NOV
HARVEST ISSUE
AFTER DINNER ROUTINES
FAMILY FEAST
PREP & WINES
THANKSGIVING n o i t a r i p s n I e l b Ta
HOMES BUILT FOR THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON
BUILDING VALUE for GENERATIONS
MAKE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS MOST Designed by our family, for your family, Bonadelle Neighborhoods homes are built to make every holiday moment special. Cook, host, and gather comfortably with spacious chef-inspired kitchens, expansive countertops and breakfast bars. Happily host out of town guests in your Bonadelle Neighborhoods home with an abundance of bedrooms and large secondary baths. Generous open floor plans invite everyone to gather comfortably, while luxurious standard features make home the perfect place to celebrate traditions for generations to come.
FROM TOP TO BOTTOM
1. Thoughtfully designed spaces for gathering with loved ones. 2. Perfect porches for holiday decorating.
L E A R N M O R E AT B O N A D E L L E .C O M
YOUR HOMETOWN CONTRACTOR The Central Valley's Construction & Consulting Partner You Can Trust
CHRIS CALAFIORE • 559-907-6082 • CHRISC@CRC-CC.COM Se r v ing the C ent ral Valle y
CRC Construction & Consulting was founded in 2017 by Chris & Jennifer Calafiore as a full-service design-build general contractor, headquartered in California’s Central Valley and specializing in complex industrial and commercial projects. With over 250 successfully completed projects ranging from $150,000 to $70 million, CRC delivers turn-key solutions for: Industrial Buildings Waste And Recycling Facilities Agricultural Storage Auto Manufacturing Power Plants Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Build-To-Suit Projects Warehousing Steel Structures Airplane Hangars Specialty Facilities
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Riverstone Fire Station 6 Groundbreaking Ceremony
October 19, 2026
A groundbreaking reason to be thankful The season of tricks have been played and the ghouls, goblins, and ghosts are back to their yearly rest. Faint sounds of sleigh-bells are softly picking up pace in the distance, but the smell of warm pumpkin pie filling the air keeps them at bay. Now kichens, ovens and stoves meet their destined maximum capacity and their true work load callings. All of these are signs the holiday season is well underway. This special time of year we are grateful for healthy meals shared with our community and celebrate the people who serve to protect it. Welcoming Raley’s O-N-E Market and Fire Station 6 this year seems to have that perfect balance. By this time next year, Riverstone will welcome the brand new Fire Station 6, nearly 9,000 square feet, will feature three-engine apparatus bays designed to accommodate a ladder truck, six firefighter bunk rooms, a kitchen, day-room, exercise facilities, and public spaces to expand fire and emergency services of the Madera County. Thank you for celebrating with us! Look forward to a safe holiday season and beyond
To vote Riverstone and Riverwalk for Best Community and Best Shopping Center, Scan the code or visit cvlux.com/vote-now-2. Voting ends December 31st.
www.RiverstoneCA.com
@LifeAtRiverstoneCA
2026 Riverstone Development, LLC. Obtain a copy of the Public Report as required by Federal law and/or the Public Report issued by the California Bureau of Real Estate and read them before signing any documents. No Federal or State agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This advertisement is not a solicitation to purchase or sell property in any state where prohibited by law. The stylized R logo is a service mark of Riverstone Development, LLC. Riverstone and Riverstone Development are trade names of Riverstone Development, LLC. The San Joaquin River and River Park are located approximately six miles from Riverstone. *Future amentity coming soon.
—08— NOV
Contents Harvest
IN EVERY ISSUE 10 WELCOME TO THE ISSUE
12
20
MASTHEAD
SOCIAL AFFAIR 14
AROUND TOWN
November brings the season of gathering into full swing with Thanksgiving traditions, festive performances, and events that give back.
16
2027 LUXURY AWARDS
Voting is still underway for the 2027 Luxury Awards. Cast your ballot at www.CVLUX.com and help recognize the businesses that define luxury in the Central Valley.
32
SAFARI NIGHT 2026
Guests gathered for a wild evening of dining, entertainment, and philanthropy, all in support of the animals and mission of Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
34
HARVEST OF HOPE 2026
DEPARTMENTS 20
HARVEST BY DESIGN
Set the scene for Thanksgiving with a thoughtfully layered tablescape that blends seasonal color, collected pieces, and old and new elements for a table that feels both elevated and inviting.
24
THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM AT THE TABLE
Give tradition a fresh perspective by weaving seasonal ingredients and unexpected flavors into the Thanksgiving menu, complementing the familiar dishes everyone looks forward to.
26
POUR CHOICES
Raise a glass to Thanksgiving with three exceptional wines selected to complement everything from turkey and traditional fixings to the many flavors gathered around the holiday table.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno brought supporters together to help further its mission of serving local families in need.
28
36
Discover the beauty of flowers grown close to home, where changing colors, fragrances, and varieties offer a fresh way to experience seasonal agricultural abundance.
Wine country flavors took center stage in Madera, where guests savored an afternoon of Pinot Noir, freshly prepared paella, and vineyard hospitality.
30
CRŪ WINERY PINOT & PAELLA CELEBRATION
THE LUXURY OF LOCALLY GROWN FLOWERS
LET IT LINGER
Keep the evening going long after dinner is served with thoughtful touches that invite guests to linger over dessert, after-dinner drinks, and one another’s company.
38
WINE ME, DINE ME
NOV
The season of gathering is here, bringing plenty of reasons discover the restaurants, wineries, cocktails, and culinary experiences worth savoring nearby.
