Somehow the time goes by faster every year, and it’s hard to believe that the 2016 Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival is drawing near, happening at several venues this September 22-25. This year brings some changes in format, and you will definitely want to check it out. The seminars expand a bit and change venues. New events dot the weekend calendar. Some pretty spectacular things are going to happen. We’ll try and get to as much of it as we can.
Until then you can look over the options at their website: http://www.newportmansions.org/events/wine-and-food-festival. Below we’re highlighting the seminar information from the website, and there are several I am really excited about. If you love oysters then don’t miss the first seminar out of the gate. There’s also a chance to experience California Cabernet, world class champagne with caviar and an amazing five vintage vertical tasting of Opus One. That doesn’t happen every day.
Here they are. More info and details will be forthcoming.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Flight of the Oyster
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The Breakers Stable & Carriage House
Oyster flavor profiles are very complex and are now described much the same way that we taste wines. Connoisseurs discuss the salinity & complexity of the oyster, the finish, the hints of melon or cucumber. Other common tastes found in oysters include seaweed, mineral, iron, copper, sweet, vegetal, lettuce, umami and mushroom. Join us on an exploration of Atlantic oysters, from Maine to Maryland. Learn from Perry Raso of Matunuck Oysters and the team from Midtown Oyster Bar of Newport as they educate you on the various oysters, the harvesting and the subtle nuances that create the complex flavor profiles. The oysters will be paired perfectly with a variety of exquisite wines including Château di Bligny, Champagne, Château d’Esclans, Provence (Rosé), Château Carbonnieux, Bordeaux and Pascal Jolivet, Loire Valley (Sancerre).
Admission: $60
California Cabs
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Breakers Stable & Carriage House
Learn why Cabernet Sauvignon is still KING in California. The climate, the terroir and the elevation all work together to create some of the most amazing Cabs in the world. Taste and learn about the wine for which California is best known.
Admission: $60
Champagne & Caviar
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location TBA
Calvisius Caviar teams up with Taittinger Champagne to present the world’s most extravagant indulgences… Caviar and Champagne. Learn about the history and the connection behind this magnificent duo.
Admission: $60
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Opus One Wines
11:30 a.m.
Location TBA
In 1978 Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi sat together at Chateau Mouton Rothschild. In less than two hours the two gentlemen had created the dream of Opus One: a single red wine of absolute quality that would reflect the personality and character of both partners. The two men imagined a seamless blend of their winemaking and cultures. The first of its kind, the joint venture began in Napa Valley with its first vintage in 1979. Released with great fanfare in 1984, Opus One has since grown to worldwide recognition. The iconic winery, which evokes the elegrance and balance of the partnership, was completed in 1991. While always following a singular vision, the wines of Opus One have been fashioned over the years by different winemakers from Chateau Mouton and Robert Mondavi. Beginning with the 2001 vintage, Opus One wines have been made by one winemaker, Michael Silacci. This tasting, presented by France Posener, will take a look at the evolution of grape growing and winemaking philosophy and techniques at Opus One. Opus One Vintages: 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, 1998.
Admission: $150
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Wine & Cheese Pairing
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
The Breakers Stable & Carriage House
Learn how to pair wine with cheese. Experience cheese from around the world and their unique flavor profiles. They will be perfectly paired with exquisite wines. Take home this knowledge and be able to pair your favorite cheeses with wine that will delight your palette!
See you there.
A votre santé!
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