Arianna ArmstrongThey came with their propaganda and their party fever. They welcomed everyone, invited the masses into the cavernous space where they assembled at Santa Monica Place mall, jamming to the driving beats of DJ Andie Cassette. And they poured wine. Lots of wine. Wine from all over the world. Second Glass Wine Riot came to Los Angeles to stage a revolution: They want you to drink more wine.
The Boston-based wine education, promotion and events company set up in Santa Monica on Friday, March 25, and toasted their way from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m. on Saturday, with just the briefest intermission between the afternoon and evening session to relax, regroup and reload. The event featured 30-minute, informal “Crash Course” wine education seminars; roving, red-shirted members of a “Wine Intelligence Unit” (like Apple's Genius Bar, only more inebriated); and even tattoo and photo booths.
With access to over 250 wines from all over the world, guests had a chance to work their way from German Rieslings to Argentinian Malbec. There was Italian Prosecco, French wines from Loire and Languedoc, Spanish Rioja and Rosado, and even some selections from Portugal, South Africa and Romania, as well as a variety of Cabs, Zins, Pinots and Chardonnays from California and Washington. To document their journey, revelers were encouraged to record their impressions on Wine Riot's own app. Epic.
There wasn't a lot to satisfy the munchies, but Snack Factory and Albertson's grocery store were on hand to offer samples of starches like pretzel crisps and water crackers. Cool Haus ice cream; Damn, That's Good! and I Heart Pies were selling snacks, and wandering winos with serious cravings were encouraged to check out the dining options just beyond the front door, at Santa Monica Place.
Second Glass Wine Riot continues their 5-city tour in Boston from April 22 – 23, before heading off to Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C, recruiting the nation's thirsty youth to their cause.
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.