2024 Event Schedule
Like a Fine Wine… Getting Better Every day
Sunset WINE SAIL: Celebrating Women Winemakers @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot Sailboat, Frances as you explore five delicious quality wines from some incredible women winemakers with Sommelier Erica Archer. You're in for an incredible wine education experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways.
Find out what makes each wine region unique in the styles of wine they produce
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(SOLD OUT) WINE SAIL: Fresh Maine Oysters @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot Sailboat, Frances as you explore five delicious quality wines each paired with fresh Maine oysters shucked right on board, with Sommelier Erica Archer. You're in for an incredible wine education experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways.
Find out what makes a wine a good match for fresh oysters
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
We are serving five wines and plenty of oysters. Due to the nature of our events, we are not able to accommodate food allergies, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. But you may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations of any kind.
PRICE: $175 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(5 Seats REMAINING) WINE & FOOD SAIL: “SHEF” Mimi Weissenborn of Sur Lie @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: If these are not the best things going on in Portland this Summer, we don’t know what is. Sommelier Erica Archer has invited some of her favorite chefs in Portland to join her on a select few of our season-long wine sails to pair five delicious courses with five delicious wines. We’re so excited for “Shef” Mimi Weissenborn of Sur Lie in Portland, Gather in Yarmouth, and the soon-to-be-open Catface Cafe in Biddeford, to join us again this year during Portland Wine Week!
You’ll sail and sip five incredibly delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire ... each paired with food thoughtfully prepared for you by Shef Weissenborn… all while indulging in a gorgeous scenic sail on board the 74-foot immaculate sailboat, Frances, built by her Captain and crew on Portland's waterfront. You're in for an incredible wine and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways ... all with delicious wines and paired food. You'll walk away knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, and gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select, and pair wines and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will enjoy every bite and sip.
MENU: TBD
The menu will be available close to the date of the event as the chef takes inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions.
PRICE: $185
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Mimi Weissenborn | Creative Director & Executive Shef of Sur Lie and Gather Restaurant
A native Maryland crab, Shef studied at L’Academie de Cuisine and promptly decided to pursue a culinary career in New York City as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. As the Creative Director, and later Executive Chef, at Vinateria she received a Michelin recommendation, participated in multiple chef collaborations such as New York City Food & Wine Festival, Harlem Eat Up and a gamut of James Beard Foundation dinners headlining and selling out one of her very own.
SPECIAL EVENT: WEARABLE FLORAL ARRANGEMENT AND SIPS @ VIA VECCHIA
DETAILS: Adorn yourself in flowers during this unique event at ViA VECCHiA. Hosted by Sommelier Susannah Gleason, you’ll sip on four wines while florist Morgan Wagner-Holz of Elder Farm and Forage guides the creation of a gorgeous floral headband, wrist cuff, or pocket square. Don’t wait around — tickets won’t last long. Choose whether to make a gorgeous floral headband, wrist cuff, or pocket square during booking.
ViA VECCHiA is an Italian-inspired small plates restaurant located in the heart of the Old Port in an iconic brick and ivy-covered building overlooking cobblestone streets. A destination for wine and dining, VV boasts a large wrap-around 20-seat bar surrounded by luxurious velvet booths in a warm, energetic atmosphere.
MENU: Four vibrant wines that will pair to enhance the bouquet-making experience
PRICE: $85 per person all inclusive (30 tickets available)
LINKS: ViA VECCHiA, Elder Farm and Forage
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Susannah Gleason, Via Vecchia’s wine director, has experience in all facets of the restaurant and retail wine industries. Her focus at Via Vecchia is on helping staff and guests navigate the occasionally complex world of classic Italian wines. Susannah holds an advanced certificate in wine from WSET, and enjoys furthering her knowledge through practical experience as well as personal exploration.
We are so excited to have Morgan Wagner-Holz of Elder Farm and Forage join us for this special event. Her focus is on creating gorgeous, seasonal bouquets from blooms she cultivates herself on her farm in Windham.
(SOLD OUT) WINE DINNER: 5-COURSE Frank Cornelissen x Piccolo-Style @ Ugly Duckling
DETAILS: Join renowned Chefs Ilma Lopez and Damian Sansonetti as they revive Piccolo, their beloved former Italian restaurant, for one night only! Take your seat around the signature horseshoe counter in Portland’s West End for an unforgettable 5-course Southern Italian-inspired dinner featuring five wines from Frank Cornelissen, Sicily's and Mt. Etna's most emblematic winemaker. Indulge in five of his small-productions wines, including magnums and exclusive library vintages, all perfectly paired with a diverse menu of fish, meat, house made pastas, and desserts made from local ingredients … and perhaps even Piccolo’s famous cavatelli (if you know you know!)
Space is extremely limited! Book your table in advance to experience this one-off, boutique dinner during Portland Wine Week.
PRICE: $135, plus tax and gratuity.
LINK: Ugly Duckling
RESERVE: Email reservations@chavalmaine.com
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Before Chef Damian Sansonetti was the acclaimed chef de cuisine at the uber-French Bar Boulud in New York, co-owner Damian Sansonetti grew up savoring his mother's and grandmother's cooking from handmade pasta to grilled fish to learning how to cure meat and make sausages with his grandfather. A career in food was practically his birthright. After graduating from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Sansonetti worked at Nantucket’s Brant Point Grill and Pittsburgh’s Steelhead Grill, moving to New York to open Heartbeat in the W Hotel. Sansonetti met Daniel Boulud while working at Shallots in Midtown and eventually took a position at Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne. Sansonetti was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Award, Best Chef Northeast.
Chef Ilma Lopez has worked in some of the most demanding and rewarding kitchens in the industry, such as DB Bistro, Corton, Tailor, El Bulli, Café Boulud, and Le Bernardin. When she left New York City to the quieter reaches of Maine, Lopez found a new terrain she couldn’t resist. Arriving with a mastery of colors, flavors, textures, and spices—and a seasoned ability to work under pressure—Lopez makes classic dishes her own, with attention to micro-detail and thoughtful twists. For her work, Lopez earned a 2014 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Star Pastry Chef Award, Has been a multiple-time James Beard top-Chef finalist, and you may have seen her name in the September issue of Bon Appetit Magazine highlighting her incredible talents when naming Portland, Maine as their pick for Restaurant City of The Year. You can find her daily at their new bakeshop and luncheonette The Ugly Duckling.
