Pennsylvania Wine Society

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

Wine Wednesday ~ Chilean Wines
2021-12-15 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next and last Wine Wednesday event for calendar year 2021 will take place on December 15th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time and will deal with the topic of “Chilean Wines”. Similar to what Argentina did for Malbec and Uruguay did for Tannat, Chile has resurrected an almost forgotten grape known as Carménère, a grape of French origin that was facing near extinction in France. Vineyards in Chile were growing boatloads of what they thought was Merlot until 1994 when geneticists discovered that the Chilean vineyards were actually growing Carménère! Of course, Chile is quite famous for other grape varieties, including some fantastic Cabernet Sauvignon as well as other varietals.
That’s just one unusual characteristic about Chilean wines. Chile is a long and narrow country along the southwestern border of South America with valley after valley that run east to west from the Andes Mountains to the coast. Each of these valleys have distinctive terroir characteristics. And, because Chile is walled off by the Andes (the longest continental mountain range in the world) from the rest of South America, phylloxera has never breached that barrier into Chile. Thus, Chilean vineyards grow their grapes on their own rootstocks instead of grafted rootstocks from North American grapes.
Please join us for Wine Wednesday on December 15th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time to share in the discussion about Chilean wines by jumping on the Zoom link below. Please secure a bottle of Chilean wine and please remember to send pictures of the labels from the bottle of wine you wish to feature to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday. Those labels will be featured in next Wednesday evening’s PowerPoint slide show. We look forward to seeing you then!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Malbec
2021-12-08 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next installment of Wine Wednesday on December 8th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time involves a discussion of wines made from Malbec, a grape that is principally grown in Cahors in southwestern France as well as Argentina. Although genetic origins point to Burgundy, France, Malbec (known as Côt in southwestern France) only came into prominence in recent decades when it was catapulted to popularity by the winemakers of Argentina.
Malbec was originally used as a blending grape in the Bordeaux region of France as one of the six allowable red grapes that could be included in a red Bordeaux blend. Malbec has recently gained popularity as a varietal produced in the area of southwestern France near Cahors. Malbec is also widely grown around the globe in recent years.
Please join us on Wednesday, December 8th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time for our upcoming episode of Wine Wednesday when we will engage on Zoom to discuss this grape and its various flavor profiles as portrayed in varying terroir. Also, please take a picture of the front and back labels of your bottle of Malbec and send those photos to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in our PowerPoint slide show next Wednesday. It adds to the fun and enjoyment! Then, follow the Zoom link shown below!
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Aromatized Wines - Vermouth, Vini Amari, and Bitters
2021-12-05 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
This will be an overview of aromatized wines, or wine-based beverages that are flavored with botanicals. A few may have neutral spirits added for stabilization and may be classified as fortified wine.
Our tasting and discussion will break into four different areas to help understand aromatized wines.
First, with different Vermouth brands; their styles and origin.
Then we will explain (wine based) Vini Amari or bitter wines and their uses.
Digging a little deeper into the aromatized category, and similar to vermouth, are uniquely flavored Quinquina wines and its subcategory Americano.
Please check back closer to event month for event details, including the Zoom connection information.

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from Islands
2021-12-01 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Wine Wednesday goes on vacation in the Islands! Well, so to speak. Our next Wine Wednesday program on December 1st at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time leaves the mainland to visit the islands. Wine producing islands, that is! On first glance, you may say, “How many wine-producing islands can there possibly be?” The answer is, “Plenty!” For instance, The United States has Long Island, which produces some great wines from Long Island’s North Fork, most notably their Merlot! Then there is Hawaii! I have tasted several wines over the years that were produced by MauiWine (was Tedeschi Winery), opened in 1974 in Kula, Maui. They are known for estate-grown wines, traditional method sparkling wines, and pineapple wines.
On a more serious note, other longtime wine-producing islands include the Mediterranean islands of Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Crete, and Malta. Then, there are the Azores (an archipelago situated in the North Atlantic Ocean) and the Madeira Islands (both of these groups are autonomous regions of Portugal), the Canary Islands (off the coast of Northwest Africa), and the island of Great Brittan. Onetime island Australia does not count since it reached continent status some years ago; but, there are the nearby islands of New Zealand and Tasmania to consider. Rhode Island is not an island, although wine is actually produced there!).
So, join us with an example of a wine from an island for our next Wine Wednesday event on December 1st at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time. Also, send pics of your bottle’s wine labels (front, back and/or side) to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday for inclusion in our Wine Wednesday PowerPoint slide show. We look forward to you joining us!
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Beaujolais & Beaujolais Nouveau
2021-11-20 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Beaujolais and Beaujolais Nouveau by Marty Cook
It’s Beaujolais Nouveau Time! Every year at 12.01 am on the third Thursday of November, a young, fruity wine full of flavor and zest is released for consumption. In France, it is against the law to release this wine before the appointed time, and the rest of the wine drinking world complies with this tradition so that Beaujolais Nouveau Day can be simultaneously celebrated the world over!
This weekend’s Virtual Wine Tasting takes a detour and presents on Saturday afternoon instead of Sunday. So, please mark your calendar and join us this Saturday, November 20th at 3:30 pm Eastern Time on the Zoom link shown below. That is when Joe Via will lead us through a wine tasting and discussion of the history and tradition of the Beaujolais Region of France and their red wines, which includes both Beaujolais and Beaujolais Nouveau. During Joe’s dissertation, he will discuss the grape with which both Beaujolais and Beaujolais Nouveau are made, the region in which the grape and the wines are made. Joe will also focus on the process used to make Beaujolais Nouveau, which makes this wine the first wine of the new harvest and how it is able to be bottled and distributed within mere weeks of harvest!
Beaujolais Nouveau Day is not immune to the supply chain difficulties that currently plague the world as a result of the pandemic. As such there is only one Nouveau Beaujolais available this year in Central Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores. So, we will discuss Beaujolais Nouveau 2021 and Beaujolais as a region using an old vines Villages and a “Cru” (Morgon) from Louis Jadot.
Here are the three codes for the zoom tasting on Saturday, November 20th:
PLCB Code #5877 ~ Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau 2021 @ $12.99
PLCB Code #84512 ~ Château d’Emeringes Beaujolais Villages 2020 @ $12.99
PLCB Code #86015 ~ Louis Jadot Morgon Chateau des Jacques 2019 @ $27.99

