30a wine festival

February 28, 2023

30A Wine Festival: Carnival!

Grand Tasting fills Alys Beach with color

By Michelle Farnham
Feb. 28, 2023

ALYS BEACH – Mardi Gras rolled through town last week, but there was still plenty of celebration at the Carnival-themed 30A Wine Festival Grand Tasting, held Feb. 25 along South Charles Street.

Vibrant Brazilian decor stood out among the stark white architecture synonymous with Alys Beach. Complete with traditional music and dancers, many of the restaurants presented dishes in keeping with the evening’s theme.

Bites

George’s at Alys Beach served mini pork belly tostadas.

The Depot served Baja tuna tartare sushi bowls and Gulf seafood paella.

Black Bear Bread Co. delighted with lemon curd king cake.

Yellowfin tuna dumplings were plated by Pescado.

The Alys Beach Culinary Team, for example, served Brazilian seafood stew and picanha skewers, which Executive Chef Drew Dzejak was grilling and carving on-site.

“We got the steak picante, done on the traditional skewers, as well as some lovely beef fat roasted potatoes to go with it,” Dzejak said, adding he thought the venue was looking particularly colorful and festive.

Neighboring George’s at Alys Beach was also in attendance at the sold-out event, including a pork belly tostada and a vegan lettuce wrap.

“We toss mushrooms in a teriyaki-style sauce with bourbon in it, and garnish it with toasted cashews, crispy shallots and pickled red cabbage,” explained Executive Chef Camille Withall, while refilling plates. “I love this festival, bringing people together. It shows the community and it’s a good time.”

In addition to other local vendors like Black Bear Bread Co., The Salty Butcher, Pescado and 2 Birds Café, festival organizers brought in talent from outside the state. Chef Scott Simpson of The Depot out of Auburn, Ala., was serving Baja tuna tartare sushi bowls and Gulf seafood paella. Hailing from Cleveland Heights in the Buckeye state, Farmer’s Feast served a rillette of Ohio chicken with crisp rice; and sausage, pickled cabbage and potato crisp on a baguette.

Of course it wouldn’t be a wine festival without the wine, and ticket-holders could sample vintages from the likes of Soter Vineyards, La Grande Sieste, Thompson 31Fifty Wines, La Fete Wine Co., and Finca Ambrosia, to name a few.

The stroll down Charles Street concluded with a cocktail station, pouring mixed drinks using Leyenda de México tequila, Campesino Rum, Vulanica Vodka, and Wonderland Distilling Gin.

Sights

The Grand Tasting was held Feb. 25.

The Carnival theme brought a lot of color to South Charles Street!

Even the guests got in on the sartorial fun!

Wine vendors came from near and far to offer their bottles.

Wine vendors came from near and far to offer their bottles.

The 30A Wine Festival ran Feb. 22 to 26.

In addition to wine, guests enjoyed a cocktail station.

Beautiful Alys Beach afternoons call for beautiful Alys Beach sunsets.

First-time attendee Joanna Thomas was in awe of the festivities.

“This is just tremendous; we’re having such a wonderful time!” she said, gesturing around. “The wine is exquisite, the food is delicious, I love the Brazilian dancers, and of course the venue here in Alys Beach is unmatched.”

The Grand Tasting is part of the five-day 30A Wine Festival extravaganza, including speciality dinners and seminars; Bourbon, Beer & Butts; the Gospel Brunch; and the Rose & Croquet tournament. The weekend benefits the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, providing affordable healthcare to children in need throughout Okaloosa and Walton counties.

Photos by Michelle Farnham

February 22, 2023

Alys Beach prepares for 11th 30A Wine Festival

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Special to 30A Food & Wine
Feb. 22, 2023

ALYS BEACH – The 30A Wine Festival returns to the community of Alys Beach for its 11th year: Wednesday, Feb. 22 through Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The festival showcases renowned distillers, vintners, and culinary favorites over five days of celebration – a series of events and workshops where wine enthusiasts and bourbon lovers alike relish in the festivities within the captivating town of Alys Beach.

All proceeds from the festival benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, a local charity which provides health services to uninsured or underinsured school children in Walton and Okaloosa counties.

Cultural experiences are written into the master plan of Alys Beach through the dictates of The Alys Foundation, the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that underwrites the 30A Wine Festival and the other Alys Beach signature festivals. These events and festivals are designed to bring the Alys Beach community, with an emphasis on its homeowners and their families and friends, together around a shared cultural experience.

In its 11 years, the 30A Wine Festival has become a series of events that gather the adult community for exquisite food, drink, music and revelry. As the town grows and the footprint of the festival remains fixed, and as ticket sales release to Alys Beach homeowners first by design, the events are organically transitioning into experiences exclusive to our owner community, an added amenity for our Alys Beach homeowners.

