I’ve been hearing about Wines of the World for the last couple of months now, in that it is a must-experience event with an incredible line-up of wines. So when, I received an invite to attend, I happily accepted — and I knew I was in for a wonderful experience. Wines of the World, now in it’s 18th year, is presented by Wine Watch and goes to benefit Symphony of the Americas. Over 300 food & wine enthusiasts, supporters of the symphony and sponsors came together at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 on Fri., Nov. 15th to experience a Vintner’s Tasting Tour, a VIP reception with Kathryn Hall, 5-course dinner and a silent and live auction — all to support the Symphony of the Americas.
Our first stop was at the Duckhorn table, where we sampled a beautiful Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley. This bottle of wine offered bright flavors of cherry & strawberry with a hint of spice — and was a perfect beginning to the night.
Now that was only the beginning as when we entered the reception area, we were surrounded by a roomful of fine wines, gourmet bites and fantastic auction prizes. The group happily sipped their way around the room, discovering new favorites and sharing their discoveries with other enthusiasts. From Duckhorn to shadowbox to Becker Vineyards to Finca de la Rica, it was not difficult to keep your glass full.
To add to this year’s event — and add some competition along the way, students from The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale were invited in to show off their skills. Participating students sampled off a small bite for the group to enjoy and the winning dish went home with a scholarship fund.
While the reception was an event in itself, the time had come to move into the main dining room for the dinner and auction. We quickly found our table — and while a vintner (or brand manager) was seated at every table, we just happened to have three, all eager to share their treasures with us. With a glass of Garnacha, Justin Cabernet Franc and Silver Oak Cabernet in front of me — what more can I ask for? A sumptuous menu, of course.
We were treated to a 5-course dinner presented by the 2013 Honored Chef Gregory McGowan (Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six); Oliver Saucy (Cafe Maxx); Angelo Elia (Casa D’Angelo); and more. Our senses were delighted, as we savored the Smoked Salmon, Mushroom Risotto, Duet of Beef, assorted cheeses and a stunning Pumpkin Panna Cotta with a vanilla honey sauce — paired with fines wines, of course.
Wines of the World continued into the evening with live music, dancing and the live auction. It was a stunning event (and one of the top wine events I’ve experienced in quite some time), filled with elegance and pizazz, bringing together a great line-up of wines, top-notch chefs and those passionate for supporting the Symphony of the Americas.