(SOLD OUT) SUNSET Wine Sail: Sicily @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront, with new seats added for everyone to be seated comfortably. You'll explore a selection of five delicious quality wines from the renowned wine regions of Sicily that you'll love to have in your repertoire.
Taste and learn about a series of five delicious wines from Sicily from the distinctive, volcanic, and high elevations of Mount Etna, to Cerasuolo Vittoria, and nearby Islands and inlets, etc.
Find out what makes Sicily’s regions and sub-regions unique in their styles of wine.
Discuss the major Sicilian grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention.
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting wine.
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level.
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
COST: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(Sold out) WINE SAIL: South Africa @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join Sommelier Erica Archer, CWP, WSET Advanced, in beautiful Portland, Maine, for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront, with new seats added for everyone to be seated comfortably. You'll explore a selection of delicious quality wines from the diverse wine regions of South Africa that you'll love to have in your repertoire.
Taste and learn about some delicious wines from the renowned and diverse sub-regions of South Africa with all the varying climates, elevations, terrain, classic and emerging wines, and styles.
Find out what makes each wine region unique in the styles of wine they produce
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
SPECIAL EVENT: WINE & OYSTER SOCIAL WITH GLIDDEN POINT @ TWELVE
DETAILS: Twelve restaurant is partnering with Glidden Point Oysters on their picturesque patio overlooking the Maine coast. Sommelier Jenn Forge, has handpicked four outstanding wines perfectly suited to complement Glidden Point’s oysters from the Damariscotta River, some of the best oysters Maine has to offer.
Enjoy these wines by the glass or indulge in a tasting flight. No reservations or tickets needed, so stop by anytime from 3 pm until close for an unbeatable view, vibrant atmosphere, delicious oysters, and refreshingly crushable wines. The ultimate start to patio season!
Outdoors on the patio (weather permitting).
WINES: 2.5 oz half-glasses / 5 oz full glasses. Also enjoy a flight of 4 half-glasses.
NV Andre Clouet ‘Silver’ Brut Nature Champagne $14/28
2023 Ameztoi, Hondarrabi Zuri, Txakoli, Spain $8/16
2021 William Fevre “Champs Royaux” Chablis, Burgundy, France $10/20
2022 Pepiere “Clos des Briords” Muscadet , Sevre et Maine, Loire Valley, France $8/16 **Flight (2.5 oz each) $40
***Wines subject to change based on availability
OYSTERS: $2 each, available a la carte. You may enjoy as many as you would like.
Glidden Point Oyster Farm, established in 1987, has cultivated a deep love for the Damariscotta River, nurturing oysters within its pristine waters. Years of practice revealed a winning combination for growing GPO oysters: the perfect synergy of location and dedicated husbandry. Tiny oyster seeds, nestled in surface cages, begin their slow growth in the river's cold embrace. Once mature, we transplant them to the riverbed where, nestled amongst the pebbles and sand, they develop their signature deep cup over a few years. Our exceptional Maine oysters are hand-harvested by divers, minimizing disruption to the delicate ecosystem. This dedication, from seed to harvest, has earned Glidden Point national recognition for producing world-class oysters. Paired with a fine wine and the touch of a talented chef, these briny gems can be transformed into a sensational culinary experience.
RESERVE: No reservations or tickets required. Though there may be a wai to get in if seats are full.
LINKS: Twelve, Glidden Point Oysters
PHONE: (207) 910-7400
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Sommelier Jenn Forge | Born and raised in Portland, Maine, Jenn is a veteran of the city’s restaurant scene having experience in every front of the house position over the last 17 years. A local favorite bartender, Jenn’s love of wine began while working at Munjoy Hill’s highly regarded Lolita and her last position at Via Vecchia before joining the opening team at Twelve. She is a certified sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, has a degree in hospitality management, and has recently been accepted to participate in the Advanced Sommelier Course through the Court. She has also completed the WSET Advanced Level 3 course and feels that exploring both paths have been beneficial to her wine education. “First and foremost, I’m grateful to work in a restaurant where I’m surrounded by so many talented people—it’s nothing short of inspiring. I want the wine list at Twelve to be both approachable and impressive to cater to Portland’s diverse demographic. I am committed to serving every guest a delicious bottle (or glass) of wine, regardless of price point, with un-paralleled hospitality.”
(SOLD OUT) WINE BRUNCH: Fabulous Champagne Brunch @ Chaval
DETAILS: Join the incredible team at Chaval for the indulgent and unmissable Fabulous Champagne Brunch, including Krug Rosé (we repeat, Krug rosé) and caviar! The four-course brunch menu will feature four incredible expressions of Champagne, each paired with a decadent, French-inspired dish. Chaval’s talented culinary team, helmed by acclaimed chefs Damian Sansonetti and Ilma Lopez, will blow you away with a delicious menu utilizing local and regional ingredients, heritage meats, and caviar. This is truly a fantastic event for all lovers of fine bubbles and decadence. Tickets won’t last long.
Seating will be indoors or on the private patio if the weather permits.
FEATURED CHAMPANGES: Krug rosé! Other Featured Champagnes and Menu TBA
PRICE: $145 per person (plus tax and gratuity)
LINKS: Chaval
RESERVE: Email reservations@chavalmaine.com
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Chef Ilma Lopez has worked in some of the most demanding and rewarding kitchens in the industry, such as DB Bistro, Corton, Tailor, El Bulli, Café Boulud, and Le Bernardin. When she left New York City to the quieter reaches of Maine, Lopez found a new terrain she couldn’t resist. Arriving with a mastery of colors, flavors, textures, and spices—and a seasoned ability to work under pressure—Lopez makes classic dishes her own, with attention to micro-detail and thoughtful twists. For her work, Lopez earned a 2014 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Star Pastry Chef Award, Has been a multiple-time James Beard top-Chef finalist, and you may have seen her name in the September issue of Bon Appetit Magazine highlighting her incredible talents when naming Portland, Maine as their pick for Restaurant City of The Year. You can find her daily at their new bakeshop and luncheonette The Ugly Duckling.
Pictured: Champagnes poured at Chaval’s previous Portland Wine Week Fabulous Champagne Lunch. Stay tuned for what’s being poured at their equally Fabulous Champagne Brunch in 2024.
