Eat Fresh, Buy Local

On Saturday June 20, Mr. Charlestown Culinary and I made a day trip down to Westport Rivers Winery for the Taste of Westport, an event to support local farming initiatives. At the event, Mr. Charlestown Culinary and I enjoyed a variety of food and beverages provided by local restaurants, caterers, farmers, breweries and wineries – while listening to a local blue grass band.

Here are some of the highlights of the event:

Starfish Bakery's Cupcakes

Starfish's chocolate cupcakes were rich and moist, with a delicious buttercream frosting. Mr. Charlestown Culinary and I were so impressed with the little treats that we left the event with a purchased blueberry pie. (Which was sooo good it was devoured before any photos could be taken!!)

Shy Brothers Farm's Lavender Bud Hannahbell Cheese

Shy Brother's Farm shared a variety of their thimble-size artisan cheeses in 4 different flavors: Classic French, Lavender Bud, Rosemary and Shallot. All four flavors were creamy and delicious. My favorite was the Lavender Bud! Travessia Urban Winery Unoaked Chardonnay

Travessia sampled three varieties of wine: Rosé, Unoaked Chardonnay and Vidal Blanc. My favorite was their Unoaked Chardonnay, which was very reminiscent of Chablis – my favorite white wine. Coming in close second was their Rosé – one of my favorite wine varieties for the summer.
Hope Amber Ale

New to East Coast beer scene is Hope Ales (so new their beers are not yet available in stores), which sampled three beers: Prudence American Wheat, Hope Amber Ale and Patience Condensation Ale. Typically I am not a fan of darker beers, but their Amber Ale was terrific – refreshing with a hint of sweetness. We are looking forward to seeing it in stores in July!