DEADLINE to register for Champagne Brunch
2022-11-27 00:00 - 17:00 UTC | PA

Champagne Brunch
2022-12-04 12:00 - 14:30 UTC | Greystone Public House, 2120 Colonial Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17112, United States
Last Day to Register – Sunday, November 27th
Going, going, gone! Seats to the Champagne Brunch on December 4 are almost sold out and the time to buy the remaining seats ends soon. You do not want to miss this Champagne and small plates event at Greystone Public House. The Champagnes have been specially selected to pair with the gourmet food of Chef Jason Viscount. In selecting the Champagnes, we focused on affordable but high-quality small house wines and not the mass marketed Champagnes that are ubiquitous around the holiday season. We also sought variety in style (from Extra Brut to Demi-Sec) and in grapes (100% Chardonnay to blends featuring Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir). This event is for the Champagne aficionado as well as the novice. Join us for food, fun and most importantly CHAMPAGNE! Register today at pawinesociety.org!
MENU
Gathering & Greeting
Gaston Chiquet Tradition 1er Cru

Smoked Salmon Rillettes with Everything Bagel Crostini
Drappier Brut Nature

Spicy Korean Cauliflower Wings, Chogochujang Sauce, Baby Cilantro,
Cucumber Ginger Salad
Waris Hubert Lilyale Blanc de Blancs Zero Dosage

Corn Fritter, Fried Oyster, Horseradish Crème Fraiche, Chives,
Petite Herb Salad
Andre Jacquart Vertus Experience Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru

Smoked Duck Breast, Creamed Wild Rice, Pecan Cranberry Chutney
Ruinart Champagne Brut Rosé

French Pear Tart, Almonds, and Blue Cheese
Piper Heidsieck Champagne Demi Sec Cuvée Sublime

Include any food sensitivities and allergies to be considered in the “notes” section of your online reservation. If you have any questions about the menu, please email treasurer@pawinesociety.org. We can help you with special needs.
Current COVID 19 vaccination proof is required to confirm event reservations. Safe distancing and safety precautions as well as Greystone’s practices and policies will be followed as we are their guests. Precautions will be based on any CDC or PA DOH reported geographic regional exposure risk at the time of the event.
Reservation DEADLINE is Sunday, November 27th at 5 p.m. Click here to reserve seats online.
Member Reservation: $120
Patron Reservation: $115
Nonmember Reservation: $140

The 20th PA Wine Excellence Awards Event - SOLD OUT
2023-01-29 14:00 - 16:30 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT – Reservations closed Tuesday, January 24th at 5 PM
The event on January 29th is actually a celebration. Not only will you be tasting the top eleven Pennsylvania wines as judged by our PA Wine Society panel, but we will be doing this for the 20th time. I still remember the beginning – dedicated, excited, hesitant, hopeful. We experienced all of those emotions as we sought to recognize and encourage the Pennsylvania wine industry.
The changes and improvements over 20 years have been remarkable. I know you will want to try the current top ten. While you taste you will hear from winery representatives who will talk about how the wines were produced and perhaps refer to the development of their wines over those 20 years.
We honor the top scoring wine with a beautiful plaque that the winery can display until next year, and then awarding the runner up wine with a framed document for display. The runner up will be the top scoring wine from the opposite color of grapes. For instance, if a red is the top winner, the runner up will be the top scoring wine made from white grapes.
A list of the top eleven wines (in alphabetical order) follows. Yes, eleven versus ten this year as there were tied scores. I know you will want to join us for this event at the Harrisburg Hilton on Sunday, January 29th at 2 p.m. when we reveal the top wine and celebrate each of these wines with the winery teams.
If your mantra has been, “I don’t like PA wines” let this event change your perspective. Click here to reserve seats online. RESERVATION DEADLINE is Tuesday, January 24th at 5 p.m.

