Jungle Jim’s International Market is set to unite wine enthusiasts for the upcoming 15th-annual International Wine Festival next month.

“This year’s wine festival promises to be extraordinary. We’re thrilled to showcase our largest selection yet, featuring over 400 wines,” stated T.J. Askren, operations manager of the beer and wine department at Jungle Jim’s International Market.

At this signature sampling event, attendees will have the chance to taste more than 400 wines, savor gourmet bites, engage with wine specialists, and enjoy live performances.

Two types of tickets are available: a Grand Tasting ticket that includes standard tastings at 73 different tables, and an upgraded Connoisseur ticket offering exclusive perks in a private tasting area with access to premium wines. This ticket also features a gourmet dinner by-the-bite from The Oscar Event Center’s Chef Michael Inferrera and his team. Connoisseur ticket holders can enter the festival early at 6:30 p.m. Both ticket options include a commemorative tasting glass and a buyer’s guide.

“This year promises to be quite remarkable for the wine festival. A significant transition is underway in the beer and wine team at Jungle Jim’s. Ed Vinson, our beer and wine department operations manager who dedicated 25 years to us and was the mastermind behind the wine festival, retired last month. I have now taken over his responsibilities and have certainly made my mark on this wine festival,” Askren mentioned. “We eagerly anticipate showcasing what we can accomplish.”

The selection of featured wines includes an array of whites, reds, champagnes, and sweet wines sourced from both local and international wineries. The 2023 event showcased over 65 represented wineries.

Eastside connoisseurs and Grand Tasters can benefit from transportation departing from Jungle Jim’s Eastgate location, with a complimentary Eastgate Bus ticket add-on available for both ticket tiers. Festival attendees are encouraged to opt for this option during ticket purchase.

During the festival, Grand Tasting and Connoisseur guests have the choice of complimentary shuttles operating between The Oscar Event Center and The Oscar Station, or they can experience the famous Jungle Jim’s Monorail, weather permitting.

When guests buy a ticket for the 2024 International Wine Festival, they will automatically enroll in Jungle Jim’s Buyer’s Club, with the card available for collection at the festival. This benefit allows attendees to order wines directly from Jungle Jim’s without needing to leave the event. The wines will be boxed and prepped for pickup and payment at a designated Jungle Jim’s location on November 15.

HOW TO GO

What: Jungle Jim’s International Wine Festival

When: 7-10 p.m., November 9. Connoisseur ticket holders can enter at 6:30 p.m.

Where: The Oscar Event Center at Jungle Jim’s International Market, 5440 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield and The Oscar Station.

Admission: $65 plus tax for a Grand Tasting ticket, or $150 plus tax for a Connoisseur ticket. $35 plus tax for Grand Tasting Non-Drinker, or $110 plus tax for Connoisseur Non-Drinker. Ticket prices will increase after October 31. Starting on November 1, a Connoisseur ticket will rise to $160 and a Grand Tasting ticket will go up to $70.

More info: Junglejims.com

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