Many Wined and Dined at ARC of Rockland Fundraiser

Many came out despite the rain this past Tuesday to support a local organization. The ARC of Rockland, a non profit, hosted a fundraising event called Wine Pairing & a Chef Sharing at Del’Arte Restaurant in Orangeburg.

Wine sommeliers Charlie Gratz and Chandler Webber represented ten premier wines from California and across the world and teamed up with Del’ Arte owner and Chef John Carollo for this unique experience. 

Chef Carollo made a few of his famous dishes—Linguine alla Vongole, Risotto Ai Funghi, Rigatoni alla Bolognese—and Sommeliers Gratz and Webber paired the dishes with the appropriate wines.

"This is a wonderful event for ARC of Rockland. Not only is the food spectacular and the wine sensational, the evening has brough together many people to support the programs and services provided by ARC," said Karyl Caplan, executive director of ARC of Rockland. "We want to thank the owners of Del' Arte Restaurant for sponsoring this event."

The following labels were featured for tasting:

• Ravenswood Zinfandel Lodi 2006
• Estancia Reserve Meritage 2007
• Clos du Bois Russian River Valley Chardonnay
• Wild Horse Central Coast Pinot Noir 2007
• Robert Mondavi Winery Fume Blanc 2008
• Michele Chiarlo Barbera D’Asti
• Echelon Pinot Noir
• Kono Wine of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
• Sonoma Cutrer Estate Chardonnay 2005
• Bran Caia Tre 2007 (Blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet).

Proceeds from "Wine Pairing & A Chef Sharing" went to support programs at ARC of Rockland, the county's nonprofit that provides programs and services to people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families.

The ARC is known for the more popular annual A Taste of Rockland that’s held every September.

ARC of Rockland was founded more than 50 years ago by a small but determined group of parents who wanted their sons and daughters to enjoy education, housing, employment and participation in community activities. Today, ARC provides programs and services to 1,200 people throughout Rockland County. More at www.arcofrockland.org.