Auberge Mendocino Inn Celebrates Wine & Mushroom Festival with “Fun Guys” Wild Mushroom Walk and Workshop, Nov. 12

MENDOCINO, Calif., September 19, 2005 – As part of the 6th Annual Mendocino Wine & Mushroom Festival, Auberge Mendocino — Rachel’s Inn in Little River will host a mushroom workshop and walk led by two nationally recognized mushroom experts on Saturday, Nov. 12.

Famed mycologist Charmoon Richardson and mushroom authority Ryane Snow, dubbed the “Fun Guys,” will lead Auberge Mendocino guests and visitors on a “From the Forest to the Table” foray into the woods surrounding the Inn in search of wild edible mushrooms. After the harvest, participants return to the bed and breakfast to learn how to identify, dry and cook their specimens and taste delicious gourmet wild mushroom dishes.

Limited to 30 participants, the seminar is free for guests staying at Auberge Mendocino and costs $30 for visitors. Advance payment is required and fees are non-refundable.

With microclimates ranging from cool and moist at the Pacific Ocean, to hot and dry inland, Mendocino is home to many varieties of wild mushrooms. Each year tons of fungi are gathered and shipped to fine restaurants and shops all over the world. Visitors can learn more about the local mushrooms at the Mendocino Wine & Mushroom Festival, Nov. 10-15. For more festival information visit www.gomendo.com.

Located three- and- a- half hours north of San Francisco, Auberge Mendocino — Rachel’s Inn is an ideal coastal retreat for couples, families and nature lovers seeking to explore Mendocino’s redwoods, beaches, art galleries, antique shops, cuisine and wine. The Inn offers nine luxurious guest rooms and suites, and two spacious cottages in a setting of informal gardens, century-old cypress trees and hiking trails that wind gently down to the beach. Guest quarters have private baths and king or queen beds, and many have fireplaces, cable TV and private decks.

Room rates range from $169 to $339, double occupancy, and include gourmet breakfast served in the fireside dining room, a fruit basket and concierge services. There is a two-night minimum stay. Taxes are extra.

To register for the “From the Forest to the Table” workshop or for room reservations visit www.aubergemendocino.com or call 800.347.9252 or 707.937.0088.

# # #