By:Shaunya Hartley
With the Big Apple ranked number two as an American Wine Tourism Destination, both upper and lower New York state are epicenters for vino lovers to educate, experiment and of course, taste at a number of wine festivals this summer. Not sure which ones to attend, have no fear, we’ve narrowed it down to the top five this summer where you can swirl, sip and spit.
Big Apple Zinfandel Experience
June 16
Union Square Ballroom
http://www.newyorkwineevents.com/events/zinfandel-experience/
Engage in one on one conversations with over 20 winemakers and learn about the cult grape of California, as you meet with the rising stars in the development and evolution of Zinfandel.
North Fork Crush Wine & Artisanal Food Festival
June 25
Jamesport, NY
Head out east to the Napa of New York and sip on artisanal foods, taste over 100 wines and meet the actual creators of some of your favorite East coast purveyors under a tent for true comfort.
Pinknic
July 9 and 10th
Governor’s Island
Brought to you by the creators of La Nuit en Rose, the largest rose themed picnic and music festival debuts at Governor’s Island over two days. With a dress code of pink and white, the entire island will also be swathed in blush tones and your favorite rose makers like Moet& Chandon will be there for you to sip into the sunset.
Uncorked
July 16
Metropolitan Pavilion
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/uncorked-ny-wine-festival-tickets-24938014272
Sample from 50 different wineries and over 100 wines along with live music, gourmet food vendors and a bubbly bar all for you to sip in the ambiance and have tons of fun in Chelsea.
Finger Lakes Wine Festival
July 15, 16, 17
Finger Lakes NY
http://www.flwinefest.com/Festival/Festival.aspx
Make a romantic weekend out of this festival with award winning wineries as well as numerous farm to table food vendors to learn about the surge in popularity of this central New York area more known for forestry and historical relevance.
