Wine Tasting At The Betsy
 | Author:
Victor Sample
Vic Sample: MT43 News Treasurer |
Wine Tasting at the Betsy
Victor Sample
On December 16, Doug Sitton and Chase Ragen hosted the Christmas-themed monthly wine tasting event at The Betsy. This wine tasting marked the 27th wine tasting. The Betsy was full on that night with people attending the event.
As always, the wine and food were excellent. The wine at the event was supplied by George’s Distributing out of Helena. Vivian Boaz catered food for the event, and the wine/food pairing was terrific. The Betsy Bar area is closed for the event, and Jodi Toney decorated The Betsy with a beautiful Christmas theme.
Every wine tasting features at least 6 wines: 3 white wines and 3 red wines. Occasionally, a seventh wine is added to the list. Host Doug Sitton always opens the event with a welcoming to those in attendance, a small statement about the purpose of the event, and a little history of the event. Doug then introduces the representative(s) from George’s Distributing. This night we had Katie and David from George’s Distributing.
David, from George’s Distributing, introduces each wine in turn and discusses the vintner, the grape(s) used, and what we should expect to taste in the wine. After the introduction to the wine, the wine is poured. Doug, David and Katie went to each table pouring a “tasting” of the wine. A tasting is about a third of a standard glass of wine.
In the past, charcuterie boards filled with food were provided and served buffet style. After receiving many requests to do wine/food pairing, the event has switched from buffet-style charcuterie boards to catered food that pairs with the wine served to each table – a plate at each end.
Information sheets for each featured wine are placed at either end of the table, and each attendee is given a sheet listing the wines and their prices. The attendees are encouraged to rate each wine. At the end of the event, the attendees can optionally purchase wines by indicating on the sheet the number of bottles of each wine they intend to purchase. Payment is made at the bar. Doug will then pick up the wines from George’s and bring them to the Betsy. They are usually there by Wednesday or Thursday following the event.
If you don’t happen to like wine – gasp – the event does not discriminate. If you prefer to drink beer or hard liquor, the bar is open, and you can drink what you would like.
Every wine tasting is an opportunity to try new wines, share a glass (or 6) with friends and to make new friends! If you would like to try coming to the wine tasting event, watch the marquis at The Betsy or ask a friend who has been going how to join us – you will have a great time!
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PhotoCredit: Victor Sample
Image 1 Caption: Katie and David from George's Distributing along with Host Doug Sitton
Photo Credit: Victor Sample
Image 2 Caption: A well attended event with almost every table filled
Photo Credit: Victor Sample
Image 3 Caption: A fun group of ladies enjoying the wine tasting
Photo Credit: Victor Sample
