Last week (Oct. 18), was our very first regionally focused edition of Food Fete, where we showcased an intimate group of artisanal foods and beverages from my home state of Oregon.
On hand were 13 companies ranging from iconic Oregon brands like Rogue Creamery, Kettle Foods and Bob’s Red Mill to lesser known (but equally amazing) brands including Rose City Delicacies, Joel Palmer House, Dulcet Cuisine and Yogi. Rounding out the roster were Artisan Spirits Handcrafted Liquors, House Spirits, Erath Winery, Firesteed Winery, Pear Bureau Northwest and Lillie Belle Farms.
Not surprisingly, the Oregon wines and micro-distilled spirits were quite popular, but what can I say, food writers like to get their drink on! (Just keeping it real.)
The media turnout was a very comfortable 50 or so, including food editors from Food & Wine, Epicurious.com, AOL Food, Woman’s Day, Parade, Parents and Metropolitan Home. I heard lots of favorable comments about the passion demonstrated by the individual producers, who for the most part are small, entreprenurial operations.
The regional approach was so well received that plans are in the works for additional regional Food Fetes in 2010.
