Harvest in the Vineyard, KC Style
Those who know me, know I have a passion for locally grown artisan food and products. So, for me, it was a dream to attend an event with Slow Food KC, with my favorite Italian chef and at a winery I had been wanting to visit for over a year. This event was to showcase the local artisan producers in and around Kansas City and was held at Somerset Ridge Winery. For more information, check out the Slow Food Kansas City Convivium at www.slowfoodkc.org and the winery at www.somersetridge.com.
Who can resist a potluck?
Not only did we have slow roasted pork -- by the master himself, Jasper Mirabile, Jr., but we were able to sample potluck dishes from people passionate about food and local produce. My personal contribution was my baked pita chips with mascarpone cheese dip with chives and bacon (a never fail favorite....thank you Giada).
Dining al fresco
A perfect fall evening meant a perfect evening for sampling new foods with unique flavors and great wines. I have to admit, I've never been a huge fan of Midwest wines, but I think Somerset Ridge has changed me. I first tried their Chardonnel at Bonefish Grill and we were able to sample that and several others, including their reserves. I am a changed woman!
Slow roasted pork, Italian style!
Thank you J for the photo opp that I'm sure compromised the slow roasting heat process but still resulted in an amazing product!
The finished product
If you're a fan of meat that is tender, flavorful and falls off the bone, then don't bother attending this event, because you get them all. A special treat!
The local producers sampling their fabulous fare
I can't remember all of things I sampled and purchased, but was a huge fan of the flat bread from Meadowlark Acres -- www.meadowlark-acres.com, as well as the infused olive oils from The Tasteful Olive -- www.thetastefulolive.com. I also tried and purchased soaps, spices, salsas, herbs -- you name it -- and had a wonderful time on my shopping spree. For a full list of local artisan producers, check out www.KCFoodArtisans.com.
The Tasteful Olive in old downtown Overland Park
Basil grown way better than my clay pots could manage!
Sunset in the vineyard
