The Boston Wine & Food Festival is back for its 36th year, hosted at the elegant Boston Harbor Hotel at 70 Rowes Wharf. The festival spans several months, featuring a variety of wine-related events, including tastings, master classes, and curated wine dinners.
However, due to renovations in the hotel’s special function rooms, this year’s festival offers a more intimate experience with 20 carefully curated events. Despite the changes, festival director Nick Daddona assures attendees that all events will take place in the scenic Wharf Room, offering stunning views of Boston Harbor.
Hollywood & Vine: A New Cinematic Dining Experience
A fresh addition to the festival this year is Hollywood & Vine, a unique dinner experience that pairs fine wine and cuisine with iconic films. This four-course meal is inspired by cinematic masterpieces, featuring dishes and wine selections that pay homage to movies such as “Ratatouille,” “Sideways,” “Silence of the Lambs,” and the refined world of James Bond.
Attendees can indulge in this artistic blend of film and gastronomy for $305. This event reflects the festival’s commitment to creating innovative experiences that blend culture with culinary excellence.
For those looking for a romantic evening, the festival offers two exclusive Valentine’s Day-themed dinners. On February 14, the Valentine’s on the French Riviera Dinner transports guests to the South of France with a menu and wine selection inspired by the region, available for $275.
The following evening, on February 15, the Romeo & Juliet Amarone Dinner takes attendees on a journey through Verona, Italy, showcasing Amarone wines with carefully paired courses for $305. These events promise an enchanting experience for couples and wine enthusiasts alike.
Luxury Experiences and Budget-Friendly Options
The most extravagant event of the festival is the Presidential Burgundy Experience on March 21, a one-night-only event for up to eight guests. This exclusive Grand Cru Burgundy tasting is led by a master sommelier and features wines from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, accompanied by gourmet cuisine from executive chef David Daniels.
Held in the Presidential Suite at the Boston Harbor Hotel, the experience includes an open bar, luxury accommodations, and a 1,000-square-foot open-air terrace—all for a premium price of $37,500. On the more affordable side, the Champagne Campaign Master Class on February 15 offers an exploration of sparkling wines for $125.
The festival continues with several wine-focused master classes and gala events, including the Willamette Wine Trail Gala on February 20 for $160 and the Springtime Rosé Master Class on March 22 for $95. The festival concludes on March 27 with the Opus One Reserve Dinner, a VIP experience featuring a four-course meal and an optional pre-dinner seminar, celebrating the renowned collaboration between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi.
Tickets range from $745 to $895. Additionally, attendees can explore wines from Frog’s Leap Winery, Côte d’Or, Rhone Valley, and more. Guests can also enjoy an exclusive hotel room rate starting at $305, making this a memorable experience for wine lovers at any level.