Please join us this Saturday at 3:30 pm Eastern Time as we celebrate this year’s Beaujolais Nouveau and learn about Beaujolais red wines and the Beaujolais Region! We look forward to seeing you on the Zoom link shown below!
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Wine Wednesday ~ GSM's - Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre Blends
2021-11-17 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
GSM’s (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre blends) by Marty Cook
Next week’s Wine Wednesday on November 17th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time will examine a very popular red wine blend to which many refer as a “GSM” (an acronym for three well-known grape varieties known as “Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre”). This genre of wines is a huge favorite among red wine blend fans and is prized for its complex red fruit flavors and age-worthy potential. Originally grown in the Côtes du Rhône region of France, this blend is now evidenced in many wine regions of the world. This style and variations of the GSM blend excels in warmer climates such as in Spain, South Australia, South Africa, parts of the United States, and Southern France. In Australia, the grapes are commonly called Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro. Some of the most renowned examples of GSM are known as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which is produced in the Rhône and where producers are permitted to use up to nineteen different grape varieties (including white grapes). Examples of this wine is produced in regions of the United States as diverse as Paso Robles, California, as well as Central Virginia and Washington State.
So, scout out the shelves of your local wine and spirits shop and delve into the topic of GSM’s. After you research, decide on and purchase the GSM about which you want to share on our next Wine Wednesday, remember to take photos of the front and back/side labels and send them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening, for inclusion in our weekly Power Point slideshow.
Then, join us on Wednesday, November 17th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time for an hour of online fun by clicking on the Zoom link shown below. We look forward to seeing you!
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PWS Member Selections
2021-11-12 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
by Scott Casper——————–
On Friday evening, November 12 at 7:00 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg, we will be experiencing a unique and fun event featuring eight wines presented by PWS board members and members. This event is unique because instead of being seated at a table, you will be able to socialize and walk around to different pouring stations to taste each wine. It’s fun because…well, because it is!
The wines will be presented and poured by the board member or member who selected that particular wine for this event. The presenter will give you the name of the wine, the winery that produced it, the grape varietals in the wine and the country and wine region it comes from, as well as, a discussion of tasting notes. The presenters/pourers and their wines:
Averill Shepps, Presenter/Pourer – Burgundy, France – White – Domaine de la Tour Penet Macon-Peronne Vielles Vignes 2018 – 100% Chardonnay
Description and Tasting Notes: Sustainable. Ample bouquet of peach, pear, hazelnut and vanilla. Deep and full-bodied on the palate with a juicy core. This wine has good acid and a long grippy finish. It is fresh and youthful. It should drink well for another five years at the least. This is a Weygandt Importer wine.
Laura Reich, Presenter and Barry Einsig, Pourer – Middle Rio Grande Valley AVA, New Mexico – White – Gruet Blanc de Noirs – American dry sparkling wine – Non-Vintage – 75% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay – Grapes sourced from New Mexico, California and Washington.
Description and Tasting Notes: Methode Champenoise. Salmon color, full-bodied with aromas and taste of raspberry, baked pear and cherry, with a hint of toasted vanilla. It has a balance of fruit and minerals with crisp acidity. It was aged for a minimum of 18 months. This wine pairs well with green chili chicken enchiladas.
Score and accolades: Wine Spectator 90 points, a Smart Buy and Top 100 Wines. One of the Top 10 Wines of New Mexico.
Scott Casper, Presenter/Pourer – Piedmont, Italy – White – Vietti Roero Arneis 2019 – 100% Arneis
Description and Tasting Notes: Pale straw yellow color with fresh floral, citrus and melon on the palate with almond hints. It is an unoaked, dry, medium-bodied wine with crisp acidity. This Arneis is a well-balanced, elegant wine with good complexity and a lingering finish. This wine is an excellent aperitif and pairs well with light hors d’oeuves, seafood, salads, light soups, veal, pork, chicken and creamy cheese.
Score: Wine Advocate 91 points.
Sheila Hagg-Rickert, Presenter/Pourer – Sicily, Italy – Red – Tascante Ghiaia Nera Etna Rosso 2018 – 100% Nerello Mascalese
Description and Tasting Notes: Aromas of hazelnut, eucalyptus and violet lift out of the glass. Linear and elegant, the polished palate features Morello cherry, blackberry and hints of ground clove alongside lithe tannins and fresh acidity for a salty finish. Drink through 2025. Ghiaia Nera is Tenuta Tascante’s demonstration of the possibilities for Nerello Mascalese from young vineyards. It is the perfect blend between the Nerello Mascalese grape and the volcanic soils of Etna. It offers juicy plum and cherry flavors framed by polished pebbly tannins. Notes of bay leaf and citrus peel enliven the finish. This is enhanced by a lighter touch with oakwood aging. It is aged in large non-invasive Slavonian oak barrels to which the Nerello Mascalese variety is well-suited. Bright and approachable, it’s priced to pour by the glass at the trattoria. The name means ”black gravel” which describes the volcanic vineyard soil.
Robyn Meadows, Presenter/Pourer – Mendoza, Argentina – Red – Catena Malbec 2018 – 100% Malbec
Description and Tasting Notes: This Argentinian wine is a blend from four unique vineyards in Mendoza, a region known for its Malbec, resulting in an intense aroma, deep violet color and rich, concentrated mouthfeel. This New World Malbec shows berry flavors with hints of leather and cinnamon with well-integrated tannins and bright acidity followed by a dry, long pleasant finish. It’s an excellent representation of the quality of Mendoza Malbecs.
Score: Wine Advocate 91+ points
Robyn Meadows, Presenter/Pourer – Cahors, France – Red – Chateau Vincens Origine 2018 – 100% Malbec
Description and Tasting Notes: Although now associated with the New World and Argentina in particular, Malbec originated in France and is still produced in the Cahors region. Although made from the same varietal, this Cahors Malbec will show notes of chocolate, coffee and spice over its berry flavors. The tannins are more apparent in this representation of Malbec than will be detected in the Catena. This wine could easily age for several more years. Also highly rated, the Cahors is well-suited for comparison with the Catena. Tasters will have a chance to determine whether they prefer the more common Argentinian or the traditional Cahors presentation of Malbec.
Score: Wine Enthusiast 93 points
Scott Casper, Presenter/Pourer – Tuscany, Italy – Red – Cafaggio Basilica del Cortaccio 2015 – 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Description and Tasting Notes: The wine’s appearance is darkly saturated and rich, with little light breaking through. The bouquet offers full-force black fruit with shadings of spice and cedar. The wine’s Tuscan side is also very apparent thanks to those Mediterranean aromas of summer cherry and Italian rosemary and dried oregano. The tannins are soft and well-integrated into the thick fiber of this medium to full-bodied Tuscan red. This wine pairs well with tomato and basil tortellini. Drink 2019-2028.
Scores: Wine Advocate 93 points, James Suckling 93 points
Cathy Boyd, Presenter/Pourer – Sauternes, France – White Dessert – Chateau Carmes de Rieussec 2017 – 94% Semillon, 3% Sauvignon Blanc and 3% Muscadelle
Description and Tasting Notes: This wine opens with gorgeous lemon marmalade, peach preserves and preserved kumquat notes with touches of preserved mandarin peel and honeycomb. It fills the palate with rich, spiced apricot preserves, with a racy backbone to balance and a good, long finish.
Scores: James Suckling 93 points, Wine Advocate 92 points, Wine Enthusiast 91 points
You do not want to miss this event! Join us for a fun evening tasting and discussing eight sumptuous wines. I promise you will not be disappointed with any feature of this event.
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, or to the Treasurers. Click here to sign up online.
Member: $60 Patron: $55 Nonmember: $70

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines 10 Years old, or older
2021-11-10 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Wines 10-Years-Old or Older by Marty Cook
Our next Wine Wednesday episode will occur on November 10th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time and will focus on older wine vintages. More specifically, we will draw upon our collective wine cellar to feature wines that are ten or more years in age. By that, we do not mean “ten or more years in the bottle;” rather, we mean “ten or more years since the vintage year in which the grapes were harvested. So, whether a 10-Year-Old Tawny Port or an Allegro Cadenza, share with us “how old” and “what, when, and how” you came by this particular bottle! How did that bottle hold up at an advanced age? Softer, smoother, flabby and over-the-hill, or (heaven forbid) infected by some microbial agent?
As an added point of interest, you may go as far as to research information from the vintage year specific to your wine. Thus, 2018 in, say, France may have been a vastly different vintage than the 2018 vintage in, say, Argentina. In fact, you may find that 2018 was a good year in such-and-such region for Chardonnay while, later in that same summer, the harvest in that same area may have had issues pertaining to the quality of, say, Cabernet Sauvignon.
As always, a quick reminder to snap some photos of the front and back/side labels on your bottle and send them along to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in our Wine Wednesday Parade of Stars!
Please join us online for our next Wine Wednesday on November 10th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time by clicking on the Zoom link shown below! We look forward to seeing you!

