Gastrovino 2019

Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival ad in Journal del Pacifico, Baja, MexicoThis May 17, 18. and 19, GastroVino, southern Baja’s increasingly popular food and wine festival returns for its eighth season with plenty of surprises to inspire and delight the Baja food and wine community. For those who are unfamiliar with the festival, GastroVino celebrates the spectacular quality of Mexican wines and the equally delectable appeal of local cuisine via pairings, dinners, tours, and more. It’s also an important charity event, having raised over $15,000 USD last year alone for local nonprofits.

GastroVino’s illustrious founder and muse, Perla Garnica, has presided over the festival for eight consecutive years. “I’m particularly excited to see how much it’s growing,” says Garnica enthusiastically. “Every year the number of attendees grows, we raise more from the silent auction, and we are able to make an even bigger impact on how we give back to the community.”

Garnica, along with creative director and famed art photographer Kate Turning, and their devoted team of volunteers, have dreamed up perhaps the most exciting theme yet. Journal del Pacifico is pleased to share the exclusive reveal of this year’s theme for GastroVino 2019:

CIRCUS OF THE SENSES
As in previous years the festival will take place in the town of Todos Santos, a charming oasis that has increasingly become home to a diverse community of spirited residents, who contribute to its impressive array of culinary and artistic offerings. Whereas the event was originally designed to bring recognition to the 150-year tradition of winemaking in northern Baja, it has evolved into a multi-dimensional celebration.

For those who haven’t been to the festival in prior years, expect the town to buzz with activity for two days as winemakers, chefs, artists, and musicians throughout the peninsula join together to share their gifts. The venerable carnival that takes over the town each year is precisely what inspired this year’s theme.

“In a way, it feels like the circus is coming,” explains Kate Turning. “All of these amazingly gifted people come together in such a unique and special way. It’s not just about eating and drinking; there are artists, musicians, and dancers who have become an integral part of the event. Last year, we had a number of chefs actually cooking on site, in the plaza. There were incredible aromas wafting through the air as music played and people laughed and cavorted about. It’s truly a feast for the senses and that’s really what we wanted to explore for this year’s theme.”

When the team sat down to develop the poster art, they tried dutifully to develop a concept that explored a meaningful balance between food and wine. “We wanted to acknowledge the marriage of those two elements in a more intentional and celebratory way.” The founder, Perla Garnica, elaborates, “In fact, the Spanish term used to describe a wine and food pairing is the word ‘maridaje’ which actually means marriage.” Art is a powerful undercurrent of the culture of Todos Santos, so for this year’s poster, Turning curated a collaboration with local resident and sought-after tattoo artist, Tomato N Sal and his team. It took them four hours to artfully paint the chili pepper and grape tattoos—emblematic of two perfectly intrinsic elements of Baja wine and cuisine. The skewer was a literal reference to the increase in chefs who cook on site with locally sourced ingredients. There is a decidedly inclusive nature to the open kitchen. The smells and flavors that ensue create a culinary spectacle for all to enjoy.

The overall imagery and tone of the event’s artwork evokes a magical realism that typifies not only an important theme in Latin American culture but also a longtime trademark of Turning’s work. “I wanted it to cultivate a sense of mystery and enchantment, like antique circus posters of the gilded age,” says Turning. “Perla represents the figure of the ringleader, a concept that is both literal and figurative. The ringleader holds all the magic and the secrets.”

And yet, it is no secret that the GastroVino Festival has become one of the most anticipated events in southern Baja. This year promises more winemakers, more chefs, and more fun.

The celebration kicks off on Friday, May 17 from 7 to 11 pm, with a VIP Sunset Cocktail at El Mirador Ocean View Restaurant. Meet and greet the winemakers of GastroVino Baja Food & Wine Festival, while you savor the culinary creations of guest chefs Frankie Terzoli and Marina Garnica. Live music by Grammy award winner Terry Townson, Hollywood composer Bill Levine on the piano and DJ Marymoon. Tickets are 100 USD / 1,900 MX. Limited capacity, so please by your tickets online (gastrovino.mx) or at Guaycura Boutique Hotel Beach Club & Spa.

