Friday, December 10, 2010

Kathy does it again! Gift giving made easy @ Ironstone!

 With Christmas weeks away and New Years close on its heels, it is time to check out Kathy B's stunning gift baskets.

Don't wait to the last minute, or if you do, no better place to do your shopping up to 3:00 PM on Christmas Eve than Ironstone!

Kathy B's workshop has been as busy as Santa's! Creating her masterpieces just for you and yours.  Each basket is created with a specific theme in mind and clearly captures Kathy's inspiration.  Over the years, Kathy has put together some spectacular baskets for me for many different occassions. All have received raves from not only the recipient, but anyone who is lucky enough to see the basket before we all jump in to enjoy the treasures inside.

The photos here depict her New Years or Special Celebration Gift basket with Ironstone's very own version of champagne with colorful glasses and special treats galore.  Just below is her "lets eat" basket, full of tasty treats and Ironstone's exciting Obsession wine.  The bottom photo is what I call the "Lets Party!" basket featuring our local O'Gomezy Salsa, one of my personal favorites, with local olives and more.

If you have someone special you want to surprise with either a fun or elegant treasure, come by and take a look at Kathy B's creations.  You will surely find the special one that is here, waiting for you now!

Check out the slideshow here in the blog for images of more of Kathy's great basket selections.  If you don't see what you are looking for, or prefer a massive knock em out basket, just give Kathy a call. Let her do her magic for you!

Friday, December 3, 2010

Linda Abernathy, Bead Weaver


This is just a small sampling of Linda Abernathy's work.  Stunning and detailed, it is amazing just watching her work those tiny beads.  I've put a slide show to the right. It is well worth the time to stop and look.  Even more so to come by and see her live.  As well as a very talented lady, Linda is also one of the most charming artists you will ever meet.  Hailing from the Bay Area, Linda has family throughout the Gold Country which is how we are graced with her company here at Ironstone's Heritage Museum.  We really love her visits. 
If you are a designer or just getting started with beadwork, come by and Linda will provide you with great pointers and suggestions on techniques and tools of the trade.  She has been doing this longer than the current beading fad began.  As a floral designer in one of her past lives, Linda if full of creativity.  Ever visit she delights us with a new fresh flower arrangement that is worth the stop itself! 

Linda will be her the rest of today and Saturday.  Do stop by and say hello.

Marble Game boards back! Only $60. Limited quantity. Call now... on Twitpic

Marble Game boards back! Only $60. Limited quantity. Call now... on Twitpic

These are going fast! Call to reserve one for yourself or your favorite family for Christmas! While supply lasts... 209 728 1251 ext #45

She's Back! Wow! on Twitpic

She's Back! Wow! on Twitpic

Linda Abernathy is back at Ironstone today and Saturday. Check out her jewelry for the bottle! Taking a nice bottle of wine to that party? Dress it up! Pick up one of Linda's elegant pieces of jewelry for the bottle.

Then, take care of yourself with one of her stunning beaded pieces. Earrings, bracelets and necklaces. LInda also does custom work. Come meet her and see how she does her magic.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Bead Weaver Linda Abernathy demonstrating her art

Artist Linda Abernathy is hard at work, creating even more new designs today & Sunday at Ironstone's Heritage Museum.  Such intricate beadwork, it is fascinating to watch as each piece slowly grows into a beautiful design.

Using seed beads, coral and other natural stones, Linda's pieces have a unique quality of individuality.


Bead Weaver Linda Abernathy demos today & Sunday @ Ironst... on Twitpic

Ironstone Museum is excited to have Bead Weaver & Artist Linda Abernathy with us today and Sunday. Come see Linda working her magic with her stunning bead jewelry/art. Stay tuned for more images.
http://www.twitpic.com/3armoh

Friday, November 26, 2010

Marble Game boards back! Only $60. Limited quantity. Call now... on Twitpic

Marble Game boards back! Only $60. Limited quantity. Call now... on Twitpic

First day with the Marble Game Boards and they are going fast! These will be gone by Christmas. If you are interested, please call now to reserve yours! Limited to stock on hand. Busy day for Games today!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Sounds of the Season

Tis that time of year again! "Sounds of the Season - A Family Affair" is back at Ironstone November 27th.  This years theme is a Country Family Get together.  I had the pleasure of participating last year with the Cowboy Country Theme. What a fun evening!  Sounds of the Season is a live show, family oriented with no limit to join in and sing along if you like.  It truly is an event you can take the whole family to.   We had little ones dancing to the songs up front with the musicans last year. They were so cute and having so much fun!  After the show is a wonderful supper.  Ironstone does require reservations so Chef James prepares enough food! So do make your reservations now, 209-728-1251 ext. 11. Adults are $35. 12 & Under, $25 for both the show and supper!  It is a wonderful way to get into the warm and fuzzy family holiday spirit, have a great meal and a good time as well. Join us!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Up and Running! Pottery & Jewelry Oh My!

