Saturday, May 5, 2012

Cinco de Mayo in Manton: "Cinco de Wino" Celebrations

Today is May 5th, remembered in Mexico as the day, exactly 150 years ago today, that a small band of soldiers from the Mexican army defeated a much larger group of French soldiers in the city of Puebla, about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City. It's a "David versus Goliath" story, a demonstration of the lesson that "even though outnumbered, if your heart is pure and your cause is just, you can triumph over evil." In Puebla today there will be many celebrations of this auspicious sesquincentennial including bullfights, mole poblano cook-offs, an international music festival and a grand parade featuring Mexican President Felipe Calderon. After dark the fireworks and carnivals will continue well into the night.

In the United States, the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and 70s built up interest in this holiday as a way to encourage cultural pride in the Latino community. Soon thereafter is was co-opted by major alcoholic beverage producers as a way to sell more tequila, margaritas and cervaza, particularly to college students. Since then it has morphed into a major drinking holiday thoughout America, though much less so in Mexico. The name has even been modified to acknowledge more accurately the purpose, frequently referred to now as "Drinko de Mayo."

In our little community of Manton, several small family-owned and operated wineries have come up with the idea of "Cinco de Wino," as an opportunity to draw visitors to Manton to sample the outstanding award-winning wine produced here, now known as the "Manton Volcanic Wine Country."
To further promote visits to the area, a firm was hired to create a "brand" for all of Tehama County. "Reach Your Peak" is the slogan which captures enthusiasm for the area so recognized by the prominant shape of gorgeous snow-covered Lassen Peak and the many opportunities for recreation available. The catchy phrase applied to visiting our foothill town: "Come to Manton for An Altitude Adjustment." That's pretty cute, don't you think? And it's really true. You are likley to enjoy yourself here with the beautiful views, fresh mountain air and fine wines from local vineyards.

Manton wineries are all situated along Forward Road which begins at the historic Manton Corners Store and Saloon. You can't miss it. Heading up the hill on Forward Road, past the school, church and Grange Hall, the first tasting room on the right is Indian Peak Vineyards, open this weekend from 11 to 5. Fred and Donna will be providing complimentary Mexican food. There is also a special benefit Mexican dinner to raise money for Relay for Life, served at the Grange Hall next door from noon to 7 p.m. Alger Vineyards is next, on your left, 31636 Forward Road. John and Linda will also be providing Mexican appetizers to go with their excllent wine in the upstairs Tasting Room, definitely a room with a view and a lot of good vibes. Ringtail Vineyards is up the hill on Forward Road, where you will find local art, great food and big discounts on wine. This is definitely a "party place." On Sunday the added attraction will be horse drawn carriage rides.

All the wineries have prominant signs, so you just can't miss any of them as you travel along Forward Road. Cedar Crest Vineyards is hosted by Jim and Corey Livingston, my good neighbors, who will be featuring Chef Mark's famous San Felipe tacos which pair nicely with the fine wines Jim makes. From there it is a bit of a drive east on Forward Road to access Shasta Daisy Vineyards, hosted by Lorna Knedler, a member of the Forward family, and her husband Carroll. The drive is well worth the effort. Their gorgeous location and exceptional hospitality will be your reward. This weekend they feature local arts & crafts and food. Trust me, once you're there, you won't want to leave.

Have an enjoyable "Cinco de Wino" weekend in Manton and please drive safely.

Tom Knight, Broker
MANTON REALTY
May 5, 2012

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