturing techniques. With the growth in alcohol beverage development, this industry is having strong growth potential in the coming years.

Key Players included in the Research Coverage of Coconut Alcohol Market are:

Hunter Distilleries (Australia), Island Distillers (United States), St. Lucis Distillers Group of Companies (Saint Lucia), EL Dorado (Guyana), Pernod Ricard (France), Bacardi (Bermuda), Agavero (New Jersey), Brugal (Dominican Republic), Diageo (United Kingdom), Admiral Nelson's (United States),

What's Trending in Market: Advancement in Manufacturing Techniques

Challenges: Stringent Government Policies and Regulations Fluctuation in Price of Raw Materials

Opportunities: North America and Europe is Expecting Huge Growth in this Industry, Because of Increase in Alcoholic Consumption Companies are Investing in Technological Development to Enhance Production Capabilities

Market Growth Drivers: Increase Production of Alcoholic Beverage Exclusively with Coconut Water Growing Demand from the Asia Pacific Regions

The Global Coconut Alcohol Market segments and Market Data Break Down by Type (Beer, Wine, Vinegar, Traditional Toddy, Others), Application (Household, Commercial), Sales Channels (Online Sales Channels, Offline Sales Channels), Pricing (Low, Medium, High)

Get inside Scoop of the report, request for free sample @: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/118472-global-coconut-alcohol-market

To comprehend Global Coconut Alcohol market dynamics in the world mainly, the worldwide Coconut Alcohol market is analyzed across major global regions. AMA also provides customized specific regional and country-level reports for the following areas.

• North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico.

• South & Central America: Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Brazil.

• Middle East & Africa: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Turkey, Egypt and South Africa.

• Europe: United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands and Russia.

• Asia-Pacific: India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.

[visit-eldorado]

Exploring the Charms of Downtown Placerville

Nestled in the heart of California's Gold Country, Downtown Placerville is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its historic buildings, charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and a vibrant arts scene, Downtown Placerville offers a delightful blend of the past and present. Stroll along Main Street and soak in the unique atmosphere, where history comes alive in every corner. From exploring local shops to enjoying farm-to-table cuisine, there's something for everyone in Downtown Placerville.

[skinnervineyards5]

 Wine enthusiasts and aficionados, are you ready for an exquisite journey from vine to glass? El Dorado Hills, nestled in the heart of California's wine country, offers a unique and enchanting wine tasting experience that you won't want to miss. In this blog, we'll explore the best wineries in the region, the art of wine tasting, and take a closer look at Skinner Vineyards, a hidden gem among El Dorado Hills' lush vineyards.

[maximummagazinesize]

John Wayne’s California Ranch Sells

A California ranch actor John Wayne owned during the decade when he made some of his most famous westerns, from 1939’s “Stagecoach” to 1948’s “Red River,” has sold for $11.25 million. 

Caretakers who have lived on the property known as Rancho Pavoreal, Spanish for “Peacock Ranch,” and locals in Hemet, California, recall that The Duke, as Wayne was called, liked to ride his horse at a fast clip around the very flat ranch, said Tatiana Novick of Coldwell Banker Realty, who listed it early this year. She spoke to Mansion Global before it sold at the end of May. “He used it as a scenic getaway.”

The front gate at Rancho Pavoreal looks like a scene from a John Wayne Western.

StunningPhotography.com

The 3,000-square-foot main house, which was built in the 1950s after Wayne sold the property, has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and sits on more than 2,000 acres.

John Wayne, seen here on the set of “El Dorado” lived on the ranch in the ’30s and ’40s.

Getty Images

“It’s rare to find such a large property in this area,” she said, adding that most of the neighboring properties are only about one-tenth of its size. “It’s one of a kind; I haven’t seen one like it in Riverside County—it’s gold.”

Surrounded by acres of wildlife habitat, desert plateaus, river gorges and mountains, Rancho Pavoreal “is private—it’s tucked away from everything,” she said. “And it’s beautiful in all seasons; in winter, there’s snow on the mountains.”

Long after Wayne’s last ride, the property came into the hands of an East Coast couple, who used it as a dude ranch that included several houses for half a century. The seller, who bought the ranch in 2015, converted it back to a family retreat. “He loved it, but he’s 99—he feels it is time to sell,” she said. He declined to comment.

An old-fashioned tree swing creates a relaxing outdoor seat.

StunningPhotography.com

In addition to the adobe house, with its terracotta tile roof, and the old barn, there are three wells and horse trails. The property is fenced and cross-fenced for cattle and horses, and it has electricity and propane.

