Conference Agenda
Please note that room locations are not final and the agenda is subject to change.
Page Last Updated: 8/4/2025
There are 49 sessions to choose from including some great new presenters!
Click any of the following buttons to jump to a specific session to read the session descriptions.
Wednesday, November 5th
9:00 am – 5:00 pm Pre-Conference Winery Tour
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Registration Desk Open – Grand 5 & 6 Foyer
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Thursday, November 6th
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Registration Desk Open – Grand 5 & 6 Foyer
7:00 am – 5:00 pm Wine Judge Certification – Year 1 – Washingtonian 1
7:00 am – 5:00 pm Wine Judge Certification – Year 2 – Washingtonian 2
7:00 am – 5:00 pm Wine Judge Certification – Year 3 – Washingtonian 3
8:00 am – 5:00 pm WineSmarts Level 1 – Grand Dominion 1
8:00 am – 5:00 pm WineSmarts Level 2 – Grand Dominion 2
9:00 am – 5:00 pm Pre-Conference Winery Tour
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm RA/VLT/Chapter Chair Meeting (optional if you want to attend a tour or education opportunities!) – Grand Dominion 4,6
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm “First-Timers” Orientation – Lincoln Forum
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm The Grapevine – Grand Dominion 3,5
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Presidential Reception – West Lobby/Sunset Terrace
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm Virginia Welcome Reception – Lower Rotunda
10:00 pm – 12:00 am Hospitality Suite Open – Westfield’s Lounge
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Friday, November 7th
7:00 am – 6:00 pm Registration Desk Open (closed during meals) – Grand 5 & 6 Foyer
7:30 am – 8:45 am Sparkling Wine Breakfast – Fairfax
8:45 am – 6:00 pm Exhibits Open – Upper Rotunda
8:45 am – 6:00 pm AWSEF Silent Auction Open– Promenade
8:30 am – 12:00 pm Wine Judge Certification Program Exam- Washington 3
9:00 am – 10:15 am Sessions A
Session A
Session A1
Title: Australian Regional Spotlight—McLaren Vale
Presenter: Mark Davidson, Head of Education Development—Americas, Wine Australia
Description: Wherever you stand in the picturesque region of McLaren Vale you can see, smell or feel the ocean. The Mediterranean sensibility is an important element in understanding the DNA of this stunning region. With a history of production dating back to the 1830s it would be easy to presume that the wines are classic and traditional. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Classic, old-vine wines sit side by side with new varieties and innovated wine styles. Mark Davidson will lead a fun, informative session that shines a spotlight on one of Australia’s truly exciting regions.
Session A2
Title: Passport to the World of Wine
Presenter: Robert Cavanaugh, CEO, Adventure Wine
Description: In this opening tasting session, expand and sharpen your tasting skills with an evaluation of diverse wine styles from around the world. Fine-tune your sensory abilities and gain even more confidence in describing and understanding wines in this fun, highly interactive session. From first-time attendee to expert educator, there’s something for everyone in this tutorial as we explore wine styles, both traditional and not as mainstream.
Session A3
Title: POURsonality Traits: How Does Your Wine Really Feel?
Presenter: Renee Ventrice, Owner, Wineauxclock Culinary Experiences
Description: Forget sublime, transcendent or quaffable. Which wines are paranoid, bossy or empathetic? This interactive session is as zippy and fun as Txakoli and light-hearted as Beaujolais as we pour fun feelings into every sip. You’ll never be at a loss for words again when describing wine beyond the glass!
One participant at this session who correctly matches the most wines with their POURsonality will receive a gift with a minimum value of $100!
Session A4
Title: The Terroir Expressive Riesling Grape: A Deep Dive
Presenter: Annette Schiller, Owner, ombiasy Wine Tours
Description: Germany is a unique wine-producing country situated in the northern most region where it is possible to grow quality wine. “Riesling,” Germany’s native and most-famous grape varietal is adapted perfectly to this cool climate. We will explore 6 Rieslings from 6 different regions ranging from 51° of latitude to 48.5° of latitude and will learn about the very different taste profiles that develop from the different climates and terroir.
Session A5
Title: Sipping Secrets: A Journey through Wine’s Hidden Treasures
Presenter: Sharyn Kervyn, Donna Albano, Brandon Seager, & Susan Lynham, AWS WineSmarts Instructors
Fee: $20 extra fee
Description: Explore the inner world of wine with us, while we dive deep into the depths of these magnificent regions, exposing their hidden treasures. Dare to discover and open your minds and palates to these gems, finding your new favorite wine along the way!
Session A6
Title: Virginia Ciders
Presenter: Megan Hereford, Co-founder, The Daring Wine & Cider Company
Description: Within the wine-and-spirits industry, Virginia is best known for being a rising-star producer of quality wine. However, Virginia is also home to a thriving and growing cider industry. Join award-winning cidermaker and consultant, Jocelyn Kuzelka, as she discusses the cider-making process and her passion to pursue and promote improvements in cider quality through practical experimentation in the orchards and in the cidery. Her vision and single-minded pursuit of excellence was confirmed with a recent win by her “Crab Apple Blend” cider, which took the overall “Best Cider” honor at the most recent Virginia “Governor’s Cup” wine competition.
Session A7
Title: A Vertical of Virginia Viogniers
Presenter: Michael Fritze, President/Winemaker, Carriage House Wineworks & Bill Ellis, RPh, MS, WSET 2, Principal, Cresita LLC
Description: Join Dr. Mike Fritze, owner and winemaker of Carriage House Wineworks, to venture into the depths and textures of Virginia Viognier. Mike opened Carriage House Wineworks in 2020 and has made award-winning wines right from the start. Virginia has a rich and unique history with Viognier and produces some of the finest in the country. In this session, you will explore a vertical tasting of Viognier to appreciate the complexity and ageability of these delicate wines. This session will compare stainless steel Virginia Viogniers with a top French Condrieu.
