CABS of Distinction Expands to 5-day Event
After the success of the inaugural CABs of Distinction event, (launched last year to celebrate and promote Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietals produced in Paso Robles, California), and the increased exposure and credibility from Paso Robles being named “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, the Paso Robles Cab Collective has geared up for even more exciting events in 2014. The CABs of Distinction events will take place in locations across the Paso Robles AVA with enhanced sommelier, media, trade and consumer experiences. For more information on the sommelier, media and trade events visit http://www.pasoroblescab.com.
One of the highlights for me from last year’s event was the En Primeur barrel tasting of the 2012 vintage and I look forward to tasting the 2013 this year, as well as the Library/Rare and Reserve offerings. There will also be a vintner panel discussion moderated by Matt Kettmann, contributing editor of Wine Enthusiast and senior editor of Santa Barbara Independent, winery hosted lunches and dinners, vineyard tours and more all geared to shed light on the true potential of Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals from Paso Robles.
En Primeur tasting at 2013 event
Consumer-focused events will take place April 25-26. These two days will showcase spectacular quality wines from producers of world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and red Bordeaux varietals. The weekend begins on Friday with wineries hosting various events throughout the day and winemaker dinners at wineries and in Paso Robles’ most sought-after restaurants at night. Last year I had the pleasure of attending the winemaker dinner at McPhee’s Grill in Templeton which featured the wines of Chateau Margene, B&E Vineyards, Robert Hall, Eberle and Justin. Read all the delicious details of that dinner and check out this year’s winemaker dinner options. Seating is always limited so reserve early!
McPhee’s Grill dinner course from 2013 winemaker dinner
The CABs of Distinction Gala on Saturday will be held at River Oaks Hot Springs in Paso Robles and will include tastings of 32 wineries (28 member wineries and four invited garagiste producers), each thoughtfully paired with artisanal cheese or charcuterie. Decadent catered lunches will be provided by notable Paso Robles restaurants and caterers (Robert’s Restaurant, Crush Catering and Avant-Garde Experience), along with chocolate tastings, live music, a barrel-making demonstration, and more.
Gary Eberle discussing Cabernet Sauvignon with guests at the 2013 CABS of Distinction Grand Tasting
Luxury VIP ticket holders will start the day with an intimate private vintner-hosted reception and lunch at Thomas Hill Organics in downtown Paso Robles at 11 a.m. The indulgent multi-course menu will be paired with select Cabernet and red Bordeaux wines. After lunch, complimentary shuttle service will be provided to the event site where VIP’s will be the first to arrive and taste through reserve wines at 1 p.m. VIP guests will have private access to a VIP Lounge throughout the day, and continued access to the Gala from 2-5 p.m.
Premium-Reserve VIP tickets are also available for early entry to the Reserve Tasting at 1 p.m., access to the VIP Lounge throughout the day, as well as full access to the Gala.
Read more about last year’s event.
Tickets for the CABs of Distinction Gala event can be purchased at www.pasoroblescab.com. The website includes member winery details and contact information, trade tools and the PRCC blog with extended member features, harvest reports and other news.
Members of the Paso Robles CAB Collective include ADELAIDA Cellars, Ancient Peaks Winery, B&E Vineyard, Bon Niche Cellars, Calcareous Vineyard, Cass Vineyard & Winery, Chateau Margene, Clautiere Vineyard, DAOU Vineyards & Winery, Eberle Winery, Halter Ranch Vineyard, Hammersky Vineyards, Hunt Cellars, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jada Vineyard & Winery, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Le Cuvier Winery, Le Vigne Winery, Opolo Vineyards, Parrish Family Vineyards, Peachy Canyon Winery, Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery, Record Family Wines, Red Soles Winery, Robert Hall Winery, Sextant Wines, Villa San-Juliette Vineyard & Winery, and Vina Robles.
ABOUT THE PASO ROBLES CAB COLLECTIVE
Formed in 2012, the Paso Robles CAB (Cabernet and Bordeaux) Collective (PRCC) is an independent collaborative effort of leading Paso Robles growers and producers of Cabernet and Bordeaux varietals specific to the Paso Robles AVA in California. The PRCC strives to promote the full potential of the Paso Robles region in producing superior quality, classic and age-worthy Cabernet and red Bordeaux varietals that compete with like varietals on a global stage to consumers and media worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pasoroblescab.com.