News
Welcome to the Willowcroft blog! This is where we will be highlighting events and news from around the winery.

Sip, Savor, Say 'I Do': A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Wines
As spring nears and love blooms, wedding season comes into full swing. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, selecting the right wines can enhance the joy of your special day. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect wines for your wedding reception.
Start with What You Love
A wedding celebrates love, and your wine choices should reflect your tastes as a couple. Begin by scheduling a wine tasting (or two) at your favorite local wineries. Sample a variety of options and get a consensus between you and your partner before making a final decision. Selecting wines you both enjoy will make the experience more personal and memorable.
Consider the Time of Year
Seasonality plays a big role in choosing the right wines. For spring and summer weddings, lighter, more refreshing wines are ideal to complement the Virginia heat. A crisp Seyval Blanc or Chardonnay makes an excellent springtime white, while Vidal Blanc and Riesling offer excellent choices for summer. Regarding reds, lighter-bodied options like Chambourcin, Pinot Noir, or a refreshing Rosé are great for warmer months. For fall and winter weddings, bolder wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot may be more suitable.
Think About the Time of Day
The timing of your wedding can also influence your wine selection. Afternoon weddings typically call for lighter wines like Seyval Blanc or Pinot Noir to keep the mood bright and refreshing. When temperatures cool, evening receptions allow for fuller-bodied options, making a bold red like a rich Cabernet Sauvignon a great choice to pair with a hearty dinner.
Pair Wines with Your Menu
Food and wine pairings can elevate the dining experience at your wedding. While your caterer may have recommendations, here are some general guidelines to consider:
- Seyval Blanc: Pairs beautifully with oysters, seafood, and spicy dishes.
- Chardonnay: A versatile white that complements salmon, poultry, and scallops.
- Chambourcin: A great match for poultry, lamb, and pork.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A bold red that pairs exceptionally well with steak and other red meats.
By taking into account your personal preferences, the season, and your menu, you can create a delightful wine experience for you and your guests. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!

Merlot Vs. Petit Verdot. How to choose...
Merlot and Petit Verdot are two prominent red grape varieties that have found a welcoming home in Virginia's vineyards, each offering distinct characteristics that appeal to wine enthusiasts.
Merlot originated in Bordeaux, France, and is celebrated for its approachability and versatility. Typically, Merlot is a dry, medium- to full-bodied wine with moderate acidity, moderate to high alcohol content, and soft but present tannins. Flavor profiles often include notes of black cherry and chocolate.
Petit Verdot, also hailing from Bordeaux, is traditionally used as a blending grape but has gained recognition as a varietal wine, especially in regions like Virginia. Known for its late ripening, Petit Verdot produces deeply colored, full-bodied wines with high tannin levels. Flavor profiles often include rich blue and black fruit flavors, dominated by blackberry, blueberry, black currant, and black cherry. The wines can also be quite spicy, displaying aromatic floral and herbal character—showcased by violet, lavender, and dried herbs—and sometimes meaty, gamey notes.
In Virginia, both Merlot and Petit Verdot have adapted well to the state's diverse terroir. Merlot thrives in Virginia's clay-rich soils, making it the second most planted grape in the state. Petit Verdot has become one of Virginia's signature grapes, valued for its high acidity, which it retains despite the state's hot summers, and its resilience to varying weather conditions.
At Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, nestled atop the Catoctin Ridge in Leesburg, Virginia, both Merlot and Petit Verdot grapes are cultivated to produce distinctive wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Their Merlot offers a harmonious balance of fruit and tannins, while their Petit Verdot showcases the grape's characteristic depth and complexity.
Choosing Between Merlot and Petit Verdot
When deciding between Merlot and Petit Verdot, consider your personal taste preferences and the occasion. Merlot's softer tannins and approachable fruit flavors make it a versatile choice suitable for various settings, from casual gatherings to formal dinners. It's an excellent option for those who appreciate a smooth, fruit-forward wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes, including roasted meats, pasta, and mild cheeses.
On the other hand, Petit Verdot offers a more robust and intense experience. Its full body, higher tannin content, and complex flavor profile make it ideal for those who enjoy bold wines. Petit Verdot pairs exceptionally well with rich, hearty dishes such as grilled steaks, lamb, and strong cheeses, enhancing the dining experience with its depth and structure.
