Weekend Wine Events
Enjoy learning about the fundamentals of tasting wine; discover unexpected food and wine pairing ideas, and find new ways of entertaining with Merryvale wines.
Shawn Dougherty
Certified Wine Specialist, Sommelier
Food & Wine Educator
Shawn Dougherty is a Certified Wine Specialist and Sommelier. He began his studies of food and wine at the French Culinary Institute in New York City and is working toward his goal of becoming a Master of Wine. He has toured wine regions of the world and learned from many experts, viticulturists, and producers in France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Australia, Chile, Argentina, California, and Oregon. Shawn invites you to visit Merryvale and share his passion for food and wine.
The Sommelier Reserve Tasting
Experience a wine tasting like no other. Shawn Dougherty invites you to an exquisite private tasting of ultra premium wines including the world renowned Profile. Shawn has hand selected each wine and treats you to a private, intimate setting in either the historic Cask Room, the 22,000 gallon redwood Tank Room, The Barrel Room, or the Library (all subject to availability). Please allow one hour for this unique experience.
Available by appointment Friday through Tuesday. $65 per person; reservations are required. To sign up or find out more, call 707 968 3425 or email Shawn.
The Wine & Cheese Experience
Intimidated by the idea of pairing the right wine with the right cheese? Shawn Dougherty showcases local artisan and international cheeses and pairs them with a selection of Merryvale wines. Discover the differences with each pairing and understand why these cheeses are paired with specific varietals. Let Shawn set you on your own personal journey into the joys of cheese and wine. Features five hand selected cheeses, charcuterie, and five Merryvale wines.
Friday through Sunday, from 11:00am until 12:00pm. $45 per person; reservations are required. To sign up or find out more, call 707 968 3425 or click here to fill out our secure online form.
Barrel Tastings
Held quarterly in March, June, September and December (see Calendar of Events for actual dates), these events feature small samples of food pairings and live entertainment throughout the afternoon, in addition to Merryvale's award-winning wines 'thieved' from French oak barrels.
This bona fide wine country experience takes place from 1-4pm in either our working barrel cellar or our historic Cask Room. Winemakers Sean Foster and Graham Wehmeier select the wines focusing on those that are 'accessible' even in their youth. This event also features earlier vintages of the same wine, allowing guests to taste how wine evolves as it matures.
$25 per person (FREE for Profile Club members); no reservations required.
Please note: Private tours, tastings and seminars are available by appointment for groups of eight or more. Email tastingroom@merryvale.com or 707 968 3425.