11:00 am – 12:15 pm Sessions B
Session B
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Session B1
Title: Wine with Stories from the Trade
Presenter: Joel Peterson, Winemaker, Once and Future Wine
Description: Joel Peterson, a raconteur, 50-year veteran of the wine trade, and the “Godfather of Zinfandel,” tells signature stories about his adventures in a wine-inspired life. Each story will be accompanied by a wine associated with that story; growing up with wine-and-food-obsessed parents, finding a wine mentor, working with historic vineyards and people, salvation from disaster by the wine community, corporate acquisition excitement, starting over to do it all again . . . and more!
Session B2
Title: “Franken My Dear, I Don’t Give a Dam!”
Presenter: Lorraine Hems, Senior Lecturer, Rochester Institute of Technology
Description: Join wine judge and educator Lorraine Hems as she guides you through the dams and locks of the Main River, to virtually visit the steep vineyards and wineries in the lesser-known wine region of Franken, Germany. This area, producing wines since the 1200s, is proactively adapting to climate change, resulting in a wide variety of “traditional” and “adaptive” grapes. Having spent two months in Franken in 2024-2025, Lorraine has much to share about the beauty of the region and the innovative resilience of the winemakers there. She will pour award-winning wines from the traditional bocksbeutels, containing grapes you may have never heard of before (and there won’t be a Riesling among them).
Session B3
Title: Wine Amid War: The Wines of the Ukraine
Presenter: Heidi Mulholland, Wine Educator, Wines of the Times Consulting
Description: Ukraine’s vineyards have not been abandoned to the inevitabilities of war, and Ukraine’s winemakers are doing everything they can to put Ukraine wine on the map with war vintages of quality and style. Featuring wines from across Ukraine with unique stories to tell, this presentation and tasting highlights the unique history of Ukrainian wine, the people behind the grapes, and their daily courage to harvest and create the next “war” vintage. Presenter Heidi Mulholland lived in Ukraine in 2017 and 2018 and supports the U.S. importer and their producers in an effort to educate and bring Ukrainian wine to every table in the United States.
Session B4
Title: Red Revolution in Virginia Wine
Presenter: Richard Leahy, Author, Beyond Jefferson’s Vines: the Evolution of Quality Wine in Virginia
Description: A new trend for Virginia wineries is to site their vineyard and tasting room at high elevations near the Blue Ridge Mountains. How does elevation impact grape and wine chemistry, wine style and quality? Join Virginia wine author Richard Leahy for a tasting of wines from several high-elevation vineyards along the Blue Ridge Mountains, with a view to how the combination of elevation, soils and atmosphere influence the development of the grapes and the wines made from them.
Session B5
Title: 40 Years of Dr. Frank’s Sparkling Wines
Presenter: Jason Ferris, Resident Sommelier, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Description: While the Finger Lakes of New York has an over 150 year history of producing Sparkling Wines, it wasn’t until the release of the 1985 Chateau Frank Brut that the region produced a Sparkling Wine both in the traditional “Methode Champenoise”, and from the traditional vinifera varietals of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. In 2025, Dr Frank’s celebrates their 40th Vintage in this continued renaissance of Finger Lakes Sparkling and Dr Frank’s Resident Sommelier Jason Ferris will join us to bring a fresh pop to FLX Sparkling Wine as he shares all about the terroir, climate, technology that has elevated these wines to new heights.
Session B6
Title: WJCP Continuing Education—Hybrids
Presenter: Kevin Ostrowski, Wine Judge Certification Program
Description: They’ve been around since the earlier parts of the 20th Century as one possible solution to phylloxera and for environmental tolerance to challenges like colder temperatures, high humidity, and shorter growing seasons. Today, they are being viewed, used, and accepted as a serious strategy for our changing climate reality. Acknowledging that our familiarity and experience with hybrid grapes may be limited when they are found in a wine competition, this session is meant to provide judges some background on hybrid grapes, including their development, features, and wine styles. Included will be a selected tasting of several hybrid grape wines or blends. Our goal is to enhance our judges’ awareness of these grape varieties and wine styles for the increasing need and enjoyment of these special wines.
Session B7
Title: Umpqua vs. the World—Comparing Old and New Worlds
Presenter: Stephen Reustle, Owner/Winemaker, Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards
Fee: $35 extra fee
Description: Oregon’s Umpqua Valley… better wines than their European counterparts?
Every wine lover knows about the Willamette Valley and the great Pinot Noir made there. But, how much do you know about the Umpqua Valley, just south of Willamette, where the wines are much more diverse and can go toe-to-toe with their Old-World European counterparts? Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards owner/winemaker and wine judge, Stephen Reustle, will present wines from the Umpqua Valley’s AVA and compare them “blind” with their European counterparts. Stephen will highlight some of the differences between these Old-World and New-World wines, focusing on four regions and varietals: Austria (Grüner Veltliner), Burgundy (Pinot Noir), Northern Rhone (Syrah), and Spain (Tempranillo). Join Stephen to learn about this unique Oregon AVA and test your skills to see if you can tell which is which and pick a favorite.
