Our First Food & Wine Classic Aspen Experience

"Sometimes the best way to understand a wine is to meet the people behind it."

After a whirlwind week of travel, changing time zones, and long days on our feet, we're finally home from one of the country's most celebrated culinary events—the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen.

For us at VNE Importers, this wasn't simply a chance to attend an event. It was an opportunity to represent one of our producers, Bodegas Aessir (Oscar Aessir) of Spain, connect with professionals in the wine industry, and introduce thousands of attendees to wines that tell the story of their region and the people who craft them.

After coordinating by email, it was wonderful to reconnect with Oscar Aessir, whom I had met earlier this year at a Catalan wine event, while Chris had the opportunity to meet him for the first time. Oscar was representing the winery and was traveling with a group of winemakers and wine professionals from Spain and Italy. Before the event even opened, conversations were already flowing—from vineyard stories and harvests to travel, family, and, of course, wine.

First Impressions

U Chris and Shunia at Food & Wine Classic Aspen

As first-time attendees, we weren't quite sure what to expect. We'd read about the Food & Wine Classic and seen the photos, but nothing compares to experiencing it in person.

Set against Aspen's breathtaking mountain backdrop, the event brings together renowned chefs, winemakers, sommeliers, importers, media, and thousands of food and wine enthusiasts for three unforgettable days.

The Grand Tasting Pavilion is the heart of the event. Over five tasting sessions spread across three days, guests have the opportunity to explore hundreds of wines, spirits, beers, and culinary creations while moving from booth to booth at their own pace. Every corner offered something new to discover.

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A World of Food & Wine

One moment we were pouring Spanish wines, and the next we were exploring wines from Italy, France, Napa Valley, and Georgia—the birthplace of wine. Beyond wine, guests sampled craft spirits, cocktails, beers, and innovative beverages alongside incredible small bites prepared by talented chefs.

From delicate pastries and artisan cheeses to rich braised oxtail over sweet potato purée, every pairing reminded us that great food and great wine are meant to be enjoyed together.

Educational seminars and live cooking demonstrations added another layer to the experience, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from celebrated chefs, sommeliers, and industry leaders throughout the weekend.

Sharing the Wines of Bodegas Aessir

Oscar Aessir, Shunia, and Chris

Our table featured four wines that each showcased a different side of Spanish winemaking.

The La Crusset Brut Nature Reserva Cava offered elegant bubbles with notes of apple, brioche, and a fresh coastal character that made it one of the most talked-about sparkling wines at our table.

The Aessir Expression Blanco welcomed guests with vibrant citrus, ripe white fruit, floral aromas, and refreshing minerality—an ideal companion for seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.

For red wine lovers, the Aessir Expression Red surprised guests with its bright fruit, balanced acidity, and versatility, proving that a red wine can be just as enjoyable on a warm summer afternoon as it is paired with dinner.

Finally, the Bobal introduced many attendees to one of Spain's signature native grape varieties. Rich with ripe fruit, smooth tannins, and remarkable balance, it demonstrated why Spanish wines continue to surprise and impress wine lovers around the world.

Watching guests taste these wines—many for the very first time—and hearing their reactions reminded us why we love introducing people to small, family-owned wineries.

More Than a Wine Event

While the wines were exceptional, the people made the experience unforgettable.

Throughout the weekend we met chefs, retailers, distributors, media members, fellow importers, and wine lovers from around the world. Every conversation reinforced something we already believed: wine has an incredible ability to connect people across cultures and languages.

Those relationships are at the heart of what we do at VNE Importers.

We don't simply import bottles—we help share the stories, traditions, and passion of the families behind them.

We're grateful to Oscar Aessir for trusting us to represent his wines during one of the industry's premier events.

We returned home inspired, with new friendships, new ideas, and an even deeper appreciation for the global wine community.

Until the next adventure—cheers!

Chris and Shunia looking at the mountains.