Ultimately, the choice between Merlot and Petit Verdot depends on your palate and the culinary context. Exploring both varietals, especially those produced by local wineries like Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, can provide a deeper appreciation for the diversity and quality of Virginia wines.

Why Your Wine Glass Isn’t Full—And Why That’s a Good Thing!
How Full Should You Fill Your Wine Glass?
Have you ever ordered a glass of wine and felt a pang of disappointment when it arrived looking half-empty? It’s a common reaction, but before you feel shortchanged, let’s talk about why wine glasses aren’t filled to the brim.
The Ideal Pour
The amount of wine poured into a glass isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in the wine’s taste and aroma. Generally, the ideal pour is about one-third to one-half full, depending on the type of wine and the glass itself. This may seem like a small amount, but there’s a good reason for it.
Why Not Fill It to the Top?
Wine needs room to breathe. When a glass is only partially filled, there’s ample space to swirl the wine, which helps release its aromas. This is especially important for red wines, known for their complex flavors and rich aromas, which benefit from aeration to open up their full bouquet of flavors. If a glass is filled to the brim, there’s no space for swirling, and the wine’s aromas remain trapped, limiting the tasting experience.
Different Wines, Different Pours
Not all wines are poured the same way. Here’s a general guideline:
- Red wine: Typically poured to about one-third full to allow proper aeration and development of flavors.
- White wine: Often poured slightly more, around one-half full, since it doesn’t require as much aeration. A standard serving is 5 ounces (150 milliliters), as recommended by the FDA, USDA, and CDC.
- Sparkling wine: Poured closer to three-quarters full to help preserve the bubbles and prevent excessive foaming.
- Dessert wine: Served in smaller glasses with smaller pours due to their higher sugar and alcohol content.
The Right Glass Matters
The structure of a wine glass plays a significant role in enhancing the wine’s characteristics. Oxygenation softens tannins in reds and enhances the delicate characteristics of whites, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable drinking experience.First things first: let’s talk about the glass itself. In general, red wine glasses are taller and feature a larger bowl. This is because red wines tend to be big and bold, requiring the extra space to fully experience their flavors and aromas. White wine glasses are typically smaller to preserve the aromas and keep the temperature cooler. The simplest method is to fill red wine glasses one-third full so you have room to give it a good swirl and aerate the wine, while white wine glasses should be filled half-full and sparkling wines about three-quarters full.
Don’t Feel Cheated—Savor the Experience
Instead of viewing a partially filled wine glass as a short pour, think of it as the perfect way to enjoy wine as intended. The space in the glass is just as important as the wine itself, allowing the aromas to develop, the flavors to shine, and the overall experience to be enhanced.
So, next time you receive a seemingly half-full glass, take a moment to swirl, sniff, and savor—because good wine is about more than just quantity; it’s about quality and experience!

Cheers to Friendship: Celebrate Galentine’s Day in Style!
Cheers to Friendship: Celebrate Galentine’s Day in Style!
February 13th isn’t just any day—it’s Galentine’s Day, a time to celebrate the incredible friendships that bring joy, laughter, and support into our lives. Whether you’re single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between, Galentine’s Day is all about appreciating the incredible women in your life and making memories together.
What is Galentine’s Day?
Originally coined by the beloved character Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day has since evolved into a widely celebrated occasion. It’s a day to gather your besties, enjoy great food, and toast to the bond of friendship—because love isn’t just romantic. It’s also found in the people who stand by us through thick and thin.
