Spring Tasting with Sojourn Cellars

IWFS Members and friends enjoyed an evening of fun, food and, or course, great wines at the home of Kaci and Mark Kelsay in West Palm Beach.  Staff from Sojourn Cellars ventured to South Florida to showcase of their current releases, as we enjoyed  an assortment of passed hors d'ouevres created by Chef Dominic Orlich.

As we entered the front gate, we were greeted by Sojourn staff offering us thr 2021 Durell Vineyard Chardonnay. Glasses in hand, we explored the Kelsay's home -- including Mark's newly installed Bourbon Room.

Everyone then headed out to the gardens to enjoy the wines, food and cameraderie.

Chef Dominic's creations included Cajun Shrimp, Tasso Etouffee, Hominy Cup, Garni;  Caribbean Jerk Meatballs, Mango Chutney; Tuna Tartar, Sesame, Wasabi Soy, Filo; Rumaki - Bacon Wrapped Chicken Livers; Eggplant Arancini, Cherub Tomato; Maryland Lump Crab Cake, Tartar Sauce; Beef Tenderloin, Garlic Profiterole, Arugula, Horseradish Crema; Homemade Spanakopita;  Country Ham, Gryere, Buttermilk Biscuit, Béchamel, Gratin; Canape - Pastrami, Rye, Mustard, Pickle; and Watermelon, Goats Cheese, Hazelnut, Balsamic Syrup.

The wines included three single vineyard Sonoma Pinot Noir from the 2022 vintage: the Sangiacomo Vineyard Pint Noir, the Nightwing Valley, and the Gap's Crown Vineyard.  In addition, the 2018 Rogers Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir was also served.

Two 2021 Napa Valley Cabernets were served: the Beckstoffer George III Cabernet Sauvignon and the Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon.

Throughout the evening, as intermezzos, guest were treated to Sojourn's 2023 Rosé of Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast and a nonvintage Brut Sparking from Sonoma County.

It was wonderful to enjoy an outdoor event on a beautiful evening in early-spring, knowing that with Florida's hot summer looming, our next events will be held comfortably indoors.