Pennsylvania Wine Society

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines for Cinco de Mayo
2022-05-04 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Sure, we did this last year, but there are certainly enough pairing possibilities to prop up another Cinco de Mayo wine pairing. Whether it’s something from the American Southwest, or Mexico, or just something that pairs with your favorite tacos or burritos, tell us all about your favorite wines (and, foods!) for Cinco de Mayo!
All details for each individual event are posted here closer to the actual event and distributed to PWS members via e-mail in advance of the event each week.
Please check back here the week of the event for Zoom connection information.
Most important is to reserve your Wednesday evenings now for this fun and interesting exploration of wine!

Pennsylvania Wine Excellence Tasting and Awards Ceremony XIX
2022-05-01 14:00 - 17:00 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
20 years ago, Frank Fritsch told me he thought we should be doing something to recognize the Pennsylvania wineries. He especially felt we should encourage them to make the kind of wines we like to drink. I had learned a lot about judging wines from attending American Wine Society conferences and a few other wine events that involved a jury, so that we made a good pair. We put together the first judging which was a great success and then presented the top scoring wines at a tasting. We’ve had the judging and a tasting event every year since until Covid came along.
This year we will have our presentation of the top ten wines along with our ceremony where we announce the top scorer and the runner up. We will also hear from the winery representatives who will tell us about conditions in the vineyard, as well as decisions made in the winery that led to their outstanding wine. Attendees will taste the top 10, and at the end of the afternoon we will announce the winners. The top scorer gets our beautiful decorative plaque to hang on the wall at the winery; the runner up is awarded a framed plaque. Come and enjoy the tasting, be pleased by what Pennsylvania has to offer, and cheer the winners!
The top 10 wines in alphabetical order:
Armstrong Valley Cabernet Franc
Armstrong Valley Chambourcin
Bella Terra Estate Briar Valley Lemberger
Presque Isle Lake Erie Teroldego
South Shore Sparkling Riesling
South Shore Chardonnay
South Shore Pet Nat Rosé
Waltz Cabernet Franc
Waltz Chardonnay
Waltz Cherry Tree Merlot
Join us at the Hilton Harrisburg on Sunday, May 1st at 2:00 p.m. to recognize and celebrate the fine efforts of our Pennsylvania wineries.
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All Center for Disease Control and Pennsylvania Department of Health distancing and safety precautions as well as the Hilton Harrisburg’s practices and policies will be followed as we are their guests. Tables of 4 persons each may be reserved via communication with your reservation notes, or email to the Treasurers. Click here for reservations.

Member: $55 Patron: $50 Nonmember: $65

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Western Europe
2022-04-27 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday offering on April 27th at 7:00 pm Eastern will feature Wines from Western Europe. After our foray into Eastern American wines and wines from other random North American States and Provinces, we all deserve a trip across the pond for one of our favorite wines from the Old World. Pick anything you want from France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, or any of the lesser-known traditional winemaking regions of Western Europe (Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, and so on).
So, grab a bottle of Western European wine and join us on Wednesday, April 27th at 7:00 pm Eastern for Wine Wednesday! As usual, send a photo of the front and back label of your bottle to WineCat@pa.net by Tuesday evening at the latest for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide presentation.
No reservation needed – simply send your label photos and then join us close to 7:00 pm Wednesday via the Zoom link below. We look forward to seeing you then!

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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from any State or Province not Previously Featured
2022-04-20 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday offering on April 20th at 7:00 pm Eastern will feature wines from any North American State or Province not previously featured. There are many States and Provinces remaining that we have not touched upon during the last weeks of exploring United States wines. So, pick one! We know there are tasty wines being produced in States like Virginia, New Mexico, Texas, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Missouri, and several Canadian Provinces. Let’s see who can send off our tour of the US with a surprising offering from a State or Province heretofore not featured!
To refresh your recall – we’ve already featured CA, NY, OR, PA, and WA – so those are the only areas out of bounds this week. So, grab a bottle of North American wine and join us on Wednesday, April 20th at 7:00 pm Eastern for Wine Wednesday! As usual, send a photo of the front and back label of your bottle to WineCat@pa.net by Tuesday evening at the latest for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide presentation.
No reservations needed – simply send your label photos and join us via the Zoom link below close to 7 pm Wednesday. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Pennsylvania and Other Eastern American Wines
2022-04-13 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday offering on April 13th at 7:00 pm Eastern will feature Pennsylvania and other Eastern American wines. Some of us may crinkle their noses when they think about wines made in the Commonwealth or other States east of the West Coast, but there are enough great wine producers around the Pennsylvania Wine Society’s home-based State and the other many contiguous Eastern American States that I am sure we all have something we enjoy at home or when we are out and about at an event. Tell us where you go and what you drink when you consume Pennsylvania and other Eastern American wines!
So, grab a bottle of Pennsylvania or Eastern American wine and join us on Wednesday, April 13th at 7:00 pm Eastern for Wine Wednesday! As usual, send a photo of the front and back label of your bottle to WineCat@pa.net by Tuesday evening at the latest for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide presentation. We look forward to seeing you then!
No reservations needed – simply send your labels by Tuesday evening and join via the Zoom link below close to 7 pm Eastern/New York time on Wednesday.

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Wines of South West France
2022-04-10 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Virtual Wine Education event takes place on Sunday, April 10th at 3:30 pm Eastern on Zoom (link shown below). On the French side of the Pyrenees lies Gascony – the land of many tribes. That land would become known as a quality wine producing region. With Bordeaux to its North, the Bordelaise had passed regulations known as ‘Police de Vin’ ensuring its Bordeaux region wines preferentially made it to market before those of South West France and it seems that, to this day, while those rules are long past, we tend to forget about the wine growing regions of Irouleguy, Bearn, Madiran, Juracon, Cahors and Gaillac. As an aside you may recognize the region’s more famous brandy – Armagnac. We will take a look at the history and wines of these less-famous areas that call themselves “the quiet Southern neighbors of Bordeaux.”
Join us on Sunday, April 10th at 3:30 pm Eastern on Zoom (link shown below) with a bottle of wine from any of the aforementioned areas of South West France as we explore an ancient winemaking region where wines are of excellent quality, though lesser-known and somewhat underappreciated.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from the State of New York
2022-04-06 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
New York State brought recognition and established prominence to New York State as a winemaking region as early as the 1930’s and has since driven a stake in the ground as a world-class producer of (among other varieties) Riesling! Tell us about some of your favorite New York State wines and/or wine regions, from the Finger Lakes to the Hudson Valley and all points in between!
All details for each individual event are posted here closer to the actual event and distributed to PWS members via e-mail in advance of the event each week.
Please check back here the week of the event for Zoom connection information.
Most important is to reserve your Wednesday evenings now for this fun and interesting exploration of wine!

