Private estate weddings are beautiful, and this one being at a vineyard residence was exceptional.  This property has been in the family now for the second decade.  The vines were first planted in 1997, and in 2001 they won the double blind taste test in San Francisco. Chateau Margene Vineyard has since propelled its way into becoming an ultra-premium vineyard.  The entire family consists of some of the sweetest, most  down-to-earth, inspiring and creatively driven individuals you will meet.  They are experts at their craft, and really set the bar for a tasting experience. I’ve been inspired and have learned a lot from them over the last few years.

A winemaker and his beloved wife would tie the knot on this beautiful day.

Backing up many months, who would have known that one winter day, sweet Jana, a visiting school teacher, would wander into their tasting room one afternoon, only to meet Chris, the man of her dreams.  That fateful decision that would lead them to this beautiful wedding day.

This day was an incredible fall day with a beautiful palate of the colors of autumn leaves in the vineyard.  Each set of vines turn stunning colors at different points and drop their leaves at different times.  The Merlot was first to turn golden, and that’s where we chose to have their “first look”.  We selected a peaceful spot among the ancient oaks dotting the west side of their property, one of Chris’s favorite spots.

The food reminded me of a thanksgiving feast mixed with a fall Bavarian cuisine.  So delicious and selected with the perfect seasonal ingredients. Jana chose an elegant white theme with the exception of her ingenious guest gifts, the cabernet sauvignon jam.  Topping that was the wine which paired beautifully.  They chose their 07 Ciello Rosso, the 08 Reserve Pinot Noir, and the flagship wine, their 2007 Beau Melange, which is french for beautiful blend.  It’s a bordeaux style wine which paired perfectly with their main course.

Chris & Jana just had their premier release image viewing in our studio lounge, and it was a pleasure to relive the joys and vows they shared together on that day. Enjoy this collection.