 Up and running! Didn't take June long to put together a beautiful display of her pottery and jewelry. June & Bill Vaughn potter is a must see. Come by and take a look before they all find new homes!

On a more serious note, I was able to model one of the jewelry pieces on Wednesday. The attention it drew was almost embarrasing.  I was first drawn to June's pottery as I mentioned in an earlier post, but, wearing this piece of jewelry and wearable art raised my level of awareness to the complexity of their designs beyond the pottery. As I showed the details and explained the craftsmanship to our Museum guests, the piece began to take on a life of its own. Complex, stunning and extremely artful, I ended up naming the piece as if it were quite alive. And it was for me for that time I had the honor of wearing it. It was like a partnership between us.  I became a vehicle for the piece to move and live as it was intended to.  Wierd? Maybe, maybe not.  You must be the judge.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

The Perfect Union of two Creative Minds in Pottery

We are delighted to welcome Artists Bill & June Vaughn to Ironstone's Heritage Museum.  I "discovered" June and her breathtaking art at a small local fundraising event in Douglas Flat featuring some of my favorite artists at the old Johnson Home, now called Milliafori. A great vacation rental by the way! Here is the link if you would like to check it out. Used by many top notch artists for their painting clinics and classes as well.  Right next to the historic Douglas Flat Schoolhouse.  http://www.vrbo.com/229194
OK, I have regressed!  Back to my discovery, June Vaughn. Aside from being one of the most charming people I have met in a while, June is talented. Very talented. A local artist hailing from Sonora, June and her husband Bill have never exhibited locally, or at least not much. Focused on the larger more predectable art markets like Camel, this is a treat for us to have them at Ironstone. Their own back yard, so to speak.  The piece that drew me to June's booth was a stunning platter, off white with wild black lines weaving in and out, sharp and fuzzy, so much like the manner in which I like to doodle. Yes, we all do don't we?  Anyway, in speaking to June, these interesting black lines were accomplished by using horse hairs during the firing. Yes, just like the ones we ride up here in Murphys. We love them!  And this pottery just brings it all home.  And yes, the design work is so intricate it captivates you for such a long time... had to see more!  And that brings us to these photos of June setting up her work here at Ironstone Heritage Museum for all to see and enjoy.

To better describe the Vaughn's work in June & Bill's words...
"The Vaughn's ceramic work has transcended more than four decades. The heart and soul of the art arises from the crucial role that both husband and wife play in the formation of the pieces, with Bill throwing inventive shapes and June carving and decorating in a tribal art-influenced style.  Their work also incorporates mixed media including stones, shells, metal, feathers, and found objects.  Over the years, their style has evolved from functional stonework to one-of-a-kind high art designs, and is currently collected internationally. Each final piece is the perfect union of two creative minds."
  Come see for yourself. 



Friday, October 22, 2010

Independence Hall Quilters Oct. 22, 23 & 24 @ Ironstone

This weekend Ironstone Vineyards is delighted to have back with us the Independence Hall Quilters. Labeled the Mountain Heirloom Quilt Faire XXXIII, this talented group of ladies have taken over Ironstone's large Alhambra Music Room and filled it with quilts, wall hangings, wearable art, dolls, needle art and more.  There are several stunning club quilts available for sale for only $450.00 each as well as a quilt titled "Mountain Home" available all as a raffle prize.  Elsewhere throughout the facility are vendors offering anything and everything one can image that relates to quilts, quiltmaking and more.  There is a boutique, demonstrations, door prizes, a country store and vendor booths. 