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm Luncheon & Business Meeting – Fairfax
2:15 pm – 3:30 pm Sessions C
Session C
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Session C1
Title: W5: The Wonderful World of Wines from Walla Walla
Presenter: Graydon Vandament, Chair, AWS Governance Committee
Description: Walla Walla . . . Just saying the name makes you laugh. However, don’t be fooled. This sleepy little college town in the semi-arid, southeast corner of the state is the birthplace of the modern wine industry in Washington, which is now the second-largest wine producer in the U.S. The unique, terroir and climate allows the region to make an amazingly broad range of outstanding, award-winning red and white wines that rival Bordeaux, the Rhone and California, while offering much greater value. If you enjoyed Graydon’s presentation last year on Texas wine, join this self-proclaimed OCD wine nerd as he takes you to the Pacific Northwest to explore and taste the “Wonderful World of Wines from Walla Walla.”
Session C2
Title: Georgia: The Cradle of Wine
Presenter: Annette Schiller, Owner, ombiasy Wine Tours
Description: Looking back on 8,000 vintages? Yes, the country of Georgia has an uninterrupted tradition of viticulture and winemaking that spans 8,000 years. Until recently, Georgian wine was considered by many outsiders as being “too sweet and too high in alcohol.” That was partially true, because that was the type of wine that the giant state producers made for export to Russia during the days of the Soviet Union. However, even in the days when the country lived behind the Iron Curtain, traditional Georgian wines were quietly produced by winemakers that were uncompromisingly committed to quality. Today, vintners around the globe are rediscovering the originality of the Georgian way of winemaking. We will explore and taste a wide range of Georgian red and white wines, made in both the “traditional qvevri” and the “modern European” methods. Joining Annette for this presentation will be Special Guest Patrick Honnef, the General Manager and Winemaker of Chateau Mukhrani, one of the top wineries in Georgia.
Session C3
Title: The “Legends” of Virginia Winemaking
Presenter: Chris Pearmund, Founder & Managing Partner, Pearmund Cellars, Jim Law, Founder & Owner, Linden Vineyards, Luca Paschina, Winemaker, Barboursville Vineyards
Description: Winemaking in Virginia started over 400 years ago, and today the state is in the top 10 for the amount of wine produced, number of wineries and any number of other wine industry benchmarks. However, the first 200 years of that history was marked by dismal failures, and even when the industry was starting to get off the ground, the Civil War, Prohibition, and the Great Depression killed it again. It truly wasn’t until the end of the 20th century that a small cadre of winemaking entrepreneurs found success and kick-started the powerhouse Virginia wine industry into what it is today. Join Chris Pearmund, of Pearmund Cellars (est. 1996), as he leads a panel discussion and tasting with some of the other groundbreaking pioneers of modern Virginia winemaking history, including Luca Paschina, the winemaker at Barboursville Vineyards (est. 1976), and Jim Law, the founder and owner of Linden Vineyards (est. 1983). Together, they will share their wines and their stories of enduring perseverance to create a thriving Virginia wine industry.
Session C4
Title: Unusually Perfect Pairings—Harmony Beyond What Grows Together, Goes Together
Presenter: Renee Ventrice, Owner, Wineauxclock Culinary Experiences
Description: Wine and food pairings can be endless, especially when you go beyond the borders of the wine’s country of origin, and challenge convention. What grows together certainly goes together, but don’t forget- opposites attract! We’ll explore these surprising opposites, share why they work, and expand palates in the most delightfully unexpected ways. I curate culinary events that introduce a twist to traditional wine dinners. Guests never know quite what expect- they leave with a new appreciation for wines they thought just “weren’t for them”, when they find that were simply missing an edible element to excite their taste buds. They try dishes from countries that they’d never experienced, much less considered pairing with their favorite varietals. They discover varietals they’d never heard of that are the ideal mate for their favorite foods. Renee delivers these experiences with a lighthearted whimsy that’s as fresh on the palate as a Sancerre by the resort pool, and as thoughtful as a 1990 Brunello found resting behind great granddad’s smoking chair.
Session C5
Title: Barolos: A Vertical Spanning 22 Years
Presenter: Dr. Joseph Fiola, Specialist in Viticulture, University of Maryland & Dr. Gary Pavlis, Agricultural Agent, Rutgers University
Fee: $35 extra fee
Description: Join long-time AWS presenters Drs. Pavlis & Fiola as they explore a vertical of Barolo wines from the Barolo del Commune di Barolo. Barolo, made from the Nebbiolo grape, is produced in the Piedmont region of northern Italy and is often described as one of Italy’s greatest wines. During the presentation, attendees will taste Barolos from the 1999, 2004, 2007, and 2011 vintages. The capstone to this presentation and tasting will then be the # 9 wine from Wine Spectator’s 2024 Top 100 list, a 2020 Barolo Albe, which received 94 points.
Session C6
Title: Exploring Tuscany with Tenuta Torciano
Presenter: Pierluigi Giachi, Winemaker, Tenuta Torciano
Description: Tenuta Torciano has been making majestic wines in the heart of Tuscany for over 300 years, spanning 13 generations of the Giachi family. Headquartered in San Gimignano, 35 minutes from Florence in the middle of the Chianti region, Tenuta Torciano crafts a wide variety of all the red wines that Tuscany is famous for, plus some whites, rosés, and sparklers. Tenuta Torciano has a long-standing commitment to wine education and is a frequent presenter for local AWS chapters. Whether you have never experienced the excellent wines of Tenuta Torciano before, or you simply want to taste and enjoy them again, this is a session not to be missed.
