~ A Sensual & Intellectual Feast in Sonoma Wine Country ~
Sonoma Valley is a feast for the senses during the late summer and fall. The natural beauty of our hills and vineyards, the aroma of crushed grapes in the air, and seemingly endless opportunities to wine and dine during September and October are sensual pleasures that draw thousands of visitors annually.
But there's more. High-brow film buffs and everyday movie-lovers have yet another reason to travel here this time of year. It's the Santa Rosa International Film Festival, a 7-day movie extravaganza, also known as the Wine Country Film Festival, which is marking it's 25th anniversary.
The festival kicked off on September 14th and it runs through Tuesday, September 20th. The schedule lists movies about the arts, the environment, Latino culture, food, and a slew of films made and produced by creators of cinema from more than 20 other nations. Over 125 movies will reportedly be shown this year.
Sonoma Valley's Deerfield Ranch Winery, located in Kenwood, has been a major sponsor of this event and an opening night party was held there on the 14th. There are two Santa Rosa movie theaters screening many of the films: The Roxy Theater and the Summerfield Theaters. A full schedule of showings is available if you take a look at the 37 page program posted online.
Local passes for the full run of the festival for Sonoma County residents cost $100 and provide access to all the movies being shown. There are day passes for $50. An assortment of other ticket packages cost from $65 to $500 and include a variety of benefits and privileges.
Deerfield's wine cave is a pretty amazing place to see. I've been there for other events and it's beautifully constructed...very large and deep. And now---for your viewing pleasure --- a pretty festival promo. It was filmed at Deerfield and it gives you a peek of the wine cave. It will arouse your senses.
sriff-Vimeo HD from Tylor Norwood on Vimeo.
