As with most local fests slated to take place during pandemic times, Cincinnati’s International Wine Festival will look a little different this year. But fear not, Vino lovers, there are still plenty of ways to get sippin’.
The in-person event is postponed until October 1 and 2 at the Duke Energy Convention Center, but organizers are offering an at-home, virtual Zoom celebration on March 18 at 7 p.m. to continue the tradition, with several different packages to choose from.
Cincy Wine Fest @ Home, presented by Kroger and 19/19 Investment Council, will benefit more than thirty local charities while offering wine tastings and interactive programs which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home.
“Our new Cincy Wine Fest @ Home experience is perfect for those who want to learn, ask questions and acquire their tastes in a supportive, relaxed, comfortable environment,” says Kelly Weissmann, executive director of Cincinnati International Wine Festival.
Choose from three different interactive party kits, ranging in price from $75-$295 per “ticket.”
Each ticket for two includes three bottles of wine, two GoVino shatterproof wine glasses and an exclusive virtual wine tasting led by a winery host.
Pricier options include a reusable wine festival tote bag, a cocktail kit, corkscrew, cheese, hors d’oeuvres, dessert or appetizers.
Programs like mixology, cheese and wine pairing, a wine expert Q&A and virtual socializing with other Cincinnatians are also part of the Cincy Wine Fest @ Home experience. Guests will randomly be divided into Zoom rooms with one of 18 wine experts.
Tickets are on sale until March 14 or until sold out. The website reminds guests that tickets are “EXTREMELY limited.”
The first two tiers of tickets must be picked up from Fueled Collective 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on March 17, or 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on March 18. Aficionado ticket holders can have their package shipped to their home (within a designated area).
Since the festival began in 1991, more than $6 million has been donated to local charities that focus on the arts, education, health and human services. A portion of the proceeds from Cincy Wine Fest @ Home will benefit the charity partners of Cincinnati International Wine Festival.
For more info, visit winefestival.com
