We have unbiased reaction to Crane’s Cuvee from my class this weekend at Lava cap. The general consensus: yum. It might have helped that Ed was there itching the wine, but it is a big, hearty mouthful of soft fruit. What’s not to love?

And FYI, the next class will be food-and-wine pairings on Nov. 3

I want to put in a good word for Trailfest on Saturday, which supports Project Ride, when of the truly heartwarming programs in the region. (It gets kids with disabilities around and up on horses and it’ll make you weep to see the joy in some of those kids.) The event Saturday has great food, wine and a chef’s challenge. I’m one of the judges and a bunch of the guys, like Danny Origel from Roxy and Billy Ngo from Kru, are pals, so not only do I get to eat well, I get to lose some friends.

Also, went to Renwood Winery’s event at the end of last week showing off their very cool new tasting room and patio and all kinds of stuff. They will be another step up for our foothills and Amador County in particular. Besides the wine tasting -- they’re becoming a very big deal in the Zinfandel – they have Monday Night Football gatherings, Thursday evening tapas, Saturday night feats and Sunday Wine Country breakfasts. Plus – yup, another self-promotion plug – I’ll be teaching classes there soon.