Brad Killingsworth, Jim Lafferty, Luther Robinson, Eric Korn, Duke Halsted, Barb Robinson, Sue Halsted, Teresa Korn, Patti Lafferty and Wanda Killingsworth.
Teresa Blackburn-Korn
Harvest is the most colorful time of year in Paso Robles Wine Country, and those in the know have long since discovered the experience that can be had while visiting wine country at its height of activity. Members of the Robson Ranch food and wine pairing club known as “Vinamare” (Love of Wine) traveled to California’s Central Coast area to enjoy the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of this exciting season during three days of harvest celebrations. Breakaway Tours provided a van and driver for a six-hour private winery tasting tour around the Templeton Gap near Paso Robles. Stops included these winners: J. Dusi Winery, it’s the oldest family-owned winery in the area; Eberle, established in 1982 and known for their underground caves and hearty reds; Jack Creek Cellars, a small family vineyard that produces 3,500-5,000 cases each year; Zenaida Cellars, known for their wonderful Zinfandel; Rotta, established in 1908; and Arroyo Robles, where you can make your own wine by combining their varieties of juices.
The highlight of the trip was a five-course dinner, paired with appropriate wines, 30 feet underground in the caves of Eberle Winery. Chef Charles D. Paladin Wayne prepared a “Farm-to-Table Dinner” with all ingredients coming from local gardens, farms and water. His selections included Gold Beet Terrine with Truffled Arugula and Prosciutto, Red Abalone with Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato, Syrah Rose Sorbetto, Veal Osso Bucco with Porcini Mushrooms, Saffron Risotto and Organic Vegetables and Flourless Guanaja 72% Chocolate Cake with Salted Caramel and fresh Raspberries. It was fabulous!