Session C7
Title: Rediscovering and Reimagining an Ancient Beverage: Mead
Presenter: Glenn Lavender, Owner/Alchemist, Silver Hand Meadery
Description: Mead, often called honey wine, is an alcoholic beverage made from honey, water and yeast. Mead is likely the most ancient of alcoholic beverages with its consumption likely arising among Neolithic humans. Documented production and consumption of fermented honey predates beer and wine by millennia, with evidence found as early as 7000 BCE in northern China, 1700BCE in Vedic and Hindu peoples, and followed closely in African, Eastern European, and Mediterranean cultures. Historically, mead was often consumed during religious ceremonies, in celebration of momentous occasions and for medicinal purposes. Mead was often reserved for clergy and nobility, but the modern versions of mead being produced are for everyone. More recent interest in honey production and mead making has grown alongside renewed interest in beekeeping, fostered by the plight of honeybees as related to their importance as crop pollinators. The popular resurgence of mead, particularly in the United States, has sparked meaderies in many states. It is the latest trend in the ever-changing craft beverage landscape as consumers seek new and creative alcoholic beverages. The flavors of modern meads may come from different honey varietals, the yeast strain used and fermentation conditions. Additional flavorings may also be provided by infusing fruits, herbs, and spices or processes like barrel aging. The resulting mead may be sweet or dry, still or sparkling, and full of floral, herbal, earthy, woody, and spicy flavors—a sampling of which will be shared by attendees at the end of the program.
4:15 pm – 5:30 pm Session D
Session D
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Session D1
Title: The Birth of Bubbles
Presenter: Alan Tardi, Director, New York Wine Studio
Description: Sparkling wines have become a significant category in just about every wine-producing area of the world. Consumers have warmly embraced them and drink them often, and not just for holidays and celebrations. But where and when did fizzy wines originate? And how have they evolved over time? In this session we will explore three original archetypal bubbly wines—Lambrusco, Prosecco, and Champagne—each of which were born spontaneously, became a solid tradition in their own specific area, and became highly appreciated and often imitated in other places throughout the world. Wines to be tasted will include the three most-distinctive grape varieties of Lambrusco—Salamino, Sorbara, and Grasparossa —still wines of Prosecco and Champagne, and Ancestral, Traditional, and Martinotti (tank) methods of production. This experience will give participants an entirely new perspective on bubbly wine and on wine in general.
Session D2
Title: Presidential State Dinners—Part II
Presenter: Tony Lawrence, Wine Chef, Bill Stefan, Author & Past AWS President
Fee: $70 extra fee
Description: As a sequel to their presentation from last year, celebrity wine chef Tony Lawrence and Past AWS President and author Bill Stefan return to offer Part Two of Presidential State Dinners. These events are the pinnacle of White House dinners prepared for visiting kings, queens, presidents, and other heads of state. The formal meals include phenomenal dishes paired with the best wines. The President and the First Lady are engaged with White House staff, the State Department, famous chefs and many others to prepare the ultimate dinner where even the smallest detail is critically important. For this year’s presentation, Tony will prepare a food course taken from four different State dinners ranging from George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to more recent dinners honoring the late Queen Elizabeth II. Tony and Bill, who has particular knowledge about presidential dinners, will discuss the foods, the original wines served, the pairings, and alternative wines that you can find today if you wanted to recreate one of these amazing events. In addition, Bill will share anecdotes and stories from the actual dinners.
As a bonus, at the end of the presentation, attendees will receive a copy of Bill’s second book on Presidential State Dinners, which is being published in mid-2025.
Session D3
Title: Wines of the Medoc
Presenter: Robert Cavanaugh, CEO, Adventure Wine
Description: The Bordeaux region of France has long been regarded as one of the best wine-producing areas anywhere in the world. Within Bordeaux, the Left Bank cluster of 8 appellations is the crown jewel, offering some of the finest red wines globally. From affordable to collectible, see how an ordinary cluster of grapes from this famous region evolves into superbly crafted masterpieces, capable of commanding stratospheric prices for a single bottle. Award-winning Wine Educator Robert Cavanaugh leads this journey. He is one of the most active wine educators anywhere, hosting events and tours in over a dozen countries around the world. His humorous, down-to-earth approach has been enjoyed at American Wine Society Conferences for the past five years, his classes have won the Cheers Beverage Excellence Award, and he’s been a Conseil International Vins de Bordeaux Educator since 2007.
Session D4
Title: Caymus: Wagner Family Innovations
Presenter: Roger Blottenberger, Caymus, Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager, Ben Jardot, Caymus, D.C. Metro Marketing Manager
Description: After 50 years, and having built one of the most iconic brands in Napa Valley, Chuck Wagner and his children, Charlie and Jenny, are not satisfied to rest on the laurels of Caymus Wines. This winemaking dynasty is constantly experimenting and innovating, looking for new sources of great fruit and ways to make exceptional wines. This session, led by Roger Blottenburger, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager for Caymus, and Ben Jardot, the D.C. Marketing Manager, focuses on two of Caymus’ biggest and boldest innovations, their huge investment in vineyards and a winery in the Suisun Valley, a hidden gem just east of Napa Valley, and their Red Schooner program. Under the Red Schooner brand, the Wagners make exceptional terrior-driven Malbec and Shiraz wines with grapes sourced thousands of miles away, from some of the best vineyards in Argentina and Australia.
