Wine and Food Enthusiasts Plan Your Escape



The Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association (MCVGA) is pleased to announce the upcoming annual Great Wine Escape Weekend, November 10-13, 2005. As a celebration of harvest, the Great Wine Escape Weekend brings together winemakers, grape growers, hoteliers, restaurateurs and wine enthusiasts in this four-day extravaganza.

"Now in our ninth year of hosting the event, the Great Wine Escape Weekend has become both the local's and tourist's favorite way to spend a beautiful fall weekend in Monterey County," commented Tamara Gunnerson, Events Director of MCVGA. "This cross-industry event promotes the diversity of the region and encourages guests to experience all that Monterey County has to offer. There is perhaps no other event in Monterey County that incorporates all of the wonderful wine, food, activities, and accommodations in such a comprehensive way."
   
Thursday evening, November 10th, begins the festivities with the Vintner's Reserve Opening Reception at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. To kick off the weekend in true California style, this gala is a must. Guests are invited to take in the scenery from the penthouse level while sipping sparkling, other reserve and single vineyard Monterey County wines as they enjoy a strolling reception of delectable foods prepared by their Executive Chef James Waller. Attendees won't want to miss the magnificent champagne sabering by acclaimed author and Master Sommelier Catherine Fallis.

Friday afternoon, November 11th, continues the celebration with Pairings at the Plaza. Attendees can participate in three educational seminars on "perfect pairings" that will run throughout the day. Guests will also enjoy a fabulous lunch and hands-on dessert demonstration - all, of course, paired with the perfect wines and ports to complement the meal.

Friday evening features the ultimate in food and wine pairing as Monterey County vintners and chefs plan their menus together for Winemaker Dinners throughout Monterey County. A winery representative will be present at each dinner to share and discuss their vintages with each course served.
   
Saturday, November 12th, is the day to capture the essence of Monterey's Wine Country. Guests can enjoy a self-guided tour of beautiful Monterey Wine Country or relax in the comfort of a luxury motor coach or mini coach. The wineries will be treating their visitors to something special; from barrel samples and tasty appetizers to music, entertainment and games. Several new tasting rooms have been added to the 2005 calendar.
   
After a fun-filled day of touring, the Monterey Marriott will be the host for an additional wine tasting as wineries with Monterey County labels who do not have tasting rooms will be pouring their exclusive wines. A silent auction and classical music are also included in the afternoon. The fun continues on Saturday evening with winemaker dinners occurring throughout Monterey County.    
   
Sunday, November 13th, is another wine-filled day at the Inn at Spanish Bay! Pebble Beach is the perfect setting for this event as Monterey County winemakers and grape growers get together to discuss their world-class wines at this showcase event, The Great Wine Escape Final. Guests can stroll through the ballroom at one of the most famed locations in Monterey County while they sample wines paired with exquisite cuisine from the finest restaurants in the area. This showcase event of local foods and over 30 Monterey County winery brands ends the weekend with an experience that one will never forget. Guests can savor their memories from the weekend, stay a little later, and enjoy the signature bagpipe at sunset.

Previous attendees are always eager to comment on their experience at Great Wine Escape Weekend. "It's an experience we wouldn't miss- great people, wonderful wine and I learn something useful about wine and food every year that I come," stated Melinda Cain of Colorado. She adds, "Last year it was port with chocolate; this year it was swirling and sniffing. Who knows what will happen when I come back in 2005"
   
Special Great Wine Escape Packages are available. Many events sell out and guests should order tickets early. For information and tickets, contact MCVGA at 831.375.9400 or order online at www.montereywines.org.

ABOUT MCVGA
The Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association (MCVGA) brings together the talents and resources of members, partners and our community in order to promote and support our leadership in the art, the science and the business of wine. Founded in 1974, MCVGA is a non-profit organization representing over 75 vintners and growers in Monterey County. MCVGA can be reached by calling 831.375.9400 or visiting online at www.montereywines.org.

*Editor's Note: Interviews with Rhonda Motil of MCVGA are available. Please send all requests to e-mail protected from spam bots.*

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Wine and Food Enthusiasts Plan Your Escape