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Watercolor by Artist Shona Macomber

In celebration of this weekend's Mountain Heirloom Quilt Faire XXXIII, Artist Shona Macomber brings us a beautiful watercolor titled "Patches of Memories".    Forgive my little camera and its light reflections, but I just had to show you how special this piece is.       Shona is a very talented watercolorist who paints for the love of the process.  In Shona's words:                                              "I paint because I love Process. Growing gardens from seed, breathing new life into living spaces, watching seasons change. Life is learning, growth, and renewal through process. My paintings illustrate this journey, much of the time in a whimsical way. No matter how difficult, or dark, or even hopeless a life-experience may appear to be, its touch can work good, even bring beauty. I am at peace.  I usually choose watercolor to share my observations. Painting in watercolor is a process in itself, following the flow of fluid pigment on paper, using tight control or giving it freedonw bloom. As you may guess, it is the letting go og control that seems to bring the most fulfillment and resulting beauty.   I have benefited from the watercolor instruction of Vernon Nye and Judi Betts.  A lifetime of study, teaching, and practive have taught me to paint; the Creator God has taught me to see."   




Shona's painting is valued at $700.00 and is available for purchase. Contact us here at Ironstone Museum or email cgomez@ironstonevineyards.com if you are interested or want more information.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Mark Twain Festival / Mark Twain Autobiography


A most outstanding weekend... The 2010 Mark Twain's Motherlode Festival. Kicking off the event was the production of "Sam & Laura" by the Best Selling author, Ron Powers at the Bret Harte Theater Friday night.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Cleverwolf Entertainment on location

We had a great visit from CleverWolf Entertainment Tuesday for filiming of the Crystalline Gold specimen as well as some of our more interesting natural nuggets. Jeremy Maupin, director is seen in the photo at the right, adjusting the big cameras for a nice shot or Ironstone's Crystalline Gold Specimen. The shoot was done for the Living Well network, CBS Southern California. Not sure if we will see it when it comes out in January up North, but, hoping to get a video on line that we can share with you.
Below, you see the closeups being taken of our unusual Gold Bearing Ironstone natural nuggets. We have several beautiful pieces that are currently being offered at a 15% discount.  
To the right is our Conrad taking a group shot of Jeremy Maupin, Stacey Bosworth and photographer "Shane" inside the vault with the gold piece in the background.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Call to Artists! Spring Obsession 2011!

2010 Theme Division Winner
Calling all artists! Time to put that paint to canvas or thread to the needle, or pen into the ink, or whatever your favorite medium is... it is that time again! Ironstone's Spring Obsession Art Show & Competition!

SEE BELOW FOR ENTRY FORMS!!

It is hard to believe that the Summer Concert Series is over, fall is here and the perspectus for the Spring Obsession Art Show is ready to go out to our great and talented artists!

I have to admit, this is one of my favorite events here at Ironstone.  The annual Spring Obsession Art Show, Sale & Competition..... 

Friday, October 8, 2010

Artist Diana Eppler's work on display now thru Nov. 17

Ironstone's Galleria is celebrating a new art exhibit of paintings by artist Diana Eppler. Diana's work will be on display in our main Galleria, just below the tasting room, Wednesday through Sundays from 10 to 5. 
As Diana explains...

“The foothills are a wonderful area for artists. The landscape choices are endless and all within a morning’s drive. My painting subjects are varied as that is my nature. I will probably be perpetually in some period of transition with my art which, I hope, is a good thing. I try to work towards a melding of classical, contemporary and my own style; always striving to share with the viewer a means of expression which is representational without being literal or prosaic.

I used to worry where was I going with my art? Was I a colorist, tonalist, impressionist, plein air or studio painter? I now know my art leads me. Each piece is individual and dictates how it should be painted. First comes what I feel, then what I see.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Warehouse Sale Oct. 23 & 24

Fall warehouse sale set!  Head out to Ironstone Saturday, Oct. 23 from 10:oo to 4:00 or Sunday, Oct. 24 from 10:00 to 2:00 for outstanding deals on cases of wine!  It is best to come early as many of the offerings are in short supply to begin with.  We have a few of our local regulars that like to come out very early that actually help the staff set up so they can be the first in line!  Not actually encouraged, but, a little extra help always comes in handy. 
Here is a photo of some of last years early birds! It was a beautiful day as we expect this year to be as well.  Either way, the sale is ON!  Make your list now of all those holiday parties you like to take a bottle of wine to, the neighbors you like to drop a gift basket off at the front door, the family that drops by to share some holiday spirit with... This is your chance to not break the bank and take care of all of the above a incredable prices... See you on the 24th!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Mark Twain Motherlode Festival

Ironstone is one of many sponsors for the upcoming Mark Twain Motherlode Festival in Angels Camp, October 15, 16 & 17.   Check out the photo of his residence on Jackass Hill below....