The 30A Wine Festival will continue to release any remaining tickets to our Alys Beach vacation rental guests and the larger community in the years ahead, and invites both festival goers and the larger community to participate in the event that is always open to the public – the 30A Wine Festival Silent Auction benefiting the Children’s Volunteer Health Network. No tickets are required to bid on auction items, just head to 30awinefest.givesmart.com.
Sponsors of the 11th Annual 30A Wine Festival include Brown, Burns & Associates, Inc. Financial Advisors, BALCONES Distilling, Alys Beach Construction, Alys Beach Real Estate, Driftwood Wine & Spirits, Laurent-Perrier, The Jewel, Scenic Stays, and Galvas Construction.

Schedule of events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22
• Tour of The Rhône Valley Wine Dinner, The Beach Club; 6-9 p.m.
This special Rhône Valley wine dinner will be held in the Lounge of the Beach Club exclusively for Alys Beach property owners. Beach Club Chef Renato Falconi will prepare a four-course dinner in the French tradition, in tandem with beautiful pairings from the cellars of Rhône Valley’s finest, M. Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Chateau de Beaucastel. The live music performance of Cam Ray will accompany the event.

• Paul Hobbs Wine Dinner, Caliza Restaurant; 6-9 p.m.
At the onset of this year’s 30A Wine Festival, Caliza’s Red Loggia sets an elegant tone for an intimate evening with Paul Hobbs Winery. Agustina Hobbs will share the winery’s finest offerings paired perfectly with four courses from Alys Beach Executive Chef Kevin Cavanaugh. This evening is sure to be an experience to remember. The live music performance of Mari Gleason will accompany the event.

THURSDAY, FEB. 23
• Oysters + Champagne, The Beach Plaza; 6-9 p.m.
An evening on the Beach Plaza featuring the most exceptional oysters harvested throughout the southeast. Accompanied by champagne and live music, the Oysters + Champagne event is always a beautiful evening of celebration. The live music performance of the Lilli Lewis Trio will accompany the event. Oysters will be provided by Cypress Point Oyster Co., Pelican Oyster Farm, Serenoa Shellfish Co.; a food station will be provided by The Citizen; champagne stations will feature Laurent-Perrier, Laherte Frères, VINTUS Wine Imports, Champagne Delamotte, and Piper-Heidsieck – Charles Heidsieck.

• Leyenda de México Tequila Dinner, Papilio Park; 6-9 p.m.
A new addition to the 30A Wine Festival, the Leyenda de México Tequila Dinner features a four-course dinner alongside neat tequila tastings and uniquely crafted cocktails from this beautiful tequila from Jalisco. Set in the enchanting canopy of Papilio Park, this dinner is a welcomed addition to the festival repertoire and is sure to be a memorable evening of food, drink, and revelry. The live music performance of Jeff Taylor will accompany the event.

FRIDAY, FEB. 24
• Mixology Seminar, Red Loggia; 5-6:30 p.m.
This hands-on mixology seminar will take you through the creation of three perfect craft cocktails that are sure to impress even the most avid cocktail connoisseurs. Our experts, Christine Tarpey of Better Together Beverage and Christopher Ritch of Maverick Beverage Company, share their expertise, insights, and instructions to impart participants with a fresh new lineup to replicate at home.

• Bourbon, Beer & Butts, Kelly Green; 6:30-9 p.m.
Enjoy a night of bourbon, beer, and barbecue with bourbon tastings from distilleries across the country, craft brews from local and national breweries, and savory barbecue creations showcasing the top culinary talents in the Southeast.
Breweries include Grayton Beer Company , Wicked Weed Brewing Company, Tin Roof Brewing Company, Pensacola Bay Brewery, Sixpoint Brewery, Goat Island Brewing, Idyll Hounds Brewing Company.
Participating culinary talent represents Alys Beach, Marrow Private Chefs, Saw’s BBQ, The Hound, The Perfect Pig Grill and Fish House, Treaty Oak Distilling, Southern Soul BBQ, RC Weddings + Events Professional Catering, and Cookie Fix.
Bourbon distilleries include Treaty Oak Distilling, Lexington Brewing & Distilling, Dettling Bourbon, Doc Swinson’s Whiskey, Savage & Cooke, Michter’s Distillery, Paul Sutton Bourbon, Superb Spirits, and Balcones Distilling. The Cleverlys are sure to keep the party rockin’ all night!

SATURDAY, FEB. 25
• Grand Tasting , 3:30-6:30 p.m. | South Charles Street
Immerse yourself in the streetscapes of Alys Beach as you stroll down South Charles Street for the Grand Tasting. Between tasting more than 80 wines from around the globe and light bites to accompany you along the way, this is sure to be a stroll like no other. The live music performances of Jared Herzog, Mike Whitty, and Tanner Gray will accompany the event.
Participating culinary talent represents Ravello Ristorante, The Salty Butcher, George’s at Alys Beach, The Depot , Pescado, Farmer’s Feast, Alys Beach Culinary, 2 Birds Café, Seabear, Chocolatá, Black Bear Bread Co.

