The event was enhanced by the offerings of Spain's ubiquitous national pride, its tapas and pintxos in the form of cheeses, charcuterie and more! Free flowing pata negra, manchego, idiazabal, marconas, croquetas, aceitunas and delectable other treats provided by none other than one of Spain's own culinary sons, José Andrés, friend and colleague of the late Anthony Bourdain, here at his Bazaar restaurant on the same premises. Many other purveyors of Spanish gourmets added to the palatable experience. A newcomer to this scene was a Syrah offering from Costa Azul, for those who wonder what Spain is doing with this Rhone Valley varietal.
It was surreal to be once again reunited with old friends and colleagues, a mix & match of members of the press, importers, distributors, restauranteurs and more, sharing our love of this fine
representation of Spain's world class wine values. Pictured are some "newcomers' to this Los Angeles
scene in hopes that they will become available to the wine loving masses.
I was able to meet up again with Antonio Martinez of Antalva Spanish Wine Imports, who is spearheading the introduction of his amazing portfolio of wines to the U.S. and California in particular. Another gem bringing the food wonders of Spain to California that i was happy to "reunite" with were Doña Juana & my friends at La Española Imports in Harbor City who make any Spanish "expatriate" dreams come true with provisions from La 'Plus Ultra". I embraced another old friend, Michael Miller of Golden State WIne Company in Van Nuys, whom I have had the pleasure of working with sharing his portfolio to a number of events in Thousand Oaks.
On another note, it was a challenge to make it to and from the event as the 101 was overwhelmed by traffic anomalies due to the procession of one of Ventura County's Finest, fallen deputy Ron Helus from the Borderline Bar & Grill shooting and then the latest fire disasters hitting California. My heart goes out to all of the victims and their families.
Yes, it was a bittersweet time but i hope to share more great wine values coming your way in the immediate future. Remember the words of the late Robert Mondavi;
On another note, it was a challenge to make it to and from the event as the 101 was overwhelmed by traffic anomalies due to the procession of one of Ventura County's Finest, fallen deputy Ron Helus from the Borderline Bar & Grill shooting and then the latest fire disasters hitting California. My heart goes out to all of the victims and their families.
Yes, it was a bittersweet time but i hope to share more great wine values coming your way in the immediate future. Remember the words of the late Robert Mondavi;
"Wine to me is Passion. It is family and friends. Its warmth of heart and generosity of spirit. Wine is art. Its culture. Its the essence of civilization and the art of living.
