Philly Wine Cru has some spirited announcements

Philly Wine Week has always been one of the most anticipated weeks of the year, and the leaders of the spirited occasion have also always supported, celebrated and helped build the Philadelphia wine community to become now nationally known. Although Philly Wine Week is next month (March 30- April 6 with the Opening Corks ceremony on March 29), there are still ways that Philadelphians can celebrate a little early (while also helping out a great cause) and even some announcements regarding new changes for this year.

First off, Philly Wine Week is now known as Philly Wine Cru, which, according to the release, is an ode to the wine term “cru” meaning “a vineyard or group of vineyards of high quality” that also evokes the meaning of similar-sounding “crew.” The hard-working Cru group and its restaurant members will continue celebrating wine and helping fans find their next great glass in and around the city for years to come.

“Philly Wine Cru will still host Philly Wine Week, and we see the name change as a renewed and strengthened promise to our Philly friends and members that we’re ready to celebrate in good times and support in times of need,” adds Vice President Chloe Grigri of The Good King Tavern and new hotspot le Caveau in a release.

From Feb. 6-9, Philly Wine Cru will encourage Philadelphians to toast in solidarity to Australia. Our mates across the world have been devastated in numerous ways and Philadelphians can help show their support this week/weekend. It’s been reported that more than 60 vineyards and wineries have been affected, some losing all of their grapes just before harvest. To show support, a few top Philly spots will be uncorking Australian wines which are said to be the most dynamic and exciting right now because winemakers aren’t tied to appellations or tenets of blending.

Philadelphians can stop into: Veda, the Rittenhouse Hotel, Fishtown Social, Bistro Romano, Paris Bistro and Jazz Café, Bloomsday Cafe, Barbuzzo, The Good King Tavern and le Caveau, Tria, Vintage Wine Bar, Panorama, Bud & Marilyn’s and Jet Wine Bar to try some of the showcased Australian wines.

According to the release, each location will pour their favorite Australian wines, as both a celebration of what’s in the bottle and in support of the hard-working community behind it. Philly Wine Cru hopes this brings awareness to not only the wine, but the terrible losses many Australians have faced, including wildlife decimation. To help further, Philly Wine Cru has advised on ways crawl participants may donate funds and will share those with their guests who might like to contribute more.

“Philadelphia’s wine scene is having a moment right now, with so many great wine shops, wine bars and restaurants offering incredible bottles to drink. It’s moving to see and be part of it all. We’re excited and dedicated to keep the momentum going,” said Philly Wine Cru President Sande Friedman of Di Bruno Bros in a release.

On top of the Australian Wine Crawl, tickets are also now on sale for the Opening Corks Ceremony on March 29. The event will take place at XIX at The Bellevue from 6:30 pm-9 pm and admission runs from $40-$125 for VIP. Opening Corks will feature hundreds of sought-after, interesting bottles of wine and delicious food from South Philly Taproom, Hungry Pigeon, American Sardine Bar, XIX and more.

To learn more information on Philly Wine Cru, the Australian Wine Crawl and the Opening Corks Ceremony visit phillywinecru.org