Touring Austria’s Wines **SOLD OUT**
2022-04-01 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This EVENT is SOLD OUT. If you’d like to join a Wait List to be called in case of cancellations – please contact the Treasurers.
Is there anything that overwhelms with a sensation of FRESH better than the first nose of a good Austrian Grüner Veltliner in your glass? I think not. Lots of lovely crisp whites out there – but oh my – this is spectacular in a glass. And it reminded me that PWS hasn’t featured Austrian wines in some time. And so here it is – our April 1st absolutely not foolish event! Austrian wines—both white and red—are some of the best kept secrets for springtime or anytime sipping.
We invite you to ‘embrace the umlaut’ and join us April 1, at the Hilton Harrisburg, 7 p.m. for an introductory tour of some of the wine world’s greatest cool-climate wines. Austrian wines are vibrant with a range of flavors to match our favorite foods of the season, from schnitzel to sushi. Austria is the world leader in organic farming. Family farms still dominate the winemaking scene, making quality the focus rather than mass production. Our tour guide for the evening is Mariel Wega from Skurnik Wines & Spirits, an importer and distributor headquartered in New York City whose goal is to search the globe to assemble the finest portfolio of estate-bottled wines and spirits available. Mariel has worked in the restaurant and wine industry for the better part of the last two decades as a sommelier, recommending wines in some of Philadelphia’s top restaurants for over ten years and was named one of Wine Enthusiast’s Best New Sommeliers of 2016. Mariel has chosen the ten wines listed below for us to enjoy; all of which will be coded in the PLCB system for your purchase of your favorites following the event. We will pair these with cheeses, baguettes, and small plates of Kasesspatzle and Goulash-Braised Beef prepared by Hilton Chef Bianco.
Nigl Sekt Rose 2016 Kremstal. Austria’s answer to Champagne. Delicate and racy sparkling rose with strawberries and cream on the palate.
Gobelsburg Grüner Veltliner ‘Schlosskellerei’ 2020 Kamptal. From some of the oldest documented vineyards in the Kamptal, dating back to 1171. Extremely fragrant with notes of juicy mirabelle plum. Crisp, green, refreshing.
Hiedler ‘Langenlois’ Riesling Kamptal DAC 2020 Kamptal. An excellent, dry village-level Riesling from the Hiedler family, a founding member of the ÖTW and one of the drivers of Austria’s vineyard classification since 1992.
Nikolaihof Grüner Veltliner ‘Zwickl’ 2020 Wachau. Nikolaihof holds some of the oldest known vineyards in Europe with sites such as “im Weingebirge” being mentioned as far back as 470AD. This is a fun, playful unfiltered Grüner.
Heidi Schröck & Söhne Gelber Muskateller 2020 Rüst. An aromatic white that will put a smile on your face from Heidi Schrock, one of the few women to be awarded Falstaff Vintner of the year. White flowers, lemon verbena, chamomile and herbs.
Bründlmayer Riesling ‘Zöbinger Heiligenstein’ Erste Lage 2020 Kamptal. A top site for Riesling on 250 million-year-old Permian desert sandstone with feldspar (volcanic) and siltstone. Bründlmayer is arguably one of the best Austrian winemakers of the last 25 years.
Hirsch Grüner Veltliner ‘Ried Kammern Gaisberg’ Erste Lage 2019 Kamptal. From the highly regarded “Gaisberg” premier cru vineyard, this wine is herbal with a stunning mouth feel that is creamy yet invigorating with a ton of mineral freshness.
Glatzer Blaufränkisch 2018 Carnuntum. Lip-smacking juiciness, peppers and blackberries; this is exactly what basic Blaufränkisch should be, and there couldn’t be a better introduction to this fascinating variety.
Berger Zweigelt 2020 Kremstal. One of the best values in Austria: juicy and bright, loaded with crunchy red berry fruit, tart cherry, and cranberry.
Sattler St Laurent 2020 Burgenland. This traditional Austrian variety is an offspring of Pinot Noir. Silky with spicy dark cherry fruit.
Heidi Schröck Beerenauslese 2020 Rüst. A very special and elegant sweet wine made from selected berries from various vineyards on the estate. Amber colored with flavors of apricot, orange, and passion fruit, a complex and concentrated beauty.
This is a higher priced event due to the unique opportunity to taste Austrian wines not previously available in Pennsylvania stores, and pair them with Austrian-style foods while learning more about cool-climate grape growing and winemaking. Space is limited by Hilton space, safe distancing, and wine availability; so plan now to join us at 7 p.m. Friday, April 1st at the Hilton Harrisburg for this fun and educational tour. It will be a great way to kick off spring in Pennsylvania!
100% current, complete COVID 19 vaccination proof is required to confirm event reservations. All Center for Disease Control and Pennsylvania Department of Health distancing and safety precautions as well as the Hilton Harrisburg’s practices and policies will be followed as we are their guests. Tables of four persons each may be reserved via communication with your reservation notes, or an e-mail to the Treasurers. Click here to reserve seats online. We look forward to sharing these wines and food with you!
Members: $95 Patrons: $90 Nonmembers: $105

