The 28th annual Mom’s Weekend Winefest was filled with music, food and of course, wine.
Eta Sigma Delta International Hospitality Management Society hosted the event. There were some changes to this year’s Winefest said Bridget Wos, director of events for Eta Sigma Delta.
One of the most notable changes was the replacement of the traditional jazz band that performs. Instead, this year Eta Sigma Delta hired Matt Bekker, a performer from Seattle.
“We felt his indie rock style gave the event a different vibe,” Wos said.
Because Winefest was held Friday evening, many students used it as a kick-off event for Mom’s Weekend festivities. For some students, being with their mothers was the highlight of the evening, while drinking wine was an added bonus.
“Spending time with my mom and family was great,” said Brittany Agnew, a senior general studies major. “We all enjoy wine so it really was a perfect fit for us.”
Several mothers expressed that they had been looking forward to attending Winefest since their children were freshmen.
“My daughter just turned 21 this year and I have wanted to attend Winefest ever since she was a freshman,” said WSU mom Mary Sweeney. “It is exciting to finally be here and also know that we are able to come back for next year’s Mom’s Weekend.”
“This is my first year being 21 on Mom’s Weekend and I love wine and can’t wait to learn about all of the different varieties that are being offered,” said senior political science major Amanda Gorlick.
Moms and students had no shortage of wines to choose from. Thirteen wineries from throughout the state were represented at the event. Each winery had two to three different wines to choose from, including both reds and whites, with an option to purchase most of the wines at the end of the event.
“The event looks great,” said WSU mom Linda Jesperson. “There are a lot of different wineries and a lot of great food.”
While the lines to sample wine were long, the food line was just as popular.
The food was catered by Executive Chef Jamie Callison’s School of Hospitality Business Management Catering Program. The caterers served everything from Wagu Beef Sliders to Cougar Gold cheese-stuffed potatoes. Dessert was provided by Sweet Mutiny, a new cupcake and frozen yogurt shop opening in Pullman this coming week.
The event was sold out at both of the sessions — the 5 to 7 p.m. and 8 to 10 p.m. tastings. A shuttle transported Winefest goers from the Schweitzer Event Center, where the event was held.
Additionally, there was a silent auction, which included items ranging from wine to a football signed by Mike Leach, WSU’s new football coach. Wos said the auction raised about $2,700.
All of the money raised will go toward field trips for club members to gain experience in the hospitality field, including trips to local resorts. Everyone attending the event received a commemorative wine glass and photo with their group.
