Savoring the Flavor: Wine Tastings and Pairings at OC Fair 2025

At the OC Fair, wine enthusiasts are in for a delightful experience. From smoked turkey legs to deep-fried sweets, fairgoers can explore the nuances of pairing different foods with a wide array of wines. Every weekend, the Orange County Wine Society organizes seminars where participants can taste a variety of wines for a fee of $30. These sessions showcase how different flavors of fair food complement over 2,500 wine selections.

The seminars feature an extensive range, from traditional fair snacks like corndogs to innovative dishes such as bacon-wrapped pickles and deep-fried Snickers. Seminar leader Sara Yeoman emphasizes the importance of learning about wine flavor profiles and the art of pairing them with various foods. The OC Wine Society has played an essential role at the fair for 49 years, providing educational wine experiences and hosting tastings that highlight wines entered in their annual competition.

Additionally, the society runs a Featured Winery program during the fair’s 23-day run where visitors can meet different California winemakers. These wineries offer high-award-winning wines, which visitors can sample and purchase.

The OC Wine Society coordinates over 300 volunteers to manage the Wine Courtyard, which allows guests to taste wines by the glass or indulge in various winery selections available for purchase. This year, visitors can purchase premium wine to enjoy during concerts, adding another layer of fun to the fair experience.

As attendees immerse themselves in the offerings of the Wine Courtyard, they can enjoy the atmosphere reminiscent of a real winery, with shaded seating options and high-top tables perfect for socializing. The goal of the OC Wine Society extends beyond providing an enjoyable fair experience; they also contribute to local wine and culinary educational programs, having already raised over $946,000 for scholarships in California.

For those wondering what wine pairs best with a classic smoked turkey leg, the recommendation is to try a Pinot Noir or a Rhône red, adding a touch of sophistication to the fair’s culinary adventures.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!