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Northern California
2022-03-30 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next installment of Wine Wednesday on March 30th takes us to Northern California’s vast wine regions! What do you know about this wine region? That is your research assignment for this chapter of Wine Wednesday! You may already have a favorite region in Northern California, such as Alexander Valley, Russian River Valley, Carneros, Calistoga, Rutherford, or one of the many others. Tell us! What is your go to wine for that region? What is your favorite AVA? We would love to know!
As usual, send photos of the front and back labels of the wine you plan to feature next Wednesday, and send those photos to WineCat@pa.net by 11 pm Tuesday for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show! The wine choices from which to choose are almost endless! We look forward to learning more about the wine you plan to highlight! Join us on March 30th at 7:00 pm for next week’s Wine Wednesday!
No reservations needed – simply join us close to 7 pm Wednesday via the Zoom link below.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Oregon
2022-03-23 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our Wine Wednesday episode for March 23rd at 7:00 pm Eastern pertains to a relatively “new” wine growing region on the northwest coast of the United States. That region is the State of Oregon, which has built a reputation for its Pinot Noir wines and, for white wine enthusiasts, its Pinot Gris. Still developing its reputation, this region has come on very strong since the 1960’s and will continue to advance and grow well into the future! So, get ready to explore some excellent wines!
Grab yourself an example of wine from Oregon and join us for Wine Wednesday this coming week on March 23rd at 7:00 pm Eastern. As usual, send photos of your wine bottle labels to WineCat@pa.net by 11 pm Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint Parade of Pics!
No reservations needed – just join us close to 7:00 pm Wednesday via the Zoom link below. We hope to see you then.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Washington State
2022-03-16 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday on March 16th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time will examine the wines from Washington State. Such a vast expanse of potential wine growing acreage, Washington State is only scratching the surface of what it will eventually achieve, both in terms of grape varieties that are continually being added to their region as well as to the absolutely wonderful wines that they are producing now! This region delivers so many wines that punch over their weight and it has become a favorite of many!
As always, please send photos of the front and back labels of the wine you choose to feature to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in Wednesday’s PowerPoint presentation.
No reservation needed – simply email your label photos and join via the Zoom link below at 7:00 pm Eastern Time on Wednesday.
I look forward to seeing you.
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Winemaking for Mere Mortals!
2022-03-13 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
On Sunday, March 13th at 3:30 pm Eastern (New York) Time, the Pennsylvania Wine Society will feature Virtual Wine Education event on winemaking. But this segment will be a departure from the programs you have come to know from the PWS. It will be a one-hour overview of winemaking at home, as performed by award-winning amateur winemaker Kevin Donnelly.
It discusses grape varietals, fruit wine (“country wine”) options, the equipment needed, the basic chemistry involved, and winemaking procedures. During this segment, Kevin will demonstrate how people at home can emulate the “big guys” at commercial wineries, resulting in high quality wines that are often as good as, or even superior to, the quality of commercial wines.
Kevin will discuss costs involved, starting as low as $300, and how you can grow your hobby as your interest and proficiency grows.
This is a great introduction to a centuries old tradition that will show you how you can get involved in becoming a bona fide Winemaker of quality wines that you would be proud to serve to your family and friends!
Kevin Donnelly has been a home winemaker since 2003, and consistently wines multiple awards from various Home Wine Competitions, including 2018 Best of Show “Golden Bear” award from the California State Fair. Kevin has been the chairman of the OC Fair’s Home Wine Competition for five years and continues as a board member of the Orange County Wine Society in California.
Please join us on Sunday, March 13th at 3:30 pm Eastern (New York) Time to take in this feature. It is sure to be enjoyable and informative!
No reservations needed. You can join in on the Zoom link shown below.
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Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and the Eastern American Vinifera Revolution
2022-03-11 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
On Friday, March 11th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time at the Hilton Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania Wine Society we will host a pandemically-postponed wine tasting event featuring the wines of Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Keuka Lake, Finger Lakes, NY. Originally scheduled for March 2020, we have carried this event on our books for what will be two full years! But, finally, the PWS is delighted to announce that we have been able to maintain the quoted prices from two years ago, in spite of rising costs. Seating has been filling up rapidly and we urge that reservations be made soon to assure a spot!
By way of some background, Dr. Konstantin Frank and his family immigrated to the United States in 1951 from Ukraine, bringing with him decades of knowledge and experience growing vinifera grapes. He arrived in the Finger Lakes to take a position with the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in 1952. When he questioned the scientists why vinifera grapes were not being gown, he was informed of the long-held North American belief at that time that it was just too cold to grow vinifera grapes in the Finger Lakes. But, Dr. Frank knew differently, having grown thousands of acres of vinifera grapes in the very cold climate of The Ukraine.
In 1958, Dr. Frank purchased 188 acres on the western shore of Lake Keuka for $6,000. It was here that he successfully planted the first vinifera vines in the Eastern United States. Many of those Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines are still in production today and represent some of the oldest vines in America.
Meaghan Frank, Dr. Frank’s great-granddaughter, will join us on Friday, March 11th via Zoom to introduce the event and share the history of her fascinating great-grandfather, her family, and their winery.
Mark Veraguth, Dr. Frank Winery Head Winemaker, has selected 9 wines for us to taste. He will be joining us in person for this event to guide us through the tasting of each wine and share his insights into their creation. The list of wines Mark has chosen for us is sure to please and includes:
Brut 2018 – Our “warm up wine” for the evening. Sophisticated and elegant, the aromas jump out of the glass expressing baked red apple, ginger, lemon curd, wildflowers, apricot, and biscuit notes. Bright lemon-driven acidity and very fine mousse leave a creamy mouthfeel with exquisite length. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions. Pair with oysters, lobster, smoked salmon, fried foods, egg dishes, sushi, popcorn, or seafood dishes.
Gruner Veltliner 2020 – Lime and green apple are held in sleek suspension by a stony minerality. With touches of pepper on the finish, it’s full in the mouth and quite powerful. It succeeds as it is very expressive while maintaining its focus and precision. Pair with Asparagus (Grilled), Cheese (Blue, Rich or Stinky), Pork (Grilled, Fried), Scallops (Sauteed), Sushi, Thai Cuisine.
Rkatsiteli 2021 – Elegant, aromatic, and tropical with apricot, passion fruit, pineapple, and honeydew with undertones of ginger, white pepper, and a touch of grassiness. A great alternative for Sauvignon Blanc drinkers. Pair with Olives, Goat Cheeses, Sushi, Seafood, Salads (Citrus, Vinaigrette), Grilled White Meats, BBQ.
Dry Rosé 2021 – This vibrant pink rosé is energetic with fresh strawberries, passion fruit, hibiscus, orange and plums. The freshness from the Blaufränkisch is matched with a deep texture and red fruits from the Merlot and Cabernets, producing a wine that can stand up to fattier dishes. Pair with Charcuterie, White Fish (Grilled), Pork (Grilled), Salads, Shrimp (Grilled), Sausage (Grilled), Grillable foods like Hamburgers and Hotdogs.
Dry Riesling 2020 – Ripe and tropical, harmonizing fresh lime juice, fresh citrus and petrol stoniness from the Keuka vineyards with cantaloupe and tangerine from the Seneca vineyards. Behind the zingy freshness are a rich body and a discreet creaminess which form a well-balanced union ideal for long-term aging. Pair with Soft Cheeses, Chicken, White Fish, Salad (Green Fruits, Seafood), Green Vegetable Dishes, Sushi.
Semi-dry Riesling 2020 – Delicate at first then tropically ripe, brimming with apricot, nectarine and a touch of pineapple. Lemon citrus and acacia blossom balance the sweetness effortlessly. Pair with Middle Eastern, Moroccan, Thai, and Asian cuisines. Pairs well with Spicy and Aromatic Ingredients like Pepper, Ginger, Curry, Sesame, and Soy. Spicy BBQ and Wings.
Blaufrankish 2019 – Leading with fresh plums and blueberries with vivid violet scents, the wine evolves from its bright and fruity core to a spicy richness on the palate. Smoked Sausage, Spaetzle, Tomato-based sauces, Hard Cheeses, Lighter Meats like Veal, Pork, and Lamb.
Cabernet Franc 2019 – Juicy and generous, spiced black cherry aromas are lifted with earthiness and cedar. Powerful and elegant simultaneously, the dark currants and plum flavors are firm with polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Pan-Seared Duck Breast, Grilled Lamb, Seared Filet Mignon, Steak Frites, Eggplant Dishes, Bell Peppers, StrongFlavored Cheeses, Roasted Vegetables.
Saperavi 2019 – Vibrant violet in color with pronounced notes of plum, black cherry, earth, cedar, and smoke. Full-bodied with polished tannins. Juicy acidity lifts the flavors on the long finish.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required by all attendees to confirm event reservations. All CDC and PA Department of Health social distancing precautions as well as the Harrisburg Hilton’s safety precautions and policies will be followed. Seating will be limited to 4 people per table. If you wish to reserve a table for 4, you may do so in the notes section of your online reservation or by emailing asst-treasurer@pawinesociety.org.
This event takes place at the Hilton Harrisburg at 1 N. Second Street, Harrisburg, PA on Friday, March 11th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time. Indoor parking is available and preferred at the Walnut Street Parking Garage at a heavily discounted price for all event attendees by having the hotel front desk personnel stamp your parking ticket.
Online reservations may be purchased at pawinesocciety.org. Pricing is as follows:
Members: $55 Patrons: $50 Nonmembers: $65

