Lions and tigers and merlot, oh my! One of the most wonderful times of the year returns as the 5th Annual Magic City Wine Fest is coming to the Birmingham Zoo to provide the ultimate food and beverage experience for those who are 21 and up, with proceeds benefiting the zoo. The event takes place from 6 to 9pm this Saturday, May 14th, and will feature live music in addition to the wonderful sipping experience. 

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The festival features an impressive selection of beer and wine from breweries and vineyards found all across the nation and world including Wairau River Wines (New Zealand), United - Johnson Brothers of Alabama and Mississippi, Palmetto Brewing Company (South Carolina), Riondo (Italy), Berceo Winery (Spain), and many more. Seltzers, hard coffee, Jack Daniels Country Cocktails, and more round out an impressive drink lineup that ensures there’s something that will appeal to everyone. Designated drivers are also offered cheaper tickets with no alcoholic beverages included.

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There will also be plenty of great food. Birmingham favorites like Simone’s Kitchen, Sweetie K, Tamale Queen, and Ivory LeShore’s Gourmet Bread Pudding & Cheesecakes leave attendees no option except to overload their senses with a combination of flavors that dreams are made of. VIP ticket holders are also provided free samples of Rock N Roll Sushi, which uplifts even the best of days to even more magnificent new heights. 

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It’s always a fun time when the Goodfellas are involved. Image from Goodfellas

Live music is another reason to get excited about this year’s Wine Festival. Saxophonist Vann Burchfield has made fans around the world for his thrilling performances and for setting the Guinness world record for circular breathing in 2000 after playing a continuous note for 47 minutes and 6 seconds. Birmingham is lucky to have him be a part of this year’s festival, as well as Magic City standouts, Goodfellas, who are sure to have the audience captivated with their signature jazz sets. 

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Birmingham is a city that loves good music, good food, and delicious beverages - and the Magic City Wine Fest provides all of these in plenty! Grab some friends, freshen up on your wine tasting terms (“My, this is a light-bodied wine but it sure it savory still” for example), and dust off your dancing shoes for the Magic City moment. 

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Cover image from Magic City Wine Fest

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