The City of Hemet, which is in the San Jacinto Valley, is about 20 minutes from Temecula Wine Country and is halfway between San Diego and Palm Springs.

“It’s a very old area, and it’s like a scene from the wild, wild West,” Novick said. “It’s charming and unchanged, and you can feel its old character.”

She added that several decades ago, geologists found Indian arrows and bows at Rancho Pavoreal, not surprising since Hemet originally was home to the Cahuilla Indian tribe.

[valerie]

TWITL - week forty-one - #SamHunt in Sparks

Wait, am I really devoting my week 41 entry to Sam Hunt? Well, maybe not all of it but most of it because SAM HUNT. https://flic.kr/p/2nTjov2 For better or worse, Sam Hunt was the reason for my renewed interest in country music seven years ago. I'm going to say it's for the better because if not for Sam, I might not have "discovered" Tyler Rich, made online friends with fellow Sam fans who then led me to the Davis brothers (Jacob and Jordan), and made real life friends who shared and continue to share the love for Tyler. Sam will never know this but he is the reason for so much of the musical joy in my life and for that, I am so ever grateful. (And I still hold on to the hope that I'll get that picture with Sam and Tyler someday. Hey, it could happen.) I admit it, I fell HARD for Sam Hunt when I discovered him back in 2015. He is even one of my Listworthy fellas (read about it here). I saw him live a few times but they were never enough. When tickets went on sale for his tour in 2020 (Southside Summer Tour 2020), I bought them. Well, that didn't happen, of course. I was excited when Sam's tickets for his 2022 summer tour went on sale but we didn't buy tickets right away because he didn't have any dates close to us. Once we decided an out of area concert would be fun, we bought tickets. Add the fact that it would be a great away to end fall break and we had the makings to a good time. (We soon after bought tickets to Tyler's show, which would mean beginning and ending fall break in the Reno area.) I decided to make myself a long weekend so I took Thursday and Friday off. Good thing too because we headed up to Reno early on Friday morning so the hubby could do some work at the Reno office. https://flic.kr/p/2nSUZ9b After work, we went to a local restaurant for drinks. When we were back at the hotel, I decided to stay in because getting up at just before 5 am had me tired after a few drinks. We stayed at the El Dorado this time. Our room on the 7th floor didn't have as nice a view as our room on the 14th floor at the Silver Legacy but the room was neat and clean. https://flic.kr/p/2nTqxMM Our Uber was the batmobile and the driver was wearing a Batman hoodie... for reals... https://flic.kr/p/2nSVoAu Sad to say I couldn't quite finish this litre of beer... https://flic.kr/p/2nSY1sN the view behind me was all right... We had a late start Saturday and I still needed a nap before the show. Am I getting old or what? We had brunch at Liberty Food and Wine Exchange then drinks at the Eddy before heading back to the room for a little rest before the show. https://flic.kr/p/2nTjgh9 couldn't resist another picture of the big sign... https://flic.kr/p/2nTiBhq crab cake benny at Liberty https://flic.kr/p/2nTiz7U sitting in shade at the Eddy... We headed out early enough to get to the area of the venue about an hour before show time. After a little walk through Victorian Square, we sat down for a drink and food at Great Basin Brewing Company. I had something called a Flannel Mule that was pretty tasty. When we finished, we headed to the venue. https://flic.kr/p/2nTwqWx The Nugget Event Center is an outdoor amphitheatre across the street from the Nugget Casino Resort. It's a neat venue with a nice, roomy layout. We had floor seats in section 105, along the aisle, which ended up being a rather perfect spot. The weather was cool enough for me to wear the Sam Hunt sweatshirt I ended up buying. Only for Sam will I buy a lighter colored piece, I swear. https://flic.kr/p/2nTe4Aq us https://flic.kr/p/2nTk2Kf the view from our seats Lily Rose opened up and she was great! She was energetic and lively and sounded fantastic. She was backed by her very talented band, including a guitarist named Kevin Smith, which made me giggle (and think of *my* Kevin Smith, the late actor who played Ares on Hercules and Xena). I think I've only heard one of Lily's songs before her performance but I definitely enjoyed her on stage. She rocked! https://flic.kr/p/2nTjzri Lily Rose on stage https://flic.kr/p/2nTAuS7 Sam opened up with "Leave the Night On" and all my adoration just burst forth. I was finally at a show where Sam was the headliner! He was on stage! I was singing along! All those long simmering dreams were coming true. What more could I want? https://flic.kr/p/2nTetrg Sam on stage I took snippets of all his songs, I think, so this might be the order of the songs: - "Leave the Night On" - "Hard to Forget" - "Kinfolks" - "23" - "Breaking Up Was Easy in the 90s" - "Take Your Time" - "Cop Car" - "Raised on It" - "House Party" (walked the crowd to switch stages) - "Sometimes You Gotta Start Nowhere" (small stage) - "Make You Miss Me" - "Take Me Home, Country Roads" (then the walk back to the main stage) - "Vacation" - "Water Under the Bridge" - "We are the Night" - Tyrone Carreker sang (not sure what he sang) - "Break Up in a Small Town" - "Drinkin' Too Much" - "Young Once" - "Ex to See" - "Let It Down" - "Body Like a Back Road" (finale) The only song I didn't know some of the words to was "Sometimes You Gotta Start Nowhere" and that's only because it's not been released. Yet? Other than that song, I knew all the songs that Sam sung. It made me happy to be able to sing along to almost all his songs. https://flic.kr/p/2nTCzN5 Sam, so close! During "House Party," Sam alighted the main stage and made his way through the audience to the small stage behind our section. He passed right by us! It was probably the closest I might ever get to him and I recorded it while it happened. He sang a few songs on the small stage and we thought he'd go the other back to the stage but now, he passed us again and he fist bumped the hubby as he passed by. OMG! https://flic.kr/p/2nTEhsa Sam making his way through the crowd... It was so exciting having him that close but I didn't push forward to try and touch him. It was just enough to have him that close. It was enough to hear him sing songs I'd heard so many times over the years. It was enough to be there for his show and feel the energy of the crowd, to be part of that crowd and that energy. This concert felt like a long time coming for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I really did love being part of the crowd. I loved knowing (almost) all the songs. It was a great night in a very cool venue. I wouldn't mind seeing another show at the Nugget Event Center. And I definitely wouldn't mind seeing Sam Hunt again... https://flic.kr/p/2nTjRF2 almost the end of the show https://flic.kr/p/2nT8Se1 my happy after seeing Sam Hunt face https://flic.kr/p/2nTbbu4 an ad in the casino after Sam's show Read the full article

