Ticket Pricing
Early bird pricing available
| Ticket Type | Early Bird | day of |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission |
$195
|
$250
+$55
|
| VIP Access |
$295
|
$350
+$55
|
A Social Tasting with up to 20 wineries and a charity silent auction! Participants are given a golden coin to vote for their favorite winery … the winning winery will be crowned Champion of RHÔNE WARS 2026!
A tasting of Rhône Varietals and blends - red, white, and rosé - incredible tray pass included by Chef Walter Manzke.
République Owners/Chefs
Walter and Margarita "Margie" Manzke
Chef Walter Manzke
A Southern California native, Walter Manzke trained under top chefs like Joachim Splichal, Ferran Adrià, and Alain Ducasse. After opening acclaimed restaurants in California, he became a major force in Los Angeles dining with concepts like République. Alongside his wife Margarita, he expanded internationally with Wildflour bakeries in the Philippines. His Parisian-inspired projects—Bicyclette Bistro (2021) and Manzke (2022)—culminated in a Michelin Star in 2023, solidifying his reputation in contemporary French cuisine.
Chef Margarita Manzke
Originally from the Philippines, Margarita Manzke built her career at top LA restaurants before co-founding acclaimed ventures with Walter. Known for her pastry expertise, she refined her craft in Carmel and later elevated République with innovative baking and desserts. She earned eight consecutive James Beard Awards nominations, winning Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2023. Beyond LA, she co-founded Wildflour bakeries in the Philippines and created Sari Sari Store. Her work at Bicyclette and Manzke helped secure their Michelin Star, showcasing her influence in both pastry and fine dining.
SILENT CHARITY AUCTION
Our 501c3 silent charity auction benefits the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles.
SPONSORED BY
AS FEATURED IN
About
IAN BLACKBURN
Ian Blackburn, CSW, Event Producer
Ian discovered the wine industry while visiting the Napa Valley as a Culinary Student. Ian moved his focus to the front of the house, while working with Thomas Keller and Joachim Splichal in Los Angeles. Now in his 30th year hosting events; leading trips around the wine world; Ian has published a wine education book and is working on a new one; Ian has his own wine brand called Beekeeper Cellars and has sat for the difficult Master of Wine Exam! Today, Ian is considered one of the region’s best wine educators and works for his 120,000 followers (follow me), visiting vineyards and wine regions and produce over 100 wine classes and events per year for Learnaboutwine.com
