Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Named ExclusiveWine & SpiritsProvider for NYC Wine & Food Festival
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Southern Glazer’s) — the world’s leading distributor of beverage alcohol — proudly announced today its 18th consecutive year serving as the exclusive provider of wine and spirits for the renowned Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Invesco QQQ (NYCWFF). Widely regarded as New York City’s premier culinary celebration, the five-day festival draws food and beverage enthusiasts from around the globe, featuring more than 50 signature events that highlight the talents of celebrated chefs, iconic restaurants, renowned mixologists, wine and spirits producers, culinary creators, and America’s most beloved television personalities.
The festival not only showcases the culinary artistry of top chefs but also serves a greater purpose. Net proceeds from NYCWFF benefit the Event Zero Foundation, which champions sustainable practices across the event industry, and the James Beard Foundation®, which is committed to nurturing a vibrant, equitable, and environmentally resilient restaurant sector — a cornerstone of American culture, community, and economic vitality.
“We are thrilled to welcome back food and wine enthusiasts to the New York City Wine & Food Festival for another remarkable year,” said Lee Brian Schrager, Chief Communications Officer & Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility for Southern Glazer’s, and Founder and Executive Director of both NYCWFF and its sister festival, the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®). “This year’s festival is particularly special, not only because it’s one of the city’s most iconic culinary events, but also because it continues to champion causes that matter — from environmental sustainability to supporting the hospitality industry. With 65 supplier partners and more than 400 exceptional brands on display, attendees will have the chance to explore innovative flavors, discover unique beverages, and experience new culinary moments that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship.”
Since its inception, NYCWFF has generated over $14.8 million for beneficiary organizations, and when combined with the philanthropic impact of SOBEWFF®, the two festivals have collectively raised nearly $60 million for their communities. Over nearly two decades, these contributions have supported initiatives in culinary education, sustainability, and hospitality development, making NYCWFF a true force for positive change in the industry.
For its 18th edition, NYCWFF is reimagining the festival experience with a new waterfront campus in the historic Seaport district of Lower Manhattan. This elevated setting provides a stunning backdrop for a wide array of signature events and fan-favorite experiences. Highlights include the “Square presents Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Trade Day” hosted by Wine Spectator, the Grand Tasting: Daytime Edition featuring Sofia and Manolo Vergara, and the Grand Tasting: After Dark presented by Montchevre Goat Cheese and hosted by celebrity chefs Bobby Flay and Brooke Williamson. Alongside these marquee events, the festival offers numerous beverage-centric gatherings designed to delight attendees with innovative pairings, interactive experiences, and one-of-a-kind tastings.
Among the festival’s standout events is A Taste of Tomorrow – An Evening Celebrating James Beard Foundation Award-Recognized Chefs and Fine Wines, hosted by the acclaimed chef Marcus Samuelsson. Scheduled for October 16, from noon to 4 p.m., this walk-around tasting event will spotlight signature dishes from more than 20 award-winning and nominated chefs, paired with an exceptional selection of wines and spirits. The evening is designed to honor culinary excellence while supporting the James Beard Foundation’s mission to elevate the restaurant and hospitality community.
Another highlight is the Sunset Tasting Happy Hour presented by Jack Daniel’s Bonded, taking place on October 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. Guests can sip inventive cocktails while enjoying expertly curated small bites, live music, and breathtaking waterfront views, creating a perfect blend of socializing and gastronomic indulgence.
In addition, Patrón Tequila presents Tacos & Tequila, hosted by actress and culinary enthusiast Brie Larson, cookbook author and chef Courtney McBroom, and celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez, promises an exciting mix of flavors and entertainment. This event, featuring Tequila Cazadores, will offer attendees the chance to savor tacos and tequila-infused cocktails while sampling some of New York City’s top street eats. The hosts will engage with festival-goers through live demonstrations, discussions on culinary creativity, and insights into their upcoming cookbook, PARTY PEOPLE, creating a dynamic and interactive culinary experience.
“Southern Glazer’s commitment to NYCWFF reflects our dedication to both the art of hospitality and meaningful social impact,” added Schrager. “Each year, we strive to create an environment where attendees can explore extraordinary flavors, meet the talent behind the food and drink they love, and experience moments that are both memorable and meaningful. From small craft spirits to globally recognized wine brands, the festival offers a platform for our partners to shine and for guests to discover new favorites.”
The 18th NYCWFF also includes immersive tastings, hands-on cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits masterclasses, and unique networking opportunities for culinary professionals and enthusiasts alike. From intimate dinners hosted by Michelin-starred chefs to high-energy cocktail competitions, every event is designed to engage the senses, educate attendees, and foster a deeper appreciation for culinary arts.
Beyond the festival’s immediate experiences, NYCWFF serves as a platform to inspire change within the industry. By directing funds to organizations such as the James Beard Foundation and Event Zero, the festival helps advance sustainability initiatives, support culinary education, and champion diversity and equity in the hospitality sector. These efforts underscore the festival’s broader vision: to celebrate culinary excellence while nurturing the next generation of chefs, restaurateurs, and beverage professionals.
As the festival returns to New York City this October, attendees can look forward to a dynamic celebration of flavors, creativity, and community. With Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits at the helm of the festival’s beverage program, guests can expect expertly curated tastings, thoughtfully paired cocktails, and engaging educational experiences that highlight the depth and diversity of the wine and spirits world.
For nearly two decades, NYCWFF has set the standard for culinary festivals in the United States, combining star-studded talent, world-class cuisine, and philanthropic impact. The 18th edition promises to continue this legacy, offering both longtime fans and first-time attendees a festival experience that is immersive, inspiring, and unforgettable. From award-winning chefs to pioneering mixologists, from craft wineries to global spirits brands, NYCWFF is a celebration of the art, science, and passion behind every dish and drink.
With an expansive new location, curated events, and a focus on sustainability and social responsibility, this year’s festival is shaping up to be one of the most memorable editions yet. As Schrager emphasized, “NYCWFF is more than just a culinary event; it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. We are proud to provide a platform for incredible talent, support meaningful causes, and create experiences that will leave a lasting impression on everyone who attends.”
The 18th Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival runs from October 16–20, 2025, in Lower Manhattan’s historic Seaport district. Tickets for individual events and festival passes are available now, offering attendees the opportunity to participate in one of the city’s most celebrated culinary experiences while supporting causes that matter.
