Pennsylvania Wine Society

Exploring the Rich History of Zinfandel - SOLD OUT
2024-02-16 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This event is SOLD OUT. Please plan early to join us in coming months!

It is a long way from the sunny Dalmatian coast of Croatia to the wine country of California – 6,162 miles (with a slight detour to Italy) to be precise – but that is how far we are going to trace the travels of the wine grape properly known as Crljenak Kaštelanski but which we call Zinfandel.
At one time Zinfandel was thought of as a native American grape. But plant geneticists have determined that it is of far older origins, as we will explore at the Hilton on February 16th. We now know that the grape we know as Zinfandel started out as Crljenak Kaštelanski (Yes, I learned to pronounce that, and we will have a brief lesson in Serbo-Croatian during the tasting.) on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia.
Our tasting begins with our “welcome” wine Old Black Peter, which is unavailable on the shelves of Pennsylvania’s “Fine Wines and Good Spirits” stores but a favorite of the Wall Street Journal Wine Club, about which I have written (and recommended) in a prior PWS blog post. Grown of fifty-year-old-plus vines, it comes in at 13.9% alcohol whereas many Zins come in at as much as 15%. It boasts multiple 90+ point ratings and gold medals, so we will be off to a good start.
Our first tasting wine, in keeping with the convention that one tastes white wines before red wines, will be a Rosé: Rosé of Primitivo Estate, 2022, deLorimier Winery, Alexander Valley, Sonoma. The so-called “white” Zinfandel outsells red Zinfandel six to one in the United States. Actually a blush or pink wine, white Zinfandel is usually sweet or at least semi-sweet. Why take a red grape and try to make it white? It all goes back to the 1970s. Americans demanded semi-sweet white wines and vintners with acres of old vine Zinfandel had a problem. They certainly didn’t want to plow over 100-year-old vines and plant white wine grapes. The solution was to make a rosé or so-called white Zinfandel. We managed to find a rare dry example.
Turning to the reds, we start in Croatia with a Crljenak Kaštelanski. Very little Crljenak Kaštelanski is exported to the United States – and as far as we can tell none is made available to Pennsylvanians through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.
Despite the scarcity, the Pennsylvania Wine Society has managed to obtain a few bottles of a very special Dubrovački Prodrumi Crljenak bottled in 2016. This eight-year-old 90-point red (Wine Spectator) is ready to go and will be the starting point for our exploration of the Crljenak Kaštelanski and its migrations. We will explore how technique and terroir create a different red from the Zinfandels we are used to. Having just tasted Old Saint Peter, we can compare the effects of terroir and winemaking style from both ends of the grape’s journey.
Crljenak Kaštelanski did not migrate directly to America from Croatia but made a stop in Italy, specifically the Puglia and Apulia regions of Southern Italy, aka “the boot” of Italy. There the peripatetic varietal changed its name to Primitivo. The name Primitivo does not mean “primitive,” as one might guess based on its similarity to the English word, but rather prime or “first to ripen” from the Latin “primativus”. (I know, Serbo-Croatian and Latin lessons are a bit much for a wine tasting but bear with me.)
We will taste a 2021 Poggio Anima Lilith Primitivo and, again, will call upon all of you to determine how terroir and technique impact taste. Again, we can compare the effects of terroir and winemaking style.
Finally, we come to California. More than 100 years ago Italian immigrants moved to California and brought their grape vines with them. (One alternative version of the story has the vines starting out on the East Coast and then making their way to California during the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855.) For some reason, during the Atlantic and continental crossing, the name changed to Zinfandel (there are still a few California examples that go by the name Primitivo as we saw above). Appropriately, we will start with a wine that boasts that it is created from 100-year-old vines: Cline Family Cellars “Ancient Vines” 2021 Contra Costa. Since 2018 the vineyards and winery became Certified California Sustainable and Sonoma County Sustainable.
Having established Zinfandel’s origins and tasted the product of some 100-year-old vines, we will compare three modern bottlings:
7 Deadly Zins, Old Vine Zinfandel, 2020, Lodi, California (hint: one of my favorites). Crafted by a family with roots in Lodi since the 1850s, and grown using sustainable practices, this wine is blended with a small amount of Petite Syrah and coming in at a healthy 15% alcohol, which comes through on the finish.
Since we are tasting a Zin from Lodi we should mention here that Lodi calls itself “the Zinfandel capital of the world.” Briefly, why does Lodi make this boast? Located between San Francisco Bay and the Sierra Nevada mountains, at the end of the Sacramento River, Lodi features a classic Mediterranean climate and many of the very old Zinfandel vines we have discussed were planted there. Some date to 1888! These old vines produce small fruit in limited numbers, resulting in rich, bold, and complex wines.
Next up: The Federalist, Lodi, 2019. The name and the label are intended as an homage to George Washington, and the wine is crafted from grapes grown on the edge of Dry Creek, just a mile from the famed Russian River. I just have to show you the vineyard’s promo:
In the spirit of George Washington and our Founding Fathers, this wine offers bold and original expressions of this truly American grape. This wine connects the founding fathers love of wine, some of whom had vineyards of their own, with this historic appellation known for its old vine Zinfandel. The result is a revolutionary wine.
Clearly, whoever wrote that PR piece had been sampling The Federalist! We will see if George would approve.
When tasting our final wine, Joel Gott, 2018, St. Helena, Napa, see if you agree with one taster who described the flavor profile is “all in your face”. I’m not sure what that means, but I guess we will find out. The wine is aged in both new American and used French oak barrels.
As a final note, we plan to make this tasting a bit more interactive, asking you to tell us what you think in a more systematic fashion. Don’t worry, there are no wrong answers! “I like it,” is a perfectly acceptable response! In what will be a review for some, we will suggest a tasting methodology in which we look at color, legs, aroma, taste, and finish. Tasting scoring sheets will be provided to provide a framework for analysis and to help you remember which wines you like the best.
Hilton’s Master Chef has put together a hearty cheese plate to accompany our wine tasting. Please inform us of any food allergies well in advance in the notes section of your reservations or email the Treasurer with concerns.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, February 13th! You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Member —$85
Patron —$80
Nonmember —$105

Cadenza - A Winemaker's Dream
2024-03-15 19:00 - 21:30 | Cadenza Vineyards, Brogue PA, 3475 Sechrist Road, Brogue, PA, 17309, United States
Cadenza Vineyard wines speak from forty years of growing grapes at one special place. Just take that in for a moment. History… commitment… passion…quality.
Our special Cadenza adventure is Friday, March 15th at 7 p.m. Deadline for reservations is March 8th so don’t delay! We are more than halfway to sold out at this writing.
Join Cadenza owner, Carl Helrich for a special library and barrel tasting event exploring how his wines have developed through time augmented by the Cadenza success story as told in Carl’s entertaining and engaging style. Repeat participants say they never tire of hearing the Cadenza story or tasting the. wines as they develop.
This sort of tasting is only offered privately at the winery. The eight wines included in our PWS event follow, sprinkled with Carl’s comments.
2017 Cadenza Chardonnay
Our second “Reserve Chardonnay” released under our Cadenza Vineyards brand. These Chardonnays are grown here at Allegro in our estate vineyard originally planted in 1973. The vineyard is comprised of roughly 9 different clones of Chardonnay, every one of which seems to ripen at a different time with different characteristics. The French call this a “field blend” of sorts, and I believe it is the key to the signature Allegro Chardonnay profile.
Our Chardonnays are where I feel that I have finally dialed in the right winemaking style and process to allow for the best and most appropriate voice from this vineyard. The fruit is barrel-fermented at cooler temperatures, then aged on its lees with weekly stirring—batonnage—for the first six months of its life.
2014 Allegro Reserve Chardonnay (Chardonnay 100%)
This is the most balanced release of our Reserve Chardonnay as 2014 displayed enough warming days for peak ripeness while retaining an amazing freshness. It is one of the most Burgundian wines we have created, and is a great example of a wine just starting to peak in its drinkability. It still shows youth along with a knitting together of its respective parts. This wine really opens up at warmer temperatures, being more directed to red wine drinkers.
2021 Cadenza Bridge (43% Merlot/42% Cabernet Franc/15% Petit Verdot)
The 2021 Bridge is one of the most balanced and refined wines that we have bottled in the past few years. Usually my style is more forceful and abrasive, but the 2021 Bridge shows a refinement and balance that I am usually not capable of. It’s almost European in its sensibility, while at the same time being approachable at this very young age. The Merlot brings darker fruit and body to the wine, while the Franc brightens the flavors and adds depth to the aromatics. They play nicely together while the Petit Verdot in the background holds it all together with its structure. This one of our most hedonistic Bridge offerings ever, reminiscent of the 2017, 2007 and 2006. Very Right Bank Bordeaux (for you traditionalists out there), but as with all of our wines–in the immortal words of John Crouch—”It’ll pay you back if you hold on to it!”
2017 Cadenza Bridge (Merlot 36%/Cabernet Franc 34%/Cabernet Sauvignon 22%/Petit Verdot 7%)
The 2017 was aged 19 months in new French oak barrels and then pulled from barrels in the summer of 2019. The wine was bottled unfiltered and unfined in early September with 2” corks. The final total was only 134 cases of 750mL bottles and 6 cases of 1.5L magnum bottles.
Nice deep colors and a rich aroma of fruit and oak make this a wine to savor. The structure of the wine is firm yet supple, making it perfect for pairing with beef dishes. This wine still needs some time to come around fully (even though it’s drinking nicely right now). Maximum enjoyment probably come sometime from now to 2026.
2013 Allegro Cadenza (Cabernet Sauvignon 73% / Merlot 22% / Petit Verdot 5%)
The miraculous 2013 vintage will be one that I remember for a long, long time. It yielded four reserve-caliber wines for us, including this one. With this wine, we returned to the Cadenzas of old with lots of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. The tannins are not as searing as John’s were in the young wines, but the structure is very present and its age-ability should be significant.
2005 Allegro Cadenza (Merlot 59% / Cabernet Sauvignon 27% / Cabernet Franc 14%)
A Merlot in Bordeaux terms. Using comparatively primitive production methods and minimal handling, this wine is still a sleeper just starting to wake up. The primary fruit is fading, but the cocoa tannins are too enticing to make waiting possible. The inherent spiciness and perfume just suck me in. It’s finally starting to hit its stride and land where I wanted it to. The last bottle I enjoyed was just short of mind-blowing in its inherent complexities.
2023 will be the vintage that sets the new benchmark for wine in Pennsylvania. With an early budbreak and the driest May on record (less than a 1/4″ of rain) followed by a balanced season, the vines from our Cadenza Vineyard finally showed their potential. The whites exhibit wonderful purity of fruit while the reds show off deep rich colors that speak to their underlying power. These are wines for the ages. Taste two Barrel samples—2023 Chardonnay and 2023 Merlot (straight from the barrel if we can figure out how to do it logistically).
To focus more fully on the wines in this library tasting, simple cheese and cracker nibbles will accompany the wines. It is strongly suggested that you eat a normal size dinner prior to the event.
Also plan your Friday travel time to easily gather by 6:50 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Event starts at 7:00 p.m. at Cadenza Vineyards, 475 Sechrist Road, Brogue, Pennsylvania 17309. Phone: 717-501-1413.
This event is limited to 20 attendees. Reservations close Friday, March 8th or, more likely, when sold out. You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Member —$80
Patron —$75
Nonmember —$100

