Christine and Bruce English (first and second left) and Jill Byles are all smiles at the opening of The Jamaica Pegasus Wines, Spirits and Food festival. - photos by Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

The clinking of wine glasses marked the start of The Jamaica Pegasus Wines, Spirits and Food festival on Tuesday evening.

Held on the hotel's premises, companies showcased wines of the alcoholic and non-alcoholic variety. Others offered nibbles of cakes and chocolates for the foodies and juices for the health conscious.

Booths included 1876 Wines, National Meats, Divine Concepts, Kraft, Tru-Juice, Patta Kake Bakers, Great Entertainment, HD Hopwood and Caribbean Producers Jamaica.

Recent challenges

The over 12-year-old event, according to the master of ceremonies Keith Brown, would not have been cancelled even in the face of the recent challenges the hotel faced when a section caught fire.

General manager of the hotel, Eldon Bremner, also said this was the launch of the All-Suites Royal Club, a new section of the hotel. The second phase of the construction will begin next month.

Background music

Michelle Gabbedon, a young violinist performed and while people milled around, background music was provided by Musical Credits.

Guests included Christopher Bovell, Ambassador Madge Barrett, Christine and Bruce English, Jill Byles, Dorothy Cowell and Bevon Morrison, among others.

Christopher Bovell (left), attorney, and Eldon Bremner, general manager of The Jamaica Pegasus hotel, chat at the opening of The Jamaica Pegasus Wines, Spirits and Food festival on Tuesday.

Eldon Bremner, Nancy Mclean (centre) and Ambassador Madge Barrett enjoying the Wines, Spirits and Food festival.