LAKEPORT >> An earlier start in this year’s Lake County Home Wine and Beer Makers Festival means earlier registration for the event, which is scheduled to take place Saturday, June 18 at Lakeport’s Library Park. The Winfest — its abbreviated name — annually attracts dozens of amateur wine and beer makers who gather in the park to pour tastes for attendees.
This year’s Festival — now in its 15th year — is the major fundraiser for the Lake County Symphony with proceeds going to underwrite the Orchestra and LCSA Youth Orchestra along with the other music-support activities it sponsors. It also, for the first time, will feature more than two dozen vintage collectible cars from the Lakeport Camp ‘n Shine Chapter of the Norcal Air-cooled Group Car Club.
Home wine makers wanting to show off their efforts should call (707) 569-6880 or email matmoor1791@hotmail.com for an application. There is no fee for participation although if they wish their wines to be professionally judged there is a modest charge of $7 per bottle.
Wines can be red, white, aperitifs or desserts, or blends. Home brewers should call (707) 279-1280 or email jshoe@mac.com. There will be no individual judging of beers and ales, but all are eligible for ribbons in the popular Peoples’ Choice awards, as are the amateur wine makers, who may also enter their wines for judging in a wide range of classifications.
Another major attraction is the participation of many of Lake County’s leading commercial wineries and breweries who, while not eligible for awards, pour tastes of their premium beverages to help support their excellent home county symphony orchestra.
Many arts, crafts and food vendors also display and sell their wares and those wanting an application may also contact matmoor1741@hotmail.com or call (707) 569-6880. LCSA members also offer a major silent auction and its popular “Barrel of Wine” raffle, with prizes donated by generous local merchants.
Since the entire event revolves around music there will be a variety of musical performances taking place during the afternoon, headed by the popular David Neft Duo.
The Camp ‘n Shine cars will be on display from eight am until closing, while wine and beer tastings are from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. There is no fee to inspect the cars or visit vendor displays, and families and leashed pets are welcome, although adults must purchase entry tickets to taste the beverages. These are $25 at the gate, or $20 advance purchase to include a commemorative wine glass.
Tickets can be purchased at the Lakeport Chamber of Commerce, Watershed Books and Don Angel Winery, all in Lakeport, or at Langtry Winery on Butt’s Canyon Road south of Middletown, and in the Kelseyville area at the following wineries: Laujor, Rosa d’Oro, Smiling Dogs, Fore Family, Chacewater and at Steele’s tasting room in Finley.
