Disclosure: This post is sponsored by the Denver Food + Wine Festival! As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the partners that support Cake ‘n Knife!
Denver Food + Wine Festival: Unforgettable Flavors, Spirits, and Culinary Delights
As the leaves begin to hint at their autumnal transformation and a crispness enters the Denver air, there’s one annual event that ignites the city’s culinary scene with unparalleled excitement: the Denver Food + Wine Festival. While many eagerly await the holiday season, for epicureans and enthusiasts alike, this vibrant week-long celebration is truly the most wonderful time of the year. It’s the perfect crescendo to summer and a magnificent kickoff to the fall, offering an exquisite tapestry of flavors, innovative spirits, and world-class wines that capture the very essence of Denver’s thriving gastronomic culture.
Having attended this incredible festival for five consecutive years, I can attest that each installment surpasses the last in its ambition and execution. It’s not just an event; it’s an immersive experience that awakens the senses and leaves a lasting impression on your palate. The anticipation leading up to the festival, typically spanning from early to mid-September, builds like a crescendo, culminating in a week where every day feels like a delightful discovery, much like the joy of Christmas morning for a food lover.
The Denver Food + Wine Festival is more than just a series of tastings; it’s a testament to the innovation and passion that define Colorado’s culinary landscape. Featuring a curated selection of the region’s most talented chefs, esteemed sommeliers, and innovative mixologists, the festival brings together the best of the best. From intimate chef dinners to grand-scale public tastings, it offers a unique opportunity to explore new trends, revisit beloved classics, and engage directly with the personalities shaping our dining experiences. This year’s festival, running from September 4th through 9th, promises to continue this tradition of excellence, inviting both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers to indulge in an unforgettable week.
With a plethora of incredible events making up the festival week, it can be a delightful challenge to decide which ones to prioritize. While I wholeheartedly encourage experiencing as much as you can, there are two signature events that stand out as absolute must-attends, year after year. These are The Shakedown and The Grand Tasting. Each offers a distinct yet equally captivating immersion into the world of fine food and drink, showcasing the immense talent and creativity present in the Denver culinary scene.
My September calendar is always marked for this glorious week of indulgence. It’s a time for savoring, exploring, and truly appreciating the artistry behind every dish and every pour. The sheer volume of exceptional food, wine, and spirits available is astonishing, leading to a blissful state of culinary satisfaction that often requires a “recovery week” afterward—and every single bite and sip is unequivocally worth it.
Building on the spectacular success of previous years, particularly last year’s festivities which elevated the entire experience from the innovative food creations to the diverse beverage selections and the vibrant atmosphere, I am brimming with anticipation for what this year holds. Ready to delve into the specifics of my two cherished events? Continue reading to discover why The Shakedown and The Grand Tasting are simply unmissable highlights of the Denver Food + Wine Festival.
The Shakedown: A Cocktail Extravaganza
For anyone who appreciates the art and craft of cocktails, The Shakedown is an absolute masterpiece of an event. It’s a vibrant celebration of mixology, where Denver’s top bartenders and acclaimed establishments compete to create the city’s most innovative and delectable drinks. Each year, I’m captivated by the boundless creativity on display, experiencing new and unique flavor combinations that challenge my perceptions and expand my understanding of what a cocktail can be.
I distinctly recall a particular tiki-style creation from Sarto during a previous festival – their Aperol Palizzata. It offered a refreshingly tropical spin on the classic Aperol spritz, a drink I wouldn’t typically gravitate towards. Yet, the masterful blend of ingredients in that cocktail completely won me over, demonstrating how a skilled mixologist can transform a familiar spirit into something utterly new and exciting. This event is a journey of discovery, offering a diverse array of libations.
Whether your preference leans towards the rich complexity of bourbon, the crisp versatility of vodka, the smoky notes of whiskey, or the nuanced character of sherry, The Shakedown has a spirit and a concoction to satisfy every palate. It’s a true playground for the adventurous drinker, providing an opportunity to sample a wide spectrum of spirits infused into expertly crafted cocktails, many of which you might not encounter anywhere else.
Beyond the impressive libations, The Shakedown also features an array of exquisite culinary bites designed to complement and enhance the cocktail experience. These aren’t just appetizers; they are carefully conceptualized dishes that dance across your taste buds in the most delightful ways. The synergy between the food and drink creates a holistic sensory experience that elevates the entire event.
A memorable standout from a previous year was the “jala-cannoli” created by talented high school students participating through the ProStart program. Imagine a jalapeño popper transformed into a cannoli – an unexpected fusion of savory and sweet, spice and cream, encased in a perfectly crispy shell. It was an audacious and utterly delicious creation that exemplified the innovative spirit of the event. Such unique culinary explorations are a hallmark of The Shakedown, offering surprises at every turn.
And let’s not forget the desserts! My mind often wanders back to the brown butter eclairs with salted caramel Bavarian cream from Williams & Graham from two years prior. It remains, to this day, one of the most exquisite dessert bites I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. The delicate pastry, the rich, nutty brown butter, and the luxurious salted caramel cream were a symphony of textures and flavors. These are the kinds of unforgettable culinary moments that define The Shakedown.
