Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1050740
44 / the tasting panel / november 2018 The white sands and blue skies of Newport's Back Bay provided the perfect setting for the Pacific Wine & Food Classic, a summer festival filled with exquisite food, wine, and cocktails. More than 6,000 people attended the sold- out event, held August 18–19 at the Newport Dunes. Guests were greeted with a Lillet Spritz to start their epicurean adventure before strolling the beach, where they were greeted with seasonal dishes from Orange County's best restaurants. Wine pairings came courtesy of 120 top brands provided by American and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits: From Perrier-Jouët Champagne to Justin Cabernet and Belle Glos Pinot Noir, full glasses served as the perfect complements to the delicious bites. This year's festival also included a Summer Wine Garden, where attendees sampled white wines and rosés; sipped handcrafted cocktails made with Absolut Elyx, Sauza Tequila, and Bacardi Rum; and enjoyed bourbon-infused ice cream sandwiches from the Maker's Mark truck. With a second year now under its belt, the Pacific Wine & Food Classic has already made a splash: In addition to being named one of the top ten festivals in the world by the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association, it was named "Best OC Event" by the L.A. Times' Orange County's Best Readers' Choice awards. This SoCal sensation should not be missed: Net proceeds from the event support Golden Rule, a charity that administers grants to those in need in the restaurant industry. Leanne Chau, California Publications & Marketing Director, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and American Wine & Spirits Host the Second Annual Pacific Wine & Food Classic CULINARY FESTIVALS