Memphis Flyer: Vintage901’s Grand Tasting at the Levitt Shell to benefit ArtsMemphis

By Julie Ray

There’s something intoxicating about the clinking and tinkling of wine glasses. There is something exhilarating about the arts and community. Put them together and you have Vintage901.

Founder Stephanie Ferreira says, “The best things happen over wine and food. Wine, food, and music are the catalyst. The big-picture piece is all the people who come to the experience. Bringing people together. Community.”

In its fifth year, Vintage901’s Grand Tasting will look a little different. This year, it will be held at the Levitt Shell with safety in mind, using open pods so that the community feels connected.

“The Levitt Shell was built during the depression to build morale,” says Natalie Wilson, the Shell’s executive director. “We want to go back to our roots and build community in these uncertain times.”

This concept is a direct result of the pandemic.

“It’s going to be a space for more uses, for more people to experience the magic,” Wilson says. “We are so happy to have Vintage901 here at the Shell this year.”

There will be an afternoon session from noon to 3 p.m. and an evening session from 6 to 9 p.m. The sessions will be different so that participants can enjoy both.

The musical lineup includes Memphis Youth Symphony, Opera Memphis, Memphis Jazz Workshop, Hope Clayburn and the Soul Scrimmage, and a presentation by Memphis Black Arts Alliance. Chefs will include Chef Tamra “Chef Tam” Patterson, Chef Jimmy Gentry, and Chef Aaron Winters. Wine experts Michael Whaley and Rick Farwell return this year, along with Kym Clark, who will emcee for this one-day outdoor event. Proceeds will benefit ArtsMemphis.

Vintage901, Levitt Shell, 1928 Poplar, Saturday, May 15, noon-3 p.m. and 6-9 p.m., $100.

Source: Memphis Flyer