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Concours d'Elegance 2010

What an exciting day Saturday was.  Mind you, I am not all that much of a big auto fanatic other than for transportation and hauling. Go figure, I drive a truck.  But, Saturday actually proved to be an exciting day.  Looking at all those cars, trucks, boats & cycles brought back such great memories of years past.  Camping trips as a kid with an old falcon with a matching trailer, the two restored Model A's my dad drove us around in the rumble seat, the mustang convertable I drove through High School until Dad realized how valuable it was... still in the family, too...
Car club trips, gathering at a friends or family homes to admire the new vehicle, yeah I even remember someone with an Edsel! Family members attempting to restore an old Chris Craft, succeeding later in life with a historic motorcycle... guess you really don't have to be a classic car fanatic to really enjoy a classic car show.  I certainly did and on so many different levels.

This year too brought out 11 outstanding Plein Aire Artists that painted throughout the facility during the show.  They had soo much to chose from, some focused on a single scene throughout the day, while others would sketch or paint a while, then move on to another area and more opportunities.  They were all enjoying the crowds as much as the crowds seem to enjoy them. Lots of questions, commendations and a few sales as well.  You can see their biographies below..

Again this year, Ironstone's Volunteer Team came through for the Concours Foundation with flying colors. All prompt, friendly and more than helpful to all the guests attending this year.  I can't say enough in praise for this wonderful and fun group of people.  Why, one of our volunteer couples were even Best of Class winners with their flashy looking classic jag.  Very hot & sleek looking machine that one! Kudos to them all!

A great thank you to Michele's wonderful son for taking all those great photos and Artist Sonny Sorensen!

Friday, September 24, 2010

Artists painting on site Saturday...a Must see!

I must say, having such great plein aire artists painting on site for the Concours d'Elegance Saturday is such a joy and long time coming.  This is the first year artists have been invited to participate. I was able to hang completed paintings in the Galleria that will be on display through Tuesday, October 5th. So do take the time to come by and check out some spectacular paintings!  I have listed each artists biography to the right. So do take a look and see who all is joining us... love to see you here. The Concours is such a great charity event too!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Plein Aire Painters at Ironstone this Saturday!

The Ironstone Concours d'Elegance has added a new treat this year.  Eleven Plain Aire artists will be on site all day Saturday, Sept. 25th. painting the elegant classic autos, motorcycles, boats, 50's tear drop trailers, Shady Ladies in costume as well as the 4-H projects and animals.  This marks the first year artists have been invited on site during the event itself.  Long time coming if you ask me! 

Friday, we will be hanging representative art from the participant painters in the Ironstone Gallerias where they will remain on display for the following week.  These pieces will be available for sale as well, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Foundation's great works with the California 4-H scholarship foundation, the FFA scholarship fund and the California State Fair Scholarship fund.  All great causes to support our young people.

I will post a little slide show of pieces as images come available.  One sample here,
"Road Dreams" by Suzanne D'Arcy, is just one of many fantastic paintings you will see not only completed, but, works in progress by artists Vienna Watkins-Colodzin, Vickie Chew, Suzanne D'Arcy, Kathleen Dunphy, Dee Helzer, Rick Ingraham, Ray Mesgarzadeh, Tony Pooler, Sunny Sorensen, Henrietta Sparkman and Irene Taylor.  I will post bios as they come in...

Come on out to the Concours Saturday, meet the artists and see how they put these pieces together. 

Watching the creative process is always such a joy.  What the artists sees that catches our eyes is always fascinating as the imagry grows out of the canvas...

Come see for yourself... gates open at 10:00 AM till 4:00 PM.  Cost is $20.00 per person or $35.00 per family.  Plenty of food & beverage concessions as well as great food at the Ironstone Tasting Room Deli. 

Stop by the Museum and say Hi!  This is also the last weekend for the WWII exhibit, if you haven't seen it yet!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Artists Patricia Cherry & Carol Goff represented at Ironstone Gallerias

Artists Patricia Cherry and Carol Goff are currently displaying original paintings in Ironstone's Gallerias.  Complete Bios are located at the lower section of this Blog along with slideshow of works on display.  Do come and take a look at these beautiful paintings. With a wide range of subject matter and completely different styles, Cherry & Goff present a wonderful window to all tastes in art.  Now through September 22nd.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Artists, Chris Barhnart & Nanette Oleson on exhibit through Aug. 11

Artists Chris Barnhart and Nanette Oleson are on exhibit at Ironstone through August 11th. Check  out the biography and slideshow below ...