Cassel Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2016
Chaddsford Sparkling Semillon 2020
Karamoor Estate Cabernet Franc 2017
Karamoor Estate Meritage 2017
Long Shot Desert Rose 2021
Presque Isle Wine Cellars Eskimo Kisses 2020
South Shore Wine Co. Sparkling Riesling 2020
South Shore Wine Co. Gruner Veltliner 2019
Stony Run Winery Pinot Noir 2019
Stony Run Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery Baron Red 2019

Member Reservation: $60
Patron Reservation: $55
Nonmember Reservation: $70

Women and Wine (In Person Event)
2023-03-26 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Today’s Women and Their Wines – an in person tasting of nine wines!
Spring is upon us and what’s a better way to celebrate the longer and warmer days than tasting exceptional wines produced by women in honor of Women’s History Month? Join us March 26 at 2 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg for a celebration of women and wine (and spring!).
There were three guiding principles for our wine selection process for this event:
1) Quality – Every wine is rated 90 points or higher by a recognized wine critic or organization and was approved by our tasting group as a top-notch wine. The female winemakers creating these wines are all lauded in the industry as among the best winemakers of any gender!
2) Availability – Every wine is available (as of this writing) through the Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores or on its website, although not all wines are in every store. Our goal was to let you run out and buy (or order) your favorites from the tasting.
3) Variety – The wines are from different grapes made in different styles from regions around the world. From a California sparkling to a robust Pacific Northwest Cab, we’ll taste a full range of wines.
At the event, you’ll be greeted with a Brut Rosé from Schramsberg’s winemaker, Jessica Koga, whom I had the pleasure of chatting with recently. I’ll share her insights on her road to winemaking and her wines at the event.
We’ll move on to four excellent white wines, all of which would be heaven sipping on the back deck on a warm spring afternoon or paired with a light summer meal. We’ll taste a Pinot Grigio from Italy (Elena Walch); a Grüner Veltliner from the Lehigh Valley (Sarah Troxell of Galen Glen); a McBride Sisters New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and a White Burgundy (Veronique Drouhin-Boss of Joseph Drouhin wines).
But not to be forgotten are the reds, those that are perfect for food or drinking alone. Come sample an Australian Shiraz (2014 Australian Winemaker of the Year Louisa Rose); an Argentinian Malbec from the renowned Susana Balbo; a California Zinfandel (Queen of Zin, Carol Shelton) and finally a Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (Kate Michaud of Double Canyon). Imagine any of these reds with summer grilled meats or even a juicy burger and you’ll remember that summer isn’t just for white wines!
Registration deadline is Tuesday March 21st.
Member Reservation: $70
Patron Reservation: $65
Nonmember Reservation: $90

SHERRY - Spain's Unique Gift to the Wine World
2023-04-21 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
How can Sherry become hip to the consumer of the 21st century? Most of us recognize Sherry as a very old wine growing region (the area’s winemaking has its roots back as far as 3,000 years ago) and as a sweet style of wine.
But Sherry is not just sweet – it has a diversity of styles – from dry to sweet. And with that diversity in wine styles, Sherry has the ability to pair with a wide range of foods. So, if Sherry is so great with food why hasn’t there been a Sherry revolution? Is it too complicated? Too many styles?
Certainly its rarity on wine store shelves, and often being lumped in with dessert wines contribute to the misunderstanding of Sherry.
Sherry is a versatile beverage and our event on Friday, April 21st at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg will showcase this versatility. Sherry makes a killer cocktail so we will sample two cocktails. The first cocktail will be made with a dry style of sherry – served at the beginning of the evening. The second cocktail will be made with a sweeter style sherry – served at the end of the evening.
In between we will have six Sherry wines – ranging from dry to sweet – with three small plates of food.
FINO
Lustau Fino Jarana
MANZANILLA
Bodegas Hidalgo La Gitana Manzilla Pasada Pastrano
AMONTILLADO
Bodego Hidalgo La Gitana Amontillado Napoleon
PALO CORTADO
Gonzalez Byass Palo Cortado Leonor
OLOROSO
Williams and Humbert Oloroso Don Zoilo
PEDRO XIMÉNEZ (PX)
Lustau Pedro Ximénez San Emilio
Three plates of food:
1) Almonds, Olives, Manchego Cheese
2) Spanish Tortilla (potatoes, onion, egg) and Croquetas de Jamon (Spanish Ham Croquettes) – Pescetarian Substitute for Croquetas de Jamon is Garlic Shrimp
3) Mushroom Risotto
Please send any food allergies and requests for substitution WITH YOUR Resevations, or if you forget then send to the Assistant Treasurer’s email or via the website contact form. Click here to email.

