The Banquet: a History of Fine Dining

With Paul Wagner

What must have begun as the most primitive communal dining during the Stone Age has now grown into the essence of a cultural expression. And yet, we can trace the roots of some of these rituals back to pre-history.  The discussion will follow the Banquet throughout history, from the ancients to the modern day, with a few side trips to visit Greece, Rome, Catherine de Medici, Don Juan, Emily Post, and Queen Victoria

When:  Tuesday, May 20, 2008           7 to 9 PM

Where: Trefethen Family Vineyards, 1160 Oak Knoll Avenue  ...A new WineSpirit host in Napa

WineSpirit members: $15; non-members: $20.

Includes wine and taste treats in the first half hour

About Our Presenter:

Paul Wagner, who heads Balzac Communications, is a wine historian, based in Napa, who teaches A Cultural History of Wine at Napa Valley College and lectures throughout the world on wine’s historic role in elevating life.  His humorous way of capturing the past brings to life wine’s unique contribution to the history of human life, civilization and the diverse cultures that have included wine at the dinner table and the alter of life. 

As one of the founding families of Napa Valley, the Trefethens continue to define this great region with both their wines and personalities.

In almost 40 years of winemaking, the Trefethens have never, ever bought an outside grape for their brand, a distinction no other American winery can claim.

With over 60 years of combined experience at Trefethen, our winemakers are inspirational in their commitment to elevating the ultimate expression of our shared passion: our wines.