"Pissarro in the Field"

The second of the two Spalt Guitars is named       "Pissarro in the Field". Breathtaking piece, in the words of Artist Paul Schmidt...
"Lucien Pissarro, son of Camile Pissarro - well known French impressionst painter often called the "father of impressionism" began as a painter but during the 1880's became enthusiastic about woodcuts and wood engravings. (Embedded in the redwood burl of this outstanding electric guitar) this five - color woodcut from 1897 (catalogued in Fern - #92) was entitled variously "In the Field" or "Gold Cloud". The poetry of this astounding print spoken through its language of colours and composition thrilled me immediately upon viewing it.  The gold was reminiscent of Tiffany, and the muted glow was consistent with so many of the other works of art l'd selected. Mango, koa, walnut, redwood burl, poplar, and Macassar ebony (bridge) comprise the woods selected to enliven this instrument, along with the silver, pearl, abalone, Catalin knobs and bone switch. The son-gold yellow orange pickups mirror the character of the lithograph, which weds golds, greens, blues, yellows and browns to form its disposition.  The pearl inlay shaped into gynkgo leaves-inspired-kites sweeps through the body and into the neck for a graceful and strident theme that compliments the stirring quietude of the art.  Bountiful, bold, gentle, and startling in its beauty."

Friday, June 18, 2010

Electrifying Electric Guitars!

"Mucha Summer" by Michael Spalt

Wow, all I can say about this incredable piece of art. I am not a guitar player, but you don't have to be to appreciate these beauties, two of which are here on display in Ironstone's Heritage Museum for an undisclosed period of time.

One of 13 from Michael's "The Nouveau Series Guitars", "Mucha Summer" focuses on the original Mucha "Summer" lithograph which is suspended over gold-leaf and festooned with pearl. This guitar features mother-of-pearl and abalone cat tails flowing through the figured Brazilian rosewood. A stylized dragonfly lights on the Indian rosewood pahntom soundhole with its translucent wings revealing the abalone cat-tail stem beneath.  The glass exhibits a moonlit soft rainbow of strong orange, purple, blue, green, pink, yellow, amber - all luminescent huse floating over the gold-leaf, inspired by the lithograph both in actual colour and mood of the peaceful-warmed summer moment. The earthiness of the Brazilian rosewood is reflected in the colour of the bridge pickup while the water motil is captured by the glass and the blue neck pickup.  The Catalin knobs and resin switch are set in myrtle burl neighboring the Macassar ebony bridge.

These are must see to believe masterpieces.. and the sound spectacular as well!

Friday, May 28, 2010

Ironstone wishes all a peaceful Memorial Weekend

We at Ironstone wish all of you a peaceful and reflective Memorial Weekend. Remember those who have given their lives and futures for us. As we celebrate this weekend, remember those still in the trenches. Send them your best wishes, your thanks and your goodwill as they struggle against odds some of us will never have to comprehend, thanks to their sacrifices.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Last days of May... Lots of new beginnings

Finally after much planning, Ironstone's Heritage Museum WWII exhibit is Open!  Titled, WWII A Small Window, this exhibit portrays small windows into WWII. Weapons used, treasures carried, what they wore and what they thought, just small windows into WWII. This exhibit will run through August.  Check out the slide show to the right.

Also opening this last week, Our Main Galleria presents the surrealist paintings of Melinda Englebrecht.  These very powerful and emotional paintings represent the beauty of the odd juxtapositions to every life and every happening.  Stop by if you have an opportunity. These paintings are very beautiful.

Passport weekend was a beautiful weekend with passport holders catching the Gold Fever, panning with Mario on the creek.  Need I say more!

We are now gearing up for our first concert June 6th. Volunteers will be contacted next week with assignments and all are ready to rock and roll! Are you? Check out the bands on their official websites just to the right of this column. I heard a few new ones myself!  What a Great Concert Season this year!  Hope to see you all here.  Phone is ringing and a bus pulled up.. Gotta go!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Museum Update!

Spring Art show coming down next week. Sad days at Ironstone. The walls always look so forlorn the weeks after Spring Show goes away. If you have not seen the show yet, time is running out!

