A Toast to 30 Years: Join Us for a Special Wine Dinner Celebration

Here are the details, at-a-glance, for this exciting wine pairing dinner event in Chicago, which you don’t want to miss out on:

• Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025
• Time: 6:30 PM
• Location: Wildfire Chicago – 159 W. Erie Chicago, IL 60654
• Price: $145 per person, plus tax (gratuity not included)
• Includes: Five-course meal + wine pairings
• Guest Speaker: Joe Spellman, Justin Vineyards & Winery Master Sommelier
• Reserve: Click here to book your seat »

Chicago wine lovers, mark your calendars, because have we got an event for you! We’re raising our glasses to 30 years of Wildfire with a wine dinner unlike any other. Join us in our Chicago location for an unforgettable evening featuring Justin Vineyards, one of California’s premier wine producers. This elegant affair includes a five-course meal expertly crafted by Executive Chef and Partner Joe Decker, with each dish paired to perfection with a Justin varietal.

To make the evening even more special, Joe Spellman, Master Sommelier at Justin Vineyards & Winery, will guide guests through each pairing, offering insight, tasting notes, and stories from the vineyard.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to explore something new, this anniversary wine dinner experience promises to be one for the books.

Meet Justin Vineyards: World-Class Wines from Paso Robles

Since 1981, Justin Vineyards has crafted wines that showcase the best of California’s Central Coast. Known for its bold reds and elegant whites, the winery has earned international acclaim for its attention to detail and quality.

At this exclusive wine dinner, you’ll taste a variety of Justin’s award-winning wines—from their iconic JUSTIFICATION and ISOSCELES blends to a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc and more. Each glass will highlight the craftsmanship and terroir that make Justin Vineyards a standout in the world of wine.

For those who appreciate a thoughtful wine dinner experience, this evening offers a rare opportunity to sample and savor exceptional wines paired with food that elevates every sip.

A Five-Course Meal Worth Celebrating

In honor of our 30th anniversary, Executive Chef / Partner Joe Decker has designed an inspired five-course menu that celebrates the best of the season and Wildfire’s signature flavors. Each course is expertly paired with a wine from Justin Vineyards, enhancing the flavor profile of both the food and the wine. It’s a culinary experience created to linger in your memory long after the last bite.

Appetizer

• Wine Pairing: Justin Vineyards & Winery Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast ’23
• Potato Onion Focaccia with herb ricotta spread
• Seafood Ceviche featuring citrus-marinated Cape Cod scallops and Oiishi shrimp, served in a scallop shell

First Course

• Wine Pairing: Justin Vineyards & Winery Chardonnay, Central Coast ’23
• Pan Seared Florida Red Snapper sautéed radicchio & escarole, harissa lemon butter

Pasta Course

• Wine Pairing: Justin Vineyards & Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ’22
• Homemade Confit of Duck Ravioli finished in a savory maitake mushroom broth

Main Course

• Wine Pairing: Justin Vineyards & Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ’22
• Saddle of Colorado Lamb Wellington with pesto, spinach, fall vegetable gratin, and natural juices

Dessert

• Wine Pairing: Justin Vineyards & Winery Isosceles, Paso Robles ’22
• Anniversary Cupcake: dark chocolate cake filled with Door County cherries, topped with rich chocolate frosting

Each dish is crafted to complement the wines’ complexity, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture that reflects both Wildfire’s culinary heritage and Justin’s winemaking excellence.

Special Guest: Master Sommelier Joe Spellman

One of only a few hundred Master Sommeliers in the world, Joe Spellman brings a wealth of knowledge and charisma to every wine conversation. As the official ambassador of Justin Vineyards, Joe will be on hand to lead the evening’s pairings—sharing tasting tips, background on each wine, and engaging stories from his decades in the wine world.

Guests will have the chance to interact, ask questions, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the winemaking process and the art of pairing food and wine.

Reserve Your Seat at the Table

This 30th anniversary wine dinner is a one-night-only experience hosted at Wildfire Chicago, and reservations are required. With limited seating available, we encourage you to book your spot early and join us for a night of world-class wine, exceptional food, and great company.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Wildfire or a first-time guest, this is your invitation to celebrate three decades of excellence with us.

• Reserve your seat now

Cheers to 30 years—and many more to come.

We can’t wait to welcome you!