Before Chef Damian Sansonetti was the acclaimed chef de cuisine at the uber-French Bar Boulud in New York, co-owner Damian Sansonetti grew up savoring his mother's and grandmother's cooking from handmade pasta to grilled fish to learning how to cure meat and make sausages with his grandfather. A career in food was practically his birthright. After graduating from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Sansonetti worked at Nantucket’s Brant Point Grill and Pittsburgh’s Steelhead Grill, moving to New York to open Heartbeat in the W Hotel. Sansonetti met Daniel Boulud while working at Shallots in Midtown and eventually took a position at Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne. Sansonetti was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Award, Best Chef Northeast.
WINE SAIL: France @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join Sommelier Erica Archer, CWP, WSET Advanced, in beautiful Portland, Maine, for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront, with new seats added for everyone to be seated comfortably. You'll explore a selection of delicious quality wines from the diverse wine regions of France that you'll love to have in your repertoire.
Taste and learn about some delicious wines from the renowned and diverse sub-regions of France with all the varying climates, elevations, terrain, classic and emerging wines, and styles.
Find out what makes each wine region unique in the styles of wine they produce
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(SOLD OUT) SPECIAL EVENT: FLORAL ARRANGEMENT AND SIPS @ VIA VECCHIA
This event is currently sold out. Checkout Wearable Floral Arrangements and Sips @ ViA VECCHiA (6/16)!
DETAILS: Let creativity bloom this Portland Wine Week! Craft your own gorgeous seasonal bouquet, guided by florist Morgan Wagner-Holz of Elder Farm and Forage, while Sommelier Susannah Gleason leads a tasting of four deliciously paired wines in the beautiful surrounds of ViA VECCHiA. Get ready to show off your unique floral design and insider wine knowledge! Don’t wait around — tickets won’t last long.
ViA VECCHiA is an Italian-inspired small plates restaurant located in the heart of the Old Port in an iconic brick and ivy-covered building overlooking cobblestone streets. A destination for wine and dining, VV boasts a large wrap-around 20-seat bar surrounded by luxurious velvet booths in a warm, energetic atmosphere.
MENU: Four vibrant wines that will pair to enhance the bouquet-making experience
PRICE: $85 per person all inclusive (30 tickets available)
LINKS: ViA VECCHiA, Elder Farm and Forage
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Susannah Gleason, Via Vecchia’s wine director, has experience in all facets of the restaurant and retail wine industries. Her focus at Via Vecchia is on helping staff and guests navigate the occasionally complex world of classic Italian wines. Susannah holds an advanced certificate in wine from WSET, and enjoys furthering her knowledge through practical experience as well as personal exploration.
We are so excited to have Morgan Wagner-Holz of Elder Farm and Forage join us for this special event. Her focus is on creating gorgeous, seasonal bouquets from blooms she cultivates herself on her farm in Windham.
(SOLD OUT) WINE DINNER: 7-Course LOPEZ DE HEREDIA LIBRARY WINES @ CHAVAL
DETAILS: Get ready to be dazzled during this exclusive wine dinner featuring the Rioja wines of Lopez de Heredia, paired with delicious 7 courses from acclaimed culinary duo, Chef Damian Sansonetti and Chef Ilma Lopez of Chaval. Lopez de Heredia is recognized as one of the all-time greatest Rioja producers, a legendary winemaking family that has been making wine the same way since it began in 1877, now in the hands of 4th generation winemaker Mercedes Lopez de Heredia. Not only will you have the opportunity to taste a portfolio of these incredible wines (which also happen to be one of the Chefs’ favorites), you’ll savor them with delicious dishes inspired by Spanish flavors and flair, featuring regional and local ingredients, with an exquisite touch. Seating is limited to only 10 people seated in their intimate private dining room.
FEATURED WINES:
2011 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Gravonia, Rioja Crianza Blanco, Spain
2010 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Tondonia, Rioja Reserva Blanco, Spain
2012 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Bosconia, Rioja Reserva, Spain
2007 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Tondonia, Rioja Reserva, Spain
2006 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Tondonia, Rioja Reserva, Spain
2005 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Tondonia, Rioja Reserva, Spain
2001 R. Lopez De Heredia, Viña Tondonia, Rioja Reserva, Spain
RESERVE: Via email reservations@chavalmaine.com
PRICE: $199 plus tax and gratuity
LINKS: Chaval, Ugly Duckling
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
BIOS:
Before Chef Damian Sansonetti was the acclaimed chef de cuisine at the uber-French Bar Boulud in New York, co-owner Damian Sansonetti grew up savoring his mother's and grandmother's cooking from handmade pasta to grilled fish to learning how to cure meat and make sausages with his grandfather. A career in food was practically his birthright. After graduating from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Sansonetti worked at Nantucket’s Brant Point Grill and Pittsburgh’s Steelhead Grill, moving to New York to open Heartbeat in the W Hotel. Sansonetti met Daniel Boulud while working at Shallots in Midtown and eventually took a position at Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne. Sansonetti was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Award, Best Chef Northeast.
Chef Ilma Lopez has worked in some of the most demanding and rewarding kitchens in the industry, such as DB Bistro, Corton, Tailor, El Bulli, Café Boulud, and Le Bernardin. When she left New York City to the quieter reaches of Maine, Lopez found a new terrain she couldn’t resist. Arriving with a mastery of colors, flavors, textures, and spices—and a seasoned ability to work under pressure—Lopez makes classic dishes her own, with attention to micro-detail and thoughtful twists. For her work, Lopez earned a 2014 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Star Pastry Chef Award, Has been a multiple-time James Beard top-Chef finalist, and you may have seen her name in the September issue of Bon Appetit Magazine highlighting her incredible talents when naming Portland, Maine as their pick for Restaurant City of The Year. You can find her daily at their new bakeshop and luncheonette The Ugly Duckling.
WINE DINNER: 4-Course French Wine Dinner @ The Grill Room Annex
DETAILS: Chef Harding Lee Smith and his culinary team are excited to indulge you in a decedent 4-course French wine and food experience in their new space. Reserve your seats for this delicious dinner while they last.
