Flint Institute of Arts to host final wine tasting event, honoring 24 years of tradition

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FLINT, Michigan — The Flint Institute of Arts Museum + Art School (FIA) and the Junior League of Flint (JLF) have announced that the 24th Annual Wine Tasting: La Dolce Vita will be the final event of its kind. Scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, the evening will feature a selection of over 50 wines, casino-style gaming, and curated cuisine.

“When we began meeting for this year’s event, we knew that this would be the final Wine Tasting fundraiser,” said Lauren Watkins, FIA Events Manager. “We wanted to end on a sweet note in gratitude for our longstanding partnership with the Junior League of Flint (JLF). The FIA is very appreciative of the JLF and all the good they do in our community. While we’re going in a different direction, we hope that everyone continues to support both the JLF and FIA.”

Event Highlights

The evening’s schedule includes:

Sponsor-Only VIP Reception – 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Willson and Bray Renaissance Galleries (Limited capacity, reservations required.)
Main Event – 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the FIA Lobby and Isabel Hall
Coffee & Dessert Social – 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

“We are excited to raise our glasses with some familiar Flint area folks and hopefully make many new friends,” said Watkins. “We believe that wine — like food — is a ‘love language’ and a gift that is best shared. The opportunity to experience new wines and share stories about them helps create a common bond.”

Tickets include (6) 1 oz. samples, with additional samples available for purchase. Featured wines will also be available for order at a discounted rate. Attendees are encouraged to wear cocktail or Riviera-inspired attire.

A World-Class Wine & Culinary Experience

The wine selection, curated in partnership with Eagle Eye Brands, features a unique variety of small-production, high-quality wines from around the world.

“This year’s lineup from Eagle Eye Brands captures an incredible cross-section of high-quality wine from around the world,” Watkins said. “A global perspective, yet with an emphasis on small production and the unique.”

Guests can expect standout selections such as:

“A 1974 vintage Rivesaltes fortified wine made in the south of France,” Watkins shared.
“An iconic Zinfandel from the acclaimed Monte Rosso Vineyard in the Russian River Valley.”
“An ultra-rare Pinot Noir from a remote hilltop vineyard in the Pyrenees Mountains of Spain.”
“A luxurious single-vineyard Barolo from the rolling hills of Piedmont in Italy.”

FIA collaborates with local wine distributors to ensure an impressive selection each year.

“We work closely with wine distributors in the area,” said Watkins. “This year’s featured distributors are Eagle Eye Brands, Vintage Wine Co., Great Lakes Wine & Spirits, and The Wine Poor. These distributors and their representatives will be present at the event to share their knowledge of their wines with guests.”

Pairing with the wines is a thoughtfully curated menu from Flint Social Club, led by renowned local chef Tony Vu.

“The Wine Tasting Committee selected Flint Social Club as the caterer for the second year in a row,” Watkins explained. “Chef Tony Vu and his local chefs have been great to work with. They’ve created an exciting menu that we’re sure our guests will love.”

A Celebration of Art & Community

Wine tasting isn’t the only experience guests can enjoy. Art lovers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in FIA’s collections.

“There will be a unique opportunity for sponsors to enjoy a private reception in the Bray Renaissance Gallery and the Thompson Gallery from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.,” Watkins said. “The FIA Galleries will also be open during the event for anyone who would like the chance to step away and enjoy.”

Over the past 24 years, the event has helped fund community partnerships and outreach.

“The FIA is thrilled to celebrate the last 24 years of Wine Tasting that has continued to support museum programming and Pre-K through 12 student outreach as well as the JLF and their community partners,” Watkins said. “While this is the last event of its kind, there are still many opportunities to support the FIA through our fundraising events, membership, art classes, and many wonderful programs.”

Ticket Information

FIA & JLF Members – $100 per guest
Non-Members – $125 per guest
Designated Driver – $50 per guest

Proceeds from the event will support FIA museum programming and Pre-K through 12 student outreach, as well as the Junior League of Flint and its community initiatives.

“While this is the final wine tasting, we are excited for what’s ahead and grateful for everyone who has supported us throughout the years,” said Watkins. “This is going to be a night to remember.”

Tickets for the 24th Annual Wine Tasting: La Dolce Vita can be sponsored and purchased here. To learn more about the Flint Institute of Arts Museum + Art School, visit: flintarts.org