SUNDAY, FEB. 26
• Gospel Brunch, Gulf Green; 10 a.m. to noon
We’ll keep the mimosas, Bloody Marys, and coffee cocktails flowing while you enjoy a lively, delicious brunch in one of Alys Beach’s most beautiful and iconic settings, Gulf Green. Feel the joy as the sounds of the gospel choir fill the space for this celebratory Sunday event. The live music performance of the Soul Sensations will accompany the event. The brunch cocktail station will feature Treaty Oak Distilling.

• Rosé & Croquet, Kelly Green; noon to 3 p.m.
Rosé & Croquet is one of the most beloved of the festival events. Wear your croquet whites and enjoy a festive gathering featuring a beautiful brunch spread and an elegant selection of rosés. Rally your best mates and fuel up for the ninth annual Croquet Tournament (each player must purchase an individual ticket + an additional $200 for a four-person team ticket is required to play in the tournament), or just sit back, sip some sparkling rosé, and watch the games. It’s always a fun finale for the 30A Wine Festival! The live music performance of Ken & Andi will accompany the event.

March 3, 2022

Wine festival wishes and Alys Beach dreams

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30A Wine Festival is a sight to behold

Michelle Farnham
March 3, 2022

ALYS BEACH – A beautiful night under the glow of an Emerald Coast sunset turned into a beautiful night under the glow of twinkling lights at the 30A Wine Festival Feb. 26.

Those lucky enough to gain entry into the sold out premier event strolled South Charles Street, visiting 44 vendor tables, sampling wines, fine dining fare and cocktails. Surrounded by the towering architecture of Alys Beach, spring fashions made an early debut and cuisine ranged from paella to popsicles.

Chef Drew Dzejak represented Alys Beach’s The Citizen, bringing his famous Calabrian Shrimp, served with crispy shallots, fresh herbs and focaccia. A few tables down, Big Bad Breakfast dished up Winter Vegetable Hash and an Indian-Spiced Vichyssoise with spice-crusted shrimp.

amici 30A Italian Kitchen pleased the crowd with their aracini, caprese skewers and Amy’s Meatballs; while Black Bear Barroom put out an impressive charcuterie spread and Gianduja tarts – a chocolate-lover’s dream.

Holiday Cafe was on site, sharing the news of their upcoming establishment, set to open early May. Serving coffee, wine, and small eats, Holiday Cafe will be located near Mast Furniture in Alys Beach.

Wine pour — The 30A Wine Festival featured 44 tables of food, wine and cocktails.

Napa’s Robert Biale Vineyards was on hand again, offering the R.W. Moore Zinfandel and Royal Punishers Petite Sirah.

“We specialize in zinfandel and everyone has really been going after it,” the Biale rep admitted. “That vineyard was planted in 1905 so it’s incredibly old and still tasting just wonderful.”

In addition to wine, four tables near the stage were mixing cocktails, including the Blue Me Away (Kastra Elion Vodka, Blue Curacao, Chartreuse, grapefruit bitters, lime and soda) and at the Tequila Komos table, the Rosy Dawn (rosé syrup, strawberry, lime and Maldon salt).

Taste — The festival gives guests a chance to try new bottles before hitting the retail tent.

“I like that this festival is in the evening, both from a climate perspective and because the vibe is a little more chill,” said attendee Andrew Williams of Ohio, who has been to all the South Walton wine festivals, but fell in love with the 30A fest on his first visit. “As much as I like day drinking, I like evening drinking even more!”

A trio of musical groups played along the street, keeping the mood as airy as the night’s light gulf breeze, and a silent auction encouraged bids to benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, providing dental care to underserved local children. Other festival weekend events included a wine dinner at Caliza, a beer and wine dinner, oysters and champagne in Central Park, the Flor de Cana Rum dinner, a mixology seminar; Bourbon, Beer & Butts Friday night; and Sunday’s Gospel Brunch and Rosé & Croquet tournament.

Table — Wine, food and friends, what could be better?

Photos by Michelle Farnham

March 1, 2022

B3: Neat or on the rocks?

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Bourbon Beer & Butts keeps Alys Beach fed, watered and happy

By Michelle Farnham
March, 1, 2022

ALYS BEACH – One of the premier events of the 30A Wine Festival, Friday night’s Bourbon Beer & Butts smoked up the coast Feb. 25!

The crowd came together for a good cause, as proceeds benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network, providing health services to over 1,000 underinsured children annually in Walton and Okaloosa counties. Kelley Mossburg, executive director of the charity, welcomed the crowd and offered his thanks.

“Many of the children we see each year – between kindergarten and fifth grade – have never seen the inside of a dentist’s office,” Mossburg explained. “We’re able to provide that care free of cost through your generosity and the generosity of The Alys Foundation and many other supporters. Thank you for being here tonight, and I don’t have to tell you to have a good time!”

