Just minutes away, the 10th Annual Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure hits the Glendale Civic Auditorium on June 21 offering a vibrant, accessible wine adventure for newbies and experts alike. Voted Best Wine Festival in the U.S. by USA Today in 2018, this event celebrates small-lot artisans crafting fewer than 1,500 cases annually, pouring innovative wines not found in stores.

The word garagiste, once a Bordeaux jab at unconventional winemakers, now signifies bold creativity. At this nearby festival, meet passionate producers from Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, Napa and local LA wineries as they share stories behind each bottle. 

With over 40 micro-wineries pouring 150-plus wines from 25-plus grape varieties – think zesty Picpul Blanc or bold Mendocino Carignan, along with favorites like cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, chardonnay – the diversity spans California’s AVAs making it a treasure hunt for every palate.

Unlike typical wine events, Garagiste offers exclusive access to creations from wineries without public tasting rooms. The “Rare and Reserve” level features coveted library wines and barrel samples, perfect for collectors and curious sippers. Limited tickets ensure an intimate vibe, letting ticket holders chat with winemakers without crowds.

The atmosphere is refreshingly unpretentious – no snobbery here! Winemakers share raw tales of triumphs and mishaps, welcoming everyone from Gen Z explorers to seasoned oenophiles. It’s less about wine jargon and more about the joy of discovery making it ideal for beginners, experts seeking wine’s next big thing and everyone in between.

Run by a non-profit, the festival supports Cal Poly’s Wine and Viticulture program nurturing future winemakers. Praised by the LA Times as a premier event, it’s a celebration with purpose.

Join this local gem in Glendale to taste California’s wine future, from debut vintages to rare library treats. Limited tickets are available at www.garagistefestival.com. Don’t miss this chance to sip, connect and join the wine revolution just around the corner!