Credo European Portfolio - Germany, Austria, and Hungary
2024-04-12 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Blues Brothers? Nope. One physicist, one engineer. Do they have something to do with wine? Yep. Pictured are Matthew Goss and Daniel Satola from Credo Importers hanging out in the scenic vineyards of Hungary. Not a bad second career gig! All you need do is chat with them to see that they clearly bring great passion to the business.
Please join PWS on Friday, April 12th, to learn about the wine venture and savor specialty wines from Credo’s Central Europe portfolio. Enjoy wines representative of terroir and crafted by artisan winemakers paired with regional style foods.
Credo brings something unique to the table that veteran PWS members and wine afficionados value above all else—flawless, organic, authentic wines on the palate.
The regions represented—Germany, Austria and Hungary—bring centuries old viticulture and winemaking traditions that astute wine tasters recognize to be some of the best in the world.
If you understand the romance of these wines, you’ve already reserved your seats. But if you’re not one of those; and, unfamiliar wine names scare you away, WAIT—read on. These are very approachable, likeable wines, from familiar grapes such as Riesling. Friendly, right? We know you’ll find the other grapes equally approachable and the wines delightful.
Daniel Satola, founder and co-owner, founded Credo Imports with the vision of creating a family-owned company
to import and market small production fine wines from family-owned European producers. Here’s the business philosophy: “We fight back against the power of the mass-produced and distributed to create space for winemakers who may not otherwise be able to voice their passions, conscience, and values. These winemakers’ voices reflect the authenticity of their wines and the integrity of their land—speaking not for the wines, but through them. Our goal is to create demand for our products. In doing so, we also create demand for our producers’ ideals and sustain a process where quality can rule at the expense of volume.“
Here is the wine list from sparkling through red and dry to a sweet dessert wine finish. There may also be a surprise or two!

Play Rose Feind Hungary 2022
Wild Rose Pet Nat Riesling Kamptal 2022
Eck Riesling Pfalz Trocken 2021
Meyer Grauerburgunder Loss Pfalz Trocken 2020
Lajver Incognito Kekfrankos Hungary 2022
Hirt-Gebhardt Mia Lou Roter Riesling Rheingau 2022
Gebert Scheurebe Rheinhessen 2022
Manderschied Gewürztraminer Pfalz 2020
Vylyan Macska Portugieser Hungary 2022
Aichinger Roter Traminer Kamptal 2021

Many will recognize these wine regions, but perhaps not the producers because local stores show mostly mass produced wines. This is a learning experience in “You get what you pay for.” as my mother often pointed out. This event is worth every penny.
Hilton Chef Justin Godfrey chose three small plates to pair with the wines, promising a great palate experience. Those small plates are:
Smoked Trout Brandade with Rye Toast and Chive Oil
Spinach Spätzle in Rosemary Brown Butter
Pretzel-crusted Pork and Potato Croquette w/Pickled Red Cabbage
And we’ve added Apple Strudel for dessert!
Please advise of food sensitivities by emailing the Treasurer with concerns at the time you make your reservations. Reservation deadline is Tuesday, April 9th.
Appropriately the Credo credo is “To share unique wines from all over the world with wine-loving people.” We’ll have the wine waiting—you bring the wine-loving people!
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, April 9th . You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Member —$110
Patron —$105
Nonmember —$130

SOLD OUT Fabulous French Whites
2024-05-17 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This event is SOLD OUT! We are taking a wait list. If you want to be added to the wait list, please contact the Treasurer via email.
Vive la France, where the lavender grows next to the vineyard! What a beautiful spring backdrop to introduce our May 17th event. Fair warning—die hard red drinkers may convert after this experience! We are excited to welcome back Kevin Ostrowski to explore some of the iconic French white anticipating summer wine tables, picnics and deck parties where you can serve them for guests to enjoy.
Fair warning—die hard red drinkers may convert after this experience!
We are excited to welcome back Kevin Ostrowski to explore some of the iconic French whites; anticipating summer wine tables, picnics and deck parties where you can serve them for guests to enjoy. Kevin is a well-known and respected certified wine judge, sommelier, and wine educator. His exploration of French whites promises a great event!
With Kevin’s guidance, we sought out representative whites from major French growing regions. Here’s the list of regions represented. You’ll see we’re starting with Champagne—so arrive early for the greeting wine!

Champagne where since the 1600s cellar masters focused on cutting-edge wine production and the popularization of sparkling wines.
Burgundy, where Cistercian monks first planted grapevines in walled plots called clos. Burgundy is considered the benchmark of quality.
Loire Valley where a cooler-climate growing area, is an exceptional place to find lean, racy white wines.
Bordeaux where ancient Romans first planted vineyards to launch what’s now the most popular wine region in the world. And it’s not all about the reds.
Rhone Valley where evidence of quality wines dates back to the first century and terraced vineyards originally dug by the Romans still exist.
Languedoc where the conformism of Parisian bureaucracy goes hand in hand with the creative spirit of pure liberalism. Almost anything goes!
Savoie where proximity to endless mountain ranges and crisp bodies of water give way to acidic wines, perfect for food pairing.
Alsace where Germanic influence and strong emphasis on white wines distinguish France’s most unique viticultural region.

We could spend months to years reviewing French wine regions and tasting their great wines. Wine is an integral part of French culture, and wine making processes important to them. Thus, the number of wines available is staggering—and we have but one evening. However, we are confident that our selections offer a great representation of the iconic wines for which each region is known.
The wines will be paired with small food plates designed by Hilton Chef, Justin Godfrey. Food accompaniments include the following:

Halibut Gravlax with dill, baby bell pepper, caper, and pickled shallot
Wild mushroom tart with fennel, Point Reyes blue cheese, and granola
Cheddar Gougères with Prosciutto, peach, and basil

Move something else on your calendar to make room in May for this one! Our event is Friday, May 17th at 7 p.m. Hilton Harrisburg.
Please inform early of any food sensitivities by email to the Treasurer.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, May 14th. You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Member —$95
Patron —$90
Nonmember —$115

DEADLINE to REGISTER for Oregon... and Neighbors
2024-06-11 00:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.

Oregon... and Neighbors
2024-06-14 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
On Friday evening, June 14th at 7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg, we will be experiencing a special event featuring nine carefully selected wines from Oregon, Northern California and Washington.
We will be pouring four white wines and five red wines representing some of the best wine appellations in the country. Our whites are from the Willamette Valley in Oregon, the Russian River Valley in Northern California and the Columbia Valley in Washington.
Our reds will include a comparison of Pinot Noirs from different appellations in the Willamette Valley. We will also compare Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley, California and Walla Walla Valley in Washington.
Our fifth red will be a full-body blend from Northern California that includes six different varietals, some of which, are rare. In addition, we will accompany these magnificent wines with five select premium cheeses that make excellent pairings!
Wine List – WHITES
Lange Estate – Classique Pinot Gris 2022 Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon. 100% Pinot Gris. Wine Enthusiast 91 Points.
This classic Pinot Gris style results in a light, crisp, approachable wine true to varietal character with beautifully balanced acidity. This wine shows citrus, honeydew melon, and orange blossom on the nose while the palate displays notes of fresh, green apple, ripe pears, Meyer lemon and lime zest. – Winemaker’s Notes.
Cheese Pairing: Young Gouda.

Stags Leap – Sauvignon Blanc 2022 – Napa Valley AVA, California. 100% Sauvignon Blanc. James Suckling 92 Points.
The 2022 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc is bright, crisp, and refreshing with aromatic notes of white peach, lemon verbena, lime peel, and white elderflower. More subtle notes of brioche toast and biscuit crumb support the lively fruit (a nod to the subtle oak influence) alongside a delicate mineral flintiness. The palate is rich, creamy,
and round with notes of Meyer lemon, green apple, lime pith, cassis bud, and lychee. There is a zippy, racy acidity throughout, creating a mouthwatering texture and lively backbone that carries all the way through to the long, lip-smackingly crisp finish. – Winemaker’s Notes.
Cheese Pairing: Goat Cheese.

Dutton Ranch – The Calling 2021 – Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma, California. 100% Chardonnay. James Suckling 91 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 90 Points.
Intensely aromatic with notes of lemon curd, honeysuckle and white rose petals. Crisp acidity is balanced with subtle French oak on the palate. Flavors of ripe melon, lemon and baked brioche combine for a long, elegant finish. – Winemaker”s Notes.
Cheese Pairing: Havarti.

Portlandia – Pinot Gris 2021 – Columbia Valley AVA, Washington (70%), Willamette Valley AVA, Oregon (30%). 96% Pinot Gris, 3% Riesling, 1% Viognier. Wine Enthusiast 91 Points. Vivino Top 25 Oregon Pinot Gris of 2021.
Well balanced citrus aromas and flavors, crisp and versatile. Aromas of pear, lemon and hints of lite candied ginger on the nose. Mostly lemon tempered by notes of lime zest and melon on the palate. A delightful Pinot Gris. – Johan Lubbe.
Cheese Pairing: Goat Cheese.

Wine List – REDS

Ken Wright Cellars – Appellation Series 2021 – Eola-Amity Hills AVA, Oregon. 100% Pinot Noir. Wine Enthusiast 95 Points, Wine Spectator 93.
This is a Goldilocks special, because the fruit, alcohol, acidity and tannins are just right. Rainier cherry and lavender aromas are joined by smaller notes of leather and a new cedar chest drawer. The wine’s cassis, orange pith and smoky Lapsang souchong tea flavors float on a soft, smooth texture. — Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast.
Cheese Pairing: Goat Cheese.

Domaine Drouhin Oregon – Dundee Hills Pinot Noir 2018 – Dundee Hills AVA, Oregon. 100% Pinot Noir. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 94+ Points, Wine Enthusiast 94 Points.
Our 2018 Dundee Hills is complex and structured, a beautiful combination of flavor, intensity, and backbone. Subtle notes of rose petal, raspberry and dark cherries lead into layered flavors of sour cherries, cranberry, black tea, and plum. There is an extraordinary balance between the fine tannins and energizing lift of vibrant red fruit and acidity. This is a wine that will be exciting to follow as it passes the 5, 10, and 15-year marks. – Winemaker’s Notes.
Cheese Pairing: Gruyere.

Girard Winery – Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – Napa Valley AVA, California. 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 5% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot. Wine Enthusiast 93 Points.
Well-built and deep in flavor, this full-bodied wine is a great value for a Napa Cab. It shows a calm strength and emerging complexity. The wine blankets deep, dark violet and blackcurrant flavors in fine-grained tannins. — Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast.
Cheese Pairing: Piave.

Seven Hills Winery – Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 – Walla Walla Valley AVA, Washington. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Wine Enthusiast 92 Points, James Suckling 92 Points.
This dark crimson gem is a fantastic value. Aromas of black cherries, violets, dark chocolate and bone broth are worth the bottle price all by themselves. Raspberry, vanillin and cedar flavors are backed by grippy tannins and brisk acidity. — Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast.
Cheese Pairing: Piave.

Three Wine Company – Field Blend 2018 – Contra Costa County, California.
39% Carignan, 26% Matero, 17% Zinfandel, 11% Petit Sirah, 5% Alicante Bouschet, 2% Black Malvoisie.
The “field blend” contingent of this wine adds structure, color, cherry, and black fruit flavors. There is a deep concentration of ripe black cherries and spice with a minerality (earthy berry) sneaking through. The mouth-feel is rich and balanced with a lingering peppery finish. – Winemaker’s Notes.
This is a special PWS wine event that features wines from America’s Pacific Northwest; arguably the greatest wine region in the country. You will not want to miss this exceptional tasting. Join us for an evening enjoying some great wines with excellent premium cheese pairing selections.

Please inform us early of any food sensitivities via email to the Treasurer.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, June 11th.
Member —$95
Patron —$90
Nonmember —$115

Portugal on the Greens - Outdoor Informal Event
2024-07-14 12:00 - 15:00 | Greystone Brew House, 303 Golf Club Ave, Dillsburg, PA, 17019, United States
Join us at noon on Sunday, July 14th for a
Portuguese-inspired lunch, paired with highly regarded and flavorful Portuguese wines on the Fairway Terrace at Greystone Brew House, located at the Range End Golf Course in Dillsburg, PA. The wines, food, and location make this a truly unique social event.
We’ve selected three different white wines, three unique red wines and a late-bottled vintage Port to showcase the broad range of Portuguese wines and to please any oenophile. This often-overlooked wine region is worth exploring and PWS has arranged this event to do just that.
The three white wines we’ll be tasting demonstrate the diversity that Portugal’s wines have to offer.
No Portuguese wine tasting is complete without a Vinho Verde. Ours is Regueiro Trajadura Alvarinho 2021, a blend of Alvarinho and Trajadura grapes from the Vinho Verde region of northern Portugal. This wine is fresh and fruity with a nice minerality. Expect sensations of apple, pear and citrus in this wine.
From the Tejo region in central Portugal, Lagoalva Branco Tejo 2022 combines aromatic Fernão Pires grapes with Arinto and Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect summer wine offering with palate-pleasing tropical fruit and citrus notes.
Herdade Do Esporao Reserva 2021 (Wine Enthusiast 92 points) is an almost equal blend of Antao Vaz, Arinto, and Roupeiro grapes from Alentejo in south-central Portugal. This organic wine displays bright notes of citrus and mint with hints of white pepper and nutmeg.
Moving on to the reds, we’ll enjoy three distinct and excellent red wines from different Portugal regions.
Quinta do Crasto Douro Superior 2016 (Wine Spectator 92, Wine Advocate 91) is a dry, light-bodied red from the World Heritage designated Douro Valley. Crafted from a blend of Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional and Sousão and aged for 12 months in 35% new French oak, the wine presents both an earthiness and vibrant acidity.
From DOC Do Tejo, Pinhal Da Torre Resoluto 2015 is comprised of Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Franca and Trincadiera. This well-regarded wine was produced using traditional methods with slight maceration and no filtration aging for 18 months in French oak barrels. Ripe red fruits with notes of cocoa and spices are rounded out with a good acidity and dry tannins.
Alentejo’s red wine entry is Vinha da Coutada Velha Red Alentejano 2020 (Wine Enthusiast 92). This Wine Enthusiast “Best Buy” wine exhibits black and red fruits with hints of chocolate and mocha and refined tannins.
Finishing off the event and perfectly paired with the chef-prepared chocolate dessert, will be Warre’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2010. This Port is also rated 92 points by Wine Enthusiast and we’re sure you’ll agree with the reviewer’s assessment—this Port is refined, mature and ready to enjoy!
We’ll enjoy the wines and great food on the terrace overlooking the golf course for a perfect summer afternoon. (Don’t worry – there is covering should a summer shower decide to visit us that day!)
Chef Jason created a menu designed to pair with Portuguese wines that includes the following:

Portuguese Salt Cod Fritter accompanied by Peri-Peri Sauce

Heirloom Tomatoes with Cucumber, Grilled Red Onion, Roasted Peppers with Valdeón Blue Cheese Dressing

Roasted Pork Tenderloin and Red wine-braised Chorizo, Yellow Potatoes, Garlic and Kale

Chocolate Mousse with Chocolate Salami (think cookie)

Please inform us early of any food sensitivities by sending email to the Treasurer.
You do not want to miss this event, so sign up today. Reservation deadline is Sunday, July 7th. Make reservations via the Shoppe Page on this website.
Member —$105
Patron —$100
Nonmember —$125

The Riedel Glassware Experience
2024-09-20 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Now RIEDEL can also be your everyday wine glass!
Most of us hesitate to pull out the RIEDEL glass or decanter on a weeknight… time, care, energy level, and many other barriers. And still , if you open a good bottle of wine, don’t you pine to smell and taste all that it has to offer?
Problem solved! Enter the RIEDEL Performance line of glassware.
With three generations of experience in creating functional, grape varietal specific glassware, RIEDEL Performance is the result of 10th and 11th generations Georg and Maximilian Riedel’s drive to continually improve on what has come before.
This technologically advanced collection is the first RIEDEL series to feature bowls with a light optic impact. Detailed research by the Riedel family, aimed at improving the organoleptic wine experience, revealed that increasing the inner surface area of the glass had a positive impact on the perception of the bouquet and flavor of the wine.
This unique optical effect not only adds a pleasing visual aspect to the bowl, but also expands the surface area, allowing the wine to open up and fully show every aroma and subtle nuance.
Consisting of lightweight, durable and dishwasher-safe shapes, RIEDEL Performance glasses are executed by machine in sparkling crystal glass.
With fine stems and large stable bases, the range also includes new bowl shapes for Cabernet, Chardonnay and Riesling that, when combined with the optic effect, deliver ultimate wine enjoyment.
RIEDEL Performance is a must-have glass collection for all wine lovers.
Join us Friday, September 20th at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg when we welcome RIEDEL Company’s Susan Durbrow who will guide us through glass comparisons between RIEDEL and the Hilton glassware (or bring your own favorite wine glass to compare). Great learning!
If the science doesn’t convince you that a glass really makes that much difference—join us to find out. And if you already know, I know you’ll be there!
If you have other RIEDEL glasses—but didn’t get the education to use them to best advantage AND care for them appropriately—you need to be there too.
There will be nice wines—but no food—to ensure undistracted, serious glassware testing! Thus—please eat dinner prior to the event. We will be tasting white and red wines.
This event has always been popular AND extremely informative! We rarely offer this event due to the coordination work, and expense involved. This event and the glassware is well worth the investment. If you do nothing else to advance your personal wine knowledge and enjoyment this fall, attend this event.
Reservations include a set of four different varietal RIEDEL Performance glasses that are yours to keep after the event.
And should you want more glassware, a unique decanter, or other bar ware—usually the case following these tastings—you may order anything from the RIEDEL catalog through PWS and take advantage of our PWS Authorized Distributor offers to save!
If your wine could choose a glass, it would be RIEDEL.
Reservation deadline is September 17th and the event is widely advertised so don’t wait—just do it.
Member —$195
Patron —$190
Nonmember —$245

The Softer Side of Syrah
2025-02-28 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
After a very cold January, I hope you are ready to kick the winter blues and get back to wine tastings!
We are starting off 2025 with the Softer Side of Syrah and will be tasting nine old and new world Syrahs on February 28th, 7 PM at the Hilton. We will start off with New World Syrahs and then finish the tasting with Old World Syrahs from the Rhone Region of France.
Old World wines often have a lighter body, higher acidity, and lean towards more mineral and earthy flavors. Grapes grown in cooler climates, like those found in many Old World regions, have a slower ripening process, which helps retain pleasing acid levels and encourages the development of complex flavors. New World wines, in contrast, are often produced in warmer climates. They tend to be fuller-bodied, lower in acidity, and exhibit more pronounced fruity flavors.
The following is the listing of wines we will be tasting.
Portlandia Syrah Sparkling Rosé NV; Columbia Valley, Washington. Non-vintage 91Points – Wine Enthusiast
Portlandia Rosé 2022; Columbia Valley, Washington. This was a PA Chairman’s Selection wine. 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast
Los Vascos Cromas Gran Reserva Syrah 2019; Colchagua Valley, Chile. 92 Points – James Suckling and 91 Points – Wine Spectator
Borsao Zarihs Shiraz 2018; Campo de Brija, Spain. 92 Points – Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, 91 Points – James Suckling
Luke Syrah 2020; Columbia Valley, Washington. 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast and Wine Advocate
Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône 2022; Côtes du Rhône Region, France; 90 Points – Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate. Wine Spectator included this wine in their top 10 values for 2023.
Michaels St. Jemms – Signature 2020; Crozes-Hermitage Region, France; 91 Points -Wine Enthusiast, 90 Points – Wine Advocate
Maiso Brotte La Rollande 2022; Crozes-Hermitage Region, France; 92 Points – James Suckling, 91 Points – Wilford Wong
Francois Billard L’Appel Des Sereines Syrah, 2020; Collines Rhodaniennes IGP France; 92 – Points Wine Spectator
The following mouth-watering small plate food pairings prepared by Hilton Chefs will accompany our tasting.

Grilled Eggplant, Burrata, Heirloom Tomato with Black Pepper Basil Honey
Braised Pork Belly with Smoked Cheddar Grits
Grilled Wagyu Beef Ribs with Cherry Barbecue Sauce and Scallion Salad

Please inform us early of any food sensitivities by sending email to the Treasurer.
Mark your calendar and make plans now to attend this event to be surprised and delighted by these wines.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, February 25th.
For Reservations – go to the Shoppe Page of this webite.
Members—$95
Patrons—$90
Nonmembers—$115

Women in Wine Luncheon - Limited SEATS Available
2025-03-23 12:00 - 14:30 | Greystone Public House, 2120 Colonial Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17112, United States
This event was sold out but had two late cancellations. Contact the Treasurer to check availability.
Mark noon March 23rd on your calendar to celebrate International Women’s History Month with the Pennsylvania Wine Society’s wine luncheon at Greystone Public House featuring wines from wineries in which women play prominent roles. Chef Jason Viscount has developed another stellar menu that will pair perfectly with the unique wines that have been selected for this event.
You’ll be greeted with a taste of Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace Reserve Brut. This 92-point sparkler is 80% Pinot Blanc and 20% Pinot Auxerrois from a wine house that boasts two women winemakers, Corinne Perez, who has been the head winemaker since 2020, and Hélène Georges.
This will be followed by Domane Wachau Federspiel Terrassen Grüner Veltliner 2023, a 91-point wine from the Wachau region of Austria. Domane Wachau has numerous women among their vignerons (wine growers in the cooperative that supplies the grapes) and management teams. Patricia Sánchez Moro, oenologist and general manager of Bodegas Emilio Moro, produced our next wine, the Emilio Moro Polvorete 2023 (92 points). This Godello from Spain is a fresh white wine that will dazzle you! These two wines will be paired with our first course of Roasted Asparagus with Goat Cheese and Walnut Dressing.
We’ll then travel to Argentina for Santa Julia La Oveja Torrontes Natural 2023 (92 points) production of which is not just overseen by but actually named for Julia Zuccardi. This fragrant, dry white wine is produced with minimal intervention in the vineyard and cellar.
From Italy, we’ll next taste Elena Walch Lagrein 2022 (90 points), a subtly spiced wine with a complex bouquet, crafted by a winery run by not one but three women, the distinguished Elena Walch and her daughters, Julia and Karoline. These wines will be complemented by the second course of Burrata and Brown Butter Roasted Pears. Yum!
Austrian wine lovers need no introduction to Heidi Schrock and her award-winning wines and at the event we’ll be tasting Heidi Schrock & Sohn Kulm Blaufankisch 2022, a medium-bodied red with notes of cherries, plums and cinnamon.
California’s contribution to the tasting is a 92-point Petite Sirah, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Petite Sirah 2021. Shannon Ridge is co-owned by Angie Shannon with Carolina Vargas as wine maker. This rustic red with notes of dark berries and pepper along with the Blaufrankisch will provide a perfect pairing to our earthy main of Porcini Mushroom Risotto with Fried Artichoke hearts.
We’ll finish off with a dark chocolate flourless dessert to go with Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Superiore 2020 (92 points), an intense red from “the Soul of Lugano and the Heart of Valipolcella.” At the Zenato winery, Nadia Zenato oversees communication and sales and contributes her talents and love of the art of winemaking to harvesting grapes and barrel tasting wines.
We can’t wait to see you at 12 noon, March 23, at Greystone Public House, 2120 Colonial Road, Harrisburg!
Please inform us of any food sensitivities early by emailing the Treasurer.
You’ll definitely want to join us for this brunch wine tasting to learn more about these special wines and the women behind them.
Registration deadline is Sunday, March 16th and seating is limited so sign up today!
For Reservations – go to the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$100
Patrons—$95
Nonmembers—$120

All Around Riesling
2025-04-11 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Riesling originates from the Rhine Valley where documented history of the grape exists as far back as 1435. Germany still remains the most copious and heralded producer of the grape, and German Riesling is the benchmark for the varietal worldwide. German Riesling personifies the archetype of an Old World, cool-climate style wine. German Riesling typically exhibits racy acidity and penetrating minerality—a smokiness, stoniness or earthiness—that lends complexity to even the most basic bottlings.
From dry to lusciously sweet, Riesling offers a spectrum of styles that cater to diverse palates and is “loved and respected” by wine enthusiasts and wine industry professionals alike.
While some Rieslings are undeniably sweet, believing that all Rieslings fit that description could not be further from the truth. The range of styles crafted from this versatile grape is vast, including expressions that are bone dry and well balanced with both acidity and natural sugars. Due to a lack of tannins, most white wines aren’t known to withstand long times in the cellar. However, Riesling is solidly structured with bracing acidity and low pH, as well as flavor compounds and phenolics that develop brilliantly with age. Tasted young, Riesling is among the most explosively aromatic of wines, profoundly floral and fruity, concentrated with zingy peach, apple or citrus flavors. With age, these primary characteristics shift towards preserved or dried fruit and flower, and savory nuances of caramel and earth appear. Mouth-watering!
While acidity, alcohol and sugar levels remain constant, well-aged Riesling often gains textural richness and density. Sweeter styles even seem to shift drier on the palate as sugar molecules polymerize. Of course, not all Riesling is meant to be aged, but exceptionally well-made Rieslings, particularly those fermented and matured in traditional oak casks and stored correctly, can evolve marvelously for decades. Seize this rare opportunity to taste 24-year-old Rieslings in April!
Our April 11th event 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg will unlock the whole fascinating world of Riesling, exploring its different styles and the factors that influence them. Our event will allow you to experience German Rieslings from dry to sweet and from young to old, including eight fine Rieslings from the Credo Imports Portfolio and four special library wines from Germany’s phenomenal 2001 vintage.
We are excited to welcome back Matt Goss from Credo Imports to present the first eight luxury wines. PWS Board Director, Barry Hixon, is generously donating the library wines as a thank you and give-back gesture to PWS for the member benefits he’s enjoyed over the years. Barry will present these 2001 vintage wines.
This in-depth study of Riesling’s amazing versatility will be accompanied by food pairings from the Hilton Chefs to include: Salmon and Crab Cake with Lemon Pear Chutney, Spicy Stir Fry with Roasted Pork Loin, and Peach Tart with Apple Caramel Compote and Smoked Sea Salt. Please inform us early of any food sensitivities by sending email to the Treasurer.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, April 8th. Seats are limited due to wine availability. This event is offered at special savings thanks to donations from Credo Imports and Mr. Hixson.
Members—$125
Patrons—$120
Nonmembers—$145
For Reservations – go to the Shoppe Page of this webite.

DEADLINE to Register for Viaggio del Vino
2025-05-13 00:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Purchase reservations from the Shoppe Page of this website.

