The 28th Winefest at Bern’s Steak House is set to take place in Tampa, with the main event taking place on April 27. This year’s event promises to be an exciting experience for wine enthusiasts, with a wide selection of wines to sample and a chance to support emerging chefs. **Tasting Experience**
The main event will be held at the Haven restaurant from noon to 4 p.m., where visitors can sample from 300 bottles of wine. The tasting will feature a variety of wines, including some of the world’s top picks, with the star wine being Wine Spectator’s top pick: the 2021 Don Melchor. Guests will also have the opportunity to snack on fancy bites, including caviar, sweets, and cheese plates.
- Some of the unique grapes and wines that will be available include:
- Wine from the top winemakers in the world
- Rare and unique varieties of wine
- Earth-friendly wines made from sustainable grapes
**Supporting Emerging Chefs**
The Winefest is not just about the wine; it’s also about supporting emerging chefs. Throughout the week, top chefs will pair wines with special meals, with the Epicurean Hotel hosting a dinner with chef Jon Atanacio cooking four courses to match Ruinart Champagne. The event will also feature a dinner at the Haven restaurant, where chef Chad Johnson will create five dishes perfect for Bordeaux wines.
| Restaurant | Dinner Details | Chef |
|---|---|---|
| Epicurean Hotel | Four-course dinner to match Ruinart Champagne | Jon Atanacio |
| Haven | Five-course dinner featuring Bordeaux wines | Chad Johnson |
**Auction and Online Bidding**
While this year’s events have reached capacity, wine fans can still participate in the online auction, which will kick off on April 22. The auction will be held on the foundation’s website and social channels, and fans can bid on the unique wines available.
“In addition to the dinners, we hold an auction every year, where proceeds directly benefit the Bern Laxer Memorial Scholarship Fund,” said Chris Belk to the Tampa Bay Times. So far, 31 students studying food, service, and wine have received help for school.
**Valet Parking and Accommodations**
Visitors can park their cars for free at the Haven restaurant, or opt for valet parking on Morrison Avenue. For those who want to stay overnight, the Epicurean Hotel offers accommodations, providing a convenient and comfortable stay for attendees. Key Details:
* Date: April 27
* Time: Noon to 4 p.m. * Location: Haven restaurant, Tampa
* Tickets: Sold out
* Online Auction: April 22 – April 27
* Accommodations: Epicurean Hotel
The 28th Winefest at Bern’s Steak House is a unique and exciting event that offers wine enthusiasts a chance to sample from 300 bottles of wine, support emerging chefs, and participate in an online auction. With its focus on earth-friendly winemaking and unique grapes, this event is not to be missed.
The Bern Laxer Memorial Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to students studying food, service, and wine.
The Winefest is an annual event that brings together wine enthusiasts, chefs, and restaurateurs for a day of wine tasting and culinary delights.