Esprit Du Vin…heard of it?? This was my first year going and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It’s hard to go wrong with wine, food, and awesome people…welcome to Paso Robles!
This particular Esprit du Vin event is put on by The Wineries of 46 East, which includes Bianchi Winery, Brochelle Vineyards, Broken Earth Winery, Cellar 360, Eberle Winery, EOS Estate Winery, Le Vigne Winery, Mitchella Winery, Robert Hall, San Antonio Winery, Tobin James Cellars, Villa San Juliette, and Vina Robles.
It was hosted by Broken Earth Winery (Disclaimer: I work for them) in one of their big barrel rooms and was well attended from what I could tell. There were many caterers as well as other vendors intermixed with the wine tables. I thought the layout was great because no spot ever felt overly packed…you know, that kind of packed where you can just feel everyone’s germs jumping on you (yummy)!
Each winery had a cheese specially paired with one of their wines. For example, Broken Earth poured their 2011 Petite Sirah and it was paired with a 4 Year Aged Dutch Cow’s Milk Gouda while Mitchella poured their 2012 Viognier and it was paired with a Paso Robles Goat’s Milk Gouda. I’m a sucker for cheese and as you know, wine too.
Overall I really enjoyed the vibe of the event and would definitely go again. More importantly, I truly feel that these collaborative events are great for the local wine industry. I think supporting one another rather than competing against one another is what this area should be about. Every winery in the Paso Robles area has something unique about it, focus on that rather than what it is your neighbor is doing.
By supporting and promoting one another you will only be more successful. Cheers to the Wineries of 46 East for a great event and to Broken Earth for hosting.
We went last year(and wanted to go so badly this year) and we too were impressed with the vendors, cheese pairing(thank you Zina!) and of course the wine! Also amazed(for being “out-of-towners) that we saw so many people we know in the industry. Espirt du Vin is a great experience but I hope it stays small and doesn’t become a “fest”. 🙂
Joanie, I agree. Awesome event and really loved the vibe. I don’t think this will turn into anything terribly big but who knows. Zina is awesome, her pairings were spot on Saturday night! Cheers Joanie, hope to see you there next year! 🙂
Sounds awesome! Aside: got to try something from Broken Earth one of these days!
David, Broken Earth has 5 or 6 labels, many wines to choose from. I’ll see about trying to get you a bottle or two.
I really like this event. This is our second time attending. The first time was a couple of years ago and it took place at EOS. I like this event because of it’s smaller scale and not overwhelming like the festivals are. it was also nice to meet up with you & Annie!
I totally agree with you, Pat. Really cool event and it was our first time. Hope they keep doing it!!