Viaggio del Vino
2025-05-16 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
On Friday evening, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg, we will be experiencing a special event featuring nine carefully selected wines from Italy. We will be pouring four white wines and five red wines representing eight different wine appellations from five different Italian regions (states). Our wine journey in Italy will cover Piedmont, Lombardy and Veneto in the north and Tuscany and Umbria in central Italy.
The Wine List—Whites
Lungarotti Umbria Vermentino IGT 2023. The Greeting Wine. Umbria. Vermentino is high in acidity which makes it crisp and refreshing. The dominant flavor is lemon with pear and green apple. It is often said, “If you like Sauvignon Blanc, you’ll love Vermentino.” This wine was produced with free-run juice. 100% Vermentino.
Bersano Gavi DOCG del Commune di Gavi, Mirage 2023. Piedmont. Most Italians believe the greatest expression of Gavi comes from the hills around the commune of Gavi. Most American Gavi drinkers agree. The fruit for Mirage is hand picked from the finest selection in the vineyard. This wine is a bright straw yellow with greenish reflections. It has a fragrant nose, with refined floral notes and intense fruity scents of citrus and peach. Mirage is fresh, harmonious and elegant with a full and delicate body. The wine has a fruity and persistent finish. The Cortese grape is native to Piedmont. 100% Cortese. Wine Enthusiast 93 points.
Lungarotti Umbria Grechetto IGT 2023. Umbria. Grechetto is a grape native to Umbria. It is largely unknown outside of Umbria and only a small amount is produced in the region (state). This wine is a dry white. It has a medium-light body with medium-high acidity. It has flavors of white peach, honeydew melon, wild flowers and seashell. 100% Grechetto.
Ca dei Frati Lugana DOC, I Frati 2023. Lombardy. The varietal Turbiana is native to the Lugana appellation. Lugana DOC is located on the south shore of Lake Garda. It straddles the regional boundary of Lombardy and Veneto. The winery and estate vineyards are located in Lombardy. Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and it has a significant influence on the micro-climate of Lugana. When young, this wine is fresh with delicate hints of white flowers, balsamic notes and traces of apricot. Time enables it to evolve, allowing the mineral notes to be expressed with greater determination. On the palate, it has a significant savory essence, accompanied by exuberant acidity. Ca dei Frati calls this wine “the jewel in the winery’s crown.” 100% Turbiana.
The Wine List—Reds
Fontanabianca Barbera d’Alba Superiore DOC 2021. Piedmont. The Barbera grape is native to Piedmont. It makes an excellent food wine because it is high in acidity and low in tannins. This wine is medium bodied. It has aromas of plum and cherry with the same fruit on the palate accompanied by spice. 100% Barbera. Vinous 90 points.
Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano Chianti Classico DOCG 2021. Tuscany. The Sangiovese grape is native to Tuscany, although it is grown throughout central Italy and parts of northern and southern Italy. The Frescobaldi family has been making wine in Tuscany from the Sangiovese varietal for over 700 years. The grapes for this wine were grown in the Siena area and were all harvested by hand. This Chianti Classico is a splendid limpid shade of ruby red. On the nose it begins with fruity notes of berries and other red fruits such as cherries and plums. The floral aspects are very evident and are dominated by strong hints of violet and wild rose. This gives way to the spicy aroma with cloves and cardamom, and ends on a fresh, balsamic note. On the palate it is mineral with a silky tannic texture, while the finish is fresh and mineral. Sangiovese base with a few complimentary varietals. Wine Spectator 93 points.
Cafaggio Basilica del Cortaccio Toscana IGT 2019. Tuscany. It has been said that “Tuscany was made for Cabernet Sauvignon.” This may explain why “Super Tuscans” are so popular world-wide. Do not expect this wine to taste like California or Bordeaux Cabs. It’s different. This Cafaggio offers enticing violet and black currant aromas and flavors, shaded by accents of boysenberry, mint and black pepper. It firms up on the dense finish, where earth and spice accents add detail. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. James Suckling 92 points, Wine Spectator 91 points.
Zenato Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC, Ripassa 2020. Veneto. In Italian, ripasso means “repassing.” This wine is vinified in the fall but a few months later it is poured over the skins and pulp of a previous Amarone fermentation. This “repassing” incites a secondary fermentation infusing the wine with a hint of the spicy, glycerol kick of Amarone. It is often referred to as a “baby Amarone.” All of the varietals in this wine are native to Veneto. This Ripassa is a deep ruby-red in color. It shows intense aromas of blackberries and black currants underscored by additional aromas of spice, pepper and a hint of leather. On the palate, it is smooth and viscous with well-balanced acidity and alcohol. 80% Corvina Veronese, 10% Corvinone and 10% Oseleta. Wine Spectator 92 points, James Suckling 92 points.
Monte del Fra Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG, Casa Capitei 2018. Veneto. Rich aromas of spiced plums and blackberry preserves open the nose of this Amarone. As the wine develops, notes of dried leaves, roasted coffee and dried purple flowers begin to flow. The luscious palate is mouth filling with juicy black cherry compote, anise and clove flavors swirling on the palate. It finishes with fine tannins and lifted acidity. Drink now through 2040. All of the varietals in this wine are native to Veneto. Corvina Veronese, Corvinone, Rondinella. Wine Enthusiast 94 points and Editors’ Choice, Luca Maroni 94 points, Decanter 93 points, The Wine Journal 93 points, Wine Critic.com 93 points, Vinibuoni d’Italia 4 stars.
We will be pairing these great wines with three small plates created by the Hilton Chefs. Please inform us of any food sensitivities early by emailing the Treasurer.
You may purchase reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$95
Patrons—$90
Nonmembers—$115

South Pacific Terrific
2025-06-13 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
RESERVATIONS CLOSED FOR THIS EVENT. LOOK TO THE COMING MONTHS TO JOIN US!
Join us for an unforgettable evening tasting ten (yes, 10!) exceptional wines from Australia and New Zealand at South Pacific Terrific! on Friday, June 13th, 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg. Guided by wine expert and educator, Kevin Ostrowski, we’ll learn about the world-class wines and the vibrant wine culture of these two dynamic wine regions. Whether you’re a Southern Hemisphere wine aficionado or just curious about the wines of this region, this event promises to introduce you to new and exciting wines that will become some of your favorites.
WINES You’ll be greeted with a bubbly rosé from Hawke’s Bay New Zealand from the acclaimed McBride Sisters Wine Company, McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé Hawke’s Bay. The aromatic nose, vibrant fruit flavors, and creamy texture of this Wine Spectator 92-point Pinot Noir-based brut sparkler is sure to whet your appetite for the wines (and small plates) to come.
We’ll move on to three white wines from three different areas of Australia and one from New Zealand to show the diversity of grapes that can be grown to produce exceptional white wines in this region.
The first white will be Hewitson Gun Metal Riesling 2022 from Eden Valley, Barossa Valley, South Australia, a dry Riesling with a juicy citrus flavor profile complimented with noted minerality. This wine is consistently highly rated: 94 points by James Suckling and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate; and 95 points by Australian Wine Companion.
This will be followed by another highly rated white (94 Wine Enthusiast; 93 Wine Spectator; 91 James Suckling) from Western Australia, Vasse Felix Filius Chardonnay Margaret River 2023. If you are an ABC (anything but Chardonnay) wine drinker, this Chardonnay may convert you. It’s fresh and juicy and beautifully balanced with floral, green apple, and nectarine notes.
Continuing with our highly rated white wines, from New South Wales, Australia, we’ll taste Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Semillon 2024 (92 Wine Enthusiast). This 100% Semillon wine is medium-bodied, yet intense on the palate with an abundance of citrus fruit, honeydew melon, and floral notes and a brisk acidity.
Not to be overlooked and rounding out the white wines, New Zealand’s classic Marlborough Region contributes Allan Scott Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (93 Wine Spectator). This wine presents bold and vibrant flavors of lemon, ripe mango, tangerine, and crisp apple with hints of candied ginger and green tea.
After these diverse and flavorful whites, we’ll move onto the reds, equally interesting and delicious. We’ll stay in Marlborough, New Zealand for the first red, Wairau River Pinot Noir 2022 (92 Wine Enthusiast). This Pinot Noir is described as highly approachable with bright raspberries and cherries, fresh white pepper, and savory oak on the palate.
We’ll head back to Australia for a sampling of the classic Aussie red wine, Shiraz. Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Barossa Shiraz 2022 (94 Decanter; 92 James Suckling; 90 Australian Wine Companion) is nicely structured and displays the plum, dark berry, pepper, and spice notes one expects from an Australian Shiraz.
Staying in Australia, the next wine is a Rhone-style blend of Grenache (58%) and Shiraz/Syrah (42%), d’Arenberg d’Arry’s Original Shiraz/Grenache 2020 (90 Wine Spectator) from the McLaren Valley in South Australia. This wine is a dark ruby red color with a bouquet of red and black berries. It’s velvety with flavors of cherries, black plums, strawberries, and herbs de Provence.
New Zealand presents our final red, a Bordeaux-style blend from the Gimblett Gravels Appellation in Hawke’s Bay, Craggy Range Winery Te Kahu Gimblett Gravels Vineyard 2022. This wine is made from a classic Bordeaux blend of grapes, Merlot (77%), Cabernet Sauvignon (16%) and Cabernet Franc (7%). A bright nose with notes of cedar, cassis, and black current leads to a very precise palate displaying black fruit and violets in this wine.
Because this sampling wasn’t quite enough for our tasters, we decided to top it off with a well-balanced dessert wine from Australia, Yalumba Antique Muscat (92 Wine Enthusiast; 92 Decanter; 91 Wine Spectator). This fortified wine is rich with tastes of caramel and raisined-fruit and a touch of acidity on the back end to balance the sweetness.
FOOD The Hilton chef has created three interesting and flavorful small plates to accompany our wines. The first plate will be a Roasted Eggplant with Frisee, Heirloom Tomato, Grilled Feta and Poppyseed Dressing. That will be followed by Grilled BBQ Shrimp with Goat Cheese Grits and finally, Braised Lamb Leg Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms and Pea Tendrils.
To top it off, we’ve commissioned Mysig Bakery, a local small batch bakery, to provide the absolute must have Australian cookie known as an Anzac Biscuit, to pair with the Muscat and end the evening with a touch of sweetness. Please inform us of food allergies by emailing the Treasurer.
RESERVATIONS There is no better way to spend a Friday the 13th than at an exceptional wine tasting presented by the Pennsylvania Wine Society. Reservation deadline is Tuesday June 10th so don’t delay and RESERVE TODAY!
You may reserve seats by going to the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$105
Patrons—$100
Nonmembers—$125

DEADLINE to Register for Sauvignon Blanc
2025-08-05 00:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Purchase reservations from the Shoppe Page of this website as soon as pricing is available. The products for this event will appear on the Shoppe Page as soon as pricing is determined.

