Modesto wine columnist: Celebrate California Wine Month
September is California wine month. By celebrating the annual harvest of more than 110 different grape varieties in this 2022 vintage, wine lovers around the country can take part in the month-long activities. According to the Wine Institute, more than 24 million people visit the state’s 147 distinct wine growing regions every year and September is one of the most exciting times to visit. With 4,800 bonded wineries, there are many harvest-themed events and activities to choose from. An excellent source of information is discovercaliforniawines.com.
Fall tidrick and boucherie
On Oct. 21-23, Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association will host the inaugural Harvest Tidrick and Boucherie Celebration. Tidrick means celebration in Boontling so it’s a little redundant, but they want to make it accessible for the “brightlighters” (people from the city). The remoteness of the valley is what allowed the early settlers to grow and define themselves in a unique way so they invented their own language of Boontling.
The Harvest Tidrick is meant to be a celebration of the community. At the Friday night boucherie there will be music and dancing, winemakers will be pouring from their full portfolios, sixth generation apple farmers will be sampling their ciders and apples, local brews and libations will be sampled, while chefs offer a feast of local favorites. On Saturday and Sunday wineries are throwing open their doors and offering exclusive VIP experiences. For tickets and more information go to avwines.com.
Calaveras Grape Stomp
The annual event takes place on Saturday, Oct. 1, at Murphys Community Park from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event benefits local community groups and school scholarships. Go to calaveraswines.org to register your team.
Big Crush Harvest Festival
Tickets are available to Amador Wine Country’s Big Crush Harvest Festival, Oct. 7-9. Early ticket purchases are advised. It includes experiencing Amador Wine region hospitality at six wineries per day. For details go to amadorbigcrush.com.
What’s on Our Table
I went to the Grocery Outlet to pick up three more bottles of the 2020 Gris Blancs from Gerard Bertrand, which was the steal in my last column. I also picked out a few more wines. The cashier said, “It’s Wednesday and if you buy three more I can take off 10%”. I must say, I left the store with a very unique case of wine. I’ve tasted the 14 Hands 2021 Columbia Valley Rose ($3.59), the Hungarian 2020 Donausonne Blaufrankisch ($5.39) and the Spanish 2019 Motacilla Alba Monastrell ($4.49). All are deal worthy. The Blaufrankisch is very fruity and if chilled, would pair well with spicy foods. Yep, a case of wine for $64.17. Cheers!
Questions? Comments? Find me on Facebook or at rgwinton@yahoo.com.