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Wine & Spirit Tasting Hosted By Bernards Township PBA 357

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/29 .. tasting-hosted-by-bernards-township-pba-357.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, September 29th 2025 at 17:03 GMT by Patch
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Wine‑and‑Spirit Soirée Brings Basking Ridge Together

Bernards Township’s Parks & Rec Association (PBA) recently hosted an engaging wine‑and‑spirit tasting event that drew a diverse crowd of locals, hospitality professionals, and wine enthusiasts. The gathering—organized by the PBA in partnership with several regional wineries and distilleries—celebrated the community’s growing appreciation for artisanal beverages and highlighted the township’s commitment to fostering local culture and economic vitality.

A Community‑Centric Celebration

The event, held at the Basking Ridge Community Center, was a thoughtfully curated experience that spanned several hours and featured a mix of wines, spirits, and educational talks. According to the Patch article, the PBA’s goal was “to create a welcoming space where residents could taste, learn, and connect with the artisans behind their favorite drinks.” The PBA, known for its outreach and recreation programming, has long sought to strengthen community ties through culturally relevant events; this tasting was no exception.

Attendance was strong, with a line that stretched into the parking lot before the doors opened. Ticketing was handled on a first‑come, first‑served basis, and a portion of the proceeds was earmarked for future PBA recreation projects. The event’s open‑air layout—tables set up in a semicircle with a backdrop of local art—encouraged conversation among guests, from casual wine lovers to seasoned connoisseurs.

Diverse Lineup of Local Tastings

The core of the evening was a selection of twelve curated tastings that showcased both traditional and contemporary flavors. Here’s an overview of the tasting stations:

1. Basking Ridge Vineyards – 2019 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
   A robust, deep‑colored red that received praise for its nuanced oak aging and ripe blackberry undertones.

2. Riverdale Distillery – Hand‑crafted Gin
   A botanical‑heavy gin featuring juniper, coriander, and a subtle hint of citrus peel. The distiller explained the unique dry‑cure process used in the production.

3. East Coast Whiskey Co. – Single‑Barrel Rye
   Guests were treated to a rye whiskey aged for 14 months in charred oak barrels, described as “smoky with a gentle pepper finish.”

4. Island Rum Collective – Aged Light Rum
   This amber‑colored rum was noted for its mellow molasses flavor balanced with a tropical fruit aftertaste.

5. Sierra Vineyard – Sparkling Rosé
   A crisp, refreshing rosé that proved a popular palate cleanser between heavier tasting sessions.

6. Mountain Spirits – Artisan Vodka
   A smooth, grain‑based vodka highlighted for its clean finish and versatility in mixed drinks.

7. Valley Cellars – Petite Sirah
   A bold, peppery red that demonstrated the region’s capacity for bold varietals.

8. Coastal Distillery – Spiced Bourbon
   The bourbon carried notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle pepper kick, finished with a hint of smoked oak.

9. Brookfield Wine – Late‑Harvest Riesling
   This sweet, honeyed Riesling offered a fragrant bouquet and a balancing acidity that kept the palate refreshed.

10. Oak Hollow – Cask‑Strength Scotch
    The Scotch was celebrated for its smoky aroma, robust flavor, and a long, lingering finish.

11. Summit Spirits – Small‑Batch Tequila
    The tequila was 100% agave, offering earthy undertones complemented by a mellow citrus aftertaste.

12. Lakeside Wine – Blended Zinfandel
    A smooth, fruit‑forward Zinfandel with notes of black cherry and pepper that finished the tasting lineup.

At each station, a representative—winemaker, distiller, or knowledgeable sommelier—was on hand to provide background on the beverage’s origin, production techniques, and tasting notes. Guests were encouraged to compare flavors, ask questions, and even suggest pairings.

Education, Entertainment, and Economic Boost

The event was more than a tasting; it was an educational forum. The PBA arranged a short talk on “The Art of Spirit Making” delivered by a local distiller, followed by a guided tour of the nearest distillery’s production floor, giving attendees an exclusive glimpse into the craft behind the cocktails. A tasting guide booklet was distributed, which contained detailed notes, food pairing suggestions, and a brief history of each producer.

Beyond education, the PBA noted that events like this help stimulate local economic activity. “By showcasing local producers, we’re not only giving residents a taste of homegrown quality, but also supporting the artisans who pour their heart into their craft,” the PBA spokesperson said. The Patch article quotes the spokesperson as saying, “We hope to set a precedent for more community-driven, local‑focused events in the future.”

The event also incorporated a small market area where local food vendors offered small plates—cheese boards, charcuterie, and artisanal breads—designed to complement the wines and spirits. Many of the vendors were new, providing an avenue for local food entrepreneurs to reach a broader audience.

Community Reception and Future Plans

The article highlighted overwhelmingly positive responses from attendees. Many praised the PBA for creating a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere that encouraged conversation and exploration. Social media posts from the night featured “cheery selfies” with the various tasting stations, and several patrons posted short video reviews of their favorite drinks.

Looking ahead, the PBA announced plans to make the tasting an annual event, rotating the featured producers to keep the experience fresh and inclusive of even more local artisans. The article also mentioned that the PBA is exploring partnership opportunities with nearby schools and community organizations to offer educational workshops for students and adults alike.

Bottom Line

The wine‑and‑spirit tasting hosted by Bernards Township’s Parks & Rec Association turned out to be a vibrant showcase of local flavor, community engagement, and economic support. By bringing together wineries, distilleries, and the public in a relaxed, educational setting, the PBA demonstrated how a well‑executed event can celebrate regional identity, provide a platform for artisans, and foster a stronger, more connected community. The success of the evening has set the stage for future initiatives that will continue to highlight Basking Ridge’s growing reputation as a hub for artisanal beverages and cultural enrichment.