WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA—Thanks to all of you wine travelers who made it out to the Bristol Farms market at 9039 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, CA on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, to talk about their favorite California tasting rooms. I loved meeting you and it was great to compare notes!

The event was called “Meet The Experts” and featured chefs plus product and food company representatives. Of course, there was SO much food to be tasted: fresh salmon and halibut, sushi prepared on the spot, delicious chocolate tidbits, fresh pasta with marinara sauce, Yakult probiotic beverages (which I otherwise would never have had the chance to try!), and lots more.

The event developed into a party atmosphere. As if to pay homage to the crowded streets of L.A. — at one point, enthusiastic shoppers inside the store experienced shopping cart gridlock. It was a real hoot!

Invited to join me for the event was Jennifer Rheuban (shown below) who works for J Vineyards & Winery of Healdsburg, CA. Of course, J Vineyards & Winery is featured in the new Fifth Edition of The California Directory of Fine Wineries. Jennifer brought some luscious Pinot as well as bottles of a shimmering cool pink Brut Rosé and Chardonnay for visitors to taste. Yes, wine tasting is allowed in this particular Bristol Farms store.

I’m a BIG fan of J. They produce some fantastic Russian River Valley Pinot Noir as well as some of California’s finest sparkling wine. Hence, I was thrilled that they were able to join me.

I was happy to sign books for all you wonderful folks who braved the Southern California sunshine to come out to the confluence of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.

Phyllis Chase, M.F.T. is pictured above with the two books she had me sign. If this accomplished Marriage and Family Therapist looks familiar to you, it’s because she has appeared on Dr. Phil and is also the host of “Shrink Rap” on KCSN 88.5 FM in Los Angeles.

Denise from Hollywood had me sign a book as a birthday gift to her wine-loving boyfriend. She returned shortly after this photo was taken and asked for another copy which I signed to her dear friends John and Janeen.

Thank you Denise and all the other super people who took the time to visit with me during the event.