The American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter Presents:

 Find Your NICHE at Henry’s Place

Tuesday, September 29, 2026
6:30 p.m.
Henry's Place at NICHE
124 S. Broadway, Wichita, Kansas

Members $70 / Non-members $85

(All-inclusive pricing - tax and gratuity included)

AIWF Blind Wine Tasting Challenge - YOU Be The Judge!!

Join AIWF for an evening of discovery as we put two of the world's great wine-producing countries head-to-head in a fun and engaging blind tasting.

Experience 12 carefully selected wines—6 from France and 6 from the United States—featuring classic varietals and styles from each country. Without knowing what's in your glass, you'll compare how terroir, winemaking traditions, and regional expression shape each wine.

The wines have been personally selected and will be presented by Sommeliers Richard Routon and Nelson Escalante.  They will guide participants through each varietal, sharing their insights into French vs. American wines, and the distinctive characteristics that make each wine unique.

Can you distinguish Old World elegance from New World boldness? Which country will earn your vote?  Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious to explore, this tasting offers a unique opportunity to challenge your palate, learn about iconic grape varieties, and enjoy an evening of great wine and conversation.

The evening will also feature an exceptional selection of culinary creations prepared by the talented chefs of NICHE, thoughtfully paired to complement the wines and elevate your tasting experience.

DELECTABLE BITES FROM THE CHEFS OF NICHE

 Bloody Mary Shrimp Shooters

Bruschetta with House Made Spreads

Cheese and Meat Charcuterie

Ham and Cheese Croquettes

Hot Glazed and Hot Smoked Salmon Platter

Stuffed Baked Brie en Croute

Cold Beef Sliders

Chef Lexi Michael is the Dean of Culinary Arts and Executive Chef at NICHE (National Institute for Culinary and Hospitality Education) in Wichita. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, she has spent her career combining culinary excellence with hospitality education. Alongside her husband, John Michael, Chef Lexi is passionate about mentoring the next generation of culinarians while creating memorable dining experiences that celebrate creativity, sustainability, and the art of food and wine pairing.

Wines for this blind tasting are curated by Sommeliers and AIWF Board Members Richard Routon and Nelson Escalante

Please bring cash to participate in our raffle*!

Complimentary parking for this event will be available in CarPark Garage #5, just east of NICHE, courtesy of AIWF. Detailed parking instructions will be provided to registered attendees before the event.

 As with most AIWF events, you need not be a member to attend.

Space is limited for this event, reserve today!

The deadline to reserve is noon, Saturday, September 19th

No cancellations, substitutions accepted. 

Call 316-682-5502 for information only.

Upcoming Events:

October - “Happy HalloWine!” – Location TBD

November 12th - Riedel Wine Glass Experience at The DoubleTree by Hilton (7:00 pm)

December 5th - AIWF Holiday Party at The DoubleTree by Hilton (6:00pm)

January - AIWF Members Only – Location TBD (6:30 pm)

February - TBD

March - TBD

April - ProStart - East High Students at Lotte (6:30 pm)

*AIWF Wichita is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization “dedicated to advancing the understanding, appreciation and quality of wine and food through fun educational experiences in support of our Scholarship programs.”