I had the opportunity to attend my first San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival’s “The Grand Decant” and “The Grand Tasting” events. These wonderful events are hosted by SommCon® which is made up of the country’s top sommeliers, wineries and winemakers. Not only did attendees enjoy the beauty of the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina and the San Diego Embarcadero area but we also had an opportunity to expand our palate’s while tasting from over 200 domestic and international wineries representing more than 500 wines.
I really enjoyed sampling a variety of wines and culinary offerings! It was also great seeing my hometown of Temecula Valley represented.
The Grand Decant Event was held:
FRIDAY
NOVEMBER 16, 2018
MARRIOTT MARQUIS SAN DIEGO MARINA
333 West Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
Map:
The Grand Tasting Event was held:
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 17, 2018
SAN DIEGO EMBARCADERO MARINA PARK NORTH
400 Kettner Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92101
Map:
After attending, I can understand why this weekend is so popular. There was a plethora of wineries offering tastings in a festive setting. This also allowed for conversations with the winery’s staff to learn more about each of the wines. I love all kinds of wine but I have a real passion for sparkling wines and champagnes. I was very excited to see how many wineries offered these selections. If you would like to know more about the bubbly choices offered during the events, check out this article:
I was so impressed that I am planning to attend again next year. I would like to share a few tips that I believe will enhance your experience should you decide to take part in this fabulous experience.
5StarTips🌟 For enjoying the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival – Grand Decant and Grand Tasting:
🌟 Purchase Your Tickets Early!
This is a highly attended event and this year sold out again. For future ticket information go to:
The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival Tickets
🌟 Consider Purchasing a Package.
The event goes for two days and several packages were offered for purchase. I loved both The Grand Decant and Grand Tasting events. They are not to be missed!
They offer a Premium VIP Package that I would suggest as an Always5Star way to enjoy the events.
The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival Premium VIP Package Information
🌟 Plan To Stay the Weekend or the Night Nearby
You will want to enjoy the wines and not have to worry about driving, I would strongly suggest booking a room at either the Marriott Marquis (where The Grand Decant is held) or at a nearby hotel that is within walking distance. I was glad I booked a room at the Andaz San Diego. I was able to walk to and from the event and not have to worry about parking or driving (the hotel offered parking privileges during my stay). It made for a fabulous weekend getaway in gorgeous San Diego, California!
🌟 Have a Bite to Eat Before Attending the Grand Decant Evening Event!
Try a restaurant in the Gas Lamp District! You will want to have some dinner before attending this event. They did offer some cheeses and breads, however the lines were quite long. I chose to have an early dinner and then enjoyed a late-night snack after the event. This worked out perfectly for me and enhanced the wine tasting.
🌟 Take the Time to Stop and Ask Questions – Learn About the Wines and Culinary Delights
Several of the winery’s tastings were poured by either the owner or winemaker. This is a perfect opportunity to not only taste a new wine but to learn about the passion and artistic talent that went into creating it.
🌟 Suggested Attire:
The attire for the Grand Decant night is sophisticated casual (indoors).
For the Grand Tasting, it is resort casual (outdoors).
My friend, Kevin Wilkerson from Pubclub.com also attended the event. He has two wonderful articles that speak to his experience. Click below for more information:
San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival Shines Again In 2018: A Review
Pacific Beach Fish Shop Wins Taco TKO At San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival
Final Thoughts:
I really learned so much at these events about some lovely wines! I look forward to attending this event next year and I hope that you join me there too! All that attend are sure to have an Alway5Star experience! Cheers! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“Wine is the only artwork you can drink”
– Luis Fernando Olaverri
Note: This was a sponsored opportunity with San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival to attend the events. However, the opinions expressed in this article are my own. I was not compensated for writing this post or endorsing any of the wines.
About Pamela Rossi
I am passionate about travel and taking each moment and making it a five star experience. My goal is to create those experiences for YOU!
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