Denver Food + Wine Festival: Your Ultimate Guide to Culinary Delights & Grand Tasting Ticket Giveaway!

The most anticipated week for food and wine aficionados is swiftly approaching Denver this September – it’s time once again for the spectacular Denver Food + Wine Festival! Get ready for an unparalleled culinary journey, and if you read on, you’ll even discover a chance to win tickets to the coveted Grand Tasting!

Disclosure: This post is proudly sponsored by the Denver Food + Wine Festival. As always, all opinions expressed here are genuinely my own. Thank you for supporting the partners that make it possible to share wonderful content on Cake ‘n Knife!

As the leaves begin to hint at a change and the crispness of early autumn graces the air, Denver prepares for its most celebrated week of gastronomy. No, I’m not hinting at pumpkin spice lattes or football tailgates just yet. My focus, and indeed the city’s, turns to the Denver Food + Wine Festival!

For those deeply ingrained in Denver’s thriving culinary scene, this particular week is undoubtedly one of the year’s undisputed highlights. The Denver Food + Wine Festival, scheduled this year from September 5th through the 10th, promises yet another series of sensational foodie events. If you consider yourself a true epicurean in Denver, this festival brings a unique joy that genuinely feels like Christmas arriving every single day.

Why the Denver Food + Wine Festival is a Must-Attend

Every year, I eagerly anticipate Labor Day weekend, not merely for the extra day off, but because it heralds the imminent commencement of the Denver Food + Wine festivities. It’s a period where the city’s vibrant culinary spirit shines brightest, bringing together renowned chefs, expert sommeliers, and passionate food lovers for a week of unparalleled indulgence and discovery.

The festival isn’t just a series of events; it’s a celebration of Denver’s dynamic and ever-evolving food and beverage landscape. It offers a unique opportunity to sample exquisite dishes, taste an incredible array of wines and spirits, and connect with the talent that drives our local gastronomic community. Beyond the pure enjoyment, it’s also an educational experience, allowing attendees to explore new flavors, learn about different culinary techniques, and deepen their appreciation for the craft.

This is the one week where I wholeheartedly embrace the opportunity to indulge in as much exquisite food, fine wine, and premium spirits as my heart desires, completely free of any guilt. After all, when it comes to a food festival of this caliber, there’s simply no room for guilt!

Highlight Events: The ShakeDown and The Grand Tasting

Among the week-long calendar of tempting events, two stand out as personal favorites that I approach with extreme enthusiasm: The ShakeDown and The Grand Tasting. These events encapsulate the very essence of what makes the Denver Food + Wine Festival truly special.

The ShakeDown: A Battle of Bites & Cocktails

Last year marked my first experience at The ShakeDown, and it unequivocally exceeded all expectations. This vibrant event serves as Denver’s ultimate competition for “total cocktail and best bite domination.” Imagine an evening filled with lively music, innovative mixology, and a carefully curated selection of delectable bites presented by some of the city’s most talented chefs. It’s truly one of those early fall Denver evenings that sets a high bar for enjoyment and culinary creativity, making it incredibly tough to top.

The atmosphere at The ShakeDown is electrifying, a true testament to the inventive spirit of Denver’s culinary and cocktail professionals. Bartenders push the boundaries of mixology, crafting unique concoctions that tantalize the palate, while chefs present small, exquisite dishes designed to perfectly complement the beverages. It’s an intimate yet high-energy event, perfect for those who appreciate the art of pairing and the thrill of discovery.

I still fondly recall one particular standout from a previous ShakeDown: the flaming whiskey glazed doughnut from Habit Doughnut Dispensary. That piping hot, melt-in-your-mouth creation is truly unforgettable, and just thinking about it now makes my mouth water in anticipation. Here’s hoping they make a triumphant return this year to delight us with more of their imaginative treats!

The Grand Tasting: A Culinary Extravaganza Like No Other

Without a doubt, one of my absolute favorite events of the entire festival week is The Grand Tasting. It’s not difficult to grasp why this event is so magical when you consider its sheer scale: it brings together over 700 different wines, spirits, and food offerings from approximately 40 of Denver’s most esteemed restaurants, all ready for you to explore and savor. Let me re-emphasize that incredible number: over 700 distinct wines, spirits, and culinary bites!

Is your jaw on the floor yet? I’ll wait a moment for you to pick it up. 😉

The Grand Tasting is, quite honestly, a golden opportunity. It’s the perfect chance to check in with my favorite Denver restaurants, many of whom debut new dishes or showcase signature creations. Beyond that, it’s an incredible platform to learn about new wines and spirits, discovering labels and distilleries I might not have encountered otherwise. Best of all, it allows me to stumble upon exciting new brands and hidden gems to share with all you wonderful readers and fellow food enthusiasts!

Consider the exquisite food art that River & Woods masterfully presented last year, a true feast for both the eyes and the palate. Or, for those with a sweet tooth, another delightful appearance by Habit Doughnut Dispensary, proving that their creativity extends beyond just one event.

The only true challenge of the Grand Tasting is the bittersweet realization that it’s simply impossible to sample every single wine available in just one afternoon. With such an overwhelming selection, choices must be made, though every choice is bound to be a delightful one.

Rest assured, I make it a point to conquer all the spirits and, of course, every enticing food bite without any hesitation or problem!

Maximizing Your Festival Experience

To truly make the most of the Denver Food + Wine Festival, especially the Grand Tasting, a little strategy goes a long way. Here are a few tips for attendees:

• Plan Ahead: Review the list of participating restaurants, wineries, and distilleries beforehand. Prioritize a few “must-try” spots to ensure you don’t miss out on your top choices.
• Pace Yourself: With over 700 offerings, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take small sips and bites, and remember that it’s about quality over quantity.
• Stay Hydrated: Water stations are your best friend. Alternate between sips of wine/spirits and water to stay refreshed and enjoy the experience longer.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet, exploring the vast venue. Comfort is key!
• Embrace Discovery: While it’s good to have a plan, also leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best discoveries are made when you venture off the beaten path.
• Don’t Miss the Patron! For those who appreciate fine tequila, make sure to seek out the Patron station. It’s often where the party truly comes alive in the final hour of the festival – a definite #protip!

Win Tickets to The Grand Tasting! Your Chance Awaits!

And now for the exciting news you’ve been waiting for! I am incredibly fortunate and thrilled to be giving away TWO Grand Tasting tickets to a couple of lucky readers for the highly anticipated event on September 9th! This is your golden opportunity to experience the pinnacle of the Denver Food + Wine Festival without the ticket price.

So, all you fantastic Denver locals (or anyone planning a trip to Denver in a couple of weeks), it’s time to get your fingers ready and participate! To enter, simply follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter widget below. Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to immerse yourself in a world of culinary excellence and fine beverages.

Be sure to enter ASAP – the sooner you enter, the better your chances! And mark your calendars now for the entire festival, running from September 5th through the 10th. Make a special note for The ShakeDown on September 7th, too. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a moment of the festivities!

There will be an abundance of exquisite food, a splendid selection of booze, and an absolutely ridiculous amount of fun to be had. This is more than just a festival; it’s an experience that celebrates taste, community, and the vibrant spirit of Denver’s culinary scene. Good luck, and get ready for an unforgettable week!

a Rafflecopter giveaway