Imagine a deluxe airplane hangar teeming with all the delectable bites and breathtaking wines a passionate gourmand could wish for. Now add fun music, direct access to wine and cuisine experts, and even helicopter rides over some of the planet’s most stunning scenery, and you have the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association’s (MCVGA) annual “Party in the Hangar.”
After the hubbub of the winegrape harvest this fall, the MCVGA will host its “Party in the Hangar” for those who want to experience the essence of Monterey county’s burgeoning wine region. On Saturday, November 10, from 1-4 PM, the champions of Monterey Wine Country will congregate at the Del Monte Aviation Center’s private 20,000 square-foot hangar to pour Monterey County wines alongside fun, delicious dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.
Del Monte Aviation Center
“The Party in the Hangar will be an ideal opportunity for wine and cuisine-lovers to witness the exceptional quality of flavors from Monterey Wine Country,” said Rhonda Motil, executive director of the MCVGA, whose members represent nine distinct American Viticulture Areas (AVAs) and forty-two winegrape varietals grown throughout the county.
For those seeking VIP treatment, a special VIP ticket will include early entry, a Riedel tasting glass, and access to an exclusive “Bubble Lounge,” where Monterey sparkling wines and caviar will be on offer. Furthermore, a Sparkling Winemaker Discussion Panel will be hosted by Steve Heimoff, West Coast Editor of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.
Steve Heimoff
Staged in Monterey’s finest full-service executive air terminal with its luxurious yet industrial charm, the “Party in the Hangar” will be a true celebration of all things Monterey County, including wines produced by over 40 wineries across Monterey County. Guests can purchase bottles at the “Try and Buy” marketplace and pick-up their purchases at “Baggage Claim” upon departure. Over 10 local restaurants will be serving creatively-conceived, delicious samplings. Meanwhile, a new 1,000-square-foot center stage, sponsored by Rabobank, will host revolving winemakers featuring special wines and Q&As with Steve Heimoff, as well as cooking demonstrations by local meat-lover and celebrity Chef Todd Fisher. Fisher is host of the new television series The United States of Food distributed by the Discovery Channel. For an additional fee, guests can also sample flavors from visiting gourmet food trucks like San Francisco’s Bacon Bacon (http://www.BaconBaconSF.com), purchase a premium Riedel tasting glass, or take to the skies with a helicopter flight over the Monterey Peninsula.
VIP admission is $95 and includes early admission at 11:45 AM. General admission tickets are $60 bought in advance and $70 at the door, and include access to 40 wineries and 10 restaurants. Designated driver tickets are $30 and include a glass for water and soft drinks. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.MontereyWines.org.
THE DISH by PSPR 