Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE
Join with acclaimed pastry Chef/Co-Owner Ilma Lopez of Chaval restaurant here in Portland, and Sommelier Erica Archer, for a scenic and delicious Brunch & Wine Sail featuring five wines and paired brunch courses. 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, historic forts, and magnificent fall foliage colors as the backdrop ... all while indulging in incredible wine and food pairings. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Lopez has made for you.

• Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious and fresh sweet brunch items from Chef Ilma Lopez

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
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.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE
Join with acclaimed pastry Chef/Co-Owner Ilma Lopez of Chaval restaurant here in Portland, and Sommelier Erica Archer, for a scenic and delicious Brunch & Wine Sail featuring five wines and paired brunch courses. 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, historic forts, and magnificent fall foliage colors as the backdrop ... all while indulging in incredible wine and food pairings. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Lopez has made for you.

• Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious and fresh sweet brunch items from Chef Ilma Lopez

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
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.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCEYou’ll be joining Sommelier Erica Archer of Wine Wise and Chef Paolo Laboa of Solo Italiano for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, The Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront. You’ll sail and sip five incredibly delicious Italian wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire ... each paired with delicious Italian courses prepared for you by Executive Chef Paolo Laboa, a native of Genoa, Italy. 

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will learn a lot about Italian food and local Maine produce by Paolo.

• Taste and learn about Italian wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Find out what makes each region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the major grape varieties and these up and coming contenders 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 delicious and fresh prepared food from Chef Paolo Laboa 

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
Paolo Laboa’s journey started in his mother's kitchen, where he learned the secrets of real Genovese cooking, the pinnacle of Northern Italian cuisine. Every ingredient chef Paolo touches is fresh from the farm and sea to his kitchen to your table. Some of his favorite farms are Stonecipher Farm, Dandelion Springs Farm, Valley Farm, Olivia’s Garden for greens, vegetables, basil and herbs, and Northspore for foraged mushrooms. Fresh fish is brought in each day through Upstream, Harbor Fish Market or Browne Trading Co. Also sourcing other proteins like wild rabbit from Sumner Valley Farm and lamb and pork from Two Cove Farm, while dairy comes from a variety these local farmers. “Cooking is what I love and I want each ingredient to sing. Simplicity is my goal. If there are five ingredients, I want you to taste all five of them.” Breads and pastas are all made in-house from scratch using traditional Genovese recipes. “It is very important–the food that you eat,” says Laboa.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

QUANTITY:

ADD TO CART (22 REMAINING)

Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE

Join with Sommelier Erica Archer and the incredible team at Sur Lie—an awesome tapas-style restaurant right here in Portland, Maine—for a gorgeous scenic wine and food sail. You’ll indulge in five incredibly delicious wines ... each paired with delicious food from Executive Chef Jef Wright who will use the bountiful harvest from local Maine farms available to us his time of year.

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Wright has made for you—all inspired by what local Maine farms are harvesting this week. It does not get any more fresh and local than this. In addition …

• Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties, regions, 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
Raised in central Florida, Jef Wright discovered his passion for the culinary world at a young age. As a child he was always very interested in cooking, an avid watcher of cooking shows instead of cartoons, he quickly became inspired by the talented chefs and sophisticated techniques he found there. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy, he continues to challenge himself and seek out new opportunities to learn and refine his craft. He has worked in a wide array of cuisines and restaurants both large and intimate. For many years he worked in Atlanta GA, with Richard Blais, former Top Chef winner, and focused on molecular gastronomy as a means to reimagine and refine traditional southern dishes. His passion for continued learning has taken him to Philadelphia and New York where he worked in both a 2 Michelin star restaurant and for a large and well known upscale restaurant group.

Jef moved to Maine 8 years ago with his wife and their first child so they could begin a new adventure, taking over her family’s garden seed company, Pinetree Garden Seeds, in New Gloucester. While he has enjoyed the experience of connecting with the food system as a supplier and working with local farmers and restaurants to offer fresh and flavorful produce, his first love has always been the kitchen. His style is best described as heavily influenced by traditional French and Spanish cuisine with a love for upscale Southern always focusing on refined techniques. He returned to the industry as the opening sous chef at The Garrison in Yarmouth, where he helped the restaurant attain a 4-½ star review from the Press Herald. Jef is thrilled to be stepping back into the role of Executive Chef and leading the kitchen at Sur Lie. He looks forward to sharing his excitement and passion for delicious, sophisticated cuisine with Portland. 

