California is synonymous with Cabernet, and Oregon is on the map for Pinot Noir. But Rhone varietals remain in a vague alternative category often relegated to the bottom of shelves and wine lists. The Rhone Rangers are back in San Francisco this June 9-10 to change all of that with their annual Weekend Celebration of Rhone Varietals.
The celebration is the Rhone Rangers’ major annual initiative seeking to immerse us in all things Rhone. Wine enthusiasts have multiple options:
- General admission ($60): Taste over 60 Rhone varietals from renowned winemakers, including Ridge Vineyards, Wrath, Fess Parker, and Adelaida Cellars.
- Winemaker Dinner ($175): Savor cuisine prepared by James Beard award-winning chef Traci Des Jardins and celebrate Lifetime Achievement award winner Sondra Bernstein, chef/owner of the girl and the fig. The evening will also include an auction of rare Rhone lots
- Weekend seminars ($140-$325, including General Admission tastings): If Rhone has you thinking Syrah, these seminars will have you thinking again. In one session, Wine & Spirits critic Luke Sykora will guide you through lesser-known Rhone varietals such as Counoise, Picpoul, and Terret Noir. In another session, popular wine writer Alder Yarrow will show why rosé made from Rhone varietals is the best.
The Rhone Rangers is a non profit dedicated to furthering the knowledge and understanding of Rhone varietals in America. Check out RhoneRangers.org to learn more or buy tickets here.
Photo courtesy of Paso Robles Wine Alliance.