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Fast Eddie's Fest Expands to Include Beer & Bourbon

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/18 .. ddie-s-fest-expands-to-include-beer-bourbon.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 8:16 GMT by Cleveland.com
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

Cleveland, OH - February 18th, 2026 - The highly anticipated Fast Eddie's Vertical Wine Tasting & Beer Bourbon Fest is set to return to the I-X Center in Cleveland on February 28th and 29th, 2026. What began as a niche event focused on the sophisticated practice of vertical wine tasting has blossomed into a comprehensive celebration of diverse libations, now encompassing craft beer and bourbon alongside an impressive wine selection. Organizers are promising the most extensive collection of these beverages the region has ever seen.

For those unfamiliar, a "vertical tasting" is a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. Rather than simply sampling a current vintage, attendees have the opportunity to taste multiple vintages of the same wine, produced in different years. This allows for a detailed exploration of how environmental factors - climate, weather, soil conditions - affect the final product. It's a fascinating way to understand the evolution of a particular wine and appreciate the artistry involved in winemaking. Fast Eddie's has built its reputation on providing this unique educational and tasting opportunity.

However, the festival isn't resting on its vinicultural laurels. This year marks a significant expansion beyond wine, acknowledging the booming craft beer and bourbon industries. The addition of these beverages reflects changing consumer preferences and the growing demand for diverse alcoholic experiences. Cleveland, with its increasingly vibrant culinary and beverage scene, is an ideal location to host such an event. The I-X Center, a vast exhibition space, is perfectly equipped to handle the projected crowds and the expansive selection of drinks.

"We're doing something new this year," stated Fast Eddie, the festival's founder and namesake, in a press release. While details were initially scarce, the expansion represents a calculated move to attract a wider audience. It signals a shift from appealing solely to wine connoisseurs to welcoming anyone with an appreciation for quality alcoholic beverages. This move is strategically aligned with national trends showing growing interest in both craft beer and premium bourbon, especially among millennials and Gen Z.

To complement the beverage offerings, Fast Eddie's is introducing a "Food Truck Rally." This promises a diverse selection of culinary delights to pair with the wines, beers, and bourbons. Attendees can expect a range of options, from gourmet burgers and artisanal pizzas to globally inspired street food, enhancing the overall festival experience. The inclusion of live music further solidifies the event's transformation into a full-fledged festival atmosphere.

Ticket Information & What to Expect:

Tickets for Fast Eddie's Vertical Wine Tasting & Beer Bourbon Fest are currently on sale, with prices starting at $50. This base ticket provides access to the general tasting area and live music. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP options are available. Details regarding VIP perks are expected to include early access to tastings, access to a dedicated VIP lounge with premium seating, and opportunities to meet with beverage industry experts and distillers. The VIP experience caters to serious enthusiasts looking for an elevated level of engagement.

Beyond the sampling opportunities, attendees can anticipate educational seminars and workshops throughout the weekend. While the specifics haven't been fully announced, organizers hinted at sessions covering topics like bourbon distillation, beer brewing, and wine pairing techniques. These educational components add value to the event, offering more than just a simple tasting experience.

Fast Eddie's is also taking steps to promote responsible consumption. Designated driver programs and readily available transportation options will be encouraged to ensure attendees enjoy the festival safely. The event organizers are working closely with local authorities to maintain a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone.

The success of this festival hinges on its ability to deliver a high-quality experience for all attendees, regardless of their preferred beverage. By broadening its scope beyond wine and incorporating craft beer, bourbon, food trucks, and live music, Fast Eddie's is positioning itself as a premier destination for beverage enthusiasts in the Midwest. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit [ https://fasteddies.com/ ].