Since wine is considered to be a journey of discovery, it’s no surprise that in the Santa Clarita Valley all paths lead to the Loose Goose Wine Festival in Bridgeport Park, Valencia, October 6 and 7. Vineyards travel near, far, and from all points in between to pour some of today’s top wines, along with some surprising newcomers, as the festival returns for its third edition.
Sampling wines from a preferred mix of large, medium and smaller up-and-coming vineyards, festivalgoers have an opportunity to taste wines from California, domestic and international vineyards. From hip and trendy vineyards just entering the marketplace to established growers and family wineries well known for their world-acclaimed wines, there is a wide variety and diverse mix to sample.
“Each vineyard has their own unique story to tell and it’s those stories that bring the wines to life,” said Peter Goossens, founder and namesake of the festival.
One story lies on the outskirts of Santa Clarita at a vineyard straddling the San Andres Fault. Leona Valley Winery returns as this year’s Introducing Sponsor bringing forth a boutique winery that’s steeped in tradition yet modern in approach. Antelope Valley Winery and Cameo Vineyards round out the valley’s northernmost neighbors.
Hunt Cellars from the central coast region is the featured vintner at the Loose Goose wine pairing dinner at Salt Creek Grille on Wednesday, October 3. Before guests taste the award-winning wines, they are sure to hear stories as told by winemaker David Hunt, who lost his sight decades ago yet prides himself on having a palate that notices even the slightest variations in taste.
Another vintner will travel further than all others. Dragon Seal Winery, located at the foot of China’s Great Wall, debuts at the Loose Goose Wine Festival. Situated 75 miles northwest of Beijing, China, the century old winery produces wines in the French tradition and is one of the first Chinese vineyards to enter the American marketplace.
These are just a few examples of the nearly 100 vineyards that will be pouring wines and telling their stories over the course of the weekend festival.
The Loose Goose Wine Festival After Dark opens under the stars in Bridgeport Park on Saturday, October 6 from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. Distinguished by rows of vineyards, vendors and the sights and sounds of a high energy dance band, the night also features a live broadcast by KLSX 97.1 FREE FM hosted by Merrill Schindler, along with a special festival appearance by radio personalities Frosty, Heidi and Frank.
This season’s hot ticket performance happens on Sunday, October 7 as Latin jazz legend Pete Escovedo takes center stage. In a rare family performance, the Pete Escovedo Orchestra featuring Sheila E., Peter Michael, and Juan Escovedo reunites for the Loose Goose Wine Festival’s main concert event with wine tasting from 1:00 -5:00 p.m.
Tickets are on sale now and available online or at the gate. A p ortion of the festival proceeds benefits the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Health Foundation, Brenda Mehling Cancer Fund and Santa Clarita Jaycees. Call (661) 799-WINE (9463) or visit www.loosegoosewinefestival.com for more information or to purchase tickets. Cheers!