Santa Monica, CA – Glasses clinked and pinot poured as hundreds of wine lovers cheered to the second annual Santa Monica Wine Fest this year.
Nestled inside the Barker Hanger at Santa Monica Airport, the two-day event featured tasting stations of 100 wines from more than 30 wineries from around the world.
Local wineries and distributors included Vinemark Cellars in Sherman Oaks, Two Papas in Santa Clarita and AJA Vineyards in Malibu.
“We believe that wine is one of life’s greatest pleasures,” said a festival spokesperson. “Wine is a lifestyle; it’s really all about how wine can make you feel and the people you’ll meet and share it with.”
Walking around, spectators could find various booths pouring wines and learning about the various kinds of drinks being served, including Bev rose’.
For those looking to up their wine game from attendee to afficionado, the festival offered complimentary masterclasses on the mainstage. These included Look, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, Merlot is Back Baby, and Taste the Unexpected: Why Chile is the Best Place for Cabernet.
Katie Wayland, a festival attendee, made no secret of the fact that she was stoked about the masterclasses available during the festival.
“It’s exciting to be able to talk with all the different winemakers and wine fans to learn more about wine from around the world,” Wayland said. “The masterclasses are so cool because you get to hear from top experts in their field.”
Proceeds of the festival benefited the Surfrider Foundation, dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans. For more information on the Santa Monica Wine Fest visit santamonicawinefest.com.
