The Taste of Vermont event in Washington, D.C., showcased the vibrant culinary culture of the Green Mountain State in a delightful and immersive experience. Attendees were treated to a diverse array of Vermont's finest flavors, featuring artisanal cheeses, maple-infused delights, craft beverages, and farm-to-table cuisine.
The Center for Agriculture Economy (CAE's) Farm Connex transported over 2,600 pounds of local Vermont food to Washington D.C. for the 16th annual Taste of Vermont event. This initiative, organized by Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR) and featuring host, Bernie Sanders, aimed to showcase the diversity of Vermont's agricultural offerings to legislators and community members in the nation's capital.
Local Vermont farmers, chefs, and producers converged to present their high-quality, sustainable products, emphasizing the state's commitment to supporting local agriculture and fostering a close-knit community.
The delivery comprised products from 20 different farms and food producers across Vermont, many of whom collaborated with CAE and Farm Connex throughout the year. The Taste of Vermont event provided an opportunity for farmers and food businesses to share their products and stories, fostering a direct conversation between Vermont's congressional delegation and representatives from the state's agricultural sector. One of the main goals of The Taste of Vermont event is contributing to the dialogue about the challenges and realities faced by Vermont farmers and food businesses.
"The trip to DC was fantastic. Wandering the halls of the Capitol and entering and exiting the building with Bernie reminded us that access to our congressional delegation and policy decision makers is not an illusion. As Vermonters, we have agency, and that is a privilege not to be trifled with. Keep up the great work Bernie and thanks for throwing a great event, balancing the celebration of success in specialty food and agriculture with the gravity of these turbulent times." -SugarBob
In addition to the delectable bites and sips, the Taste of Vermont event incorporated live entertainment and interactive sessions, fostering an engaging atmosphere for attendees. This culinary extravaganza served not only as a showcase of Vermont's gastronomic treasures but also as a platform for local businesses to connect with a wider audience in the heart of the nation's capital. The Taste of Vermont event in Washington, DC, undoubtedly left a lasting impression, highlighting the state's culinary excellence and commitment to sustainable, locally sourced ingredients.
Thank you letter from Bernie Sanders:
More links from the event:
https://hardwickagriculture.org/about/case-studies/taste-vermont-washington-dc
https://www.sanders.senate.gov/bernie-buzz/taste-of-vermont/