For November 2026, CVLUX features a Thanksgiving tablescape on the Harvest Issue cover.
40
PHOTOGRAPHER ELLIE KOLEEN FEATURES CONTRIBUTORS VICKI DEFRANCESCO, DANIELLE FISCHER & NICK MARZILIANO
This month turns attention inward as the stars encourage reflection, recalibration, and a closer look at the relationships shaping our lives.
COSTARS
Beautifully Crafted For The Moments That Bring Us Together
Exclusive Authorized Bassett Dealer for the Central Valley
Welcome to the Issue Harvest
Give Thanks On this Harvest Issue cover is a Thanksgiving table designed to inspire your own (page 20). There is always room at the table for new family and traditions (page 24). Learn how to make pour choices when selecting great wines for your feast (page 26). Discover how to best incorporate fall foliage into your florals (page 28). Keep the evening going long after dinner with tips on how to let it linger (page 30). Wine Me, Dine Me rounds up nearby sips and savory stops (page 38). November’s community calendar is all about gathering (page 14). Social Affair covers Safari Night 2026 (page 32), Harvest of Hope 2026 (page 34), and the CRŪ Winery Pinot & Paella Celebration (page 36). There’s still time to cast your vote for the 2027 Luxury Awards (page 16). CoStars turns inward with a spotlight on relationships (page 40).
Sip, Sit, and Stay Awhile
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to end when dinner does. Set out something sweet, pour an after-dinner drink, and let candlelight take over as the evening unfolds at its own pace. Give everyone a reason to sip, sit, and stay awhile. PHOTOGRAPHER ELLIE KOLEEN FEATURES CONTRIBUTOR ELISABETH ROSS
Starting Again
F I G
G A R D E N
V I L L AG E
—12— NOV
DAVID MANNING Publisher, Owner
EDITORIAL Editorial Director LAUREN BARISIC Features Contributors VICKI DEFRANCESCO, DANIELLE, FISCHER NICK MARZILIANO and ELISABETH ROSS Astrologer SHARI SCHOPP ART Design Director PHENG MOUA Contributing Photographers CLARISSA ALEXANDRIA, DON DIZON, MARIANO FRIGINALE ELLIE KOLEEN, LISA-MARIE MAZZUCCO and FRESNO CHAFFEE ZOO BUSINESS Director of Brand Development & Advertising NICOLE GIORDANO ASHJIAN Events Director & Producer LAURA THOMPSON Accounting Director DEE ANN LINKER Please submit all advertising inquires to information@cvlux.com.
Letters To The Editor: We want to hear from you. Please submit letters to: CVLUX, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720 or e-mail to information@cvlux.com. Letters must be signed and deemed appropriate for our readership to be considered for publishing. Letters are subject to editing and may be cut for length. Story Queries: Are you a writer? Please send story queries to lauren@cvlux.com. Please allow six to eight weeks for a response. CVLUX is not responsible for unsolicited material. CVLUX is published twelve times a year by Modern Living Publishing LLC, 7797 N. First St. #172, Fresno CA, 93720. Copyright 2014 by Modern Living Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure the information within this publication is complete and accurate at the time of publication. CVLUX does not warrant such accuracy or the claims of its advertisers. All materials, articles, reports, original artwork, and photos published in this magazine are the property of Modern Living Publishing LLC and cannot be used or reproduced without permission in writing. Modern Living Publishing LLC is not responsible for the opinions expressed within the publication. Prices quoted in advertisements are subject to change without notice.
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—14— NOV
LUX locale Community Calendar
November
AROUND TOWN 2026
November 7th
5th Annual Gala of Light Exceptional Parents Unlimited Pardini’s www.epuchildren.org
The 5th Annual Gala of Light brings community members and supporters together for an elegant evening celebrating those who illuminate the path for families and children with unique needs. Beginning at 6:00PM, the event features dining, signature cocktails, live and silent auctions, and heartfelt tributes, all in support of EPU’s mission of cultivating hope and resilience.
November 13th
THE FRESNO PHILHARMONIC BRINGS BACK GUEST ARTIST ORION WEISS. PHOTOGRAPHER LISA-MARIE MAZZUCCO
November 20th to January 3rd
November 21st and 22nd
Christmas at Kearney: Sounds of the Season
Elgar Enigma Variations
Grgich Hills Estate will be featured at this intimate evening of food and wine, pairing a special 5-course menu with selections from one of Napa’s most celebrated estates. From the first pour to the final course, guests will explore the wines, vineyards, and history that have made Grgich Hills such an enduring part of Napa Valley. Tickets are $185. Reservations are required.
Christmas at Kearney: Sounds of the Season fills Kearney Mansion with holiday splendor, featuring more than a dozen Christmas trees inspired by beloved carols and uniquely interpreted by local decorators. The seasonal celebration also offers special festivities throughout its run, including visits with Santa, a Christmas Market, Holiday Tea Party, and Succulent Social.
Guest conductor Rebecca Tong leads the Fresno Phil in Edward Elgar’s beloved Enigma Variations, a masterful musical portrait of the composer’s closest friends. Pianist Orion Weiss returns for Edward MacDowell’s sweeping Piano Concerto No. 2, while Indonesian composer Eunike Tanzil’s Ascending Creatures opens an evening showcasing expressive works from across generations.
