The sun is setting and a slight mist in the air, the anticipation of the first cork being pulled is palpable. Cue tape rewind … Introducing, the 2016 Steamboat Wine Festival .
Steamboat Springs, CO could be the quintessential town displaying the culmination of the Old West and Contemporary Resort Life. A great ski town, known for Billy the Kid (Skier) 
and lots of snow. But, in the summer it is also known for some great events, the wine festival but there are several cycling events, running races, rodeos and more. There are several local lakes around for camping as well as hiking and it is a great place to unwind, especially considering the winding roads to get there.
Kickoff for the Wine Festival was held in Gondola Square. It was open to the public and my only disappointment is that it only featured one vineyard: Woodbridge Vineyards. Now, Robert Mondavi has a great history. The experience behind their wines and the family dramas tell for some great stories. But, and there is always a but, as an introduction to a wine fest where you are expected to be blown away by the offerings to only be offered one and it to be an easily accessible one or rather a very familiar one, was disappointing.
Enter the 6 Million Dollar Band. You are saying this is the second post referring to the Bionic series in the 70s. Well, first it was the Bionic Woman, this is not my reference but one the band chose and refers to Steve Austin ( played by Lee Majors.) But, I am betting you are still looking forward to the link of the theme song. Here it is: Six Million Dollar Man Theme Song.
There are times when we will question the 80s music, but when you are gathered around a lot of people who are similar in age and younger ones that believe classic rock is cool. Yes, they are calling the 80s classic rock…something is seriously wrong there but that is for another blog.
So under the 80s link, this is a long listen, but the sampling 80s band more diverse than posted above, is a good way to boost your playlist. Need a boost to playlist or a happy reminder of your history – Click here.
Now, it is a wine fest so we ventured inside to Saddles, a location in the Sheraton that hosted many of the events. This place is awesome, if you are in the area, check it out. I didn’t know there was a patio until the next day, but great food and beautiful views. So, here I drank a glass from a vineyard I used to drink quite often but for one reason or another, haven’t had in years. A glass of the Austrailian Penfolds 389 which was a perfect accompaniment to the Elk Quesadillas. Now, according to the site, this is considered a poor man’s vinicultural drink. But, I find that very hard to believe. One, is it was very nice and well-rounded. It was strong yet soft at the same time and for the record, it was a surprising $20/glass. I didn’t see that at the beginning and probably would have not chosen it when the other glasses were $8-$12, but I thought it quite good and a more appropriate kick off to the event.
Penfolds_2012_Bin_389_Tasting_Note_SC
A wine festival is to celebrate the history, the experience, the excitement, the lessons taught and the lessons to be learned from wine. It is an event to celebrate love, friendships, new business, new families and a beverage that has been around for millenniums that unifies us all. There will be lots to choose from, so as always try something new but in the end, drink what you like. Cheers!
How the stranger is inspired
The Blonde Grape 