The guest list was long and the wine was flowing during the Rotary Club’s annual Spring Wine Tasting Gala on March 9.
Held at the beautiful Oakhurst Club House, Rotary members and guests enjoyed good company, great food and even better wine.
The wine was supplied from Michigan wineries, and the display tables were decorated with classic bottles of Cabernet, Merlot and other favorites. The night brought together many people, including Oakhurst residents.
‘I live five minutes away,? said Laura Clayton. ‘My girlfriend told me about the party, so all of the girls got together and came to have a good time.?
‘This is a wonderful venue,? said Rotary Assistant District Governor Mike Spillum. ‘The food is great. We have plenty of wine to try and everyone is having a good time.?
‘This is the fourth year we have participated,? said Don Hartwick, L. Mawby Vineyards. ‘I think the turnout is great and the patrons seem to be willing to try new things.?
A common sentence heard among the wine distributors was that people in Clarkston are strong supporters of Michigan wines. Michigan wine distributors participating included: Chateau de Leelanau Vineyard, Black Star Farms, Cherry Creek Cellars, L. Mawby Vineyards, Bel Lago Vineyard, Raftshol Vineyards, Willow Vineyard, Chateau Chantal, Zafarana Vineyards, Chateau Fontaine and Tabor Hill Vineyards.
‘This year’s party is at this beautiful country club, and all the people who come here are absolutely phenomenal,? said Lu Hewko, Chateau Fontaine. ‘When it’s a Rotary event, they make it so easy for everyone.?
There were plenty of familiar faces in the crowd, and each individual had one thing in common: they are all supporters of Rotary.
‘I am having a wonderful time,? said Anne Evans, director of student support services for Clarkston Community schools. ‘It’s a great opportunity to support Rotary.?
‘This is one of the nicest events the Rotary has had,? said Sue Dendler-Kazmierski. ‘The night is absolutely wonderful.?
‘I enjoy volunteering for my local community,? said Chuck Fortinberry. ‘I know so many great people always show up for these events.?
Even more thrilling, was the fact that Oakhurst opened its doors for the Rotary and donated all of the food.
‘I am having a very good time,? district governor Jeff Lichty. ‘It’s fun seeing a lot of local neighbors and people I haven’t seen since the last wine tasting.?
Since Oakhurst is licensed to sell alcohol, guests were able to purchase their favorite bottle of wine, something that pleased many patrons.
All proceeds from the night will go toward the Rotary Club’s general operations, scholarships, Christmas events, parades and all other programs offered by the Rotary.