Session D5
Title: The Surprising Wines of Arizona
Presenter: Douglas Levin, Journalist/Writer/Sommelier The Wine DOCG, Bill Nestel, AWS Strategic Planning Committee
Description: Arizona wine country is picturesque and unique. The AVAs are diverse, high-elevation terroir: one is river valley, a second is grassland prairie and the third is high desert. There is a long history of wine production that began with Spanish Missionaries in the late 1600s, ranging to the beginning of the modern era in the 1990s. With abundant sunshine and low rainfall, the terroir is similar in many ways to Rioja in Spain, or Southern Rhone/Italy without the Mediterranean influence. There has been over 670% growth in purchases since 2011 and the number of commercial wineries has grown to over 150 today. Winery tourism figures have shown over 68% of respondents had an experience that exceeded expectations, with more than half coming from out of state. There is also close proximity to popular attractions like: the Grand Canyon, Bisbee mine tours, Tombstone’s OK Corral and the historic western film sets at the Old Tucson theme park. Come sample and learn about these surprising premium quality wines, some of which are regularly served at the White House!
Session D6
Title: Mike Grgich: From Croatia to California and Back Again
Presenter: Heidi Mulholland, Wine Educator, Wines of the Times Consulting
Description: From a humble home in Desne, Croatia to the hills of Napa Valley and back again, Mike Grgich’s story is cemented into the annals of American wine history, helping put Napa Valley and American wine on the world map. Heidi Mulholland will guide you through the history of a man whose desire to survive in faith and freedom led him to flee Communist Croatia, then part of Yugoslavia, and make his way to Napa Valley where he succeeded beyond his wildest dreams. That success included crafting the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the Judgment of Paris. Yet, with all his accolades, he never forgot his beloved home country and after the collapse of Yugoslavia, he returned to Croatia and started a new winery, which is still operated by his daughter today. Join Heidi to learn about this amazing icon and taste the American and Croatian wines he created, connecting countries and their people.
Session D7
Title: The Longevity of Virginia Wines
Presenter: Jim Law, Founder & Owner, Linden Vineyards
Description: Since founding Linden Vineyards in the early 1980s, winemaking legend Jim Law has been a fierce proponent of creating high-quality “Wines of Place,” wines that express their vineyard site and emphasize mineral quality over fruit. These wines, created in the vineyard and with only minimal intervention and manipulation in the winemaking process, not only have exceptional quality, but like their famous “old-world” brethren, can continue to grow and mature in the bottle with a longevity that is rare in modern U.S. wines. Join Jim as he shares his wine and the stories of the successes and failures that allowed him to create award-winning wines which many aficionados are happy to “lay down” and then enjoy years later, when they know that they’ll be even better. Creating these exceptional wines didn’t come easily. There is a reason that Jim’s largest, oldest and most-prized vineyard is named “Hardscrabble.”
5:45 pm – 6:45 pm Amateur Wine Competition Awards – Lincoln Forum
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm Showcase of Wines – Fairfax
10:00 pm – 12:00 am Hospitality Suite Open – Westfield’s Lounge
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Saturday, November 8th
7:00 am – 4:00 pm Registration Desk Open – Van Buren
7:30 am – 8:45 am Breakfast & AWSEF Annual Meeting – Fairfax
8:45 am – 4:00 pm Exhibits Open – Upper Rotunda
9:00 am – 10:15 am Session E
Session E
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Session E1
Title: “Riesling Rocks” in the Finger Lakes!
Presenter: Bob Madill, Proprietor, EDU Wine Tours/RJM Consulting
Description: The Finger Lakes is recognized internationally as one of the top cool-climate regions for superlative, world-class Riesling! Vintage after vintage the FLX delivers vibrant, expressive, mineral-driven, complex wines going from strength to strength. Winegrowers are pushing the boundaries in the vineyard and cellar with stellar results. Wine writers in Forbes, Decanter, James Suckling, and the New York Times have been singing the praises of FLX Riesling. Check it out with Bob Madill, CS, WSET 3, AWS CWJM. Taste the wines, explore development in vineyards and cellars, and take a deep dive into the world of FLX Riesling. Bob Madill has extensive wine industry experience as a winemaker, winery owner, Certified AWS Wine Judge with Merit, has taught AWS Y2 wine judge training for years, has international wine judging experience and has lived and worked in the wine industry in Niagara, Canada and the Finger Lakes, NY. Bob leads wine tours for professionals to classic European wine regions and is a member of the Board for the New York Wine and Grape Foundation and Chair of the Promotions Committee.
Session E2
Title: Pinot Noir: A Comparison of the Top Three Pinot Noir Regions in the World
Presenter: Annette Schiller, Owner, ombiasy Wine Tours
Description: Pinot Noir is one of the most difficult and temperamental grapes to grow, but the effort is worth it, because this varietal expresses site, climate and vintage better than any other red grape in the world. In this exciting presentation, you’ll learn more about this fantastic wine and have the opportunity to experience and compare wines from the three largest Pinot Noir growing regions in the world. You’ll sample a total of six Pinot Noirs from Burgundy, (# 1 world-wide), Oregon, (#2 world-wide), and Germany, (#3 world-wide). You’ll leave this session with a new-found understanding and appreciation for the character, diversity and charm of Pinot Noir.
Session E3
Title: New World, Old World. Two Terroirs, One Winemaker
Presenter: Michael Shaps, Owner/Winemaker, Michael Shaps Wineworks/Winery
Fee: $25 extra fee
Description: From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the golden slopes of Burgundy, international winemaker Michael Shaps will lead a tasting and discussion, talking about the viticultural and winemaking differences and his life as a grower and winemaker on both sides of the Atlantic. Michael originally studied at the Lycée Viticole de Beaune in 1990 and worked for two years in Puligny-Montrachet prior to establishing himself as one of the leaders in the modern Virginia wine industry over the past 30 years. Michael returned to Burgundy to establish Maison Shaps in Meursault in 2005 and has been producing Côte de Beaune wines from his 4 hectares of vines for the past twenty years. Michael will lead a seminar filled with his winemaking experiences and stories about what makes these two regions so challenging and rewarding as a winegrower. He will discuss the viticultural differences, the winemaking styles and the two different wine cultures that he’s been involved in over the past 35 years. We will taste six wines, three from each region that highlight Michael’s favorite expressions of these regions.
