Denver Wine Tasting a Big Success

The Denver Chapter hosted a unique wine tasting in January at the residence of Aubrey Ardema ’97. As an extra bonus for the attendees, Seufert Winery owner and Duck alum Jim Seufert offered three of his winery’s best wines for the tasting.

Additionally, a local Denver alum and Footers Catering owner Anthony Lambatos ’04 provided heavy appetizers for the group. As the event began, Seufert wine was served to attendees prior to the contest. The wines that were brought were then bagged so no one could see them and numbered to start the actual tasting process.

Here is what Aubrey had to say about the experience:

“We kept track of the three best wines and the least favorite wine. I think next time we would devise a system to keep track of where each wine ranked so that each team would know where their wine stood amongst all the wines.” The winner was Anthony Lambatos ’04 and the winning wine was Next Pinot Noir 2009 from King Estate Winery.

Being such a unique event, when asked if Aubrey would host again she said, “I would definitely host this event again, and the University of Oregon Alumni Association's local Denver Chapter board of directors would love to see this happen again too. We are thinking of doing it every January as a ‘let's welcome in the New Year" together sort of event.’”

“The event was great. It was a lot of fun and was a great way to meet fellow Ducks and taste a variety of Oregon wines. I don't think we would do much differently. It was great to have Seufert Winery's wines to entertain everyone while the bagging and numbering of the wines was taking place. Additionally I’m thankful to Footers Catering for providing those appetizers.”

The UOAA, along with our chapter leaders, is committed to bringing innovative and fun events to alumni and helping all UO graduates connect back to their University. If you would like more information or support for hosting regional alumni events, please call our office at 800-245ALUM.