There’s nothing quite like sipping fine wine and enjoying fresh seafood by the shore. South Walton Beach in Florida offers exactly that with two outstanding spring festivals. From April 10–13, the 28th Annual Sandestin Wine Festival takes place at Baytowne Wharf, celebrating wines from around the globe. Featured events include a Champagne & Seafood Cruise on April 11, Grand Wine Tasting sessions on April 11 and 12, and a relaxed Sunday Champagne Brunch at Baytowne Marina on April 13.
Later in April, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival runs April 24–27, bringing together day-boat seafood, pristine white-sand beaches and an impressive selection of wines. The festival presents more than 800 wines and includes appearances by celebrity chefs and vintners; Chef Emeril Lagasse will appear on April 26. Produced by Visit South Walton, Wine Enthusiast Magazine and the Lagasse Foundation, the four-day event highlights the Culinary Village, where visitors can enjoy expert pairings and sample local specialties such as Panhandle paella, Gulf Coast seafood gumbo, oyster shooters and Floribbean tacos.
Both festivals offer excellent opportunities to discover new wines, meet winemakers, and pair exceptional vintages with regionally sourced seafood. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere and organized tastings at Baytowne Wharf or the beachside charm and culinary showcases of South Walton Beaches, spring provides an ideal time to experience Florida’s coastal flavors.
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Food: Chef Sumio ‘Sam’ Miyashita, Hadashi, Destin, Fla.
Wine & Spirits: J. Lohr Vineyards, Calif.