NATIONAL REPORT
VIRTUALLY TOGETHER ... With chapters being limited in their opportunities to come together in person, the National office planned several Virtual Tastings members could join in. Notice of these (and upcoming) events is by email so if we don’t have your current email address, please send it to kov-office@kov.org so you don’t miss out! The first virtual tasting of the year was on March 16 with Fullerton Wines when we explored Willamette Valley and Oregon Pinot Noirs. There were approximately 60 people participating when father and son Eric and Alex Fullerton shared their story and three Pinots which had been offered at a generous discount for those who might want to order some in advance of the virtual event. (Ordering wines is never a requirement to participate in our virtual events.) Our next virtual tasting was on May 18 when Ian Devereux White of Smith Devereux Winery joined us from his vineyard in Napa! We could only imagine the light breeze, but we could participate in the enjoyment of three of his award winning wines! Again, a generous discount was offered and we had approximately 70 members participating … often with groups gathered together for a meal. It wasn’t the same as all being together, but it was a great alternative. Our International Emissary Pat Pingitore made arrangements for our third virtual tasting which occurred on June 18. Approximately 65 members joined with Supreme Knight Allen Shoup and our Washington State Chapter Vice Commander and winemaker Gilles Nicault of Long Shadows Winery in Walla Walla, Washington. What a treat to have the opportunity to hear their stories and enjoy four wines … all with ratings from 91 to 97 points! With chapters now planning more in-person events, the need for as many virtual events is likely to decline, however, the feedback that was received indicated that using our strong winery contacts, our members would still enjoy occasional virtual events and those are certainly being contemplated.
Summer/Fall 2021
13