November 19th
November 21st
Grgich Hills Wine Dinner The Elderberry House www.chateausureau.com
One Enchanted Evening Old Town Clovis www.oldtownclovis.org
One Enchanted Evening welcomes visitors to Old Town Clovis for an old-fashioned holiday open house filled with hospitality and seasonal cheer. From 5:00PM to 8:00PM, enjoy carolers, hot cocoa, luminaria-lined streets, festive storefronts, and complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides beneath twinkling lights for a magical evening the whole family can enjoy.
Fresno City & County Historical Society www.valleyhistory.org
Swan Lake
World Ballet Company William Saroyan Theater www.eventsfresno.com
World Ballet Company presents a Broadway-caliber production of the world’s most iconic ballet, live on stage. Featuring a cast of 50 skilled dancers, lavish hand-painted sets, and Tchaikovsky’s legendary score, this timeless story of love, betrayal, and transformation unfolds in breathtaking detail. Tickets range from $87.70 to $174.15.
Fresno Philharmonic Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall www.fresnophil.org
November 26th
22nd Annual Race Against Hunger Visalia Emergency Aid Council Downtown Visalia www.visaliachamber.org
Start Thanksgiving morning on the move at Visalia Emergency Aid Council’s 22nd Annual Race Against Hunger. The community tradition features a 5K run, two-mile walk, kids’ race, food vendors, music, and family-friendly activities. All proceeds support VEAC programs working to ensure local children and families have access to the food they need.
For more information contact event organizer as events may be subject to change.
Eye
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CULTURE. BEAUTY. STYLE. DESIGN. CUISINE. CVLUX Magazine proudly presents the 2027 Luxury Awards. Each year, CVLUX recognizes the Central Valley’s favorite businesses with Luxury Awards. The top five in each category made it to the official ballot. The winners will be announced at the Luxury Awards.
Voting Ends
December 31, 2026
Luxury Awards
January 29, 2027
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON FRESNO CONVENTION CENTER 2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, California 93721
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Michael S. Henriksen, DDS Central Valley Dental Implant & Oral Surgery Institute Brian Huh, DMD Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center
SALON & SPA
The Gallery by Ray Royce KI Salon THE MANE ROOM PREEN a boutique salon Bleach Bar Color + Extensions
FITNESS STUDIO
Gina Brar, MD, FACP Concierge Primary Care
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J. Steven Supancic, Jr., DDS, MD Oral & Facial Surgical Arts
CORE. Pilates CycleBar Fort Washington Fitness JB Fitness Rhonda’s Fitness
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SHOPPING CENTER
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BOUTIQUE
Mark A. Chin, MD, MPH Valley Institute of Plastic Surgery
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Sam Namdarian, DMD, MAGD Fresno Smile Makeovers
Amir Partovi, MD Athēnix Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Centers
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DERMATOLOGIST
DENTIST
Chad J. Anderson, MS, DMD Anderson Cosmetic & Comprehensive Excellence Dentistry
Rob A. Smith, DDS Smith Sedation Dentistry
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Kathleen Behr, MD Behr Laser & Skin Care Center Carlos Paz, MD, PhD Paz Dermatology
Ryann Christensen, DDS, MS Christensen Family Orthodontics
Babar K. Rao, MD, FAAD Rao Dermatology
Lucas DiCiccio, DDS, MSD DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics
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Mark Fagin, DDS, MS Fagin Orthodontics
Gregory L. Simpson, MD Inspire Health Medical Group
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MEDICAL SPA
Brian Thurman, DDS, MS Thurman Orthodontics
Aspire Medispa Kiss Me Med Spa The Medical Spa and Laser Center at Fig Garden NakedMD Revay Aesthetics
Jude’s Pacific Treasures & Gourmet RSVP Style Verdalee Vonda’s
HOME FURNISHINGS Chesterfield’s Antiques Fashion Furniture Living Spaces Revival 23 Shoppe At The Avenue
JEWELER
Artisan Fine Jewelers Fresno Coin Gallery Lewis Diamond Co. Orloff Jewelers Roger’s Jewelry Co.
AUTOMOTIVE DEALERSHIP
Fresno Acura Genesis of Selma Land Rover Fresno Madera Ford Mercedes-Benz of Fresno
COMMUNITY Copper River Ranch Heritage Grove The Preserve Riverstone Tesoro Viejo
RESIDENTIAL BUILDER Bonadelle Neighborhoods De Young Properties Gary McDonald Homes Lennar McCaffrey Homes
COMMERCIAL BUILDER Christensen Construction Harris Construction Legacy Construction Quiring General Square 1 Development
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Michelle Glass Community West Bank Joseph Parks Big Valley Mortgage
CONTRACTOR & REMODELING
CRC Construction & Consulting Dodson Builders Construction Icon Construction & Design Imagine Remodeling Design Build Trademark
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A&M Flooring and Design Bedrosians Creative Tile Italia Tile & Marble Robinson’s Interiors
INTERIOR DESIGN dlb design EMID Design Group Facility Designs Tangram Interiors Vitucci & Co. Interiors
FARM/GROWER Bee Sweet Citrus Fowler Packing Ricchiuti Family Farms Royal Madera Vineyards Wawona Frozen Foods
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Paul Salazar American Pacific Mortgage
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Alex Cetti London Properties Laura Mather-Mollica The Mather-Mollica Method Cole Petersen Pearson Realty Joe Sciarrone London Properties Paul Singh Paul Singh Real Estate Consultant
HOME IMPROVEMENT & APPLIANCES
Cabinet Connection Central Distributing Ferguson Home Urner’s Ventura TV Electronics & Appliances
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INSURANCE
Cal-Valley Insurance Services DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Global Financial Impact Kerr Insurance Brokers Professional Benefits Team Inc
CASINO
500 Club Casino Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Club One Casino Table Mountain Casino Resort Tachi Palace Casino Resort
RESORT/HOTEL
Château du Sureau The Darling Hotel Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa La Lomita Ranch Tenaya at Yosemite
BAR
Eden Wine Lounge Elderwood The Farmer & The Bootlegger Ovidio Ristorante Italiano Sabor Cocina Latina & Bar
CASUAL DINING Bistro di Bufala Elbow Room Bar & Grill Max’s Bistro & Bar Nick’s Wine Bar Cafe Yolked Kitchen
FORMAL DINING 13 Prime Steakhouse Bulle FIVE Parma Ristorante The Ranch
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Gill Estate Law, P.C. Goldberg & Ibarra Kimball, Tirey & St. John, LLP Moran Law Firm Quinlan, Kershaw & Fanucchi
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Harvest
by Design Editorial Director Lauren Barisic Photographer Ellie Koleen
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has always been an invitation to gather, but the table itself has a way of becoming part of the tradition. It is where recipes are passed, glasses are raised, stories resurface, and another year of memories quietly joins those that came before it. Setting it beautifully need not mean setting it perfectly. In fact, the most compelling tables are often those that feel collected rather than coordinated, layered with pieces accumulated over time, objects brought out only for the season, and a few unexpected additions that make the occasion feel new again.
