San Benito County’s wine scene has a dedicated champion: The Thee Vaché Society. Marking its 30th anniversary with a special dinner at the Inn at Tres Pinos, the society continues to highlight the region’s unique winemaking traditions. Founded in 1996 by Joe Postigo, the group’s longevity speaks to a genuine appreciation for this often-overlooked corner of California.
A Celebration of Local Excellence
The event, expertly curated by Inn owner Michael Howard and former tasting panelist Doug Kuerschner, featured a five-course meal centered around wines from the Inn’s extensive collection. The highlight was a 2022 Harvester Estrella District Cabernet Sauvignon, which secured first place in the tasting. This demonstrates the quality produced in the region.
The Menu: A Culinary Pairing
The meticulously planned menu offered a delightful exploration of flavors, perfectly complementing each wine. Guests enjoyed:
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Appetizer:
Sun-dried tomato & basil chèvre spread with garlic crostini
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Salad:
The Classic Tres Pinos house salad – iceberg lettuce wedge topped with olives, tomatoes, house vinaigrette, and blue cheese crumbles
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Intermezzo:
Lemon sorbet with local berry-infused balsamic vinegar
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Entrée:
Oak wood flame-grilled 12 oz New York steak, served medium rare with a fresh sautéed button mushroom veal stock reduction, accompanied by Asiago baked scalloped potatoes and sautéed green beans
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Dessert:
Vanilla bean crème brulee, accompanied with macerated berries, fresh whipped cream, and homegrown sun-dried tomato & basil chèvre with crostini
The Cardinal System: A Continuous Challenge
The Thee Vaché Society operates under a structured “cardinal” ranking system. This provides a consistent challenge for members, encouraging ongoing exploration and appreciation of the wines. The dinner itself was just one of many events, showcasing the group’s commitment to highlighting local vintages and traditions.
Looking Ahead
Joe Postigo reflected on the society’s journey, stating, “It’s a tradition now, you know? We started with a basic idea, and Doug said, ‘I know people.’ Mike said, ‘I have people here at the restaurant that would like to do a gentleman’s thing.’ And I said, ‘Well, I have the winery, I have the place, and the chef.'”
What This Means for Consumers
This event underscores San Benito County’s potential as a premium wine region. The Thee Vaché Society’s ongoing efforts to promote local wines provide opportunities for consumers to discover unique and high-quality wines often overlooked by mainstream markets. The focused approach of the society ensures that the area’s best wines receive the attention they deserve.
Pros and Cons
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Pros:
The society’s activities introduce consumers to lesser-known wine regions. The structured ranking system promotes continuous learning and exploration. It supports local producers and preserves winemaking traditions.
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Cons:
San Benito County’s wine production is relatively small, limiting availability and potentially leading to higher prices compared to more established regions.
