There Is A Mimosa Festival Coming To Tampa

Mimosas are a favorite among the brunch crowd and a mimosa festival is coming to Tampa.

I've always been a big brunch fan. It could be because it allows for a little bit of a sleep-in on the weekends. It could be because you have both breakfast and lunch options. Or it could be because it's perfectly acceptable to have cocktails at 11am. Mimosas anyone? I love the social aspect of brunch that usually continues on beyond just the meal. Whether it leads to a day of shopping, getting nails done or to the pool.

But what is it about the mimosa itself that people like? This refreshing cocktail, made from just two main ingredients—sparkling wine and orange juice—offers a perfect balance of crispness and citrusy sweetness. And of course, you can switch up the juices. I love a mimosa with pineapple or mango juices too. The bubbles are light and easy on the palate, making it a versatile drink that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Plus, mimosas look classy whether you're at an event like brunch or something celebratory like a bridal or baby shower. I

I've always enjoyed the brunches that offer bottomless mimosas. Nothing better than paying one price and having as many as you'd like. On October 5th, Curtis Hixon Park in Tampa will be taken over by mimosa lovers. And speaking of bottomless mimosas, they'll be flowing. There will be 2 sessions, one from noon-4pm and another from 6-10pm.

Tickets start at $30. $80 will get you general admission and bottomless mimosas. There will also be great live music by R&B performers, a variety of food trucks, and with the setting right on the Tampa Riverwalk, it'll make for a beautiful day.

For more info on the Tampa Mimosa Festival and to purchase tickets, click here

I know National Rosé Day is in June. But there is also an entire month dedicated to the fresh pink wine. That month being August. So I threw a party. Here is what we found, 9 sippers for a Rose All Day end of summer soiree.

Every August, I have a Rose All Day Soiree where we pop the corks on rosé wines from around the world. I prepare appetizers I think will work with the wines and so do many friends who attend. We had everything from prosciutto cups and stuffed grape leaves to chicken salad and mini chocolate cheesecake bites.

I had almost a dozen bottles of rosé and friends also brought some to share. This year, we went through 18 bottles. In addition, there were some reds, whites and brut Champagne, but we won't add those interlopers to the tally.

It was all in the name of research of course. I wanted some material for Wine Wednesday. Such a sacrifice. And what a horrible friend to force others to participate. All kidding aside, it was a lot of fun trying so many different kinds of rosé side by side.

The ones made from pinot noir had a more savory touch while those from grenache were more fruity. Those are two common grapes found in rosé.

First,  VARA Silverhead Brut Rosado was a surprise favorite. Surprise to many because it was from New Mexico. Most guests did not expect this blend of 75% Syrah and 25% Chardonnay to wow them. The syrah gave it a beautiful color and great body. It has some of the fruit characteristics you would expect, like raspberry and strawberry. $28

Miami Vices was another big hit. It caused lots of reminiscing from the good old days of the '80's.

Always Drink Responsibly