Philo, Calif., May 15, 2023 – The 24th Annual Anderson Valley PinotFest on the 40th Anniversary of the recognition of the region’s AVA status has sold out all events but, for the first time, will keep tickets to the signature Grand Tasting open up until the day of the event and at the door.
The Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Festival will celebrate the region’s signature grape on May 19-21, 2023, throughout Anderson Valley, culminating with the Grand Tasting hosted on Saturday, May 20th, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, at Scharffenberger Cellars in Philo.
As the Festival becomes more popular, tickets to the evening BBQ, Technical Conference and VIP Bubble Lounge sell out within weeks. This is an opportunity to experience the wine and food-laden Grand Tasting and prepare for all of the events of next year’s 2024 PinotFest. Pinot and sparkling wines from across the Valley will be paired with cuisine from local Anderson Valley and Mendocino Coast restaurants.
Author Rex Pickett, who put Pinot Noir in the American consciousness with his book and film “Sideways,” will be telling jokes and signing books at the Grand Tasting and around all weekend to share a laugh when you see him.
The Sunday Open Houses at wineries throughout the Anderson Valley conclude PinotFest weekend on Sunday, May 21, 2023. Wineries bring out special wines and culinary pairings throughout the day. Make reservations to secure your place at any of the participating wineries, including the three below:
Baxter Winery will offer a rare opportunity for second generation winemaker Phil Baxter to present his wines paired with a culinary bite. Baxter will be on hand to chat and answer questions while you enjoy a seated flight of their 95 & 96 Point Pinot Noirs together. Reservations required:
Lula Cellars offers gorgeous vineyard views in the Deep End. Taste through a great selection of award-winning Pinot Noirs (including some of their newest releases!), and enjoy delicious homemade bites during one of the liveliest weekends in Mendocino County.
Seawolf Wines’ stunning views are considered some of the best in the Valley. Join organic winegrowers Emma and Jesse of SEAWOLF Wines on the ridgelines of the Anderson Valley for the 2023 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Weekend. They will be pouring their first 2022 Lost Coast Pinot Noir paired with Hippie Dust Popcorn for Sunday Open House.
All Open Houses & Grand Tasting tickets can be found on the bottom of the Pinot Fest Event Schedule Page.
In support of the Anderson Valley community, the proceeds of the popular Pinot Fest auction will go directly toward a planned community center centered around a skate park and featuring Boonville’s first public restroom. Bid high and often or get a bonus of two tickets to the 2024 PinotFest if you “Buy Now” and ensure you get the auction lot you want. Go to AV Pinot Month Online Auction for unique experiences, coastal stays, gourmet meals and private wine tastings.
To buy tickets, go to the Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association website at www.avwines.com/pinot-noir-
About the Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association
The Anderson Valley Winegrowers Association (AVWA) was founded in 1983 – the same year as the appellation. Made up of 25 vineyard, 66 winery and 63 associate members, the nonprofit organization operates with the goal of supporting the region’s premier grape growers and wineries, as well as promoting the region’s distinguished wines. In addition to acting as a resource for its members, the association aims to better its community by donating funds every year to local nonprofit organizations.
