A Direct Hit

Sunday’s first-ever Treasure Island WineFest was a big hit.

The perfect-sized crowd of more than 1,500 true wine enthusiasts braved chill winds and overcast skies to sample for the first time 200 Lodi wines in a cozy tent.

Around 3pm, a loud roar of jet engines within sling-shot distance practically emptied the tent. Guests with glasses of Lodi Zin watched a diamond formation of Blue Angels soar low in front of the San Francisco skyline.

I overheard one guest say, “It doesn’t get much better than this.”

Everywhere you looked were flyers for Lodi’s Third Annual First Sip coming November 14-15. We’re hoping the success of the event will start showing up in new Web site orders and new Bay Area faces in our tasting rooms!

Meanwhile, don’t miss our School Street Stroll this Friday. Invite some of your out-of-town friends for a special-rate Wine Stroll Package on October 16 at the Hampton Inn & Suites or the brand new Holiday Inn Express.

Take them out to Woodbridge Winery for their annual Chili Cook Off the next day, and while you’re wolfing down con carne, take a refreshing sip of the 2007 Sauvignon blanc ($8) just named one of the 100 Best Buys for 2009 by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

(You can find more of my photos of the Treasure Island WineFest on my facebook page - and while you’re there, friend me up!)