Three Weeks Remain in Countdown to 28th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival

DESTIN, Fla., March 20, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Only three weeks remain until the kick-off of the 28^th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival at the magnificent Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Northwest Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast.

Thousands of wine enthusiasts and fun-seekers are expected for this grand celebration, which takes place April 10-13 in Sandestin's Village of Baytowne Wharf and at the adjacent Baytowne Marina.

Affectionately referred to as "the Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals," the event is a rare opportunity to sample a great number of wines from around the world, as well as to interact with various winemakers. The range of festival experiences includes grand wine tastings, delicious food pairings, a Sunday champagne brunch, and the sale of featured wine products at special discount prices.

Launched nearly 30 years ago, the Sandestin Wine Festival today is the most-established and longest continuously running wine festival in the Southern United States.  Named "Best Annual Event" by the area's Destin magazine, it also is regarded as one the most-successful festival programs in the Southeast.

"We're extremely proud of the festival's historic rise and the countless memories the event has created for fans over the years.  We're sure this year's festival will live up to its reputation," said Dan Keyser, executive director of resort sales for Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.

"There will be ample opportunities for guests to taste these superb wine products from great wine-producing spots around the globe," Keyser said.  "It's the perfect time of year for enjoying the festival and a chance for visitors to discover Sandestin's exceptional character and stunning style."

"Uncork Some Fun"

"Uncork some fun in the sun" is the theme for this year's Sandestin Wine Festival.

The wine festival's signature white tents will host pourings from up to 75 labels from major wine-producing countries such as Argentina, Chile, France, Italy, New Zealand, Spain and the United States.

Top wine labels and wine and spirits vendors scheduled to participate in the festival include Alexander Valley Vineyards, BNA Wine Group, Bogle Vineyards, Chaste No. 850, Coppola Wines, Ketel One Vodka, Mercer Estate Winery, Prestige Wine Imports, and Wente Vineyards. 

Chief sponsors of the 28th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival include Coastal Living magazine, Fresh Produce women's apparel and accessories, Visit South Walton, and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits.

Festival highlights include Thursday night Wine Dinners, a Friday kick-off Champagne & Seafood Cruise, live entertainment, a Sunday Champagne Brunch plus numerous Wine Tastings and Culinary Events throughout the weekend. A complete listing of festival events can be found at www.SandestinWineFestival.com.

About the Festival

Tickets for the 2014 wine festival can be purchased at SandestinWineFestival.com and prices range from $55 to $85 per person depending on the event.

Individuals must be at least 21 years of age to taste wines at the Sandestin Wine Festival. Non-drinking festival guests are welcome to attend the Grand Wine Tasting with their family or friends at no charge and without a wristband.

Complimentary tram rides are provided from the event parking lot to the festival area.

In the event of inclement weather, tents will provide cover throughout the festival.

A special discount package is available for festival attendees staying at the resort. Room rates for festival guests start at $179 per night* with promotion code "WINE14" when making reservations. The package includes complimentary tram service during the weekend's events. 

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has repeatedly been voted the No. 1 resort on Florida's Emerald Coast, by the readers of Emerald Coast magazine. The 2,400 acre resort sits near the picturesque area of Destin, which TripAdvisor has ranked No. 3 among its "top 10 destinations on the rise" in the United States.

It offers a variety of vacation rental accommodations; golf, tennis and water sports; sugary beaches, with full beach services; a marina; walking and biking trails; fitness center and day spa; and a pedestrian village, complete with shopping, dining and night life.

More information can be found at sandestin.com/wine. Reservations can be booked online or by calling 866.91.BEACH (866-912-3224).

SOURCE Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort