Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Another Great Big Grenache Tasting


Yep, the Grenache Gang is back at it again, buoyed by the success of their last "G-Night" event, held in Avignon in November. Occupy Grenache will be Monday, February 20 at Bab Restaurant and Lounge in the town of Lattes, 10 km south of Montpellier. My friend Kelly McAuliffe, an American sommelier and Rhône wine expert, tells me it's going to be a blast. 

The event coincides with the first night of ViniSud, the international exhibition of Mediterranean wines and spirits taking place Feb 20 to 22 at the Parc des Expositions de Montpellier. The bi-annual ViniSud is the largest wine event in the South of France; this year 35,000 people are expected. Occupy Grenache is one of many "off" events being staged during ViniSud. For a list of others, click here.

In addition to Grenache-based wines from 35 top domaines in the Rhône Valley and beyond, Occupy Grenache will feature artisinal beer, light hors d'oeuvres, music, dancing and more. The wine starts flowing at 7:30 pm; dancing and beer follow at 10:30.  If you click on the invite above, you'll be able to see the map (sort of). Admission is free but you must reserve. For info or to book: marlene@grenachesymposium.com. 

4 comments:

  1. Sounds like a great event! As a Board member of the Rhone Rangers (the US organization dedicated to US Rhone producers) and a new Vintner myself (Two Shepherds is on its 2nd vintage) I am jealous. Grenache Blanc and Grenache Noir are my two favorite varieties, and the backbone of our program.

    I am in London on (non wine) business, so close, yet so far.

    We look forward to helping celebrate this Septembers #Grenache Day. Perhaps next year I can attend this in person.

    cheers and Rhone on!

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  2. Looks like lots of fun! I'll remember for next year!

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  3. Looks like a great event & just popped over to the Vinisud site, bookmarked it for next year - thanks for keeping us "in the know" Julie!

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  4. Just wanted to let those above know that Vinisud takes place only once every two years. The next Vinisud will be in February 2014.

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