If you love wine, especially Arizona wine, there’s no better place to be Sept. 27 and 28 than the 6th annual Sedona Winefest. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 2,500 wine lovers will pack tents on Airport Mesa, sampling wine from more than 15 Arizona wineries, enjoying live music, shopping for art and wine merchandise, and taking 30-minute food and wine classes.
This year, organizers have expanded the education tent. Lecture topics include food and wine pairings, the difference between wine regions and lessons on growing grapes in the Verde Valley. Organizers have also expanded the VIP tent to include more seating. A designated VIP chef, Chris Smith, owner of Seed Restaurant in Cottonwood, will serve appetizers. VIP tickets also include valet parking. VIP passes for Saturday sell out every year, so it’s advisable to purchase yours in advance.
For general admission ticket holders, there will be food for sale from five area restaurants. This year, the wine festival has partnered with the Sedona Arts Center for a sale and exhibition of local art. Look for a display on Yavapai College’s viticulture program as well as cheese and chocolate vendors.
General admission tickets are $20 or $15 for veterans and seniors when purchased in advance online. (Online ticket sales end Sept. 25.) At the door, general admission tickets are $25 and $20. Admission includes six tasting tickets and an etched commemorative glass. VIP Premium tickets are $40 when purchased in advance or $45 at the door, if they are still available. VIPs have their own special tent with a private patio. They receive eight tasting tickets, a stemmed, etched commemorative glass, light snacks and valet parking.
Those who aren’t wine drinkers or who are acting as designated drivers can attend the event for free and enjoy the art and music. Organizers are also looking for volunteers. Volunteers will receive one general admission ticket to the festival. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit www.sedonawinefest.com or call 928-301-0398. ––Erika Ayn Finch
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