By: Sally Baker

There is a certain society when it comes to wine lovers in Tampa.  These individuals know when the finest wine events in Tampa will be, and how to get their hands on those precious tickets.  From Spring to the end of Summer are when these popular Tampa wine events occur, some benefiting nonprofit organizations and lasting for more than a single day.  Find out about Tampa’s wine events and decide which ones, if not all, you will want to attend.

Southern Charm Wine & Food Gala – This wine event in Tampa, held by The Greater Brandon Community Foundation, is fairly new to the scene but growing at a rate that is unheard of in most events.  The first year was held at Pepin where the beautiful and classy people of Tampa Bay flocked to enjoy incredible wines, food, upscale ambiance and VIP treatment for a lucky few.  The 2nd annual event is set to be held at the Straz Center, as this event has already outgrown its first large location.  Tampa wine lovers wait in anticipation to attend this event and experience everything and more from the prior year’s event.

Tampa Theatre Wine Fest – Another Tampa wine event held in September in benefit for the Tampa Theatre, a favored landmark in the city.  The Tampa Theatre Wine Fest has held their annual event for an entire decade.  Each year, this event hosts a particular theme such as The Vineyard of Oz, The Grape Gatsby, How the West was Wine, The Grapefather and  for their 10th annual event, La Dolce Vino.  This three day wine event in Tampa will be full of Tampa Bay’s finest sipping on impeccable flavors and enjoying the one of a kind environment and detail that encompasses the Tampa Theatre.

Bern’s Winefest – In April, Bern’s hosts their annual wine fest which lasts a total of four days.  Each day has a different event and itinerary: A winemaker dinner, soiree, VIP party, grand tasting and more.  Additional entertainment and amenities include a silent auction, VIP options and suites.  This Tampa wine event tends to sell out each year so it is wise to get your tickets in advance.

SeaGrapes – This wine event in Tampa is arguably one of the most beautiful, being held at The Florida Aquarium each year.  SeaGrapes in an upscale, romantic evening that has special amenities for VIP guests, silent auctions, delicious cuisines and of course incredibly fine wines.  Most Tampa wine lovers both know of, and attend, this event each year as it is one of the best ways to spoil your palate and other senses from sight to sound.

Wines on the Wild Side – For those who want the more casual of wine events in Tampa, check out Wines on the Wild Side, hosted by Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo.  Tickets are incredibly affordable and attire is tropical themed.  This is definitely one of the more relaxed and fun ways to enjoy a wine event, as well as pairing it with one of the cigars that will be available.

There you have it, the wine events in Tampa.  From galas to festivals, single evenings to multiple days, these are the events that no wine lover in the area should miss.  Start adding to your calendars but don’t forget your tickets because all of these events sell out very quickly!