The American Wine School presents a vast array of wines, spirits and specialty beers for sampling in the Grand Tasting Pavilion. Tasting passports start at $10.00 each, available online and at onsite kiosks. Each passport entitles attendees to six (6) tasting tickets, Schott Zwiesel crystal glass, and a useful information booklet!  Additional sampling tickets and glassware are available for purchase. 

Belgian Beer Garden

Belgian-born Master Chef Daniel Joly will pair foods with Belgian beers on the Belgian Beer Garden Stage as scheduled below. Chef Joly graduated from the Culinary Institute of Brussels and trained at Michelin Guide Three-Star Belgian restaurants Comme Chez Soi and Barbizon. At age 20 he became the youngest person in history to be named “Best Chef in Belgium”. Currently the owner/executive chef of Mirabelle at Beaver Creek, Joly enjoys cooking and pairing dishes with Belgian beers.

Belgian Beer Garden Stage Schedule

If you plan to purchase Sampling Passports online in advance - please bring your printed ticket with valid identification to one of the conveniently located kiosks onsite in the Grand Tasting Pavilion to expedite exchange for tickets and Schott Zwiesel crystal glass (pictured).

No refunds after purchase 

*Guests must be 21 or older to participate (Valid ID required at time of purchase) and adhere to all State of Ohio Liquor Laws.

Identification process:
All guests who wish to participate in the sampling of alcohol must adhere to the following:

• Provide valid identification at one of the convenient designated locations (Wine Cellar or show floor kiosks).
• A colored wristband will be provided – WRISTBAND MUST BE WORN AND CLEARLY VISIBLE FOR SERVICE AND ACCESS INTO THE WINE THEATRE SEMINARS.
• Six (6) tasting tickets will be included with initial passport purchase (additional sample tickets also available for purchase).
• Exchange tasting tickets for samples at booths located in The Grand Tasting Pavilion.
• Enjoy! – Then stop by The Wine Cellar on your way out to purchase your new favorite brands.

The American Wine School: Founded by Marianne Frantz (photo left), in 2002 offers a systematic approach to understanding wine. Whether you know a little or a lot about wine, the American Wine School can help you build your wine knowledge through a wide range of consumer classes, tutored tastings and special events. For the more serious wine student, the American Wine School offers an internationally recognized program of study through its affiliation with the prestigious Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). Guest lecturers at the school include noted wine makers, wine writers, visiting Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers.

Marianne Frantz: Certified Wine Educator, holds a Diploma in Wine & Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust of London and has also earned the Advanced Sommelier qualification from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Marianne is currenly a candidate for both Master of Wine and Master Sommelier. In addition to teaching, Marianne has produced culinary events across the U.S. and in France with the world’s top chefs and wine makers.