Yes, it’s the Wine & Food Festival, but kicking back on the pier with a cold beer in the Stella Artois lounge sure makes buying that VIP ticket worthwhile. Something to remember for next year!
A great summer tradition returned to the National Harbor Waterfront on the Potomac last weekend — the 7th annual National Harbor Wine & 
Food Festival — taking place all day Saturday and Sunday in tents filled with temptations… of the bites and beverages sort.
More than just a tasting, the Festival brought together award winning celebrity chefs, artisanal craftsmen, culinary pioneers, smooth jazz, family fun, and, of course, wine from around the world. This year’s festival included over 150 International wines, spirits and beers featured along with local and regional favorites. Guests sampled all of the varieties (and could purchase them by the glass and the bottle on-site at steep event discount).
While unlimited drink tastings were the highlight for most, the growing festival also boasted some serious culinary chops — featuring a Cooking Stage that brought in some award winning super star chef talent. Special appearances on the Cooking Stage included Chef Mike Isabella of Graffiato, Chef Rahman “Rock” Harper winner of Fox Reality television series Hell’s Kitchen, Chef Bryan Voltaggio of Volt/Range Restaurant, Chef Scott Drewno of The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Chef Mike Schlow and Chef Victor Albisu of Del Campo and Taco Bambo.
More fun at the largest award winning wine festival of its kind in the Metro DC market was found at the 
Cinco De Mayo Pavilion, a special craft beer tasting Bier Garten experience, whiskey and bourbon tasting experiences, and three stages of live music and smooth jazz.
Stay tuned for another change to wine down at Great Tastes of Tysons coming May 31st and June 1st.
