The Taste of Mendocino brought to you by Mendocino Winegrowers is returning on Saturday, June 10, to the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco. Mendocino County, famous for its redwood forests, boasts some of the most beautiful areas to visit in Northern California, but because of its remoteness it requires more effort to access than Napa or Sonoma County. A tasting in San Francisco is the perfect opportunity for bay area residents to sample the food, wine and attractions from Mendocino County sans the two hour drive.

Taste of Mendocino is a personal favorite of mine because of its intimacy. There are only about thirty to forty wine and food purveyors and the room is always cozy but not cramped. The majority of the vendors, I've discovered in the past, are usually the principal owners or winemakers. There's ample parking on the marina waterfront and the four hour tasting window from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. allows plenty of time to meet everyone and go back for a second visit if you like. If you want to experience a good vibe and the wonderful flavors that Mendocino County has to offer don't miss the Taste of Mendocino.

As always drink like a pro:

• Get a good rest the night before. You'll want to be at your sharpest.
• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water before during and after the tasting.
• Wear dark clothes. You might not spill red wine but others may.
• Once you've received you sample pour:
  • Be mindful of others that may be waiting behind you to be served.
  • Questions are good, but if you have an inordinate amount of them to ask, simply make room for others as you converse.
• Taste and spit... very few people look cool spitting, but you'll remember more.
• Have a good healthy meal before the tasting. Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach is not a good idea.
• Respect others and don't wear perfumes or colognes.

Hope to see you there. Cheers!