B
egin with a color story. Establishing a palette before pulling everything from the cupboard creates cohesion without requiring every element to match. Autumn naturally lends itself to warmth, but there is no need to limit the table to conventional orange and brown. Tobacco, oxblood, moss, plum, ochre, and antique brass can mingle with softer notes of blush, cream, and faded green. Even a darker table can provide a dramatic foundation, allowing flowers, candlelight, and metallic finishes to emerge with greater depth. Once the palette is established, build the table in layers. Think beyond color to material and finish: crisp or loosely woven linens against polished flatware, translucent glass beside substantial ceramics, glossy surfaces juxtaposed with natural foliage. A table becomes visually interesting when the eye has somewhere to travel. Chargers anchor each place setting, plates introduce pattern or texture, folded napkins soften the composition, and glassware adds height and sparkle. This is also where the freedom to mix becomes invaluable. Thanksgiving is not the occasion to worry that every plate belongs to the same set. Pair your grandmother’s china with contemporary chargers. Bring patterned salad plates into an otherwise restrained setting. Mix crystal with colored glass or vintage goblets with simpler stemware. Old and new give one another context, and a table assembled this way often feels far more personal than one purchased all at once. The same principle applies to glassware. Providing several vessels at each place setting (perhaps a water glass, wineglass, and smaller cocktail or cordial glass) immediately gives the table a sense of abundance. They need not be identical. Repeating a color, cut, material, or general silhouette is often enough to make disparate collections feel intentional together. Then consider what happens between the place settings. Flowers are an obvious focal point, but scale matters. Thanksgiving is a meal meant for conversation, and guests should never have to peer around an arrangement to see the person across from them. Keep substantial florals low enough for comfortable sightlines, or use taller, airier stems that leave visual space beneath them. Rather than relying on one enormous centerpiece, consider several arrangements of varying sizes woven along the length of the table. Candlelight should be treated with the same sense of variation. Slender tapers bring height and elegance, while votives cast their glow closer to the table. Used together, they create pools of light at different levels, which is a far moodier and more flattering effect than a single source. Metallic candlesticks, etched glass votives, and tapers in a color pulled from the table’s palette can become decorative elements in their own right. As dinner approaches, dim the overhead lighting and allow the candles to do much of the work. Perhaps the most charming additions, though, are those that serve no practical purpose at all. Thanksgiving is particularly well suited to festive collectibles. Ceramic turkeys, glass pumpkins, small silver pheasants, vintage salt cellars, sculptural gourds, and other seasonal curiosities give the table personality. A statement fowl tucked among the flowers can be every bit as impactful as another arrangement. These are the pieces children remember seeing each year and adults eventually associate with home. Collected slowly, they become part of the visual vocabulary of the holiday. The trick is to incorporate them rather than simply place them. Nestle a figurine into greenery, repeat small pumpkins between candlesticks, or allow an heirloom object to become the centerpiece around which newer pieces are arranged. When objects overlap slightly and décor moves naturally between florals, candles, and place settings, the entire table reads as one composition. Resist the temptation to save everything precious for “someday.” Use the china. Polish the silver. Pour wine into the crystal. Layer an inherited serving piece beside something found last week. A beautiful table gains meaning through use, and Thanksgiving offers perhaps the best excuse of the year to open the cabinets and bring treasured things back into circulation. Most importantly, leave room for the meal and for the people gathered around it. A successful tablescape should feel generous rather than crowded, considered rather than contrived. Set the table early enough to enjoy the process, then edit. Remove anything that obstructs a serving dish, crowds a place setting, or interrupts conversation. The objective is not perfection. It is atmosphere. Layer color, texture, history, and a little whimsy until the table feels unmistakably your own. Because long after the plates have been cleared and the last candles have burned low, what remains is not whether everything matched. It is the feeling of having gathered beautifully and the people who were there to share it.