How to Celebrate Galentine’s Day
If you're looking for a reason to get your favorite people together, here are a few fun and fabulous ideas to make your Galentine’s Day celebration unforgettable:
- 🍷 Wine Tasting Party
What better way to celebrate than with a fabulous wine-tasting experience? Whether you host at home or visit a local winery, sampling a variety of wines with perfectly paired bites is a great way to indulge in a little luxury. Bonus points for creating your own custom Galentine’s-themed charcuterie board! - 🥂 Brunch with a Mimosa Bar
A brunch gathering with your besties is the ultimate way to kick off a day of celebration! Set up a DIY mimosa or mocktail bar with different juices, fresh fruit garnishes, and bubbly to create a colorful and festive drink station. Pair it with heart-shaped waffles, eggs benedict, and some sweet treats for a meal that’s as fun as it is delicious. - 🍫 Fondue & Chocolate Night
If you love all things chocolate, consider hosting a fondue night! Melt dark, milk, and white chocolate for dipping strawberries, marshmallows, pretzels, and more. For a savory twist, go with cheese fondue and serve it with bread, veggies, and charcuterie. It’s interactive, indulgent, and the perfect way to bond over great food. - ☕ Fancy High Tea
Channel your inner royalty with an elegant afternoon tea party! Set the table with vintage teacups, tiered trays filled with finger sandwiches and pastries, and a selection of flavored teas (or maybe some bubbly). Add a fun dress code for extra flair—think floral dresses, pearls, and fascinators!
The Bottom Line: Friendship is Worth Celebrating
At the end of the day, Galentine’s Day is all about love, appreciation, and quality time with the people who mean the most to you. Life is too short not to celebrate the friendships that lift us up and make every day brighter. So, whether you’re toasting with wine, sharing a laugh over brunch, or indulging in sweet treats, take the time to spread the love and cherish the friendships that make life beautiful.
How are you celebrating Galentine’s Day this year? Let us know in the comments! 💕

Elevate Your Home Wine Tasting: Tips for a Memorable Experience with Willowcroft Wines
Elevate your home wine-tasting experience by incorporating selections from Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, Loudoun County's original winery. Here's how to create an engaging and educational tasting event:
- 1. Choose a Theme
Selecting a theme gives structure to your tasting. Consider:
- 🎨 Varietal Exploration: Compare wines made from the same grape grown in different regions.
- 🌎 Regional Focus: Showcase wines from a specific country or area.
- 🕰️ Aging Process: Taste the difference between young and aged wines.
- 2. Curate Your Wine Selection
Select a mix of white, red, and perhaps a sparkling or dessert wine. For example:
- 🍇 A crisp Seyval
- 🍷 A smooth Chambourcin
- 🌟 A refreshing sparkling wine
- 3. Prepare the Tasting Environment
- 🥂 Glassware: Use clear wine glasses, ideally one for each wine.
- 🍞 Palate Cleansers: Offer plain crackers or unsalted bread to reset between sips.
- ✨ Ambiance: Set the mood with soft lighting, candles, and a clean table or counter for serving.
- 4. Pair with Complementary Foods
Enhance the tasting with simple, versatile pairings:
- 🧀 Seyval: Goat cheese or feta
- 🧀 Chambourcin: Gruyere or mushroom-based dishes
- 🧀 Cabernet Sauvignon: Aged cheddar or blue cheese
- 🍫 Dessert Wine: Dark chocolate or berry desserts
- 5. Make It Interactive
- ✍️ Tasting Notes: Provide small cards or notebooks for guests to jot down their impressions.
- 🕶️ Blind Tastings: Cover labels and let guests guess the wine’s varietal or origin.
- 🎉 Friendly Competition: Reward the best guesser with a bottle of wine!
- 6. Share the Experience
- Take photos of your setup and pairings, and tag your favorite local winery (like Willowcroft Farm Vineyards!) to spread the word about supporting local producers.
By creating a thoughtful and fun environment, you can transform your home wine-tasting into an experience that’s both enjoyable and educational. Cheers to making memories, one glass at a time!

The Terroir Connection: How Soil Shapes the Flavor and Quality of Wine
The soil in which grapevines grow plays a crucial role in winemaking, influencing everything from water management to the flavors in the final product. Understanding soil characteristics can help vintners decide to cultivate healthy vines and produce quality wines.
Particle Size, Drainage, and Water Retention
Soil texture—defined by the proportion of sand, silt, and clay—affects water drainage and retention, which are vital for vine health. Sandy soils have larger particles and larger pore spaces, allowing for quick drainage but limited water retention. Conversely, clay soils consist of smaller particles and smaller pore spaces, leading to slower drainage and higher water retention. Loam soils, which are a balanced mix of sand, silt, and clay, offer moderate drainage and water-holding capacity, often considered ideal for viticulture. The right balance ensures that vine roots receive adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged, promoting deep root growth and resilience.
