Alys Beach celebrates 10th annual 30A Wine Festival
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.
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.
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.
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.