Taste208

Taste208 is a tasting event focused on Idaho wine, beer and spirits.  2013 represented the second year of this event and apparently 2012 sold out.  If last night was any indication they had a great crowd for this year as well.  It was our first year attending and were impressed with the number of vendors offering tastings; however, I just wanted the following:

1)  heat lamps in the outdoor tent.  It was COLD last night and our group was expecting that everything would be taking place within the Powerhouse Events Center.  Perhaps that was our bad but it is only April, I think as an event host you should provide some heat lamps if you are setting things up outside.  

2)  more food tasting options.  We came on empty stomachs thinking we would be tasting a range of foods along with drinks only to find ourselves stuffing our faces with almonds from The Peanut Shop (delish), olives we purchased from Urban Rustic Gourmet (I can image them on a pizza, they were so good), and then some noshes from 3 Girls Catering (the flatbread and the trout and potato, both were outstanding but especially the trout).  We did end up hitting up the food trucks for food for purchase but I really wanted some small bites inside so I could get a feel for local, spring food.  

This was a great event to check out some local wineries I wasn't familiar with (although many were pouring off-dry whites...apparently the market in Boise is big for sweeter wines, I guess my palette is different but did really enjoy the syrahs, pinot noirs and malbecs being poured) and others in our group enjoyed a couple different vodkas they tried.  I really liked Tieton Ciderworks (dry-hopped,baby).  Seriously, I want a case of that for some summer sipping.  It was crisp and clean but not sweet.

This event gives fantastic exposure to all of the exhibitors and for it being in it's second year is well-run.  They also promote responsible drinking as your ticket price includes a $5 cab voucher and cabs were lining up when the event ended at 9PM.  

I am hoping next year I will be able to give Taste208 a full 5 stars!  I am just happy to see that Boise has an event like this.