Wine Wednesday ~ The Rioja Region of Spain
2022-03-09 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next installment of Wine Wednesday on March 9th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time embraces the wines that emanate from the Rioja region of Spain. The Rioja (phonetic spelling RREE’-OH’-hah) is the oldest Designation of Origin in Spain (1925) and the first to earn Calificada status (1991). A broad yet landlocked geographic expanse stretching from west to east across the northcentral reaches of Spain, the Rioja is really three subregions representing three distinct terroir. Rioja is perhaps the most recognized Spanish wine region among Americans and is best known for berry-scented, barrel-aged red wines made from Tempranillo and Garnacha. It is arguably Spain’s top wine region. It is certainly the most famous, rivaled only by Jerez. There are so many other noteworthy Spanish wine regions, but we begin with Rioja, which requires much exploration before we move on to other Spanish wine regions later this year. So, enjoy Rioja while we linger in it for now!
So, please secure a bottle of wine from the Rioja region and join us on Wednesday, March 9th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time for this week’s iteration of Wine Wednesday! And, please remember to send pictures of your wine bottle’s front and back labels to WineCat@pa.net for inclusion in this coming week’s PowerPoint slide presentation. Please do so no later than Tuesday evening, March 8th.
We look forward to seeing you this Wednesday on March 9th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time for Wine Wednesday!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Tuscany, Italy
2022-03-02 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday on March 2nd at 7:00 pm Eastern (New York) Time features “the Wines of Tuscany, Italy”. Tuscany is the land of the Sangiovese grape. This wine region is located on the western coast of central Italy and is home to Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano red wines and Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine. Such richness! And then, there are the Super Tuscans to explore! All in good time. Let’s take them one at a time as we taste and discuss!
So, secure a bottle of wine from Tuscany, Italy and join us on the Zoom link shown below. As usual, please send pictures of the front and back labels to your bottle and send them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday for inclusion in this week’s PowerPoint slide show. We look forward to seeing you on Wine Wednesday this week on March 2nd at 7:00 pm Eastern Time!
No reservations needed – just send your labels and join us near 7 PM Wednesday via the Zoom link below!
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Wine Wednesday ~ The Veneto Region of Italy
2022-02-23 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our topic for Wine Wednesday on February 23rd at 7:00 pm Eastern time examines the wines of Veneto, Italy. This region is in the northeastern corner of “the boot” that describes the peninsula that is Italy. It is generally a cooler climate for growing grapes. The Veneto region produces more whites than reds under the DOC designation and is notably home to the Prosecco and Soave wines. However, continued recognition for other wines from the region, such as Valpolicella, Amarone, Soave and Bardolino, help keep Veneto in the spotlight.
The red wines of Veneto are also identified with several techniques which are used to increase body, structure and intensity to various of the wines. Such processes as Ripasso and Appassimento yield stunning results that we will discuss this week.
So, secure a bottle of wine from this region and join us for Wine Wednesday on February 23rd at 7:00 pm Eastern time to learn “the rest of the story.” And, as always, please take photos of the front and back labels of your bottle and email them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in our PowerPoint slide presentation. We look forward to seeing you!
No reservations needed – simply send your label photos and join us via the Zoom link below close to 7 p.m. Eastern/New York time Wednesday.

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Godforsaken Grapes II ~ Wines of Lesser-Known Grapes
2022-02-18 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Preparing for this event has been a lot of fun. I began selecting and setting aside wines in anticipation of staging Godforsaken Grapes II almost immediately after the first Godforsaken Grapes event concluded on February 18th of 2020. That was before the shutdown in March 2020, which seems like a million years ago. It has been an especially long time because the pandemic forced us to postpone plans for a Godforsaken Grapes event in February 2021.
To refresh your collective memory, allow me to make a brief explanation of the premise for this upcoming event. It is based on Jason Wilson’s book “Godforsaken Grapes”, in which he chronicles a two-year effort to track down wines from the world over that are made from lesser known, rare, and sometimes nearly extinct grape varieties. Many of the wines are varietals, i.e., wines named after the grape variety. So, the name of the grape says it all. It’s all about the grapes!
In the intervening two years since February 2020, I collected nearly thirty prospective wines from which to assemble this year’s program. My co-host Joe Via and I got together several Saturdays ago and set about the task of determining which eleven wines we would present to our audience. I had already whittled down the field of possibilities to eighteen wines before Joe and I convened.
I arrived at Joe’s home in mid-morning, and we set about our task with gusto! What you may not realize is the difficulty of the task with which we were faced. Perhaps the best way to explain this is to tell you the names of the delicious wines that were runners-up to the eleven finalists. The wines that did not make the cut:
Aligote (White) France – Burgundy’s “other” white grape.
Gros Manseng (White) France – A delightful South France variety.
Marselan (Red) France –A fuller-bodied French red with notes of dark cherry.
Pais (Red) Chile – One of two Pais we considered (also known as the Mission grape).
Rkatsiteli (White) Georgia – An ancient and thoroughly delicious cold-climate grape).
Scheurebe (White) Germany – It’s not all about Riesling in Germany!
Vernaccia (White) Italy – Another ancient grape and a rare Tuscan white.

This was a painful process of elimination, but we were very pleased with the prospects of the eleven finalists! So, beginning with our warmup wine and then following through with five whites and five reds, our field for Godforsaken Grapes II on Friday, February 18th is as follows:
Glera – (White) Sparkling — From northeastern Italy; grape used to make Prosecco.
Cortese – (White) Italy – Fruity on the nose, minerality on the palate.
Falanghina – (White) Italy – “Yumminess”, ripeness, flavor of the grape shows through.
Furmint – (White) Hungary – Simply outstanding! Very subtly oaked.
Rotgipfler – (White) Austria – Organic, spicy nose, crisp, fruity.
Sauvignonasse – (White) Slovenia – A French grape known as Sauvignon Vert.
Aglianico – (Red) Italy – A big wine with good fruit and tannins.
Lagrein – (Red) Italy – Medium to full bodied, rich and earthy.
Pais – (Red) Chile – The Pais we liked the best; a lighter red with easy drinkability.
Schiava – (Red) Italy – A totally balanced, smooth medium to full-bodied red.
Tannat – (Red) Uruguay – Another French grape from South France that excels in Uruguay.
You may notice that six of our eleven grapes are from Italy. This should not be much of a secret, as literally 25% of the world’s recognized wine grapes are indigenous to Italy. This is primarily due to the Romans’ influence and their love of wines of every type.
I must hasten to add that we will have door prizes again during this sequel of Godforsaken Grapes; but, this time, we will be giving away wines! Those wonderful wines that didn’t make the cut… well, we want you to experience them, even though they are not part of the evening’s package. So, every attendee will leave with a bottle of delicious wine!
Plan to attend this event, folks! If you were at the first Godforsaken Grapes in February 2020, then you know you will have a great time! My co-host and good friend Joe Via will be at the top of his game and we cannot wait to introduce you to eleven wines made from grapes that you may never have tasted before! So, join us to experience and savor these wines and learn about the grapes behind them!
Reservations for this event can be made online on the Pennsylvania Wine Society website at pawinesociety.org But don’t wait! Seating is capped at 48 attendees and seating is at a premium! Seating will also be at 4-top tables with adequate social distancing between tables.
100% complete COVID 19 vaccination proof is required to confirm event reservations. All Center for Disease Control and Pennsylvania Department of Health distancing and safety precautions as well as the Hilton Harrisburg’s practices and policies will be followed as we are their guests. Tables of 4 persons each may be reserved via communication with your reservation notes, or e-mail to the Treasurers.
This event takes place at the Hilton Harrisburg at 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA on Friday evening, February 18th at 7:00 p.m. EST. Indoor parking is available and preferred at the Walnut Street Parking Garage at a discounted price for all event attendees by having the hotel front desk personnel stamp your parking ticket. Please join us! Click here for reservations.
Members: $50 Patrons: $45 Nonmembers: $60

Wine Wednesday ~ Piemonte, Italy
2022-02-16 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
This week’s Wine Wednesday episode on February 16th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern focuses on one of my most favorite wine regions in the whole world, i.e. that of Piemonte (Italy). This region is in the northwest of Italy and is bordered on the western side by a mountain range that separates Italy and France. It is also the homeland of my maternal ancestors, many of whom were from Asti and the agrarian towns and villages to the southeast of Asti. When my grandpap told me that he grew up on a farm, I asked him what they grew. His answer was, “Grapes!”
It is difficult for me to pin down my favorite wines from Piemonte. Owing to the influence of the Romans, roughly 25% of the world’s recognized wine grape varieties are indigenous to Italy. Thus, no matter where you go in Italy, you will find local wine grapes growing everywhere! This translates into endless wine varietals. Piemonte is no slouch when it comes to grape varieties and wine varietals. And, there are almost as many white wines from which to choose as there are reds.
So, spend some time, do the research, and you will be amazed at the wines Piemonte has to offer! Then, meet us on the Zoom link below on Wednesday, February 16th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time for Wine Wednesday! Arm yourself with a suitable bottle of wine from Piemonte and, as always, send photos of the front and back labels from your wine bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in Wednesday night’s PowerPoint slide show.
No reservation needed – simply join us close to 7 p.m. Wednesday via the Zoom link below. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Board of Directors Meeting
2022-02-15 18:30 - 20:30 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Board meetings are virtual via Zoom. Active, dues paid current Members may attend as guests. Please contact the President if you are interested in attending a meeting.

