Monterey Wine Festival
I forgot to mention… last month I went to the Monterey Wine Festival. I try to go every year because it’s such a wonderful experience. It was hard to count, but it seemed like there were over 100 different wineries there. Maybe I’m exaggerating, but it was definitely over 50. And in addition there are several premium food vendors offering fine cheeses, seafood, and several other delicacies. It’s basically a wine and foodies dream come true! If you’re curious for next year there’s a list of all the participants on their website. There was also a chef giving free cooking lessons; including recipes such as Caramelized Pineapple Meringue Flambé, Artichoke and Chestnut Velouté with Sautéed Apples, and Tender Calamari Filled with Chorizo, Topped with Tomato Sauce and Served over Soft Polenta. I went to the event at the Hyatt. Apparently they also have a day at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I’m thinking about trying it next year. I’m sure it would be fine indulging on wine and cheese while you hang out with sea turtles. 
Tickets are $99 which seems expensive, but considering its 3 hours of unlimited wine and food it’s not that bad of a deal. According to their website there are over 300 wines to taste. The events are limited to 1,500 guests and I wouldn’t be surprised if it was sold out. So if you plan to attend next year buy your tickets early. This is a highly recommended experience!
Cheers,
Wine Club Insider
The Monterey Wine Festival Celebrates 35 years with historical highlights!
June 10th 4 – 8 p.m. and June 11th Noon – 4 p.m. 2011
Now in its 35th year The Monterey Wine Festival continues to evolve into a platform for the regional wine industry and the community of wine lovers. After 35 years the festival will take a historical turn and bring guests along for the sips and scenery. On Friday the festival will kick at The Monterey Hyatt Regency where bites and sips from the wineries will be enjoyed. During this evening guest’s can take a quick hop on the Champagne Shuttle sponsored by Sam Linder Auto Group and continue the party at The Monterey Museum of Art-La Mirada. This museum is known for its historic architecture and the former celebrities that resided there. Guests can enjoy the views from the hilltop and the art inside the gallery, but perhaps the most ardent competition for attention will be found in the sips of champagne and bites of chocolate dipped strawberries. What fun to hob-knob in the same location as old Hollywood!
On Saturday the celebration continues at another historic destination The Custom House Plaza and The Maritime Museum, which boasts a snazzy newly appointed foyer. These historical edifices are on designations that many consider hallowed ground. Guests will continue this day of celebration with a completely mouth watering experience from both the wineries and purveyors of food. Along with these two ingredients live music is the final sensation that further ensures a winning combination. Wine, Food, Music! Aaa hhh!
It’s a Chowdah Throw Down!
A sweet addition to the festival this year is the 2nd Annual West Coast Chowder Competition. Professional chefs from the Western Coast will come to compete and chowder lovers will pay homage to their special creations. This year chefs from Seattle, San Francisco, Portland, and other chowder known destinations will be landing in Monterey to compete against the local titans of chowder. All competitors will be trying to slay the judge’s tongues with their creations, take home the prize money and boast of their achievement in what is expected to be one of the most impressive competitions around. Clam, Seafood and Creative Chowders are the categories that make up the contest and the big copper pot award goes to the people’s choice along with a cash prize. Guests can sample or buy a cup of chowder of their entries and pick their own personal favorites and compare their palettes to the judges. Wines that pair with chowders will also be available to sample.
Tickets online at http://www.montereywine.com
Like our Facebook pages: Monterey Wine Festival Company, & West Coast Chowder Competition.
Twitter: Montereywinefes