This past weekend marked the 10th anniversary of the South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Wine Spectator has been a longtime sponsor of several wine and cigar events, partnering with Southern Wine and Spirits, the organizer of the festival. More than 53,000 attendees enjoyed a wealth of wines, food and sunshine as the thermometer topped 80° F over the four-day event. The proceeds benefit Florida International University's School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.
It was a particularly strong series of events from a wine perspective this year. Friday kicked off with the Wine Spectator-sponsored Trade Day tasting in the big tents on the beach. In the four years I have attended this event, it seemed to be the most crowded yet, with 7,000 attendees. Hopefully this is a sign that the economy is finally picking up.