Château Maris Wines from the Cordier Portfolio
2022-02-13 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Please join Marty Cook, PWS President, and our guest Gregg Mutschler, Director of National Distribution for Cordier USA on Sunday, February 13, 2022, at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time, to enjoy wines from the Languedoc region of France. Cordier USA is the U.S based importer of global wine producer Cordier by Invivo. Cordier USA’s core business is sustainable and family-owned French vineyards. Their vertically integrated global wine sourcing, as well as sales and marketing expertise, provide unique “Vineyard to Market” wine solutions. The close relationships they maintain with their producers, distributors, retailers and consumers allows Cordier USA to offer the finest products, in line with customer expectations.
Cordier’s portfolio producer chosen for this event is Château Maris. Perhaps the world’s greenest wine project, Château Maris is located in the heart of the Languedoc, where the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees mountains come together. Nestled in the foothills of the Black Mountains, Maris is a Certified Biodyvin, Demeter, Biodynamic 120-acre estate that uses only native yeast, bottles without fining or filtering, and plows with Percheron horses. It has built the world’s first and only hemp cellar: a sustainable, recyclable, plant-based building; completely biodegradable, self-sufficient in energy, and carbon negative.
Maris’ winemaker and owner, Robert Eden is the nephew of former UK Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden, and a direct descendant of Lord Baltimore. He started his career rather early by getting expelled from school for illegally brewing beer in his dorm. Because (or, thanks to) this, his father shipped him off to Australia where he found himself at the age of 17 pruning vines in the Barossa. After a stint in Tuscany and many years working with Becky Wasserman in Burgundy, he purchased Château Maris in 1998. Robert is a recognized authority on Organic and Biodynamic viticulture, giving lectures on the need to reduce the negative impact on the environment from non-sustainable farming. He was one of three winemakers invited to participate to the COP21 Climate Change Conference in Paris in 2015. Wine Enthusiast reported, “There are organic, sustainable and environmentally minded winemakers, and then there’s Robert Eden. No one in France can compete.”
Every label bearing Maris’ name is Certified Organic at a minimum, low sulfites (under 100 ppm), chemical free, and has no additives. Maris is also the first and only B-Corp Certified European winery, one of the most rigorous sustainability and social responsibility certifications in the world. Maris is a philosophy come to life with straightforward preparations yielding complex wines. The vineyard areas are alluvial soils – a mix of schist, sandstone, quartz and limestone. This makes for a varied terroir that allows each grape to best express itself. The winemaking uses all-indigenous yeasts and concrete tanks are often used for fermentation. Robert Eden’s wines have been described as “a testament to the practices of letting the land speak through the vines, and letting the grapes express the land”.
Featured wines for our event include an elegant, mouth filling Vermentino; a Syrah-Grenache-Mourvèdre blend with delicious, supple, bright red-fruit flavors; and a full-bodied Syrah-Grenache blend showcasing silky tannins and savory dark fruit. We look forward to hearing more about and tasting these wines with you!
Wine Ordering: Order early to receive your wines prior to the event. (Also consider this week’s temperatures are forecast to be milder for shipping.) You may order and ship wines through Wine.com. Links to each of the specific wines’ pages on the Wine.com website follow below. Click a link, place the wine in your cart, and continue with the next wine. I completed my order in less than 10 minutes. If you’re new to Wine.com, some first-time discounts are often offered, so be sure to take advantage of those.
Here are the links to each wine on Wine.com:
https://www.wine.com/product/chateau-maris-la-touge-2018/757090
https://www.wine.com/product/chateau-maris-vermentino-2019/638651
https://www.wine.com/product/chateau-maris-zulu-2019/707665

How to join us: No reservation needed. Simply grab your wines and join us via the Zoom link below close to 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time on Sunday, February 13; sit back and enjoy!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Indigenous Grapes
2022-02-09 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday episode on February 9th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time is “Wines from Indigenous Grapes.” This topic almost screams “Italy!” The Italian peninsula is home to nearly 25% of the world’s 1,200+ recognized wine grape varieties. But, many other wine regions and countries can also claim a number of wine grapes as indigenous to their wine growing regions. Determining a grape variety’s place of origin has become far easier in light of the modern-day work of geneticists in the field of ampelography, which is the science concerned with the identification and classification of grapevines. So, do your research, because a Tanat from Uruguay is not an example of an indigenous grape. Neither is Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley an example of an indigenous grape. Nor is Sauvignon Blanc indigenous to New Zealand. This is an exercise in finding the roots of the varietal that you are drinking!
Please join us this week for Wine Wednesday on February 9th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time when we explore the genealogy, so to speak, of your favorite varietal! And, as we do every week, send photos of the front and back of your wine bottle labels to WineCat@pa.net by 11 pm Tuesday for inclusion in this week’s PowerPoint slide show, which is when you will have your 3 minutes of fame as you feature your chosen indigenous varietal! We look forward to seeing you then!
No reservation needed – simply join us via the Zoom link below close to 7pm Wednesday evening.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Cool Climate Grapes
2022-02-02 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Many grapes are what we call “cool climate grapes.” Think Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Rkatsiteli. Also consider a number of cooler climate hybrid grapes like Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, and Marquette. Such grapes reflect their true typicity when grown in cooler growing regions. These grapes can also grow in warmer regions; but, the desired flavor profile will be considerably different, and that is not a bad thing. It just yields a different outcome.
Our next installment of Wine Wednesday on February 2nd at 7:00 pm Eastern Time features wines made from the grapes we know as “cool climate grapes.” The cold, hard truth is that cool and cold areas are best suited for white wine production because white grapes generally ripen earlier and they are more forgiving, flexible and adaptable in the hands of a talented winemaker to make a good wine over a wider range of maturity than would red grapes grown in the same cool or cold area. With new viticulture technology in the form of cold-hardy and disease-resistant hybrid grape varieties, the possibility of growing fine wines has expanded into cool and cold areas that were previously thought to be inaccessible to wine production.
So, pick up a bottle of your favorite cooler or even colder climate wine made from cool climate grapes and join us for Wine Wednesday on February 2nd at 7:00 pm Eastern Time and share your thoughts about your wine with us! And, as usual, take photos of your bottle’s front and back labels and email them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint presentation.
No reservations needed – just join us close to 7 PM Wednesday Eastern/New York time via the Zoom link below. We look forward to seeing you then!

