Let’s imagine how much cooler college would have been with a course called The Science of Wine. Sign us up for courses I and II, please!
On Friday, April 30, The Science of Wine, one of Central Florida’s premier wine events, returned for the sixth consecutive year with hundreds of wine enthusiasts in attendance. The interactive evening, filled to the brim tastings of fine wines from the world’s major regions, benefitted the Orlando Science Center (OSC). If you’re reading this, we are officially friends, so I can share that I don’t even drink, and this event has gone down in the books as one of Spork Orlando’s local favorites. Luckily, my sidekick for the evening kept her glass full and served as my official drink tester.
Before we get started, click here to find out what kind of vino matches your personality with BuzzFeed’s wine quiz!
1. Yes Way, Rosé // With more than 150 fine wines poured from all around the world, guests left with a newfound appreciation for the many varietals available both locally and abroad. Julie Pepi, a fine wine director and second-level sommelier, led a sold-out wine seminar sponsored by Southern Wine & Spirits.
2. It Was Totally A Food Festival // Between me, you and your laptop’s firewalls, the evening’s food presence stole the show. Guests that headed down the wine trail discovered new foodie stops along every step of the way. Local favorites, such as Tapa Toro, Taverna Opa, The Swine Family, Black Rooster Taqueria and 4 Rivers Smokehouse helped balance palates with dishes ranging from vegetarian paella to smoked pork bang bang tacos.
Admittedly, Puff ‘n Stuff Catering’s avocado bar was pretty impressive. Imagine halved and seared hass avocados served with DIY toppings, such as crab, grilled corn, orange tomatoes, scallions, chickpeas, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Can we all agree that every event should have this?
3. Three Words: Chef Emily Ellyn // This Retro Rad Diva, who is best known for her appearances on Food Network and culinary contributions throughout Central Florida, invited guests to put on their lab coats and cook up some fun! Using just the right formula, she took guests down a twisted memory lane with a Peanut Butter & Jelly Snow Cone cooking demonstration.
Photo Credit: Orlando Science Center
4. Sip with Benefits // Proceeds raised by The Science of Wine help provide operating support for educational programs and opportunities for science learners of all ages to experience the fun and discovery of Orlando Science Center, a 501(c)(3) organization.
Photo Credit: Orlando Science Center
5. The Perfect Blend // Around every corner, we found Orlandoans from different industries and walks of life to befriend. The thing to remember is that you’ve already got something in common: a love for wine!
Next year, bring your cards and fully-charged phone because you’ll definitely see something Snapchat worthy, and you won’t want to miss it.
Snack on,
Major
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