SAVE THE DATES
From classic to unusual, Chasity Cooper handpicks six events across the US for a glimpse into America’s wine culture
In the US, wine experiences are often equated to spending a day or two at lush vineyards and tasting rooms in places like Napa Valley, Sonoma County or Willamette Valley. But over the last 40 years, there have been a number of fairs and festivals established to celebrate American wines and regions that they hail from. Additionally, these events have grown to uplift the winemakers, sommeliers, content creators and executives who share their fervent passions with the world.
As wine enthusiasts become more aware of what is in their glass, these events aren’t simply about gathering to taste dozens and dozens of wines. They’re multi-day, multilayered experiences that are centered around community and connectivity – complete with delicious food, live entertainment, and thoughtful masterclasses and panels led by world-renowned industry experts.
To experience how the world of wine continues to penetrate American culture, here are six events to consider attending in the next few months.
NOVEMBER – CHATEAU ELAN VINEYARD FEST, GEORGIA
Located about 45 minutes outside of Atlanta, the Chateau Elan Winery and Resort offers Georgians a taste of luxury, relaxation and award-winning wine. Going into its 27th year, the Vineyard Fest offers attendees the opportunity to taste their wines, as well as locally distilled whiskey, vodka, bourbon and craft beer. If you enjoy dressing in your Sunday best and taking in breathtaking views of Georgia’s rolling foothills, then this is the event for you.
events.chateauelan.com
FEBRUARY – BLACK VINES FESTIVAL, CALIFORNIA
For the last 12 years, the Black Vines Festival in Berkeley has raised a glass to celebrate and honor Black joy, Black love, Black wineries, and diverse art. Founded by wine entrepreneur Fern A. Stroud, the event includes exclusive winemaker dinners, a grand tasting from multiple Black wineries and vintners, an art show, and concludes with a Black Joy Parade.
blackvines.net
MARCH – CHARLESTON WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL, SOUTH CAROLINA
Founded 2005 by a collective of community leaders who had the desire to uplift and celebrate the culinary scene in Charleston, the CWFF is where food and culture collide. From signature dinners and curated excursions to hands-on cooking classes and beverage workshops, attendees have the opportunity to choose their own unique experience. But no matter which route you take, this festival is undoubtedly a taste of true southern hospitality.
charlestonwineandfood.com
JUNE – FOOD & WINE CLASSIC, COLORADO
This year marked the 40th anniversary of the famous Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado. A star-studded three-day affair offers attendees live cooking demonstrations with celebrity chefs, endless sips of wines and spirits, and engaging seminars that will take your love for food and wine to the next level.
classic.foodandwine.com
JULY – INTERNATIONAL PINOT NOIR CELEBRATION, OREGON
Celebrating 37 years this past July in McMinnville, just south Portland, the IPNC is for anyone who completely nerds out when it comes to Pinot Noir and its many guises, from sparkling wine, Champagne and rosé to still wines both young and old. This event is also a celebration of the people and places that make Oregon extraordinary. If you’re worried about what will coat your stomach in between the Grand Tasting, University of Pinot Courses and Al Fresco tastings, don’t fret. Some of Oregon’s finest chefs provide delectable dishes for the Grand Dinner, Vineyard Tour Lunch, Salmon Bake, and Sparkling Brunch.
ipnc.org
JULY – WINE & CULTURE FEST, GEORGIA
Since 2018, The Hue Society, founded by Tahiirah Habibi, has brought together professionals and oenophiles at every level to celebrate wine culture from a Black lens. With Atlanta as the backdrop, the festival has grown from a weekend to a week-long event complete with interactive demonstrations, blind-tasting competitions, master classes and wellness sessions. The festival concludes with the annual Roses and Rosé Awards Brunch, honoring Black and POC wine professionals who are trendsetters, influencers, educators and pioneers.
wineandculturefest.com
Photography ©Chateau Elan, Kola Shobo, CHSWF, Perry McLeod, Aspen food and wine, IPNC, The Hue Society
We recommend
WINE TRAILS ITALY: TRIESTE & FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA
A melting pot at the heart of one of Europe’s most innovative wine region, Trieste has all the ingredients for a great city break – including the freshest coffee in Italy. We take a tour
WINE TRAILS OF THE VAL D’ORCIA AND MONTALCINO
Continuing our Italian road trip in Val d’Orcia and Montalcino, where we visit wineries, cuisines, and stay in places that express this unique part of Tuscany
WINE TRAILS OF THE LANGHE AND ROERO
Commencing our Italian road trip in the Langhe and Roero in Piedmont, where we visit the wineries and sample the cuisines that express this unique place
WINE TRAILS OF ITALY: SICILY AND MOUNT ETNA
Continuing our Italian road trip in Sicily and Mount Etna, we visit the wineries and sample the cuisines that best reflect this unique part of Italy