David Ramey’s 2013 Pedregal Vineyard Ramey cabernet sauvignon was one of the best wines in the Press Democrat 10 year cabernet tasting. (John Burgess/The Press Democrat)

Top 100 Wines: Meet & Greet David Ramey

He’s produced wine at Simi, Matanzas Creek and Chalk Hill wineries, and Dominus and Rudd estates, all of which benefited from his experienced gained at the Moueix family’s famed Château Pétrus in Bordeaux, France. Yet David Ramey found his final winemaking home in Healdsburg, with Ramey Wine Cellars, where he produces spectacular Chardonnays from Russian […]
For 81 years, Mary Ferrario has faithfully visited her brother, Frankie Magliotto, at Sonoma Developmental Center. Frankie, a year older than Mary, was committed in 1934 to what was then known as Sonoma State Home. (Photo by Erik Castro)

A World Apart – Sonoma Development Center

As the state plans to close the 124-year-old Sonoma Developmental Center, families of the 392 residents wonder what closure will mean for their loved ones.

Fish and Wildlife warden Don Powers watches abalone divers from a bluff on the Mendocino Coast near Little River. (Photos by Christopher Chung)

In Pursuit of Abalone Poachers

Along the North Coast, the state’s attempt to protect the red abalone fishery takes a bit of undercover work.

(photo by John Burgess)

Shave and a Haircut

A former Petaluma bartender trades her cocktail shaker for a pair of clippers.

Dustin Valette, owner/chef of Valette in Healdsburg. (photos by Chris Hardy)

Back to His Roots

Dustin Valette opens his namesake eatery in a Healdsburg building once owned by his great-granddad.

Fraser Ross pours a beer for the Friday crowd at Fogbelt Brewing Company. (Conner Jay)

Beer Country: Hot Kids on the Block

A new crop of up-and-comers is shaking up the local brewing scene with gutsy, adventurous offerings to quench just about any thirst.