The Alternative Press

SUMMIT, NJ - The Summit Wine & Food Festival wouldn't be the same without the wine, and this year's event is set to highlight not only wine but some of the industry's best sommeliers.

The Sommelier Summit Competition Lunch will be Saturday, Sept. 22 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Grand Summit Hotel. Tickets are $90.

Sommeliers not only posses extensive knowledge about food pairings, but they must also know about viticulture, winemaking, proper storage and service, not to mention the geography and history of both wines and wine-producing regions, said Ivan Ruiz, owner of the Wine List of Summit and festival founder.

Educational, fun, and entertaining, The Summit Wine and Food Festival's "Sommelier Showdown" Luncheon has become one of the festival's most popular events. This is a deliciously entertaining event featuring professional sommeliers in a competition demonstrating their skills in front of a panel of judges.

Watch some of the nation's best sommeliers practice their craft in this fascinating contest. Of course, the competition features a major culinary aspect as well. The wines being judged by the sommeliers will be paired with a sensational three course-lunch prepared by three Master Chefs, allowing attendees to sample and taste along with the contestants.

For tickets to the luncheon or more information about the festival, visit www.summitwineandfood.com.