Tickets Available 11.29.2024
Tickets Available 11.29.2024
Ticket Options
About the Festival
2024 Highlight Reel
Celebrity Guests
Songwriters
Culinary Village
FAQs
April 24-27, 2025
This unforgettable event blends a curated selection of offerings into an unmatched world-class experience. Come be a part of the Southeast’s stand out wine and food festival, where you’ll find the perfect pairing of sunshine, wine, food, industry celebs, and beautiful beaches.
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We curated the perfect blend of 600+ world-class wines, industry experts, culinary icons, Nashville singer/songwriters, educational seminars and a sprinkle of fun and funky activations, so there’s something for everyone at SoWalWine.
So fresh. So fun. So flavorful. So friendly. Yeah, we’ll toast to that!
Choose from our individual events or go for the full-bodied, VIP experience and enjoy all three days of SoWalWine.
“In April, the South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival pours out the fun during a four-day extravaganza with winemakers, distillers, and mixologists alongside bites by South Walton’s best chefs.”
So knowledgeable. So notable. So memorable. So remarkable. That’s SoWalWine’s Celebrity Guest List!
Born and raised on Reunion Island, Anne's passion for wine began in Burgundy, where her family owned a vineyard. She studied biology, physics, and mathematics before pursuing a master's degree in viticulture and oenology in Bordeaux. After internships with renowned Pinot Noir producers, she moved to the United States and joined Soléna Estate. In 2020, she became Director of Winemaking at NW Wine Company, Oregon's largest landholder under vine. Anne oversees all wine production, from vineyard to bottle, and balances her demanding role with motherhood and a love for baking.
Ben Casteel, the son of Bethel Heights Vineyard founders, initially pursued an English degree. However, a transformative experience working a Burgundy harvest in 1999 ignited his passion for winemaking. After gaining experience at Rex Hill, Ben joined Bethel Heights in 2005. Inspired by his family's legacy, he strives to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of the vineyard. Ben believes in a hands-on approach, allowing the wines to express the true character of the vintage and the land.
Bethany fell in love with Pinot Noir in the Santa Ynez Valley while she was earning a BFA in painting in Los Angeles. Inspired by the craft and process of making wine, and having always wanted to live in the Northwest, she moved to Oregon in 2005. Bethany joined the family and team at Illahe Vineyards in 2009 after gaining experience with some of Oregon's top wineries. Her sales experience drove Illahe's success in transitioning from a winery with a small distribution radius to achieving recognition in 40 markets internationally. At harvest, you can find her in work boots doing lab work, punch downs, and fruit sorting and cooking for the entire crew. Bethany has a WSET Level 2 Award for Wine and Spirits.
A graduate of the US Naval Academy and former submarine officer, Bill Matthes found his true calling in the wine industry. Now a 30+ year veteran (of the wine industry), Bill brings a high degree of passion and knowledge tempered by discipline to the role of National Sales Manager for Lange Estate Winery & Vineyards in the Dundee Hills AVA within in the Willamette Valley.
Britta Gentle, Senior Director of Sales for the Americas at Domaine Serene, oversees the distribution of the winery's exceptional Oregon and Burgundy wines. With a background in hospitality and a passion for wine, she has spent over 20 years studying and exploring the world's major wine regions. Drawn to Domaine Serene's commitment to quality, she now works to share the unique character of their wines with wine enthusiasts worldwide. Living in the Willamette Valley, she deeply appreciates the terroir that shapes these exceptional wines.
Cameron Scott, a seasoned industry veteran and former chef, is the Eastern U.S. Regional Sales Manager for Cristom Vineyards. With over 20 years of experience in the wine industry, he has worked for prominent Willamette Valley producers, as well as major distributors like Kobrand and Republic National. Prior to his wine career, Cameron held executive roles in the culinary industry, including at Walt Disney World and his own restaurant. Based in South Florida, he is actively involved in his community and continues to pursue his passion for food and wine.
Charlotte's passion for wine began in her youth while working at her family's restaurant. She honed her skills through various roles in the food and beverage industry, including fine wine consulting and restaurant management. With over 15 years of experience, Charlotte joined Rombauer Vineyards as Mid-Atlantic Regional Sales Manager. She is fluent in French and Spanish and holds a WSET Level 3 Advanced Wine Certificate. Charlotte is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for Rombauer's wines with consumers and trade partners alike.
Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill is proud to have Chef Dakota Watson leading the culinary team this season! Chef Watson grew up in Ohio where he studied culinary arts with an emphasis on pastry at Ohio University. During his time at culinary school, Chef Watson had the opportunity to learn while abroad - studying with some of the finest chefs in Italy and Germany. Upon returning to the states Chef Watson moved to Florida to be closer to family where he began his career on 30a at locally acclaimed restaurants like Bud & Alleys in Seaside. Dakota joined the team at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa this winter taking over the culinary execution of our beachfront restaurant Barefoot’s.
As a 501(c)3, all proceeds from South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival support Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, benefiting children in need in Northwest Florida. By raising our glass, we’re raising hope for our community one sip at a time.
From fun and funky to bluegrass and everything in between, enjoy the savory sounds of Nashville singer/songwriters and local musicians as you stroll the festival.
