Michael Politz

Correspondent

JERSEY CITY - It's no secret that Jersey City has been evolving as a food and wine destination and has become a cultural melting pot ideal for foodies. So, it's to no surprise that on Saturday, Sept. 9, the city is hosting the Jersey City Wine Fest at the Hudson River Waterfront.

Here, attendees can sample unlimited wines showcased by various countries for $65 per person if purchased before Sept. 2 and $70 after that for the event lasting from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. However, by using the code MYCENTRALNJ, you can get a $15 discount. To buy your tickets and enter the code, visit ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1503970.

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Some of the Old World wines you can taste here will be from Germany, Italy and Spain spotlighting different varietals of Rieslings, Moscato, Pinot Grigio and Chianti. New World wines, from countries such as America, Argentina and Chile, will offer different varietals as well such as Cabernet, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and White Zinfandel.

The Jersey City Wine Fest will have something special for the every New Jersey wine lover as well as food lovers.

Among the sampling of wines, there will also be live music by the Stereo Junkies Band, interactive games, seminars and food vendors offering items such as cheese, beef jerky, chocolate, and even bacon, to pair with wine samples. If you plan on attending, make sure you eat well beforehand and hydrate well. Since you will be tasting tons of wines, have fun and be responsible!

With your ticket purchase, you will receive a 5 ounce tasting glass to try all out all the wines you want. The Jersey City Wine Fest is also offering a designated driver program which will charge drivers $15 to enter, allowing them access to the festival without the ability to sample any wines.

if you plan on driving or utilizing a designated driver, head to Harborside 3 Atrium, Jersey City, to access the festival. If you know you will be indulging on some quality wines, you can also reach the festival by bus or train. My advice is to take public transportation or find a designated driver — both will help you get home safe and make the event more enjoyable.

Got a beer, wine or spirit tidbit to share? Email me at mpolitz123@gmail.com.

Jersey City Wine Fest

Where: 153 Harborside Plaza Two, Jersey City

When: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9

Cost: $65 if purchased before Sept. 2, $70 after that, $15 off with code MYCENTRALNJ

Contact: jcwinefest.com

Michael Politz, a lifelong New Jersey resident, has worked in the restaurant and bar industry for 20 years. He currently bartends at Water and Wine Ristorante, an upscale Italian eatery and bar in Watchung, and can be reached at mpolitz123@gmail.com. His beer, wine and liquor column, Spirits of NJ, appears Wednesdays.