Napa Valley Wine Train Chef on International Speaking Tour

NAPA, CA, May 09, 2011 (Press-News.org) The U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia have invited The Napa Valley Wine Train's Executive Chef Kelly Macdonald to participate in the U.S. Speaker and Specialist Program sponsored by the Bureau of International Information Programs. Macdonald's trip to the Republic of Georgia this month is part of a program to help explore food and wine culture and tourism development.

Macdonald will travel to different regions within Georgia to conduct workshops, seminars and master classes on California cuisine. He will be working with, and speaking to, local chefs, culinary students, and wine and tourism officials.

"I couldn't be more honored to represent California cusine, Napa and the Wine Train on this important international mission," Chef Macdonald said. "There are many aspects of the Georgian culture that speak to my heart and roots -- organic food and meat delivered fresh to daily markets, unique cheeses and the vibrant connection with wine. I am excited to share my regional knowledge and also to learn much from my hosts as well."

Chef will travel to Tbilisi in the Eastern Georgian region of Kakheti, and to Georgia's Black Sea coast near the cities of Kobuleti and Batumi. The Republic of Georgia is known as the "cradle of wine," and Georgian life remains deeply in touch with the Bacchic tradition, where reverence for the grape touches many aspects of contemporary Georgian culture.

The Bureau of International Information Programs runs the U.S. Speaker and Specialist Program, which selects U.S. experts to deliver lectures, serve as consultants and conduct seminars. According to their website, having an expert from the United States speak to foreign audiences is a compelling way for posts to deliver messages about U.S. policy, society, and culture.

The Napa Valley Wine Train is one of the most unique and best Napa restaurants. This top dining establishment is housed in an antique train that runs on 25 miles of track in the heart of the Napa Valley. The train itself has two engines, three kitchens on board and a collection of early 20th century rail cars that are pure Americana. It offers guests great regional food and fabulous, hard-to-find wines. Enjoy winery tours, wine tasting on board, and celebrity winemaker dinners: a great place to celebrate your special moments, or just to enjoy everyday life. (800) 427-4124 winetrain.com