Soil Color, Sun Reflection, and Heat Absorption
The color of soil can influence its temperature by affecting how it absorbs and reflects sunlight. Darker soils tend to absorb more heat, which can be beneficial in cooler climates by promoting earlier ripening of grapes. Lighter-colored soils, such as those rich in limestone or chalk, reflect more sunlight, potentially keeping the soil cooler and delaying ripening. This reflection can also enhance light exposure to the grape clusters, aiding in photosynthesis. Managing soil temperature through color and composition helps vintners control the ripening process and grape development.
Soil Composition and Flavor Influence
Beyond texture and color, the mineral composition of soil can subtly influence the flavor profile of wines. For instance, calcareous soils, which are rich in calcium carbonate, are known to retain water effectively and can impart a certain acidity to the grapes, contributing to a wine's freshness. Clay soils, with their excellent water retention, can produce bold and structured wines, making them suitable for varieties like Merlot and Sangiovese. While the direct impact of soil minerals on wine flavor is complex and not fully understood, the interplay between soil composition, water availability, and vine health undeniably shapes the characteristics of the wine.
In summary, a deep understanding of soil properties—including particle size, color, and composition—enables winemakers to optimize vine health and influence the sensory qualities of their wines.

From Snow to Bud Break: The Promise of a New Season in Northern Virginia Vineyards
Northern Virginia has been blanketed by more snow and colder temperatures than usual as we find ourselves in the heart of winter. Notably, early January brought significant snowfall, with areas like Leesburg receiving more than 7 inches. While the landscape rests under this frosty veil, it's heartening to remember that the vineyards will begin their annual renewal in just about six weeks.
Grapevines are dormant, appearing as mere woody twigs amidst the snow. This essential period allows vines to conserve energy and prepare for the upcoming growth cycle. As temperatures start to rise and the ground begins to thaw, the first signs of life emerge with bud break. Tiny buds swell and burst open, revealing new shoots and leaves, marking the vine's reawakening.
Following bud break, the vines enter a phase of rapid growth. Shoots lengthen, and small, self-pollinating flowers appear. These blossoms, once pollinated, develop into tiny green berries. As summer progresses, these berries undergo veraison, changing color and beginning to ripen. The grapes reach their peak ripeness by late summer to early fall, ready for harvest.
The current winter conditions, though harsh, play a crucial role in this cycle. The cold ensures that vines remain dormant, protecting them and allowing for a more synchronized and healthy bud break come spring. So, as we navigate these chilly days, take comfort in knowing that the vineyards are merely resting, gathering strength for a vibrant season ahead. In just a few weeks, we'll witness the first signs of this transformation, a testament to nature's resilience and the promise of warmer days.

Starting Your Wine Collection: A Guide to Building a Personal Cellar
Starting a wine collection can be rewarding, offering financial benefits, enhanced appreciation of wine, and enriched social experiences. By purchasing wines with a cellar mindset, you diversify your selection, exploring unfamiliar varieties alongside your favorites. This approach deepens your understanding of the wine world's diversity and can lead to discovering new preferences. Additionally, a well-curated collection may appreciate in value over time, providing potential financial returns.
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the quality and longevity of your wines. Options include wine racks, wine fridges, and dedicated wine cellars. Wine racks are suitable for short-term storage in cool, dark spaces but lack temperature and humidity control. Wine fridges offer precise temperature settings and often include UV protection and vibration control, making them ideal for medium-term storage. A wine cellar with consistent temperature and humidity control is optimal for long-term aging. The choice among these depends on your collection size, budget, and available space.
When selecting wines to collect, consider both renowned regions and emerging ones. Iconic wines from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Barolo, and Napa Valley are esteemed but can be expensive. Alternatively, affordable options from regions like Willamette Valley, Loire Valley, Finger Lakes, and, of course, Virginia offer excellent aging potential and unique flavors. Exploring these areas allows you to build a diverse collection without exceeding your budget.
