On to happier news…

So, before I got all distracted by today’s headlines and a raging cold, I had planned to write about last night’s Slow Food Coffee-Port-Chocolate Soiree at Old Soul.

I dragged the SO along to the event, even though he’s not much of a coffee drinker, chocolate nibbler, or port tippler. The evening opened up with Jason Griest waxing pretty darned poetic about the aroma of coffee. His talk was like a 30-min PhD program in how to buy, appreciate, and enjoy coffee. As someone who has been patronizing Jason’s cafes for a few years now, I have always appreciated the excellent quality of his coffee, but I never fully appreciated the sourcing. I particularly appreciated his discussion of how some coffee farmers are too small to attain fair trade or organic certifications. I usually try to buy organic and/or fair trade, but Jason’s talk centered around the importance of knowing the coffee purveyor and building that relationship of trust.

 Carrying on that same theme was Eric Aafedt of Bogle Winery, who shared the winery’s Petite Sirah Port while discussing how port is made and giving a brief history lesson. Until last night, I knew Bogle wines as drinkable, inexpensive, and “from somewhere in the Delta.” Now that I know it’s a small, family-owned winery that chooses to grow grapes that are appropriate for its location, I like them even more. The SO and I both enjoyed the port, too!

The last speaker of the evening was Ginger Elizabeth, who brought several truffles for us to taste. If you had asked me yesterday if Sacramento needed a couture chocolatier, I am not sure how I would have answered. But, after listening to her very enthusiastic talk and tasting the chocolates (personal favorite: the spicy Olmec truffle), I cannot wait to go check out her newly opened shop. More info at www.gingerelizabeth.com.

All in all, a great experience. I’m more convinced than ever that there are many exciting things going on food-wise right here in Sacramento, and I’m more determined to seek out people and businesses like these three.