Or, should I say, “Are you ready for the holidays?” There is a difference, you know. Christmas is a celebration, an observation of an event in history. The holidays are a celebration of traditions and man-made affairs.

Christmas wasn't even celebrated by the early church until the 4 th Century A.D. In fact, early Christians thought celebrating birthdays was a pagan ritual and not to be practiced. It wasn't until the fall of the Roman Empire and the salvation of Constantine that December 25 was set as the date for the celebration of Jesus' birth. This was done to counteract the pagan holiday celebrating the Winter Solstice. The Eastern church wanted to celebrate Christmas on January 6 th , which was their Winter holiday. Between the two churches, the twelve days of Christmas was born, starting on December 25 th and ending on January 6 th . Later on, the Puritans and Pilgrims tried to ban Christmas from even being celebrated because of its pagan connections. But, this was unpopular, and Christmas survived to be commercialized to this day.

Cedar Mountain Winery
Northern California's Livermore Valley is home to one of America's great Cabernet Sauvignon producers. Also not to be missed are their highly praised Chardonnay, dessert wines and port wines. Join in summertime jazz concerts and a calendar of congenial wine events.

Bettinelli Vineyards
Grown in the famous Napa wine region, Bettinelli produces luscious Viognier, Cabernet, Chardonnay and Merlot. Their mini violin case makes a unique gift for wine enthusiasts.

Weibel Sparkling Wines
For weddings, special events & business gifts, what better than wine with your own label. Weibel is one of the largest custom champagne houses in the US, offering personalized wedding champagnes & a complete designer label program for corporate gift giving.