San Francisco’s Annual Wine Walk
Wine, Dine and Have a Great Time!
San Francisco’s annual Union Street Has a Crush on You Valentine Wine Walk might have a slightly cumbersome name, but it’s a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day whether you’re on your first date or working toward your fiftieth anniversary. This annual event only began in 2011, but is a great way to sample some of the world’s best wines and experience some of San Francisco’s coolest and most comfortable wine bars while you and your significant other (or not) have a good time.
The timing of this event varies from one year to the next, but it is usually held on the first Friday in February. What doesn’t vary is the quality of the superb selection of wines available to those who buy tickets for the wine walk. A ticket includes a commemorative wine glass and a map with all of the tasting locations. From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., wine lovers can follow the Wine Walk map from one bar or tasting room to the next and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and “special treats,” specific to each venue. The event occurs throughout the cool Union Street shopping and entertainment district from Gough Street to Steiner and on Fillmore Street from Union Street to Lombard.
Wine bars, restaurants and merchants located along the route usually offer specials on food, wines and merchandise and the walk is a fine way to build an appetite for a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants on or within easy walking distance of the walk. Tickets cost $20 in advance and are only available through the event website at http://www.sresproductions.com/union_street_valentine_wine_walk.html. Procrastinators can buy tickets the day of the event, but they are $25 (cash only, please) and are only available at 2040 Union Street, across from the Metro Theater.
If you’re looking for cool date ideas for this most romantic time of the year, the Union Street Has a Crush on You Valentine Wine Walk is a fine alternative to the crowds and expense of a night out on Valentine’s Day. Or, it could be a great way to get the first-date jitters out of a budding romance in preparation for the big day! Either way, taking the wine walk is a great way to experience this cool San Francisco neighborhood, check out some eclectic wine bars and have a wonderful time.