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE
Join with Sommelier Erica Archer and the incredible team at Sur Lie—an awesome tapas-style restaurant right here in Portland, Maine—for a gorgeous scenic wine and food sail. You’ll indulge in five incredibly delicious wines ... each paired with delicious food from Chef Jef Wright.

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Wright has made for you.

• Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious food from Chef Jef Wright of Sur Lie

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties, regions, 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
Raised in central Florida, Jef Wright discovered his passion for the culinary world at a young age. As a child he was always very interested in cooking, an avid watcher of cooking shows instead of cartoons, he quickly became inspired by the talented chefs and sophisticated techniques he found there. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy, he continues to challenge himself and seek out new opportunities to learn and refine his craft. He has worked in a wide array of cuisines and restaurants both large and intimate. For many years he worked in Atlanta GA, with Richard Blais, former Top Chef winner, and focused on molecular gastronomy as a means to reimagine and refine traditional southern dishes. His passion for continued learning has taken him to Philadelphia and New York where he worked in both a 2 Michelin star restaurant and for a large and well known upscale restaurant group.

Jef moved to Maine 8 years ago with his wife and their first child so they could begin a new adventure, taking over her family’s garden seed company, Pinetree Garden Seeds, in New Gloucester. While he has enjoyed the experience of connecting with the food system as a supplier and working with local farmers and restaurants to offer fresh and flavorful produce, his first love has always been the kitchen. His style is best described as heavily influenced by traditional French and Spanish cuisine with a love for upscale Southern always focusing on refined techniques. He returned to the industry as the opening sous chef at The Garrison in Yarmouth, where he helped the restaurant attain a 4-½ star review from the Press Herald. Jef is thrilled to be stepping back into the role of Executive Chef and leading the kitchen at Sur Lie. He looks forward to sharing his excitement and passion for delicious, sophisticated cuisine with Portland. 

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

Must be 21 years of age or older.

For those of you that have sailed with us in the past, we hope you are well. We honestly can’t wait to see you and take you on a safe, ventilated, quality wine, and sailing experience that puts you safely 6-feet distanced from other passengers. We know it’s the highlight of your Summer and we plan on keeping it that way. For those that are new to us, we look forward to sharing this incredible experience with you.

It’s important to note that we are on a different boat and a different location, and a different schedule this year. The sailboat Frances has chosen not to operate this season and we are forever grateful to Portland Schooner Company for adopting us and giving us a Summer home with their largest Schooner, Timberwind, a two-masted schooner built in 1931 by Victor Cole at Union Wharf in Portland and measures in at 96' overall. Read below for direction to the Maine Wharf (not the Maine State Pier).

COVID-19 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS OF ALL PASSENGERS
We are closely adhering to Maine’s guidelines for social distancing, sanitizing, and face coverings. Be sure to bring your facemasks. You will be required to wear your facemask for waiting in line, boarding, disembarking, and anytime you get up from your seat to use the head (bathroom). A face covering is not required while sitting and enjoying the wine sail. Please keep 6-feet distanced from others standing in line to board and while disembarking. Once we are all boarded and seated you will be able to take your facemask off for the duration of the sail while you are in your assigned seat. We feel compelled to emphasize that this is a trying time for a lot of people. This may be some passengers' first “safe experience” outdoors. It is all of our responsibility to act with others' safety, comfort, and enjoyment in mind. We are all in this together. Let’s care for one another and have an incredible experience that will be the highlight of your summer, for sure.

CHANGES TO TICKET PURCHASES
It is imperative that you buy all of the tickets for your party in one purchase so that you may all be seated together. Or if purchased separately please do make sure to include whom you would like to be seated with, in the “Is there anything we need to know” comments section at checkout. We cannot move people around after boarding as we need to depart on-time. We do not have the staff to answer emails and phone calls and re-do seating charts over and over again if this imperative detail is missed.

JOIN US FOR AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE
Join with acclaimed pastry Chef/Co-Owner Ilma Lopez of Chaval restaurant here in Portland, and Sommelier Erica Archer, for a scenic and delicious Brunch & Wine Sail featuring five wines and paired brunch courses. 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 while indulging in incredible wine and food pairings. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how to evaluate, select and pair wines, and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Lopez has made for you.

• Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious and fresh sweet brunch items from Chef Ilma Lopez

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event, we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
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.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

WHERE DO WE MEET?
Timberwind is located on the Maine Warf on Portland’s historic waterfront, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Entrance to the Maine Wharf is located on Commercial Street, Portland, Maine, between Scales Restaurant (down the wharf a little bit at 68 Commercial Street) and RiRa Irish Pub (72 Commercial Street) You’ll go all the way to the end of the wharf, approximately 100 yards towards the waterfront, past Scales. You can’t miss Timberwind at the end of the dock. Please keep in mind that this is the Maine Warf, not the Maine State Pier where we have previously departed from. Please keep in mind to have your required facemask on and be 6-feet distanced from other parties while waiting in line. We’ll be on the boat setting-up and will come to get you when we’re ready to board you. You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your wine sail.

CANCELLATIONS/RESCHEDULES/NO SHOWS
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $20.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications, so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather-related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right?

Must be 21 years of age or older.

Join Sommelier Erica Archer and Chef Emil Rivera for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, The Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront. You’ll indulge in five incredibly delicious wines ... each paired with delicious food from acclaimed Chef Emil Rivera of Sur Lie here in Portland, Maine.

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how evaluate, select and pair wines and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Rivera has made for you.

Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious food from Chef Emil Rivera of Sur Lie

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
Chef Emil Rivera, of Sur Lie, calls himself a “Puerto Mainer,” referring to his childhood and his current home. He attended cooking school in Puerto Rico. He worked under Austrian and French chefs on the island, learning the ways of classic technique in formal, fine-dining atmospheres. A stint in Washington, D.C., with James Beard award winner and internationally recognized chef José Andrés. Chef Rivera recently cooked at the James Beard House himself (and we were one of the lucky few to attend). Rivera draws from his previous influences and experience, combining them with top-notch, fresh Maine ingredients.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

Where do we meet?
We depart from the Maine State Pier, located at at 56 Commercial Street (where Commercial Street meets Franklin Street). You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your event. Please refer to our FAQ page for answers to questions that you may be wondering about.

Cancellations/Reschedules/No Shows
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $10.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right

Must be 21 years of age or older. Join Sommelier Erica Archer with Chefs Damian Sansonetti and Kirby Scholl of acclaimed Portland, Maine restaurant Chaval, for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, The Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront as you explore five incredibly delicious wines from South Africa ... each paired with delicious food from these two extremely talented Chefs..

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how evaluate, select and pair wines and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Damian Sansonetti and Sous Chef Kirby Scholl have prepared for you.

The menu will be available the date of the event as these Chefs take inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chefs
Chef Damian Sansonetti, a Pittsburgh native, grew up exploring fresh, local ingredients, making pasta with his grandmothers, curing meats with his grandfather, and assisting his father in the family kitchen. A career in food was practically his birthright. 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.

Training rigorously under Chef Olivier Muller, Sansonetti became chef de banquet at Daniel and then sous chef under Jean Francois Bruel. Promoted to executive chef of Bar Boulud in 2008, Sansonetti was named a 2009 StarChefs.com Rising Star. Now ensconced in the burgeoning food scene of Portland, Maine, Sansonetti’s partnered with his wife, Pastry Chef Ilma Lopez (a 2014 StarChefs.com Rising Star Pastry Chef and nominated in 2018 for a James Beard Award as Outstanding Pastry Chef), to open their Italian fine dining restaurant Piccolo and in 2017 Chaval.

Chef Kirby Sholl grew up in Princeton, New Jersey and first moved to Maine to attend Colby College. During the summers, he worked at Islesford Dock Restaurant, where he would eventually serve as the Head Chef for 10 years. It was here that his love for Maine's local produce and fresh seasonal ingredients first began. His culinary career has taken him to California, where worked at Globe and Zuppa, and New York City, where he worked at Public. 

Working seasonally in Islesford allowed Kirby to travel throughout the rest of the year. In 2010, he traveled to South Africa for the first time, where they spent three months backpack and exploring all the food, wine, and culture the country had to offer. The first winter they spent in South Africa, they visited many wineries and he really began learning about the vineyards and history of wine. He had the opportunity to taste through dozens of the country’s best vineyards and recalls sometimes backpacking with at least 20 bottles of wine in his pack!

After three consecutive winters in South Africa, Kirby moved to Portland, Maine, where he began working at Miyake. During this time, he got to know Chefs Damian Sansonetti and Ilma Lopez as a regular at Piccolo and these frequent visits led him to working at Piccolo part-time. In 2017, Kirby helped open Chaval with Damian and Ilma and has been there every since.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

Where do we meet?
We depart from the Maine State Pier, located at at 56 Commercial Street (where Commercial Street meets Franklin Street). You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your event. Please refer to our FAQ page for answers to questions that you may be wondering about.

