Key West Food and Wine Fest Blends Cuisine, Vintages and Florida Keys Flair
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Innovative cuisine, premium libations and intriguing events in subtropical island settings top the “menu” at the 2021 Key West Food & Wine Festival.
Happening now through Sunday, Jan. 31, the festival’s all-outdoor events showcase local chefs’ culinary flair, tempting vintages and distinctive Florida Keys atmosphere.
Attendees can whet their appetites for island-style excellence at waterfront tastings, winemaker/chef collaborations and food-related adventures such as an absinthe tasting inspired by literary legend Ernest Hemingway, a Key West resident during the 1930s.
According to event organizer Mark Certonio, all local coronavirus health protocols are to be followed during the festival, including social distancing and the wearing of facial coverings as mandated.
Planned highlights are to include the “Indulge” Grand Tasting set for 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at the Southernmost Beach Resort (enter at 508 South St.). Attractions are to include more than 50 wines for sampling, culinary creations on the beach and a subtropical sunset.
Friday’s standouts include “Meet Mote Marine,” a tour of Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration on Summerland Key. Attendees are to be transported to the pioneering marine science facility, located 24 miles from Key West, for a private tour, wine tasting and luncheon.
Saturday’s schedule is to feature a traditional shrimp boil featuring sweet Key West pink shrimp, a “Wind and Wine” sunset sailing excursion aboard a historic schooner, and a corkscrew exhibit and tasting paired with a discussion of wine-opening techniques.
Other events include the “Wine on the Roof Tour & Tasting,” the intriguingly named “Wet Fête en Blanc” gourmet dinner, a waterfront brunch and an open-air grilled cheese and beer party. The festival is to conclude Sunday with a six-course pairing of poké and sake at Key West’s new Hawaiian-vibe restaurant Poké in the Rear, 504 Angela St.
Festival schedule and ticketing: keywestfoodandwinefestival.com/
