Winefest in Valletta next week

Valletta's Upper Barrakka Gardens is set to be transformed into Bacchus's realm in the second Classic Wine Festival next week.

The three-day event, organised by Emmanuel Delicata Winemaker, starts at 7 p.m. on August 8 and celebrates the beginning of the grape harvest.

It will provide the perfect setting for the public to sample the numerous grape varieties grown in Malta and Gozo while tasting the gastronomic delicacies chosen to complement the wine.

The event will be inaugurated by President Guido de Marco with a spectacular wine regatta involving six boats that will race from Delicata's winery on the waterfront in Marsa to a point directly below the gardens.

The re-enactment of the ancient practice of grape crushing, along with live entertainment, will be held throughout the three days of the festival. Visitors will also be treated to a spectacular fireworks display from the feast of St Lawrence across the harbour.

New attractions for this year's festival include an audio visual presentation of the modern viticulture and winemaking techniques practised by Emmanuel Delicata.

Visitors can also sample two new wines - Dolcino Bianco and Dolcino Rose - or try out the new Grand Harbour Grill.

On the evenings of August 9 and 10 there will be comparative tutored wine tasting with wine expert Bill Hermitage at the Castille Wine Vaults, next door to the gardens.

Entrance to the festival is free, although anybody wishing to sample the wide variety of wines will have to purchase an official festival glass.

The glass can be kept as a souvenir and wine can be sampled as often as one likes.

Various outlets in Valletta are supporting this event by agreeing to remain open later than usual.

A free mini bus shuttle service will be available to and from the MCP Car Park, in Floriana to the gardens between 7 p.m. and midnight.