Charleston Wine + Food: Spirited Events

Charleston Wine + Food is back for its 13th season! With 109 events happening over five days, there’s something for everyone, and we’re proud to once again sponsor the Iron Mixologist competition as well as a series of spirit-focused workshops. Some events have already sold out, so get your tickets soon—here are some highlights.

THURSDAY, MARCH 1

Vermouth: Much More Than Martinis
Tad Carducci, award-winning author, bartender and spirits educator will share a little history and tradition and reveal why vermouth is such a versatile and complex ingredient.

Holy Smokes
Mezcal expert Jason Cox will walk guests through the nuances and complexities of Mexico’s native spirit.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

Southern Sippin’ with High Wire Distilling Co.
Jerry Slater, one of the South’s most respected beverage experts and recent author of The Southern Foodways Alliance Guide to Cocktails, will explore the makings of the South’s finest libations.

Iron Mixologist
Four of Charleston’s finest bartenders will battle through three rounds of cocktail combat in a series of challenges demanding creativity, speed, quick thinking and composure behind the bar. Imbibe Associate Editor, Penelope Bass, will be on hand to judge.

Whiskey to the Finish
Jillian Vose, Beverage Director of The Dead Rabbit in NYC, will share her expertise as guests taste through a variety of uniquely finished whiskeys.

Absinthe Minded
Experience the green fairy with help from Will Elliott of Maison Premiere. Hosted in The Living Room of The Dewberry hotel, guests will learn about common absinthe myths and find out how to incorporate this spirit into cocktails.

Big Daddy Bourbon
Fourth-generation bourbon whiskey producer Preston Van Winkle will guide guests through a tasting of this beloved brown spirit.

Te Amo, Tequila
Morgan Hurley, a local agave aficionado, will walk guests through a tasting of six tequilas and teach guests about cultivation, harvesting practices and how the various flavors are represented in the glass.