Boston Wine Expo through Jan. 22
[Aram Boghosian for The Boston Globe]
The Boston Wine Expo has given itself a bit of a makeover this year, paring down the event to create a more intimate foodie experience while also expanding its selection of wines from North America. As in past years, the Grand Tastings weekend (Jan. 21-22) will feature nearly 1,000 wines hailing from more than 200 wineries around the world. In addition to the old swish, spit, and sip routine, there will also be bites from local restaurants like Petit Robert Bistro, Taranta, Strega Waterfront, Lucca, and more.
For those looking for a quieter, more intimate experience, there is also the Grand Cru Wine Lodge, a separate loungey area with couches, live music, and a selection of fine wines. Tickets to the lodge are $175 and also include admission into the main hall.
"It gives people an opportunity to experience it on a different level," says Boston Wine Expo show director Ed Hurley.
Also new this year is a series of "Vintner Dinners" throughout the city, where wineries participating in the expo have paired up with 10 local eateries -- like Upstairs on the Square (tonight), Smith & Wollensky, and Aura Restaurant -- to create special menus for the occasion. The prix fixe menus range in cost form $60 - $125 per person (depending on the restaurant) and include wine pairings. (See full list of Vintner Dinners here.)
Boston Wine Expo. Jan. 21-22. 21+ Tickets to the grand tasting weekend are $95 for Saturday and $85 for Sunday. $145 for both days. $175 for Grand Cru Wine Lodge. Seaport World Trade Center and Seaport Hotel. 877-946-3976. www.wine-expos.com
Contributors
Nicole Cammorata is a Mass. native who is keen on antique hunting, musical theater, and the great outdoors.
Milva DiDomizio is a New England native who's fond of cooking, singing, and Boston's arts and culture scene.
Emily Sweeney is a Boston native who goes out all over, from Irish pubs in Southie to the roller rink in Dorchester.
