What To Look Forward To At Forks & Corks 2023

Are you ready to have the best epicurean experiences of the year?  We are talking about the 2023 Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival - of course.  If you love sinking your teeth into the best food the area has to offer and sipping the finest of wines you are not going to want to miss this year’s Forks & Corks.  These events we have lined up for you are sure to be a true treat for the taste buds.

Now Let’s Talk Details

2023 Forks & Corks Online Food and Wine Auction 

Opening for preview on Thursday, April 13, 2023, with real-time bidding starting on Monday, April 17 at 8:00 AM.  This auction will feature rare and exquisite wines, travel, and extraordinary dining and party experiences.  These special events are all made possible by the generosity of visiting wineries and the friends of Sarasota-Manatee Originals.

Bidding takes place exclusively online.  The funds raised by the Forks & Corks Online Auction are dedicated to promoting and sustaining over 60 local independent restaurants that are members of Sarasota-Manatee Originals.  Support these local restaurants by joining this online auction - ending on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at 3:00 PM.

Forks & Corks Wine Dinners And Events

Join us in raising a glass to the most legendary pairings from April 20 thru April 24, 2023.  The Suncoast’s most passionate culinary professionals and restaurateurs are showcasing their world-class wines and delectable dishes at Forks & Corks Wine Dinners and Events.  Stay tuned for more information on this event that highlights visiting winemakers and winery representatives from various member restaurants from Bradenton to Venice.

Forks & Corks University Master Classes

The Master Classes of Forks & Corks University are most definitely a highlight of the Festival each year!  You are not going to want to miss this experience led by a panel of world-renowned industry experts.  These engaging wine seminars are designed for those who want an educational experience accompanied by guided tastings. Be part of this rare opportunity to learn about wine with those that are instrumental in crafting them

Location: Master Classes for the 2023 Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival will be offered on Saturday, April 22, and will take place at Michael's on East Ballroom and Wine Cellar. 1283 S. Tamiami Tr, Sarasota, FL 34239.

Admission includes wine tastings as well as a pairing plate of light bites curated to enhance the varietals. Following the Master Classes, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm guests also receive complimentary admission to an Open House at Michael's Wine Cellar.

2023 Topics

South African Adventure | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Get ready to explore multiple regions and styles of red and white wines presented by winemakers and owners traveling from South Africa for the Festival! Meet the makers from Babylonstoren, Botanica Wines, Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Paul Cluver Wines, Safriel House, Stark Conde & Kara Tara.

Pinot Noir: World Tour | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Be part of the action in this comparative tasting of Pinot Noir - the on-trend light-bodied red. We kick off with bubbles from Champagne Jacquart. Our tour continues to Willamette Valley Vineyards (Willamette Valley, OR), California vintners Saintsbury (Carneros), Sean Minor Wines (Sonoma), and ZD Wines (Napa). Did you know Germany is making some world-class Pinot Noirs these days? You’ll hear from Pflüger at our final stop!

Life is a Cabernet | 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Have you had the opportunity to sip and compare a perfectly marvelous selection of the world’s most popular wine?  Now is your chance to do so!  Take a flavor journey from Bordeaux to Argentina to Alexander Valley & Napa, California. Catena Zapata, Alexander Valley Vineyards, Lerner Project, and Château Lagrangeare our hosts!

Italy from Top to Toe | 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm (Sold Out)

Benvenuti! Let’s discover the winemaking regions of Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio, Bolgheri, and Sicily. Banfi, Famiglia Cotarella, GAJA Brands, Regaleali-Tasca d'Almerita and Zenato.  We will be sharing their passions and traditions handed down for generations. 

*Due to international travel and inventory limitations, class panelists or wines presented may be subject to change.

We are beyond excited to share these amazing events with you!  It can only be a party if you are there!  Let’s experience the most memorable Forks & Corks moments of 2023 together, shall we?!?!  Cheers, Santé, Cin cin & ¡Salud!