UNLVino - Sampling Food and Liquid Libations in Las Vegas

Happy attendees at UNLVINO Photo by Burt Davis

Las Vegas loves a party. And Las Vegans love to support worthy causes as well. UNLVino guests “took a sip for scholarship” with generous wine, beer, spirits, and food-tasting opportunities on May 2 at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV)’s Thomas and Mack Center. How delicious to be able to delight the palate and support the charity.

UNLVino was cofounded in 1974 by the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration and
Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Nevada the two organizations which continue to sponsor it today. Over the past five decades, UNLVino has raised several million dollars for scholarships and other academic develop needs of UNLV students.

Tasty times at UNLVino Photo by Burt Davis

This popular event was sold out several days in advance and featured samples from 20 restaurants and 50 beverage companies. Wine connoisseurs and just plain wine lovers walked the floor and had the option of stopping booths for tasty gourmet samples. The wine booths were especially as attendees were often given the option of experiencing their choice of several wine varieties.

The Designator Drivers Group had a prominent display at the entrance and were there to assist drivers with getting home safely. Several booths featured non-alcoholic beverages. Photo by Burt Davis

Don Ross and Michael A. Severino Award Winners Photo by Burt Davis

Unlvino continued its tradition of recognizing hospitality industry leaders with the Dom Perignon Award of Excellence. Don Ross and Michael Severino were this year’s honorees. Ross has enjoyed 38 years with Caesars Entertainment. Severino is general manager of Southern Wine and Spirits and is on the board of Keep Memory Alive.

Diversified food samples were plentiful. We ate our fill of items such as New England clam chowder, nachos, and freshly grilled sliders. There was a gelato booth and numerous desert pastry items.

The primary purpose of UNLVINO is to raise money, but the secondary purpose is to empower students in The College of Hotel Administration by using it as an emcompassing teaching tool. Students designed the layout of the event and worked closely with the various vendors in designing their booths and assisting in the food and beverage preparations.

UNLVINO started 50 years ago inside Southern Glasers Wines and Spirits warehouse. Since then, it has grown into Las Vegas’ premier wine, spirits, and food event. It has become and will continue to be a fixture in the Las Vegas community. We are looking forward to next year’s event.