Discovering Delights at the Monterey Winegrowers Celebration
As I stepped out of my car, the cool, crisp air of Monterey County enveloped me. The 30th Annual Monterey Winegrowers Celebration was in full swing, and I couldn’t wait to dive into the sea of flavors that awaited me. Like a kid in a candy store, I eagerly made my way through the throngs of eager sippers, ready to embark on a journey of taste and discovery.
Edible Monterey Bay had the scoop on the highlights, and I was determined to uncover them all. From the “righteous rosés” to the “rapturous Chards,” the lineup of wines promised to tantalize my palate.
As I made my way through the bustling event, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the crowd. Winemakers, foodies, and enthusiasts alike were united in their pursuit of the perfect sip, and the air was thick with the aroma of freshly poured vintages.
Savoring the Standouts
One wine that immediately caught my attention was the Albatross Ridge 2019 Cuvee Beaudry Chardonnay. As I swirled the golden liquid in my glass, the intense and soaring notes danced on my tongue, perfectly balanced by the seasoned French oak barrels. It was a masterful expression of the region’s terroir, and I couldn’t help but wonder about the story behind this captivating wine.
Next, I found myself mesmerized by the Albatross Ridge 2021 Cuvee Owen Pinot Noir. This pure Pommard clone Pinot Noir was bursting with earthy, lively flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, and rhubarb, transporting me to the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands.
As I meandered through the event, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the Bernardus 2021 Chardonnay Sierra Mar Vineyard. This bastion of Chardonnay had a style for every palate, and this particular expression was a masterpiece, with its generous new oak, ripe pineapple, and a finish that lingered on the tongue like a symphony.
Embracing the Unexpected
Just when I thought I had tasted it all, I stumbled upon the Folktale “The Lion For Real”, a delightful surprise that defied all expectations. Billed as an “orange wine,” this captivating blend was a cornucopia of flavors, blending the best of multiple vintages into a harmonious symphony that left me utterly captivated.
As I sipped on this unexpected delight, I couldn’t help but reflect on the winemaker’s creativity and the willingness to push the boundaries of what a wine could be. It was a reminder that the world of wine is constantly evolving, and that the true gems are often found in the most unexpected places.
Connecting with the Community
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to connect with the local community. I had the pleasure of crossing paths with various members of the “posse,” including Keith and Rita Moon of Wine & Travel Magazine, my friends Susan and Bob, and Ann and Karen, former vineyard and winery owners.
As we shared our favorite wines and stories, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie and belonging. The Monterey Winegrowers Celebration was more than just a showcase of exceptional wines; it was a gathering of kindred spirits, united by their love for the flavors of the region.
Exploring the Bounty of Monterey County
The event left me with a renewed appreciation for the rich tapestry of Monterey County’s wine scene. From the delicate and aromatic Albariño to the robust and complex Syrahs, the region’s diverse terroir and talented winemakers had crafted a truly captivating portfolio of wines.
As I reflected on my experience, I couldn’t help but feel inspired to explore more of what Monterey County had to offer. The prospect of embarking on a gastronomic journey through the region, discovering hidden gems and local specialties, filled me with a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Embracing the Rhythms of the Seasons
The Monterey Winegrowers Celebration was more than just a showcase of wines; it was a celebration of the rhythms of the seasons. The event, expertly staged by the tireless staff and volunteers, was a testament to the region’s vibrant food and wine culture, one that embraces the ebb and flow of the natural world.
As I left the event, I couldn’t help but wonder about the stories that unfolded in the vineyards and kitchens of Monterey County, the countless hours of hard work and dedication that went into crafting the exceptional products I had the privilege to taste.
Cultivating a Connection to the Land
The experience at the Monterey Winegrowers Celebration had me eager to dive deeper into the world of community-supported agriculture (CSA) and the Thornapple CSA. The idea of forging a direct connection between farmers, artisans, and the local community resonated with me, and I couldn’t wait to explore the ways in which this model could enhance my own culinary adventures.
As I made my way home, my mind raced with ideas and possibilities. The flavors of Monterey County had ignited a spark within me, and I knew that my journey of discovery was just beginning. The prospect of exploring the region’s bounty through the lens of a CSA service like Thornapple filled me with a sense of excitement and anticipation, and I couldn’t wait to see where this new adventure would lead.
