This Saturday evening will provide the connoisseur and novice alike the opportunity to strut their wine legs—both the ones that slide down the sides of the glass, giving some indication of alcohol content, and the limbs that will carry you to Highland Village Center Court and then from booth to booth.
Santé South will be in full swing April 21, from 7 to 10 p.m. Over 30 wineries and a dozen restaurants will be doling out treats to captivate the taste buds. Tickets are $75. Considering that price includes wine, food, a t-shirt, engraved glass, special wine plate and even a booklet and pen for taking notes, it's quite the bargain. Not only that, but it's tax deductible—as proceeds go to the Alzheimer's Association of Mississippi, a worthy cause close to my heart.
Some of my favorite restaurants will be present, including Bravo!, Shapley's, Julep, Walker's, and even Purple Parrot from Hattiesburg. When it comes to the wines, though, the choices are almost endless. Tracy Barbieri of Beaumad & Associates kindly sent me the list of wines for Saturday night and, boy am I salivating. Bearing in mind that you might not have time to taste every one, I do have suggestions for wines not to miss:
Consistently solid—Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc (the beginning of my love affair with New Zealand), Guigal Chateauneuf du Pape (one of the better producers from the Rhône Valley).
Superstars—Duval Leroy Brut Champagne (mmm, the real stuff), Beaux Frères Pinot Noir (the Willamette is likely more approachable than age-worthy "The Vineyard," Saddleback Cabernet Sauvignon (beautifully made by one of today's top winemakers).
Perhaps you might like to experiment—Fox Creek Vixen (oh, the rich, red bubbles!), Broadbent Vinho Verde (a fantastically light white, perfect for hot summer days), Guntrum "Penguin" Eiswein (dessert in a glass).
With more than 100 wines available, I highly recommend spitting. I know it feels like blasphemy to "waste" such delicious wine, but the reasons are twofold. Not only will you be able to remember the event, but also winemakers/winery reps will recognize you as a serious taster. Then again, feel free to swig as much as you want as long as you're not driving.
To get tickets, stop by Briarwood Mart or Bravo, call 601-987-0020, or go to the Alzheimer's Association Web site: http://www.msalz.org.
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