[flowrxchild]

Hi dear, I hope you’re well! I wanted to tell you about a new album I just found called El Dorado by Marcus King! It’s his first album and it just dropped. It’s sort of bluesy-rock with a bit of country and I’ve been really enjoying it so far. I think you might like the song “Wildflowers and Wine” ����🌼🌻☀️✨

Hi my loveee!! OK DUDE I just checked him out...and I’m in love! I love his sound wowow I’ve been looking to get more into blues recently so this was literally the most perfect suggestion! Hope you’re doing good too babes thanks so much ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[wine-porn]

Crystal Clear

Shockingly clear garnet. This is NOT your thick & dense Paso syrup OR your Bandol motor-oil. In the nose, however, glimpses of that motor oil along with copious sweet vegetal and dark, powdery briar bring many Mourvedre visions to life. I’m almost positive when I had this wine a couple years ago I wrote it was a bit non-typical, and while I find a LOT of Sierra Foothills wines to be cheerily…

[awed-frog]

Consider this your ask about "ghost village" (from the bear skeleton post)

Hello person who reads tags! Thank you for this ask!

I’m more of a book person than a dig person, so I won’t be able to explain this properly, but basically what happened is that ten years ago I randomly got the chance to work on a dig in Georgia (the country) and I got very excited because

considering you work for free, it’s surprisingly hard to get any kind of international experience;

Georgia is the El Dorado of Greek archaeology because most of the sites were abandoned and forgotten about, so we keep finding awesome things;

Georgia is also a beautiful country in its own right, and well worth a visit;

and what all of that means is that I was too busy jumping up and down to properly look into the work we were going to carry out there.

(Also, to be perfectly honest, most of my research was about stuff like ‘what to do if Russia invades’ and ‘how to outrun a tank’ and ‘contacting your consulate 101′ and possibly ‘Russian for: don’t shoot I’m an archaeologist’, so.)

To give you a bit of context: Georgia is not a country it’s easy to be ready for, and the first few days were a confusing, surreal experience. I’d read about Georgia’s hospitality culture, but I was shockingly unprepared for just how pervasive and ritualistic it was. Like, I was expecting that the other students and I would immediately be put to work (my normal dig experience that far had been something along the lines of ‘Welcome! That is your tent and here is your shovel! Enjoy!’) - instead, for the first three or four days no one even mentioned why we were there? During the day, we were encouraged to laze around the camp - self-imposed activities to appear busy included picking wild hazelnuts, offering to help in the kitchen and marveling at the boss’ outstanding backgammon skills - while at night we were whisked away to various social events.

