The Grape Escapade Wine Festival

The heat is on in Goa. Both, figuratively and literally- in a matter of speaking. With temperatures soaring well into the late 30’s, it is time for that Gala moment when all of Goa descends on D. B. Bandodkar Football Ground, Campal, Panaji to celebrate the love for everything related to Wine, Food, Song and Dance. Conceptualized in 2005 by the GTDC - Goa Tourism Development Corporation, this four-day festival has garnered quite a reputation for one of the sought-after hospitality festivals to be present at. It basically encapsulates the spirit of Goa and Goan lifestyle with the celebration of wine, haute cuisine and an entertainment extravaganza that adds glamour to the proceedings. The festival brings together restaurateurs, hoteliers, wineries and lifestyle brands, all under one roof. The Grape Stomping, which is a tradition at the festival, is a source of much delight and fun for the visitors and is an intrinsic part of the festival. This year there was an addition of a dedicated kids area for the children in tow making it an entire family affair.

With world-renowned acts like ‘Moksha’ performing an Indi fusion medley to live acts from Goa’s leading bands Rythmn and Blues and Black, it keeps everyone on their toes with foot stomping tunes. An acrobatic act by the Kanan brothers had everyone in awe of the versatility and flexibility of death defying acts of the duo. An interactive tasting session by Sommelier John D’souza had everyone realize and appreciate the process of wine making as well as the crowning of the Grape Escapade Queen Contest, which draws some of the most gorgeous talent from the fair state of Goa. Food played a centrifugal role this year-round with many restaurants putting up ‘fast food’ items ranging from biryani and kebabs and pizza to burgers and fries to compliment the wine being served around. What was interesting to note-apart from the major players such as Fratelli, Myra and Sula showcasing their wines, this year we saw some home entrepreneurs such as Tonia wines and Pomar de frutas showcasing a delectable mango wine much to everyone’s amazement. A great family outing event to be present at, Goa Tourism did this in style for 2017!!