Boston Wine Festival

More than 23 years ago, when Chef Daniel Bruce was one of the country’s most promising young culinary talents, he was lured into the kitchens of Boston’s landmark waterfront hotel, the five star Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf. Almost immediately upon taking the reins, his passion for pairing the flavors in food and wine launched the hotel’s most successful ongoing event, the Boston Wine Festival.  More than twenty-two seasons later, the Festival has evolved into a world renowned series featuring winemakers from some of the world’s best wineries. Through 2 decades of developing the Festival, Daniel has created more than three thousand original dishes, each one designed to perfectly complement the special wine with which it was served.

Daniel has earned the Boston Harbor Hotel a reputation for excellence in its culinary offerings.  Meritage, one of Boston’s few Forbes four star restaurants, is the manifestation of Daniel’s passion for food and wine pairing, a bold restaurant with an innovative menu designed to marry culinary flavors to wine flavors. His latest endeavor, the waterfront Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, celebrates the sea through its breathtaking setting, nautically-influenced design, and menu which reflects the best of the local catch—the freshest seafood prepared in a minimalist yet artful way.

While always focused on the Boston Harbor Hotel, Daniel still has found time to lend his expertise elsewhere and expand his beloved Festival and Meritage to other cities.  In March 2011, the Maison Dupuy Hotel in New Orleans celebrated its 5th season of the French Quarter Wine Festival.  In 2010 Daniel brought the Festival to 2 new cities, Washington D.C. and Berkeley,CA.  The Capital Wine Festival launched at The Fairfax at Embassy Row, and the Claremont Hotel Club & Spa welcomed the Berkeley Wine Festival.  The Festival’s growth and success have also generated new culinary endeavors in the host hotels.  Two years ago Daniel worked on the opening of two new Meritage restaurants, one at the Maison Dupuy and the other at the Claremont. Inspired by Meritage at the Boston Harbor Hotel, these new restaurants similarly celebrate food and wine pairings.

Born and raised in northern New England, Daniel Bruce graduated with honors from Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island, and then traveled to Italy and France for more traditional training. Upon his return to the United States, he began working in New York City at 21, becoming in quick time the youngest executive chef in the history of that legendary restaurant.  Daniel’s dream, however, was to return home to New England and find a place where he could fully develop the many dimensions of his talent and culinary interests.  Now in his 3rd decade at the Boston Harbor Hotel, Daniel has never allowed his time at the hotel to become routine, always finding creative ways to broaden the culinary experience of his restaurants’ patrons and guests of the hotel.  Internationally-renowned, Daniel Bruce has been awarded the title of Vice Consellier Culiniaire, Bailliage de Boston, and he has been honored twice as one of the “Best Hotel Chefs in America” at the James Beard House. In 2009 Daniel was the featured chef at the Celebrity Chefand Winemaker Auction Dinner at the Nantucket Wine Festival, as tribute to two decades of dedication to wine and food education. Additionally, Daniel is an honorary member of Chevalier du Tastevin and has been recognized by Boston magazine as the city’s Best Hotel Chef. Daniel has made numerous live television appearances on national programs such as NBC’s Today and Live with Regis and Kelly. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Johnson & Wales University in 1996.

January 2012

• 
  Beringer Vineyards

  Beringer Vineyards is the oldest continuously run and operating winery in the Napa Valley. Today, more than 130 years since its inception, the winery continues making memorable wines from its great Napa Valley vineyards. Join longtime winemaker, Laurie Hook, as she hosts this dinner featuring the many varietals that they produce, including the Private Reserve chardonnay and cabernet. Located in Napa, Ca.

  http://www.beringer.com/
• 
  Burgess Cellars

  We are honored to have Tom Burgess, the first winemaker to host a dinner at the Boston Wine Festival in 1990, return once more to share estate-produced Napa wines, which he has produced for over 30 years. Tom will offer a wide variety of wines including a special library wine.Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://www.burgesscellars.com/
• 
  Cain Vineyard & Winery

  Situated in a truly spectacular location at the top of Spring Mountain, Cain’s vineyards face north, south, east and west. This mountain vineyard is dedicated to producing only three cabernet blends: Cain Cuvée, Cain Concept and Cain Five. Join Chris Howell, winemaker and general manager, who also is celebrating his 23rd year at the winery. This unforgettable evening will be coupled with a spectacular dinner by Chef Bruce. Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://www.cainfive.com/
• 
  Castello di Ama

