Chattanooga’s favorite wine festival returns on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6–9 p.m. Celebrating three decades of raising funding for Preserve Chattanooga, wine enthusiasts will experience an evening of curated tastings, small bites created by chefs, and entertainment along the Tennessee River.
Best Cellars, which opens a weekend designed for wine connoisseurs, returns to the Hunter Museum of American Art on Friday, Oct. 24, from 6-9 p.m.
Early bird tickets are on sale at www.preservechattanooga.com/wineoverwater and www.preservechattanooga.com/best cellars. Quantities are limited. The historic Read House is the official hotel for both events and is offering special rates.
This year, Wine Over Water transforms Renaissance Park into a magical wonderland with atmospheric lighting and views of the historic Walnut and Market Street Bridges.
“For three decades, Wine Over Water has been a highlight of autumn in Chattanooga—where friends gather by the river, sample specially selected wines and create memories,” said Maury Nicely, Preserve Chattanooga board member and honorary co-chair. Co-Chair Jennifer Nicely, added, “We have enjoyed attending the event since 1997, and we are honored to be working with the staff and planning team to bring Chattanooga two unforgettable events. We are involved because we care deeply about history and historic preservation in our city.”
Chattanooga’s "upscale and sophisticated wine event curates premium tastings alongside delectable food pairings" created by Chef Kevin Ramquist and live music.
Honorary Chairs Jennifer and Maury Nicely are recognized for their community leadership, love for Chattanooga history and support for good causes. They have lent their expertise to making this year’s events the best ever, said officials. Delton Chen, a Preserve Chattanooga board member, chairs the events planning committee with 18 dedicated volunteers - who work at Chattanooga Tourism Co., River City Company, St. John’s, and other entities - bringing expertise in food, wine, music, logistics, marketing and volunteer coordination.
Wine Over Water and Best Cellars directly benefit Preserve Chattanooga, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1975 (then known as Landmarks Chattanooga, later Cornerstones), the nonprofit has protected the city’s architectural heritage through historic preservation, education and advocacy for a half century.
“Chattanooga has a rich architectural heritage,” said Todd Morgan, executive director of Preserve Chattanooga. “The challenge for a growing city is how to protect this heritage while growing in a way that complements well-established design traditions. Chattanooga is fortunate to have a dedicated historic preservation nonprofit active in our community.”
Learn more about Preserve Chattanooga’s work and mission and sign up for the newsletter www.preservechattanooga.com.
Platinum presenting sponsors are Food City and Lexus of Chattanooga.
Tickets for Wine Over Water (Oct. 25, 6–9 p.m.) and Best Cellars (Oct. 24, 6–9 p.m.) are on sale now at www.preservechattanooga.com/wineoverwater and www.preservechattanooga.com/bestcellars
All proceeds benefit Preserve Chattanooga’s preservation, education, and advocacy work.