The countdown is on for wine enthusiasts across the Gulf South who will be descending on The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort for the 35th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival along the beautiful, breezy shores of South Walton Florida. Taking place April 7-10, 2022, the four-day event sees well over 4,000 attendees from across the region who enjoy the picture-perfect opportunity to sip and sample fine wines from around the world while nibbling on gourmet foods from Savor South Walton.
“The Sandestin Wine Festival is the most established, continuously running wine festival in Walton County,” says Leighann Elliott, Events Manager at The Village of Baytowne Wharf. “Celebrating its 35th year, the festival is known as the ‘Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals’ because of its grandeur and tradition, and this year will be no exception.”
The Sandestin Wine Festival features one-of-a-kind seminars, wine dinners, grand wine tastings and culinary experiences, all tucked within the charming and relaxing community known as The Village of Baytowne Wharf, which features shops, dining, and convenient accommodations to the festival.
“This event continues to bring a wide range of experiences for all guests, including meeting wine experts from across the globe and having the opportunity to taste unique, hand-selected wines,” says Elliott. “We work with great sponsors and community partners such as Savor South Walton and love the continued support from all of our locals and visitors.”
The event kicks off Thursday, April 7 with the Sandestin Wine Festival Kickoff Party, featuring food tastings, wine, and liquor samples. Throughout the festival, wine dinners and seminars are available for those looking to increase their sommelier skills and knowledge at Village restaurants.
The Grand Wine Tastings take place on Friday and Saturday, April 8-9, and host national and international vineyard representatives who provide the rare opportunity to chat about the finest appellations from all major wine-producing countries across all varieties, styles, and price ranges. With over 75 breezy, white tents, the Grand Wine Tastings keep the wine flowing from every corner of the Village and the world. Meanwhile, local culinary talent is highlighted with food pairings that differ from day to day and live music keeps spirits high and toes tapping from tent to tent.
On Sunday, April 10, “Seas the Day” offers yoga on the beach, presented by Hotel Effie & Spa Liliana. Guests are invited to enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches of South Walton with a yoga session capped off with mimosas.
Proceeds from the festival support Fisher House of the Emerald Coast & Sandestin Foundation for Kids, delivering great wine for a great cause.
“It takes a village to run a ‘Village’ and a spectacular event like this, and we work hard to make this rewarding festival vibrant and fun, year after year,” says Elliott.