Keeping track of your collection is essential for organization and ensuring optimal consumption times. Digital tools like CellarTracker or VinoVoss provide user-friendly platforms to catalog your wines, track their aging progress, and record tasting notes. For a cost-effective solution, a simple Excel spreadsheet can effectively manage your inventory. Regular updates and meticulous record-keeping will help you decide when to enjoy each bottle.
Embarking on a wine collection journey enhances your enjoyment and understanding of wine. With thoughtful selection, proper storage, and diligent management, your collection will reflect your tastes and provide lasting satisfaction.
To conclude, here are some practical tips to enhance your wine collection journey:
- Define Your Purpose and Budget: Clarify whether you're collecting for personal enjoyment, investment, or social occasions. Establish a budget that aligns with your goals to guide your purchasing decisions.
- Educate Yourself: Expand your wine knowledge by attending tastings, reading reputable sources, and engaging with wine communities. This will inform your selections and deepen your appreciation.
- Start Small and Diversify: Begin with a modest collection, focusing on wines you enjoy. Gradually introduce varieties from different regions and grape types to broaden your palate.
- Invest in Proper Storage: Ensure your wines are stored in optimal conditions—cool, humid, and away from light and vibrations—to preserve their quality over time.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain an inventory of your collection, noting purchase dates, prices, and tasting notes. This practice aids in tracking the aging process and planning future acquisitions.
- Be Patient and Enjoy the Journey: Wine collecting is a long-term endeavor. Allow wines to mature, and savor the experience of discovering and sharing new favorites.

Grapes Are the GOAT for Winemaking: Here’s Why!
When crafting the perfect wine, no fruit does it better than grapes. They are the true GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in winemaking. While it’s possible to make wine from fruits like blueberries, apples, peaches, or cherries, grapes—especially Vitis vinifera—are uniquely equipped by nature to create balanced, complex, and truly magical wines. Here’s why grapes outshine the rest: winemakers have relied on them for thousands of years.
The Perfect Balance: Sugar, Acidity, and Tannins
Grapes are the ultimate multitaskers when it comes to winemaking because they naturally contain the perfect trifecta:
- Sugar: Fully ripe vinifera grapes boast just the right amount of sugar (20-30%) for yeast to convert into alcohol during fermentation. Other fruits often require additional sugar (a process called chaptalization) to achieve the same results.
- Acidity: Grapes have just enough acidity to balance out their sweetness, giving wines a structured and refreshing flavor. Acidity also acts as a natural preservative, ensuring the wine ages gracefully.
- Tannins: Found in grape skins and seeds, tannins provide the backbone of wine’s structure and contribute to its ability to age. Most other fruits, like apples or blueberries, lack significant tannin levels, resulting in less complex wines.
With grapes, winemakers can create wines that range from sweet and aromatic to dry and bold—all without having to artificially adjust sugar, acid, or tannins.
Nature Knows Best: Grapes Are Self-Sufficient
Grapes are a winemaker’s dream because they come ready to ferment. The natural yeast found on grape skins initiates the fermentation process, while the fruit provides the nutrients yeast needs to thrive.
In ancient times, winemakers needed little more than ripe grapes and a vessel to let nature work its magic. Crush the grapes, let the yeast ferment the sugars, and voilà—wine. All humans had to do was keep it from turning into vinegar. Few other fruits offer this effortless balance, so grapes have remained the gold standard for winemaking throughout history.
Complexity and Versatility in Every Sip
Grapes can remarkably reflect the terroir (the environment in which they’re grown), creating a diverse range of flavors and styles. Grapes can do everything from bold, tannic reds to crisp, aromatic whites and sparkling wines.
While fruit wines made from apples, blueberries, or peaches can be delicious, they often lean toward sweetness and lack the complexity of grape-based wines. Grapes’ unique balance of sugar, acidity, and tannins allows for layers of flavor and aromas that evolve, giving each bottle its own story.
A History Rooted in the Vine
Vinifera grapes have been the foundation of winemaking for over 8,000 years, originating in the regions around modern-day Georgia and Armenia. Early winemakers quickly realized that grapes were the perfect fruit for creating wine with minimal intervention.
As winemaking techniques evolved, grapes remained central to this ancient art. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the valleys of Napa, grapes have become synonymous with wine, thanks to their unparalleled ability to produce balanced, complex, and age-worthy vintages.
