Wine lovers can uncork a variety of vintages to savour on their palates during the upcoming Nanaimo Wine Festival Oct. 26.
The festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary, features more than 200 wines from the Island and around the world. It allows people to taste and compare a wide selection of wine and enjoy a selection of appetizers from local restaurants and grocery stores.
“The real star of the show is the wine. We have a really great lineup of wineries this year,” said Trish Newton Segal, festival organizer.
Segal started the festival, which is sponsored by 102.3 The Wave, and said she’s been excited to see how it’s grown.
Attendees can speak to wine makers and agents while enjoying musical entertainment by Ask Alice, a trio that performs Nuevo flamenco originals and popular music. They also receive a commemorative wine glass and can enter to win door prizes including a weekend for two to Parksville’s Uncorked Wine and Food Festival in February which includes a night at the Tigh-Na-Mara and a night at the Beach Club Resort.
A portion of festival proceeds go to the Nanaimo Fire Fighter Association’s Fire Safety House.
Safe rides home after enjoying some of the festival wines is important, said Segal, so the festival is offering free $2.50 vouchers for a ride home with A.C. Taxi.
The festival is at the Beban Park social centre, 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $40 and available in advance only from the Quarterway, Landlubber, Wellington, Windward, Northgate and University Village liquor stores, Tally Ho Beer and Wine Store and Bayside Wine and Spirits.
For more information please go to www.nanaimowinefestival.com.