Newton Vineyards is holding an open house Dec. 1 from 1-5 p.m. and will offer some library wines as well as large format wines. Also featured will be a variety of gift packages, books and wine accessories. Light appetizers will be served.Cost is $20 per person, free to wine club members. RSVP to 204-7622. Newton is located at 2555 Madrona Ave., St. Helena.

 

 Domaine Chandon is hosting an afternoon of “Savvy Entertaining” on Sunday, Dec. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. The winery is offering special savings on sparkling and still wines and on a selection of gift items. Erika Lenkert, an author and judge of the Savvy Entertainer contest, will be on hand to offer tips on how to make a party sparkle with little time, effort and money.

Judd’s Hill Winery hosts a Hanukkah Hootenanny on Sunday, Dec. 9, from noon to 4 p.m., at the winery, 2332 Silverado Trail in Napa (between Hardman & Trancas).

 The event is free for Judd’s Hill Wine Club members and $40 for non Wine Club members. There is no charge to join the Wine Club. To sign up, visit www.juddshill.com. People can join the Club on the day of the event. To purchase tickets for the Hootenanny, call the winery at 255-2332.

Guests who bring an unwrapped (in the box) toy with a value of $10 or more or five cans of non-perishable food, will receive a certificate to return to the winery for a free tour and tasting.

Back Room Wines hosts a Rhone Valley wine tasting today, from 5 to 9 p.m. They’re pouring seven wines including Domaine de Fondrèche Rosé, Côtes du Ventoux 2006, Domaine de la Becassonne, Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2006,  Yves Cuilleron Syrah, Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes 2006, Le Clos du Caillou Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2005, Alain JaumeLirac “Clos de Sixte” 2005, Chateau de Montmirail Vacqueyras “Cuvée de l’Ermite” 2005, Les Cailloux Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004. The cost of the tasting is $15. Next Friday, Nov. 30,  taste pinot noirs from California, Oregon and Burgundy, 5 to 9 p.m. The fee is $20. Back Room Wines is at 974 Franklin St, Napa, 226-1378  or (877) 322-2576.

Raymond Vineyards hold its open house and warehouse sale on Dec.1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and offers wine tasting and cheese, with entertainment by Dickens carolers. The winery is located at 849 Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena.