Exclusive access. Expert insight. Only at Festa Italia.
Kick Off Festa Italia with Rare Access to the Experts
Festa Italia begins with two exclusive VIP tasting panels, hosted in the rustic outdoor winemaking space at Orsi Family Vineyards in Healdsburg. These intimate, educational sessions are included with your VIP Pass and offer a deep dive into the world of Italian varietals grown right here in California.
You’ll hear directly from sommeliers, wine judges, winemakers, and industry leaders as they explore the nuances of Italian grapes in California soil—from vineyard to glass.
Two Panels. One-of-a-Kind Experience.
Growing Italian Grapes in California
Led by Christopher Sawyer, renowned sommelier and wine journalist. Explore the challenges and rewards of farming Italian varietals in California—from site selection to vineyard practices and varietal expression.
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Choose the VIP Pass: Viticulture Panel to attend this seminar.
Choose one of two Italian wine-focused panels: viticulture or winemaking. Seats are limited for both panels and available exclusively for VIP Pass holders.
Event Timeline
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Viticulture Panel with Chris Sawyer
included with VIP Pass purchase
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Winemaking Panel with Ryan Knowles
included with VIP Pass purchase
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
VIP Pass Early Entry to Grand Tasting
included with VIP Pass purchase
12:30 PM
General Admission Access to Grand Tasting Begins
included with General Admission & VIP Pass purchase
12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Grand Tasting Commences
included with General Admission & VIP Pass purchase
3:30 PM
Grand Tasting Ends
included with General Admission & VIP Pass purchase
Last Year’s Panel at a Glance
Our 2024 panel was co-moderated by Christopher Sawyer and Ryan Knowles, and featured conversations with:
– Bernie Orsi, Orsi Family Vineyards
– Dan Petroski, Massican
– Shelley Lindgren, A16 & Tansy Wines
– Mick Unti, Unti Vineyards
– Stacy Briscoe, Wine journalist & educator
– Ridgely Evers, DaVero Winery
Their insights set the tone for what’s quickly becoming one of the most anticipated Italian wine events in California.
2025 Panelist Lineup Announced Soon
This year’s full panelist lineup will be released in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to our website and email list for the official announcement.
Address
2306 Magnolia Drive
Healdsburg, CA 95448
Phone
(707) 732-4660
