Tasting on the Lawn set for Sept. 19 in Napa Valley

Charles Krug Winery, the Peter Mondavi Family and guests will toast the season’s grape harvest at their annual Tasting on the Lawn, Sunday, September 19, 2009, from 2 to 5 pm.

The winery’s signature tasting event is now in its 58th year, and takes place on the estate’s Great Lawn in the shade of heritage oaks. Founded in 1861, Charles Krug is Napa Valley’s oldest winery and represents the birthplace of the Napa Valley wine industry. The Peter Mondavi Family has invested significantly in preserving the venerable winery.

Visitors will enjoy tastings of all fifteen of Charles Krug’s current ultra-premium wine releases, from Sauvignon Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon, including the winery’s Limited Release and Family Reserve wines. Tastings will be paired with a moveable feast of nibbles selected especially for the wines by Calistoga’s All Seasons Catering. Live music and entertainment will provide a relaxing backdrop for the festivities. Classic rock guitarist Paul Hlebcar and his band will be on hand, as will Tasting favorite, caricaturist Doug Shannon, whose whimsical renderings provide complimentary colorful souvenirs to the afternoon’s attendees.

Members of the Peter Mondavi family will greet guests, sign bottles and answer questions about the renovations recently completed on this historic estate. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy special barrel tastings inside Charles Krug’s elegantly restored 1881 Carriage House.

Cesare and Rosa Mondavi originated Tastings on the Lawn in 1951 as a means to educate consumers about wine. The festive Charles Krug tradition is believed to have been the first wine celebration of its kind, which went on to inspire myriad other wine tasting events.

Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and straw hats are encouraged for the September 19 event. Tickets are available in advance for $30, online (www.charleskrug.com ) or by calling 888.747.5784. Tickets will be $35 at the door. As always, admission for Charles Krug Wine Club members is complimentary, and all visitors will receive a 20 percent discount on wine purchases made that day.