Moët & Chandon joined Bowen’s Wharf Company as presenting sponsor of the Newport Oyster Festival, Newport Wooden Boat Show and Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival. The partnership celebrated Rhode Island’s marine community through a series of waterfront events in downtown Newport. Café-style seating was set up throughout the Wharf around the live music stage. Cuisines from participating restaurants such as The Wharf Pub, The Landing, Speakeasy Bar & Grill and Matunuck Oyster Bar, chilled champagne at a specialty Moët bar, specialty cocktails and an Ardbeg Bloody Mary Seafood Bar were among highlights. Bowen’s Wharf incorporated total trash, recycling and compostable receptacles plus the support necessary to accomplish proper separation. On May 19, a night of oysters and champagne on the waterfront showcased eight different growers shucking under the lights and festival tents, which benefited the Ocean State Aquaculture Association and SSV Oliver Hazard Perry. Cloudy Bay wines, Captain Morgan Rum, Naked Turtle Rum, Don Julio Tequila, Ardbeg Single Malt Scotch, Tanqueray Gin, Belvedere Vodka and Rhode Island-made beers from Whalers Brewing were featured brands as well.

Photos by Laura Widness.28