There are so many topics to discuss about Sherry – in addition to an introduction to the solera system for aging Sherry we will touch on:

Sherry Casks – highly valued for use in aging other alcoholic beverages.
Vintage Sherry – a very small percentage of production.
Sherry Labeling – if there is no vintage listed, how do we know how old it is?
Recent changes to the rules governing the production of Sherry

Please join us for this informative and enjoyable event.
Member: $100
Patron: $95
Nonmember: $120

The Wonderful World of Waltz Wines
2023-05-19 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
What does this impressive beast have to do with putting better wines in your glass? To find out—join us on Friday, May 19th at the Hilton Harrisburg.
The Waltz team has prepared a special event—more than a tasting. Here are 7 key features for you:

Enjoy an educational presentation supported with slides and video content showcasing what’s new at Waltz Estate Vineyards.
Taste new wines made by 7th generation Zach Waltz, graduate of Cornell’s oenology program.
Learn about the mysterious Gregoire GL7.4, and how it improves wine production from vine to glass.
Relax and comparatively taste, not just the familiar, but a full lineup of White, Rosé and Red wines.
Get FREE passes for visiting the Waltz tasting room to check out future selections!
Win Waltz Library Wines! Wines no longer available for purchase—some that you may have purchased and should have aged, but were too impatient to stay the path. Join us to get your hands on one of those older bottles which is now drinking prime!
Enjoy pairing wines with Hilton Chef Bianca’s special nibbles plates to accompany our wines. For the whites: Seared Sea Scallop Garlic and Honey, Bowtie Pasta in a white wine cream sauce, Herbed Cheese Crostini and Arugula. For the reds: Sauteed Mushroom with a Cabernet Demiglaze, Beef Brochette with Bleu Cheese, Dark Chocolate Truffles.

It will be a great evening. Please come help us celebrate this four-time PA Wine Excellence Winner!
Waltz Vineyards is committed to using only their estate-grown fruit. The vineyard team works diligently throughout the year shoot tucking, thinning, leaf pulling and weeding to assure vines produce top quality vinifera wine grapes. The boutique winery utilizes the most modern wine-making technology imported from Italy.
Many of the wines are finished in French oak barrels sourced from some of the top coopers in France. Each barrel is ordered to be charred specifically for the type of wine to be made. Throughout the year, a rigorous barrel maintenance program is maintained to protect and preserve the beautiful cooperage. If you’ve seen the barrel room, you know.
Waltz has always meticulously maintained all their processes to make great wines. I can’t recall ever seeing a cleaner crush pad or barrel room!
Here’s what we’ll be tasting Friday, May 19th:
2022 Sauvignon Blanc
2019 Sémillon
2021 Fusion
2021 Old Line Chardonnay
2019 Reserve Chardonnay
2021 Stiegel Rosé
2019 Baron Red
2019 Cabernet Franc
2019 Cherry Tree Merlot
2019 Crow Woods Cabernet Sauvignon
I know many of you are excited about this event. For those of you who have not tried these wines, you will be surprised and delighted. Find out what hard work in the vineyard and the cellar means for you the consumer. Enjoy Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery’s bold reds, intriguing whites, and a most captivating rosé guided by the actual grower and winemaker.
Make note that the reservation deadline is Tuesday, May 16th so don’t delay. Go to the Shoppe Page to make Reservations!
Member Reservation: $70
Patron Reservation: $65
Nonmember Reservation: $90

