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Swirling, sipping, and swallowing were popular activities at several UMAA chapter events this fall. At least three UMAA chapters held wine-tasting events at local wineries and at least a half-dozen such events took place in 2000–01.

"I love wine, so whenever I’m planning an event I like to try to include wine," says Jessica Swann (B.A. ’98), current president of the San Diego Chapter, one of the UMAA’s most active groups. A wine-tasting tour of three vineyards in nearby Temecula in May 2000 proved so popular the chapter decided to hold another wine event this year.

On September 16, the chapter visited Temecula’s Wilson Creek Winery, owned by U of M alumnus Gerry Wilson (B.A. ’52) and his wife, Rosie. The event included a gourmet dinner and a chance to hear from the winemakers themselves. "Getting to know the winery owners in an intimate setting, learning about their journey, and then learning about wine from them was a definite highlight," Swann says. With Wilson reflecting on his years at the U and with Minnesota decorations and a raffle, the event "was a great way for people to make the U of M connection," she adds.

Also in September, the Southern Willamette Valley Chapter of Oregon visited a winery for tasting and hors d’oeuvres to cap off an afternoon of events. And the South Central Minnesota Chapter hosted a small event at Morgan Creek Vineyards near New Ulm.

In 2000, the Alexandria (Minnesota) Chapter held an event with University President Mark Yudof at Carlos Creek Winery. The Bay Area Chapter has visited the Ravenswood Winery, owned by U of M alumni Kent (B.S. ’66, D.V.M ’68) and Kathleen (B.A. ’69) Rosenblum, and has held its annual fall picnic at a Napa Valley winery. A winery visit can be "the perfect event," Swann says. "People are at ease and it’s a relaxing and casual setting."