The Pork Carnitas from Springhouse in Alexander City, Ala., were served with jicama and carrot slaw.

Eats came from near – Caliza Restaurant, Back Beach Barbecue, 98 Bar-B-Que, Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar – and far, like Treaty Oak of Dripping Springs, Texas; Swig & Swine of Charleston, S.C., and Central BBQ of Memphis.

Auburn’s Bow & Arrow was back for its sixth year, with Chef David Bancroft serving his TV-worthy ribs.

“This is a dish I did on Iron Chef America: Battle Ribs,” Bancroft said as he sprinkled the dish with pecans. “It has honey hot sauce and fried chicken skin streusel.”

Saw’s BBQ of Birmingham was on hand, not only dishing up Pork ‘n’ Greens (pulled smoked pork, cheese grits, turnip greens and fried onions) but handing out complimentary bottles of their sauce.

To wash down all that amazing BBQ, guests had their choice of bourbon or beer – or both – with everything from local favorites Idyll Hounds and Grayton Beer Co., to Wilderness Trail Distillery of Danville, Ky.

The team from Treaty Oak Distilling drove in all the way from the Austin, Texas, area to pour several options.

“We have our Treaty Oak Day Drinker Texas Bourbon, which is a little lower on the ABV side, it’s a little more for easy sipping and cocktails,” said rep Lee Fenner, while also pointing out their very popular Hill Country Dreaming cocktail, combining the Day Drinker with black tea, lemon, and mint simple syrup.

“We’ve been here every year, and this is probably the best event; we look forward to it every year,” Fenner added.

To entertain the crowd, The Cleverlys took the stage with a promise of twangy, old-timey music, but threw a curve ball when they cranked out more mainstream tunes such as Blackstreet’s “I Like the Way You Work It,” 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” and “Gangnam Style” between deadpan quips and hilariously misleading anecdotes.

Photos by Michelle Farnham

February 14, 2022

Alys Beach celebrates 10th annual 30A Wine Festival

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Special to 30A Food & Wine
Feb. 14, 2022

ALYS BEACH – The 30A Wine Festival, underwritten by The Alys Foundation, returns to Alys Beach for its 10th year, Wednesday, Feb. 23 through Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022. The festival showcases renowned distillers, vintners, and culinary favorites over five days of celebration – a series of events and workshops where wine enthusiasts and bourbon lovers alike relish in the festivities within the captivating town of Alys Beach.

The festival kicks off on Wednesday evening at Caliza Pool and Restaurant with an intimate wine dinner featuring a four-course meal created by Alys Beach Executive Chef Kevin Cavanaugh.

On Thursday evening, attendees have the option between an oyster and champagne gathering in Central Park or a Rum Dinner in Papilio Park.

Friday afternoon, a mixology seminar Friday evening features the Bourbon, Beer & Butts event, where a lively barbecue and bourbon tasting will feature some of the country’s best pit masters and distillers, with live music under the stars on Kelly Green.

Saturday showcases the exquisite Grand Tasting event, featuring tastings from distinguished vintners and chefs stationed along the meandering, open-air gallery of picturesque South Charles Street in the heart of Alys Beach.

Alongside the festival and the Grand Tasting, guests have the opportunity to bid on hundreds of items featured in the silent auction as they stroll, sip and taste their way to the Gulf Green for the iconic Gulf of Mexico vista. The festival finishes on Sunday with the Gospel Brunch on the Gulf Green, a captivating experience of song with good food and good company, and the highly anticipated Rosé & Croquet event on Kelly Green, where guests enjoy rosé tastings, a delicious brunch and possibly a coveted spot to play in the beloved croquet tournament.

Wednesday, Feb. 23

• Wine Dinner: Caliza Restaurant, 6 to 9 p.m.

Kick off the 2022 30A Wine Festival with an intimate four-course wine dinner by Alys Beach Executive Chef Kevin Cavanaugh. Caliza Restaurant sets an elegant tone for an evening of fine wines perfectly paired with Chef’s most delectable creations; this opening event is always an experience to remember. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

• Wine + Beer Dinner, 6 to 9 p.m.

This special collaboration between Miura Vineyards and Red Clay Brewing Company includes a 4-course pairing dinner featuring Miura Vineyards wines alongside Red Clay’s new collection of beers. Guided by Napa-based Miura Vineyards’ owner, winemaker and Master Sommelier, Emmanuel Kemiji, Red Clay Master Brewer, Kerry McGinnis, and Alys Beach Executive Chef, Kevin Cavanaugh, this is sure to be a vibrant, exciting evening of food, drink, and merriment. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

Thursday, Feb. 24

• Oysters + Champagne: Central Park, 6 to 9 p.m.

An evening in Central Park featuring the most exceptional oysters harvested throughout the southeast. Accompanied by champagne and live music, the Oysters + Champagne event is always a beautiful evening of celebration. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

• Rum Dinner: Papilio Park, 6 to 9 p.m.

