The second annual Wilmington Wine & Food Festival branches out into various events involving more than vintages.

Tastings begin with an Italian beer and wine dinner, featuring a cooking demonstration of the five-course meal, 6:30 p.m. April 29 at The Seasoned Gourmet, 1930 Eastwood Road. The cost is $50 per person.

Wine paired with hors d’oeuvres by area caterers plays at a progressive tasting that visits four historic downtown Wilmington homes 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 1 ($40 per person), but bourbon and barbecue are the highlights May 2, when Bellamy Mansion hosts local bourbon maker Trey Herring and his Trey Herring Carolina Bourbon.

From 7 to 10 p.m., area bartenders will compete in a contest for best bourbon cocktail while chefs vie for the title of best barbecue sauce, served on eastern North Carolina-style barbecue. The bourbon/barbecue event costs $35 per person or $60 per couple.

The Corks and Forks Grand Tasting Event ($45 per person) happens 2 to 5 p.m. May 3 at Bellamy Mansion. More than 150 wines will accompany nibbles from various chefs, restaurants and artisan food producers. Winemakers, importers and wine industry representatives will be available to answer questions and make suggestions. People’s choice awards will be bestowed on top wine and food tastes. Discounted wine will be sold, too.

Locally brewed beer, food truck fare, champagne and mimosas highlight Bubbles, Brews and Street Eats 1 to 4 p.m. May 4 at Bellamy Mansion. Admission costs $10 and includes five sampling tickets. Additional beer and wine sampling tickets cost $1.

For more details and ticket information, click here.