Saturday, May 18 at 6 pm, hit the town with the GastroTour. Attendees will be given a map of the historic town center and will be invited to visit over ten distinct restaurants. Each visiting winemaker is matched with a local chef and together they design the perfect gastronomic pairing to feature during the tour. The evening ends with live music and a chance to mingle with other gastronomic adventurers at the famed Hotel California. Tickets are 400 pesos in advance, $500 pesos at the door.

On Sunday, May 19 from 2 to 6 pm, the Todos Santos plaza principal will transform into a Circus of the Senses for the main event from 2 to 6 pm. Over 20 restaurants will be serving some of their best dishes while guests will have the opportunity to taste wines from over 15 of the most popular Baja producers. Live painting and performance art will bring the festival to life with appearances by Fabula Danza, international DJs, and the jazz band of Pepe Soza. Tickets are 700 pesos in advance. The evening continues with the afterparty on the sky lounge of Hotel Guaycura at dusk, with live DJ music.

Every year, GastroVino features a silent auction to raise funds for local charities and this year’s event will once again be devoted to the Padrino Children’s Foundation. Attendees can expect to bid on artwork, jewelry, gastronomic accessories, and once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.

From oenophiles and foodies, to travelers and culture-seekers, there is truly something for everyone at GastroVino 2019. Come raise a glass, join the circus, and see what makes this event one of the most beloved celebrations in the region.

Tickets are available online and at El Tecolote Bookstore and Amor d’vino in Todos Santos, The Wine Market in Cabo San Lucas, Pez Gordo at The Shoppes at Palmilla in San José del Cabo, and Doce Cuarenta in La Paz. For more information, visit: www.GastroVino.mx or https://www.facebook.com/FestivalGastroVino/

Spring 2019

Journal del Pacifico Spring 2019, "Wise Woman" by Kate Turning, Baja, Mexico

Spring 2019, “Wise Woman” by Kate Turning

Thank you for all the compliments on the Winter 2019 issue with the El Triunfo cover by Kenny Viese. Both long-term residents and newcomers enjoyed the trip down memory lane with tales of local history and personalities. We are sure that you will enjoy this issue with our annual cover by the multi-talented Kate Turning and her team.

 

 

 

 

 

Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival ad in Journal del Pacifico, Baja, MexicoKate Turning also provided the stunning images for this year’s GastroVino Baja Food & Wine Festival feature. This popular festival (not to be missed) is now in its eighth year. Check out our stories to find out what’s new this May.

In a strong bid to conserve local Todos Santos ecosystems and biodiversity, Dr. Roberto Carmona and his colleagues Gerardo Marrón, Adriana Hernández Alvarez, Abigail Rivas, and Gustavo D. Danemann documented the wildlife and vegetation at the lagoon at La Poza during dozens of visits from 2014 to 2016. While the Todos Santos community helped, Dr. Carmona and his colleagues’ was largely self-funded and resulted in a report submitted to the Mexican government to have the lagoon declared an Area Critica. The lagoon at La Poza is a prime habitat for the critically endangered endemic bird species, the Belding’s yellowthroat. Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures tells the tale in this issue. Local photographers Claude Vogel, Alvaro Colindres, and Kaia Thomson share some of their healthy and unhealthy lagoon photos in the story.

Amor d’vino has moved to a new location on calle Militar in Todos Santos. You will find it just around the corner from Todos Santos Brewing and across the street from Bodega Lizzaraga and Que Rico. Stop in and see their great wine selection.

Rancho LaVenta is a jewel located between San Antonio and San Bartolo at km 144.5. Cozy casitas include gourmet breakfast, cooking facilities, and a unique pool and sauna. Taste estate wines or buy a bottle and enjoy it poolside. Check out the art studio and tour the working ranch. Other activities include hiking, birding and horse riding.
www.rancholaventa.com or Facebook/bajabirding/.

Besame Mucho 2nd Anniversary, Baja, MexicoBesamé Mucho Bazaar and The Baja 100 teamed up for a fun-filled 2nd anniversary party for Besamé Mucho on the plaza in Todos Santos this past March. Stop by the store and explore its treasures from around the world.

Gallo Azul Pizza Art Bar is celebrating their 5th anniversary in Todos Santos, read the interview with owner Alan Becerril in this issue.

