If you are like many Americans, you probably did. As Walter Nicholls points out in his Jan. 2 article in the Washington Post, "The U.S. is turned on to wine." According to the article, "projected estimates for 2007 have the nation reaching a record 304 million cases of wine consumed." That figure puts the U.S. in second place, trailing only France in wine consumption. Wine is very popular here in Boston, just like the rest of the nation.
One of the most popular Boston area wine events of the year is coming up next month, The Boston Wine Expo, February 8-10, 2008 at the Seaport World Trade Center.
It's a fun event with opportunities to try many different types of wine from around the world. If you haven't been before, you might want to consider checking it out. For Boston wine lovers, this is a "not to be missed event!" Ken attends every year and has some practical tips for making the most of this exciting wine event.Ken's 10 Practical Tips for Attending the Boston Wine Expo:
1. ) Map out the wineries you want to visit ahead of time. The list of attending wineries is listed on the Boston Wine Expo website in alphabetical order. Match the table numbers and plan your visits to sample based upon sections. i.e. Create a list of all the wineries you want to visit from Aisle 500 and visit them all at once.
2.) Check your coat.
3.) Bring your own large wine glass or a wine charm to differentiate your glass.
4.) Eat a large lunch before you go in.
5.) Spit!! It is the only way to try so many wines and not pay for it the next day.
6.) Bring food with you. (Apple slices "for palate cleansing", small cheese chunks, crackers, and baguette slices).
7.) Bring a backpack to collect magazines and other materials of interest to you.
8.) Bring a water bottle (you can refill it).
9.) Bring a pad and two pens for your notes.
10.) Have a designated driver. No matter how much you spit, it's probably not enough. Be safe and enjoy!
Do you have any practical tips for attending the Boston Wine Expo? If so, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you.
Theresa and Ken
