When we began our search for organic wine, we were fortunate to find out that Mendocino County leads the nation in organic winegrowing with 18% of the counties wineries being certified organic.  The problem wasn’t finding a local, organic winery it was which one.  After a few taste tests we decided on Bonterra which is located in Ukiah, CA within a half hours drive from Shambhala.  As much as we wanted to support the winery directly, it was easier for us to purchase it from our local natural food store in Fairfax, CA where we live, Good Earth.  So we were able to support both the winery and our local store.

A special treat that we provided for our guests was an alternative to wine known as “Herbal Coolers” from a company in Eugene, Oregon called Herbal Junction Elixirs.  The coolers are a naturally effervescent herbal beverage rich in enzymes and B vitamins which originated in Asia.  It is a probiotic drink that is consumed for its rejuvenating and tonifying effect.  The coolers were such a hit that six liters of it was drank in the first hour of the reception and people were asking for more but we had run out.  There was wine left over at the end of the night.  We thought this was a good sign that people are really looking for healthy alternatives to alcohol.

We did not provide any soft drinks but did provide sparkling mineral water and organic fruit juice.