On a crisp January evening, my wife Katy and I ventured out into the chilly Fishers air for an experience that would warm our hearts and tantalize our taste buds. Tiburon Coastal, a local gem in downtown Fishers, was hosting its inaugural wine-tasting and food-pairing event featuring Two Vintners, and we couldn’t resist the allure.

Having previously savored Tiburon Coastal’s culinary delights, we knew we were in for a treat. But the true star of the evening was Morgan Lee, the vintner behind Two Vintners, whose passion for winemaking shone through every pour and story shared.

Morgan’s Journey: From Boilermaker to Vintner

As Morgan regaled us with tales of his winemaking journey, two fascinating details emerged. First, he’s a proud Boilermaker, hailing from Purdue University. Second, his love affair with Washington state began at 17 during a family trip to Seattle, where he fell head over heels for the region’s natural beauty.

Throughout the tasting, a common thread emerged in Morgan’s storytelling: a deep respect for nature and a commitment to maximizing the potential of each grape variety. This philosophy was evident in every sip we took.

A Tasting Adventure

Our journey through Two Vintners’ offerings was nothing short of extraordinary:

1. Sparkling Rosé: A crisp, trendy start that showcased Morgan’s versatility as a winemaker.
2. Grenache Blanc: An uncommon varietal that delivered a refreshing, dry experience.
3. OG Gewürztraminer: A crisp, dry, and fruity white that exemplified Morgan’s “make the most of what you have” approach.
4. ‘Make Haste Cinsault’: A red wine featuring an often-overlooked varietal, perfect for blending but standing strong on its own.
5. Syrah: A dry red that paired beautifully with the grilled venison, proving that sometimes the less popular varietals can shine brightest.
6. Ninny Late Harvest Riesling: A delightful dessert wine that complemented our ice cream perfectly.

A Night to Remember

As we savored each pour and morsel, the evening transcended a mere wine tasting. It became a celebration of passion, craftsmanship, and the joy of discovery. The combination of exquisite food, exceptional wines, engaging table conversations, and Morgan’s insightful commentary created an unforgettable experience.

Before we left, Morgan hinted at a special collaboration with a university that serendipitously launched his winemaking career. While not yet released, it’s definitely one to watch for in the future.

In the end, this inaugural event at Tiburon Coastal wasn’t just about wine and food. It was a testament to the power of following one’s passion, respecting nature’s gifts, and sharing that joy with others. As we stepped back into the cool January night, we carried with us warm memories of an evening that will linger long after the last sip.