Sauvignon Blanc
2025-08-08 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
~ SOLD OUT and WE ARE Taking a Waiting List ~ Contact the Treasurer if interested in the Wait List.
We look forward to seeing you Friday, August 8th – 7p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg for a summertime Sauvignon Blanc tasting. We selected 10 Sauvignon Blancs from 5 countries – the United States (California & Washington), Argentina, Chile, France, and New Zealand. The wines will be accompanied by three small plates, which the Hilton Chef has paired with the wine. If you have special dietary requirements, please be sure to note that on your registration or email the treasurer.
The small plates will consist of:

Toasted Pumpernickel, Lemon Goat Cheese, Basil Pine Nut Gremolata
Crispy Rock Shrimp, Spicy Remoulade, Celery Slaw, Flour Tortilla
Grilled Chicken Brochette with Arugula Chimichurri

The following is a listing of the 10 wines you will be tasting:

Cottesbrook Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc – non-vintage from Marlborough, New Zealand.
Honig Winery 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, CA
Airfield 2022 Sauvignon Blanc from Yakima Valley, Washington. This wine has been rated 92 pts by Wine Enthusiast and 91 pts by James Suckling
Seven Hills 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from the Columbia Valley, Washington. Wine Enthusiast and Decanter gave this wine 91 pts.
Wapisa 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Patagonia, Argentina. This wine was rated 91 pts by James Suckling and 90 pts by Wine Spectator.
EQ Coastal 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from the Valle de Casablanca in Chile. James Suckling rated this wine 91 pts.
Henri Bourgeois Petit Bourgeois 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley in France. This Sauvignon Blanc received the following ratings: 91 James Suckling, 91 Wilfred Wong, and 89 Wine Enthusiast.
L’Escarpe 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley, France. This wine was awarded 91 pts from Wine Enthusiast and 90 pts by the International Wine Report.
Cois Henri Estate 2024 Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand. This wine was rated 91 pts by Wine Enthusiast.
Invivo X SJP 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand. This vintage was rated 93 pts by Wine Spectator and has consistently been rated 92 pts or above by Wine Spectator from 2021 to 2024. James Suckling rated the 2021 and 2022 vintages 90 pts.

At the end of the evening, you’ll have the chance to vote for your favorite Sauvignon Blanc from each of the featured regions. We’ll tally the results and crown the crowd favorites, so come ready to swirl, sip, and stake your claim on the best in the lineup.
Whether you’re team New Zealand zing or California sunshine in a glass, your palate will help decide the winners! We hope you will join us for this refreshing summer event!
Reservation deadline —Tues., Aug. 5th You may make reservations via the Shoppe Page on this website.
Members—$95
Patrons—$90
Nonmembers—$115

DEADLINE to Register for Luxury Zinfandel
2025-09-16 00:00 - 17:00 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
You may reserve seats by going to the Shoppe Page of this website.

Luxury Zinfandel - EVENT SOLD OUT
2025-09-19 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This event is sold out. If you wish to join a waiting list – contact the Treasurer.

Photo by Craig Lovell – https://fineartamerica.com
United States, 1885. Grover Cleveland was sworn in for his first term as POTUS, the Washington Monument was dedicated, the Statue of Liberty arrived in New York harbor, and the first Zinfandel vines were planted on steep, rocky limestone slopes in Paso Robles. Many 100+ year old Zinfandel vines planted across California are still thriving, and used to make some of the state’s most compelling wines. Wines made from these legendary vines are distinctive, complex and imbued with history. Old vines produce lower yields, and their grapes have more concentrated flavors and tend to communicate terroir more effectually because of their long-established presence in the soil.
Zinfandel changes character significantly depending on whereabouts in California it’s grown. But classic Zinfandel – spicy, peppery, brambly-briary and fruity – has no equal. Its charm is in its rustic exuberance. It has soul. “At harvest time, growers bring the Cabernet in new trucks and ride fancy cars. The Zinfandel arrives in a motley assortment of old 1940s and 1950s-era vehicles, and the growers are just as earthy and uncomplicated. That only happens with Zinfandel.” notes Tom Mackey, of St. Francis Winery in Sonoma County.
Many of you who participated in past Zin events have asked for a high-end Zin tasting and here is your event! We are fortunate that wine expert and entertaining speaker, Eric Miller, agreed to find some luxury bottles and prepare an elegant tasting of wines from the most succulent, spicy and delicious Zinfandel grapes.
Once upon a time in America, Zinfandel was known as a “hot tub” wine and most people were discreet enough to not talk about what they were having with it. Those Zinful stories are for another night when the women are smoking cigars and the bobblehead men have fallen asleep with the TV on. No, this night is a more sedate window into what has happened to our beloved grape in Eric Miller’s fifty years of vinous romance.
Because Zinfandel is a prolific grape there was a lot of it to be found from Cucamonga to Mendocino counties, along with other social entertainments. The pale version of Zinfandel played an important role in our favorite dark red beverage, which will be briefly mentioned, but we will not be smoking any weed or tasting any White Zinfandel.
Red Zinfandel is known for its rich, dark purple color scheme, medium to high tannin levels, high alcohol content, and medium acidity. While it tends to be medium-bodied and medium dry, it is literally bursting with flavors and aromas of jam, raspberry, blackberry, cherry, plums, cinnamon, black pepper, and licorice all wrapped around various intensities of oak. It’s seductive… people love it.
For Eric, the love began with the breakthrough “Three R’s” — Ravenswood, Rafanelli and Ridge. They mastered the grape’s foibles and used them to create an irrepressible style of California red wine. They rocked our world. Happily, we could afford them, but then the world changed. Too much press. Some son of a gun was buying them up before we could get our hands on them.
Then came Good, Better, Best Zinfandel and we needed to navigate an ocean of wannabe’s. It was not a coincidence that a brand new winery began to make Zinfandel exclusively and started its name with an “R” so it could get on the Zinfandel wagon. High-toned wineries like Biale got the idea and gave Zinfandel full focus. Then came Madison Avenue and Julia Child, the Food Channel; and OMG, Zinfandel became the step-child of sophisticated wine-speak.
Eric’s big questions:

Is this new generation of Zin worth a hundred bucks? Thirty?
Who is Rajat Parr (not a winemaker, I promise you) and why is he using grapes from Cucamonga?
Why does Joel Peterson call his Zinfandel a “food wine” and why is it so light?

Come confused.
Leave happy.
You’ll enjoy both the wine and food at this event. Chef Justin’s small plate food pairings are all meat-centric this time because that’s what Zin cries out for; but Chef also has some great vegan options available for each course. Please send all food allergies to the Treasurer. Here are the small plates:

Roasted Garlic Loaf Crostini, Smoked Skirt Steak with Chive Aioli
Herb Crusted Lamb Lollipop with a Red Wine Reduction Sauce
Prosciutto Wrapped Pork Loin with Fig BBQ Sauce

Join us Friday, September 19th, 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg to taste some of the very best wines from this favorite grape. Reservation deadline is Tuesday, September 16th.
You may make reservations via the Shoppe Page of this website. Trust us—you want to be there—you deserve this special treat!
Members—$155
Patrons—$150
Nonmembers—$175