La Strada del Vino
2023-06-16 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
On Friday evening, June 16 at 7:00 pm 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 seven different Italian regions (states).
Our wine road in Italy will cover Piedmont and Emilia-Romagna in the north, Tuscany in central Italy and Abruzzo, Campania, Puglia and Sicily in southern Italy.
The Wine List
~Whites~
Villa Sparina Gavi DOCG del Commune di Gavi 2020. Piedmont. Gavi is known as the white wine jewel of southern Piedmont. It is the showcase for the Cortese grape. This wine comes from an area that is only 30 miles north of Genoa, Christopher Columbus’ home town in Liguria. This Gavi has always been integral to the identity of Villa Sparina. It has a unique strength and exquisite freshness that is a true expression of the appellation. 100% Cortese. James Suckling 91 points.
Cantina Sanpaolo Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2020 Claudio Quarta. Campania. Most Italians believe the greatest expression of Fiano comes from the hills around Avellino east of Naples in Campania. I agree. The winery sits on top of a hill surrounded by vineyards and woods populated by wolves. This wine comes from a single vineyard. It is full of flavor and is pale straw yellow in color. It has a typical herbaceous scent that is well reflected on the palate, together with a quality of freshness. 100% Fiano.
Cantina Zaccagnini Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC 2020 Il Bianco di Ciccio. Abruzzo. When you sip this wine, you can clearly understand why Trebbiano is the most widely planted white grape in Italy. This wine is medium straw yellow in color. On the nose it is intense and fragrant with a focused bouquet mainly of white-fleshed fruit with hints of citrus and dried fruit. On the palate it displays freshness with a flavor of citrus. 100% Trebbiano d’Abruzzo.
Ottosoldi Gavi DOCG 2021. Piedmont. This wine is a bright and juicy Gavi with ripe lemon, peach and apple fruits highlighted with a whisper of herbs. Really well-textured on the palate with lifted acidity lending length on the finish. It is a dynamic and versatile white made from organically grown grapes. 100% Cortese. James Suckling 92 points.
~Reds~
Poggio Anima Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC 2019 Asmodeus. Sicily. This wine is dark garnet in color. It has notes of ripe plums, leather, garrigue and pepper on the nose. This Asmodeus displays ripe black cherry and a touch of candied berry on the palate. The finish consists of fruit sweetness and a licorice note with soft gripping tannins to hold it all together. 100% Nero d’Avola.
Tre Monte Romagna Sangiovese Superiore IGT Campo di Mezzo 2020. Emila-Romagna. Made with organically farmed grapes, this young red has inviting aromas of wild berries, eucalyptus and tilled earth. It is bright and easy but also delicious. It features juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry and star anise set against polished tannins and lively acidity. 100% Sangiovese di Romagna. Vinous 91 points, Wine Enthusiast 90 points.
Poggio Anima Primitivo – Salento IGT 2019 Lilith. Puglia. This wine is opaque ruby. It displays smoked meat, dried cherry, cracked pepper, and cassis on the deeply scented nose. It is medium to full-bodied with berry cobbler flavors showing a liqueur-like intensity with an anise note coming up with air. The smoke and cassis notes carry through on the finish, which also features dusty tannins. This is a wine of real intensity and concentration. 100% Primitivo.
Tenuta Degli Dei Tuscana IGT 2019 Le Redini. Tuscany. Le Redini impresses with its energy and vibrancy. Plum, mocha, gravel, spice and licorice are all beautifully delineated. With the 2019 vintage, Le Redini has an extra kick of energy that is just compelling. It’s a wine of extreme pleasure. 90% Merlot, 10% Alicante. James Suckling 94 points, Vinous 93 points
Poggio Landi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2017. Tuscany. A certified-organic wine, this 2017 Brunello di Montalcino shows a graceful and delicate side with wild cherries, blue flowers and warm earthiness. The wine is silky and smooth on the palate, with hints of crushed mineral or limestone. Fresh acidity fuels a long finish. 100% Sangiovese Grosso. Wine Advocate 93 points, Wine Spectator 92 points.
This will be the ONLY PWS Italian wine event for the year. You will not want to miss this exceptional tasting. Join us for an evening enjoying some of the finest wines Italy has to offer. We will also have a selection of fine cheeses and Hilton baguettes.
Member—$65
Patron—$60
Nonmember—$85

