Wine lovers can escape the ordinary at the Great Wine Escape Weekend, scheduled for November 13-15.
Now in its second decade, the Great Wine Escape celebrates Monterey County’s world-class wines and gastronomic delights crafted by nationally recognized chefs during a weekend of amazing events.
More than 50 award-winning wineries will showcase their wines, reflecting the quality of the region’s distinct AVAs. Here’s a sneak peek at some of this year’s events:
* Palate Pleasers — This event offers two interactive seminars that will run throughout the day and will also include a four-course lunch paired with Monterey County wines. Seminar topics will include “The Dos & Don’ts of Wine and Food Pairings,” and “Chocolate, Herbs and Wine.” The lunch will be prepared by Robert Bleifer, Executive Chef of the Food Network, and Jerry Regester, Executive Chef at the InterContinental: The Clement Monterey.
* Winemaker Dinners — Ten restaurants and 40 wineries will be featured over the course of two evenings, including the signature Wine Enthusiast Dinner at The C Restaurant.
* Guided Tours — Leave the driving to someone else. Three guided tours are available. You can explore the tasting rooms of Carmel Valley, enjoy the tasting rooms along the River Road Wine Trail, or set out on a day of “getting to work” and experience just how the grapes in the vineyard end up in the perfect bottle of wine on your dining table.
* Winery Open Houses — Visit the tasting rooms of Monterey County for a private meeting and tasting. Monterey County wineries will open their doors with special tastings, hors d’oeuvres and music. Guests can select from either a personal self-guided tour or ride in comfort in a luxury motor or mini coach.
* The Great Wine Escape Finale — This showcase event will feature barrel samples and reserve wines from Monterey County wineries. The “Hidden Gems” area of the tasting also will feature wineries that grow grapes in Monterey County, but do not have tasting rooms in the area. Attendees also will also enjoy food samplings from local restaurants and have the opportunity to bid on rare auction lots. Culinary enthusiasts will be intrigued by both local and celebrity chef cooking demonstrations.
For additional information, visit montereywines.org, or call 831-375-9400.
