There’s something magical about combining great wine with beautiful surroundings, and the Wine Tasting and History evening at San Diego Botanic Garden delivers on both fronts.
Certified Sommelier Dane Kuta is hosting an intimate experience that blends wine education with captivating storytelling, all set against the garden’s lush backdrop.
This isn’t your typical wine tasting where we stand around a bar trying to detect hints of blackberry and oak. Instead, we get to explore the gardens while learning about Central Italy’s wine heritage through five carefully selected bottles that showcase indigenous grapes and unique production techniques.
The Stories Behind the Sips
What sets this experience apart is Kuta’s approach to wine education. Rather than drowning us in technical jargon, he weaves together the history and culture behind each pour.
We’ll hear about the legendary Black Rooster tale—a symbol deeply connected to Chianti’s wine traditions that most of us probably don’t know but definitely should.
The focus on Central Italy’s indigenous grapes means we’re likely tasting varietals that don’t typically show up in our local wine shops. These are the bottles that tell the real story of Italian winemaking, beyond the familiar names we already recognize.
Garden Setting Elevates Everything
The San Diego Botanic Garden provides the perfect atmosphere for an evening like this. As the sun sets and the temperature cools, wandering through different garden areas while sipping wine feels almost European. The natural beauty enhances every sip and makes the stories more memorable.
The timing works perfectly too—6 PM to 7:30 PM gives us enough daylight to appreciate the surroundings early on, then transitions into that golden hour lighting that makes everything look Instagram-worthy.
What’s Included
The $70 member price (or $80 for non-members) covers the five-wine tasting plus charcuterie snacks designed to complement the selections. It’s a fair value considering the sommelier-guided experience, the unique venue, and the educational component that goes beyond simple tasting notes.
The charcuterie element is thoughtful—having proper food pairings helps us better appreciate each wine while keeping our palates fresh throughout the evening.
Perfect for Wine Lovers
Whether we consider ourselves wine enthusiasts or just enjoy learning something new while sipping good vino, this format works. Kuta’s certified sommelier credentials mean we’re getting legitimate expertise, but the storytelling approach keeps things engaging rather than intimidating.
The intimate setting encourages questions and conversation, making it feel more like a guided exploration among friends than a formal class.
See you there!
Ready to discover Central Italian wines while strolling through beautiful gardens? This Wine Tasting & History evening promises perfect pairings of knowledge and nature.
📆 Thursday, August 21, 6 PM–7:30 PM
🎟️ $70 Members, $80 Non-members
📍 San Diego Botanic Garden
🍷 Five wines plus charcuterie included
See you there, San Diego!