South African Wines
2023-08-18 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Too quickly dismissed by some, South Africa is undoubtedly one of the world’s most dynamic wine producers. So, if your experience of South African wines is from a party ten years ago, it’s time to take another look! This wine line-up has fresh, crisp, acidic whites and robust smooth reds worth exploring.
Established South African winemakers re-emerged onto the international scene in the early 1990s, following the demise of the apartheid era. New wines, new wineries, highly qualified winemakers, and even new regions have appeared steadily ever since. All of this makes South Africa more exciting than ever, but more complicated, too. And that’s why we recruited an expert to guide our tour—Kevin Ostrowski, PWS member and wine tour guide extraordinaire! Kevin is American Wine Society’s Western Pennsylvania Regional Ambassador, Chapter Chair of the AWS Beaver County, PA, chapter, and member of the AWS Education Committee.
An AWS Certified Wine Judge, Kevin is a Certified Specialist of Wine with the Society of Wine Educators, holds a Wine and Spirits Education Trust Level 3 Award in Wine and Spirits (with Merit), and has completed level 1 Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers. Kevin has vetted most of these wines; with our tasting team suggesting a few extras (you know… we couldn’t help it). In addition, Kevin has toured South Africa’s wine areas and brings personal stories to enrich the presentation and transport us all briefly to this beautiful wine region.
In South Africa, the sustainability initiative is encapsulated by a San word, hannuwa. It is a collective word suggesting a life of harmony and plenty; in other words, success in sustaining life. Hannuwa expresses the wine industry philosophy embodied in the pledge signed by producers: to farm sustainably; to be a custodian of the land and preserve it for future generations; to nurture a culture of respect among the people who work on the farms and in the cellars; to promote an environment of dignity, equality and upliftment for all; to protect the unique and valuable biodiversity of our winelands; and to safeguard the rich heritage of South Africa’s winelands. AND they make some excellent wines!
On Friday, August 18th at 7 PM—Hilton Harrisburg, our wine tour begins with a sparkling greeting wine made in traditional style from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Following the bubbles, we’ll start the program and get serious with the whites. South Africa boasts some of the world’s great Sauvignon Blanc, and we have two!
South Africa though, to many, suggests Chenin Blanc. South African Chenins are quite different from French—almost always dry, but ripe and full of flavor (often with the complexity that comes from the increasingly sought-after old-vine fruit). We think we’ve narrowed it down to two we want you to try. (BTW, one is old vines and lovely!)
We’ll move gently to reds with a Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé you’ll likely recognize, but perhaps haven’t tried because lesser-known regions are sometimes passed by. And since it’s summer—a second rosé of—guess this one—Pinotage. You can’t object because no tour of South Africa is complete without Pinotage. For many it is a love-it-or-hate-it grape. It is a South African creation (1926) of ‘parents’ Pinot Noir (which imparts its strawberry aromas and lovely texture in young wines, and more complex, farmyard characteristics in the more mature), and Cinsault, which adds spice and body. Whether you love or not the grape, we bet you’ll love this rosé!
Our first red is another widely planted noble grape–Pinot Noir. We follow with a Cabernet Franc we found to be like no other we’ve had from anywhere in the world—and it’s so interesting we had to include it, you understand. To finish the reds flight we have, of course, chosen a Pinotage from the Western Cape. Pinotage continues to evolve into a plethora of different styles meaning there’s never been a better time to explore, or revisit, it. Seriously. Join the fun here!
Equally enjoyable as the wines will be foods native to South Africa. Hilton Chef Bianco is preparing in house the following foods for us. Isn’t he fabulous to do this for us?!

Biltong (similar to beef jerky)
Piri-Piri Chicken (grilled with red pepper seasoning but not too hot)
Boerewors on the Braii (beef sausages) w/Apricot Dijon Sauce

These small plates will be accompanied by palate cleansing bread or toasted crostini. Please note any food allergies in the notes section of your reservations or email the treasurers with concerns.
You may make reservations via the Shoppe Page of this website. Reservation deadline is Tuesday, August 15th
Member —$70
Patron —$65
Nonmember —$90