A new addition to the 30A Wine Festival, the Rum Dinner features a four-course dinner alongside neat rum tastings and beautifully crafted rum cocktails. Set in the enchanting canopy of Papilio Park, this dinner is a welcome addition to the festival repertoire and is sure to be a memorable evening of food, drink, and revelry. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

Friday, Feb. 25

• Mixology Seminar: Palmera Park, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

This hands-on mixology seminar will take you through the creation of three perfect craft cocktails that are sure to impress even the most avid cocktail connoisseurs. Our experts share their expertise, insights, and instructions to impart participants with a fresh new lineup to replicate at home. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

• Bourbon, Beer & Butts: Kelly Green, 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Enjoy a night of bourbon, beer, and barbecue with bourbon tastings from distilleries across the country, craft brews from local and national breweries, and savory barbecue creations showcasing the top culinary talents in the Southeast. The Cleverlys are sure to keep the party rockin’ all night! Tickets are available for individual purchase or are included in the weekend pass.

Saturday, Feb. 26

• Grand Tasting: S. Charles Street, 4 to 7 p.m.

Meander along charming South Charles Street and explore wines from across the globe. Showcasing more than 80 wines accompanied by small bites of the finest creations from local and regional eateries, the Grand Tasting is the centerpiece of the 30A Wine Festival. A beautiful, elegant event, the Grand Tasting is not to be missed! Tickets are available for individual purchase or are included in the weekend pass.

Croquet — At the croquet game Sunday, sip some sparkling rosé, and watch the games!

Sunday, Feb. 27

• Gospel Brunch: Gulf Green, 10 a.m. to noon

We’ll keep the mimosas, Bloody Marys, and coffee cocktails flowing while you enjoy a lively, delicious brunch in one of Alys Beach’s most beautiful and iconic settings, Gulf Green. Feel the joy as the sounds of the gospel choir fill the space for this celebratory Sunday event. Tickets are available for individual purchase and are not included in the weekend pass.

• Rosé & Croquet: Kelly Green, noon to 3 p.m.

Rosé & Croquet is one of the most beloved of the festival events and access is only available to weekend pass holders. Wear your croquet whites and enjoy a festive gathering featuring a beautiful brunch spread and an elegant selection of rosés. Rally your best mates and fuel up for the eight annual Croquet Tournament ($100 croquet team ticket and weekend passes for all players required), or just sit back, sip some sparkling rosé, and watch the games. It’s always a fun finale for the 30A Wine Festival! Included in the weekend pass only; not available for individual purchase.

May 2, 2019

Drinks pour and pour some more!

Blog

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival raises millions for kids

By Michelle Farnham

If you can’t find a wine you like at the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, it
doesn’t exist. With more than 800 bottles spread across more than 100 booths –
including a 22-table Rosé All Day Garden – there is something to please every palate.

SoWal Wine — Offering something a little different, the Craft Beer & Spirits Jam
rocked Grand Boulevard Friday night.

Friday night’s Craft Beer & Spirits Jam kicked off the Grand Boulevard festivities,
with 59 stations pouring everything from Kerry Gold Irish Cream to Boggy Bayou
Stout to Rattlesnake Rosie’s Apple Pie Whiskey.

Eats Street gave tasters a chance to sample food, like the pecan-smoked chicken
wings with Alabama white sauce slaw from Grayton Beer Brewpub, shrimp rolls
from Roux 30a, and the slow-roasted Chinese-style spare rib from South Walton
newcomer Nanbu Noodle Bar.

The crew from La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar wowed the crowd with crispy tuna tacos.

Roux 30a kept seafood lovers satisfied with their shrimp rolls.

One guest returned to the La Cocina Mexican Grill & Bar station to rave about the
tuna tacos with pear and pineapple kimchi and charred tomatillo salsa.

“Listen, I don’t eat tuna or kimchi or cilantro, and look: I have a clean plate,” she
admitted. “This is delicious!”

Popping bottles

The Grand Tastings Saturday and Sunday gave winemakers their chance to shine,
including a special selection of Jackson Family Wines inside the Culinary Village.

The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival delighted April 25 to
28.

Haley Wells with Artisans & Estates was on hand pouring Matanzas Creek
Sauvignon Blanc, Ex Post Facto Syrah and – the fan favorite – the Hartford Court
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir.

“This event is incredible. I’ve done a ton of these festivals with Jackson Family and
I’ve never seen anything to this extent before,” she said. “Everyone keeps coming up
saying, ‘I want the Russian River!’ The valley has a really well known presence when
it comes to Pinot Noirs, and they’re well-trusted. This one is very well accoladed by
(wine advocate) Robert Parker.”

Tasting seminars give festival-goers a chance to dig deeper into the flavors they
love. Bill Samuels Jr., retired president and chairman emeritus of Maker’s Mark,
shared glimpses of his incredible life at the center of the Kentucky bourbon scene.

