February brings with it many great, global food and wine events and festivals. From the winter warmth of the Southern Hemisphere to the winter wonderlands of the Northern Hemisphere, our monthly guide has enough to keep you entertained.
What’s happening in the vineyard? While in the Southern Hemisphere, at the end of this month harvesting takes place, in the Northern Hemisphere weeping begins. When it starts to warm up, the vine wakes up and its roots collect water. The sap goes through the pruned canes and usually this process takes just a few days, so if you want to watch it make sure you look for it this period. But going back to the Southern Hemisphere where they have a lot of work to do, just about now, in some places veraison takes places, which is the process of changing grapes’ colour. After this, the ripening becomes more intense and great attention has to be directed to the birds, which start to come down to the vineyards and can create great damage. The dates of picking grapes differ a lot depending on grapes’ variety and the weather and can continue until April.
London is one of the best cities to spend Valentine’s Day with one of the broadest arrays of fine dining and romantic restaurants across the city. However, just a short car or train ride away are the beautiful, and picturesque wineries in the English countryside. We reccomend a tour and tasting with lunch. Choose from the best English winery tours here.
Adelaide Cellar Door Wine Festival, February 26-28th
Adelaide Hills is arguably one of Australia’s most famous wine regions. Come and meet great winemakers and try South Australia’s delightful wines and food during the Cellar Door Wine Festival. Don’t miss the chance to find out about this amazing wine regions and discover all of its secrets from the winemakers who will be present.
Vancouver International Wine Festival 2015 – February 20th – February 28th
The Vancouver International Wine Festival is Canada’s premier food & wine event and offers wine lovers the chance to learn about and experience Canada’s wine, and enjoy unforgettable entertainment. There are wine tastings and pairings, gourmet dinners, educational seminars and culinary competitions, plus the rare opportunity to meet owners, winemakers and senior representatives from wineries around the globe.
Choco & Wine Festival – February 20th
Chocolate lovers won’t find a sweeter chocolate than the chocolate from Istria, so enjoy pairing it with delicious Croatian wines at the Choco & Wine Festival. But that’s not all; you will be able to enjoy a menu based on the delicacies of the region such as cheese, honey, olive oil and truffles.
Franschhoek Summer Wines – February 6th
At this time of year, South Africa and the Cape Winelands offer the perfect winter sun retreat. Enjoy the warmth with delicious fresh food and aromatic wine. Elegant Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards invite both connoisseurs and casual drinkers to savour the best wines and flavours of the capital. Relax, unwind and enjoy the live music, fun and stunning scenery.
Food Network’s South Beach Food and Wine Festival – February 24th – 28th
Special wine and culinary experience created to satisfy the palate of every lover of wine and food! From the famous BubbleQ and the Burger Bash to the Grand Tasting Village Fun and Fit with the family. No doubts, the Festival has something for everyone!
New York City Winter Wine Fest – February 6th
Another year has come and it’s time for the New York City Winter Wine Fest. There will be over 250 wines tasting, delightful food and great live music. Take this opportunity to enhance your wine tasting knowledge with this great American event!
The Marlborough Wine and Food Festival – February 13th
During the longest wine festival in New Zealand guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a unique selection of world-class wines, taste delicious local cuisine and experience outstanding fun. All of this and much more is taking place in in the heart of one of the oldest and most picturesque vineyards of Marlborough – Brancott Vineyard. This is a special treat for Valentine’s Day.
If you would like any help booking a wine tour, get in touch with us!