Finger Lakes
2025-11-07 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Registration for this event is closed. If you wish to be on a wait list, please contact the Treasurer.
The Finger Lakes region of New York State is home to more than 130 wineries and is the second largest wine producing region in the country. Historically the region was known for wine from native Vitis labrusca grapes like Concord, Pink Catawba and Vidal Blanc. And Hazlitt 1852 Winery on Seneca Lake sells 2.5 million bottles of its flagship Red Cat wine every year. (Cat is wine maker shorthand for Catawba).
Historically it was commonly thought that grapes native to Europe, i.e., Vitis vinifera, could not survive the harsh central New York winters. All of this changed in the 1950’s and ’60’s when a Ukrainian immigrant, Konstantin Frank, partnered with Gold Seal Winery and planted vinifera grapes like Riesling and Chardonnay which ultimately survived the winters. Dr. Frank reasoned that winter in the Crimea where he was from was much harsher than the Finger Lakes.
Join the PA Wine Society Friday November 7th at 7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg to enjoy ten wines from eight different Finger Lakes producers, beginning with Dr. Frank Cellars whose wines don’t need much introduction. The aforementioned Konstantin Frank started the vinifera revolution in the Finger Lakes in 1958. The winery is still a family run business, now with the 4th generation leading. We will taste two wines from Dr. Frank: the Celebre NV, a medium sweet methode champenoise Riesling Crément-style sparkling wine with apple honey and spicy aromas on an acidic backbone. We will also be tasting the 2024 Rkatsiteli; a white wine made from a Georgian grape whose lineage can be traced to 3000 BC. The Rkatsiteli is a strikingly aromatic wine with a vibrant medley of tropical and herbal notes.
The next winery is Lakewood Vineyards on the southwestern shore of Seneca Lake. Lakewood started growing grapes in 1955 on land that was a derelict peach and apple orchard. Originally, they sold their grapes to larger winemakers such as Tatlor and Gold Seal. However, in the 1980’s changes in the market forced Lakewood to start making their own wine if they were to survive. Lakewood now farms 100 acres and grows everything from Riesling and Cabernet Franc to Catawba and Vignoles. We will be tasting the 2023 Chardonnay, described as rich and honeyed stone fruit character with caramel, mushroom and toasty vanillin notes. The flavor is on the quiet side, but the mouthfeel makes for food-friendly sipping. Wine Enthusiast awarded this wine 89 points.
Next, we will taste wines from Heart and Hands Wine Company. Heart and Hands was founded in 2007 by Tom and Susan Higgans focusing on producing high quality terroir-driven Pinot Noir and Riesling from their estate on the eastern shore of Lake Cayuga. In the early 2000’s Tom left the tech industry to pursue his passion for making wine, Tom followed this passion to Burgundy and California learning traditional winemaking techniques from masters in the field. Upon returning to the Finger Lakes, the Higgans set their sights on finding the perfect limestone-laden land to cultivate world class Pinot Noir. The winery’s vineyards are underpinned by rare limestone bedrock similar to Burgundy’s, and host nine Pinot Noir clones— Riesling as well as lesser-known cool climate varietals like Aligoté, Lagrein, and Pinot Auxerrois. The first wine is the 2021 Esoterra which is a blend of Aligoté and Pinot Auxerrois. The wine is characterized by bright acidity and stone fruit overtones.
The next wine from Heart and Hands is the 2022 Pinot Noir. This Pinot leaves you wanting more, with a tempting nose of roses, raspberries, and subtle hints of forest floor. A firm palate of tart cherries and black currents has a nice balance of refreshment. The finish is graceful with soft tannins lingering on the palate.
Forge Cellars was founded by Louis Barruol from the Rhone Valley’s Chateau de St.-Cosme, the flagship Domaine in Gigondas. The project debuted with the 2011 vintage. Forge specialized in bone dry Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc from the Southeastern shore of Seneca Lake. Forge has 16 different vineyard sites or “Lieux-dits” along an 18-mile stretch allowing an exploration of the unrivaled diversity of soil types.
We will taste the 2023 Forge Riesling Classique. According to Forge the Classique bottlings are their most important wines. Each of the 16 vineyards contribute to the blend aiming to reveal the true nature of each vintage and to explore the terroir of east Seneca Lake. The 2023 Classique is a dry medium bodied wine with notes of orchard fruit, peach and apricot balanced by a taut zesty spine of ginger and quinine with a mineral driven finish. The wine is notable for its precision and balance making it a sophisticated expression of the New York terroir.
A new winery to the region, Apollo’s Praise, was founded in 2023 by wine making couple Kelby James Russell and Julian Rose Hoyle. Apollo’s Praise is a winery committed to expressing the world class and artistic nature of Finger Lakes Wines. Based primarily on fruit from their Lahoma vineyard site on the southeast shore of Seneca Lake, the portfolio stretches from powerful dry Rieslings to Chardonnay, Gruner Veltliner, Cabernet Franc and surprises yet to come. The Lahoma vineyard is a 55-acre site composed of four rolling hills. Uniquely, the soil is sandstone which is uncommon in the Finger Lakes. “Walking through the vineyard you see large red rocks or quartz coming up from the ground …” Kelby explains. “The sandstone does a phenomenal job of draining away excess moisture … Rieslings on sandstone have real opulence.” We will taste the 2024 Riesling “Kabinett”: a celebration of one of the most delicious, thoughtful and misunderstood expressions of Rieslings that exists—Kabinett! This explosive and flavorful style of Riesling features ripping acidity to underline its precociousness, can age for decades, and is typically lower in alcohol. This wine aims to stop people in their tracks with simply how delicious it is.
Sheldrake Point was founded in 1997 by a group of wine enthusiasts who purchased a former dairy farm and orchard on the western shore of Lake Cayuga. The winery started with 5 acres of Vitis vinifera varietals and has since grown to 57 acres. The vineyard is wedged between two deep gorges gently sloping to the east almost to the shore of the lake, with depths of over 400 feet, the waters create a temperature moderating mesoclimate for the grapes. The lake effect hinders early bud break in the Spring, inhibits daily swings in temperature and can delay the effects of autumn frost. Sheldrake Point Rosé made from 100% Cabernet Franc is a cornerstone of the wine portfolio comprising one third of production (2,500-3,000) cases. To make their rosé Sheldrake Point uses the skin contact method. After harvest, the grapes were destemmed and crushed. The resulting must mixture is allowed to soak 12-18 hours. The must is pressed, and the skins are discarded. The 2024 Sheldrake Point Rosé opens with a bouquet of strawberries and cream, raspberry, tart cherry, grapefruit and delicate floral notes. On the palate it presents with a refreshing burst of tartness followed by sweet Jolly Rancher candy-like notes, all balanced by a dry finish.
Ryan William Vineyard was established in 2004 and is located on the southeast shore of Seneca Lake using a 100 % estate grown model. Several varieties of Vitis vinifera grapes are grown including Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and others. We will taste the 2021 Ryan William Cabernet Franc. James Suckling writes: “A translucent nose of cranberries and pomegranates turns to a juicy palate structured by acidity and medium grained tannins, a hint of rose petals and lavender hovering above notes of cherries and rooibos. Nice balance between fruit and more savory notes.”
The last wine of the evening is a Bordeaux blend from Ravines Wine Cellars. Ravines is the project of Lisa and Morten Hallgren. The Hallgren’s realized the serious potential for fine, cool climate wine making in the Finger Lakes. This was in 2000 and as timing would have it an opportunity to buy a 17-acre parcel of land on the eastern shore of Keuka Lake between two deep ravines. These particular ravines became the winery’s namesake. Ravines first vintage was in 2002 and was exclusively dry vinifera wines. The 2021 Maximilien is gorgeously textured with red fruits, spice and fine-grained tannins. The blend consists of od 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Merlot. Softened tannins are created by extended barrel and cellar aging while increasing complexity.
For pairing with these great wines, the Hilton Chefs plan three small plates fashioned after local Finger Lakes cuisine.

Steamed Middleneck Clams w/White Garlic Butter Sauce
Cornell Chicken Thighs with Syracuse Salt Potatoes
‘Beef on Weck’ Toast, Horseradish, Boursin, Caraway

Please send any food allergies to the Treasurer.
This promises to be a great fall event. We hope you will join us. Reservation deadline is Tuesday, November 4th. You may purchase reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$100
Patrons—$95
Nonmembers—$120

Merlot: The Velvet Charmer of the Wine World -- Event is SOLD OUT
2026-02-20 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This event is sold out. Plan now to join us for future events – Alsace Wines with David Killian in March, Honig Wines from Napa CA with Michael Honig in April and Pinot Noir with Kevin Ostrowski in May!

Merlot is one of the most expressive and site sensitive grape varieties and how it can translate soil, climate and winemaking tradition into dramatically different styles.
Therefore, I selected wines for you to taste from the best New and Old-World Merlot regions and hopefully you can pick-up the nuisances of the terroir in these wines.
The following is a listing of the wines we will be tasting:
Montes Alpha Merlot 2020 from the Colchagua Valley in Chile. This wine was rated 92 points by James Suckling.
Oyster Bay Merlot 2023 from Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. This 2023 vintage was awarded 90 points by James Suckling and Decanter World Wine Awards in the UK and named a Best Buy by Wine Enthusiast in 2025.
Abeja Merlot 2020, Walla Walla Valley, Washington State. This wine is 99% Merlot with 1% Cabernet Sauvignon and has received numerous ratings ranging from 91 to 94 points. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 93 points and named it an “Editors’ Choice”.
Whitehall Lane Merlot 2021, Napa Valley, California. The 2021 vintage is a blend of 82% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc and has been rated 92 points by Wine Spectator, James Suckling and Wine Enthusiast.
Trefethen Merlot 2021 from Napa Valley, California. It was rated 92 points by James Suckling and 94 points by Decanter.
Saintayme Saint Emilion Grand Cru 2022. This wine is from the Saint Emilion AOC in the Bordeaux region of France. This wine was awarded 94 points by James Suckling, 91 points by Wine Spectator and 90 points by Wine Advocate.
Chateau Gazin Pomerol 2021. This wine is 100% Merlot and received 93 points from James Suckling, 95 from Vinous and 92 from Decanter.
Pomerol is a small but prestigious wine-growing region in Bordeaux, France, known primarily for its red wines made from Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is recognized for its exceptional terror and produces some of the most sought-after wines in the world.
Bell ‘Aja Bolgheri Superiore 2021 from Bolgheri DOC, Tuscany, Italy. This wine is almost entirely Merlot. This vintage was given 95 points by Wine Spectator and 93 by James Suckling.
Tolaini Picconero Tenuta Montebello 2019 from Tuscany, Italy. This wine is 100% Merlot and is our highest rated wine of the evening. It received 96 points from James Suckling, 95 from Robert Parker and Wine Advocate, and 92 points from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast.
The wines will be accompanied by three small plates. Below is the menu for the small plates. If you have food allergies please email the Treasurer.
Course 1 – Toasted Sourdough, Seared Duck Breast, Cherry Jam, Black Pepper Ricotta
Course 2 – Braised Short Ribs, Potato Gnocchi, Pine Nut Gremolata
Course 3 – Dark Chocolate Entremet, Roasted Fig, Honey, Marcona Almond
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, February 17th. However—THE BEST TIME TO REGISTER FOR THE MERLOT EVENT IS RIGHT NOW!! To make reservations, go to the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$135
Patrons—$130
Nonmembers—$155

