October has finally arrived, and it marks the arrival of the St. Simons Island Wine Festival. The event, highly anticipated by both local wine enthusiasts and visitors, offers a world-class experience with hand-curated selections and the opportunity to learn about these tempting tipples by wine professionals from around the globe. While details about the event were shared earlier in this issue, here are several expert recommendations to help you maximize your enjoyment of this fun-filled weekend while tasting your way through hundreds of wines.
Whether you’re a seasoned festivalgoer or planning your first visit, making the most of any wine festival weekend starts with a little strategy. I recommend taking a few minutes to scan through the wine line up. Look at which wineries/producers will be present and make a list of those you are most eager to taste. I like to pick ten or so that I absolutely must taste while my palate is fresh. Now that you have cherry-picked the list, it’s time to grab that glass and get moving. Speaking of your glass, it is best to only hold it by the stem, not the bowl. This prevents your hand from altering the temperature while keeping your fingerprints off the glass, allowing you to admire the wine’s color through a clear goblet.
I’m sure everyone is familiar with the rhetorical question, “Does a Sommelier spit in the woods?” Absolutely they do! Wine festivals are about sampling, not slamming. Take small swigs, savor the flavors, and pace yourself. Spittoons are provided for good reason. Don’t be shy, they are there to help you taste more without overindulging. If you’re unsure how to use one, a discreet lean and spit will do the trick. With so many wines to taste, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Take regular breaks and remember to drink water. This will ensure your palate stays fresh and you remain energized for the festivities.
One of the cardinal sins at wine festivals is wearing perfume or cologne. Wine tasting is a deeply aromatic experience. Strong scents can interfere with your (and others’) ability to detect the nuanced bouquet of a wine. A whiff of essential oil or citrus musk might overpower delicate notes of elderflower or wet stone. Skip the spritz, save the patchouli for a Phish concert and let the wine be the star of the olfactory show.
Now that the SSI Wine festival is nearly here, let yourself be swept into its festive spirit. Gather your friends, sharpen your palate, and embrace the grapes. You may just discover that October is not only your new favorite month, but the beginning of cherished traditions for years to come. We will see you there!
Comprehensive details about the festival are available at ssiwinefestival.com.
