SONOMA COUNTY, CA—This Saturday, Sept. 3, 2011, I’ll be returning to cover Taste of Sonoma on the grass at the bucolic MacMurray Ranch located near Healdsburg among the redwoods in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. It’s part of the annual Wine Country Weekend and offers a tidal wave of 170 wineries and 50 top chefs offering small bites and sips. This much anticipated, annual celebration has it all and is certainly one of my favorites.

Each region will be featured within its own appellation circus tent: Sonoma, Russian River, Alexander or Dry Creek valleys.

There will also be a food-network-style chef competition where food followers can place side bets on who will come out on top. In addition, there will be a winemaking demonstration from vineyard to glass.

Sonoma Chefs Gone Wild…

Last year’s food and wine pairing bit was such a hit that, this year, they’ve super sized it. Kendall-Jackson Winemaster Randy Ullom and Executive Chef Justin Wangler will hold three 45-minutes seminars under yet another big top tent. Tasty tidbits will be doled out so make sure you have a reservation for this one. (Did someone whisper Niman Ranch Pork Belly Sliders with Trace Ridge BBQ Sauce and Pickled Cucumbers?!!)

Also in attendance at this Saturday’s event will be a team of nationally respected sommeliers. Looking for a challenge? I urge you to take part. Four wines will be poured. They will moderate a blind tasting seminar to talk you through the experience. The fun comes in as you try to identify the specific varietals. It’s not as easy as you might think.

Last year was a hit—and this year will undoubtedly be the same!

Proceeds from the event benefit local communities and charities serving students, children, farm workers and people in need. It’s a day of full-immersion, “hands on” enjoyment and HIGHLY recommended to all wine and food lovers!

For information: Maureen L. Cottingham. Phone: 707-935-0803. maureen@sonomavalleywine.com

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