Sell Out at the WestJet Wine Tastings, Gourmet & Grapes Gala & Strong Wine Sales Highlight the Opening Weekend
The 29th Okanagan Fall Wine Festival presented by Valley First Credit Union is underway with a promising start that demonstrates that wine tourism continues to hold its own in the current challenging economy.
Gary Reynolds, President of the Okanagan Wine Festivals www.thewinefestivals.com and owner, Lake Breeze Vineyards in Naramata is surprised at the strong demand for tickets. “We know that our main wine events offer great value for the experience we offer but we did not expect the expansion of our WestJet Wine Tastings would sell out. But it is nice to be proven wrong. Both nights of the WestJet Wine Tastings sold out and what impressed us the most was the growth in a younger market segment that is obviously attracted to our events. It’s great to see that our approach to offer wine tastings that are naturally fun is paying off.”
Sara Foster with WestJet believes the targeting of a younger market is great for the industry. “Our Fun and Festival team always look for the best events that fit with or airline’s culture and these wine tastings are perfect. They are fun, informal, well run and a tremendously fun time for everyone.”
The opening 4 days finished off with a sold out audience attending the Gourmet and Grapes Gala sponsored by Terasen Gas and held at Kelowna’s hottest restaurant – Cabana Bar and Grill. Ned Bell from Cabana and Wayne Martin from Fraiche in Vancouver went head to head in an Iron Chef Competition while patrons dined on amazing tapas foods from 6 different Okanagan restaurants and 6 great wineries from the Okanagan.
The Okanagan Fall Wine Festival continues throughout Okanagan Wine Country with over 150 events during the period October 1-10. Major upcoming events include the Valley First Grand Finale Wine Tastings held Friday October 9 and Saturday October 10 at the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre. Tickets are still available and may be purchased online through www.ticketmaster.ca.
For more information on the Okanagan Fall Wine Festival presented by Valley First Credit Union, go to www.thewinefestivals.com or www.owfs.mobi on your handheld. Or pick up a free 60 page guide at your local winery, BC Liquor Store, VQA wine store or British Columbia