There is Always
ROOM at the Table
Features Contributor Vicki DeFrancesco
O
ne of the things that makes Thanksgiving so special is the tradition of it all. It’s the familiar dishes and flavors we look forward to year after year, the recipes we know by heart, and the little rituals that make the day feel familiar. There’s comfort in returning to those favorites and gathering around a table that feels connected to Thanksgivings past. But there’s always room to add something new or unexpected to the menu, too. Sometimes it’s those little additions, such as a seasonal ingredient, a new recipe, or a dish brought by a guest, that make a holiday meal feel even more memorable. I love a Saturday morning trip to the farmers’ market for a little inspiration. Fall is one of my favorite seasons for finding beautiful ingredients, especially here in the Central Valley. Winter squash, apples, pears, pomegranates, and plenty of fresh herbs are just a few of my favorites. When putting your menu together, think about how the flavors, colors, and textures will work together. Even something as simple as roasting apples or pears alongside your potatoes can bring a little sweetness to a savory dish. A salad with crisp pears, pomegranate arils, and toasted or candied nuts adds freshness, crunch, and a pop of color to the table. It’s not about changing the dishes everyone loves, but finding ways for everything on the table to complement one another. There’s a lot that goes into preparing Thanksgiving dinner, so I always begin with a list of what I’m serving, starting with all those family favorites. From there, I figure out what I can make a day or two ahead. Pie crusts, dressings, and some side dishes can be made early, leaving fewer things to do on Thanksgiving morning. And when guests ask if they can bring something, let them! Share what you’re planning to serve, but encourage them to bring a dish of their choosing. It might be a treasured family recipe, a favorite
comfort food, or something they’ve always wanted to share. Giving your guests the opportunity to bring something that’s meaningful to them is such a lovely way to make them feel welcome. Why not make the preparation part of the celebration? Invite the kids into the kitchen to help with a simple recipe, gather colorful fall leaves for the table, or make place cards. Have a few coloring pages, games, or puzzles ready for them, too. And while everyone is coming and going from the kitchen, put out a few nibbles for guests to enjoy. A simple board of cheeses, crackers, and a few favorite bites is all you need, and this can often be made ahead of time or thrown together without taking much time. When it comes to serving, shop your house. Pull out those family serving dishes, mix in a few vintage finds, and have fun putting things together in a way that feels like you. A bowl of pomegranates, a few oranges, or colorful leaves gathered from the yard can be just as lovely as an elaborate centerpiece. One of my favorite entertaining tricks is using stacks of cookbooks as risers for serving platters. It’s an easy way to add height and interest to a buffet using something you already have. Think about how you want to serve the meal, too. Passing dishes family-style works beautifully for a smaller gathering, while a buffet might be more practical for a larger group. One of the things I’ve come to appreciate about Thanksgiving is how our traditions evolve over the years. The menu might change, the table might look a little different, and, hopefully, there will be new faces gathered around it. And that’s a good thing. Whether we’re welcoming a new dish or a new guest, there’s always room to make the celebration your own. At the heart of Thanksgiving, it’s still about gathering around the table, sharing good food, and being thankful for the people we get to share it with.
POUR
CHOI CES
Features Contributor Nick Marziliano
THREE EXCEPTIONAL WINES FOR YOUR THANKSGIVING TABLE Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays because it’s about bringing family and friends together around the dinner table, enjoying great food, good wine, and, most importantly, each other’s company. At Sam’s Italian Deli & Market, we’ve been helping families prepare for their holiday gatherings for 46 years. One thing I’ve learned over those years is that selecting the right wines doesn’t have to be complicated. The best wines are those that complement the food, bring people together, and make the occasion a little more memorable. Start with something bubbly. Then offer both white and red options. Thanksgiving naturally lends itself to gathered and collected dishes, so the wines present should be versatile and easy to pair with a variety of savory flavors. For this Thanksgiving, I’ve selected three wines that I think are exceptional choices for the traditional turkey dinner and all the wonderful fixings that go along with it, along with notes on how to go about making your own pairings.
—27— NOV
BUBBLES
RED
The Perfect Way to Begin Any Gathering Recommendation: Charles Le Bel 1818 Inspiration Champagne
An Elegant, Dark Sipper for the Thanksgiving Table Recommendation: Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Champagne is one of my favorite ways to welcome guests, whether it's Thanksgiving dinner or simply an evening with friends. While many people think of Champagne as something reserved for celebrations and special occasions, I've always considered it one of the most versatile and food-friendly wines in the world. Its refreshing acidity, delicate bubbles, and elegant character make it a wonderful companion to just about any appetizer or salad. Whether you're serving traditional Italian antipasto, fine cheeses, seafood, or a fresh seasonal salad, it pairs beautifully with so many different flavors. And don't feel you need to put the Champagne away when dinner is served. It's also a wonderful match for roasted turkey and many of the traditional Thanksgiving side dishes. I've always believed you don't need a special occasion to open a great bottle of bubbly. Sometimes opening the Champagne is what makes the occasion special, and Charles Le Bel 1818 Inspiration Champagne is one of my favorites to share.
If there’s one red wine I consistently recommend for Thanksgiving, it’s Pinot Noir. Unlike bigger, heavier reds that can overpower turkey and some of the more delicate side dishes, a good Pinot Noir has the elegance, acidity, and balance to complement just about everything on the table. Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a beautiful example. With its bright red fruit character, subtle earthy notes, and silky texture, it’s a wine that brings out the best in traditional Thanksgiving flavors. I particularly enjoy these notes alongside roasted turkey, herb stuffing, mushroom dishes, roasted root vegetables, and even cranberry sauce. The natural acidity and restrained tannins in Pinot Noir make it incredibly versatile throughout the meal. For guests who prefer red wine with their Thanksgiving dinner, this would be one of my first recommendations.