MENU:
First Course
Trio of Oysters – 3 Local oysters with 3 unique garnishes
*Domaine Michel Briday, Brut, Cremant de Bourgogne, France
Second Course
Olive oil poached Halibut – crab and clam nage, asparagus
*2021 Domaine Delaporte, Silex Sancerre Blanc, France
Third Course
Roasted Saddle of Rabbit – peas and carrots, parsnip, rabbit jus
2021 Chateau de Beaucastel, Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge, Côtes du Rhone, France
Fourth Course
Local Strawberries – goat cheese mousse, fennel tuile, hazelnuts
*2019 Chateau Rieussec, Carmes de Rieussec, Sauternes, France
PRICE: $135 (tax and gratuity excluded)
LINK: The Grill Room Annex
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Harding Lee Smith, Chef/Owner of “The Rooms”
(SOLD OUT) SUNSET WINE SAIL: Spain @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront, with new seats added for everyone to be seated comfortably. You'll explore a selection of delicious quality wines from the diverse wine regions of Spain that you'll love to have in your repertoire.
Taste and learn about some delicious wines from the renowned and diverse sub-regions of Spain with all of its varying climates, elevations, terrain, classic and emerging wines, and styles.
Find out what makes each Spanish wine region unique in the styles of wine they produce
Discuss the major and emerging Spanish grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(sold out) Wine Dinner: 7-Course Wine Pairing Experience @ David’s Opus Ten
DETAILS: Enjoy the creative cooking and personal attention of Chef David Turin during this 7-course wine dinner, taking place Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday during Portland Wine Week. Locally sourced seasonal dishes paired with seven wonderful wines, each selected to perfectly complement the lineage and style of these reconstructed classic dishes. Seating is limited to 18 guests per night, so don’t wait around to secure your seats!
David’s is also offering this Wine Dinner on:
Each seating if limited to 18 guests.
PRICE: $185/per person (not including tax and gratuity)
LINK: David’s Opus 10
Menu modifications are politely declined. Cancellation is 1 week in advance. Full ticket price will be charged for no shows.
MENU
Three oysters
pears and prosecco
Torched with fine herbs, garlic and butter
Crispy fried in arborio rice with citrus aioli
NV Gonet Medeville, Premier Cru Champagne. France
___________________
Foie gras and chicken liver mousse
Pickled pear • oloroso cherries • pickled Fresno • ginger white balsamic • brioche • frisse
2022 Dr. Thanisch Riesling, Mosel, Germany
____________________
Opus cioppino
Mussels • clams • peaky toe crab • cod fish • wine, tomato and chili broth
2021 Ramey Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA
____________________
Sorbet
Peach • blackberry • lemon • thyme
Frozen vodka
____________________
Raviolo al uovo
Roasted exotic mushrooms • sage brown butter • guanciale • pecorino romano
2019 Louis Latour Marsannay, Burgundy, France
____________________
Lamb
Roasted saddle • pressé with dates • Moroccan spiced winter vegetables
Madras curry and coconut demi glaze • pomegranate glaze
2021 Famille Perrin, Chateauneuf de Pape, Rhone, France
___________________
Apple tart tatin
Cinnamon- ginger ice cream
2020 Chateau Rieussec Sauterne
___________________
Mignardises
Milk chocolate truffle • blackberry tartlette • pistachio - cherry macaron
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Special Event: Brut Nature Release Party @ Cellardoor Winery Tasting Room
DETAILS: Be among the first to taste the 2021 vintage of Brut Nature Rosé, an exclusive estate-grown sparkling wine made in Lincolnville, Maine. To celebrate the release, Cellardoor Winery is hosting a party at its gorgeous downtown Portland tasting room. Enjoy a complimentary pour of the delightfully dry sparkling rosé alongside delicious hors d’oeuvres as you mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts. Curious about cold climate viticulture? Winemakers Aaron and CC Peet will be in attendance ready to answer your questions.
Cellardoor Winery's facility is located in Lincolnville, Maine, and uses fruit from their Estate Vineyard and premier appellations in Washington, California, and New York states.
WINE: The 2021 Brut Nature Rose is a co-ferment of Lincolnville estate-grown L’Acadie blanc, Frontenac blanc, and Marquette. Following primary fermentation, the wine was aged in stainless steel tanks for 8 months prior to bottling the base wine with yeast and sugar for a Traditional Method bottle fermentation. Following completion of bottle fermentation, the wine was aged on the lees for an additional 20 months before disgorging the yeast and corking. Cellardoor finished the wine with zero sugar for a delicious, dry brut nature sparkling rose.
PRICE: Admission is free and includes one complimentary glass of Brut Nature Rose per guest. Additional wine pours are $12 per glass (excluding gratuity).
LINK: Cellardoor Winery
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(SOLD OUT) WINE SAIL: Amber, Orange, + Rosé @ WINE WISE
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot Sailboat, Frances as you explore five delicious quality Orange & Rosé wines with Sommelier Erica Archer. You're in for an incredible wine education experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways.
Taste and learn about a series of five delicious orange and rosé wines from around the world that you’ll love
Find out where the color of orange and rosé wine comes from
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention.
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting your next bottle of wine
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(SOLD OUT) WINE HAPPY HOUR: Fizz Friday: Sip, Savor, and Sparkle @ Angoor Wine Bar
DETAILS: Add some sparkle to your Friday at one of Portland’s newest wine bars during Portland Wine Week! Local wine aficionado Laura Zimmerman of Crush will be in attendance to guide you through flights of delightful sparkling wine, from Prosecco to Cava to Champagne, while you sample miniature gourmet cheese and charcuterie boards from The Cheese Shop on the outdoor patio (weather permitting).
This event is limited to 30 people. A $10 gift card will her offered per person to be used that day or a future visit at Angoor!
Angoor, meaning “grape” in Hindi, is a new “self-pour” wine bar in Portland, where guests can explore wine regions of the world through two, four, and six-ounce servings from a selection of 32–48 rotating wines.
PRICE: $50 per person
LINKS: Angoor Wine Bar
PHONE: For questions, please call: 978-509-4104
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Laura Zimmerman | Originally hailing from Philadelphia, Laura Zimmerman has been living and working in Maine for twenty-two years. A veteran of the hospitality industry, Laura has been a sales representative with Crush Distributors since its inception in 2009, helping bring the company into the forefront of the New England distributor market. Her experiences meeting producers and their families, learning about different winemaking traditions across the globe, and all the unforgettable moments she's collected over the years remind her every day that it's about more than what's in the bottle.
