The Lake Champlain Chamber, the Vermont Convention Bureau, and the Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation (GBIC) announced Monday that they will host the Fourteenth Annual Taste of Vermont Reception in Washington, D.C., with honored guest Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), on Thursday, May 9, 2019.
The annual event has become well known throughout the Capital Region for its dynamic showcase of Vermont products. More than 60 Vermont businesses will be represented at the reception, and many are traveling to Washington for this special event. Representatives of Vermont food and beverage makers will have the opportunity to greet Members of Congress, food writers and policy makers from federal agencies and others in an effort to bring more business to Vermont.
The Taste of Vermont Reception will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, in the historic Kennedy Caucus Room of the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill. This special event is by invitation only, with an attendee list that will include U.S. Senators and Representatives; federal government officials; Vermont government officials; Vermont Convention Bureau members; and Washington-based specialty food buyers.
Leahy said: “The record, the reputation and the renown of the Taste of Vermont proves that tasting is believing.  Quality is paramount in the Green Mountain State. It is our brand. Vermont has an international reputation for quality, purity and craftsmanship, from world class beer, cheese and maple products, to world-renown skiing, hiking and stunning landscapes.  We want everyone to know about all the other artfully crafted food and experiences we have to offer. For more than a decade, this highly anticipated event impresses and wins converts every time. Across the nation and beyond, there is growing interest in our small state’s expanding variety of fine products, made with pride, skill and a tradition of excellence. The Taste of Vermont is the perfect crossroads for Vermont businesses to showcase our diverse and unique economy, in the heart of the nation’s capital.â€
The Taste of Vermont Reception will showcase the diversity of Vermont food and beverage products. Everything from pizza, snacks, microbrew beers and ciders and spirits, handcrafted chocolate, and artisan cheese to ice cream, meats, and, of course, pure Vermont maple syrup will be represented at the event, truly giving attendees a real “Taste of Vermont.† A complete list of vendors represented at the Taste of Vermont is available here.