The Food and Wine Festival is one of the best times in EPCOT, particularly at the WS. Be sure to bring MANY dollars!

Most samples are btween $1 and $5 with some being more (certain wines, etc.). You can run through quite a bit of cash without even knowing it.
There is plenty to do without doing the extra ticket items. There are numerous food demonstrations, wine tastings and beer tastings that do not cost extra. Be sure to get to these events very early though. There is a contingent of regulars who literally camp out at these no charge events.
The merchandise on offer is usually pretty neat. Sometimes it will be the newest of the new kitchen items, sometimes a nice wine. Surprisingly the wine and books on offer usually are not overpriced.
Last year I think one of the best buys was the glass counter protector that featured the same picture as the poster, and cost the same! It graces my counter and I get many compliments on it. I'm hoping they do the same again this year.
The recipes are more and more elusive. Where once they were available on index cards at each kiosk, then they were by request only (printed) then by email only, and finally last year, printed in a small book that cost $5.
Whereas it is still a good time, I think the previous years (1999 or so) were by far much better in terms of food selection and quality and choice of merchandise.
However, with each passing year, the guest chefs are more renowned.
Plan on having a wonderful time!