Explora gets into the ‘Science of Wine’ with Adult Night event

While Explora is billed as a museum and learning center offering fun for the entire family, it does on occasion offer events exclusively geared toward the older crowd.

One of the most popular of these Adult Nights is the “Science of Wine,” an annual event that teaches attendees about the intricacies of winemaking through a series of speakers and interactive activities.

“A lot of the public programming that we’re doing was really a call from our patrons,” Kena Boeckner, Explora rentals and events manager, said. “We had adults and parents that were in the building, and they were so impressed with a lot of our exhibits and wanted to be in the building without their kids.”

The “Science of Wine” represents an ideal time to do exactly that, with five wineries — Sheehan Winery, VARA Winery & Distillery, Jaramillo Vineyards, Noisy Water Winery and Casa Rondeña Winery — expected to be in attendance for an event that will attract up to 800 people in total.

This isn’t your typical festival where guests simply walk around sampling wine, however. Explora is about education — which is reflected in a number of hands-on exhibits and wine-related scientific activities at the event. For example, Boeckner says that one activity in the works will demonstrate how to open a bottle of wine by simply using heat. Another popular option has allowed visitors to literally paint with wine — a twist on the popular wine and paint nights seen throughout the city. Additionally, winery representatives will be giving a series of lectures on a variety of topics regarding the industry.

“We want to make it as educational as possible,” Boeckner said. “That’s why we’re an educational science center. Of course you get to walk around and enjoy all the booths, but you get to have a libation in your hand as you’re cruising through the museum, exploring, (and) playing with the exhibits.”

The “Science of Wine,” typically sells out each year, with 650 general admission and 150 VIP tickets available in total. VIP guests are admitted an hour early, which gives them access to the wineries and other exhibits before the rest of the public enters. This includes special wines, catered charcuterie and an activity.

As one might expect, the event attracts more than its fair share of oenophiles, but it’s also a good opportunity for newcomers to explore wine.

“A lot of times the wineries that participate, if you have a question for them, they love talking about anything that would be very educational,” Boeckner said. “Like how they’re making their wine; how do they get these flavors; how long it’s going to last; how it’s going to be bottled. So yeah, they do a lot of participating also.

“So when you walk in, it’s not like you’re (only) relying on us, but a lot of the times the wineries like to also be part of trying to educate.”

Guests can also get a bite from Three Sisters Kitchen, Explora’s on-site cafe, or satiate their sweet tooth with a treat from Creme & Crackle. Explora is planning two other “Science of” events for 2026: One will focus on beer, with approximately five breweries participating, and the other will center on tea and coffee — though Boeckner said spirits will be available at the latter event.