Over the last year we have celebrated the existence andbeauty of many different varietals.There were tasting room specials for Cabernet Day and private events for Grenache Day. There are multiple events dedicated to Pinot Noir (Pinot Days and IPNC) and let's face it.....the New Years holiday is unofficially dedicated to bubbles. Now is the time of the year when we get to celebrate one of my favorites....Zinfandel!
Held at the Concourse in San Francisco, the ZAP Festival on January 26-28, is all about highlighting this single varietal that has a rich history andtradition in California. Brought to you by the Zinfandel Advocates and Producers, a non-profit group of Zinfandel producers and enthusiasts, this 3-day, 4 event celebration is back in 2012 for its 21st go around. With something for everyone and several events to pick and choose from, the ZAP festival is sure to delight the casual Zin lover to the hardcore aficionado.
Epicuria(Thursday 1/26, 6-9pm)
Zinfandel, with traditional notes of spice and blackberry Zinfandel is a great wine to enjoy with dinner. Epicuria kicks off the festival by pairing Zinfandel with food from over 50 local bistros, cafes, and restaurants. Personally I am already intrigued by the lamb lollipop with a Zinfandel demi-glace from Ruth's Chris Steakhouse and Bonneau Wines.
Flights(Friday 1/27 10:30-1:00pm) - SOLD OUT!
Want to learn more about Zinfandel from the experts? This seminar style event walks participants through a tasting and giving the history of the Zinfandel grape.
Dinner withWinemaker (Friday 1/27 5-10pm) - SOLD OUT!
Is further explanation really needed for this part of the festival? Imagine sitting down with Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, or Geppetto after getting your very own Pinocchio doll. Here is your chance to sit down with the people who crafted what is in your glass.
Grand Tasting(Saturday 1/28, time varies)
The festival concludes on Saturday with the Grand Tasting, featuring hundreds of barrel samples, new releases, and premier Zinfandel. ZAP members get in early and doors open to the general public at 2:00pm
Starting out as a grape used primarily for jug wine, Zinfandel has been one of the biggest surprises in California winemaking and now shows up in as many styles as there are wine drinkers. From big, bold, with spice and smoke, to a more fruit forward style, Zinfandel offers a little something for everyone....even you!
Tickets are still available for Epicuria and the Grand Tasting by clicking here. Can't make it? WestToast is proud to have been invited to cover those two events, so be sure to follow us (and Jesse) on Twitter at @WestToast and @jesserandrews for live updates from the #ZinFest.
Cheers!
Jesse
0 comments:
Post a Comment