On February 17th, the 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (SFCWC) held its 18th annual Public Tasting at Fort Mason Center’s Festival Pavilion. The event, presented by BevMo!, was an unforgettable celebration of wine, food, and great company. The weather couldn’t have been better—there wasn’t a cloud in the sky—so everyone enjoyed the sun and gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge while sipping their new favorite wines.
Each guest who entered the Festival Pavilion received a commemorative wine glass and a copy of the San Francisco Chronicle Special Wine Section, which featured the list of this year’s gold and above winning wines. They were also presented with a small loaf of fresh bread from Costeaux Bakery and a bottle of HINT water.
Hundreds of wineries were represented at the Tasting, with the tables stretching in long rows all the way down the Pavilion. At each table, friendly winery representatives poured their award winning wines, chatting animatedly and educating the public about what exactly makes their wines so special. Local food vendors provided delicious food options to pair with each sip!
This year’s event was a packed house. Many groups make an annual tradition of attending the tasting. This year was no exception, as there were many reunions and repeat guests alongside the newcomers.
To add to the fun, the San Francisco Chronicle provided a photo booth where guests could pose with their friends to get photos of themselves in front of a backdrop of a winery or vineyard. KGO Radio talents, including Chip Franklin, were also present at the event, providing another entertaining photo opportunity.
“The SFCWC Public Tasting is a truly special event. It is an amazing opportunity for our guests to taste wines from hundreds of distinguished wineries, all gathered in one place,” said Bob Fraser, SFCWC Executive Director.
Be sure to mark a space on your calendar for next year’s San Francisco Chronicle Public Tasting in February 2019. See you then!
