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sprit du Vin, an annual pairing festival celebrating the fun, free spirit of a unique region, happens Saturday, January 19 at Villa San-Juliette Winery in San Miguel. Thirteen Paso Robles wineries will present some of their special reserve wines, paired with gourmet cheeses from around the world, including locally crafted artisan foods. The event is hosted by 46 East, a consortium of wineries located in the rolling hills along Highway 46, east of the 101 Freeway. One of the oldest winery associations in the region, 46 East comprises an eclectic mix of vintners, united by a unique location and an attitude that wine should be fun. “Wine is our lifestyle. Wine is fun and not pretentious,” says Zina Miakinkova-Engel, president of 46 East and the event coordinator. “Our motto is, ‘Let’s pop open a bottle and have a good time.’”
46 East presents Esprit du Vin By Larry H. Peña
Each winery is bringing two of their limited production offerings—special labors of love that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss Le Vigne Winery’s 2007 Cuore della Vigna Estate Super Tuscan, and Vina Robles’ 2009 Estate Petit Syrah. In addition to serving as president of the 46 East, Miakinkova-Engel is also the Central Coast Cheese Lady of Le Vigne Winery, and collaborated with the wineries to perfectly pair one wine from each winery with an interesting cheese. The event will feature cheeses from California, Oregon, France, the Netherlands, and everywhere in between. A different member of the 46 East hosts the event each year, and this year’s host is the luxurious, Tuscany-inspired Villa San-Juliette, a brand new member that just opened in October. Like most of the wineries of the 46 East, it’s a hidden treasure far off the beaten path—but also like most of the 46 East, the destination is well worth the trek. The intimate and popular event has sold out every year, so if you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, act now. For more information, visit pasorobleswinerieseast.com. Tickets are available at BrownPaperTickets.com – $20 per person, or $35 per couple. The doors open at 5 p.m.
The Wineries of 46 East Bianchi Winery Brochelle Vineyards Broken Earth Winery Cellar 360 & Meridian Vineyards Eberle Winery Eos Estate Winery Le Vigne Winery Mitchella Vineryard and Winery Rockin’ R Winery San Antonio Winery Tobin James Cellars Villa San-Juliette Vina Robles
WINTER 2013 THE WINEPRESS MAGAZINE
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