Hi folks,
I’m bringing some friends down to RRV on the DCV Passport weekend - and have bought tickets for the Passport event on the Sunday.
I’ve been done in RRV and DCV a few times before but not on a Passport or Barrel tasting weekend - and thought I’d ask the Berserkers for any advice or experiences. Not necessarily about which specific wineries to visit (although any input on that would be appreciated) - more what to expect re - crowds, traffic, and planning.
I have picked out about 6-7 wineries in a loop around the top of Dry Creek Road and West Dry Creek road for the Sunday. Is that too many or too few. Any places to avoid - or items on the can’t miss list? The other thing I was wondering was since we are only on the Passport for Sunday - I’ve planned our RRV day to be on the Saturday. Does the fact that Passport is on have a major impact - spill-over effect - on visiting my favourite RRV tasting rooms.
Regards - Steve from North Vancouver
I went to the DCV Passport weekend last year. Crowds weren’t bad because of the price. The RRV Barrel Tasting is $20 for the weekend and is a zoo. RRV should be fine on Saturday. As far as where to go just check to see who has what as far as wine, food, music and decide. From the food/entertainment side last year’s highlights were Seghesio, Teldeschi, David Coffaro & Mazzocco. Armida is always party-central for special event weekends. Last year I heard one of the parking attendents tell another, "If you see any women taking off their shirts this afternoon like they did last year let me know!
Rafanelli’s Italian Buffet is often among the top food experiences though it can take a while to get in if you don’t get there early. Charlie Palmer has been doing the food at Mauritson and the fried oyster slider is memorable. Best BBQ is at Seghesio. Enjoy the view with very good food at Sbragia. I think Coffaro will be fun this year too. The music is always great at Armida, but the food and wine are not up to that standard, though its a good party for the younger set. Been doing Passport weekend for 10+ years, finally gonna take a break this spring. Yoakim Bridge often does a whole suckling pig too…