“Pappy Van Winkle gave me my first drink – I was 12,” Samuels admitted. “He said
‘just two fingers’ and I didn’t know what he was talking about.”

He expanded on his mission to evolve Marker’s Mark, moving the flavor profiles by
changing ingredient ratios to create Maker’s 46 Bourbon.

Other presenters included Michael Landis of the Institut du Fromage, pairing meats
and cheeses with Jackson Family Wines; and Eugenia Keegan, Erik Kramer and
Mollie Battenhouse, speaking on “The Origin and Evolution of Oregon Wines.”

Wine-tasters Marie and Jonathan Wilson were in town from Atlanta, celebrating
Marie’s birthday.

“I am super excited to be here,” Marie said, admitting she’d found a new favorite
Riesling. “Everything is so nice, and the variety of wines is impressive.”

Late Sunday afternoon, Steve Jager of Birmingham was enjoying his final sips with
wife Annalisa, as a breeze blew through the Rosé pavilion.

“It’s hard to pick a favorite, there’s a lot of great things. On the wine side, probably
the Krupp from the VIP tent Friday night. After three days of this, it’s hard to keep
track! Friday night was enjoyment to excess!“ Jager admitted, recalling that this was
his fifth time in town for the festival.

“We were surprised by the Argentina wines, they were always good,” added his
friend Ted Stuckenschneider. “The Rosé tent was wonderful; everybody is enjoying
this and the weather was delightful. As past president of the International Food and
Wine Society in Birmingham, I had to plan 22 wine events a year for two years, and
so, I think I can tell you this was a good one.”

Paddles in the air

As if a 3-day wine and food festival isn’t enough for one weekend, the Destin Charity
Wine Auction is held concurrently at Grand Boulevard, all working to raise funds for
more than a dozen local children’s charities.

A pre-auction reserve tasting gave patrons a chance to meet and mingle while
sampling elevated wines and bites, like the pan-seared scallops with mango beurre
blanc from Vue on 30a, the New York strip with mushrooms and apricot demi gloss
from Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood, and the poached Gulf shrimp with English
pea puree by Caliza Restaurant.

Once the party got started in the auction hall, DCWAF President John Russell
reminded the crowd that in the auction’s 13-year history, the foundation has raised
over $18 million for Northwest Florida children’s charities.

“We’re going to drink wine, but our mission is clear,” Russell said. “There are a lot of
children in need … if you stay committed, we’ll break $20 million today.”

Combining the $685,000 raised during the previous night’s patron dinners,
combined with winning bids like $55,000 for the 50-bottle Magnum Force lot,
$40,000 for a trip to Sea Island, Ga., and $36,000 to make your own barrel of Maker’s
Mark bourbon in Kentucky, that mark was quickly surpassed.

The DCWAF’s next event is the Harvest Wine & Food Festival, scheduled for Oct. 24
to 26, 2019. The 15 th annual Destin Charity Wine Auction weekend is April 24 to 26,
2020.

Photos by Michelle Farnham and Phil Heppding

April 22, 2019

South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival – Four days, 800+ bottles

Blog

By Laura Holloway

A festival that Southern Living magazine names as one of the most successful festivals in the
Southeast, the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, or SoWal Wine, is one of the
premiere happenings along the Emerald Coast each year.

Wine World’s Chan Cox founded the Sandestin Wine Festival more than 30 years ago, providing
the inspiration and backdrop for the launch of the SoWal Wine Festival in 2013. Cox’s longtime
relationships with the best of the best in winemaking (including Peter Mondavi Jr.) created a
strong foundation for the birth of the festival, as well as its continued growth and success.

Today, the festival takes over Grand Boulevard for four days in April and features more than
800 bottles of wine for tasting and countless nibbles for enjoying. Presented by Visit South
Walton, Wine Enthusiast Media and Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, the festival also exists as a
true testament to its community by giving back, with all proceeds supporting Destin Charity
Wine Auction Foundation, benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida.

Enjoying the finer things

Why is this festival such an area staple? Stacey Brady, director of marketing for Grand
Boulevard at Sandestin and executive director of the festival, said it has to do with standards.

“We are very fortunate to enjoy a high quality of life in South Walton. Both locals and visitors
are very engaged in our excellent cultural offerings and South Walton has become a mecca for
people who enjoy the finer things in life and, naturally, a fabulous wine festival would fall into
that category,” Brady said.

Wine enthusiasts’ palates are quenched with the incredible variety of fine wines from around
the world, but foodies also find a place at the festival, with the finest foods offered – including
cheeses, olives, sushi, charcuterie and decadent confections. The inclusion of exclusive tasting
seminars from celebrated industry experts and chefs adds even more flavor to the festival.