WINE BRUNCH: BRUNCH AND BUBBLES WITH OYSTER RIVER WINEGROWERS @ OCOTILLO
DETAILS: Ocotillo [oh-koh-tee-yo], a new brunch spot coming to you from the amazing team at Terlingua, in Portland's West End neighborhood, is welcoming Maine’s Oyster River Winegrowers for a one-time Brunch and Bubbles event during Portland Wine Week! Chef Al Zoni will prepare Mexican and Southwestern Springtime-inspired flavors that will pair perfectly with the distinct, natural, terroir-driven wines made by the acclaimed Oyster River Winegrowers team in midcoast Maine!
Wines will be offered by the glass alongside a delicious a la carte menu. Winemaker Brian Smith will be present to talk with guests about the winemaking process and story of Oyster River. Oyster River is a small farm winery in Warren, Maine. Since 2007, Oyster River has been making lively wines and ciders in a low-intervention style from both its own fruit, and fruit sourced from other growers in the Northeast. The vineyards and orchards are managed organically, and in the summer months the barn opens as a popular gathering spot for adventurous wine drinkers from near and far.
LINKS: Ocotillo, Oyster River Winegrowers
WINES:
Maine-Grown:
2021 Oyster River “Chaos” White Sparkling Wine: $12 2.5oz. // $24 5oz. // $60 BTL
A 100-percent homegrown, traditional-method sparkling wine (aka Champagne) made from organically managed La Crescent and Vidal Blanc vineyards. The wine is fermented with only the wild yeasts naturally occurring on the grape skins, aged on the lees in bottle, then riddled and hand-disorged with no sulfur added and no sugar dosage. This is coastal Maine's un-manipulated terroir, where brutality and tension produce dramatic beauty. Really fine bubbles and acidity accompany a deeply savory yeastiness.
2023 Oyster River “Carbonic Nation” Red: $9 2.5oz. // $18 5oz. // $45 BTL
A carbonic fermentation of 100-percent Maine fruit makes for a deep, fruity red with a little prickle of residual carbon dioxide on the pallet. No sulfites added and unfiltered. Serve at cool cellar temp.
Wildman Dry Cider 750ml: $12 // $35 BTL
Produced from apples gathered from wild seedling trees and old unmaintained trees of unknown varieties. Wild yeast fermented, unfiltered, bottle conditioned, no sulfites added.
North Fork, Long Island, New York Grown:
2023 Oyster River “Morphos Pet Nat White” $12 // $35 BTL
Bottled during the end of active fermentation, this wine continues to ferment in the bottle leaving it dry, cloudy, yeasty, and full of life, with a natural effervescence. Released just after bottling, it is the fresh wine of the harvest. Morphos is fresh and fruity after bottling, but ages gracefully into more yeasty, toasty aromas. Made from a blend of Cayuga and Seval grapes from Finger Lakes region, New York.
2022 Oyster River “Morphos Pet Nat Rosé” $12 // $35 BTL
A pétillant naturel style wine made from 100-percent Merlot from the North Fork of Long Island. The wine is wild fermented in the barn with no added sulfur and bottled toward the end of active fermentation. It continues to ferment in the bottle and is never filtered, creating a fizzy, yeasty and refreshing living rosé.
BIOS:
Head Chef Al Zoni has a passion and talent in using foraged and farmed seasonally-driven local ingredients matched with Ocotillo’s Mexican and Southwestern driven influences on the menu.
Brian Smith is the winemaker at Oyster River Winegrowers. He has a traditional education in winemaking from Fresno State University, and uses that knowledge base to make distinct wines in ways that may have been common in pre-industrial times. He believes his role in the winemaking process to be more nature's assistant than winemaker. Most of our fermentations start spontaneously with wild yeasts that occur on the fruit and in the cellar, and play out over the course of several months. We add nothing and take nothing away from the natural chemistry of the fruit. All of Oyster River’s ciders and our sparkling wines are bottled without the addition of sulfites and are not filtered. Still wines are minimally sulfited where necessary. The farm supplies the fruit for Chaos, a homegrown traditional method sparkling wine, Carbonic Nation, and a good portion of its cider. Oyster River’s other wines are made with fruit purchased from close contacts in the Northeast.
The vineyards consist of the following varieties: LaCrescent, Vidal Blanc, L’Acadie Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Marquette, Sabrevois, and St. Croix. We have a couple acres of orchards, consisting of Cider-specific varieties as well as wild “seedling” apples on the farm. Our vineyards and orchards are managed organically.
(7 Spaces) SUNSET WINE SAIL: Greece @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront, with new seats added for everyone to be seated comfortably. You'll explore a selection of delicious quality wines from the renowned wine regions of Greece that you'll love to have in your repertoire.
Taste and learn about five delicious wines from Greece’s mainland, peninsula, and islands.
Find out what makes Greece’s regions and sub-regions unique in their styles of wine.
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention.
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting wine.
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level.
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(SOLD OUT) WINE DINNER: 5-Course Alsatian-Inspired Wine Dinner with Rick Rainey of Forge Cellars @ Chaval
DETAILS: Take a gastronomic journey to Alsace as you sample boutique-made wines from Forge Celllar winery of Seneca, New York, during this unique 5-course Wine Dinner. Renowned Chefs Ilma Lopez and Damian Sansonetti will interpret the distinctive dishes of the Rhine region, while winemaker Rick Rainey pour bone-dry Riesling, cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc and introduces you to the terroir of the Finger Lakes Region of New York. Chaval’s Alsatian dinners are not to be missed.
PRICE: $120 (plus tax & gratuity)
RESERVE: Via email reservations@chavalmaine.com
LINKS: Chaval, Ugly Duckling, Forge Cellar
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
BIOS:
Before Chef Damian Sansonetti was the acclaimed chef de cuisine at the uber-French Bar Boulud in New York, co-owner Damian Sansonetti grew up savoring his mother's and grandmother's cooking from handmade pasta to grilled fish to learning how to cure meat and make sausages with his grandfather. A career in food was practically his birthright. After graduating from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Sansonetti worked at Nantucket’s Brant Point Grill and Pittsburgh’s Steelhead Grill, moving to New York to open Heartbeat in the W Hotel. Sansonetti met Daniel Boulud while working at Shallots in Midtown and eventually took a position at Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne. Sansonetti was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Award, Best Chef Northeast.
