Florida ranks third for sales and consumption of Napa Valley wines, trailing only New York and California. Therefore, a delegation of vintners, industry experts and leading wineries representing Napa Valley’s world famous wine industry will be appearing throughout Florida, including the Tampa Bay area, in early February as part of a statewide tour promoting that region’s signature wines.

Look for public wine tasting events and private receptions, seminars and tasting events around the state. The Taste Napa Valley: Florida statewide tour is designed to promote awareness and appreciation of wines from Napa to Florida residents, wine distributors and restaurants featuring Napa wines. 

The statewide tour kicks off with public fundraising events, invitation-only wine tastings and promotional programs in Miami, Coral Gables and Fort Lauderdale. Among the event venues are the CHANEL Fine Jewelry Boutique located in Bal Harbour Shops at Bal Harbour and a Lexus Owners Private Wine Tasting at the Turnberry Isle Miami Resort & Club in Aventura, FL.

The NVV’s Central Florida and Tampa Bay itineraries include the following events: 

Nightlife Napa Valley Tampa “Wine is For Lovers” event at International Plaza, Bay Street Courtyard.  The 9 – 11 p.m. wine tasting features nearly 50 Napa Valley wineries and hors d’oeuvres provided by leading Tampa Bay restaurants with a nightclub atmosphere that includes a D.J.  Proceeds benefit the Abilities Foundation.  Visit www.abilitiesfoundation.com for tickets or more information. Tickets are $35 in advance; $45 at door. 

“Wine Lovers in Paradise” showcases vintners and wines from Napa Valley wineries, at the Fazal Fazlin waterfront estate (900 Park St. North, St. Petersburg). For tickets or information, visit www.abilitiesfoundation.com.  Tickets are $150 per person. Tampa Bay’s finest restaurants add the perfect culinary complement to this extraordinary evening. Not enough wine for you? Place your bids at the silent auction so you don’t go home empty handed.

Additional information about the schedule of Florida events is available from NVV at www.napavintners.com.