Dave Licata from the Winery at Marjim Manor pours a sample while Michael Licata talks with eager customers. (HEATHER N. GRIMMER / ENP PHOTOGRAPHER)

BY SCOTT LEFFLER
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com

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Wine and beer vendors had lines from the event's VIP opening at 4 p.m. right up until closing time at 9 p.m. (HEATHER N. GRIMMER / ENP PHOTOGRAPHER)

The Fourth Annual Niagara Wine & Beer Tasting Festival had the Kenan Arena packed Saturday night with people looking for tastes of their favorite adult beverages — and samples of new ones, as well.

The festival sold out shortly after the doors opened at 5 p.m., leaving some who didn't buy tickets ahead of time out in the cold — literally. Hundreds braved icy roads to make their way to the event, which has become a winter "must-do" in Lockport.

Ten wineries, most of which were local, were combined with about a dozen breweries, including two from Niagara County, to give attendees plenty to sample from.

In addition to the beverages, attendees were able to sample from a selection of tasty treats from local restaurants. Each ticket holder had a $5 voucher, good for anything from the food vendors.

There was also music from the Dave Stoll Acoustic Trio, who then handed the reigns over to Vincent Davis, who DJ'd the later part of the evening.

Organizers are already talking about next year's event.

There were dozens of beers and wines to choose from, including this selection from the Winery of Ellicottville. (SCOTT LEFFLER / ENP STAFF)

There's more photos from the event here. (link)

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