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Syrah Comparisons - Syrah/Shiraz Around the World
2021-11-07 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Join us online on Sunday, November 7th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time for our next Pennsylvania Wine Society Virtual Wine Tasting event. During this upcoming program, Joe Via will lead us through a comparison of three examples of Syrah. These wines will come from a diversity of locations all around the globe that will include France, Washington, and Australia (where it is known as “Shiraz”).
During this comparison, Joe will discuss the Old World origins of Syrah in France (which we believe to be the case) as well as the geography, geology, and other elements of terroir that make Syrah from these three areas so distinctive and different from each other.
Genetically the same grape, albeit, represented by many clonal varieties, the typicity of Syrah is emblematic of the terroir in which it is grown. It would be difficult in one afternoon program to discuss every area in which Syrah is grown worldwide; but, the three areas that immediately pop into mind are the three on which we will focus.
The three wines selected for our November 7th tasting are extreme, expressive examples to demonstrate how terroir and climate can affect the style of wine produced. They are as follows (accompanying data sheets are attached to this announcement):

PLCB Code #83406 ~ J.L. Chave Saint Joseph ‘Offerus’ 2018
PLCB Code #85037 ~ Elephant Seven Syrah Walla Walla Valley ‘River Rocks Vineyard’ 2018
PLCB Code #85374 ~ Mollydooker Shiraz ‘The Boxer’ South Australia 2019

Please secure one or more of the above wines in advance of November 7th and join us online that day at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time using the Zoom link shown below.
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Wine Wednesday ~ "The Last Wine You Drank"
2021-11-03 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday episode, scheduled for November 3rd at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time, is a takeoff on so many social media posts with similar premises. “Tell us the last food you ate” or “Tell us the last song you heard”. This topic was delivered to me while riding a train from New Orleans to Virginia last summer. I had just finished my dinner of pot roast. The only red wine choice I had was an industrial grade (Cough! Gasp! Gorp!) Barefoot Cabernet Sauvignon. Shortly thereafter, I read a Facebook post that asked, “If you had a lifetime supply of the last wine you drank, what would it be?” I guess you can get used to anything, given sufficient desperation; but, I hope I never get to test that theory. At least not with an infinite supply of anything made by Barefoot. But, I digress…
The good news is that next week’s Wine Wednesday will not damn you to a lifetime of wine mediocrity; but, it does have an element of “show and tell.” So, show us and tell us! What was the last wine you drank in advance of next week’s program? There is some hair-splitting going on here, as we ask that you send us photos of your wine labels from that “last wine you drank” to WineCat@pa.net by the preceding day (Tuesday, November 2nd at 11:00 p.m.) for inclusion in our Wine Wednesday PowerPoint presentation. So, it’s more like “the last wine you drank before you sent your photos!” WineCat advises, “Drink what you want, any time you want… just remember to send photos and join us for what promises to be wine potpourri – red, white, pink, blue, orange – a wine rainbow.”
Whatever the case, let’s have some fun with this topic! So, send along your wine label photos and join us for Wine Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time on November 3rd!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Give Us a Recommendation
2021-10-27 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Our next Wine Wednesday, on October 27th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time will feature your wine recommendations. This is a wide open topic and gives you a wide berth of considerations from which to choose. You could recommend a wine to pair with a particular meal; so, in your estimation, what goes best with steak? But, there are those of us who prefer seafood or fowl or even pork or ham to red meat. So, what, then? And, of course, what about the challenge of vegetarian meals? And, one of my favorites would be pairing wines with desserts!
You may also wish to make your recommendations based on the time of year, such as summer and warm weather as opposed to cooler or colder weather. And, then there are occasions. What is your preferred sparkler for New Year’s Eve? Or, how about Christmas or Hanukkah? What goes great with grilled foods for the Fourth of July? How about Easter and Passover foods? And, let’s remember that Turkey Day is right around the corner!
A variety of situations are on the table for this Wine Wednesday! So, give this some thought and join us on Zoom at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time on Wednesday, October 27th for some fun and socialization at the link shown below. We hope to see you then!
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German Wine Labels with guest, Inge Mountz
2021-10-24 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
by Marty Cook
Have you ever wandered into your wine store’s German section, only to feel totally overwhelmed? At first glance, your first impression is that the bottles are all very decorative with their multi-colored and very artistically done labels. But, upon closer inspection, deciphering the Germanic font with strange accents over some of the lettering in the words can become quickly perplexing. You are confronted by many uniquely new and strange words and without the slightest clue as to where to begin or what it is that you are reading! Well, fear not!
Our next Virtual Wine Tasting event on Zoom, which takes place on Sunday, October 24th at 3:30 pm Eastern/New York Time, will dispel the confusion that surrounds interpreting German wine labels. During this segment of our regularly scheduled virtual programming, our host Joe Via and his guest host Inge Mountz will cut through the mystery of German wine labels and how to understand them. Inge is a German native whose first language is German, and she will offer correct pronunciations for the many words to which we may not relate, while Joe Via will guide us through a basic “German Wines 101”. During his overview of the German wine industry, Joe will touch upon Germany’s wine history, its thirteen regions, and the way that the German wine industry addresses wine quality and other details on its wine labels.
Please join us on Sunday, Sunday, October 24th at 3:30 pm Eastern/New York Time for this exciting look inside German wines and their labels! Get a bottle or two of German wine (anything except Blue Nun!) and be prepared to eliminate any confusion that German wine labels may cause you to experience! We look forward to seeing you at the Zoom link displayed below!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Wines at, or lower than, 12.5% Alcohol-By-Volume