WHITE A Beautiful Match for the Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Recommendation: Cliff Lede Napa Valley Chardonnay When it comes to Thanksgiving, a well-balanced Chardonnay is hard to beat. I particularly enjoy the Cliff Lede Napa Valley Chardonnay because it offers a beautiful combination of richness, elegance, and freshness without overwhelming the food. With its inviting notes of apple, pear, and subtle baking spices, along with a smooth, beautifully balanced finish, this Chardonnay complements so many of the traditional flavors we associate with Thanksgiving. These tasting notes make a terrific pairing with roasted turkey, especially the white meat, along with buttery mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, roasted vegetables, and turkey gravy. What I especially appreciate about a Chardonnay like this is that it has enough richness to stand up to the heartier dishes on the table while maintaining the freshness that makes you look forward to the next bite.
One of the things I’ve always enjoyed most about wine is sharing it with others. You don’t have to be a wine expert to appreciate a great bottle, and there’s certainly no rule that everyone at the table needs to drink the same wine. My suggestion is simple: have all three available. Start the gathering with Champagne, offer the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with dinner, and let your guests enjoy whichever wine they prefer. After all, choosing wine for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s less about finding the perfect pairing and more about bringing people together around the table. Great food, good wine, and, most importantly, the company of family and friends are what make the occasion memorable.
THE LUXURY OF LOCALLY GROWN FLOWERS
Features Contributor Danielle Fischer
Living in the Central Valley, we are surrounded by an extraordinary agricultural landscape. From spring blossoms to autumn harvests, each season brings something new to enjoy. We celebrate the fruits and vegetables grown here, seek out seasonal ingredients at local markets, and appreciate the people who cultivate them. Flowers deserve a place in that conversation, too. There is a luxury in having access to flowers grown close to home and enjoyed in their natural season. Their colors, fragrances, and varieties change throughout the year, letting us experience our region’s beauty in new ways. Much like the food we bring to our tables, knowing where our flowers come from adds something meaningful to the experience. A Season for Every Flower One pleasure of locally grown flowers is discovering what each season offers, and here in the Central Valley, each season offers an impressive abundance. Spring welcomes specialty flowers like ranunculus, anemones, and fragrant garden roses. As the summer days grow warmer, dahlias, zinnias, and other hardy summer favorites begin to flourish and replace the delicate blooms of spring. Autumn brings richer colors, ornamental grasses, seed heads, and foliage that reflect the changing garden.
A Central Valley Thanksgiving The Thanksgiving arrangements seen here celebrate our local landscape’s abundance by bringing together flowers with fruits, vegetables, and the interesting textures found in an autumn garden. Luxury garden roses, dahlias, chrysanthemums, lisianthus, and zinnias create a colorful collection of blooms. Amaranth and ornamental grasses add enchanting movement and whimsy, while magnolia foliage, eucalyptus, and flowering kale add depth and texture.
While imported flowers make many familiar varieties available throughout the year, locally grown flowers invite us to enjoy what is naturally in season. Each season has its own sensation. The lightness of a sunny spring morning is different from the warmth and abundance of an autumn harvest. Flowers naturally reflect those changes, bringing the season’s colors, textures, and feeling from the garden to our tables. A vase filled with delicate spring blooms might feel airy and fresh, while an autumn arrangement overflowing with dahlias, garden roses, and textured foliage brings warmth and richness to a gathering.
Tucked among the flowers are artichokes, raspberries, and rose hips, unexpected additions that bring the local landscape directly into the arrangement. Incorporating these elements reminds us that beautiful arrangements do not have to be made entirely of flowers. A branch of berries, an interesting vegetable, or foliage gathered from the garden can be just as lovely. For a Thanksgiving table, these details feel especially fitting. The arrangements become a celebration of the harvest, complementing the food being served and the season we are gathered to enjoy.
Freshness You Can Appreciate Most flowers bought through conventional retail channels travel long distances before reaching our homes. Imported flowers play an important role in making blooms available year-round, but local flower farms offer another experience. Flowers grown nearby can be harvested closer to the time they are enjoyed, often allowing us to experience varieties that are less commonly found in traditional flower shops. Locally grown flowers also introduce us to varieties we may not recognize immediately. Discovering an unfamiliar bloom, learning its name, and enjoying it during its growing season can become part of the pleasure of buying flowers. Making Flowers Part of Everyday Life Fresh flowers have a way of making ordinary moments feel special. Small arrangements scattered around the home can bring color and nature into daily routines. You don’t need an elaborate centerpiece to achieve this, as a handful of fresh stems in a favorite vase can be equally beautiful. Seasonal floral subscriptions offer another way to enjoy flowers regularly, introducing new varieties throughout the year. Flowers are also a lovely way to welcome guests. For a dinner party, consider blooms that complement the season’s menu. In autumn, richly colored flowers mixed with herbs, berries, or ornamental vegetables can create a beautiful connection between the garden and the food on the table. Growing Close to Home Growing flowers in Clovis over the past decade at Magnolia’s Yarden has given me a deeper appreciation for the relationship between our agricultural landscape and the seasons. There is a great deal of craftsmanship behind locally grown flowers. Each variety has its own growing requirements, harvest window, and characteristics that influence how it looks and performs in a vase. This attention to detail is part of artisan agriculture, where the quality of a flower is appreciated as much as its beauty. The Central Valley is celebrated for its agricultural abundance, and flowers are another expression of what our region can grow. Whether gathered for a holiday table or enjoyed in a simple vase at home, they offer a way to experience the changing seasons through something grown close to home. Cultivating a botanical lifestyle, from the garden to the kitchen, is simply about finding ways to enjoy that connection in daily life. The result is an appreciation for seasonality, artisan agriculture, and the beauty of bringing the garden indoors.
