Sure, Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center is a world-class music room. But about six times a year it’s filled with wine enthusiasts who sip, nosh and are enthusiastically instructed in oenology (the science and study of wine and winemaking) by one of just 299 Master Sommeliers in the world.
“It’s fun,” says Winter Park native George Miliotes, a former Darden Restaurants executive and now owner and operator of Wine Bar George in Disney Springs. “It’s not just some dude standing up on a stage being boring about wine.”
Guests obviously agree. Tasting with Master Sommelier George Miliotes has become a hot ticket, with gatherings based on various wine-related themes. This time, Miliotes will guide vino novices and veterans alike on a tour of The Red Collection—which will celebrate red wines in all their depth and diversity—on Sunday, October 4, at 1 p.m.
The Red Collection, like all the previous tastings, will showcase the sommelier’s handpicked selections. Guests will taste and learn about them through entertaining and educational presentations from the genial host, who describes his wine talks as highly compressed master classes “with some standup comedy involved.”
You’ll get six two-ounce glasses of various curated red wines and an artfully designed charcuterie board designed for sharing. What could be better than treating your senses to layers of fruit, spice and structure and uncorking conversation with fellow red-wine lovers along the way?
By the way, according to the Santa Barbara-based Court of Master Sommeliers, only about 10 percent of those who try for sommelier status pass the rigorous examination process, which encompasses technical knowledge as well as the ability to correctly identify wines by sight, aroma and taste.
Future wine events hosted by Miliotes will include The Blind Tasting Experience (November 1), The World of Sparkling Wine (December 6) and Grand Cru Reserve (February 7, 2027)—an elevated workshop-style event that will feature an exploration of six rare and highly sought-after wines.
Dr. Phillips Center is located at 445 South Magnolia Avenue, Orlando. For more information, call or visit the website.
