In 2005, it was the "Vineyard of Oz"; in '06, "The Grape Gatsby"; in '07, the "West Was Wine." Tampa Theatre continues the tradition of naming and themeing its boutique wine tasting fundraisers after film classics with this Saturday's "Vino Las Vegas." Guests who attend the seventh annual event are encouraged to come dressed in their glitzy Vegas best or in Viva Las Vegas-inspired costumes for Elvis and Ann-Margaret look-alike contests. The food and wine tastings are divided into three main components: a Meeker Vineyards wine seminar with food and wine pairings by Chef Marty Blitz of Mise en Place and Michael Roberts of Vintage Wine Cellars; a VIP "Premium Tasting"; and the main event "Grand Tasting." Several classy local restaurants offer samples of their specialties, including The Capital Grille, SideBern's and Chez Bryce, and Italy's Castello Banfi, Chile's Concha y Toro and Jaboulet of France are among the 20 featured wineries. Sat., Sept. 20: 5-6:30 p.m. seminar ($150 advance only, includes admission to both evening events), 7-8 p.m. Premium Tasting ($85 in advance/$95 day of, includes admission to the grand tasting), and 8-10 p.m. Grand Tasting ($50 in advance/$60 day of), Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin St., Tampa, 813-274-8981.
This article appears in Sep 17-23, 2008.