Aaron Barker, a Texas native, began his musical journey at a young age, writing songs and performing in bands. His songwriting talent caught the attention of George Strait, leading to a string of hits like "Baby Blue" and "Love Without End, Amen." Barker also pursued a successful solo career, releasing several albums and touring extensively. Beyond his own music, he has written songs for numerous country artists, including Doug Supernaw, Lonestar, and Clay Walker. His contributions to the country music industry have earned him recognition and induction into prestigious halls of fame.
Bridgette Tatum is an accomplished singer/songwriter/producer/industry entrepreneur from Florence SC (Cackalacki) with more than 100 cuts to include #1’s under her boots! A Guitar banger with the vocal delivery of honey soaked tequila, she brings the songs and the stories to life with each line. Some call her an experience, some call her a friend to the craft, but each moment represents a piece of what’s in her soul that’ll have you walking away with a feeling of both. In her own words, “Make it honest, let it tell it’s truth, and you’ll be saying what the song needs to say. It’s always in the room.”
Casey Kearney is a fresh take on the country music scene. Her personal songs effortlessly convey both the sweetness of a Southern belle and the steel backbone of a strong country woman with a little touch of rock and grit. Her music ranges from slow heartfelt ballads to upbeat crowd favorites and playful melodies. Her sound is a great representation of vibrant women everywhere. Casey was born and raised in the Florida panhandle, where she still resides with her husband and her 3 children who are currently homeschooled and active in the local junior and high school rodeo circuit.
DJ PINKE has been dominating the Hollywood and Los Angeles club scene with her electrifying electro, house, and hip-hop mixes. Starting her musical journey at age 7 as a percussionist, she developed a keen sense of rhythm and placement. She skillfully blends classic funk, blues, and oldies with the latest hits to energize dance floors. Originally a hit at house parties in the Los Angeles Valley, PINKE rode the wave of the electronic music boom, merging hip-hop's gritty lyrics with the pulsating beats of electro and house. Her charisma and prowess quickly elevated her to a club favorite, enhancing her reputation as a top-tier DJ. Now, her talents are captivating larger audiences across California at various high-profile events and nightclubs.
The nostalgic sound of classic country music is back, and it's come in the form of The Reeves Brothers. Deeply rooted in the Natural state of Arkansas, Matt and Cole Reeves spent their younger years growing up in the small town of Pahrump, Nevada down Stagecoach Road, where they lived behind The Stagestop Bar, a good ole honky tonk where their father, Jack Reeves, headlined playing country music five nights a week. Needless to say, country music runs like blood in their veins, and playing it comes as naturally as breathing. As they build their team, the Arkansas duo is quickly establishing themselves as a fixture in the Nashville music scene. Get ready for their classic country, Honky-Tonk sound to revive your country soul and grace your radio speakers soon.
Scott Reeves is a multi-talented artist with a successful career in music and acting. As a songwriter, he penned the hit song "Made in America" for Toby Keith. As a singer, he formed the duo Blue County, which achieved several chart-topping hits. Reeves has also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in popular TV shows like General Hospital, The Young and the Restless, and Nashville. His versatility and dedication have made him a respected figure in both the music and entertainment industries.
Transcending expectations and demystifying the search for the perfect bottle, SoWalWine welcomes enthusiasts of all ages and levels—from casual sippers to the most discerning palates. Learn from the industry’s finest vintners, distillers, and experts during our educational tasting seminars on Saturday and Sunday.
2025 seminar schedule coming soon!
Enjoy interactive, on-site activations from select beverage retailers during festival weekend along Spirits Activations. Sample new recipes, learn how to craft the perfect cocktail from master mixologists, and snap some pics for the ‘Gram.
The Savor South Walton Culinary Village and Nosh Pavilions offer an extraordinary array of food, tastings, and pairings. Stroll and sample the best of South Walton while you mix and mingle with the chefs and culinary icons responsible for bringing these amazing dishes to life.
Have a question for us? Check out some of the most frequently asked questions.
The festival is located throughout Grand Boulevard’s Town Center, on multiple streets and green spaces. For the most accurate directions, enter 585 Grand Boulevard, Miramar Beach, Florida, into your GPS.
Grand Boulevard has parking throughout its 52 acres of retail stores, restaurants, parks and hotels. Parking will be at a premium so we recommend ride shares or carpooling. Arrive early for the best experience!
In order to enter any of the vendor tents, including culinary village, seminars or pouring tents, you must have a wristband. There is no reduced-price wristband but, remember, SoWalWine is a charitable event and all proceeds benefit Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation.
This is an adults-only event and we do not recommend bringing children. In order to enter any of the vendor tents, including culinary village, seminars or pouring tents, you must have a wristband. There is no reduced-price wristband.
Grand Boulevard’s Town Center is open to the public during the festival. That includes all of the retail shops and restaurants. Additionally, there will be live entertainment throughout the afternoon that anyone can enjoy!
Unfortunately, we do not have this capability.
Pets may be okay, but no pets are allowed in the Culinary Village for sanitary and safety purposes. If you have a certified therapy dog with papers, it will be allowed, however, be aware that leashes may create a safety hazard.
The seminars are first come, first serve and no standing room. There are 72 seats for each seminar where attendees are treated to wine and spirits typically not available during the festival. We recommend grabbing your seat early!
Tickets are only available online.
If tickets are still available, you may purchase them at online while at Grand Boulevard the day of the event. Remember, ticket prices increase April 1st.
Send us a note or give us a call and we’ll gladly answer any questions you may have. See you soon!
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