We never miss attending at least one of Thornton Winery Summer Series Jazz concerts. This was the 28th year of such events which take place at the .picturesque Courtyard and patio of the Winery and can accommodate some 600 people.
Those attending have the choice of purchasing general admission tickets for non reserve seating or the gourmet supper package which includes a reserved table and three course dinner.
Last Saturday night when we attended  Keiko Matsui showed a house of excited fans why her fame is world wide. Backing her up was a group of truly gifted sidemen with a percussion section that had both the wine glasses and fans jiggling.
For our dinner Chef Alfred Fierro Jr. stepped forward with an outstanding menu that offered a Cafe Champagne Salad of field greens, tomatoes, golden raisins, spiced pecans, with blue cheese. Served with it Thornton NV Champagne. Our notes on this vintage reported a great aroma full of fruit, fine acidity and balance and a pleasant finish.
Entree was oven roasted Salmon with marbled baby potato, chef's vegetables and a saffron sauce.. The wine, a Thornton 2014 Chardonnay. This wine was very true to its Bugundian heritage with light nose, dry fruit flavors on the palate and a long finish. Dessert was Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake with sugar crumbs. The wine an exceptional Thornton 2013 Barbera with a demanding presence and just right for sipping as Vocalist Kenny Lattimore and Michael Lington on saxophone took over on stage with a most enthusiastic audience.
These concerts will continue through October offering some of the brightest names in contemporary jazz.
Thornton Winery is located at 32575 Rancho California Road in Temecula with ample off street free parking to all that attend. For the complete concert schedule call 951- 699-0099 as well as information on tickets which can be purchased in advance of each event.
 And of course you can enjoy the cuisine of Chef Alfred Fierro any time at Cafe Champagne. On the web at www.thorntonwine.com.