"Wine Rave NYC": April 20-21, 2007

The Wine Rave seeks to set itself apart from similar events by appealing to a younger, hipper crowd -- free from the stuffiness that's commonly intimidating about large wine tasting events in the area. The event is best described as "wine tasting meets college fair" -- held in the landmark Guastavino’s guests can circulate among the many represented vineyards and distributors sampling their wares.

Most of the wines being sampled are affordable ($8-15 per bottle price range) and pours are quite generous. Generous pours often result in many a tipsy attendee as the event wears on, but there were plenty of places to take a break, and wine and cheese were available to absorb some of the alcohol being consumed. The more expensive samples, for example a Takler Takler Cabernet Franc (retail $135), are poured more conservatively, but available to sample nonetheless.

Aside from sampling various wines, the Wine Rave offered attendees a series of short, casual seminars called "Sips of Wisdom" covering topics such as "How to Start Collecting Wine" and "Beefy Big Reds from Argentina." Experts from various wineries and wine shops geared their discussions toward beginners, but were happy to answer audience questions.

In the "Hot Sips Lounge" attendees were able to try more extensive samples and discuss various wines with the distributors/winery representative. Topics covered in the "Hot Sips Lounge" included "Oregon's 3 Pinots" and "Hot Chile! Cool Wines."

This event makes wine tasting and education affordable and approachable for beginners. It offers groups of friends a fun night out with a reasonable price tag, and the opportunity to sample a variety of affordable, approachable wines. The Guastavino's setting provided a fun, hip atmosphere, with plenty of space for circulating, sitting and socializing during the event.

VIP Tickets - $100 | General Admission Tickets - $65

• Available online
• By phone: 212-352-9900
• At the door (if available)

• The event tends to be most crowded after 8:00 p.m. -- arrive early to avoid the crowds
• Check your coats/bags -- you'll need your hands free to juggle plates and glasses as you work your way through the tasting booths
• Dress among attendees varied from casual to hip
• In 2005, there were still tickets available to purchase at the door