Known for its star-studded lineup of celebrity chefs, renowned winemakers, and epic culinary events and parties, the 2025 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) promises to once again transform Miami Beach into a paradise for food and wine lovers this Feb. 20-23.
This annual festival shines a bright spotlight on the world of wine. Whether you're a devoted oenophile or someone looking to sip their way through new discoveries, SOBEWFF 2025 offers an exciting range of wine-focused events, from exclusive tastings to lively pairing dinners and masterclasses with the industry’s top sommeliers. Get ready to raise your glass under our Miami sun and celebrate the people, stories, and flavors that make wine a big part of this world-class festival.
A BIT OF HISTORY
SOBEWFF is a four-day wine and food festival, celebrating its 24th year in 2025. The event started in 2002 and was founded by Lee Brian Schrager, then the director of special events and media relations at what was once Southern Wine & Spirits of America, and is now Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. It was predated by the Florida Extravaganza, which took place between 1997-2001, and showcased wines from around the world, paired with dishes by local chefs and restaurants, while working with students from FIU’s School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, now called the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.
By 2006, the festival was already one of the largest and most recognized food and wine festivals in the country. By 2023, SOBEWFF welcomed nearly 65,000 guests to more than 110 events. The festival is closely linked to FIU’s hospitality program, with student involvement throughout the many activities, and all net proceeds benefiting the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. The amount raised to date is $40 million.
THE IMPORTANCE OF WINE AT SOBEWFF
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits is the exclusive wine and spirits sponsor and one of the hosts of the event. This means there will be plenty of bottles and producers to explore over the four days of festivities.
As part of the esteemed New York Times Dinner Series, the 2025 Tribute Dinner on Sat., Feb. 22, at the Loews Miami Beach, will spotlight two luminaries in food and wine, the celebrated vintner Gérard Bertrand, along with the extraordinary talents of renowned chef Dominique Crenn. Bertrand, known for his innovative approach to biodynamic winemaking in the Languedoc region of southern France, joins Crenn for an evening of unmatched talent and excellence, perfectly paired with exceptional wines by one of France’s leading producers.
“Participating in the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival for the past 24 years has been vital for Southern Glazer’s,” said Mel Dick, president of Wine Division and EVP at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. “This festival provides a unique platform to connect with consumers and trade professionals alike, fostering relationships that help us elevate the wine and spirits landscape while celebrating the art of gastronomy.”
OTHER WINE FOCUSED EVENTS
The whole Miami area is abuzz with tastings and paired dinners during the festival weekend. Here are just a few of the official events focusing on wine. This is not a comprehensive list, so check the website for other wine events and more information on pricing and tickets.
On Thursday, Feb. 20, 5-7 p.m., experience an elevated evening of indulgence at the Champagne & Caviar Happy Hour, presented by Champagne Pommery. Hosted on The Betsy Hotel's rooftop in South Beach, this exclusive soirée delivers a luxurious blend of bold flavors and refined sparkle.
At the FIU Embrace Dinner, presented by Mollydooker Wines at La Màrtola, an elegant restaurant in Miami, on Thurs., Feb. 20, 7-10 p.m., step into an evening where tradition meets innovation, hosted by culinary maestros Cesare Casella and Paolo Domeneghetti. Casella will bring his signature flair for authentic, rustic flavors, while Domeneghetti, an esteemed figure in the world of fine wines, will curate an impeccable pairing for each dish.
On Friday, Feb. 21, 7:30-10:30 p.m., the Fontainebleau Miami Beach presents Wine Spectator's Best of the Best, an elevated walkaround tasting event, showcasing an exceptional lineup of James Beard Award winners, Food & Wine Best New Chefs, and Michelin-starred restaurants, alongside some of the world's most renowned winemakers.
Sip & Swirl: A Wine Happy Hour at Casadonna restaurant in Miami, on Sat., Feb. 22, 4-6 p.m., promises to be an exciting evening which invites guests to unwind and explore a selection of wines, curated from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits portfolio, ideal for casual sippers and budding connoisseurs alike.
“This festival is more than just a gathering of culinary and wine enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of innovation, community, and culture in the food and beverage industry,” said Dick. “Our involvement not only showcases our commitment to quality and excellence but also allows us to engage with fellow industry leaders, share our passion, and support local and national culinary talent.”
IF YOU GO
South Beach Food & Wine Festival
Feb. 20-23
Various locations in Miami and South Beach
For a complete list of events and to buy tickets, visit sobewff.org.
Jacqueline Coleman is a wine and travel writer and Star Wine List’s ambassador in Miami. She is a contributor to Luxury Guide USA magazine, a regular guest host on Linda Gassenheimer’s “Food, News & Views” podcast, and founder of BYOBMiami.com.