What: The Periwinkle Foundation’s Iron Sommelier 2019
Where: The Houstonian Hotel, Club, and Spa
The scoop: Game Seven of the World Series did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the 650 people who packed the Houstonian's ballroom for this annual event that attracts some of Houston's most talented sommeliers. Participants such as Evan Turner (Ouzo Bay), Emily Tolbert (Noble Rot Wine Bar), Robert Waltrip III (Yauatcha), and Justin Vann (Public Services) present three wines with a common theme to a panel of master sommeliers, event attendees, and as part of a seated, multi-course dinner for underwriters.
In the end, the experts — master sommeliers Scott Tyree, Drew Hendricks, and Houston's own June Rodil — selected the same winner as the people: Andres Blanco, Caracol's newly minted advanced sommelier. Julie Dalton (Mastro's) and Chris Poldoian (Camerata at Paulie’s) took first and second runner-up, respectively.
Now in its 12th year, this annual wine competition raised over $400,000 for The Periwinkle Foundation's Camps, Arts and Survivor programs for children, teens, and their families challenged by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. That includes support from the underwriters as well as a silent auction that included rare wines, spirits, and culinary adventures with many of the night's participants.
Who: Lindsey Brown and Chris Shepherd, Misty and Russell Roegels, Bobby Matos, William Meznarich, Samantha Porter, Araz Garakanian, Nick Muscara, Amy Allen, Kellie Jenks, Morgan Taylor, Sandra Crittenden, Julie Cannoy and Doug Osburn, Marti and Jack Carr, Anne and John Clutterbuck, Rhonda and KC Weiner, and Alison Cook.
Chris Poldoian of Camerata at Paulie's.