Chef Ilma Lopez has worked in some of the most demanding and rewarding kitchens in the industry, such as DB Bistro, Corton, Tailor, El Bulli, Café Boulud, and Le Bernardin. When she left New York City to the quieter reaches of Maine, Lopez found a new terrain she couldn’t resist. Arriving with a mastery of colors, flavors, textures, and spices—and a seasoned ability to work under pressure—Lopez makes classic dishes her own, with attention to micro-detail and thoughtful twists. For her work, Lopez earned a 2014 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Star Pastry Chef Award, Has been a multiple-time James Beard top-Chef finalist, and you may have seen her name in the September issue of Bon Appetit Magazine highlighting her incredible talents when naming Portland, Maine as their pick for Restaurant City of The Year. You can find her daily at their new bakeshop and luncheonette The Ugly Duckling.
Rick Rainey | Managing Partner & Conductor of Forge Cellars
Born in Florida, Rick came to the Finger Lakes by way of the Philadelphia restaurant industry with the aim of someday owning a winery. For more than two decades, Rick has been involved in all aspects of the distribution business, from his role as a wine buyer for a French portfolio to managing a team of nine sales people. He naturally gravitates to working in partnership with growers and alongside the vines but also enjoys the cellar, as it is the culmination of all their hard work.
(SOLD OUT) Wine Dinner: 7-Course Wine Pairing Experience @ David’s Opus Ten
DETAILS: Enjoy the creative cooking and personal attention of Chef David Turin during this 7-course wine dinner, taking place Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday during Portland Wine Week. Locally sourced seasonal dishes paired with seven wonderful wines, each selected to perfectly complement the lineage and style of these reconstructed classic dishes. Seating is limited to 18 guests per night, so don’t wait around to secure your seats!
David’s is also offering this Wine Dinner on:
Each seating if limited to 18 guests.
PRICE: $185/per person (not including tax and gratuity)
LINK: David’s Opus 10
Menu modifications are politely declined. Cancellation is 1 week in advance. Full ticket price will be charged for no shows.
MENU
Three oysters
pears and prosecco
Torched with fine herbs, garlic and butter
Crispy fried in arborio rice with citrus aioli
NV Gonet Medeville, Premier Cru Champagne. France
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Foie gras and chicken liver mousse
Pickled pear • oloroso cherries • pickled Fresno • ginger white balsamic • brioche • frisse
2022 Dr. Thanisch Riesling, Mosel, Germany
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Opus cioppino
Mussels • clams • peaky toe crab • cod fish • wine, tomato and chili broth
2021 Ramey Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA
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Sorbet
Peach • blackberry • lemon • thyme
Frozen vodka
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Raviolo al uovo
Roasted exotic mushrooms • sage brown butter • guanciale • pecorino romano
2019 Louis Latour Marsannay, Burgundy, France
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Lamb
Roasted saddle • pressé with dates • Moroccan spiced winter vegetables
Madras curry and coconut demi glaze • pomegranate glaze
2021 Famille Perrin, Chateauneuf de Pape, Rhone, France
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Apple tart tatin
Cinnamon- ginger ice cream
2020 Chateau Rieussec Sauterne
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Mignardises
Milk chocolate truffle • blackberry tartlette • pistachio - cherry macaron
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
SPECIAL EVENT: Classics Redefined x PortoVino Glass Pour Takeover @ Leeward
DETAILS: Make your reservations for a magnificent night of incredible Italian food, delicious wines, and wonderful people. Tess Drumheller of PortoVino, Dyane Lacerda of Wicked, and Paige Buehrer, Wine Director at Leeward, are pouring wines redefining classic Italian wine regions, available by the glass or half glass. Enjoy 2024 James Beard Award-Nominated, Best Chef Northeast, Jake Steven's incredible cuisine along side these wines hand-selected to elevate your dining experience (who knew it could get even better!)
WINE:
2019 i Custodi 'Imbris' Etna Bianco Superiore, Contrada Caselle, Sicily, Italy, Carricante
2022 Società Agricola il Sasso Valpolicella Classico DOC, Veneto, Italy, Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella
2021 Bakkanali Toscana Rosso IGT, Tuscany, Italy, Sangiovese
and/or other surprises
PRICE: price varies per half glasses, glasses, and bottles
LINK: Leeward
PHONE: 207-808-8623
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Sommelier Paige Buehrer | Paige is the extremely talented wine director and general manager at Leeward! Thanks to Paige, Leeward will be pouring some truly exciting wines during their Portland Wine Week event, you don’t want to miss it!
Dyane Lacerda, Wicked Wines | Wicked Wines is a mid-coast based distributor of responsibly farmed wines from independent producers. Dyane has been working for this company as a sales representative for five years. Being in the wine business has inspired her to learn about geography, geology, agriculture, history, and cuisine. She loves the experience of the perfect wine and food pairing and sharing that knowledge for others to enjoy.
Chef/Owner Jake Stevens is nominated for the 2024 Best Chef Northeast by the James Beard foundation. In 2022 Leeward restaurant snagged their nomination for Best New Restaurant, and the again that year as one of America’s Best new restaurants by the New York Times. And many many more very deserved accolades. Make your reservations today!
Tess Drumheller, PortoVino | A New Yorker with New England roots, started working with wine importers 14 years ago, focusing on traditional, farming-forward, low-intervention wine curation. Tess became PortoVino's Northeast territory manager in 2020 after several years dedicated to growing their distribution and market share in NYC.
For nearly 2 decades, PortoVino [@portovino_imports] has been traveling Italy's backroads to create a portfolio of compelling wines that both excite and express unique areas and growers. In 2020, with the same care and attention to detail, a small German and Austrian portfolio was added; in 2023 came the launch of a French portfolio. PortoVino represents iconic traditional growers and the edgy outliers. All are family wineries that don't use synthetic chemicals in the vineyards and follow a minimal intervention approach in the cellar.