LET IT...
Linger
Features Contributor Elisabeth Ross
E
ven when Thanksgiving dinner is technically over, the evening most certainly is not. Plates have been cleared, glasses are still half-full, and no one is quite ready to leave the table. Rather than rushing into the next course, let things linger a little longer. Dessert routines can help set that pace before a single slice is served.
Display pies and other sweets somewhere guests can admire them throughout the evening. After all, we eat with our eyes first, and a beautiful pecan pie or towering layer cake deserves to be part of the scenery. When it is time for dessert, leave plates, forks, and serving utensils nearby and invite everyone to help themselves. It feels generous without being formal and allows guests to return for another sliver whenever the mood strikes. Small candy dishes scattered throughout the gathering spaces offer the same sense of abundance. Fill them with fine chocolates, after-dinner mints, or festive hard candies for a little something sweet that requires no service at all. These tiny details encourage guests to settle in rather than wait for the next thing to happen. The same approach works beautifully for drinks. Arrange cups, saucers, and glassware alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso and a few nightcap pours. Amaro, cognac, and port are classics, though a simple dessert cocktail prepared for easy self-service can be equally inviting. The idea is to make everything accessible enough that hosting becomes nearly hands-off. And do not forget the whipped cream—for both pies and coffee. Hand-whipped cream is one of those wonderfully simple homemade touches that makes dessert feel special. Better still, it can be prepared ahead and kept refrigerated for several days. Bring it out with dessert (it can sit temporarily on the counter, though nestling the serving bowl over ice is ideal) and let guests add a generous spoonful themselves. As dinner gives way to dessert, allow the atmosphere to change with it. Lower the lights and let the candles that have flickered throughout dinner take center stage. Maybe move from the dining table to a living room, den, or other comfortable gathering space where everyone can settle into a chair or curl up on the sofa. Dessert need not arrive immediately or even all at once. This is also when traditions tend to find their way back to you. Bring out a deck of cards or a favorite board game. Revisit family stories that somehow get better with every telling. Let younger and older generations play together. Some guests may continue sipping coffee while others return to the pie, and someone will inevitably sneak another chocolate from the candy dish. That is precisely the point. Keep refreshments within reach so no one feels compelled to continually host—or be hosted. When the evening eventually winds down, send guests home with leftovers tucked into pretty containers or wrapped with a little care. The best gatherings rarely end according to schedule. Thanksgiving, especially, should have room for one more cup of coffee, another story, and a final sliver of pie. Once dinner is over, perhaps the most gracious thing a host can do is simply make it easy for everyone to stay.
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SOCIAL affair Safari Night 2026
SAFARI NIGHT 2026 Benefiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo Photographer Fresno Chaffee Zoo The Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s Safari Night 2026 took place on Friday, September 18th on Zoo grounds. As the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, the event welcomed 740 guests and raised more than $600,000. Through Fund a Need, guests contributed more than $100,000 to help support the care of all the animals at the Zoo, including its newest babies. These proceeds provide vital support for the Zoo’s animals, staff, education programs, and conservation efforts. The Zoo also recognized Chief Operations Officer Lynn Myers for her 30 years of service. For more information about the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, please visit www.fcz.org.
The Best Memories are Made at the Table Join us for A Storybook Christmas at Vonda’s
This Christmas, every book you purchase helps us gift one to a child in Fresno County — share the magic of reading.
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—34— NOV
SOCIAL affair Harvest of Hope 2026
HARVEST OF HOPE 2026 Benefiting Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno Photographer Mariano Friginale This year’s Harvest of Hope took place on Saturday, September 26th at Valdez Hall with 300 attendees present. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving, advocating for, and empowering those in need throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Guests opened their hearts to deliver the highest-earning silent auction in event history, and the Angels of Hope campaign alone raised nearly $80,000. While final numbers are still being tallied, the overwhelming response guarantees life-changing assistance for countless Valley families in the coming year. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere felt alive with warmth, purpose, and community spirit. The spirit of giving continued to unfold with a moving prayer led by Bishop Joseph Brennan. The heart of the night shone brightly during the presentation of the Bishop John T. Steinbock Ministry of Presence Awards to John and Deanna Driscoll and The Bethlehem Center. The Ministry of Presence Guild’s tireless dedication and vision behind the scenes brought this beautiful, faith-filled celebration to life. For more information about Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno, please visit www.dioceseoffresno.org/ catholic-charities.
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SOCIAL affair
CRŪ Winery Pinot & Paella Celebration
CRŪ WINERY PINOT & PAELLA CELEBRATION Photographer Clarissa Alexandria On Saturday, October 10th, CRŪ Winery hosted its first Pinot & Paella Celebration at its Madera tasting room. Spectacular weather and rustic, Mediterranean-inspired décor greeted 110 guests for the luncheon. Attendees enjoyed Chef Anthony Freitas’ famous paella while sipping CRŪ Winery’s single-vineyard, award-winning Pinot Noirs. Assistant Winemaker Juan Reyes delighted attendees with a preview of the winery’s Sierra Madre Vineyard Clone 828 Pinot Noir, which releases to the public this fall. Musician Corey Whitehead performed traditional flamenco guitar music. For more information about CRŪ Winery, please visit www.cruwinery.com.