Currently the 2010 Galleria schedule is in the planning stages and will be released upon complete confirmation of all artists. It looks like a great summer line up so stay tuned!

A new WWII exhibit will be opening May 15th here in the Heritage Museum. Artifacts are coming in daily. There are spectacular personel affects as well as rare rifles and other wartime articles.  Rifles representing each of the involved countries are in pristine condition dispite their age, several quite rare collector specimens.

Included in one of the treasure boxes we discovered rare items given to Japanese soldiers by family members to ward off evil spirits and wish them good luck, fans & good luch belts signed by family members and friends.  There is a rare SS field flag as well as one small cap pin worn by one of the first SS radio troops to enter Paris, still on the original field cap. 

Doing the research on these pieces as they come in has been quite a learning experience for all of us here in the Museum.  We hope you will enjoy the display as much as we are having putting it together.

We will keep you updated as we get closer and more items come in...

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Found Again!

OK, we are back on line. Camera hiding in lost & found taking a break!

Great week with the final dates set for the 2010 Ironstone Vineyards Concert Schedule! It is one exciting summer!  Keep an eye for entertainers links to the right.  For all interested in our Volunteer program, Volunteer pre-season meeting scheduled for Friday eve. 5:30 PM April 30th.  If you are interested in the Ironstone Volunteer Program, this meeting is a must do.  Get the scoop. Its a lot of work, but, a great team of Volunteers to work with.

The 2010 Concours d'Elegance, held September 25th. is opening the event to artists for 2010.  If you are a painter interested in painting on site during this spectacular classic car show, contact Chris Gomez at cgomez@ironstonevineyards.com. The exposure is tremendous and the autos even more so. Great opportunity to paint those exotics rarely seen out and about.  If you would like more info on the event check out their fun website.   http://www.ironstonefoundation.org/

If you haven't seen the Benitoite display, better hurry!  It will be leaving us towards the end of April. Owner Brett Keller will be entering this exhibit at the National Gem & Mineral Show in Las Vegas later this summer.

Incoming!  May 15th is our deadline to have up and running our summer special exhibit, WWII. The focus of the exhibit is still pending the final details of what will be coming in.  To date, I have notification that we will have helmets from each of the participating countries, a rare SS Waffen field flag & cap with a rare Paris pin.  There will be around 4 - 6 original rifles from various armies along with a SS dress dagger. And so much more!  I hope to obtain photos of some of the pieces prior to the exhibit. So, stay tuned in case I get early access.

The Ironstone Main Galleria will see various one person exhibits this summer. As soon as all artists are finalized, the schedule will be posted here.  In the meantime, ever changing bios of the 2010 Spring Art Show artists will be located at the lower part of this blog. Keep checking for updates.

Say Good Night!  "Good Night!"

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Lost without my camera!

Can't believe how a lost in action camera can totally throw one off kelter!  Twitter has suffered and our poor blog came to a horrifying standstill! How can a digital camera cause speechlessness?  And this is someone who owned the "first camera" within the last 10 years. Mind you, the past was recorded with pen and sketchbooks, but, those don't upload as quickly or efficiently.  But, thanks to the saving grace of Carolyn! We are back on board, back in line and ready to go.

Did you notice the Mark Twain Quotes on the bottom of the blog? You should. Here is one man that should be listened to. 2010 marks Mark Twains 175th birth anniversary AND his 100th death anniversary.  A year to listen and celebrate one of our great American writters and humorists.  The Calaveras County Jumping Frog Jubilee has taken up our great fellow as the Theme for this years Fair, Mark Twain's Wit & Wisdom, for he excelled at both!  We actually have the book, "Mark Twain: his words, wit and wisdom" here in the Museum for sale. I took it home to browse through. There are over 1,800 quotes. He is funny, full of satire and you can probably find one of his quotes that will totally insult you. 

If you haven't been out to the winery lately, you had better hurry if you want to see the brilliant colors of spring!  If Mother Nature keeps it warm too long, the incredable barrels of tulips will rise, explode their colors and fall to the ground, soon!  Check out http://ironstonegardens.blogspot.com/ for the full scoop and photos of what is out there! These are just a few taken WITH THE CAMERA THANK YOU CAROLYN! 


Also updating the Artists Bios below. Check them out. Very interesting and tallented people in this years Spring Obsession Art Show...

And for those of you not so garden enclined.... may I present Cowboy Bob's Flowers!

