Pennsylvania Wine Society

Deadline to Register for Honig Wines
2026-04-21 00:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Events fill up and may sell out fast – we recommend reserving seats at your comfortable earliest opportunity. To reserve seats, go to the Shoppe Page of this website.

Honig Wines
2026-04-24 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Rutherford: The Historic Heart of Napa Valley
When we talk about Napa Valley, we often talk about it as a whole. But the reality is that Napa is a collection of distinct places, each with its own identity, climate, and voice. And then there is Rutherford. Often referred to as the historic heart of Napa Valley, Rutherford is one of the region’s most important and recognizable appellations. At just six square miles, it is relatively small in size, but its impact on the world of wine, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, is enormous. It is here that Honig Vineyard & Winery has built its legacy, and understanding Rutherford is key to understanding why their wines resonate so clearly.
Rutherford sits along the valley floor in central Napa, stretching between the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east. This positioning creates an ideal environment for growing grapes. Warm summer days allow fruit to fully ripen, while cool evenings, often dropping more than ten degrees after sunset, help preserve acidity. This balance between warmth and cooling is one of the defining characteristics of the region and plays a critical role in shaping the wines.
The soils add another important layer. Formed from ancient alluvial fans, they are gravelly, sandy, and exceptionally well-drained. These conditions naturally limit vine vigor, encouraging the plant to focus its energy on producing concentrated, high-quality fruit. The result is wines that achieve ripeness without heaviness and structure without excess.
Rutherford is perhaps best known for something that cannot be easily measured but is unmistakable once experienced. Often referred to as “Rutherford dust,” this signature characteristic describes the fine, powdery tannin structure that underpins many of the region’s Cabernet Sauvignons. It adds a subtle cocoa-like texture and a sense of refinement that sets these wines apart. Combined with flavors of cassis, black cherry, and dark plum, this textural element gives Rutherford wines their hallmark balance of power and elegance. It is not just about intensity. It is about proportion.
Rutherford’s reputation for excellence is not new. Dating back to the 19th century, the region has been home to some of Napa Valley’s most influential vineyards and producers. From early pioneers like Georges de Latour at Beaulieu Vineyard to the historic Inglenook estate, Rutherford has long been associated with wines that define California Cabernet Sauvignon.
That commitment to quality continues today. Organizations like the Rutherford Dust Society bring together growers and vintners with a shared mission to uphold the highest standards in grape growing and winemaking, to care for the land, and to ensure that Rutherford’s unique character is preserved for future generations. In 2020, Rutherford became the first AVA in Napa Valley to achieve 100 percent participation in the Napa Green Land program, reinforcing its leadership in sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Honig is very much a reflection of Rutherford’s philosophy. Their wines are not about excess or showmanship. They are about clarity, balance, and allowing the vineyard to speak. This is especially evident in their Cabernet Sauvignon. Whether it is the broader Napa Valley bottling, the Rutherford expression, or the single vineyard Bartolucci Vineyard wine, each step brings you closer to the source. The structure becomes more defined, the texture more precise, and the sense of place more apparent. Even their Sauvignon Blanc, while vibrant and refreshing, carries a depth and composure that reflects the same careful approach.
What makes the upcoming Honig event so compelling is not just the quality of the wines, but the ability to experience them in context. This is not simply a tasting. It is an opportunity to understand how geography, climate, soil, and philosophy come together in the glass. You will taste Napa Valley alongside Rutherford. You will experience the difference between appellation and single vineyard. You will see how subtle shifts in place translate into meaningful differences in structure, aroma, and texture. And you will do it with Michael Honig in the room, offering firsthand insight into the decisions behind each wine.
Rutherford is not just a location on a map. It is a benchmark for what Napa Valley can achieve when everything aligns, climate, soil, history, and intent. On April 24th, 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg, that benchmark comes to life. For anyone who appreciates Napa Valley wines or simply wants to better understand why they are so compelling, this is an evening worth being part of. Seats are limited, and this is one you will not want to miss.
We will be pairing wines with artisanal cheese plates.
Sauvignon Blanc will be paired with: Lemon Chive Whipped Chevre, Grilled Feta, Austrian Gruyere, Basil-roasted Pear, Spiced Marcona Almonds, and Blueberry Jam.
Cabernet will be paired with: 6-month Farmstead Manchego, 2- year-aged Black Diamond Cheddar, Gorgonzola Picante, Honeycomb, Cherry Jam, and Dark Chocolate.
Please review all cheese plate items and contact the Treasurer for any food allergy concerns.
Reservation deadline is April 21st or when we sell out. Make reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$155
Patrons—$150
Nonmembers—$175

Board of Directors Meeting
2026-05-11 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-06-08 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-07-13 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-08-10 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-09-14 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-10-12 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-11-09 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-12-14 18:30 - 20:30 UTC and 16 more dates | Wherever YOU Connect with Zoom
Board meetings are virtual via Zoom. Active, dues paid current Members may attend as guests. Please contact an Officer if you are interested in attending a meeting.

