Taking on New Adventures

One of the most fun events Chuck and I normally attend every year is the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience, also known as NOWFE.

They made changes to the event in 2019 and we were only able to hit one associated event. But this year, we were hoping to do more. Then, well, we all know what happened.

Typically, NOWFE is held over the course of a week and events include wine dinners, seminars, a grand tasting and Vinola, which is a tasting that includes higher end wines and typically costs a little more than the other events.

Recently, the staff at NOWFE figured out a way to do their Vinola event, only a little different that what we are used to. The mini-Vinola event was held on Saturday afternoon, and it was one we were thrilled to be able to go to!

Held at their normal hotel in the French Quarter, one of the biggest changes was that it was a seated event. Instead of walking around and chatting with the wine makers and reps, we sat at our table with four of our friends as the staff poured our wines.

In addition to the 7 flights of wine, we were able to taste the dishes that were submitted earlier this year for the food portion of the event. It was a super nice treat and great way to feel like we were part of the NOWFE experience. Normally they have the dishes spaced out at the grand tasting event so I’m happy the chefs were able to showcase their specialties.

Although mini-Vinola was nowhere near what we are normally used to for a NOWFE event, it was as close to “normal” as we’ve felt in a really long time. Yes, we all wore masks except when we were drinking and eating, we had 6 people at a table for 12 and were asked to not move our seats closer to each other. The tables were spaced at such a distance that we weren’t able to hear the conversations at those closest to us.

It was truly a great afternoon and I am so glad we were able to participate.