“Our festival is the center of the wine world for four days the last weekend in April,” Brady
admitted. “More than 800 wines are presented by knowledgeable wine industry insiders, giving
attendees the opportunity to learn about the wines from people who make them. The town
center of Grand Boulevard is transformed as more than 100 tasting and culinary tents pour
wines from around the globe.”

USA Today named the festival “One of the South’s Standout Food and Beverage Festivals,” not
only for the expansive offerings of food and wine, but also in the different special events,
seminars and entertainment options provided throughout the weekend.

Events get underway with the longtime favorite, Winemakers & Shakers Thursday night at Wine
World in Destin. There are two days of Grand Tastings, a VIP package and a Friday night kick-off
party called Craft Beer & Spirits Jam. The DCWAF holds its annual auction on site, too.

Popular tasting seminars give people the chance to go deeper into their wine festival
experience. Past seminars included Hamilton Russell Vineyards “Cape Wine and Classic
Cuisine,” Maker’s Mark “The Samuels Family Legacy,” “Pairings Across the Board” with Michael
Landis of the Institut de Fromage, and a discussion of the Oregon wine industry with Adelsheim
Vineyard’s David Adelsheim.

The main wine tasting experience takes place in the Florida sunshine, inviting patrons to stroll
from tent to tent for samples, including whites, reds, rosés, champagnes, and even a
designated ‘Spirits Row,’ offering rum, whiskey, bourbon and more.

In years past, the culinary tent has offered such delicacies as Alabama goat cheese fritters with
San Marzano tomato sauce, avocado sourdough with marinated baby tomatoes and Aleppo
pepper, and Heureux beef sliders with aged Gouda, tomato-bacon marmalade, and Coastal Blue
Farms micro arugula. Other not-to-be-missed attractions within the festival are the Rosé All Day
Garden, Nosh Pavilions, and the Craft Beer and Spirits Jam.

Setting sights on 2019

What can returning visitors to the festival expect this year that might be different from years
past?

“We love to mix it up and keep it fresh each year – whether it’s a newly themed area like Rosé
All Day that we just added last year or a fantastic pairing of wines from a certain part of the
world with food from that same area,” explained Brady. “For 2019, we are bringing back Rosé
All Day and planning to present them in groupings from around the world. So, you will be able
to compare French rosés with California rosés or rosés from other great regions.

“Additionally, we will have a focus on wines from Oregon in the Culinary Village, powered by
Wine Enthusiast. Our attendees will love these! Eric Kramer, the winemaker with Jackson
Family Wines’ WillaKenzie is confirmed already and he will also do a tasting seminar.”

The official festival weekend begins Thursday, April 25 with Winemakers and Shakers. Friday,
April 26 offers a VIP tasting (4 to 9 p.m.) and the Craft Beer and Spirits Jam (6 to 9 p.m.). Two
full days of grand tastings follow on Saturday and Sunday, from 1 to 4 p.m. each day. Tickets are
available for special events within the festival, as well as weekend passes – both regular and VIP
– which come with perks such as express entry, priority reserved seating at tasting seminars, a
VIP swag bag, and entry to the exclusive Friday Night VIP tasting.

The South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival is held at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, 495
Grand Boulevard, in Miramar Beach, the last weekend in April each year. For more information
or to purchase tickets, visit sowalwine.com.

This article originally appeared in the 2019 Spring Edition of the Food & Wine Guide for South Walton.

November 12, 2018

Seeing Red Wine heats up amid cooler temps

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Seaside pours over 120 wines, sells out 28th annual festival

By Michelle Farnham

A sudden autumn chill sent 2018 Seeing Red Wine Festival attendees clambering for cozy scarves and the warming effects of a luscious Pinot Noir. There were plenty of Cabs, Sirahs, Merlots, and a few Zins and Chardonnays thrown in for good measure, as well.

Dressed in their fall finest, wine-tasters had their pick of more than 120 bottles from 29 tents during the Nov. 10 grand tasting, pausing to refuel on the culinary offerings of 16 Seaside food purveyors.

Barefoot BBQ, the long-time Seaside Airstream Row tenant, made its debut at the festival, serving up hearty plates of nachos.

“Barbecue nachos are the perfect carry-around food,” explained Pitmaster Murphy. “When I was deciding what to do, I said, ‘We’re doing it all. Pork, chicken, brisket: my three top proteins.’”

Holly Brennan of Santa Rosa Beach hosted a group of ladies from Houston, Dallas, and Mobile, all sporting handmade fall harvest headbands. When asked why her crew wanted to come back to Seeing Red for their fourth year, she laughed while gesturing around her, “Isn’t it obvious?”

Five Daughters Bakery – which recently opened a second location in Rosemary Beach – ventured just steps from the Seaside Square Airstream to participate in its second festival. The table was filled with a trio of uniquely textured tempting treats, including the molasses pecan pie, the huckleberry almond with white chocolate and coconut, and the triple chocolate-dipped cone with sea salt.

