Last weekend we had the chance to attend a first-time event (for us), the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival in picturesque Newport, RI. It's a weekend of fancy dinners, educational seminars, and most importantly the Grand Tastings that take place both Saturay and Sunday. That's where we were, pouring some of our best wines from our Reserve and Collector's Series:

Lot 88 Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Lot 90 Rosso Toscana, Tuscany, Italy
Lot 100 Monster Red Blend, Columbia Valley, Washington
Lot 104 Vacqueyras, Rhone Valley, France
Lot 109 Cabernet, Yountville, Napa Valley

The festival was a great chance for us to show off our higher-end wines. Some people out there don't realize the great selection we have beyond our $15.99 or less wines!

The tasting took place as, any Newport event would, at one of Newport's famous mansions, The Marble House. When guests could tired of tasting they could step outside of the tent for fresh air and fabulous ocean views.

And if at any point the tastebuds tired of wine, there were other options available for any kind of libation-seeker.

And oh, the food! We haven't seen such a well-stocked event, in terms of food, in quite a long time. From restaurants to catering companies, to packaged foods to bakeries, there was no shortage of food to nosh on between tastes. (Which is VERY important at a wine-based event, by the way!)

Newport is also known for its seafood, and many restaurants opted to use that as the base of their offerings.

Steak and duck also served as major players. At an event with any kind of wine one could imagine, any kind of food one could imagine to pair with it was certainly welcome.

Even the sweet tooth could be satisfied (and hopefully alongside some port).

Don't worry, we tried some wine too; after all, other peoples' wine is the foundation of 90+ Cellars! From the famous Insignia to Pol Roger, the champagne served at William and Kate's royal wedding, we made sure not to miss out ourselves on some great tastes.

The guest of honor on Sunday was none other than Martha Stewart! She did a cooking demo and then signed 300 books, like a champ. We made sure to gift her a bottle of Lot 90 – hope you enjoy it, Martha!

We had a wonderful weekend in Newport, made new friends, ate and drank some great food and beverages, and most importantly spread the word about 90+ Cellars and our wines beyond the orange and black (but still awesome) labels. If we met you there, we hope to see you again soon!

Were you at the festival? Even if you weren't, which of these eats looks best to you? Let us know in the comments!

If this event looks fun, make sure to keep an eye on our events page and sign up for our email list so you always know where you can find us next. We only do fun events, we promise!

The post 2014 Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival appeared first on 90+ Cellars.