By Amy Bizzarri
From the region’s top blind-tasting tournament to tastings from one of the largest caches of fine wine—over 3,000 bottles—ever uncovered in the Midwest, here are the Chicago industry events and openings you need to know about this fall.
WineRival, also known as “The Superbowl of Wine,” returns to Venue West (221 North Paulina Street) on October 15. Sixty-four sommeliers will go head-to-head in hopes of advancing to the championship round for a chance at the $25,000 cash prize. (The runner-up will receive $3,000, and the other two final-four contestants will each earn $1,000.) This year’s theme is tailgating, and guests will enjoy football game–worthy bites by chef Fabio Viviani while sampling wines in a walk-around setting. A portion of proceeds will benefit The Balance Project, a local nonprofit helping families and individuals access emotional wellness support. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite.
Sommelier competition WineRival takes place on October 15 in Chicago. Photo Courtesy of FRANCIS SON
Modern Italian steakhouse Torali opened in late summer 2023 on the 12th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Chicago to serve local, seasonal fare prepared by executive chef Guenther Moreno. Menu highlights include hand-rolled pasta as well as prime and dry-aged meats paired with Old World–inspired cocktails. Torali kicks off its “Crafted Conversation” series on Tuesday, September 19, with a special four-course Chateâuneuf-du-Pape dinner hosted by Jean-Louis Smyl, export manager for Famille Quiot Wines. Tickets are available now on Tock.
Millennium Hall’s Double Clutch Beer Garden is hosting its 2nd Annual
This Article was originally published on The SOMM Journal