2021-10-20 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Wines at 12.5% ABV or Less by Marty Cook
Our next Wine Wednesday episode, which airs on Wednesday, October 20th at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time, will confront the topic of wines at 12.5% Alcohol by Volume (ABV) or Less.
When I first began to explore wine in 1971, wines rarely exceeded 12.5% ABV. Yeast strains at that time only tolerated ABV’s of 13.6% at the top end before they naturally succumbed to the effects of alcohol, whereupon they fell to the floor of the fermenter and subsequently died. So, sitting down with a friend over a bottle of wine in those days left both of you relatively sober. That was before scientists developed yeast strains that could tolerate ABV’s north of 16%.
Several decades ago, New World wine producers began pushing the limits of high-alcohol wines, which was easy to do in sun and heat-laden areas. This resulted in higher sugar-per-berry content, yielding bigger, bolder fruit bombs of higher ABV and lower acidity. In recent years, however, a backlash among consumers arose that persuaded producers to back off of these techniques.
There are plenty of wines available today at 12.5% ABV or less, albeit, you may have to search a bit. So, the task for our next Wine Wednesday on October 20th at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time will be to secure a bottle of wine with an ABV of 12.5% or less that you would like to feature during Wine Wednesday. And, as usual, please send photos of the front and back labels of your wine bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint presentation.
We look forward to seeing you for Wine Wednesday on October 20th at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time for some fun with wine! The Zoom link for this virtual event is shown below.
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Red, Red Rhone
2021-10-15 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
by Eric Miller
The concept for this tasting is to simplify the signature features of the Rhone Valley’s climate, soils, grape varieties and its confusion of regulations. All that sounds very serious, yet our guest speaker, Eric Miller, promises “We will laugh, we will cry, we will zig and we will zag our way just north of Avignon and up the Rhone Valley, almost to Lyon. We will give white wines a tip of the hat but spend our precious time on everything red. We will learn the differences between Côte du Rhone, Côte du Rhone Village, the Crus and what grapes are legal to use. Why is it legal to irrigate some vineyards and not others? How is the rock underlayment related to soil moisture? Why are stews and braised meats, sausage and cassoulet served with these wines? But tuna, pasta and eggplant too!? All these things and more will be burned into your mind like the searing winds of the Mistral and magically, yea joyfully, appear on your tongue for ever and ever, amen.” Okay, Eric. Let’s tour!
The wines were selected from top producers and the amazing 2015 and 2016 vintages long before retaliatory price increases, and this exemplary collection cannot be replicated. If that fact alone doesn’t have you reserving a spot, there’s special food pairings and more, so read on, please. The wines Eric selected for us to explore and enjoy are:
The Greeting Wine—2017 IGT, Viennes, Viognier, Les Vins de Viennes Les vins de Viennes is a modern winery in Viennes, Northern Rhone Valley, about 25 kilometers south of Lyon. It is a collaboration between Yves Cuilleron, Francois Villard and Pierre Gaillard who are best known as Syrah specialists.
The South (Grenache and 9 close red friends)
2019 Côte du Rhone, Producer to be announced This dry red wine is grown within the limits of its appellation, approx. 200,000 acres. Côte du Rhone, somewhere north of Avignon and South of Lyon. Reds are generally dominated by Grenache. Northern Rhone has a continental climate and granite and argili-calcairous soils. Southern Rhone is chiefly Mediterranean climate with chiefly sandstone, limestone alluvia, loess and quartzite shingle soils.
2016 Lirac, Ch de Ségriès, Cuvee Réservée A 17th century chateau with 145 acres that is located with the right to make both Rosé with the Tavel appellation and a red Lirac, both AOC “named villages”. It is located across the river from Chateauneuf de Pape. 40% or more must be Grenache and Mourvedre. 25% or less must be Syrah and Carignan.
Chateauneuf du Pape, Chateau de la Grande Gardiole, Vielles Vignes 11,500 cases/year. 83% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 2% Mourvedre, 2% Counoise, 1% WT_? Wine from an ancient hillside town made famous by its powerful red wines.
2015 Gigondas, Domaine du Grand Montmirail, Vielles Vignes A large property of 100 acres with terraces on the southeast side of the Dentelles de Montmirail that form a perfect amphitheater above most of the surrounding vineyards. Some say this town is a contender for the crown still worn by Chateauneuf du Pape.
2009 Ventoux, Chene Bleu, Abelard Near the picturesque hilltop village of Crestet, it is several miles east and north of Gigondas. Xavier felt this underappreciated appellation was being overlooked, underpriced and allowed to dither. So, he converted the vineyards to bio-dynamic culture and put in a massive cash infusion to build an eco-sensitive winery 4 stories deep in solid rock.
2017 Côte du Rhone, Seguret, Domaine de l’Amandine One of the perfect hillside villages in southern Rhone. Complete with world class restaurant and a view to die for it has attained the status of a CdR Village. The history of Amandine begins in 1968, when Jean-Pierre Verdeau, accompanied by his wife Maryse, founded the Domaine de l’Amandine, driven by the desire to make his own wine from the few hectares left to him by his father. The wines were first sold only to merchants until his daughter married a trained enologist from South Africa.
The North (Syrah, is all she wrote)
2015 Cornas, Domaine Durand, Empreintes Family owned and operated by Eric and Joel Durand since 1991. Incredibly steep granite slopes and terraces of 100% Syrah. A notably hot dry vintage.
2016 Crozes Hermitage, Emmanuel Darnaud, Les Trios Chenes This domaine began in 2001 with 3.2 acres on the left bank of the Rhone. It has grown to about 32 acres of small prime plots of mostly red grapes. Some stems are left in the primary fermentation for 15 to 20 days before the wine is aged in “demi-muids” (600 litre) for 12 to 18 months. This bottling was grown in Glacial Alluvium composed of river-rolled stones.
2016 Saint Joseph, E. Guigal Established in 1946, the year after WWII ended, by Etienne Guigal, who had worked for Vidal Fleury for 15 years before that. Guru Robert Parker said about Guigal’s winemaking son, “I have never seen a producer so fanatical about quality as Marcel Guigal”, which undoubtedly influenced the rapid change in perception and quality of the wines of the Rhone.
This is a high-end exploration of fine, food worthy wines, and so, we have planned with Hilton’s Chef Bianco several small plate accompaniments to make it even more enjoyable for your palate:

