Mmmmm...Beer!

So, I finally got to attend our Sontes beer dinner. It was extra-special for me since the first beer dinner I ever attended 3 years ago also featured Unibroue products and that is when my taste buds discovered that beer is truly delicious! After 2 days of fasting, or just eating vegetables in my case, I felt I was prepared for the feast. Once again, Chef Justin did not disappoint: Sweetbreads, lamb burgers, and a charcuterie plate the size of my head! Alas, my stomach was full after the 4th course and I ended up being one of the faint-of-heart. Barb, Paul, Kevin, Pat, Alex, Nelson, Danielle, Ari, and Marcia were a few who completely met the challenge. Way to go!!! The best part of these dinners is meeting so many new people and feeling like long lost friends by the end. I can't wait to see who and what next year's beer dinner brings!

Please allow me a moment to brag a bit...we were awarded Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence! This has been one of my dreams since opening the restaurant. Unbelievably, we managed to do it on our first time around. Thank you to everyone who comes into Sontes and encourages us and suggests new wines and vendors - we could not have won without you & it means so much more because of your support! Now the fun of creating our cellar list begins - I hope to find some real gems!

Back by popular demand are Sontes' Wine Classes. August brings a 3 part series starting with basics and moving on to comparisons of Old and New World Styles. Apollo liquor will once again be sponsoring the wine at the store for any attendees who find something they just do not want to live without. Thank you Ari & Sam!

Lastly, I would like to say goodbye to one of our longtime employees, Ted Larson. Ted started with us right at the beginning and has remained a great addition to Sontes. He will be leaving mid-August to attend school in Austin, Texas. We wish him good luck and hope he visits often when he comes home!