Napa Valley members got out their cowboy boots and best western gear for an old fashioned “finger licking good” BBQ at Saddleback Winery in Oakville. Saddleback Cellars was established in 1982 and the estate has 15 acres planted with Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Grigio. Saddleback chooses to remain a small winery producing 6,000 cases annually to maintain it’s goal of producing the finest hand crafted wines.

Saddleback owner and winemaker Nils Venge was our gracious host for the event. Know as the “King of Cabernet”, Nils has been making Cabernet along with other varietals since the winery’s establishment. Nils philosophy on making wines for Saddleback is that they must reflect the finest qualities that Napa Valley has to offer. The quality of his small production wines has earned him legendary status among winemakers in Napa Valley.

Festivities began at noon with a reception featuring Saddleback Chardonnay, Pino Grigio and Pinot Blanc that were also served during the BBQ luncheon.

Our BBQ luncheon followed featuring Baby Back Ribs, Tri Tip, Potato Salad, BBQ Beans and Caesar Salad served with Saddleback white wines, 2006 Merlot and 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. Nils discussed the characteristics and winemaking techniques of each wine.

It was a grand summer day in Napa Valley and the event was enjoyed by all.