BBQ Mushrooms with Polenta Smoked Almonds and Arugula
Braised Pork Stew – Grilled Garbanzo, Red Pepper, Rosemary Voulevant
Cheese plate of Fontina, Gloucester Cheddar, and Manchego.

Space is limited by both Hilton space, safe distancing, and wine availability; so sign up early to be able to tell the wonderful story later to those who procrastinate and miss out. Plan now to join us at 7 p.m. Friday, October 15, 2021 at the Hilton Harrisburg for this fun and educational tour of the Rhone Valley. It will be a great way to kick off an October weekend!
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All CDC and PA DOH 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, or to the Treasurers.
Click here to sign up online. I promise you will not be disappointed with any feature of this event.
Members: $90 Patrons: $85 Nonmembers: $100

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines of Italy
2021-10-13 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
by Marty Cook
Our next Wine Wednesday focuses on the Wines of Italy this coming week on 10.13.2021 at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York Time.
From a wine perspective, Italy has a fascinating story. Twenty-five percent of the world’s recognized wine-producing grape varieties are indigenous to Italy. This is a direct tribute to the Romans, who loved wine, and to the Catholic Church, whose monks were constantly cultivating new varieties of wine grapes as an extension of their passion for making sacramental wine. Unlike the French, whose focus was on developing fewer grape varieties and only those of greater quality, the Romans and subsequently the Italians focused on the quantity of different grape varieties as well as the quantity of wines produced. For that reason, there is no shortage of different Italian wines from which to choose.
For this week’s Wine Wednesday on 10.13.2021 at 7:00 pm Eastern Time, consider the many wines of Italy’s 20 Regions (comprised of 110 provinces) and choose the wine that you would enjoy featuring during our weekly Zoom broadcast. Some of what you might ponder could be a blend or single varietals ranging from Arneis, Vermentino, Primitivo (known as Zinfandel in the United States), Verdicchio, Sangiovese, Nero d’Avola, Nebbiolo, or another of Italy’s hundreds of indigenous wine grapes. And, of course, recent decades have seen regions such as Tuscany produce some outstanding blends and varietals from French grape varieties. So, there is no shortage of material from which to choose.
So, please join us for Wine Wednesday on 10.13.2021 at 7:00 pm Eastern Time. And, as a reminder, please send photos of the front and back labels from the bottle you select to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint of featured wines. We look forward to seeing you on the Zoom link shown below!
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Banfi Portfolio Selections with Joe Via and his guest Pam Bernd
2021-10-10 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
by Marty Cook
This episode of our regularly scheduled Virtual Wine Tasting events on Sunday, October 10th at 3:30 PM Eastern/New York time, features Joe Via discussing the full line of products from Banfi Distributors with a focus on their Italian Wine Imports. During this segment, Joe will interview his guest and Banfi representative, Pam Bernd, who spent 17 years with the PA Liquor Control Board in various roles that began during college and ultimately served as a buyer for French and Italian wines. Pam also held supervisory positions in the supply chain and marketing department of the PLCB before she began working for Banfi Wines in June of 2017, initially as the manager for the entire State of PA and eventually adding to her territory with the States of Delaware and West Virginia. Pam earned an IT degree from Penn State and lives in Harrisburg with her 8 year old dog Bailey. Pam really enjoys drinking wines from Northern Rhone region of France, especially Cote Roties, and Syrah is her favorite varietal.
Banfi has a vast selection of wines in its portfolio. We will taste three of those wines on Sunday, October 10th at 3:30 PM. Those three wines are listed with PLCB codes below.
Banfi Principessa Gavia Gavi PLCB Code 000007358 $16.99
Castello Banfi Rosso di Montalcino PLCB Code 000008239 $24.99
Banfi ASKA Bolgheri Rosso 2017 PLCB Code 000083200 $24.99
Please join us to explore the Banfi Portfolio with these wines or another of your Banfi Portfolio favorites on Sunday, October 10 at 3:30 PM Eastern/New York time. No reservations required. Simply connect via the Zoom link below. We look forward to hearing from Joe and his guest, and to sharing a Sunday afternoon glass of wine with you!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Cabernet Franc
2021-10-06 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
by Marty Cook
The enigmatic Cabernet Franc. Parent grape of both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are two of the six Noble Grapes. Parent grape to three of the six allowable red grapes permitted in a red Bordeaux blend, and itself one of those six allowable red grapes. A grape that yields complex red wines, with aromas of raspberry, bramble, and bell pepper, Cabernet Franc is principally grown for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Bordeaux style; but, it can also be vinified alone, as in the Loire’s Chinon or throughout the wine regions of North America’s East Coast. And, yet, it is a grape that evokes strong emotional responses in favor of or against it.
Join us for this week’s installment of Wine Wednesday on October 6th at 7:00 PM Eastern Time when we explore the many portrayals of Cabernet Franc wines. There is more to this wine than Chinon. And, as a reminder, shoot some photos of the front and back labels of your bottle of choice and send them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM Tuesday evening, for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show.
We look forward to seeing you and learning about your Cabernet Franc during Wine Wednesday on October 6th at 7:00 PM Eastern Time! Zoom link below.
NO reservations necessary. Just send label photos to WineCat as noted above and click the zoom link Wednesday evening at 7 PM to join.
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Boordy Vineyards: “To Make Great Wine is to Love its Home”
2021-10-03 13:00 - 16:00 UTC | Boordy Vineyards, 12820 Long Green Pike, Hydes, MD, 21082, United States
———————–by Joyce Soroka
COME JOIN US… for the last event in our Pennsylvania Wine Society 2021 “Summer in the Vineyard Series” on Sunday, October 3rd at 1:00 p.m.! During this event, you will share in an extraordinary wine tasting experience while also marking 75 years of Boordy Vineyards winemaking tradition. Boordy Vineyards is the oldest winery in the State of Maryland and the second oldest winery on the East Coast! You are sure to enjoy the wines from the Boordy Vineyards premium label Landmark Series of wines, pared with your picnic lunch or foods you purchase from the on-location food truck, along with live music and an incredibly charming vineyard setting amidst the atmosphere of the 2021 Harvest! We look forward to enjoying the event with you!
We will start with a guided tour of the winery, its production facility, and a preliminary wine tasting from the wine storage tanks inside the production facility. Following the tour, we will gather in a shaded grassy area and sit at picnic tables where the Landmark Series wine tasting will be conducted.
Our tasting will be from the Boordy Vineyards Premium Labeled Landmark Series of Wines. These wines are refreshingly crisp whites to complex, age-worthy reds. Handcrafted wines are the finest representations of vintage year, varietal character, the geography of the Maryland regional appellation, and the soul of our winemakers. Made in limited quantities, the Landmark wines are sourced from 100% Maryland grown grapes, principally from the Boordy Vineyards estate vineyards in the Long Green Valley of Baltimore County and their South Mountain Vineyard in Frederick County.
Boordy Vineyards has repeatedly won wine competitions at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, the San Francisco International Wine Competition, the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition and The Maryland Governor’s Cup. The Maryland Governor’s Cup, established in 1984, is limited to wines with a Maryland appellation (75% or greater Maryland-grown grapes). It is overseen by WYPR’s Cellar Notes host Al Spoler. His exacting discipline and panel of highly qualified judges make this competition an excellent bellwether for the impressive gains in quality of Maryland wines.
We will taste the following wines:
1) 2020 Viognier ~ Aromas of honey and ripe peaches lead to a powerful flavor of ripe pear, lychee and tangerine. Full bodied with alluring viscosity. Enjoy with seafood and spicy foods. Drink now through 2024.
2) 2019 Chardonnay Dry Bench Reserve ~ From the “dry bench” of our South Mountain Vineyard. Full-bodied with aromas of lemon meringue and hazelnuts. Vanilla bean and lemon zest on the palate.
3) 2020 Rosé ~ Lively flavors of freshly picked strawberries with cream, rose petals and a lingering touch of citrus. A blend of estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc picked early specifically for Rosé production.
4) 2015 Landmark Reserve ~ Resemblant to the left bank of Bordeaux, powerful structure, deep flavors, toasted vanilla bean, chocolate, brambleberry, and sage, with notes of Morello cherry, and a touch of graphite. This wine won the 2020 Maryland Governor’s Cup Double Gold.
The competition’s WYPR’s Cellar Notes host, Al Spoler, writes, “Boordy Vineyards walked away with the 2020 Governor’s Cup, awarded to the best Maryland wine. Their 2015 LANDMARK RESERVE is a red blend produced during an exceptional growing season… the wine displayed ready-to-drink flavors, a classic aroma and amazing depth. It also won a “Double Gold”, a distinction indicating unanimous praise from the judges. This year’s competition was extremely tight, with many of our local wineries entering exceptional wines; but, at the end of the day, Boordy’s superb red blend emerged as the champion.”
5) 2017 Lost Order No. 191 ~ Silky and smooth with rich aromas of blueberries, violets, and full grain leather. This Petit Verdot-led blend is full bodied on the palate with notes of black licorice, dark chocolate and mixed berry cobbler. Aged for 18 months in 25% new French oak barrels. Drink now through 2035.
Upon arrival at Boordy Vineyards, you will check in at the Gate, indicate you are with the PWS event. They will have a list of attendees and will direct you to parking.
Bring a picnic lunch or purchase something from the food truck vendor. La Barrita Restobar will be the resident food truck at Boordy Vineyards during our event. The food is Argentinian with an Italian flair. Menu items include Fried spicy chickpeas; Chorizo; (traditional Argentinian grilled sausage); beef, chicken or spinach Empanadas; and Arugula salad with Burrata cheese and roasted red peppers and freshly made Balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Sandwiches include a Ribeye sandwich, a NY Strip sandwich with the steak thinly sliced then breaded and fried. The sandwiches are served with a choice of fries or salad. Menu item prices range from $12-20.
So, plan to join us on Sunday, October 3 at 1:00 p.m. for the fun as we relax, taste and discuss the exceptional Boordy Vineyards wines. The weather may be cooler, thus reminding us that it is fall! We will be sitting at picnic tables; or, if you prefer, bring a lawn chair or seat cushion. This is a “rain or shine” event, with a contingency plan to retreat indoors, if necessary, where ample room is available. Boordy Vineyards is located at 12820 Long Green Pike, Hydes, Maryland 21082. From the Harrisburg area, it is about a 75-minute drive first on the Interstate and then on well-maintained picturesque country roads. You will also be close to some covered bridges if you want to stop to enjoy them! This event is worth the trip!
Boordy Vineyards wines will be sold at a 10% discount per bottle to PWS event attendees during this event only.
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All CDC and PA DOH distancing and safety precautions will be followed. Click here to make your reservations! Admission prices are:
Members: $30 Patrons: $25 Nonmembers: $40

Wine Wednesday ~ Wines from the Rhine and Mosel River Valleys
2021-09-29 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Wines from the Rhine and Mosel River Valleys by Marty Cook

