Country But first--why Zinfandel? Zinfandel vines were planted in Paso Robles beginning in the early 1800s and continue to thrive today with over 9% of the total acreage dedicated to this variety. To many, Zinfandel is known as Enjoy this American classic all weekend at the Zinfandel Festival. Now only will most wineries in Paso be pouring their best Zins, but the officla Zinfandel Festival itself features some pretty zinful events, starting with the new RESERVE component, featuring the region’s best Zinfandels held on the eve of Zinfandel Festival. RESERVE acts as the all access Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival Pass. RESERVE ticket holders are invited to this intimate event from 4 – 6 p.m. on Friday, March 20. This unique component will feature exclusive Zinfandel wines including reserve and barrel samples and will be complemented by local wine country cuisine. Guests will also have the opportunity to preview auction lots in advance of Saturday’s live and silent auctions, a benefit that is only offered to RESERVE ticket holders. The Wine Country Auction held on Saturday features one-of-a-kind wine and lifestyle auction packages only available on the auction block. Unique and rare items including winemaker dinners, dinners with a Master Sommelier, special VIP tours, seminars and special large format bottles are up for bid. The Wine Country Auction is also the only opportunity to taste and purchase the 2009 Zinfandel blend, a collaboration of the American spirit among Paso Robles winemakers, specially created by the 2009 blend master, Alex Villicana of Villicana Winery. Directly following is the Grand Tasting featuring vast selections of Zinfandel and Zinfandel blends from more than 40 Paso Robles producers. Local chefs preparing local American cuisine at the Grand Tasting further tantalize taste buds, completing the Festival experience. In addition to these marquee events, more than 100 area wineries will host an array of events allowing attendees from across the nation to enjoy three days of wine tasting bliss throughout Paso Robles. Winemaker dinners, food pairings, seminars, open houses and special tastings are just a few of the activities in store. My personal tip: Tobin James. This popular winery holds its own outrageous Zin Fest on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring more than a dozen local restaurants and endless pours of amazing reserve wines. Zinfandel Festival brochures are available by calling 800.549.WINE, or for a full listing of winery activities visit www.pasowine.com/events/zinfandelfestival.php. Tickets -- All Zinfandel Festival tasting ticket packages include unlimited wine tasting and a commemorative glass made by Riedel. Tickets range from $60 to $120 and may be purchased online at www.pasowine.com. A limited amount of Wine Country Auction and Grand Tasting tickets will be available at the door, provided they are not sold out. All tickets are limited, and advance purchase is highly recommended. Must be 21 and older; photo identification verifying age will be required at time of entry. For more information about the 17th Annual Zinfandel Festival, local hotel accommodations and restaurants visit www.pasowine.com.
The 2009 Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival, presented by the Paso Robles Wine
“RESERVE attendees may preview and taste distinctive Zinfandels from the region, which kicks off the all American Festival Weekend. Speaking to the proprietor or winemaker one-on-one gives RESERVE guests an exclusive opportunity to learn about this unique American varietal,” said Stacie Jacob, executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “Wine enthusiasts will be thrilled with the new elements we are bringing to the weekend, while also upholding the timeless tradition for which the Zinfandel Festival is known.”
