May 23, 2006 > Fine wines, fine music, fine times

by Steve Warga

As the warmth of summer days fades into cooling evening breezes, pleasant times with wine, food and song return once more to the great outdoors. Local wineries have published their schedules of concerts open to all. Whether you're an oenophile or one of many who don't yet know the fancy word for lovers of wine, check out the variety of fine wines, fine music and fine times awaiting your pleasure.

Tesla Vintners, near Livermore isn't even waiting for summer's first day. Their "Playin' On The Patio - Season II" kicks off Friday, May 26 with local folk music artist, Roger Kardinal, Bay Area jazz and blues performer, Sue Lukito and the return of the "legendary" Singing Winemaker. After hearing from many of last year's attendees, Tesla moved their Friday and Saturday schedules back to 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Gimanelli's will cater the Friday events while Saturdays will feature treats from Cassandra's; both are Pleasanton-based deli-caterers. Along with the food, a wide variety of wines can be purchased by the bottle or by the glass. There is no charge for the concerts.

Sundays will be favored by concerts and libations at Niles Canyon neighbors (on Palomares Rd), Chouinard Vineyards and Westover Winery. Chiounard will host concerts June 18 through August 27, with an emphasis on dance-type music. Tom Rigney and Flambeau will fire up their Cajun vibes in the first concert of the summer. All events begin at 4:30 p.m. Bring your own gourmet picnic and add a Chouinard's wine or two available for purchase. There is a $35 charge per vehicle and only by reservation. No outside alcoholic beverages.

Westover Winery will fill the air with Cajun music on June 11, Funk, Soul and Rock n' Roll on July 16 and  present "Winestock" on August 13. Bill Westover invites people to "load up your vehicle (no 40 passenger buses please!), bring a picnic dinner, and join us for a late afternoon / early evening of great music, good friendship and outstanding wine." Cost is minimal since entry charge is by the "car load" plus any wines purchased. All concerts will take place at the winery and will be from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. (except for the August event - 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The schedule of shows at Tesla Vinters is: