Ann Vernon
Twelve guests (including myself) were treated to an incredible immersion into the world of wine by David and Kathleen Eaton, owners of a boutique winery located in the Preserve. The Eatons, formerly from Seattle, walked us through the entire operation as we sipped on a Petite Verdot and a Syrah in their casita. Here they described how Dave drives for four long days round trip to get grapes from a high-quality vineyard in Washington state, transporting them in an air-conditioned van back to Tucson. We then transitioned to the garage where we learned how they crush and destem the grapes and how they “cold soak” the juice from the grapes prior to adding yeast. The equipment they use to bring the wine to life was arranged in order of four steps; grape acquisition, crush, press, and bottling.
Following this very informative presentation, we were treated to an outstanding spread of food, including typical Pacific Northwest favorites. We all sat on their beautiful patio and sipped wine, made new friends, and chatted about travel and numerous other topics before gathering around the dining room table for our formal “tasting and evaluation” of four of their wines—two cabernets, a Merlot, and a Syrah. As we sipped, Dave and Kathleen shared more about their experience making wine.
This event is just one of the many exceptional fixed price offerings that were launched at the 2024 Oracle Schools Foundation Spring Gala/Auction. Many thanks to the Eatons for opening their beautiful home and educating those in attendance how they make their hand-crafted Washington red wines right here in SaddleBrooke. It was a wonderful evening! Proceeds from these fixed price events support pre-kindergarten and other educational programs in the Oracle pre-K-8 school district. The 2025 Spring Fling Gala will be held on March 15.