On February 16 & 17 the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center will once again welcome the Boston Wine Expo, a 2-day extravaganza featuring a Grand Tasting brimming with well above 200 wines hailing from more than 15 countries. 

The intoxicating affair will include a bevy of Boston’s most celebrated chefs set to showcase their superior sauté skills on stage. Ming Tsai of Blue Ginger and Blue Dragon; and Barbara Lynch of Sportello, No. 9 Park, Menton, B&G Oysters and The Butch Shop will open the event. But the phenomenal food does not finish there as other acclaimed artists such as Jose Duarte of Taranta; Andy Husbands of Sister Sorel and Tremont 647; and Kevin Long of Empire, Tosca and Red Lantern commandeer center-stage to cook for consumers. Mary Ann Esposito, legendary host of Ciao Italia, will also be sizzling up a storm.

The Grand Cru Wine Lounge, highlighting a montage of rare and expensive vintages, is not to be missed. I must confess, I can taste the vast and vibrant varietals exclusive to the private tasting as I type. Perhaps it’s my glass of Caymus Conundrum talking.

As for the seminars that will be presented throughout the weekend, the Russian River Valley and Sonoma County sessions are top on my list as Mr. Chat and I have been discussing a California wine tour. I also look forward to learning more about the rich and robust blends of Spain and Portugal, two countries which I have truly enjoyed touring for wine, food and culture.

To purchase tickets to the Boston Wine Expo, click here. And don’t forget, Valentine’s Day is February 14. Hint. Hint. Clink. Clink. Cheers!