Session E4
Title: High Elevation, Bold Innovation: Exploring Colorado Wines
Presenter: Cassidee Shull, Exec. Dir. Colorado Association for Viticulture and Enology, Jenne Baldwin-Eaton, Winemaker
Description: This dynamic session offers an immersive exploration of Colorado wine, blending storytelling, technical insight, and a curated tasting experience. Attendees will learn how Colorado’s high-elevation, climatic challenges, ambitious producers, and evolving wine regions are shaping a bold new frontier in American winemaking. The session kicks off with an overview of the state’s wine history and AVAs, paired with insights into its thriving agritourism scene. Two rounds of guided tastings will feature six wines that showcase the state’s unique terroir and innovative winemaking approaches. Along the way, presenters will highlight the strengths and challenges of the local industry, spotlight current innovations, and introduce the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE), the state’s leading organization supporting grape growers and winemakers through education, advocacy, and events. Participants will leave with a deeper appreciation of Colorado wine, ideas for future travel, and resources for continued exploration.
Session E5
Title: Sweet, Savory, and Surprising? Pillitteri’s Icewines and Cool-Climate Classics
Presenter: Jacob Gigliotti, Export Sales, Pillitteri Estates Winery
Description: The Niagara Region is home to some of the most distinctive and exciting winemaking in the world, where extreme conditions and innovative craftsmanship come together to produce wines of exceptional character. This presentation will explore the diversity and artistry of Pillitteri Estates Winery, a family-owned winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake renowned for its mastery of both Icewines and cool-climate table wines while honoring its rich heritage. Niagara’s unique terroir, with its cool climate, diverse soils, and challenging growing season, allows for the creation of wines that balance elegance, freshness, and intensity. In this guided tasting, you will experience a showcase of the region’s versatility through a range of wines that reflect both tradition and innovation: a low-alcohol Vidal Blanc designed for today’s modern wine drinker; a Gewürztraminer-Riesling blend offering aromatic complexity and bright acidity; and bold, yet balanced red wines, with a focus on Cabernet Franc—concluding with rare and luxurious Icewines that are a testament to the dedication and skill required to harness Niagara’s extreme winters. Prepare to discover wines that are sweet, savory, and full of surprises, each a reflection of the extraordinary region they call home.
Session E6
Title: 1er Cru Wines of Austria
Presenter: Klaus Wittauer, Founder, KW Selection Wines
Description: In 2023, after 10 years of careful study and assessment, Austria implemented a vineyard classification system to further promote the development and growth of their wine industry. This is the first successful implementation of a new vineyard classification system in a wine-growing country in 100 years. Join premier Austrian wine educator and importer Klaus Wittauer, as he shares details about Austrian wine and the innovative changes the industry has implemented. You’ll also get to taste at least six fantastic wines from top Austrian producers, many of which have achieved the 1er Cru designation in the new classification system. These will include Gruner Veltliner, Riesling and Pinot Noirs that truly reflect the centuries of wine culture and excellence that come from Austria.
Session E7
Title: Wines of Macedonia
Presenter: Pere Stojanovski, Owner, Fine Wines
Description: Sample the finest selection of wines imported directly from the rich soils of Macedonia. Each bottle is meticulously crafted by passionate winemakers who honor proven traditions, resulting in a symphony of aromas and tastes that delight the senses…..you will be transported to Macedonia with every sip. Established in 2012 in Columbus, Ohio, the AG MAC Import Company was founded by three visionary partners with a mission to bring together the finest wines from Macedonia and all Balkan countries, showcasing them to wine consumers in the USA, with a focus on unique wines, carefully selected from the best wine producers in the region.
11:00 am – 12:15 pm Sessions F
Session F
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Session F1
Title: Wines of Piedmont
Presenter: Lee Schlesinger, Vice President, Winesellers, Ltd. Importing
Description: In this session, we will explore the history of Piedmont and what makes this place so unique and ideal for wine making. Through our exploration of great varieties and terroir, we will have a deeper appreciation of the diversity and quality of the region.
Session F2
Title: The New Gallo—Not Just Hearty Burgundy Anymore
Presenter: Joel Peterson, Winemaker, Once and Future Wines
Description: Ninety-two years after its humble founding by brothers Ernest & Julio Gallo, this family-owned wine powerhouse now owns almost 100 different brands across the entire spectrum of wine categories. This presentation explores Gallo’s top-end brands that are exceptionally interesting and high quality. They are the antithesis of the jug wines that Gallo originally was famous for. Joel Peterson, the founder of Ravenswood, which Gallo bought in 2021 from Constellation Brands, will lead this discussion and tasting of some of Gallo’s highest quality wines. He will also share his recent experiences consulting with Gallo as they revive the Ravenswood brand, which had languished under Constellation.
Session F3
Title: Uncorking South Africa: A Pinotage Discovery Tasting
Presenter: John Sporing, CEO/Founder, A Life Well Drunk
Description: Join us for a tasting experience designed to introduce you to the unique and captivating flavors of Pinotage, South Africa’s signature red grape. This session is perfect for curious wine drinkers eager to explore something new and discover the rich history and bold character of this distinctive varietal. We’ll journey to the sun-drenched vineyards of South Africa, uncovering the story behind Pinotage–a grape born and bred in this beautiful land. By the end of this session, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for South African Pinotage, the ability to identify key aromas and flavors in Pinotage, and confidence in choosing and enjoying Pinotage in the future. Come raise a glass with us and unlock the secrets of South Africa’s beloved Pinotage. We look forward to sharing this exciting wine journey with you!
