The Grand Tasting and Bugatti Parade From End to End!
Mandy Weinerman
All photos by Mandy Weinerman and Peter Lostritto
SARATOGA SPRINGS- Editor’s Note: Mandy and Peter took on a major assignment at Saturday’s Saratoga Wine + Food Festival. The Grand Tasting, on Saturday, September 8, is a load to cover all by itself! But then they went overtime to cover BOTH ends of the once-in-a-lifetime Bugatti parade – leaving Spa State Park and then somehow getting downtown to catch their triumphant arrival down Broadway… I don’t know if they chartered a helicopter or used a transporter beam – but they went above and beyond to say the least.
If you weren’t there on Saturday, they made sure to bring all of the action to you. Mandy also added some comments about her favorite Grand Tasting items as we proceed. Great job, guys! Let’s get this party started with a little lot something to eat and drink… – AG
Gallery One: GRAND TASTING
“This isn’t a food item, but I have to begin with mentioning the flowers – everywhere – impressive and perfect!”
“For me, the lineup provided by the Adelphi/Salt + Char was a culinary Triple Crown! Clothesline bacon, lobster dumplings and deviled duck eggs – you could have started and ended right there! But there was so much more…
“and more…
“and more!”
“Though I love a good glass or wine, saki or even beer and bourbon, this was a standout for those who abstain – TÖST is a sparkling beverage that provides the celebratory air of Champagne without the alcohol.
“Speaking of not abstaining….
“Our local Northway Brewing Co. They drew me in with their creative packaging and names (how can you not try Avenue of the Pines IPA in this setting!) but I came back for the taste…”
“And apparently, many came back for the taste of Ravenous’ pomme frites – often – as Owner/Chef David had to thank his many fans for cleaning him out!
“But, while they lasted, they were particularly delicious when washed down with ‘Saki to me’ Coconut Saki – which was my favorite beverage among many this afternoon.”
“Now this was interesting. Rascal + Thorn – a locally based provider of “Worldwide Gastronomic Experiences” – and who will be leading upcoming trips to Scotland, Japan, and Nashville (visit rascalandthorn.com) brought in some imported Spanish anchovies, in saline-filled barrels, served with delicious olive oil and Balsamic vinegar – as it turns out, Peter was already planning a visit to the region in Spain that these people at the booth hailed from, so they bonded and exchanged contact info. I have to say that this epitomizes what the Wine and Food Festival is all about to me!”
“Meanwhile…demos all around, Iron Chef competition, a whirlwind of action…
“The afternoon flew by, and soon the Bugatti’s would take center stage. But I always save room for dessert! Now, there didn’t seem to be a ton of choices here – but when you have Putnam’s at The Gideon Putnam hitting all the sweet high notes – the battle’s on for a distant second place.
“I mean – hazelnut mousse salted caramel chocolate pretzel crunch – you kidding me! Peter and I both went back a few times for this one.”
“Normally, after a feast like this, a nap would certainly be in order – but I hear the engines starting – 80 Bugatti vehicles are about to dazzle the crowds lining the Avenue of the Pines and downtown. Like the Jackson 5 once crooned: Got to be There! Enjoy!
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Gallery Two, Part One – Assemblage!
“ All righty, then! Time to get downtown. Two to beam up Mission Control. Coffee Traders’ patio please.”
“Roger that, Mandy… Energizing….”
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Gallery Two, Part Two – Destination Downtown
Next: The Corey’s break bread (and tons more) with Colin Cowie
Edited by Arthur Gonick
September 14, 2018