Why Other Fruits Fall Short
While you can make wine from fruits like apples, blueberries, or cherries, these fruits often require extra help to achieve balance:
- Sugar Boosts: Many fruits don’t contain enough sugar for fermentation, requiring added sugar.
- Acidity Adjustments: Most fruits lack the natural acidity needed for a well-structured wine.
- Tannin Additions: Fruit wines often taste flat or overly sweet without the tannins found in grape skins and seeds.
Even some native North American grapes, like Concord, lack the ideal balance of sugar, acid, and tannins, requiring winemakers to make adjustments to produce high-quality wine.
Preservation and Aging Potential
Grapes are uniquely suited for creating wines that improve over time. Their acidity and tannins act as natural preservatives, allowing wines to develop new flavors and aromas as they age. Most fruit wines, by contrast, are best enjoyed young, as they lack the structure to evolve significantly in the bottle.
The Bottom Line: Grapes Are the GOAT
Grapes are truly the GOAT for winemaking because they provide everything needed to create exceptional wines—sugar for fermentation, acidity for balance, tannins for structure, and the natural yeast and nutrients that make fermentation possible.
So, the next time you raise a glass, toast to the humble grape—the real MVP behind every great bottle of wine. Cheers to nature’s perfect fruit for winemaking!

Charcuterie & Wine: A Perfect Pairing for Any Occasion
Charcuterie and wine are the ultimate duo for entertaining or enjoying a cozy evening at home. The harmony between the flavors, textures, and aromas of these two indulgences creates a sensory experience that’s as delicious as it is memorable. But what makes charcuterie and wine such a perfect pair? It’s all about balance and enhancement.
Pairing Tips for the Perfect Match
- Salty and Savory: The saltiness of cheese, especially hard or aged varieties, enhances the fruit aromas of light-bodied or sparkling white wines. Try pairing a crisp Seyval Blanc or a sparkling Albarino with a sharp cheddar or Parmesan for a delightful contrast.
- Rich Meats & Nuts: Cured meats like prosciutto or salami, alongside roasted nuts, beautifully counterbalance the tannins in bold red wines. Willowcroft’s Petit Verdot, with its deep and complex profile, is an ideal match for these rich flavors.
- Bright, Acidic Wines: Creamy cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, benefit from the freshness of bright, acidic wines. An off-dry Riesling or our signature Muscat Ottonel can cut through the richness, creating a refreshing and smooth finish.
- Pâté Perfection: Coarse, rustic pâtés shine alongside earthy reds like Cabernet Franc, bringing out their earthy undertones. For a more delicate pâté, consider a silky Chardonnay Reserve to soften its intensity.
- Stay Local: A fantastic rule of thumb is to pair wines and cheeses from the same region. For instance, our Chambourcin pairs wonderfully with regional cheeses and meats, offering a taste of Virginia in every bite.
Building the Ultimate Charcuterie Board
Crafting a visually stunning and delicious charcuterie board is an art form. Here are some tips to elevate your spread:
- Variety is Key: Include different textures, milk types (cow, goat, sheep), and cured meat styles to cater to diverse palates.
- Play with Shapes & Colors: Get creative with how you slice and arrange items to make your board a feast for the eyes.
- Add Freshness: Fruits like figs, grapes, or apples and colorful veggies like roasted peppers or radishes add a vibrant touch.
- Ready-to-Eat: Choose foods that are easy to nibble on, like crackers, breadsticks, or nuts, ensuring guests can enjoy without extra prep.
Willowcroft Wines to Complement Your Board
- For Spicy and Smoky Flavors: Pair Manchego cheese, chorizo, and smoky roasted peppers with Muscat Ottonel or Riesling. Their fruity and off-dry notes balance out the bold, spicy flavors.
- For Hearty and Bold Pairings: Combine dark chocolate, Italian cured meats, and mixed nuts with our rich Petit Verdot. Its robust profile enhances the deep, savory elements of these foods.
At Willowcroft, we believe the best pairings come from experimenting with flavors and enjoying the journey. Stop by the tasting room to explore our wines and discover your favorite charcuterie combinations. Cheers to elevating your next wine and charcuterie experience!