Session F4
Title: Wine and Mystery: Weaving Murder and Virginia Wine into a Great Read
Presenter: Ellen Crosby, Author, Lucie Morton, Ampelographer, Rick Tagg, Winemaker
Description: Ellen Crosby, is a best-selling author who has developed a cult following among wine lovers for her Virginia Wine Country Mystery series of books (13 so far). While sampling Virginia wines from the area where the books are set (just 30 minutes from the Conference Hotel), Ellen will discuss her books, how she started writing them, and how she weaves winemaking and Virginia history through her stories. In addition, Ellen will be joined by her two wine “experts.” Rick Tagg is the winemaker at Virginia’s award-winning Delaplane Winery, and Lucie Morton is one of the most renowned viticulturists in Virginia and an AWS National Award of Merit recipient. Ellen consults with both of them regularly to be sure that she “gets it right,” with regard to anything related to grapes, winemaking, and vineyards in her books. At the conclusion of this session, Ellen, Rick and Lucie will be available to sign copies of her books for fans who bring them to the conference.
**A local bookseller is signing up as a vendor and will plan to have copies available for purchase!
**Series Overview: Set in the heart of horse and hunt country in the fictitious village of Atoka, Virginia, Lucie Montgomery, returns home from France after her father’s death to take over running the family vineyard on farmland that has belonged to her ancestors since the French and Indian War. What links the series together is a present-day mystery that always intersects with an event from Virginia’s rich, fascinating history—and there is much to draw from, beginning with the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, Prohibition, and beyond.
Session F5
Title: Petit Manseng: A Hidden Gem
Presenter: Chris Pearmund, Founder & Managing Partner, Pearmund Cellars, Mark Ward, Lead Winemaker, Pearmund Cellars
Description: Quickly gaining acclaim and popularity in Virginia and across the country, Petit Manseng, may just be the next “big” thing in the U.S. wine industry. Join Conference premier sponsor Chris Pearmund and winemaker Mark Ward as they explore this increasingly popular white wine varietal that came to the U.S. from southern France. Petit Manseng is the highest-quality varietal from the Manseng family and is best known for it’s amazing capacity to concentrate sugar in the berries while maintaining very high acidity. The grape is particularly well suited to the climate and soils of Virginia and is rapidly overtaking Viognier as the state’s most acclaimed white wine. Petit Manseng’s acidity and bright flavors make it a very versatile wine that can be vinified from bone-dry to dessert-wine levels of sweetness. Mark and Chris will explore this versatility while sharing some of Virginia’s best Petit Mansengs and maybe one or two from France as well.
Session F6
Title: Rethinking Wine—Exploring Innovative Alternatives to Traditional Wines
Presenter: Rob Rudko, Founder/President/Educator, Long Island Wine Academy/Bound East Wine Group, LLC
Description: The wine industry is rapidly evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of consumers. As health-conscious choices and moderation in alcohol consumption become increasingly important to consumers, alternatives to traditional wine are quickly gaining momentum. Non-alcoholic wines, low-alcohol spritzers and innovative wine-based cocktails are not just a passing trend—they’re a response to shifting consumer preferences. They are reshaping modern wine experiences, attracting not just younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z, but also those looking for balance, variety and a more novel approach to drinking wine. Whether looking to enjoy the flavors of wine without alcohol, adventure into botanicals or indulge in a refreshing Frosé, these alternatives provide something for everyone. So join us for this exciting session as we dive into the world of alternatives to traditional wine and discover how the rise of these innovative offerings are reshaping wine experiences for health-conscious consumers, younger generations, and modern enthusiasts who simply seek something different—all without sacrificing the social and sensory pleasures that traditional wine has always provided.
Session F7
Title: Umpqua vs. the World—Comparing Old and New Worlds
Presenter: Stephen Reustle, Owner/Winemaker, Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards
Fee: $35 extra fee
Description: Oregon’s Umpqua Valley… better wines than their European counterparts?
Every wine lover knows about the Willamette Valley and the great Pinot Noir made there. But, how much do you know about the Umpqua Valley, just south of Willamette, where the wines are much more diverse and can go toe-to-toe with their Old World European counterparts? Reustle-Prayer Rock Vineyards owner/winemaker and wine judge, Stephen Reustle, will present wines from the Umpqua Valley’s AVA and compare them “blind” with their European counterparts. Stephen will highlight some of the differences between these Old-World and New-World wines, focusing on four regions and varietals: Austria (Grüner Veltliner), Burgundy (Pinot Noir), Northern Rhone (Syrah), and Spain (Tempranillo). Join Stephen to learn about this unique Oregon AVA and test your skills to see if you can tell which is which and pick a favorite.
12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Awards Luncheon / Best in Class Wine Competition Awards – Fairfax
2:45 pm – 4:00 pm Sessions G
Session G
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Session G1
Title: NY Cabernet Franc Takes the Spotlight
Presenter: Bob Madill, Proprietor, EDU Wine Tours/RJM Consulting
Description: Cabernet Franc is the most widely planted vinifera red grape in New York State. A group of wineries from Long Island, the Hudson Valley and the Finger Lakes have launched a collaboration ‘Cabernet Franc Forward’ and have adopted Cab Franc as the signature grape and wine for New York State. Cab Franc, a New York Broadway headliner! Join sommelier, wine educator Bob Madill and taste ‘Cabernet Franc Forward’ wines and meet the winemakers. We’ll taste and explore their diverse styles, winegrowing terroirs and production techniques. Bob Madill has extensive wine industry experience as a winemaker, winery owner, Certified AWS Wine Judge with Merit, has taught AWS Y2 wine judge training for years, has international wine judging experience and has lived and worked in the wine industry in Niagara, Canada and the Finger Lakes, NY. Bob leads wine tours for professionals to classic European wine regions and is a member of the Board for the New York Wine and Grape Foundation and Chair of the Promotions Committee.
