Lompoc, CA (August 28, 2019) – Harvest is fast approaching and the excitement is palpable. Flying Goat Cellars is eager to share their 20th harvest with the wine-loving community. To commemorate the anniversary, Flying Goat will host its annual Harvest Lunch and Barrel Tasting at the winery on Saturday, September 14, from 11:30am – 2:30pm. Wine Club members and prospective members will have a sneak peek into harvest, sample upcoming wines and new releases, as well as enjoy a delicious lunch.
Norm Yost was the winemaker at Foley Estates Vineyard and Winery when he harvested his first vintage for Flying Goat Cellars in 2000. After just a couple years of making wine in Santa Barbara County, Yost was inspired to purchase four tons of fruit to make his own expression of Pinot Noir. Then-owner of Presidio Winery Doug Braun made an enticing offer with fruit from Santa Maria Hills Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley AVA. “I even surprised myself with the impulsive purchase,” said Yost. Flying Goat Cellars first vintage was released in April 2002 at the Santa Barbara County Vintners Festival.
Flying Goat begins its 20th harvest this week with Pinot Noir from Rio Vista Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills AVA. The fruit will be crafted into 2019 Goat Bubbles Brut Cuvée sparkling wine. The fruit for sparklers is picked at lower sugar levels than still wine so typically comes in a few weeks earlier. In 2005, Flying Goat launched an in-house méthode champenoise sparkling wine program and produces five distinct expressions of bubbles.
The 20th harvest celebration will be an intimate affair with winemaker Norm Yost, partner/wife Kate Griffith and their pooch Cooper. They invite you to indulge in the seductive aromas of fermenting Pinot Noir, feel a part of harvest and pick up a September Wine Club allocation. You may also blend your own cuvée. The wines will be paired with tasty vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Flying Goat winery is located at 1251 West Laurel Avenue in Lompoc, and not to be confused with the tasting room in the Wine Ghetto.
Wine Club members may purchase up to 4 tickets for the exclusive price of $25.00 per person! Prospective or non-members may purchase tickets for $50.00 per person. Purchase tickets at https://flyinggoatcellars.com/products/20th-harvest-lunch-barrel-tasting.
