“Vino Italiano!” will prelude the Vintage Days spring festival on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Fresno State Winery (2360 E. Barstow Ave.) between Cedar and Maple avenues.

Fresno State’s 40th annual Vintage Days is April 25-27 on campus.

The annual wine tasting presented by the Fresno State viticulture and enology program showcases student-crafted, award-winning Italian varietals including the special Picaresque Italian blend.

Picaresque is a Fresno State limited edition special blend released in 2012 in honor of award-winning poet Dr. Phillip Levine, the Fresno State professor emeritus of English who was the 18th U.S. Poet Laureate.

Guests also will taste the 2011 Sangiovese, 2010 Zinfandel, 2012 Barbera, 2012 Pinot Gris and the 2012 Muscat Canelli. All will be available for purchase at a discount the night of the event, said Kevin Smith, winery business and marketing manager and lecturer of wine business and marketing.

The evening will include barrel tasting, appetizers by Sam’s Italian Deli, music by KFSR 90.7 FM (Fresno State’s student-run radio station) and a wine raffle hosted by the Enology Society.

Winemaker John Giannini and students will discuss the enology program and Fresno State wines with participants.

General admission, which includes a Fresno State Winery glass and plate, is $20; $15 for Fresno State students, staff, faculty and alumni with ID card; and $10 for Fresno State Wine Club members.  Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.FresnoStateWines.com or at the door by cash or check.

The tasting is open to those 21 and older with valid photo ID.

For more information, contact Smith via email or at 559.278.4867.

(Copy by University Communications student news assistant Jodi Raley.)

 

Related links

Fresno State Winery

Department of Viticulture and Enology

Picaresque release