The Come Over October 2024 was conceived by wine authority Karen MacNeil, together with wine industry professionals Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles. The campaign encourages friends, family and colleagues to “come over” during the month of October to share wine and celebrate friendship.
MacNeil stated in a recent press release, ”We are living in trying times, and we all know that good company, good conversation, laughter, and conviviality contribute to an enhanced lifestyle. We want to encourage people to put down their devices and share in each other’s company. Historically and socially, wine has often played a role in facilitating conversation, nurturing new friendships and deepening old ones.”
This is what Come Over October advocates, a chance to share stories, be together, celebrate an event or even a chance to reconnect in person rather than digitally. Sharing wine is a great way to achieve that. Launched this month, the campaign has received early support from Wine America, Silicon Valley Bank, Women For WineSense, Women of the Vine & Spirits, the National Association of Wine Retailers, Visit Napa Valley, Ridge Vineyards, Wine Enthusiast, Benchmark Wine Group and Bi Rite Market, among others.
The Come Over October website www.comeoveroctober.com includes a list of events and ideas for fun ways to engage during the month of October. Wine lovers can also follow along on Instagram using @comeoveroctober or following #comeoveroctober.
Anderson Valley Sparkling Wine Trail
Anderson Valley is one of my favorite wine regions. It’s a bit of a drive but well worth it, especially in the summer. As the 100-plus temperatures continue, a trip to Mendocino is definitely on our To Do list. Highway 128 just happens to connect to 16 wineries which not only produce fabulous Pinots and Chards but also amazing bubblies. In fact the AV vintners refer to it as “Our Sparkling Wine Trail.” With each stop on the trail, you’ll find a different producer who takes a distinctive approach to the process. Some innovate with unconventional flavors and techniques while others adhere to more traditional methods that showcase the Valley’s distinct terroir and growing conditions.
Anderson Valley’s Sparkling Wine Trail offers more than just a tasting, it almost guarantees you might not make it to Mendocino. You’ll discover the beauty of the rolling vineyards, the wines, the people, the pace and if you get lucky, a fog bank moving in will help cool you. For questions about one off my favorite wine regions or those planning a visit, go to www.avwines.com .
What’s on our table
Speaking about those 100-plus degree days, where are those nighttime Delta breezes? I can’t remember this many hot consecutive days, can you? I’ve tasted most of the roses from the Grocery Outlet and discovered that Jeff Welburn Selections from Los Angeles is a consistent importer. I gave thumbs up to three and all were 2022 vintages. The rose from Corsica was my favorite. I chill light reds for summer dinners. Two from Italy are the 2022 Bardolino Red Wine and the 2021 Poggio Tosco Chianti. Thirty minutes in the refrigerator is about the right time. In the Bay Area, I bought my first wine in an aluminum bottle called Element AL Wines. It was a 2022 California Pinot Noir ($9.99) with light cherry/berry flavors in an infinitely recyclable, shatter proof, outdoor friendly, 80% lighter than glass container. It is vinted and bottled in Clarksburg and it may not save the world but it’s a sip in the right direction. Cheers!
Questions? Comments? Find me on Facebook or at rgwinton@yahoo.com .
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