And April 20th, Shaka’s Cantina on the road to Cerritos Beach will celebrate their one-year anniversary with an all-day party. Celebrate with drink and food specials, and live music with ‘Los Leones.’

April 26th, The First Festival de Mole will take place in the Todos Santos Plaza Publica. It’s a great opportunity to sample moles from 15 different chefs.

The Palapa Society of Todos Santos A.C. understands the importance that education makes in a child’s life and future opportunities. Read the article in this issue to find out how you can make a difference.

Since December 2017, Over the Edge Baja (OTE) bike shop has been the soul center of destination mountain biking in Todos Santos. OTE stores are experts in providing professional, technical service for your bicycle and they stock high performance dream bikes that you can rent or buy. Over The Edge is all about connecting people to places and building trails along the way.

Have you tried ionized water to look and feel your best? It’s available locally at Pura Vida Health Foods in Todos Santos, or visit www.ionwaterbaja.com

Check Bleu Mediterranean restaurant’s Facebook page for their dinner schedule and special events like paella nights.

Shut Up Frank’s, where the locals hang out, is open six days a week with happy hour 4 to 6 pm on weekdays. We’ve heard that their blue cheese burger is to die for. Stop in and find out!

We’ll see you again with our last issue of the season, Summer 2019. Deadline is May 10.

Spring 2018

JDP Spring 2018Gastrovino cover by Kate TurningThis May 19 & 20, once again people will flock to Todos Santos to celebrate the GastroVino Food & Wine Festival. Now in its seventh year, this popular festival honors and celebrates the traditions of great food and Mexican wines. Tickets go on sale May 3. You can read more about it in our article this issue, and the fun Loteria cards by our cover artist, Kate Turning.

Check out events for the upcoming Noche de Super Salud plant-based, locally sourced, fresh organic dinners at Pura Vida. They will also be having another Full Moon Community Farm Dinner at Rancho Buen Día on April 29. See Facebook: Noche de Super Salud for more details.

Amor D’Vino and Santo Vino have teamed up for an evening of Mexican wines paired with a trio of Chef Dany’s signature dishes Monday nights during April and May on the Wine Deck. See weekly events for more information.

In our Spring 2018 issue, we are celebrating the work of Dr. Robert K. Hall in a fascinating article by Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco-Adventures. Translator Elena Ascencio-Ibáñez has studied and worked closely with Robert over the years; Elena provides Spanish translations to many of his Dharma Talks on his website. I have had the pleasure of producing the three books on Buddhism by Robert and translated by Elena: Buddha Now/Buda Ya, Everybody Now/Todos Ya, and Así Es. All are available at El Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos.

Congratulations to Besáme Mucho Bazaar on their first anniversary! You can see photos from their grand celebration in this issue.

Nomad Chic, will be popping up at various hotels in Cabo throughout April, visit www.nomadchic.mx for locations and dates.

We’d like to welcome The Agency, Los Cabos, to their newest home in Todos Santos–at the corner of Topete and Centenario in the historic district. Stop in to meet their diverse team of real estate professionals.

Pacifico Storage, at KM45 on Highway 19 outside Todos Santos, will be open soon for all your storage needs—RV, boat, ATV and enclosed storage. They also can help you move your local RV or vehicle. See their ad for more information.

It doesn’t matter who you are, where you are, where you have been or where you would like to see yourself–we can all benefit from support and guidance in times of our life. With academical, clinical and spiritual training and experience in Sweden, Hawaii and Mexico, Northern Light Healing offers services to suit individual needs and to help you on your path through life. Available for individuals, couples and groups. Emelie focuses on healing both past wounds, through counseling, and life coaching to creating a future that her clients would like to have and how to, in practical ways, reach those goals. Whatever you are struggling with there is help and support.

Las Olas Recovery in Pescadero is a sub-acute medical detoxification clinic for those who struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. This unique facility offers a bed and breakfast vibe with personalized medical and psychological care. See our article in this issue for more information.

Nancy Joyce is a local distributor of ionized water filter systems. These medical devices produce filtered, hydrogen rich water using a solid 40-year technology with an amazing track record in the health industry. Nancy holds a Q&A session every Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm at Pura Vida Health Food Store and Deli. You can read more about Nancy’s healing journey at: http://nancyjoyce.com/about/my-story/

Also, in this issue, Patricia Baum interviews the filmmakers behind the controversial film, Patrimonio, which débuted at the Berlin Film Festival in March, was the opening night film for the Festival de Cine de Todos Santos and this April,was shown at the 21st Annual Full Frame Documentary Film Festival in Durham, North Carolina.

