Sarasota-Manatee Originals Announces 2025 Forks & Corks University Schedule

SARASOTA — On Saturday, January 25, four collaborative wine seminars will offer wine enthusiasts an exclusive opportunity to learn about world-renowned wines from across the globe from those instrumental in crafting them. Tickets for the Sarasota-Manatee Originals’ Forks & Corks University are currently on sale.

Forks & Corks University is an integral and ever-popular facet of the annual Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival festivities. Each of the Master Classes will be led by a panel of winemakers and wine industry Professionals who will share their knowledge at these informative, interactive presentations.

Each seminar lasts 90 minutes and includes 12 wine tastings. Sessions will take place at Michael’s on East Ballroom, and tickets purchased in advance are required to attend. University admission includes wine tastings as well as a pairing plate of light bites curated to enhance the varietals.

Those who “enroll” in a Forks & Corks University Master Class enjoy tasting and learning about diverse wines in a casual, and intimate environment with each class limited to 65 attendees. Tickets are $69 and $79 plus tax and a ticketing fee and are available for purchase online only at: https://forks-corks.squadup.com/

FORKS & CORKS UNIVERSITY 2025 CLASS SCHEDULE:

Wines Without Borders: A Global Exploration of Craft and Character

Saturday Jan 25 | 10 to 11:30AM

Embark on a journey through the artistry and diversity of winemaking across the globe. This session celebrates wineries that excel in crafting wines that reflect their region’s unique terroir, traditions, and philosophy, offering a window into the rich variety of winemaking styles worldwide.

Session Moderator:  Gabriel Garcia

Panelists:

• Charl Coetzee, Cellar Master | Babylonstoren – Western Cape, South Africa
• Mary Joli, SE Regional Sales Manager | Willamette Valley Vineyards – Oregon, USA
• Dupré L. Neill, Managing Director | Anthony Rupert - Protea – South Africa
• Yair Safriel, Proprietor/Producer | Safriel House – Western Cape, South Africa
• Ivo Jeramaz, Vice President of Vineyards & Production | Grgich Hills Estate – Napa Valley, CA
• John E. Buckey, National Sales Manager l ZD Wines - Napa Valley, CA

Legends of the Vine: Global Icons & Bold Reds

Saturday Jan 25 | 10 to 11:30AM

Explore the mastery of winemaking through iconic wineries and bold, structured red wines that define tradition and excellence. This session highlights benchmark producers who have shaped the global wine landscape with their flagship varietals and blends.

Session Moderator:  Ben Ferdinand

Panelists:

• Michael Keenan, President | Keenan Winery –Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, CA
• Harry Wetzel IV, Owner | Alexander Valley Vineyards – Sonoma County, CA
• Andrew Schweiger, Winemaker | Schweiger Vineyards –Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, CA
• David Sinegal, Proprietor | Sinegal Estate - Napa Valley, CA
• Dan Parrott, Proprietor | Jax Vineyards - Napa Valley, CA 
• Caroline Virasack l Château Haut-Bages-Libéral - Pauillac, France

Avant-Garde Expressions: Innovation in Winemaking

Saturday Jan 25 | 1 to 2:30PM

Dive into the cutting-edge of winemaking with producers who challenge tradition through creative blends, unconventional varietals, and experimental techniques. This session celebrates bold, trailblazing winemakers who redefine what wine can be.

Session Moderator:  Ben Ferdinand 

Panelists:

• Ana Lovaglio Balbo, Commercial Director | Susana Balbo – Mendoza, Argentina
• Todd Ricard, Director of Winemaking | The Prisoner Wine Company – Napa Valley, CA
• Eric Risch, Owner, Winemaking & Marketing | Patent Wines – Napa Valley, CA
• Michael Thompson, Owner | Thompson 31fifty - Santa Barbara County, CA
• Ariela Di Marco, Area Manager South and West Florida | Ethica Wines - Global
• Billy Grant, Sales Director l McPrice Myers Wines – Paso Robles, CA

Elegance in Every Sip: Cool-Climate Masterpieces

Saturday Jan 25 | 1 to 2:30PM

Delve into the finesse and balance of cool-climate varietals, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and select whites. This session highlights wineries known for their commitment to crafting wines with precision and elegance, reflecting the unique characteristics of their cool-climate regions.

Session Moderator:  Steve Harner 

Panelists:

• Gina Hennen, Director of Winemaking & Viticulture | Adelsheim Vineyard - Willamette Valley, OR
• Olive Hamilton-Russell, Owner | Hamilton Russell Oregon - Willamette Valley, OR
• Aaron Walker, Director of Winemaking Operations | Pali Wine Company – Sta. Rita Hills, CA
• David Rossi, Winemaker| Fulcrum Wines – Sonoma Coast, CA
• Simon Buck, Export Manager I Te Mata Estate – Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
• Jimmy Kawalek, Winery Representative | Ancien - Carneros, CA

Due to international travel and inventory limitations, class panelists or wines presented may be subject to change. Some of the Forks & Corks featured participants are being finalized and will be updated as they confirm their participation.  

For more information on Forks & Corks and to purchase tickets, visit www.eatlikealocal.com/forksandcorks