Though it doesn’t have any volcanoes to hike and the surfing is a little more low-key, Nantucket offers the same mix of adventure and luxury (and you don’t have to wait shoeless in any security lines).
Every spring, before the flood of summer tourists begins, the island hosts the annual Nantucket Wine Festival — a prime opportunity to taste the best wine in the world, the best food in New England, sleep in a centuries-old mansion and ride bicycles everywhere.
This year, its happening May 14-18.
In it’s 12th year, the festival is one of the region’s most celebrated food and wine events, and many of the small dinners and tastings offered over the long weekend are sold out months in advance.
The biggest event of the weekend — Grand Tasting — features more than – wineries pouring in four two-hour sessions on Saturday and Sunday. A price of $110 gets you into any single session, and $200 lets you have your choice between two of the four. Either way, your taste buds will get plenty of exercise.
There are dozens of dinners, demonstrations and tastings spread out over the five-day festival — here’s a sample itinerary to whet your appetite.
Wednesday: If you arrive in time, check out the opening reception ($60), where you’ll eat your fill of appetizers prepared by the executive chef of the Brant Point Grill, drink Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne and wander off into the warm May evening to the serenades of Nantucket guitarist Jim Sulzer.
Thursday: In the afternoon, head into town for “Un Monde de Fromage from France to Vermont” ($75), a lesson and tasting in cheese, with wine from Palm Bay International. Explore the artsy shops in town, and break away from the festival for a dinner at DeMarco, where you’ll be able to unwind with light Mediterranean cuisine.
Friday: Rent bikes and take the day to explore the island, its shores and its wealth of beautiful houses. A classic 21-speed will cost you $20 for the day ($72 for four days), or partner up on a tandem for $38 ($135). Head back into town for a cooking demonstration from the chef of Les Zygomates ($65), who’ll prepare fresh black cod and put on a show. Wine will be paired for tasting.
Saturday: Definitely hit up a session of the Grand Tasting ($85), but before that, try breakfast at Black-eyed Susan’s, a tiny cross-cultural bistro.
Sunday: For your last wine event, go to the WineDown Brunch ($75). You’ll eat food from world-class chefs, see a fashion show featuring Nantucket designers, drink mimosas or flower liquers, and the proceeds all benefit the Nantucket Boys and Girls Club.
— Sarah Trent