International Pinot Noir Celebration

This is the granddaddy of all Pinot Noir Festivals, now entering its 22nd year. This summer’s IPNC will be July 25-27, 2008. The theme is “Sustainability Without Sacrifice” and the featured winemaker is Dominique Lafon from Meursault, France. The number of guests is limited to 700 to ensure the intimate atmosphere of the event, so don’t delay to register if you plan to attend. For information and registration visit the website at www.ipnc.org or phone 800-775-IPNC. Accommodations are limited in the Willamette Valley so plan ahead. The student rooms on campus are a bit spartan, but are comfortable and within walking distance to all event activities.

This celebration of Pinot Noir is unique for several reasons. First, it is held on a small bucolic college campus, Linfield College, in McMinnville. Second, all of the events including meals are held outdoors. Third, it is attended by more Burgundian vignerons than any other Pinot Noir Festival in North America. Fourth, the mix of attendees includes winemakers, winery owners, growers, wine distributors, wine retailers, wine writers and consumers, all in a good mix. Fifth. the event draws highly lauded chefs in the Pacific Northwest and feature the best artisan foods in the region. And finally, great Pinot Noir flows like water.

If you plan to go, consider arriving a few days early or staying a few days afterwards to visit wineries (most require appointments) such as those featured in this issue.

I will be attending as usual this year and I hope to see a contingent of the Crew there. There will be plenty of opportunity to meet and drink Pinot together. Please look me up.