Alsace Wines - SOLD OUT - Join the wait list by emailing the treasurer
2026-03-13 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This event is SOLD OUT. We are taking a wait list. To join the wait list E-mail the treasurer.
Anne Krebiehl, MW makes the case for Alsace as an under-the-radar region that comprehensively caters to the demand for fresher, lighter styles of wine in a February posting on Club Oenologique. Allow her words which follow to motivate your securing seats for our unique Alsace event on Friday, March 13th.
“Whether it’s racy dry whites, fragrant reds, refreshing fizz or unique aromatic varieties, Alsace has it all. Yet this region, tucked into the north-east corner of France, is often overlooked. Why? Because its varied wine styles and grape varieties refuse to be typecast easily; offering so much to the wine lover seemingly counts against it. Given the nature of contemporary tastes in wine, however, Alsace is a region ripe for reassessment.
The varied wine styles and grape varieties of Alsace refuse to be typecast easily Crémant d’Alsace is the region’s most dynamic category. These traditional method sparkling wines went from representing just under 25% of the region’s total wine production in 2005 to 40% by 2025. Their success is not surprising and is helped by a latitude almost identical to that of Champagne.
Alsace Crémants, chiefly based on Pinot Blanc and Auxerrois, come with the kind of cool, natural freshness that’s so desirable in fizz. Most are clean, bright aperitif styles but there are artisanal, longer-aged cuvées that will impress sparkling-wine aficionados.
The rosé category also merits attention: by law, the rosés have to be made from Pinot Noir, so every single bottle of pink Crémant d’Alsace is a saignée-method rosé – only without the hefty price tag.
Lovers of Pinot Noir should also tune into Alsace. This is where things have changed most dramatically in recent years. Pinot Noir has long been the red grape of Alsace and, for the longest time, it was turned into juicy, light-bodied, pale reds that made for delicious, easy drinking but would not have impressed serious Pinot lovers – this has changed fundamentally. Climate change and ambition have wrought wonders.
When a law change in 2011 finally permitted separate rulebooks for Alsace’s 51 grands crus, rather than one general rule for all, growers in three sites applied to have Pinot Noir approved as a permitted grape in the grand crus of Kirchberg in Barr, Hengst in Wintzenheim and Vorbourg in Rouffach. The first two were finally approved for the 2022 vintage and Vorbourg, at long last, for the 2024 vintage. But even outside these sites, Pinot Noir makes exquisitely elegant wines, especially in the sites of Jurassic and Triassic limestone that crop up in the varied geological mosaic of Alsace. These wines can rightfully take their place in any line-up of fine Pinot Noirs.
In 2022, Alsace also changed the rulebook for Riesling so that all non-late harvest wines must be dry. This finally put an end to lingering associations of sweetness with those flute-shaped bottles. These expressive, often site-specific wines are perfect for moods and situations where finesse is prized over power, where fine, ripe acidity takes the lead in accentuating subtle flavours and complements rather than dominates. Their lightness of body and moderate alcohol levels dial into that same desire for lightness and transparency that defines much modern cooking.
For Riesling fans, Alsace offers beautiful combinations of bedrocks: why not compare Rieslings grown on granite, limestone and marl and find your favourite? And lovers of sweet Rieslings need not worry: beguiling Vendanges Tardives and Selections de Grains Nobles, i.e. late harvest and nobly sweet styles, are still made and are always clearly labelled.
Alsace finds itself right back on trend with wines that are fresh, light and nuanced with its Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer, Alsace holds another card up its sleeve. These more aromatic varieties are still made in a spectrum of dry, off-dry and medium sweet, but the choices put them in a sweet spot for pairing with dishes that also play with gentle sweetness while staying savoury.
This happens when spice and fruit are combined, say in a Mexican pineapple salsa with chilli, in fruit- or honey-glazed hams, or in North African tagines or pastillas. Various Asian cuisines also play this game: in Thai cuisine, for instance, accents of palm sugar counter chilli-heat and citrus tanginess, while sweet-savoury hoisin sauce lends mellow depth to Cantonese favourites like char siu-style barbecues.
With these kinds of flavours, off-dry and medium-sweet wines come into their own and can pick up and resonate with these sweeter strands of the food. Often dismissed as difficult to pair, they open up possibilities where dry wines start to struggle because they are not bone-dry or decidedly sweet but somewhere in between. Once you accept this playfulness in the wines’ balance, these pairings suggest themselves. The sweetness scale, mandatory on every bottle since 2021, has ended the guessing game that once may have prevented you from opening bottles.
Away from the spotlight, it’s clear that Alsace has quietly continued in a multifaceted vein, honing almost every style, and now finds itself right back on trend with wines that are fresh, light and nuanced – and still incredible value.”
Our event host, David Killian, has similar feelings for Alsace wines and has collected some gems for us to experience. The lively acidity and fruitiness that defines Alsace wines makes them some of the best all around partners for food. David has paired these wines with three Alsace-inspired dishes prepared by Hilton Chefs. Please contact the Treasurer for any food allergy concerns.

Chicken Liver Mousse on Garlic Crostini with Pickled Cipollini
Choucroute – Sauerkraut and Potatoes with Pork and Grilled Bratwurst
Caramel Apple Galette with Brown Butter Streusel and Smoked Pecans

This is a wine lovers’ event not to be missed! We will be at the Hilton Harrisburg Friday March 13th at 7 p.m.
Reservation deadline is Tuesday, March 10th. Please contact the Treasurer for any food allergy concerns.
To make reservations, go to the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$140
Patrons—$135
Nonmembers—$160

Honig Wines
2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
A deeper dive into the Wines of Honig April 24th
We are not just pouring Napa Valley wines. We are walking through the heart of Rutherford with Michael Honig, President of Honig Vineyard & Winery, joining us in person.
This tasting is more than a lineup. It is context, perspective, and a rare opportunity to hear directly from a winery that has built its reputation on precision, sustainability, and doing two varietals exceptionally well. Let’s talk about what will be in your glass.
Sauvignon Blanc
Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2024
This is the wine that built the house.
Honig’s Sauvignon Blanc is consistently one of Napa Valley’s benchmark expressions of the varietal. Expect bright citrus, layered tropical fruit, and that signature balance of freshness and texture that makes it wildly food friendly. It is vibrant without being sharp and expressive without being overworked.
Paired with our white cheese plate featuring lemon chive whipped chevre, grilled feta, Austrian Gruyere, basil roasted pear, spiced Marcona almonds, and blueberry jam, this wine will absolutely sing. The acidity cuts through creaminess while the fruit complements the pear and jam beautifully.
Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc
A more site-driven expression from the Rutherford AVA, this bottling adds depth and a touch more structure. Think citrus layered with subtle stone fruit and mineral tension.
Tasting this alongside the Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc becomes a masterclass in how site influences style. Same grape. Same producer. Different voice.
Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc
This is where things get especially interesting.
Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc delivers honeyed richness balanced by bright acidity. Expect notes of apricot, citrus marmalade, and floral sweetness without heaviness.
With cheese, particularly creamy and salty components, this style becomes electric. Sweet and savory is not a trend. It is a classic for a reason.
Cabernet Sauvignon: The Heart of Rutherford
Honig Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
A classic Napa expression. Structured yet polished, layered with dark cherry, cassis, and subtle oak integration. This bottle proves you can have power and elegance in the same glass.
Honig Cabernet Sauvignon Bartolucci Vineyard St. Helena Napa Valley 2021
Single-vineyard focus. More intensity. More depth. Expect darker fruit, firmer structure, and serious aging potential. This is the bottle for those who appreciate precision and pedigree.
2018 Rutherford Appellation Cabernet
Rutherford character on full display. That recognizable dusty tannin profile layered black fruit, and a finish that lingers. The 2018 vintage in Napa was beautifully balanced, and this wine showcases why that year continues to earn praise.
These Cabernets will be paired with our red cheese plate featuring 6-month farmstead Manchego, 2 year aged Black Diamond Cheddar, Gorgonzola Piccante, honeycomb, cherry jam, and dark chocolate. Bold Cabernet with aged cheddar works effortlessly.
Cabernet with blue cheese is a classic pairing.
Cabernet and dark chocolate speak for itself.
Why This Event Matters
This is not just a tasting. It is a side-by-side exploration of:

Appellation versus single vineyard
Napa Valley versus Rutherford nuance
Dry versus late harvest expression
Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon at their most intentional

And we get to experience it all with the President of the winery, Michael Honig in the room.
If you appreciate wines with clarity of purpose, environmental stewardship, and an unmistakable sense of place, April 24th promises to be one of the highlights of our spring calendar.
Seats are limited, and this lineup deserves a full room.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Please review the two cheese plate food items and contact the Treasurer for any food allergy concerns.
Reservation deadline is April 21st or when we sell out. Make reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$155
Patrons—$150
Nonmembers—$175

Pinot Noir - Simply Elegant
2026-05-15 19:00 - 21:30 | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Pinot Noir, the Noble Grape. Pinot Noir, the Finicky Grape. Pinot Noir, the Versatile Grape.
A quality Pinot Noir displays all these characteristics in the glass and that’s what you’ll discover at the PWS tasting on May 15th.
Pinot Noir is one of the original six noble grapes proudly taking its place alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling.
Lauded for producing high-quality wines. Pinot Noir is celebrated worldwide for producing some of the most elegant and aromatic wines. In Burgundy, its heartland, it has been cultivated for over two centuries. From there it has expanded to produce top-tier wines in Oregon (primarily the Willamette Valley) and California. But its reach is not limited to these regions. Vibrant Pinot Noirs are produced in New Zealand (Central Otago), Germany (Baden) and other noted international wine regions.
This PWS tasting event will feature high quality, high-end wines from a variety of these regions, while also, of course, including wines from the signature areas we all love—Burgundy and Oregon.
Pinot Noir is the most difficult of the noble grapes to grow, with some winegrowers calling it the “heartbreak grape.” The grape is very thin skinned and susceptible to disease. It is extremely sensitive to cold and its environment, requiring specific soil types, such as limestone-clay, to thrive. Its tight cluster structure traps moisture making the grape vulnerable to rot and mildew.
Besides its need for just the right temperature, soil, and climate, the vines produce relatively low yields and require very meticulous vineyard management. But when done right, the hard work pays off creating wines that express the terroir beautifully in the glass. As you might expect, the additional care to ensure a great harvest is reflected in the bottle price of the finished product. At the tasting in May, we’ll experience first-hand the different expressions of terroir in high-quality, well-crafted Pinot Noir.
Versatility is yet another hallmark of Pinot Noir. Beyond the red wine we think of as Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir is used in the production of high-end sparkling wines such as Champagne and Blanc de Noirs, to rosé and even white Pinot Noir. This is possible because the juice of the Pinot Noir grape is uncolored; the pigments in the thin, almost black skins make the rosé or red Pinot Noir wines.
Because of the variety of wines produced using Pinot Noir and the expressiveness of terroir, Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile food wines. It generally is light to medium bodied so it can be enjoyed with fatty fish such as salmon and the “lighter” meats such as chicken and pork.
Pinot Noir loves cheese and cheese loves Pinot Noir. Its more earthy expressions, such as from Burgundy and Oregon, stand up to rustic meals and quality Pinot Noirs are at home with elegant dinners. You’ll enjoy discovering how beautifully Pinot Noir pairs with food when the Hilton chefs create small plates to accompany the wines in May.
This event will focus on providing a variety of high-quality wines to demonstrate the many facets of Pinot Noir. We’ll be lead through this journey by a noted wine expert, wine judge and wine educator— Kevin Ostrowski.
We’re still in the difficult process of selecting just the right Pinots for our guests to taste but we’re sure you’ll not be disappointed. At the end of the night, regardless of your decided favorites and preferences, we think you’ll reach a common conclusion…simply elegant.
Some of you already blocked time on your calendar to join us on Friday, May 15th, 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg to expand your knowledge of and, hopefully, deepen your love of Pinot Noir. Reservations are now OPEN so see you there!
Reservation DEADLINE is May 12th. Make reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$160
Patrons—$155
Nonmembers—$180