“It’s 100 layers of croissant dough, so it’s a mix between a croissant and a donut. It’s a 4-day make process,” explained General Manager Chamiyyah Jones as she handed out charming mini donuts. “The molasses pecan pie has probably been the most popular.”

Across the aisle, Richard Park spoke with patrons from the Three Wine Company table. He poured – among others – the 2017 Old Wines Field Blend and the 2015 Napa Valley Chardonnay Stanly Ranch.

“A lot of zins taste like vanilla and 2x4s, but this one does not,” he said of his 2014 Zinfandel, earning a laugh from the crowd.

Shrimp salad sliders were the order of the day from The Shrimp Shack table, featuring steamed Gulf shrimp tossed in homemade remoulade sauce with onion celery, salt, and pepper.

“We are here right in Seaside, so we always want to participate in the events like this and be part of the community,” said Shrimp Shack General Manager George Eller, as he sauced up another slider.

Seaside newcomers Crepes du Soleil passed out two types of warm crepes, including the poulet (chicken, mushroom, sherried onions and gruyere cheese), and the bananas Foster, with caramelized bananas and Nutella. The sippable frosés – frozen rosé wine blended with honey – were also popular and provided something a little different.

Each year the staff at Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar comes up with a special new dish to serve at Seeing Red. Last year they made brisket enchiladas, but for 2018, it was the Mexican lasagna, featuring layers of corn tortilla, chicken, cheese, red bell pepper, white onion and jalapeño, with a spicy sour cream.

Chef Jim Shirley, a festival sponsor, had both of his Seaside Square restaurants well-represented under the paella tent. After perusing the Porsche sedan on display, one could grab a dish of paella from 45 Central, or Grits à Ya Ya compliments of Great Southern Café.

Other culinary partners included Amavida Coffee & Tea, Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, Pickle’s Burgers & Shakes, Raw & Juicy, Seaside Farmers Market and Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co.

The festival, in its 28th year, spanned four days and also included the Bud & Alley’s Vintner Dinner featuring J. Lohr, a Gulf Coast-to-Table dinner with Chefs Jim Shirley and Zachary Keaton at Ruskin Place, and Sunday’s Celebration of Bubbles Brunch.

Photos courtesy of Michelle Farnham. For additional photos from the 2018 Seeing Red Wine Festival, be sure and visit us on Facebook.

March 6, 2015

3 for 30a- 30a Wine Festival Edition

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By Natalie Haddock

As we all get ready for spring by moving our clocks forward, the Alys Foundation and the community of Alys Beach is kicking off the season with their fourth annual 30A Wine Festival this March 6, 7, and 8. Single day Saturday tickets are available as well as weekend passes to attend the majority of the festival activities. Additional tickets are also available for Friday’s Bourbon, Beer, and Butts event and for Saturday’s Tasting Workshop. Proceeds will help benefit the Children’s Volunteer Health Network.

Friday March 6 – The Alys Beach Wine festival kicks off on Friday with a night of bourbon, beer, and barbecue tastings at Kelly Green from 6-9 p.m. Local food truck favorite Barefoot BBQ is one of the featured vendors will be serving up delicious smoked hormone, steroid and antibiotic free meats. Listen to the soulful stylings of blues artist Eric Lindell as you sample some of the 25 fine bourbon options or sip on one of the refreshing craft brews from either Grayton Beer, Idyll Hounds, Oyster City, Props, Sweetwater, or Proof Brewing Company. Tickets are available separate from the Wine Festival or may be bought in conjunction with a weekend pass. For more information about this portion of the event visit http://www.30awinefestival.com/b3/

Saturday, March 7 – Grand Tasting will begin on Saturday starting at 3:30 and will run until 6:00 p.m. at the North Garden Sea Walk. Attendees are invited to mingle along the Alys Beach corridors to sample featured wines from over 20 vintner’s stations. The festival’s official after party, “Wine Under the Stars”, will then commence at Fire Pit Park from 6-8 p.m. with live music from the groove band Fearless Heights. Light food fare will be also provided throughout the day by local restaurants such as Bud & Alley’s, Charlie’s Donuts, and Seagars.
Looking to delve in a little deeper? This Saturday morning also starts with a Riedel Tasting Workshop at Arboleda Park. This workshop will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is to demonstrate the usage of a Riedel glass in identifying aromas and flavor profiles. Tickets for this workshop are available separate from the festival’s weekend pass.

Sunday, March 8 – Be sure to wear your best whites as the festivities will wind down with the third annual Croquet Tournament from 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Kelly Green. Caliza chef Kevin Korman and Café Thirty-A chef Ken Duenas will be serving an impressive seafood lunch, complete with Sancerre wine pairings, and acoustic rock singer Kyle LaMonica will be on site to play out the afternoon.
For more information about the festival and for details about the work done through the Children’s Volunteer Health Network visit http://www.30awinefestival.com/