I had given up on the opportunity to see Bottle Shock in theaters after I missed it over the summer, but there is one last opportunity to see an exclusive screening of the film on Monday, February 2 in Santa Barbara. Metro 4 Theaters is playing the movie on the big screen at 6pm followed by a blind tasting of French and California Chardonnays in honor of the film’s competitive theme. There will also be a table dedicated to Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noirs to taste and food pairings prepared by Bistro chef Nathan Heil. Our special guest for the evening is Randy Miller, Director of Bottle Shock.
Some have referred to this film as the “new Sideways.” While I can see the relation in the wine theme, the stories are completely different, this story focusing more on a historical tasting that really put California on the international map in terms of wine.
$35 covers the screening and the tasting, which is practically the cost of a movie ticket, popcorn and a soda these days.
Tickets are available at the Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro on State St. or by calling 805-962-1455.
Joanie Hudson, Assistant Tasting Room Manager, Santa Barbara Winery
With the inauguration of President-Elect Obama on the horizon, Santa Barbara’s UniTea Inaugural Ball will be celebrating and recognizing Obama’s theme of “community helping community.” The fundraiser, which will take place at the newly restored Granada Theatre on the evening of January 20, 2009, will feature local music, food, and wine in an atmosphere of “creative black tie.” All ticket proceeds will benefit victims of the Tea Fire.
The Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro will be one of several participating food sponsors at the event.
To purchase a ticket for the event and to read more about the fundraising efforts behind UniTea and Unity Shoppe, visit www.uniteaball.org.
Joanie Hudson, Assistant Tasting Room Manager, Santa Barbara Winery
I am eagerly awaiting the first Wednesday of the month with our new Passport to the World of Wine series now in full swing. Pinot Noir will be this coming Wednesday, giving tasters and visitors the opportunity to taste five different pinot noirs from around the world (this time being New Zealand, France, Oregon, and two from the Sta Rita Hills).
The tasting menu that will pair alongside each of these wines demonstrates the versatility of the grape in terms of matching with a variety of different weights and flavors, particularly dependent upon style. Sesame tuna on cucumber discs will be the starting point paired with the New Zealander from a winery called Wild Earth.
Baked Camambert cheese on crostini drizzled with a nutty pear walnut dressing will be served with the French Burgundy.
Mushroom and Bacon Tartlets will be paired with Oregon’s Willamette Valley Pinot.
Pulled Lamb Sliders will go alongside the Santa Barbara Winery and Lafond Pinots.
All of these wines are served at the Bistro, so it’s a nice way to get a sampling of their new wine list.
Passport to the World of Wine, Pierre Lafond Bistro
January 7, 2009
25.00 per person
Joanie Hudson, Assistant Tasting Room Manager, Santa Barbara Winery
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