Aaaaand more context, because ‘social events’ doesn’t cover it. 

First of all, picture a table of sixty people in evening gowns, plus ten archaeology students in polo shirts and work boots (no one had told us to bring suits or anything). Embarrassment factor, checked. On top of that, those were not random people peacocking in their one good shirt - we were informed in advance, in excruciating detail, of everyone’s rank and title and family tree (think very wealthy donors who’d contributed money for our dig), and for some reason it’s even more uncomfortable to be there with your zip-off trousers next to literal royalty. Third, you can’t speak to anyone because there’s just no common language. Georgian is not something you pick up in two weeks, and my Russian didn’t extend beyond ‘I’m twenty-six’ and ‘Alexander Pushkin died a long time ago’, so there’s a lot of smiling and nodding and checking useless pocket dictionaries and stammering გმადლობთ every time you’re handed something. Fourth, there’s thousands of unwritten social rules you know nothing about - and I know, I know, social rules are a thing everywhere, but I’ve yet to find something quite as complex and fascinating as a Georgian feast. And finally, because of the aforementioned social rules, all of this happens as you’re blind drunk.

(If anyone’s curious: every Georgian meal is basically a banquet, because no matter the circumstances there are going to be at least fifteen different dishes on the table, ranging from home-made stuffed bread to whole sheep’s heads, and the problem is, you can eat as much as you want, but you have no control - zero - over what or when you’re drinking. 

At the start of the meal, what you assumed was a water glass - think a decent-sized thing - is filled with wine to the very brim. Next, everyone starts eating. After ten minutes or so, someone calls for a toast, everyone stops eating, and they all listen and cheer as a guy makes a five-minute speech about the host and how the host is the best person on the whole planet. Once he’s done, everyone drinks - as in, you have to drain your glass in one gulp - basically a shot of wine - and wait for your glass to be refilled. More eating, more pretending you understand a word of the conversations around you, and then a second guy stands up - there’s a very precise hierarchy for the toast orders - and starts praising the house of the host, most beautiful and welcoming. Shot of wine, more eating, another toast: to the wife of the host! Shot of wine, more eating, another toast: to this most blessed evening spent in such blessed company! And next: to the dig! To these talented students we’re so lucky to have at our table! To their bright future! To our glorious past! To Georgia! To this amazing wine our host made with his own hands! To the host! And it all starts again.

I’ve been told that as the evening goes on, toasts become more and more ridiculous as people struggle to find a worthy subject. Since you can’t drink when you want to, but only after a toast, there’s a rush to toast everything and anything either because a) you want to drink yourself or b) you worry your guests want to drink and you’re preventing them from doing that with your shameful lack of toasts. So in the end, it doesn’t matter how much you eat: since you can’t pace yourself, mostly every evening meal ends with a blood alcohol level of .99.)

So this is the situation: by the fourth day, I was walking around in a haze, never quite sober, happy with everything, grateful to everyone, more khachapuri than human being, and when we finally got to start working, we found all the upper layers had already been removed, which meant we would likely start finding bodies in a matter of hours.

Except we didn’t: there are no bodies in Georgia.

I think it has something to do with the chemical composition of the soil and how it eats away at the bones, but as I said, my knowledge of this stuff is pretty limited. What happens, though, is that you find graveyards and graveyards of invisible people. You uncover the beads and spirals of headdresses, then a clasp, next a pair of bracelets, and a pair of anklets, and finally the grave goods, placed at the feet of your mystery woman. And when I realized this was how it was going to be, at first I thought it would make things easier?, less creepy?, but I actually found it more unsettling - we were in the middle of this old, overgrown forest, and it started to feel like those people had gotten up and walked the fuck away - like they’d left behind their jewelry and weapons and clothes and simply - disappeared, and maybe they were there with us in that very moment, sitting on the ground and watching us marvel at their rings and pottery, maybe they would follow us back to our wooden houses, and maybe - surely, this seemed more and more like an inevitability with every passing day - surely they would sit down with us for the banquets, they would find those evenings a kind of coming home, because that laughter, those rituals, that wine aged in clay pots buried deep undeground - those things were all as old as those ghosts dining with us; Homeric Greece hunching down upon us, dark and glittering and something I will never, ever fall out of love with.

