Get Your Taste of Flavor!

“…exclusive events that invigorate
both mind and palate.”

Spring is nearly upon us and that means the doors to Napa Valley’s annual celebration of wine, food and culinary talent is just around the corner. Flavor! Napa Valley runs March 22 – 26, and I’m happy to report to all you foodies and winos that I’ll be on hand throughout the festivities live-Tweeting and Instagraming for Cultural Weekly.

Tyler Florence
The Food Network’s Tyler Florence brings his best at chef demo on March 24.

Poor me. Well, hey, it’s not for everybody … at least not if you don’t like wine, food and northern California’s stunning spring vistas and crisp morning air … but I’m happy to take one for the team.

Those in the know will be following suit, as we gear up for this production hosted by the fine folks at Visit Napa Valley. It’s a great send off for what they call Cabernet Season (November – April), a fitting lead-in to the busy summer months, and one heck of a great cause, as net proceeds benefit the iconic Culinary Institute of America.

Why go? Well, it’s billed as your opportunity to “indulge your culinary ambitions with exclusive events that invigorate both mind and palate.” While that’s a rather ambitious statement, the slate of activities and participating talent indicate that there will indeed be plenty of indulgence to be had.

Heidi Barrett
Legendary winemaker Heidi Barrett is honored at the Icons Dinner on March 23.

And did I mention the wine?

Ah yes, the wine. Well it certainly is what many of us think of when Napa Valley comes to mind (note: organizers have made arrangements with Uber and Lyft to be readily on hand), but there really is so much more to do, see and feel.

“Napa Valley offers a full spectrum of lifestyle experiences,” said Emily Hegarty, Director of Marketing for Visit Napa Valley. “Yes, the wine is so much part of who we are, but our communities and local merchants really do offer something for everyone. From food, wine and shopping, to art and well being, our visitors from all corners of the globe quickly find plenty of offerings that excite, inspire and energize.”

Ice Cream
Come see what Tyler Malek and Lisa Vega create on March 24.

That sounds good enough for this Detroit man, so come join me as I soak up excitement, inspiration and energy from world-class winemakers, iconic chefs, and bold new flavors. If you can’t make it, be sure to follow Cultural Weekly’s social media, March 22 – 26, where you’ll see plenty of photos and images from a variety of chef demos, wine classes, galas and more. Apologies in advance if a few are out of focus.

In the meantime, be sure to check out all that Flavor! Napa Valley has to offer by visiting their website today.

FLAVOR NAPA VALLEY

VISIT NAPA VALLEY

What are you looking for?