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PA Wine Excellence Awards Event POSTPONED to May 1st!
2022-01-30

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines of Sicily
2022-01-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next episode of Wine Wednesday takes place on January 26th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time and features “The Wines of Sicily,” the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and one of the 20 regions of Italy. This island, located at the “toe of the boot” as described by the shape of the Italian Peninsula has had a rather storied past of being overrun and occupied by invaders representing multiple cultures. The Sicilian dialect and their traditional foods reflect the multiple raiders that swept across the Sicilian landscape. This is hardly surprising, as each of these intrusions, in some cases, occupied the island for centuries at a time. As a result, Sicily has a rich and unique culture, especially with regard to the arts, music, literature, cuisine, and architecture.
The terrain of inland Sicily is mostly hilly and is home to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. The volcanic soil in those areas of the island that have been influenced by volcanic action bodes well for vineyards and winemaking. Some ancient archeological findings testify that Sicily was one of the first Italian region to practice the art of enology. More recently, Sicily has seen a growing interest from modern day winemakers who are strongly committed to innovating, transforming and improving the quality of Sicilian vineyards. The current wine industry has introduced new grape varieties, experimented with new techniques and modernized the wineries. The sun, the land, the hills and the sea breeze have done the rest, providing an extraordinary variety of Sicilian wines which have taken a leading role on the international stage.
So, secure a bottle of Sicilian wine and join us on Wednesday, January 26th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time when we gather again for Wine Wednesday. As usual, please photograph the front and back labels of your bottle and email them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. this coming Tuesday evening for inclusion in Wednesday evening’s PowerPoint presentation. We look forward to having you aboard as we share with each other our own impressions of the wines we will discuss during Wine Wednesday! Join us on the Zoom link below.
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines of the Balkans
2022-01-19 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday on January 19th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time revolves around the wines of the Balkans. As wine regions go, the Balkans comprises one that is lesser known by most, yet possesses more ancient roots in practicing the craft of winemaking than today’s more well-known wine regions.
There are eleven countries that comprise the Balkans, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia. These countries have a rich history and winemaking tradition and may present a challenge in finding a representative example of their wines, due to availability of wines from the Balkans in our domestic fine wine shops. Still, there are many possibilities from which to choose, if you do some sleuthing! I personally know that there are a number of both red and white Grecian wines available, as well as many wines from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia and Romania on the shelves of local wine shops. Ask your Wine Specialist for assistance and you will be surprised at the number of Balkan wines you will find!
So, please join us at the Zoom link below with a bottle of wine from the Balkans for our next Wine Wednesday on January 19th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time when we explore more about this genre of wines! And, as always, please send photos of the front and back labels of the bottle of wine that you plan to feature to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in Wednesday’s PowerPoint lineup of featured wines!
We look forward to seeing you this Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time for this week’s episode of Wine Wednesday! Please join us via the Zoom link below.
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The Loire Valley – Jardin de la France with Kevin Ostrowski
2022-01-16 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
The Pennsylvania Wine Society series of Sunday afternoon Virtual Wine Education events returns on Sunday, January 16th at 3:30 pm Eastern/ New York Time on Zoom! Our first presentation of the New Year will feature The Loire Valley – Jardin de la France, hosted by PWS Member and past-presenter Kevin Ostrowski.
In the First Century BC, the longest river in France, the Loire, was recognized by Julius Caesar as valuable real estate. Beginning in the heart of the country and extending for over 600 miles to the Atlantic Ocean, the Loire River has provided access and transportation to its bounty throughout history. This includes the luscious wines of the region, as well. Exploring the wine regions of the Loire, we will see what makes each region unique unto itself. From crisp, light classic whites to bright and clean cool climate reds, we will sample and enjoy some wines from the Loire Valley, the Garden of France.
Even though many of the regions in the Loire grow and make wines from the same grapes, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, the wines are ultimately distinctive in character from region to region. Loire Valley wines are frequently known by the place names from the region in which they are produced (such as Sancerre, Quincy, Pouilly Fume, Muscadet, and Chinon), reflecting the characteristics of each regional terroir as well as the stylistic approach of the winemakers in those regions. Many of these Loire Valley wines are available in Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits premium stores. We urge you to explore the availability of Loire Valley wines in the French section of your local wine store and select one or several to enjoy during this event. We will undoubtedly touch upon the wine(s) you choose and the regions in which they are produced.
Please join us on Sunday, January 16th at 3:30 pm for The Loire Valley – Jardin de la France on the Zoom link shown below. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Wine Wednesday - Wines of South West France
2022-01-12 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday on January 12th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time takes us to a somewhat unsung, yet fascinating region of France known as South West France (or, Sud-Ouest as the French call it). As the folks at Wine Folly say:
“If you like Bordeaux but not the prices, then the South West region of France is calling you. Many of the wines are very similar to Bordeaux in varietal, wine making style and quality. Add some unique grapes and ‘terroir’ into the mix and this is one exciting region for wine lovers.”
The South West France wine region has a long history of being treated as the red-headed stepchild of the French wine scene, and therein lies a story. As always, it is the age-old story of money, politics and power. But, as a result, this region is also something of a best kept secret when it comes to affordable yet wonderful French wines! Look for regional names on the label like Bergerac, Montravel (dry white blends), Pécharment (big, reds), and sweet wines from Saussignac, Rosette and Monbazillac.
So, secure a bottle of wine from the South West region of France and join us for our upcoming Wine Wednesday on January 12th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time as we explore some of the fantastic yet somewhat obscure wines of this region! And as always, please take photos of the front and back labels of your wine and send them to WineCat@pa.net by 8 PM Tuesday for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show. Use the Zoom link shown below. We look forward to seeing you!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines of Alsace
2022-01-05 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
We kick off a New Year of Wine Wednesday on January 5th, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time with a discussion of one of my favorite wine regions, that being the region of Alsace, France.
Alsace is a land of rich historic background that marries both French and German culture to present the best of two worlds. Alsace produces many incredible white wines and one allowable red wine. A cooler climate region that once resided within the boundaries of Germany, this multi-cultural area is now part of France by virtue of the spoils of the First World War. Yet, Alsace has a distinctively German flavor in its foods, wines, customs and architecture.
The Alsace wine region is renowned for its wonderful white wines, such as Riesling, Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc, and Gewürztraminer and its one allowable red wine, Pinot Noir. This region is also home to many long-time wine producers that have endured through the ages in spite of international conflicts.
Please join us for Wine Wednesday on January 5th, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time with a bottle of your favorite Alsatian wine. And, as always, please send photos of the front and back labels of your bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11:00 p.m. Tuesday for inclusion in that evening’s PowerPoint slide show of featured wines that we will discuss.
We look forward to seeing you on January 5th, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time for our first Wine Wednesday event of the New Year!