The German wine industry marches to the beat of a different drum. Their wine classifications, wine styles and intimidating wine labels with lots of words sporting umlauts over various vowels can be confusing at best. But, the industry has a very long and rich tradition stemming back to the days of the Roman Empire and their wines are delicious and memorable.
One of the most salient features of the German wine industry are the river valleys where the vineyards grow. The water from the rivers warms the vines during harsh winters and keeps the grapes cool during summer nights. Two of the most prominent river valleys are the Rhine and the Mosel, which bring us many popular wines where the principal grape is Riesling. This grape is used to make a number of exciting, crisp, citrusy white wines that range from dry to sweet.
Want to explore some of these new and exciting wines? Grab a bottle of wine from the Rhine or Mosel and join us for this segment of Wine Wednesday on September 29th at 7:00 pm Eastern Time on the Zoom link below. Also, please send photos of the front and back labels of your bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11pm Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show.
We look forward to seeing you on this next Wine Wednesday on September 29th at 7:00 pm Eastern/New York time on the Zoom link below!
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Sake: an Ancient Drink for the New World
2021-09-26 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
—————-by Cathy Boyd
Sake has been on the Japanese table for over 1,000 years. Please join us on Sunday, September 26th to try one, two or even three sakes to see if it should join your table. The PWS Zoom seminar, hosted by Cathy Boyd, will explore this ancient drink through a sampling of three sakes each representing a different grade of Junmai sake. Junmai only sake will be the focus of this seminar.

For tasting during the seminar I have purchased:
Hakutsuru Draft Sake Kobe 300 ml #49972 $ 6.49
Maboroshi Junmai Ginjo Sake 300 ml #02961 $17.99
Soto Junmai Daiginjo Sake Niigata Prefecture 300 ml #82200 $15.99
If you are unable to buy these particular sakes, try to obtain one, two or three sakes that have the following on the label:
Junmai ~ Junmai Ginjo ~ Junmai Daiginjo
The process of making sake is often compared to the process of making beer. The two have their similarities and yet the making of sake is unlike any other because sake starts with rice. And not the table rice found on grocery store shelves – but sake rice. Much like wine where the better the grapes the better the wine – the same is for sake, the better the rice, the better the sake.
After the rice selection, the next step for the sakemaker is to choose other ingredients that impart flavor into the sake. Choices include: which yeast strain to use and which type of water – hard (kosui) or soft (nansui).

Once ingredients are selected then the sake making can begin. The first step is the milling or polishing of the rice kernel. Polishing removes a percentage of the outer layer of rice. The lower percentage of polish of the rice gives the sake flavor and aroma that differs from the rice polished at a higher percentage. The level of polish is called ‘SEIMAI BUAI’ – pronounced “Say My Boo Eye”.
The polishing is just the first of nine (or so) steps to making sake. The other steps include washing, steaming, adding koji, creation of the shubo, fermentation of the moromi, then pressing, filtration and aging.
I hope this short introduction to sake has created an interest to learn about sake in more detail. I will discuss all the points mentioned here in greater detail during the ZOOM presentation on Sunday, September 26th at 3:30 p.m. Eastern/New York time.
Please check back here closer to event time for the Zoom Link information.

Wine Wednesday ~ Organic/Biodynamic Wines
2021-09-22 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Organic and Biodynamic Wines by Marty Cook
Next week, Wine Wednesday ventures into the confusing world of Organic and Biodynamic wines. The confusion stems from how these terms are defined and regulated. Our Federal government regulates use of the term “organic,” but “biodynamic” has no legal definition. The following excerpts are from Dr. Vinny of Wine Spectator:
“There are two types of organic listings on wine bottles. Wines can be made from certified organically grown grapes, avoiding any synthetic pesticides or additives, or, to take it a step further, “organic” wines are made from organically grown grapes, and are also made without any added sulfites (though naturally occurring sulfites will still be present).
Biodynamic is similar to organic farming in that both take place without synthetic chemicals; but biodynamic farming incorporates ideas about a vineyard as an entire ecosystem, and it also includes things such as astrological influences and lunar cycles. A biodynamic wine means that the grapes are farmed biodynamically, and that the winemaker did not make the wine with any common manipulations such as yeast additions or acidity adjustments. A wine “made from biodynamic grapes” means that a vintner used biodynamically grown grapes, but followed a less strict list of rules in winemaking.”
Still confused? Then, join us on Wednesday, September 22nd at 7:00 PM Eastern/New York Time for Wine Wednesday when we will discuss Organic and Biodynamic wines at greater length. Bring a representative wine of either of these genres with you and we will learn together! Also, remember to photograph the labels of your wine bottle (front and back) and email them to WineCat@pa.net by 11 PM TUESDAY Eastern/New York time for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint slide show of wines to be discussed! We look forward to seeing you! All Zoom link information follows below.

Use this link to join the meeting:
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An Evening at Nissley Vineyards
2021-09-18 17:00 - 19:30 UTC | Nissley Vineyards, 140 Vintage Drive, Bainbridge, PA, 17502, United States
——–by Cathy Boyd
Join the PWS at Nissley Vineyards on Saturday, September 18th at 5pm to enjoy the newest collection of Nissley Vineyard Wines, ‘The Reserve Collection’ and a fabulous grazing station prepared by Slice of Divine Charcuterie – www.sliceofdivinecharcuterie.com. See the list of grazing station items and the nine wines at the end of this article. Then make your reservation!!
The Reserve Collection is the bridge which joins the Nissley of the past with its future. Nissley began when, with time on his hands after retiring from the bridge construction trade, J. Richard “Dick” Nissley planted several experimental acres of Seyval Blanc in the mid-70’s. Shortly thereafter, Dick became a winemaker and winery owner, first opening in 1978 and eventually naming his venture with the family name, Nissley Wine Cellars. Planting in Lancaster County at the time was somewhat of an experiment – there were only a few wineries operating in Pennsylvania at the time and conventional wisdom was that California or France was the place to grow grapes and operate a winery.
Growth and success was a slow and steady process made easier after his four children joined the venture – John as vineyard manager, Judith as enterprise manager who and also started the Music in the Vineyard’ series (that continues today), Joyce doing the business accounting and bookkeeping and MaryLee overseeing the preservation and beautification of the grounds with her knack for horticulture.
Nissley’s focus until recently was on the production of hybrid and sweet wines. Then the grandson of Dick Nissley, Jonas, enters the picture in 2016. Jonas has tweaked the lineup of Nissley wines with the introduction of the Nissley Reserve line. The wines we will be tasting at our event on Saturday, September 18th, will be the Nissley Reserve wines.
The Reserve line was started with Merlot in 2016 and showcases Pennsylvania wines through the use of excellent fruit, expert winemaking practices and barrel aging. Cabernet Franc was added in 2017, Chardonnay in 2018 and Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019. Next to be added will be a Meritage. Originally the Reserve program was to showcase only estate fruit but the recent cold weather of 2017 and 2018 killed 80% of the 5000+ vines that were planted. The vineyards have since been replanted and the first harvest of Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay will be this year. Nissley will continue their labor of love in the vineyard and keep planting vinifera grapes even with the inevitable headaches and hair pulling they bring!
Recently hired winemaker, Andy Reagan, is there to lessen the headaches and hair pulling, and this year is his first harvest at Nissley. A native of Virginia, and a former Marine Corps reservist, Andy has had a passion for wine that started well before the national legal drinking age of 21. Andy summered in his youth in Hudson Valley, at Benmarl Vineyards helping in the vineyard and/or the cellar. After graduating from the Marine Corps RTD, Parris Island, SC he returned to Benmarl Vineyards where is sister, Anne, was the winemaker, and began to learn the trade in depth. After several years at Benmarl, Andy returned to Virginia.
Since then Andy has made wine at a number of eastern wineries with distinction, where he has led a rebirth of several vineyards, won numerous platinum, gold and Best of Class awards and was invited to pour his wine at the James Beard House. Some of the prominent wineries include Chrysalis Vineyards, Jefferson Vineyards, Old House Vineyards and most recently Horton Vineyards where he guided the 2016 Petit Manseng to winning the 2019 Virginia Governor’s Cup.
Below is the wine line-up and food accompaniments for our event. **All wine purchases during the evening will receive a 20% discount
The WINES
“The Jester” – Pét-Nat wine. A traditional form of sparkling wine.
2018 and 2019 Reserve CHARDONNAY
2018 and 2019 Reserve MERLOT
2018 and 2019 Reserve CABERNET FRANC
2019 Reserve CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2017 Estate Bottled CHAMBOURCIN

