HotCosts attended the 11th Annual James Gang Zin Festival sponsored by Tobin James Cellars on Friday, March 14th. One of the premire events of the Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival, Tobin James made some nice changes for the event this year. For example, in past years, you would wait on a hilly driveway if you arrived early. Since most of us take tour buses to the event, we arrive early. This year, the early gang was moved to a flat driveway area just outside the tent entrance before the 7 PM official opening. It was very cool of these guys to pour Merlot and Syrah Rose wines while we waiting for the official opening. Toby was out there to greet the crowd as well. As always, he did a great job of story/joke telling with the gang.
The wine poured included many of the best they offer including: 2006 Sauvignon Blanc “Sundance”, 2006 Chardonnay “Radiance”, 2006 Chardonnay “James Gang Reserve”, 2006 Syrah Rosé “Paradise”, 2005 Chateau Le Cacheflo, 2005 Sangiovese “Primo”, 2005 Merlot “Made in the Shade”, 2006 Zinfandel “Ballistic”, 2005 Syrah “Rock-N-Roll”, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon “Notorious”, 2005 Petite Sirah “Black Magic”, 2005 Late Harvest Zinfandel “Liquid Love”, 2006 Charisma “Dessert Wine”, 2005 Late Harvest Muscat “James Gang Reserve”, 2006 Zinfandel “James Gang Reserve”, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon “James Gang Reserve” and 2005 Estate Private Stash “James Gang Reserve”.
Along with 3 great bands playing through-out the winery, there were over 20 different food stands positioned in the 2 tents and tasting rooms. Check out this Santa Maria style BBQ ala James Gang style:
Many of the wines were strategically located close to the food stands that paired nicely with the wines. Our favorite way to say goodnight was to pair the Liquid Love late harvest Zin with the brownies. As always, these parties are for members of their wine club and HotCosts recommends this club to all.
