This Sunday, March 9, 2012, all members of Family Winemakers of California will be at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, for Southern California’s largest tasting of California wines. Featuring over 800 different wines from 180 different small family-owned wineries across California, all wine enthusiasts are encouraged to come celebrate “Tasting 2012” this Sunday.

“‘Tasting 2012’ is a once-a-year opportunity in the San Diego area to taste such a broad array of wines. Our guests will have the difficult task of choosing from over 800 wines, which will include thirty or more grape varietals coming from most of the state’s appellations,” added Paul Kronenberg, President of the Family Winemakers of California. “A tough job, but we know that San Diego’s wine lovers are up to it. The Family Winemakers’ motto is ‘Taste California’, and this is definitely the place to do just that. Because of the importance of the San Diego market, many of the wineries will have owners and winemakers pouring and describing the special features of their wines.”

In 1991 Family Winemakers of California was established, realizing there was a need for public policy involvement for the small wine producers of California. The association has definitely made a strong presence in the wine industry. With over 600 active California winery memberships and the power and passion to lobby for wine producer rights, Family Winemakers of California is still capturing the hearts of wine enthusiasts.

With their continued growing success this year The Family Winemakers of California were extremely proud and grateful to receive support from the following sponsors: California Travel Association, Cooperages 1912 Napa, DDC Shipping, Debbie Douglas Designs, Fast Forward Events, GSO (Golden State Overnight), Just My Ticket, Kerrygold Cheeses & Butters, Labeltronix, Private Spring Water, Sadie Rose Baking Co., Touring & Tasting Magazine, Vineyard & Winery Magazine, and VinVillage.com.

“We’re so thankful to our sponsors for supporting our Southern California tour and helping to make the tastings a continued success,” Kronenberg.

Come out this weekend and get to know members of the trade and those who share your passion for wine. Mingle with people from wineries all across California. The “Tasting 2012” event is a great opportunity to not only discover new wine favorites, but to meet the family behind the bottle.

“Tasting 2012” Event Details

Time:
Sunday, March 11, 2012 (1:00 pm to 6:00 pm). Trade only tasting from 1:00-3:00pm, and an additional tasting open to both the public and trade from 3:00-6:00pm.

Location:
Exhibit Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014

Cost:
$55 in advance (until 8pm, Saturday, March 10, so hurry!)
$65 at the door based on availability
Must be 21 and older to attend

For more information, a list of participating wineries and advance ticket sales, visit: www.familywinemakers.org