WINE HAPPY HOUR: VINO E APERITIVO @ SOLO ITALIANO
DETAILS: Historically a Northern Italian concept from Genoa to Milan and Venice, Aperitivo Hour is flush with appetizing beverages and small bites. Solo Italiano will embrace this tradition and open the doors to its bar area and patio for Portland Wine Week's visitors and showcase Aperitivo Hour's full, authentic experience. Chef Paolo Laboa, a native of Genoa, will curate an array of complimentary small bites to pair with appetizing wines, vermouths, and/or wine-based spirit cocktails. Opportunities to relax and taste your way through a flight of vermouth, while learning a bit about this dynamic of wine culture abound. The goal is to be in the company of friends, food, and beverage—the true trifecta of a rich, social culture, and something that has found a renewed sense of purpose these days.
PRICE: Varies, on beverage consumption.
LINK: Solo Italiano
RESERVE: NO RESERVATIONS NECESSARY! JUST COME! Guests will be served on a first come, first served basis.
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
WEEKLONG: THE FUTURE (OF WINE) IS FEMALE @ FRIENDS & FAMILY
DETAILS: Join Friends & Family Thursday - Sunday* for a celebration of female and nonbinary winemakers! Each day will feature a special bottle from some of their favorite producers, each showcasing a different region, growing style, or winemaker journey. This is your chance to savor some truly rare and delicious selections, all available by the glass and by the bottle. All of the wines will also be clearly marked and available for purchase so that you can take your favorite bottles home with you. *Note Friends & Family is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Sommelier Cecily Upton will be one of the fabulous sommeliers participating in the Grand Opening Women in Wine Dinner: Who Paired it Better? Sponsored by Bangor Savings @ Falmouth Country Club (6/10).
This is an un-ticketed event. Reservations not required; walk-ins welcome.
PRICE: $15/glass, bottle prices vary
PHONE: (207) 536-4022
LINKS: Friends & Family
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(6 Spaces) Wine Sail: Pacific Northwest @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot Sailboat, Frances as you explore five delicious quality wines from the Pacific Northwest with Sommelier Erica Archer. You're in for an incredible wine education experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways.
Taste and learn about a series of five delicious wines of the Pacific Northwest that you’ll thoroughly enjoy and love having in your repertoire. We’ll be pouring two of our most favorite wines that we’ve discovered lately.
Discover classic and emerging wines, varieties, and styles found in these regions.
Discuss the major grape varieties and styles worthy of your attention
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a wine label when selecting wine.
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level.
Enjoy our delicious selection of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, crackers, etc… presented in your own individual box. We are not able to accommodate food allergies or substitutions during these sails. But you may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations of any kind.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
WEEKLONG: TASTE OF MAINE TERROIR @ CELLARDOOR WINERY Portland
DETAILS: Join Cellardoor Winery for "A Taste of Maine Terroir" in their Portland tasting room during Portland Wine Week. Sample the preset flight and experience Maine-grown and crafted wines. For nearly twenty years, the Cellardoor team, spearheaded by Winemakers Aaron and CC Peet, has pioneered the cultivation of cold-hardy grape varieties for Maine's distinctive maritime climate. The challenge of growing grapes in Maine is also what makes Cellardoor's vineyard unique. They believe the spirit of meeting those challenges, and the unique environment and climate of Maine, is present in every sip.
Cellardoor Winery's winemaking facility and vineyard is located in Lincolnville, Maine. Each wine is made using fruit from their Estate Vineyard and from premier appellations in Washington, California, and New York states. From the 5.5 acre estate vineyard, Cellardoor grows Marquette, Frontenac blanc, and Frontenac gris grapes, developed by the University of Minnesota viticulture programs in the 1980s and 1990s; as well as L'Acadie blanc grapes, developed in Ontario, Canada in the 1950s.
This is an un-ticketed event! Reservations not required; walk-ins welcome.
HOURS:
Thursday 3:00 - 7:00 PM
Friday 12:00 - 7:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 - 7:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 - 5:00 PM
PRICE: $20 tasting flight / $12 glasses of wine. Tax and gratuity not included.
LINK: Cellardoor Winery
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(2 SPACES) WINE LUNCH: OCCHIPINTI @ CENTRAL PROVISIONS
Details: Join the incredible team at Central Provisions for a highly exclusive (only 20 seats!), four-course wine luncheon featuring the wines of Arianna Occhipinti, each paired with delicious food from acclaimed Chef Chris Gould and his culinary team. Winemaker Arianna Occhipinti’s name graces just about every women winemaker list in the world. She began her foray into wine at the age of 16 with an introduction by her uncle Giusto Occhipinti, whose COS wines are undisputedly amongst the best of Sicily. Over the years she has climbed to stratospheric fame. Her wines are made with a focus on a quality expression of the terroir of each vineyard made in small lots, making them difficult to come by but highly sought after. Wine Director Victoria Barthelmes will guide you through each incredible wine pour.
WINES:
2021 Occhipinti, SP68 Bianco, Terre Siciliane (60% Zibibbo,40% Albanello)
From certified organic vines, averaging more than 20 years old and planted on chalky, sandy soils. The bunches are harvested by hand, destemmed, and co-fermented spontaneously with native yeasts in concrete tanks. Maceration lasts approximately two weeks. The wine is aged in concrete tanks for six months and bottled unfiltered.2020 Occhipinti, Vino di Contrada BB Bombolieri, Terre Siciliane (100% Frappato)
This wine shows a slightly more saturated hue with dark fruit flavors of black cherry and fresh plum. I like the impeccable balance of the BB (from the Contrada Bombolieri with sandy soils and stones), which is more accessible and primary next to the Contrada PT and without the earthy overtones you get in the Contrada FL. Sulfur use is minimal.2020 Occhipinti, Vino di Contrada PT Pettineo, Terre Siciliane (100% Frappato)
A few miles away from Bombolieri and Fossa di Lupo, the 0.9-hectare “Pettineo” plot features the oldest Frappato vines (60 years) in Vittoria. They grow on 25 inches of fine orange sand over tufa (a porous limestone) and are a mix of alberello and guyot training. This site is the first of the three to be harvested. Arianna finds a forward fruitiness and fine, smooth tannins in this wine, loaded with flavors of sweet and sour cherries, orange peel, ash, and tobacco. With regards to Arianna’s other two single-vineyard Frappatos, PT is the most juicy, bright, and fruit-driven.2020 Occhipinti, Siccagno, Sicilia DOC (100% Nero d'Avola)
From multiple, certified organic parcels with vines averaging 35 years old, planted on red-sandy, limestone soils and trained in alberello and guyot. The bunches are hand-harvested and destemmed with the berries left whole. Fermentation is spontaneous with native yeasts in 20-hectoliter concrete tanks and with approximately 30 days of maceration and only gentle extraction. The wine is aged for 22 months in 25-hectoliter Slavonian oak barrels and is bottled without fining or filtration. Sulfur use is minimal. "Siccagno" is the local dialect for "totally dry.” Chili pepper, wet tobacco, and black cherries collide on the nose while the palate can be characterized by dark licorice, tart dark cherry, ashy charcoal, and fresh potting soil.
