Symphony Winefest seeks amateur brewers, winemakers
- Lake County News reports
- Posted On
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Members of the Lake County Symphony Association Wine Club are looking for home brewers and garage winemakers who wish to participate in the 2018 Home Wine and Beer Makers’ Festival.
The festival will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 16, in Lakeport’s Library Park.
The Wine Club sponsors the event as a major fundraiser for the Lake County Symphony and Youth Orchestra.
Each year, amateurs from throughout Northern California show up to pour tastes of their homemade beverages, hoping to win a coveted “People's Choice” award from event attendees.
There is no booth fee for the amateurs, who have until June 8 to sign up for this year’s festival.
Amateur winemakers also have the opportunity to enter their creations for separate professional judging and the chance to win one of the wide range of ribbons offered.
Many of Lake County’s leading commercial wineries will be on hand as well to pour samples, although they won’t be eligible for prizes which are restricted to amateurs. It is one way they show support for the symphony while giving locals a taste of the exceptional wines made from Lake County grapes.
Names of participating commercial wineries will be posted on the Web site and on Facebook (Lake County Home Wine and Beer Makers Festival) as soon as they are known.
Symphony Association President David Velasquez urges potential amateur participants to contact Winefest chairman Ed Bublitz at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 707-289-4163 for details or visit www.homewinemakersfestival.com.
“June 8 is the cutoff date for entries,” said Bublitz. “It will be here before you know it.”
Now in its 17th year, the Winefest (as it has been abbreviated) also attracts artists and artisans who offer their wares for sale, along with musicians who provide live entertainment.
This year, music will be provided by the ever-popular David Neft Duo, featuring David Neft on keyboard and Steve Dubois on drums.
Additionally, the Norcal Aircooled Group vintage car club will be on hand with more than four dozen car owners showing off their unique collectibles.
There is no charge to visit the food or craft vendors or to explore the antique automobiles.
Adults eligible for tasting wines and beers are charged $30 at the gate or $25 in advance.
For advance tickets, several outlets are listed on the webpage as well as a link to Eventbrite. Tickets are also available through the chamber of commerce. Each ticket includes a commemorative wine glass.
This year, the Winefest pairs with the Kelseyville Baconfest for a reduced price for those planning to attend both events over the weekend.
Discount lodging rates are also available from select establishments for that weekend and are listed on the Web site.