The Wines of Sunny Greece
2023-09-29 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
It’s easy to miss Greece as a wine gem because not that much Greek wine is exported. Greeks love their wine just as Italians do; and 90% of production is consumed in Greece. Most know Greece has a long, rich winemaking history, yet Greek wines are often passed by simply because we don’t know much about them—and fear we can’t pronounce the grape names to ask about them. So being risk averse to what the bottle may hold—we move onto our comfort zone and take home another Italian red or French white.
BEFORE you err and pass by this event though, you may want to review some key points about Greek winemaking. First, the wines of Greece are truly European. This is not just an issue of provenance but a matter relating to style and quality. They are a part of the premier European wine league and in terms of quality they belong to the same class as Italian, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German and Austrian wines.
Greece should be approached in the same way as Italy: a large country packed with indigenous varieties and terroirs not found anywhere else. The Greeks and Italians have influenced each other when it comes to wine more than many might think, trading varieties (such as Aglianico) and techniques for centuries.
Most importantly, Greece is a treasure trove of genuine, authentic wine. It’s a part of the country’s history and is imbedded in the soul of every Greek man, woman and child. Just like Italy.
Greek wines are expressive of their distinctive and historic terroirs, bearing all the hallmark characteristics of their Old-World provenance. Hence, the wines are a must-try for all people wishing to explore and taste the wines of the essential vineyards, the grand terroirs of the world.
Historic vineyards with unbroken track records of several millennia abound. Many of these distinctive ecosystems developed through natural selection and are located in areas protected from most vine pests and vine diseases. Therefore, the vast majority of Greek vineyards are suitable for organic cultivation or other alternative methods of viticulture and chemical spraying has been largely eliminated.
Greece is blessed with an amazing array of distinctive and unique terroirs. Greek wine is very distinct and is able to transfer you to the place of its production. The alternation of mountains and countless miles of coast create a varied combination of altitudes, different mesoclimates, orientations, inclinations, aspects and soils. Within a single region there might be several different available terroirs.
Greek wines are some of the best value-for-money buys in the world market today. Along with great quality and affordability, these wines are an inspirational, truly different proposal, based on unique attributes. They are a superb source of enjoyment for people who are offended by blandness and who understand the need for diversity. Greek wine has been made to meet that need since long, long ago.
So, check it out—join us on Friday, September 29th at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg to taste ten wines representative of the variety available from these unique Greek wine regions. Mitigating our fear of tasting new wines and being unable to say the grape names will be our special guest speaker, Ioannis G. Tsapos (Yanni). Yanni, who is a Greek native, will take us through a 10-wine sampling chosen by John Brinjac of Keystone Importers, including some unique wines not on the shelves but available by SLO. We’re excited to share them with you:

Zoinos Brut 100% Debina
Tetramythos Roditis Orange Natur
Tetramythos Retsina Roditis
Avantis Estate Malagousia
Kotrosos Agiorgitiko
Gavalas Santorini Assyrtiko
Bosinakis Moschofilero Mantinia
Tetramythos Phelloe Natur 50% Mavrodaphne, 25% Kalavratino and 25% Agiorgitiko
Foundi Naoussia Xinomavro
Gavalas Vinsanto (Assyrtiko)

Trust us—the wines are as beautiful as the Greek countryside. There will be Greek food to pair with the wines for a true cultural learning experience. Hilton Chef’s small plates will include Grilled Pita, Grilled Feta, Hummus, Spanakopita, Chicken Souvlaki, Lamb Lollipops w/Chimichurri or Mint Yogurt.
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, September 26th.
Member —$95
Patron —$90
Nonmember —$115
You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Please note any food allergies EARLY in the notes section of your reservations or email the treasurers with concerns.

DEADLINE to Register for French Cru Beaujolais
2023-10-17 00:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States

