After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 16th annual Forks & Corks Grand Tasting will make its triumphant return on April 23. Guests can expect to sample food from more than 40 Sarasota-Manatee Originals restaurants, as well as free-flowing wine from around the world.

Early access and VIP tickets will go on presale this Thursday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. Early access tickets ($350) include admission to a Champagne reception before the event, early access to the Grand Tasting and a $50 wine shop voucher to be used to purchase favorite wines from the tasting.

VIP tickets ($450) include admission to the Champagne reception before the event, early access to the Grand Tasting, a $150 wine shop voucher, complimentary valet parking and access to the covered VIP tent.

General admission tickets ($175) will be made available on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m.—but if you're gunning for those, be sure to set an alarm. The event is known to sell out quickly.

In addition to the Grand Tasting, Forks & Corks will be featuring its usual programming of wine dinners and masterclasses during the weekend of April 20-23. An online food and wine auction will begin on April 17 and run through April 23.

Forks & Corks is hosted by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals. Presale tickets will be available on Thursday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. on the Forks & Corks website.