Casa Sur yoga lifestyle boutique in Cuatro Vientos on the otro lado of Todos Santos, has a colorful assortment of quality clothing, mats, jewelry and natural products.

Going somewhere? Pickle N Paws provides high quality pet care. See her ad for more information!

In the Summer 2018 issue of Journal del Pacifico, we’ll be doing a feature story on Baja Dream Properties. This issue—will cover June through September 2018. Deadline is May 10. Reserve your space today!

GastroVino Baja Food & Wine Festival

Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival 2017 adby McCandless K. Sutton

The gastronomical paradise of Todos Santos encompasses the abundance of the Baja California peninsula in every way possible. We revel in our beloved backdrop of mountains, beaches, sunsets, and the energizing catalyst they provide for such a vibrant multi-cultural community. And then there’s the food and wine, of course.

The land of the chiles, mangoes, avocados, bananas, basil and limes blends with the abundance from the sea—the snapper, shrimp, scallops, oysters, clams, sierras, tuna and more. Combine this bounty with Mexico’s best wines and you have a perfect pairing in paradise. Crisp bubblies, refreshing whites, versatile rosés and a diverse range of structured reds all will be on display for your palate’s pleasure at the 6th annual GastroVino, Baja Food and Wine Festival!

On Sunday, May 7, in the Todos Santos plaza, Mexico’s best winemakers will be on hand explaining about and showing off their wonderful creations. Some of Baja Sur’s best chefs will be featuring their culinary creations, including Tadd Chapman, Dany Lamote and Javier Plascencia. Five of Todos Santos’ notable artists will paint live in the plaza on Sunday: Jill Logan, Tori Sepulveda, Robert Wood, Brian McGuffey and the one and only Carlos Díaz Castro. The musical entertainment is sure to impress with the rocking soul of the beautiful Samantha Rae Band, of La Voz México fame, coming to town.

It is hoped that thousands of dollars will be raised at the 100% benefit silent auction for the Palapa Society of Todos Santos’ programs and for the restoration of the children’s park, el Parque del Misión de San Juan, which is by the original Jesuit mission in barrio San Juan at the north entrance to Todos Santos. Last year over $8,000 USD was raised and over the past five years, the GastroVino Festival has raised $32,500 USD for a variety of local organizations, including los bomberos, Hogar del Niño, the Internado, DIF and more. This year, a wide variety of artwork, dinner certificates, hotel getaways and more will be auctioned.

GastroVino Champagne Girl by Kate Turning

GastroVino Champagne Girl by Kate Turning

Friday night’s kick-off event on May 5, the Blanco Ball, will be a wonderfully elegant evening featuring dancing wine nymphs, sexy souvenirs, great music, lots of bubbles, premium wine raffles, a white carpet with fashion photographers, a delicious selection of tapas, and winemakers mingling and discussing their various nectars.

The GastroTour takes place the evening of Saturday, May 6, and allows for a gastronomical adventure around the centro histórico of Todos Santos. A winemaker is paired with the chef of each restaurant to create the best maridaje possible. After receiving your commemorative glass and a map you’re encouraged to follow tour leaders or head out on your own downtown food and wine adventure.

Also during the day on Saturday, the BCS Wine Tasting Challenge takes place and is hosted by the head winemaker of Freixenet México from Querétaro. GastroVino artwork photographer Kate Turning and husband Steve Jacobi will be defending their shared-crown as reigning Blind Tasting champions!

The 6th Annual GastroVino Festival is sure to be the best yet and the gastronomical paradise of Todos Santos will be showcasing why Baja California Sur is an international destination for Baja food and wine lovers. ¡Salud!

See Events in the Spring 2017 issue of Journal del Pacifico for more information. Tickets for all events are available at: La Bodega de Todos Santos and El Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos, GotBaja store in La Paz, and Pez Gordo Gallery at The Shoppes at Palmilla. For more information visit: Facebook: Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival / Gastrovino Fest Baja or www.gastrovino.mx