Wine Tasting

Tannins held their annual Fall Wine Event this past Thursday night at the Elmhurst Art Museum. It was the first one I ever missed (work had me out of town), and I was genuinely sad to be away. But from what I hear - - uh, where was everyone? A beautiful setting, over 100 wines to sample, food, music - and only about 70 people attended? Huh?

Was it the cost? Well, I'd have a hard time believing that $30 was a steep ticket in this town.
Was it the day and time? Not sure, but it's always been on a Thursday night. Maybe that's not the best time for an event.
Was it the memories of crowds from the past?

Bingo.

Word has it that many people who've attended in the past simply didn't want to bother with the shoulder-to-shoulder crowd, the long lines, the jostling for position to sample an ounce of Syrah.

So what to do? Can anyone think of a suitable alternative? A larger venue that would also provide the right evening atmosphere for a wine tasting? Two events to spread out the people? Fewer wines, thus fewer lines?

Anything?

I'd hate to see this event die. I think many of the wine lovers in town would hate to see the event die. But another tasting that sees less than 50% of the expected attendance (meaning, of course, doing it at a loss) could lead to cancellation of the event.

Ideas?