SIKESTON -- A record number of wineries will be represented during Historic Downtown Sikeston's fourth annual wine-tasting event later this month.
Set for 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sept. 14 on Center Street, the outdoor event, "Fall in Love with Downtown Sikeston," is sponsored by Historic Downtown Sikeston and provides the opportunity to sample the region's finest wines as they mingle on the cobblestone streets of Historic Downtown Sikeston.
Organizers will once again close off the front half of Center Street and the band, Past Time -- comprised of local musicians from New Madrid -- will set up at the front of the street with the wine booths lined down through the street.
"Past wine-tasting events have been very laid-back, enjoyable evenings -- even if you don't drink wine," said Lynn Lancaster, executive director of Historic Downtown Sikeston. "We try to doll up Center Street as much as can with fall decorations, tables and chairs and overhead lighting, and everyone seems to enjoy the atmosphere and sit and visit with each other."
Charlette Vanover with Historic Downtown Sikeston agreed.
"You can let everything go for one night," Vanover said. "This is Historic Downtown Sikeston's biggest event," Vanover said.
Regional wineries Boat House of Bloomfield, Hemman of Brazeau, Indian Hills of Puxico, River Ridge of Commerce, St. James of St. James, The Barrens of Perryville, Hunter Valley of Cape Girardeau, Bonanza Spring of Poplar Bluff -- along with Jeremiah's Restaurant in Sikeston-- will each be serving wine samples this year.
"For 20 bucks, you get wine samples, light hors d'oeuvres, a complimentary wine glass and can enjoy the live music," Vanover said. "I think the favorite part of the event is it feels like an enchanted evening. ... There's a camaraderie among attendees, too."
For the complete story, see Wednesday's Standard Democrat or log on to the electronic edition.