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Champagne
2021-12-19 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Please join us online on Sunday, December 19th at 3:30 pm for a Virtual Wine Tasting during which we will discuss Champagne, the region, the wine, and their history! This special event will be presented by the Pennsylvania Wine Society and conducted by Wine Educator Joe Via and PWS President Marty Cook. A concise list of suggested Champagnes will be listed below. You will be able to secure one or several Champagnes in advance of the program of which you can partake during the broadcast. This event will be interactive through the Chat facility during the airing of the event and then during an open discussion forum at the end of the show.
Permit the following brief background to the program. Champagne is, first and foremost, a place. Europeans, especially the French, name their wines after places. This only adds to the confusion for Americans who do not speak French, which is an intimidating ingredient to interpreting wine labels and appreciating the wines that bear place-names. Champagne is also a wine that is distinguished by the fact that it contains a natural effervescence (putting it within the genre of “sparkling wines”), as opposed to wines that do not have effervescence (known as “still wines”). Champagne has been in production for several centuries and is the result of two separate fermentations. It is the second fermentation that imbues the wine known as Champagne with a sparkle. The process of making Champagne with two fermentations is known as the Champagne Method (Méthode Champenoise in French), nomenclature that has been updated in recent years to “the Traditional Method” (Méthode Traditionnelle). During this presentation, we will discuss the history, geography, and soil types of the Champagne region, as well as the history and step-by-step process by which Champagne, the wine, is made. You will discover that, although the finished product is generally a white wine, Champagne is frequently made from a combination of three grapes, two of which are “red” (which includes a spectrum of grape skin colors from red to blue to black). It is the process that is employed that achieves a clear colored wine from such grapes, all of which will be discussed.
The three Champagne wines that we will feature are listed below and are available in most Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores. If you are unable to secure any of these wines, then it is suggested that you select an alternate wine for your tasting pleasure during the event, so long as it is a sparkling wine from the Champagne Region of France, made in the Traditional Method.
PLCB Code #83367 – Bertrand Delespierre Enfant de la Montagne Brut Champagne Montagne de Reims 1er Cru Non-Vintage – $39.99
PLCB Code #39622 – Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne Brut NV – $39.99
PLCB Code #47130 – Ruinart Rose Brut NV – $74.99
So, please consider joining Joe Via and Marty Cook for this special presentation of Champagne, presented by the Pennsylvania Wine Society on Sunday, December 19th at 3:30 pm. We look forward to seeing you then!
Please use the following Zoom link to join this event:
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Charles Smith Wines
2021-12-17 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
EVENT SOLD OUT – you may contact the Treasurers via the contact page to be placed on a waitlist should you wish to be called in final days to take any canceled reservation seats that may come available.
CHARLES SMITH Unique wine names. Unique labels. One unique winemaker
Charles Smith is known for producing some pretty terrific wines out of Washington over the past 20 years. Before settling down in Washington to make wine in the late 1990’s, Charles moved to Denmark thinking he would find a position in the wine industry. What he actually did in Denmark was to manage and book music groups. While creating promotional material for the bands, he developed his bold graphic black-and-white promotional style.
Smith came to Walla Walla, Washington after leaving Denmark. With a very small budget and the generosity of the local vintners, he created his first vintage in 2001. He used fruit from one vintner, crushed the grapes at another facility, and fermented the wine at a third site. He made 330 cases of a minimally produced, biodynamic Syrah which he sold out of the back of his van. But what people remembered was the label – it was stamped only with a giant, black ‘K’ on a white label. It was easily spotted across the room but more importantly, they didn’t forget the wine. K Syrah.
Smith continued to create new wines– all designed with a black-and-white label and with inventive new names. Who doesn’t smile when you see a bottle of Velvet Devil Merlot? Boom Boom! Syrah? Kung Fu Girl Riesling?
For our tasting we will sample six wines from the Charles Smith label (now owned by Constellation Brands) and one from the HOUSE OF SMITH Substance label.
2019 Band of Roses:
We will start the evening with a cool dry Rosé made from 100% Pinot Gris
2020 Kung Fu Girl Riesling:
The story goes that Charles was eating Chinese takeout and watching a fight scene in a notorious martial arts film when he had an idea: a killer white wine to be paired with Asian food.
2018 Substance Sauvignon Blanc Sunset Vineyard:
The Substance label was created with the goal of creating the best value-price Cabernet Sauvignon in America. It has expanded to include red-blends, Merlot, Chardonnay and this Loire-style Sauvignon Blanc.
2016 Eve Chardonnay:
100% Washington State Chardonnay, producing a dry, creamy and smooth wine.
2019 Velvet Devil Merlot:
When the movie “Sideways” created anti-Merlot sentiments, Charles set out to rebuff the movie’s unflattering portrayal. One taste of Velvet Devil and you’ll know he succeeded.
2018 Boom Boom! Syrah:
This spicy Syrah is a tribute to Charles first lost love – a woman named “Boom Boom” O’Brien – and it’s one of the biggest, boldest Syrah’s of all time.
2016 Chateau Smith Cabernet Sauvignon:
While Charles Smith Wines does not actually have a chateau, the Chateau Smith Cabernet Sauvignon stays true to the old-world winemaking style from Bordeaux.
Join us on Friday, December 17th at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg to taste the wines of Charles Smith.
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All Center for Disease Control and Pennsylvania Department of Health distancing and safety precautions as well as the Hilton Harrisburg’s practices and policies will be followed as we are their guests. Tables of 4 persons each may be reserved via communication with your reservation notes, or email to the Treasurers.
Click here for reservations.
Members: $60 Patrons: $55 Nonmembers: $70

*From charlessmithwines.com and houseofsmith.com
