Road Reports, Vol 2003: Hospice du Rhone
© Andy Abramson
April 30, 2003
Some of the world's top Rhone wine producers are heading to Paso Robles for the annual Hospice du Rhone at the end of May, for what is always a highly spirited assembly of Rhone wine producers and aficionados. Last year's event attracted 400 winemakers, restaurant operators, wine shop owners and collectors, while 1,000 consumers attended.
Again this year, 130 wineries will be represented at the annual tasting events that include a library and barrel sample event on Friday, May 30, and a Grand Tasting Saturday afternoon, May 31. Other events include a seminar series with winemakers from around the world, a charity auction of special wines from the participants, a bowling event and even a real Rhone Fete Fest.
In conjunction with the event three local dining establishments have lined up Hospice du Rhone wine dinners May 28-30 with noted Rhone and Rhone-clone winemakers.
The Country French inspired Bistro Laurent will host dinners on Thursday and Friday evening, while Villa Creek and Trumpet Vine Wine and Tapas Bar host one dinner each on Friday night.
According to some of the restaurant owners, the dinners will feature some unusual wines not being poured at Hospice du Rhone. These events are expected to sell out quickly, so reservations are required.
Thursday, May 29, 2003
Bistro Laurent
Paso Robles
Passed Hors d'oeuvres - Four--course meal paired with The Wines of Guigal
Reception at 6:30 p.m. - Dinner at 7 p.m.
Call (805) 226-8191 for reservations
Friday, May 30, 2003
Bistro Laurent
Paso Robles
Passed Hors d'oeuvres - Five-course meal paired with the Wines of Vins de Vienne
Reception at 6:30 p.m. - Dinner at 7 p.m.
Call (805) 226-8191 for reservations
Trumpet Vine Wine and Tapas Bar
Paso Robles
Full tapas spread to include lamb, seasonal seafood, paella, vegetables, olives, imported cheeses and chorizos, with live jazz band.
Wines from Australian Premium Wine Collection, including Dean Hewitson
Starting at 7 p.m.
Call (805) 238-9692 for reservations
Villa Creek
Paso Robles
Tray passed amuse and four-course dinner paired with the stellar Wines of David Powell from Torbreck
Reception at 7 p.m. - Dinner at 7:30 p.m.
Call (805) 238-3000 for reservations or E-mail villacreek@charter.net.
Like the International Celebration of Pinot Noir in Oregon, event weekends like this give everyone a chance to learn, share and appreciate good wine, in a relaxed and civilized manner.
Sure sounds like fun ...
Cheers,
Andy Abramson
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