By JACKIE MOE
Swirling, sipping, and savoring took center stage Memorial Day weekend as the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival returned for its 20th year, drawing food and beverage enthusiasts to the scenic Balboa Bay Resort.
The three-day celebration, held May 23-25, featured a series of elegant events, including a Friday night wine pairing dinner, Saturday’s Grand Tasting, and a breezy Sunday brunch—all set against sweeping views of Newport Harbor.
Organized at one of Southern California’s most picturesque waterfront resorts, the annual festival brought together a wide array of premium purveyors. Guests sampled exceptional wines from producers such as Veuve Clicquot and Chambers & Chambers, alongside artisanal spirits including Empress Gin and WhistlePig whiskey.
Attendees strolled through the resort’s bayfront promenade, tasting sea-to-table dishes from local chefs and engaging in conversations with distillers, winemakers, and culinary artisans. This year’s Grand Tasting featured live music, lively energy, and a celebratory atmosphere that spilled onto the wraparound patio of A+O Restaurant | Bar.
Beyond the pours and plates, the festival served a greater purpose. A portion of proceeds benefited the Balboa Bay Club Scholarship Fund, which supports the educational goals of local students.
Now two decades strong, the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival has secured its place as a signature Memorial Day weekend tradition—blending sun, sophistication, and seaside spirit.
For more highlights and behind-the-scenes moments, the festival’s video coverage features exclusive interviews with participating vendors and a look at the vibrant community that brings this event to life each year.
For more info, visit: https://balboabayresort.com/event/newport-beach-wine-festival/
