Few cultures are as advanced in the art of relaxed
socializing as the Spanish. It would be silly not to accept guidance on how to
better enjoy life from a society where a mid-day nap is encouraged on a
national level. As a result, friends meet up at cafes and socialize late into
the cool summer evenings while sharing tapas and a pitcher of sangria,
one of Spain’s most beloved beverages. Sangria has been bringing people
together for centuries. And, despite tradition, there are plenty of variations
in the recipe depending on who makes it.
The Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Wine Society is not
above coopting the culture of other countries when it comes to enjoying our
favorite beverage! So, we did! Our Sangria Sip ‘n Share was quite the
success. We sampled white, rose, and red
Sangria, and even a Sangria slushie. To
accompany this wide variety, our members outdid themselves with snacks and
treats to share with the crowd.
Julie Underwood and Kevin Dering won the prizes for best
Sangria of the day, and Susan Cook won our door prize (a 3-liter bottle of Yago
Sangria). Although there was no prize
for food, the chatter around Mary Ann Hirt’s albondigas with Romesco sauce was
very positive.
We’d like to send our special thanks to Bob Dering, your Treasurer,
for arranging the venue for our tasting.
The Grotto Room at the Pittsburgh Masonic Center is lovely, and very accommodating.
Check the blog often for tips, news, and tasting notices!