The Sandestin Wine Festival — one of the top wine festivals in the country — recently donated more than $50,000 to local charities and philanthropic causes. The news was announced during a press event at The Village of Baytowne Wharf in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Village Special Event Manager Lanier Motes presented a $33,000 check to Kim Henderson, Executive Director of Fisher House of the Emerald Coast; and a $21,000 check to Sara Becnel, board member of the Sandestin Foundation for Kids.

“This year was a record year, and we appreciate the support of the community, leading wine distributors and other valued partners,” said Motes.

According Henderson, the funds donated to the Fisher House will be used for worthwhile efforts to assist military families with a member undergoing local medical treatment. On behalf of the Sandestin Foundation for Kids, Becnel reported the funds will support the organization’s mission to make a meaningful and positive difference in children’s lives, including health and economic issues.

The Sandestin Wine Festival has been called the “Kentucky Derby of Wine Festivals” because of its grandeur, southern appeal, white tents, and the tasting of hundreds of wines. With its 27-year history, the event is the most established and continuously running wine festival on the Gulf Coast.

In addition to its philanthropic contributions, the Sandestin Wine Festival is estimated to generate hundreds of thousands of dollars in economic impact to the area including accommodations, food and beverage and shopping and other travel spending.

For more info, visit sandestinwinefestival.com.