The FOOD – a GRAZING TABLE by Slice of Divine Charcuterie
CHEESES – Manchego, Pecorino, Ricotta Salata, Burrata, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Everything Goat Cheese, Drunken Goat, Merlot Bellavitano, Asiago, Saint Agur Blue
MEATS – Prosciutto, Dry Aged Salami, Spicy Dry Aged Salami, Capocollo, Speck, Soppersata, Bresaola, Chorizo, Rosemary Ham
DIPS & SPREADS – Roasted Garlic Hummus, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Tzatziki, Olive Tapenade, Marinated Feta Salad, Shirazi Salad, Tabbouleh Salad, Whole Grain Dijon Mustard, Spicy Brown Mustard, Raspberry Compote, Fig Jam, Tomato Jam, Honey
GARNISHES – Dolmades, Marinated Olives, Marinated Artichokes, Cherry Tomatoes, Mediterranean Cucumbers, Mini Peppers, Tomato & Mozzarella Platter, Honey Comb, Fresh Figs, Assorted Dried Fruits, Assorted Nuts, Dried Citrus, Assorted Fresh Fruits, Prosciutto Wrapped Peaches, Prosciutto Wrapped Cantaloupe
BREADS & CRACKERS – Seasoned Pita Bread, Naan, Baguettes, Herbed Focaccia, Crackers & Chips
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All CDC and PA DOH distancing and safety precautions, as well as Nissley Vineyards policies will be observed.
Register here! Members: $50 Patrons: $45 Nonmembers: $60

Wine Wednesday ~ Your First Wine
2021-09-15 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Your First Wine(s) by Marty Cook

A “tell all” segment of Wine Wednesday will occur next Wednesday, September 15th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time. That’s when we get into some personal (and, possibly ancient) history regaling the tale of your first wine or wines or, to make it easier, one of the first wines you ever tasted. We all had to start somewhere and the moniker of “wine aficionado” is not earned in a day.

“ONCE UPON A TIME…” you discovered wine. Boone’s Farm aside (and, maybe it really was Boone’s Farm, which is actually malt-based and not a real wine), what were some of the first wines that you enjoyed drinking and to which you are willing to admit?!? Please tell us!!! Inquiring minds are dying for a good laugh!!!

But, seriously… whether it was Riunite (I liked their Cella wine) or Lancer’s Rosé, or Leonard Kreusch’s Moselblumchen (and, I could go on, but will refrain!), clue us into what you were quaffing (probably straight from the bottle, no doubt) and subsequently using the empty bottles for candle holders! Anyone for Banfi’s Chianti in a wicker basket?!?

So, let’s have some fun! Join us for Wine Wednesday on this coming Wednesday, September 15th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time when we put aside our inner snob and revisit our wine drinking roots, and maybe even tell a few funny stories about “back in the day”!

Oh, and, please remember to send photos of your bottle’s labels (front and back) to WineCat@pa.net by 11:00 pm Tuesday evening so that we can assimilate your photos into our PowerPoint Cavalcade of Wines From Yesteryear so that we can fully appreciate the wine or wines on which you first test-drove your palate!

We look forward to seeing you for Wine Wednesday on this coming Wednesday, September 15th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York Time! Please join us via the following Zoom link:

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Meaghan Frank of Dr. Konstatin Frank Winery - Finger Lakes, NY
2021-09-12 15:30 - 17:00 UTC | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
——- by Marty Cook
High above the steep southwestern slope of Keuka Lake, to the north of the town of Hammondsport, New York, sits a winery founded in 1961 by Dr. Konstantin Frank. The Dr. Frank Winery pioneered the vinifera movement in the Eastern United States. It was here in 1957 that Dr. Konstantin Frank planted the first East Coast vinifera vines, which launched the “Vinifera Revolution”. This movement would have a lasting effect on the course of winemaking in New York and Eastern America. Four generations strong, the Frank family are leaders in grape growing and winemaking throughout the Finger Lakes and beyond.
In the intervening sixty years, the Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery has grown and flourished and the operation has remained under the guidance of the very qualified Frank family members. The winery occupies a place of preeminence among East Coast wineries as well as American wineries in general. Their wines have garnered countless awards and have firmly established the Finger Lakes as one of the best winegrowing regions in the United States as well as in the world, producing cooler climate wines such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Grüner Veltliner, and Rkatsiteli that rival the best that the world has to offer!
On Sunday, September 12th at 3:30 pm, it is our pleasure to host an hour of wine discussion and tasting with guest, Meaghan Frank, the great-grand-daughter of Dr. Konstantin Frank. Meaghan is the Marketing arm of the Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and she will introduce us to a trio of their incredible wines from the Finger Lakes Region:
2020 Rkatsiteli ~ A Georgian grape variety that dates back to 3000 B.C. and the oldest known grape variety in the world. Light, crisp, dry, and delightfully refreshing! Scored 93 Points and “Wine of the Month” from the Finger Lakes Times (August 2021).
2018 “Eugenia” Dry Riesling ~ Our driest Riesling made from vines dating back to 1968, this wine received 94 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.
2017 Brut ~ Three traditional champagne grapes (a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) aged Méthode Champenoise for at least 36 months. A “Top 100 Best Buys in the World” with a score of 92 Points from Wine & Spirits Magazine (August 2021).
Visit the following link to purchase the above wines at a 20% discount and have them shipped to you at a flat rate of $10 in advance of this virtual wine tasting: https://www.drfrankwines.com/pa-wine-society/
All purchases for this Pennsylvania Wine Society event will be discounted by 20%. Also, a $10 flat shipping rate will be applied at the cart for all orders of 1 to 11 bottles pertaining to this Pennsylvania Wine Society event. Shipping of 12 or more bottles is free. These shipping rates apply for all States to which Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery ships! So, please join us on Sunday, September 12th at 3:30 pm on the Zoom link shown below, when the Pennsylvania Wine Society will host a live hour-long event with Meaghan Frank as she features the above three wines from her family’s winery!
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Wine Wednesday ~ Merlot
2021-09-08 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
This much-maligned grape remains the favorite of many, save for the movie-goers who fell prey to undeserved bad press in “Sideways”. Tell us about your favorite Merlot!
___________________________________________________________
Additional details for each individual event are posted here closer to the actual event date, and distributed to PWS members and those on our distribution list via e-mail in advance of the event each week.
You may request to be placed on the mailing list for a complimentary 3-month trial by entering your full name and email address at the top of the home page. If you want to be a Member or Patron, and enjoy all the benefits and events, click here to join!
Please check back here the week of the event for Zoom connection information.