TICKETS: 20 tickets available
PRICE: $200 per person (plus tip and service)
LINK: Central Provisions
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
Chef Chris Gould began his culinary career at the age of 15 as a summer dishwasher and prep cook at the Bethel Inn in Bethel, Maine. He spent the following summer on the line working sauté and then enrolled in The Balsams’ accredited American Culinary Foundation apprenticeship program where he trained under several Certified Master Chefs and Bakers such as Chef Roland Henin, Chef Phil Learned, and Chef Steve James. After graduating from The Balsams in 2006, Chris landed in Boston working at Clio Restaurant as a Garde Manager cook; within a year he was chef tournant, also taking on the position of sashimi assistant at Uni. In 2009, he was the opening sous chef at Chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette's Coppa Enoteca. Later that year, Chef Oringer asked Chris to return to Uni as his chef de cuisine, where he spent the next three years. He met his future wife and business partner, Paige Gould at Clio and in October 2012, the two moved to Portland, Maine. Chris and Paige spent two years making Central Provisions a reality, and in February 2014, they opened the doors to national acclaim, including a nomination for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation. Three years later, they opened Tipo restaurant, specializing in Neapolitan pizzas, pasta, and small plates.
Sommelier Victoria Barthelmes curates the wine program at Central Provisions and Tipo Restaurant. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she focused the beginning of her career in New York City at Lincoln Ristorante under Chef Richard Capizzi and Johnathan Beno. While at Lincoln, Victoria was an integral part of the team that also produced the pastry program offered at the Metropolitan Opera, Lincoln Center, and elaborate wedding cakes for the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. Upon moving to Maine in 2015, she began purchasing wine as a General Manager for a cafe and market in Cape Elizabeth. When she joined the team at Tipo, she worked her way up to General Manager and eventually took over the wine director role for both of the Goulds’ restaurants. She earned her first-level degree with the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2023.
SUNSET WINE SAIL: Sparkling Wines @ Wine Wise
DETAILS: Join presenting sponsor Wine Wise for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot Sailboat, Frances as you explore some delicious sparkling wines from around the world with Sommelier Erica Archer. You're in for an incredible wine education experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways.
Taste and learn about a series of five delicious sparkling wines from around the world, including, of course, Champagne, France that you’ll love having in your repertoire.
Discover classic and emerging sparkling wine regions, styles, and producers that this exciting and growing category of sparkling wines has to offer.
Discuss the major styles of sparkling wines (e.g., pet-nat, Charmant, and Methode Champagnoise) worthy of your attention.
Learn what to expect from certain terms on a sparkling wine label when selecting your next glass or bottle.
Learn the basics of tasting or take your wine knowledge to the next level
Enjoy your delicious box of cheeses, cured meats, fruit, nuts, crackers, etc. Due to the nature of our events, we cannot accommodate food allergies, commissions, accommodations, or substitutions during these sails. You may bring your own snack if you have food allergies or hesitations.
PRICE: $150 per person
LINK: Wine Wise
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
(2 seats remaining) WINE DINNER: 4-Course SAMSARA WINE DINNER with Joan Szkutak @ CHAVAL
DETAILS: Indulge in a fabulous French-inspired cuisine with a New England flair, paired fine with wines from SAMsARA–considered one of the top Syrah producers in California. Owner Joan Szkutak will present the wines and her share insights into her highly exclusive wines and sustainable winemaking process. As you sip and explore each small-batch wine, enjoy delicious dishes made from local ingredients prepared by Chaval’s acclaimed owners, Chefs Damian Sansonetti and Pastry Chef Ilma Lopez. Seats are extremely limited. Book your table before it’s too late!
PRICE: $129 plus tax and gratuity
LINKS: Chaval
RESERVE: Via email reservations@chavalmaine.com
Portland Wine Week is Presented by Wine Wise with Partner Sponsors Bangor Savings and Buoy Local.
BIOS:
Before Chef Damian Sansonetti was the acclaimed chef de cuisine at the uber-French Bar Boulud in New York, co-owner Damian Sansonetti grew up savoring his mother's and grandmother's cooking from handmade pasta to grilled fish to learning how to cure meat and make sausages with his grandfather. A career in food was practically his birthright. After graduating from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Sansonetti worked at Nantucket’s Brant Point Grill and Pittsburgh’s Steelhead Grill, moving to New York to open Heartbeat in the W Hotel. Sansonetti met Daniel Boulud while working at Shallots in Midtown and eventually took a position at Boulud’s DB Bistro Moderne. Sansonetti was a 2022 finalist for the James Beard Award, Best Chef Northeast.
Chef Ilma Lopez has worked in some of the most demanding and rewarding kitchens in the industry, such as DB Bistro, Corton, Tailor, El Bulli, Café Boulud, and Le Bernardin. When she left New York City to the quieter reaches of Maine, Lopez found a new terrain she couldn’t resist. Arriving with a mastery of colors, flavors, textures, and spices—and a seasoned ability to work under pressure—Lopez makes classic dishes her own, with attention to micro-detail and thoughtful twists. For her work, Lopez earned a 2014 StarChefs Coastal New England Rising Star Pastry Chef Award, Has been a multiple-time James Beard top-Chef finalist, and you may have seen her name in the September issue of Bon Appetit Magazine highlighting her incredible talents when naming Portland, Maine as their pick for Restaurant City of The Year. You can find her daily at their new bakeshop and luncheonette The Ugly Duckling.
Joan Szkutak | Hailing from Maine, SAMsARA Wine Co. owner, began her career as engineer in the corporate world before she translated her talents into a boutique winery owner. Using low-intervention methods, SAMsARA produces limited releases of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Grenache and Chardonnay from carefully selected micro-sites around Santa Barbara.
