How to Attend Llano Estacado’s ‘Grape Day’ Like the Class Act You Are

One of the most exciting days of the year is happening this Saturday, October 8th. Better than your birthday, it's Llano Estacado Winery's Annual Grape Day. And that's pretty joyous.

I happen to be a champ at Grape Day and and I want to give you some tips to help you enjoy it to its maximum.  I should probably also mention that I am in no way affiliated with Llano Estacado, I'm just a really, really intense fan.

It's $5 a ticket which gets you in, gets you a commemorative glass and a glass of wine. Which brings me to Tip #1: Bring Money.

You are going to want more than one glass of wine and wine is "bought" with tickets which are bought with, well, money. The ticket system is kinda like chips in Vegas, it mentally separates you from how much you are spending. Set your budget in advance but calculate knowing you are going to want wine, chocolate and cheese at the very least because these things are wonderful. Which brings me to Tip #2: Pairings.

I was a Cheesemonger for a year, which means I know entirely too much about cheese and, incidentally, about pairing. Wine is a treat that should be enjoyed fully, which is enjoying it with food. That isn't to say you should memorize the opinion of a professional sommelier or anything, but here's the golden rule: don't pair anything with something that will run it over. So no port and popcorn, no blue cheese with any meek or mild wine.  Also cabernet sauvignon goes with anything so go buckwild and impress your friends with your sophistication. My personal favs are something berry/spicy like a Syrah with dark chocolate or Prosecco with brie. Don't know anything about any of that mess? Then Tip #3 is for you: Ask Questions. 

The folks pouring for you will know many of the answers to your questions and there's no shame in asking them. Grape Day is about learning, exploring and trying new things. Don't know what the hell a Rosé is? It actually has a fascinating history, and the person pouring it can at the very least give you an idea of what it will taste like. If they don't know the answer they can point you in the right direction, which you may need extra help with if you don't follow Tip #4: Know Your Alcohol Contents.

Wine alcohol content represents a huge range, anywhere from 5.5% to 23+%. Here's a great guide to help you navigate those uncertain waters. So even if you know "4 glasses is enough for me", you are more than likely mixing varieties so "4" is a totally arbitrary measurement to how much you can handle. Getting hammered at Grape Day isn't very classy, getting nicely day buzzed when you have a designated driver is. So of course, Tip #5 is: Be Safe, Be Responsible. And I'll see you there!