Cancellations/Reschedules/No Shows
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $10.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right

Must be 21 years of age or older.

Join Sommelier Erica Archer and Chef Ilma Lopez during Portland Wine Week for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, The Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront as you explore five incredibly delicious wines ... each paired with delicious brunch courses from acclaimed pastry Chef Ilma Lopez of Chaval & Piccolo restaurants here in Portland, Maine.

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how evaluate, select and pair wines and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will taste and learn a lot about the incredible food that Chef Lopez has made for you.

Taste and learn about delicious wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Enjoy delicious and fresh sweet brunch items from Chef Ilma Lopez

• Find out what makes each wine region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the emerging grape varieties 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

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
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.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions.

Where do we meet?
We depart from the Maine State Pier, located at at 56 Commercial Street (where Commercial Street meets Franklin Street). You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your event. Please refer to our FAQ page for answers to questions that you may be wondering about.

Cancellations/Reschedules/No Shows
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $10.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right

Must be 21 years of age or older.

Join Sommelier Erica Archer and Chef Paolo Laboa of Solo Italiano during Portland Wine Week You’ll be joining Sommelier Erica Archer of Wine Wise and for a gorgeous scenic wine sail on board the 74-foot sailboat, The Frances, built by her Captains and crew on Portland's waterfront. You’ll sail and sip five incredibly delicious Italian wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire ... each paired with tastes of Italy prepared for you by Executive Chef Paolo Laboa, a native of Genoa, Italy. 

You're in for an incredible wine education and food experience as you sail through Maine’s beautiful Casco Bay with scenic views of Maine lighthouses, islands, and waterways .. all while indulging in a wine class. You'll walk away with knowing a lot about wine, how regional influences impact wine styles and quality, gain confidence knowing how evaluate, select and pair wines and describe what you smell and taste. And no doubt you will learn a lot about Italian food and local Maine produce from Paolo.

• Taste and learn about Italian wines that you'll love to have in your repertoire

• Find out what makes each region unique in their styles of wine they produce

• Discuss the major grape varieties and these up and coming contenders 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 delicious and fresh prepared food from Chef Paolo Laboa 

The menu will be available close to the date of the event as Chef takes his inspiration from only the freshest local ingredients. Due to the nature of this event we regret that we cannot accommodate food substitutions. 

Your Chef
Paolo Laboa’s journey started in his mother's kitchen, where he learned the secrets of real Genovese cooking, the pinnacle of Northern Italian cuisine. Every ingredient chef Paolo touches is fresh from the farm and sea to his kitchen to your table. Some of his favorite farms are Stonecipher Farm, Dandelion Springs Farm, Valley Farm, Olivia’s Garden for greens, vegetables, basil and herbs, and Northspore for foraged mushrooms. Fresh fish is brought in each day through Upstream, Harbor Fish Market or Browne Trading Co. Also sourcing other proteins like wild rabbit from Sumner Valley Farm and lamb and pork from Two Cove Farm, while dairy comes from a variety these local farmers. “Cooking is what I love and I want each ingredient to sing. Simplicity is my goal. If there are five ingredients, I want you to taste all five of them.” Breads and pastas are all made in-house from scratch using traditional Genovese recipes. “It is very important–the food that you eat,” says Laboa.

Your Sommelier
Archer is a true oenophile, having obtained high levels of certification in her field. In 2010, she was awarded the Wine Spirit and Education Trust Level Three Advanced Certification in Wines and Spirits (with merit), became a Sommelier in the American Court of Master Sommeliers, and received her Certified Wine Professional award from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California. Erica is the principal of Wine Wise, a wine education and events service and is skilled at creating truly creative and memorable wine experiences that take guests beyond a typical tasting with her intimate understanding of what makes each wine unique. And she’ll do it with her trademark sense of humor.

Where do we meet?
We depart from the Maine State Pier, located at at 56 Commercial Street (where Commercial Street meets Franklin Street). You’ll receive a more detailed email a few days before your event. Please refer to our FAQ page for answers to questions that you may be wondering about.

Cancellations/Reschedules/No Shows
Because of our size, cancellations affect us significantly. If we are able to re-sell your tickets we can refund your ticket price minus the $10.00 credit card transactions we have to pay OR reschedule you to a different date that has availability (there is no credit card transaction fee in this case). You are always welcome to send a friend or family member in your place or sell your own tickets. Just make sure we have the ticket holder's email address so we can send them the event notifications so they are aware of where to find us and any day-of weather related notifications. There are no refunds or reschedules for no shows or if we are not able to resell your tickets. Makes sense, right