(And if anyone’s confused and incredulous and all, ‘But Frog, are you saying everyone’s drunk all the time?’, well - no - Georgians have this soup they drink the morning after a feast, and it sobers them right up, fog gone, headaches gone - one bowl contains about fifteen cloves of garlic, some magical herbs and one cow hoof - a whole-ass hoof, just floating there - so our group quickly found itself split into hungover people and hoof-eating people and you know what?, I’m damn proud of the camp I chose.

Damn proud.) 

[vogeltalksrving]

Over 100 wineries and Gold Rush history to savor in the Sierra foothills

[iamterriblyvexed]

Autumn 🍂 In Placerville

[annelouisebannon]

El Dorado Wine Country Speed Tasting

El Dorado Wine Country Speed Tasting

A rep from the El Dorado Wine Country gives some pointers for wine bloggers after the speed tasting

Imagine a hotel ballroom filled with tables of wine bloggers. Add a bunch of winery owners, marketing folk, and the occasional winemaker. How many wines can you pour for said wine bloggers in less than an hour? Not too many. But that’s okay because, for us, it turned out to be a good introduction…

[visit-eldorado]

Discovering the Charm of Placerville Bed and Breakfasts: A Getaway to Remember

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Placerville, California, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a blend of historic charm and serene landscapes. Known for its pivotal role during the Gold Rush era, today's Placerville invites visitors to step back in time and enjoy the warm hospitality of its local bed and breakfast establishments. These quaint abodes provide an intimate and unique experience that stands in sweet contrast to the bustle of city life or the impersonal touch of chain hotels.

A Taste of History with Modern Comfort

Many of the bed and breakfasts in Placerville are historical buildings themselves, each with a story to tell. From restored Victorian mansions to cozy, rustic cottages, they offer guests a slice of history, coupled with the comforts of modern living. Imagine waking up in a four-poster bed, surrounded by period furnishings, and sipping a hot cup of coffee on a balcony overlooking the verdant hillsides of El Dorado County.

Personalized Experiences Beyond Accommodation

The charm of a bed and breakfast lies in its personalized service. Innkeepers in Placerville take pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. They are locals with deep knowledge of the area, offering insights into the town's best-kept secrets, from hidden hiking trails to the most delightful wineries. Their attention to detail and dedication to guests’ comfort often turn a simple stay into a memorable experience.

Gourmet Breakfasts to Start the Day

One of the highlights of any B&B stay is the breakfast, and Placerville's offerings are no exception. Each morning, guests are treated to homemade meals ranging from hearty farm-to-table fare to delicate pastries, often featuring local ingredients and seasonal fruits. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that delights the senses and prepares you for the day’s adventures.

The Perfect Base for Exploring the Riches of Gold Country

Staying in Placerville puts you at the heart of Gold Country, making it the perfect base for exploring the region's rich history. Visit the Gold Bug Mine and Park, where you can venture into a real gold mine. Afterward, stroll down historic Main Street, lined with antique shops, artisan boutiques, and local eateries that evoke the spirit of the Old West.

A Retreat for Every Season

Whether blanketed in the golden hues of fall, the lush greenery of spring, or the snow-dusted charm of winter, Placerville is a year-round destination. Each season offers a different reason to visit, from summer wine-tasting tours to autumn apple-picking adventures at nearby orchards. A Placerville bed and breakfast provides the ideal setting for relaxation after a day of seasonal festivities.

Romance and Rejuvenation in the Foothills

For couples, the intimate setting of a B&B in Placerville creates the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Many establishments offer special packages, including couple's massages, champagne, and private tours of the surrounding wine country. It's a chance to reconnect and rejuvenate amidst the tranquility of the foothills.

Conclusion: Embracing the Heartfelt Hospitality of Placerville

A stay at a Placerville bed and breakfast offers more than just a place to rest your head. It’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of the region. It's an opportunity to embrace the slower pace of life, indulge in the pleasures of gourmet food, and explore the natural and historical treasures of this quaint California town.

In Placerville, each bed and breakfast has its own personality, reflective of the town's eclectic spirit. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, the B&Bs of Placerville welcome you with open arms and a promise of an unforgettable stay. So pack your bags, set your sights on the Sierra Nevadas, and get ready for a getaway that will linger in your heart long after you've returned home.

[skinnervineyards5]

When it comes to indulging in the world of fine wines, Placerville and El Dorado Hills stand as two remarkable destinations nestled in the heart of California’s wine country. With their unique terroir and rich viticultural history, these areas boast an array of wineries that offer both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts an unforgettable tasting experience. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the finest wineries near Placerville and El Dorado Hills, exploring their flavors, stories, and breathtaking landscapes.