Some of my favorite memories go hand-in-hand with good wine, good food, and of course, good friends. A recent ‘Gatsby’ themed event at the Hearst Castle is near the very top of my list.
A breathtaking sunset exploding with color only added to the dreamlike setting at the historic castle during a weekend wine pairing dinner—the first of its kind at the massive compound, I’m told.
Daou Vineyards, a Paso Robles winery known for its cabernets, orchestrated the elaborate fundraiser with proceeds benefitting The Hearst Foundation. It was like over-the-top old world glamour colliding with modern day realism, and the result was one heck of a night!
Upon arrival to the giant estate, we were given a brief tour of the main house. I loved standing in the spacious dining room with its massive banquet table. It’s where Hearst wined and dined Hollywood stars, business moguls and good friends. If only walls could talk! Word has it he was stingy with the wine, and if any of his guests over-imbibed, they were immediately sent packing.
Outside on one of the spacious, elaborately adorned patios, we were greeted with Daou wines & hors d’oeuvres. Strolling musicians rounded out the festive mood. Honestly, it felt like a scene out of a movie.
Daou’s wonderful wines were only the beginning of what turned out to be a fabulous dinner, staged on yet another of the grand patios at Hearst Castle. The feast was prepared by the popular Thomas Hill Organics in Paso Robles…an elegant four course meal that included fresh sea bass, a rosy duck breast, and fork tender filets. All were exquisite—perhaps some of the best food I’ve seen at an event this large.
After dinner, the real partying began with a rocking live band that played long into the night. Daou offered tickets for this event to its wine club members, and George Daou tells me he is already planning another event! Count me in 😉
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