As ‘Sideways’ Turns 20, Searchlight and the Hitching Post Celebrate With Anniversary Wine Dinners, Limited Release Bottles

As a wine enthusiast and devoted fan of the movie “Sideways”, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement at the prospect of these upcoming events commemorating the 20th anniversary of this cinematic masterpiece. The Hitching Post 2 restaurant, where Miles and Jack embarked on their unforgettable journey, is hosting winemaker dinners that promise to recreate the magic of that iconic road trip.


For approximately twenty years now, friends Miles and Jack have traversed the region north of Santa Barbara known as the Santa Inez Valley, with Miles, portrayed by Paul Giamatti, famously exclaiming, “I won’t be drinking any Merlot at all!”

Instead of the ordinary merlot, Miles and Jack, portrayed by Thomas Haden Church, opted for copious amounts of pinot noir in the 2004 comedy “Sideways,” which will be streaming on Hulu this fall. This wine-loving pair indulged in numerous glasses at the Hitching Post 2 restaurant in Buellton. In preparation for its 20th anniversary, the Hitching Post is organizing three winemaker dinners with Sideways wineries and launching a special edition pinot noir.

Chefs Frank Ostini from Hitching Post 2 and Gray Hartley, winemaker at Hitching Post Wines, are organizing anniversary celebrations in collaboration with Santa Barbara’s La Paloma Cafe, Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley, CIA at Copia, and LA’s Jar restaurant.

The iconic Highliner Pinot Noir from The Hitching Post will receive a unique label for the 2021 vintage to celebrate its anniversary. These limited-edition bottles can be purchased at the restaurant, the tasting room of The Hitching Post, and at selected stores. For passionate fans of the movie “Sideways”, a special set of three bottles labeled “As Featured in Sideways” is available for $650. It includes the 2001 Hitching Post Pinot Noir Bien Nacido, 2001 Hitching Post Pinot Noir Highliner, and the 2021 Hitching Post Pinot Noir Highliner.

As ‘Sideways’ Turns 20, Searchlight and the Hitching Post Celebrate With Anniversary Wine Dinners, Limited Release Bottles

Details on the winemaker dinners and other events are as follows:

On Sunday, September 15th, join Frank Ostini and Gray Hartley for a commemorative Sideways dinner at Hitching Post 2. This special event marks the 20th anniversary of the dinner, featuring a unique menu crafted by Hitching Post 2, accompanied by exclusive Pinot Noir vintages inspired by the film. The cost is $150 per person. Make your reservation via OpenTable Experience.

As ‘Sideways’ Turns 20, Searchlight and the Hitching Post Celebrate With Anniversary Wine Dinners, Limited Release Bottles

On Tuesday, September 24th:

29th September, Sunday

On the 12th of October, Saturday

On Tuesday, October 29th, join Chef/Owner Suzanne Tracht at Jar for a special “Sideways” Winemaker Dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of the film. Hitching Post Wines’ Frank Ostini and Gray Hartley will be in attendance, and the menu will feature dishes inspired by the iconic restaurant from the movie. The event includes a selection of special edition Pinot Noir vintages to pair with each course. This unique dining experience takes place at Jar, located at 8225 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles. The cost is $200 per person, which includes the menu and wines, along with tax and gratuity. Reserve your spot now through OpenTable Experience.

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2024-08-15 02:46