Session G2
Title: Natural Wines
Presenter: Lee Schlesinger, Vice President, Winesellers, Ltd. Importing
Description: Natural wine is an important movement in the wine industry. It is a reaction to globalization and corporate winemaking that has homogenized the entire wine category. While conceptually sound, the resulting wines have been met with mixed reviews–whether orange, Pét-nat or still table wines. We will explore the practical application of natural wine production and taste eight examples of natural wines–Pét-nat, orange as well as traditional white and red wines–from top global winemakers.
Session G3
Title: Murmur and Bite: What you never knew about bubbles
Presenter: Deborah Parker-Wong, Wine Director/Journalist/Lecturer
Description: Bubbles are the hallmark of all sparkling wines. With a better understanding of how they behave, there’s even more enjoyment to be had from this pleasurable wine style. From cork popping, to choice of glassware and the action of bubbles in your glass, we’ll navigate a spectacular line-up of four Champagnes, French méthode ancestrale, traditional method sparkling wine and an extra brut Prosecco. Come for the bubbles, stay for what you didn’t know about serving and enjoying Champagne and sparkling wines. Presented by Deborah Parker Wong and sponsored by Folio Fine Wine Partners.
Session G4
Title: Trailblazing Women of Wine in Virginia
Presenter: Megan Hereford, Co-founder, The Daring Wine & Cider Company
Description: Virginia’s wine history, past and present, is full of trailblazing women who, as growers, winemakers and winery owners forged a path that helped create the Virginia wine industry and that helps sustain and continue to grow it today. While Virginia has a vibrant and thriving group of women winemakers, they still make up just 17% of the Virginia winemaking community. The Virginia Women in Wine (VWW) is a unique industry association focused on increasing those ranks by collaborating with all aspects of the industry to educate and provide opportunities for women to pursue their interest and passion for wine. Join Megan Hereford, co-founder of the Daring Wine Company, and a member of the VWW Board of Directors, as she leads a discussion and tasting with fellow trailblazing Virginia women winemakers as they discuss the past contributions and the future opportunities for Virginia Women in Wine.
Session G5
Title: Indigenous Varietal Wines of Cyprus
Presenter: Aris Kyriakides, Importer/Distributor – Ambeli, LLC
Fee: $20 extra fee
Description: The session will focus on the history of Cyprus in winemaking, the specific geographical area, the wineries, and the indigenous varietals. Aris is originally from Cyprus and has lived in the USA since the mid-80s. He grew up spending summers in his grandparent’s vineyards in an area on the Troodos Mountains in one of 14 villages where the famous Commandaria is made, the dessert wine from Cyprus listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest wine in the world, with 600+ years of continued production, and the first-ever wine to be given a designation of origin. In 2018 Aris started the process of locating some of the best wine makers on the island and doing all the paperwork to start importing Cyprus wines to the USA. He received his 1st shipment in March 2021 and the wines have done amazing since then. All 4 wines entered in the New Orleans International Wine Competition won medals.
Session G6
Title: Grape Sleuthing Through History: Saving the Cynthiana Grape
Presenter: Lucie Morton, Ampelographer
Description: Join Lucie Morton, the world’s preeminent expert on Ampelography, the study and identification of grapevines, based on physical characteristics, as she takes you through her journey to resurrect a highly acclaimed native U.S. grape varietal from extinction. In the mid- to late-1800s, the native Cynthiana grape was very, very popular among wine growers in the Central and Eastern United States. The other popular grape at the time, although less expensive and less prized, was a similar varietal, that today we all know as Norton. After Prohibition, only the Norton grape seemed to have survived and it was believed the Cynthiana grape had disappeared into the mists of history. However, Lucie was confident that the Cynthiana varietal had survived and still existed, but was being mistakenly identified as Norton, it’s similar and now better known “cousin.” Lucie’s investigative quest led her on a fascinating journey deep into historical archives and on a physical trek, criss-crossing the country in search of the elusive grape. As part of this presentation, you’ll get the rare opportunity to taste “true” Cynthiana wine.
Session G7
Title: A Taste of VA Whiskey
Presenter: Dora Oliver, Distributor, Virginia Distillery Company, Amanda Beckwith, Educator, Virginia Distillery Company
Description: Virginia Distillery Co. (VDC), the largest independent producer of American single-malt whisky, proudly celebrates the TTB’s 2025 recognition of the category with live American Single Malt Academy Masterclasses led by Director of Liquid Development Amanda Beckwith. Crafted from premium malted barley and Blue Ridge Mountain spring water, our whisky matures in Virginia’s dynamic climate, gaining depth and complexity. Distilled in Scottish copper pot stills and aged in a unique cask program, VDC’s whisky blends tradition with a distinctly American character.
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm NOW, YOU BE THE JUDGE! – Fairfax
7:30 pm – 10:00 pm Grand Banquet – Grand Dominion
10:00 pm – 12:00 am Music, Dancing and Hospitality Suite Open – Fairfax
Registration opens at the end of June. Deadline to register is October 10, 2025 or when sold out.
Contact us at: memberservice@americanwinesociety.net for more information.
