Sip, swirl and savor these standout tents at this year’s Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival
Ultimate pours
Clear your calendar and uncork the excitement — March 23-29 marks the return of the 40th annual Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, a weeklong celebration of exceptional pours, gourmet flavors and island charm. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just here for the fun, this year’s lineup is brimming with can’t-miss tastings, expert-led seminars and exclusive local events. The main event? The Public Tasting on March 29 at Celebration Park, where 250-plus world-class wines, craft beers and spirits take center stage. With so many sips to discover, festival director Jeff Geber spills the details on the hottest tents you won’t want to miss.
Alexander Valley Vineyards
Their wines always show well at the judging, and they have been voted Best in Show four or five times in the last 40 years. They also have a great range, from affordable everyday wines to special-occasion wines. They also “lay their wines down” more than average. So the vintages are usually a little older than most other wines in the same price range.
Craft beer
All the craft beer tents are local breweries, and all are worth visiting if you enjoy craft beer. The two I find myself visiting the most are Lincoln & South and Lot 9. John and Walt both make amazing beer. Also, both breweries have supported our partnership with Ales for ALS in raising money for research in fighting this terrible disease.
Spirits
How can you not visit the Burnt Church Distillery tent? They have amazing products, and I always enjoy their offerings. We will also have many other local distilleries participating, so you will have an opportunity to try spirits that are not available for most of our visitors. It’s exciting when you find something new that you love.
Kobrand Wine & Spirits
They always have a great variety. There are usually bubbles, rosé and great whites and reds at their tent. I always visit and say hello to Sean and Erica.
2024 winners
Best in Show Champagne/Sparkling: Nicolas Feuillatte RSV Brut – Champagne (France) – NV
Best in Show White: Rolly Gassmann Riesling – Alsace (France) – 2019
Best in Show Red: Vineyard 29 Ceanda Cabernet Sauvignon – St. Helena (Napa) – 2019