One of the most engaging aspects of The Shakedown is the opportunity for attendees to become judges. You get to cast your vote for Denver’s best cocktail and best bite, making you an active participant in crowning the culinary and mixology champions. This interactive element adds an extra layer of excitement and personal investment, making you feel truly part of the vibrant competition. It’s an evening of sophisticated sips, surprising snacks, and democratic deliciousness, making it an essential experience for any festival-goer.
The Grand Tasting: A Culinary Odyssey
If The Shakedown is a spirited cocktail competition, then The Grand Tasting is a sprawling, sensory-rich culinary odyssey, and unequivocally my favorite foodie event in all of Denver. How could one possibly resist an entire afternoon dedicated to exploring an unparalleled selection of delectable bites, exceptional wines, and diverse spirits, all sourced from the finest purveyors across Colorado and beyond? It’s an epicurean paradise, a true feast for the senses that offers something for every taste and preference.
One of the most astounding features of The Grand Tasting is the sheer breadth of its wine selection. With over 700 different wines available for sampling, this event is a dream come true for burgeoning oenophiles and seasoned wine lovers alike. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to expand your wine knowledge, compare varietals from various regions, and discover new favorites. To enhance this educational journey, attendees can download the Denver Food + Wine app, a handy tool for tracking the wines you taste, noting your preferences, and remembering those standout bottles. The range in price points, from accessible $12 bottles to premium selections exceeding $50, ensures that there truly is a wine for every budget and preference, making fine wine appreciation accessible to all.
And then, of course, there’s the fooooooood! Approximately 40 of Denver’s most celebrated restaurants bring their A-game, offering an endless parade of their best, most inventive bites. From haute cuisine to comforting classics with a gourmet twist, there is no shortage of culinary masterpieces to indulge in throughout the afternoon. Each station presents a mini-culinary adventure, allowing you to sample an astonishing variety of flavors, textures, and presentations, all under one roof.
The culinary artistry is truly remarkable, exemplified by dishes like the exquisite bite from River & Woods a few years ago. Their presentation was as beautiful as the taste was complex and satisfying, showcasing the refined craftsmanship that Denver’s chefs bring to the table.
Beyond the elegant, there are also wonderfully indulgent bites that satisfy every craving. I still dream about the decadent donut from Habit Dispensary, a perfect example of how even a simple treat can be elevated to gourmet status at The Grand Tasting. It’s a testament to the diversity of offerings, catering to every mood and preference.
And for those who appreciate fine spirits, the Patron booth consistently delivers a show-stopping experience each year. It’s virtually impossible to miss upon entry, with its vibrant display and an array of exquisite Patron cocktails that are sure to delight. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or simply looking for a refreshing, expertly crafted drink, this booth is always a highlight.
From savory sliders bursting with flavor to perfectly seasoned tacos, and an untold number of other innovative bites, the culinary landscape at The Grand Tasting is as vast as it is delicious. You can spend hours wandering, discovering new flavors, and revisiting old favorites, all while mingling with fellow food and wine enthusiasts.
They even had snow cones last year! This small detail perfectly encapsulates the festival’s commitment to delighting attendees with unexpected treats and ensuring there’s something fun and refreshing for everyone. It’s these thoughtful touches that make The Grand Tasting an event that truly stands apart, providing not just sustenance but an experience rich in variety and joy.
Why Attend the Denver Food + Wine Festival?
Beyond the obvious pleasures of indulging in exceptional food and drink, attending the Denver Food + Wine Festival offers a multitude of benefits. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Denver’s dynamic culinary scene, discover new favorite restaurants, and explore the latest trends in mixology and wine culture. You’ll have the chance to interact with the chefs, winemakers, and distillers who are driving innovation, gaining insights into their craft and passion.
Moreover, the festival serves as a vital platform for local businesses, supporting the vibrant community of restaurateurs, wineries, and distilleries that contribute so much to Denver’s unique character. By attending, you’re not just treating yourself; you’re actively contributing to the growth and sustainability of the local food and beverage industry.
The atmosphere at both The Shakedown and The Grand Tasting is electrifying—a blend of sophisticated enjoyment and enthusiastic camaraderie. It’s a perfect setting for a date night, a gathering with friends, or even a solo adventure for the dedicated foodie. The festival offers a unique blend of education and entertainment, allowing you to learn about pairings, production methods, and flavor profiles while having an incredibly enjoyable time. The memories created, from a surprising cocktail discovery to a perfect culinary bite, are truly priceless.
To get a real-time glimpse into the magic, be sure to follow me over on Instagram where I’ll be sharing live updates and highlights from the events. If you’re planning to attend, don’t hesitate to reach out and let me know—I’d love to connect!
Simply put, if you possess a profound love for all things food, wine, and cocktails, then securing your tickets for the Denver Food + Wine Festival is an absolute must. It’s an invitation to celebrate the peak of Denver’s culinary excellence and join a community of passionate gourmands. Which event are you most looking forward to experiencing? Share your excitement and anticipation in the comments below!