Serving the Valley for 26 years. MYCREATIVETILE.COM 7030 N Harrison Ave. Fresno, CA 93650 info@mycreativetile.com (559) 436-8453
Monday-Friday 7:30 am – 5:30 pm PST Saturday 8:00am – 2:00pm PST Closed Sunday
—38— NOV
WINE ME DINE ME Food & Drink Guide Shake+Stir at Bulle Photographer Don Dizon
731 West San Jose Avenue Fresno, CA 93704 (559) 227-1234 www.elbowroomfresno.com Spend less time cooking and more time making memories this Thanksgiving! Let Elbow Room take care of the feast with tender roasted turkey breast, traditional holiday sides, and all the fixings, thoughtfully prepared for your holiday table, so you can focus on what matters most.
2415 North First Street Fresno, CA 93703 (559) 229-0656 www.samsitaliandeli.com Nick’s Wine Bar Cafe is a hidden gem nestled inside Sam’s Italian Deli, offering full-service lunch in an intimate setting. Enjoy specialty dishes, signature sandwiches, a selection of hand-curated wines, and Italian-inspired cocktails. Experience Italian hospitality in the heart of the Central Valley at Nick’s.
M oravia wines
3620 North Bishop Avenue Fresno, CA 93723 (559) 843-2140 www.moraviawines.com
Sip award-winning wines at Moravia’s family-friendly winery—kids love the playground, adults love the patio and indoor tasting room. Open weekends noon to 5:00PM, plus Wine Down Friday every first Friday with live music. Mention CVLUX for a $1 glass of wine.
1110 East Champlain Drive Fresno, CA 93720 (559) 434-5553 www.5restaurant.com Italian Cuisine
FIVE offers an exquisite blend of contemporary Californian and Italian cuisine with a private wine room, patio dining, and a full bar. The engaging atmosphere and energetic ambience is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night with friends.
Want to be a part of the guide? Call or email your CVLUX Account Executive today to take advantage of this exciting opportunity. information@cvlux.com
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—40— NOV
LUX lifestyle Horoscopes
COSTARS Astrologer Shari Schopp @shari_starlight www.eyeonastrology.com
Aries
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March 21st to April 19th
There’s an overhaul underway in balancing personal identity with committed partnerships. This head-on collision between individual desires and relationship obligations comes up for review. Use the mirror of opposition to reflect inward and clarify desires moving forward.
Taurus
April 20th to May 20th
Take this occasion to recalibrate daily wellness, work routines, and one-to-one alliances. Look beyond superficial fixes and reevaluate where your energy is being given to others without mutual support in return. Stay objective about what emerges.
Gemini
May 21st to June 21st
Communication hurdles may stir intense internal tension and anxiety while also opening the door to deep psychological healing. Try not to overanalyze everything or retreat into silence with companions. Be honest, speak from the heart, and clear the air.
Cancer
June 22nd to July 22nd
Spend some time in reflection and journal thoughts about deeper feelings and close dynamics. Consider what strengthens emotional security and where unspoken needs may linger beneath the surface. Trust what comes through, and let truthful insights guide change.
Leo
July 23rd to August 22nd
New junctures arise with a powerful blend of drive and higher wisdom that advances your vision. Quick action and sharp problem-solving put you ahead. Watch for impatience or pride. Stay humble, acknowledge mistakes, and embrace possibilities for success.
Virgo
August 23rd to September 22nd
A range of energy, from quiet to intense, influences daily thoughts and brings profound depth to mental focus and investigation. The vitality of personal expression draws attention, encouraging you to step beyond your naturally quiet and reserved demeanor.
Libra September 23rd to October 23rd
The scales of balance turn inward during the first half of the month. They right themselves during the second. Focus shifts toward personal values and self-evaluation. A magnetic air of mystery surrounds you, highlighting a thoughtful, reflective nature.
Scorpio
October 24th to November 21st
The mind can feel loud yet difficult to express. Question personal choices and outward presentation. As past emotions resurface, release old patterns that no longer reflect who you’re becoming or the person emerging with greater clarity now.
Sagittarius
November 22nd to December 21st
Passionate by nature, you’re on a mission to find meaning through new endeavors, self-expression, and big ideas. This month’s focus is twofold: tie up loose ends while making room for inspiration to strike, creating space to chase dreams.
Capricorn
December 22nd to January 19th
Reassessing your current career path may bring unexpected surprises. Questioning long-term goals helps redefine self-worth, ambition, and status. These insights open the door to new prospects, while deeper personal reflections support progress and professional success.
Aquarius
January 20th to February 18th
Navigating intense presence and artistic breakthroughs offers a powerful way to transform the core self through inspired creative expression. Stand firmly in personal power while allowing detachment to reveal what flows through the heart with greater awareness.
Pisces
February 19th to March 20th
Enjoy moving forward as heavy past cycles finally wrap up. Mixed signals begin to clear, allowing thoughtful planning to come into view. Tap into this powerful shift from guesswork to grounded focus, anchoring intuition in practical, everyday habits.
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Since first submitting to Wine Enthusiast in 2019, every wine submitted from every vintage has earned 90 points or higher—a testament to the Ranch’s commitment to quality and the art of expressing its land through wine.
2026 WINE ENTHUSIAST SCORES
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2024 Islay Hill Estate Syrah
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2024 Islay Hill Estate Chardonay
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2024 Islay Hill Estate Grenanche “Cellar Selection”
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2024 Islay Hill Estate Pinot Noir
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2024 Islay Hill Estate Albariño “Hidden Gem”
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