Lake County News,California – Home Wine and Beer Makers’ Fest coming in September

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — After missing last year due to the pandemic, the Lake County Home Wine and Beer Makers’ Festival is back.

This family-friendly fundraiser will take place at its usual location — Library Park in Lakeport — but on a new date, Sept. 18.

The “WineFest” normally happens annually on the Saturday before Father’s Day, so planning normally begins in February.

Since COVID-19 restrictions remained unclear in early 2021, organizers felt it prudent to change the date to later in the year.

Now in its 20th year, the WineFest has become a fixture in Lake County.

It was originally started by amateur winemakers who were members of the Lake County Symphony Association, to help raise needed funds for the Lake County Symphony.

The WineFest was later expanded to include amateur and commercial beer makers — a welcome addition that has included participants such as the Konocti Mashers and the O’Meara Bros. Brewing Co.

For nearly two decades, home winemakers and brewers from all over Northern California have come to Lake County to pour samples for the public.

Home winemakers have the chance to enter their products before the event for judging by experts. All participants are eligible for the gold, silver and bronze ribbons which are awarded for a wide range of varietals and brews. All have a chance to win the popular “Peoples’ Choice” awards voted on by attendees, with results announced during the festival.

While commercial Lake County wineries are usually on hand to pour tastes of their products too, they are not eligible for prizes; these only go to the amateurs.

But it’s not just about the wine and beer. As in past years, there will be numerous vendors offering arts and crafts, clothes and agricultural products. Attendees to this year’s event can also expect a variety of delicious food choices, including tri-tip sandwiches from our local Knights of Columbus.

Live music will be provided by the David Neft Duo, featuring David Neft on keyboard and Steve DuBois on drums.

The silent auction is another important piece of the WineFest as is the “barrel of wine” raffle, which gives the winner a huge assortment of Lake County wines.

“We are really glad we could make the WineFest happen in 2021,” said Carl Fredrickson, president of the Symphony Wine Club. “We did not want to miss another year. This is a major fundraiser for our local symphony and supports youth music programs, lessons and scholarships.”

WineFest chairperson Deborah Spangler-Welch added, “We are happy for the opportunity to share our local wine and beer again, and, of course, hoping for a huge turnout. We think people are ready to get out there, make up for the past year and have a fun day while supporting a good cause.”

There is still time for commercial or amateur wine and beer makers to get registered and participate in a day of friendly competition. Booths are provided at no charge to amateur wine and beer makers who register by the deadline. Food and craft vendors also have time to reserve a spot. Go to www.homewinemakersfestival.org for more details and to download an application.

Businesses or individuals who wish to support the symphony with a donation for the silent auction (gift basket, original artwork, gift card, or something similar) can contact Kerry Moore at 707-364-6165.

Admission to the WineFest is $30 with advance purchase, or $35 at the gate, and includes tasting of both amateur and commercial wines and beers. All tasters receive a commemorative wineglass and a wrist band for identification. Children and leashed pets are welcome, although tastings are restricted to those 21 years and older.

There is no charge for those who only want to walk around the area or visit the food vendors or the craft booths.

Advance tickets are available for purchase at Watershed Books and Lake County Chamber of Commerce in Lakeport, or online through Eventbrite.

For more information, go to Lake County Home Wine and Beer Makers Festival on Facebook or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Debra Fredrickson is a member of the Lake County Symphony Association.