Page 30 - Westchester Magazine - Wine & Food Official Guide

2017 WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, JUNE 10
Grand Tasting Village
Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
12:00PM – 5:00PM
Price: $85 - General Admission
$125 - Party Line Connoisseurs Tent and Grand Tasting Village
(includes reserved seating at Chef Demos, first come, first served)
*21 and over only
Kevin Zraly’s tips for making the most of Westchester Magazine’s Wine & Food Festival:
• How to tackle the hundreds of wines served at the Grand Tasting Village? First, review the layout and map out your strategy. Expect to taste about 30 wines, max. Go for your favorite types, but also try some new ones!
• Start with the lighter wines. The three major whites grapes are Riesling (lightest), Sauvignon Blanc (medium), and Chardonnay (heaviest). The major reds are Pinot Noir (lightest), Merlot (medium), and Cabernet Sauvignon (heaviest). Try sparkling wines and whites before you move on to the reds.
• Use your phone to take pictures of the wine labels you’re trying. Use a wine app like Delectable or Vivino to connect with others who may have tried your selections.
• Keep a list of the wines you liked. Once you’ve tasted your way through the tent and found some favorites, stop by the Varmax Liquor Pantry table. Order some new-found discoveries or some old favorites. They’ll be offering Festival goers a special discount on orders placed that day.
6. Eroica Riesling 2014 (Columbia Valley, Washington State) This is a joint venture of two superb wineries, Chateau St. Michelle and the German producer Dr. Loosen. Mouth-watering acidity and long finish.
7. Bodega Norton Malbec Reserve (Mendoza, Argentina) One of Wine Spectator’s Top 100 wines in 2016, this is a classic Malbec (100%). Ripe black fruit.
8. Mohua Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) On a hot June day, this is the wine to enjoy. Tropical fruits, green apples, and a lime zest finish.
9. Au Bon Climat Chardonnay 2015 (Central Coast, California)
Jim Clendenen, the founder and owner, was a pioneer in making Pinot Noir in Southern California. A full-bodied wine without being over powering. Lots of citrus fruits.
10. Carpineto
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (Tuscany, Italy)
A blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Canaiolo, this is a rustic style Montepulciano. Red and black fruits with a cranberry acid finish.
28 | WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL 2017
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