Wine Wednesday ~ Cabernet Sauvignon
2021-09-01 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
by Marty Cook
Cabernet Sauvignon, often referred to as “The King of Wine Grapes”, is the topic of our upcoming installment of Wine Wednesday on this coming Wednesday, September 1st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time. One of the Noble Grapes, “Cab Sauv” is representative of so many stylistic interpretations owing to “place” and “winemaker preference”. An offspring of a natural crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc (hence, the name “Cabernet Sauvignon”), this revered grape can portray Old World or New World styles, as well as some that bridge those two styles.
What version of Cabernet Sauvignon represents your particular preference? Is it the higher acid and lower alcohol content of the traditional Old World style, or do you enjoy a more full-bodied “big, bold, and fruit forward” style of a New World portrayal from, say, Napa? There are regions that perhaps should not insist on growing this grape due to their lack of sunlight and heat. Or, will those regions have the last laugh as climate change smiles on their fortunes with more heat and sunlight? So, grab a bottle of a Cabernet Sauvignon from the region that you prefer and share it with us as we enjoy another round of Wine Wednesday on the Zoom link shown below!
As always, we ask that you send photos of the front and back labels of your wine bottle to WineCat@pa.net by 11 p.m. Tuesday evening for inclusion in our weekly PowerPoint “Slide Show of Stars” as we trot out each of the wines that our participants choose to feature!
We look forward to seeing all of you this coming Wednesday for this week’s installment of Wine Wednesday on September 1st at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/New York time at the Zoom link below!
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Meeting ID: 812 3205 4782
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Allegro Cadenza
2021-08-27 18:50 - 21:00 UTC | Cadenza Vineyards, Brogue PA, 3475 Sechrist Road, Brogue, PA, 17309, United States
by Lynne Beeson__________

The Allegro Cadenza event on August 27th has limited seats remaining! Save your spot here! All event information is kept current on the PWS website or contact the Treasurers for information. For those fortunate to have seats reserved, here are Carl’s notes on the tasting lineup.
The Cadenza Vineyards wines speak from forty years of growing grapes at one special place. Over time we have started to understand what works for us here. It starts with Chardonnay and moves through Cabernet Sauvignon and then Merlot and finishes with Petit Verdot blends.
Our Chardonnay Vineyard was originally planted in 1973 (along with our Cabernet Sauvignon), and while time and climate have not been kind to the vines, we have steadily re-planted with better clones and rootstocks. In true French fashion, our Chardonnay block contains 8 different clones all ripening at different times but harvested together. The wine tastes less of “Chardonnay” and more of “Allegro” (or, rather, “Cadenza”). The fruit is barrel-fermented in newer French oak barrels, and it remains in the same barrel up until bottling. The richness of the lees fills out the wine and fleshes out the flavors.
2019 Chardonnay – Our most recent Chardonnay is the culmination of my search for balance between barrels and fruit. Struggling to balance the fermentation in barrels while retaining fruit characteristics is anathema to both techniques. The solution seems to lie in the ripeness and chemistries found at harvest in our vineyard.
2017 Chardonnay – This vintage has hit its stride and is starting to exhibit the mature flavors that our older vintages showcase while retaining enough primary fruit to provide liveliness and complexity.
2014 Allegro Reserve Chardonnay – To show that even our whites have ageability, it was necessary to include an older one. The 2014 exhibits flavors of honey and butterscotch while retaining enough acidity to balance the richness.
Our Merlot block was part of our re-planting in 2015. Having sourced budwood from our friends at Black Ankle, we were able to plant clean vines on what we consider the “heirloom” part of our vineyard site. French ENTAV clone 181 on de-vigorizing 101-14 rootstock brings the yields in this iron and clay rich field down to two and a half tons per acre.
2017 Merlot – Vineyards are planted for the next generation, and our three acre block produced a wine in 2017 that justified the planting. Then a year later, we lost one third to freeze damage, and thus began the slow turning towards Petit Verdot. Merlot is the grape that makes the wine that is easy to like … and to hate … and to love.
“Bridge” was a wine conceived initially with John Crouch back in 2001. It was meant to be a bridge between his Cadenza tradition and my own (which wouldn’t begin for another four years.) It has come to take on the significance of being our “Second Wine” in the Bordeaux tradition. The blend changes from year to year, but the quality remains the same.
2019 Bridge – Petit Verdot 65%/Merlot 27%/Cabernet Sauvignon 8%. 2019 was a strong but not stellar vintage–hence, no Cadenza–and yet the Petit Verdot and Merlot solidly ripened. The wine is still young and still has hints of the new barrels in which it was aged and which gave it some of its tannic structure.
2017 Bridge – Merlot 36%/Cabernet Franc 34%/Cabernet Sauvignon 22%/Petit Verdot 7%. Merlot and Cabernet Franc have such an affinity for each other and together produce blends which form a sweetness that seems incongruous to the tannic structure. This Bridge is much more gregarious and charismatic than our Cadenzas, while at the same time having a complex set of flavors and textures that draws one in.
Our flagship wine, the redundantly named “Cadenza Vineyards Cadenza” has been a tradition of Bordeaux blends since 1984. Some years favor Merlot, while others Cabernet Sauvignon or Petit Verdot. Time and learning has shifted this wine from its Cabernet roots to Merlot and on to Petit Verdot dominance. But the blend has always been of the highest importance. This is a wine that speaks to the potential of fine wine in Pennsylvania.
2017 Cadenza – Petit Verdot 41%/Cabernet Sauvignon 38%/Merlot 16%/Cabernet Franc 5%. As young vines, the tannins on the Petit Verdot are not nearly as impenetrable as will be the case as these vines age, and therefore the Merlot and Cabernet Franc quotient is quite minimal. This wine achieves a body and richness which belies the fact that it is the first harvest off the new plantings.
The Cadenza wines are meant to be aged and enjoyed mature even though they are sometimes too enticing while young. The Crouch Cadenzas were tough in their youth while my tradition relies on Merlot to soften the Cabernet tannins and provide a mid-palate that entices. Typical lifespan for Bridge and Cadenza is over twenty years. A maximum lifespan has not yet been determined.
1998 Cadenza – 95% Cabernet Sauvignon/3% Merlot/2% Cabernet Franc. The last Cadenza made by John and Tim Crouch (and the first one that I helped work on as well.) Stylistically this is the last of its kind, relying almost solely on the Cabernet Sauvignon to carry the moniker. The early winemaking notes claim that this wine was softer in its youth than other Cadenzas of its ilk, and that staggers the imagination to ponder what the 1995 or 1991 might have tasted like when young.
All of the Cadenza Vineyards wines are aged in 100% new French oak barrels (with the exception of some whites which are in older barrels). The whites are aged for approximately 8-10 months and filtered prior to bottling while the reds are aged for 18-22 months and not filtered.
2020 Barrel Sample Blend – As the wines develop over time, we look forward to seeing how they best work together in blends. 2020, for all of its pandemical trials and tribulations, did yield wine that will find its way into the Cadenza milieu. Taste the potential future of Cadenza.
This promises to be a delightful summer evening at Allegro! We will be on the covered deck weather permitting; or if not, will move indoors to the barrel room. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
100% COVID 19 vaccination proof with follow-up 14-day waiting period completion is required to confirm event reservations. All current CDC, PA DOH and Allegro Winery safety precautions and infection prevention precautions will be observed.
Please plan to have dinner or a generous snack prior to arrival. Planned not to distract the palate, simple cheese and cracker nibbles will accompany these nine fabulous Cadenza wines. Also plan your travel time to easily gather by 6:50 PM on Friday, August 27th at Allegro Winery—3475 Sechrist Road, Brogue, Pennsylvania 17309. Ph: 717-927-9148. See you there!
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