French Cru Beaujolais
2023-10-20 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Get onboard with Beaujolais!
The Beaujolais region is a classified district within France with a centuries-long history of favor among kings and commoners—highly valued. Then, for the past 20 years, nobody’s gonna’ touch it.
Happily for the bargain hunter, its fall from favor has not caught up with the recent decades of unheralded work by its farmers and wine makers! To the wine cognoscenti, the Cru of Beaujolais are suddenly (and probably temporarily) among the few ‘bargains’ available in French wines.
? What happened to bring Beaujolais down to this new low?
? How do you sort the brilliant jewels from the dirt clods?
? How do you read the labels?
? What does a great one taste like?
? And to the Foodie, when I get my hands on a great bottle, what do I pair with a great Beaujolais for just snacks or dinner?
Happiness guaranteed! All mysteries and your personal questions resolved; your taste buds and food-related questions answered on the plate before you. If the delight of Beaujolais has escaped you and you have questions, bring ‘em on! Join Eric Miller as he shares and relives his youth in the back roads of French wine country. Relax and show up for uncommon values and some of the most fun wines in the world!
The Crus of Beaujolais are stand-alone AOCs representing the region’s very best vineyard land. The wines are high-quality, reflecting individual terroirs and showcasing the great potential of the Gamay grape. Across the board, these are structured, complex wines with spicy aromas and the potential to age well.
We showcase these wines Friday, October 20th—7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg. You don’t want to miss this one. Guaranteed GREAT wines, GREAT food, GREAT humor and entertainment from the man—Eric Miller, vintner, author and GREAT guy.
In consultation with the Hilton Chef, we plan three small plate food pairings to complement these wines:
Salmon Brandade with Croûton ~ Frisée with Duck Confit, Pomegranate and Chèvre ~ Grilled Pork Loin with Cherry Demi-Glace
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, October 17th . We are limited to 36 participants due to the number of bottles Eric stashed. I’d say this isn’t one to wait if you want to savor the best of the best Cru Beaujolais. To sweeten the deal Eric is providing several door prizes. Don’t miss this!
Member —$115
Patron —$110
Nonmember —$135
MAKE RESERVATIONS by going to the Shoppe Page of the website.
Please note food allergies in the notes section of your reservations or email the treasurers with concerns.

A Tour of Spanish Wines
2023-11-10 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
A country rich in viticultural history, grape vines have been grown on the Spanish Iberian Peninsula since at least 3000 B.C. It was not until 1000 B.C. that winemaking began in earnest – a skill brought by Phoenician traders from the eastern Mediterranean. Today, the country is home to more vines than any other country and has a national wine output only exceeded by France and Italy.
Historically, winemaking culture throughout Spain was very rustic. Oxidized styles are common as well as the heavy use of American oak for lengthy periods of barrel ageing. However, in the past few decades, Spain’s wine industry has engaged in a great deal of modernization and an embrace of New World techniques. The result has been a significant improvement in quality and reliability.
Topography plays a fundamental role in defining Spain’s many wine styles. From cool, green Galicia and the snow-capped Pyrenees in the north, via the parched central plateau, to sandy, sunny Andalucia in the south, the Spanish landscape is very diverse. The cool vineyards of the far north and northwest create light, crisp, white wines, exemplified by Rías Baixas and particularly Txakoli. Those in warmer, drier regions further inland tend towards mid-bodied, fruit-driven reds such as Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Bierzo. Those close to the Mediterranean can produce heavier, more powerful reds except in higher altitudes, where reduced heat and humidity allow the production of lighter reds and, of course, white sparkling Cava.
Our tour guide for this event is Federico-Martin Pisani. Federico, a Belgium native, studied international trade as an undergrad. He also holds a Masters Degree in International Business from UCLM, Albacete, Spain. With this background and an interest in wine, he’s enjoyed two decades in the industry as Export Manager, Horticoalba, Albacete; Export Director at Morgante SL – Bodegas Cristo de la Vega, Albacete/Socuéllamos/La Mancha; and now the Export Director at Neleman Organic Vineyards, Valencia.
Our event Friday, November 10th at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg features ten wines, five from Federico’s organic portfolio and five from Keystone Importer’s portfolio in order to examine wines from Spain’s major regions and best-known grapes.
Spanish wines demand Tapas—yes? So, accompanying our wines is Manchego, Prosciutto Grapes, Spiced Almond Chorizo, Olives, Heirloom Tomato Puff Pastry and Beef Empañadas with Chile Sauce. This sounds like a great menu!
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, November 7th .
Member —$80
Patron —$75
Nonmember —$100
You may MAKE RESERVATIONS via the SHOPPE PAGE of this website.
Please note any food allergies EARLY in the notes section of your reservations or email the treasurers with concerns.

EVENT CANCELED - Binah Fine Wines of the Mid-Atlantic
2024-01-28 14:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | PA

Deadline to Register for Exploring the Rich History of Zinfandel
2024-02-13 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States

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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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 (America/New_York) | 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
