Every year, hundreds of wine enthusiasts descend on Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach, when the boutique property hosts California’s top winemakers at its “Ultimate Wine Festival.” 

Bigger and better than ever, this year’s event, set for Sunday, April 28, features more than 30 notable wineries presenting their latest vintages.  Among the “A list” of winemakers set to attend are: Michael Silacci of Opus One; Heidi Barrett of La Sirena; Amelia Morán Ceja of Ceja Vineyards; Violet Grgich of Grgich Hills Estates; Zeke Neeley of Trefethen; Dominic Chappellet of Chappellet Vineyards; Jean Hoefliger of Alpha Omega; Marcelo Freitas of Quintessa ; Mario Monticelli of Trinchero, and Sam Baxter of Terra Valentine.

The crème de la crème of wine tasting event will also include elegantly presented, tray-passed hors d’oeuvres.  The event will run from 2-5 p.m., with a special admission price of $200 per person for the Reserve Magnum Tasting between 2-3 p.m., and a $125 admission per person for those arriving between 3-5 p.m. A percentage of proceeds will benefit the Manhattan Beach Middle School. This special event is limited to 350 guests and is expected to sell out quickly.

“We continue to enjoy unique relationships with winemakers and have worked for many months to plan this event,” said Michael Zislis, owner of Shade Hotel.  “After the success of last year’s event, we can’t wait to bring the Ultimate Wine Festival back to Shade for the eighth year.”