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Phil Linhares and Scott Shields Complete the Judging of Ironstone's 13th Annual Spring Obsession Art Show

Ironstone Vineyards is proud to announce that judging for the 13th Annual Spring Obsession Art Show was completed by Oakland Museum's Chief Curator of Art, Phil Linhares and Crocker Art Gallery's Director & Chief Curator, Scott Shields.  Both Phil and Scott joined artists, buyers, gallery owners and art lovers at the Artist Reception, Saturday, March 6th at Ironstone Vineyards for a memorable evening of fantastic food and wine pairings presented by Executive Chef James Lehman, piano entertainment by David Swart and a wonderful introduction by Ironstone Owners, John & Gail Kautz.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Friday, February 19, 2010

Open Division Spring Obsession Art Show & Competition

With over 258 paintings submitted for consideration in Ironstone's 13th Annual Spring Obsession Art Show, this years panels had a very difficult time!

Sunday, February 14, 2010

President's Weekend at Ironstone

Dahlynn & Ken McKowen, co-authors of the new "Wine-Oh! Guide to California's Sierra Wine region" were here Saturday to sign copies of the great book as well as participate in a fun and very entertaining cooking demo with our very own Chef James.  Chef James has the ability to not only entertain and educate the audience, but make them feel very much a part of what he is doing.  Without missing a step, Chef James was able to make fresh pasta dough, brown meat, knead the dough, mix the sauce, cut the dough into a nice flat pasta, and put it all together with hands and flour flying everywhere.  Tasting his masterpiece was the icing on the cake, so to speak.  This all took no time at all! Check out the slide show to the right...


Meanwhile up in the tasting room, Carla tasted guests from a barrel of 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon. Even though still not quite ready, this wine is showing very well.  All around thumbs up from guests.



Just outside, Garden King Larry placed a few daffodils at the BBQ table.  Great Ribs, Yummy!







Warehouse sale downstairs was hopp'n all day!  Incredable deals on some great wines. Stock up time with cases flying out the door. The Ironstone Team was having a great time with our regulars who come out for every sale.  Lots of new guests with all the wineries offering specials for CWA glass holders. With the sun shinning and lots of people, we had a great time at Ironstone this weekend.  We are gearing up for a wild March!  Take a look at the Ironstone website at http://www.ironstonevineyards.com/ for all the activities, it is wild!  See you at Ironstone! 

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Come and Gone! Sorry you missed them...

Dahlynn & Ken McKowen, authors of the new

The Wine-OH! Guide to California's Sierra Foothills


This is one of most complete and up to date guides I have seen to date.
I even discovered information about our own area I hadn't realized before.
We do have the book in stock now if you don't want to wait till February 13th.
to read it!  Just bring it back in for the authors signatures. 
Note: Dahlynn & Ken have also co authored several of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Ironstone's 13th Annual Spring Obsession Art Show, Competition & Sale is looking to be one of the best exhibits on record. Open Division entries are arriving daily from throughout the United States. Theme Division Accepted Originals are arriving this weekend. Excited is not a powerful enough term to describe how I feel!

Monday, January 11, 2010

Benitoite Gem Display


Collector Brett Keller works on his display of Benitoite for Ironstone's Heritage Museum.  Scheduled to be on display through March 7th., this collection of rare and unique Benitoite gems and crystalls is beautiful.  The rich blue hues found in these formations are breath taking.

Brett has won numerous awards with this display and has qualified for the National Show later this year.  He hopes to take home another prize for this beautiful collection. 

Come see it and cheer Brett on.  If you aren't sure what Benitoite is, lets start with the "official Gemstone of California".  And what a more appropriate place for this display than next to the "official Mineral of California"... GOLD! and the 44tlb specimen!

Gem quality Benitoite is found in only one mine in the world approximately 20 miles north of Colinga, CA. in an area now called the Clear Creek Recreational Area.  It was first discovered here in 1907 by James Marshall Couch.  These first blue crystals were thought to be Sapphire or Spinel, but their softness, with a Mohs hardness of only 6.5 made them much too soft for either of those stones.  It was University of California at Berkeley Professor George Louderbach who first identified this gem as a new mineral and named it Benitoite due to its origin in the headwaters of the San Benito River. 

Considered one of the ten rarest gemstones in the world, Benitoite is enormously popular among mineral collectors for its beauty and rarity.  With the mine now closed and mosted played out, this collection is even more rare and most certainly worth a visit to see for yourself.  Slide show coming soon.