One of the most selective wine-judging competitions in the country
The Invitational began in 2007 as “The American Fine Wine Competition”. The name has evolved, becoming The American Fine Wine Invitational, and now, “The Invitational”. In order for a wine to participate, it must be vetted and then personally invited by the AFWC Acquisition team. The goal of The Invitational is to seek out the finest wines produced in the United States and present them to the public. Judges include 32 of the finest palates in the country.
This influential and elite wine judging awards both medals (bronze, silver, gold, double gold, Best of Class, and Best of Show) and points which are based on a 100-point scale. Following The Invitational, an exciting wine event takes place, “One Thousand Bottles, Sipping through America”. Music, restaurants, wine, and an auction are part of the event. This event also widens the wineries’ exposure to commercial and private buyers. Wineries are invited to participate in this event to pour their wine.
JOIN US FOR ONE THOUSAND BOTTLES ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 19, FROM 6:30-9:00 PM AT FIU CHAPLIN SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY ON THE PATIO
TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE ON STRIDE EVENTS
https://www.strideevents.com/events/afwcs-one-thousand-bottles/2025/tickets
The 18th installment of The Invitational will commence on Saturday, January 18th- Monday, January 20th at FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality. For more information contact info@AFWCandGala.com
Helping shape future leaders of the hospitality industry.
AFWC partners with Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management to bring on students interested in the wine and hospitality industry, giving them hands-on experience, and creating opportunities to network with industry professionals while assisting in the execution of the events.
After the expenses needed to operate this competition are paid, the money raised goes to support local charities and students at the Chaplin School of Hospitality at FIU through the Joel Feigenheimer Endowment Fund and the Chip Cassidy Endowment Fund.
Both of these Endowments are to honor the lives and work of Dr. Feigenheimer and Professor Cassidy. Both were beloved professors at the University and have impacted countless lives. Their mission was to enrich the lives of their students and these Endowments have been created to continue their mission as best we can.
More than $1,120,000 has been donated to date.