Deadline to Register for Pinot Noir - Simply Elegant
2026-05-12 00:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Events fill up and may sell out fast – we recommend reserving seats at your comfortable earliest opportunity.

Pinot Noir - Simply Elegant
2026-05-15 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Hilton Harrisburg, 1 North Second Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Indulge your senses and elevate your palate at the May PWS tasting event dedicated to the nuanced elegance of premium Pinot Noir.
This carefully curated gathering promises a sophisticated exploration of one of the world’s most beloved and expressive grape varietals, paired artfully with a selection of gourmet small plates prepared by the Hilton chefs to highlight the subtle fruit, earthy undertones, and silky textures of Pinot Noir. The plates are:

Burrata with Macerated Strawberries, Arugula, Toasted Pistachios, Balsamic Glaze and Basil
Wild Mushroom and Gruyere Arancini with Caramelized Leeks and Truffle Oil
Seared Salmon with Cherry Wine Reduction on Fingerling Chips

Your exploration of all that Pinot Noir has to offer will be guided by one of our most popular presenters, Kevin Ostrowski. Kevin is a well-known and respected certified wine judge, sommelier, and wine educator.
Pinot Noir is often described as the “heartbreak grape” because it is notoriously difficult to grow and vinify but when everything goes right, wow!
Well-made Pinot Noir is known for its delicate structure, layered aromas, and remarkable ability to reflect its terroir.
At this event, guests will have the opportunity to sample a range of higher-end Pinot Noir wines sourced from renowned regions such as Burgundy, Oregon’s Willamette Valley, and California’s Sonoma Coast. In addition to these classic regions, the lineup will also feature standout expressions from Tasmania, New Zealand, Argentina, Champagne, Sancerre, and Germany—offering guests a rare opportunity to explore how Pinot Noir thrives across a truly global stage.
This event will showcase not only a diversity of regions, but also a range of styles—including white, rosé, and sparkling wines demonstrating how Pinot Noir is more than just a red wine. Each pour has been thoughtfully selected to highlight the diversity and elegance that define this exceptional varietal.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or an enthusiastic newcomer, this event offers a welcoming yet refined atmosphere to deepen your appreciation of Pinot Noir.
Engage with fellow wine lovers, exchange tasting notes, and discover new favorites in an environment that celebrates craftsmanship, flavor, and comradery.
Join us May 15th at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Harrisburg for an unforgettable evening. Our Pinot Noir events are always popular and this event featuring premium wines is sure to sell out. Space is limited by Hilton availability—reserve your place and prepare to savor Pinot Noir at its finest.
Please send any food allergies via email to the Treasurer.
Reservation DEADLINE is May 12th. Make reservations on the Shoppe Page of this website.
Members—$160
Patrons—$155
Nonmembers—$180

Deadline to Register for Cruising Rosé
2026-05-26 00:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pride of the Susquehanna, 11 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
This is an early deadline to meet the needs of the Riverboat team and the caterer. Please know that we can’t make exceptions past the deadline for this event.

Cruising Rosé
2026-06-12 18:45 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Pride of the Susquehanna, 11 Championship Way, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Join us on June 12th at 7 p.m. dockside on City Island as we embark on the Pride of the Susquehanna for an evening cruise and Rosé wine tasting along the picturesque Susquehanna River.
Our riverboat events in the past were very popular and often the favorite event of the year. You will be able to take in the wildlife along the river and the beautiful sunset (weather permitting) from upper and lower decks as you taste Rosés made from different grape varieties and from different countries. Pick one or two as your favorites to buy later and enjoy throughout the summer.
The Pride of the Susquehanna is one of only 6 authentic paddlewheel riverboats still active on America rivers. It is unique in that the paddlewheels not only propel the boat but also steer and turn it independently. The idea of a riverboat was conceived by Mike Trephan as a way to boost the festivities around Kipona and the Susquehanna River. It was launched on June 11, 1988, and recently underwent extensive renovations to promote additional guest comfort and smooth sailing.
Our event will be catered by Savory Occasions in Hershey. We’re selecting a menu with them to pair well with Rosé. If you know Savory, you know to expect excellent food and service.
Look for additional details including food, pricing and how to make reservations coming soon. We are excited to be able to sail on the Pride of the Susquehanna again!