  This winery located in the heart of the Chianti Classico historical zone was established in 1972. These D.O.C.G. wines showcase the beauty of the sangiovese grape in the heart of Tuscany. Owner Lorenza Sebasti Pallanti will enthrall us with her passion and love for these world class wines, including their flagship wine Vigneto Bellavista. Located in Tuscany, Italy

  http://www.castellodiama.com/english/index.php
• 
  Chappellet Winery

  Chappellet is a true hillside winery, situated 1200 feet above the floor of Napa Valley. It is one of the first high elevation vineyards built on the philosophy of sustainable farming. Chappellet wines have been sought after by collectors for their intensity and longevity. Join the Chappellet family’s second generation co-owner Cyril Chappellet to taste these wines of great fruit extraction. Located in Napa, CA

  http://www.chappellet.com/
• 
  Donelan Family Wines

  This Sonoma winery concentrates on Rhône varietals focusing on syrah and grenache made in the Old World style. The result is award winning wines from the north coast of California. This is a great opportunity to meet both owner Joe Donelan and winemaker Tyler Thomas as they lead us through their passionate and unique approach to winemaking. Located in Santa Rosa, CA

  http://www.donelanwines.com/journey.html
• 
  Elio Grasso

  Located on the steep slopes on the eastern side of the Barolo appellation in Piedmont, Italy, Elio Grasso produces some of the most outstanding wines of the region including chardonnay, dolcetto, barbera and barolo. Grasso has received the coveted “Tre Bicchiere” award from Gambero Rosso. Elio’s son Gianluca Grasso will present these outstanding wines paired with Chef Bruce’s Northern Italian influenced menu. Located in Piedmont, Italy

  http://www.eliograsso.it/inglese/azienda.htm
• 
  Elk Cove Vineyards

  Elk Cove, making wine since 1977, is one of Oregon’s oldest wineries. Family owned and operated, this winery consistently receives high marks from numerous wine publications. Adam Godlee Campbell, winemaker and owner, will return to celebrate his newest vintages along with a library selection of his pinot trilogy: noir, gris and blanc. Located in Willamette Valley, OR

  http://www.elkcove.com/
• 
  Elyse Winery

  The gregarious Ray Coursen, owner and winemaker, will lead a captivating seminar on his famous zinfandels. Then, during a special dinner, Ray will present a full range of bottles from his Rhône style wine portfolio, which are both approachable and food friendly. Located in Napa, CA

  http://www.elysewinery.com/
• 
  Emmolo Wine Co.

  Two formidable vintners, who happen to be husband and wife, host this fantastic event. Ric Forman is a legend in Napa Valley. His old world style cabernets and chardonnays have always been described as elegant. Cheryl Emmolo produces sauvignon blanc, merlot and syrah at her Rutherford winery, which are some of the best in Napa. All of the wine will be complemented by a signature Chef Bruce four course meal. Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://emmolowines.com/
• 
  Failla Wines

  Founded in 1998 by husband and wife team Ehren Jordan and Anne-Marie Failla, this winery has quickly gained notoriety in the Napa Valley. These wines are produced with minimal intervention and focus on pinot noirs sourced from coastal vineyards. Ehren’s use of small batch fermenting which is then gravity fed into small French barrels, results in elegant and balanced wines. Located in Templeton, CA

  http://www.faillawines.com/
• 
  Forman Vineyard

  Two formidable vintners, who happen to be husband and wife, host this fantastic event. Ric Forman is a legend in Napa Valley. His old world style cabernets and chardonnays have always been described as elegant. Cheryl Emmolo produces sauvignon blanc, merlot and syrah at her Rutherford winery, which are some of the best in Napa. All of the wine will be complemented by a signature Chef Bruce four course meal. Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://formanvineyard.net/
• 
  Grgich Hills Estate

  Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley and founded by legendary winemaker Miljenko “Mike” Grgich, this winery is among the most recognized in California. Daughter Violet Grgich will showcase their richly textured and understated wines, from classic Napa chardonnays, zinfandels and cabernets to the vineyard’s dessert wine Violetta. Seize an opportunity that will delight the most discriminating wine and food aficionados. Located in Rutherford, CA

  http://grgich.com/
• 
  Hess Collection

  Started in 1844, Hess Family Estate is a family owned, fourth generation company. Hess Collection was the family’s first winery, established more than 30 years ago by Donald Hess, on the volcanic slopes of Mt. Veeder, with a commitment to sustainable vineyard practices. Winemaker Dave Guffy will showcase the three tiers of these elegant wines at this premier dinner. Located in Napa, CA

  http://www.hesscollection.com/
• 
  Kamen Estate Wines

  Kamen Estate Wines first appeared as a winner at our signature Battle of the Cabernets dinner in 2005 and again in 2010 at the Rising Stars dinner. Robert Kamen, a larger than life personality, produces not only wonderfully crafted, organically farmed wines but also has had tremendous success as a screenwriter of movies such as The Karate Kid series, The Fifth Element and Taken. Robert will present these wines from the Mayacamas Range in Sonoma including his viognier, sauvignon blanc and winning cabernet. Located in Sonoma, CA

  http://kamenwines.com/
• 
  Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant

  Well known Napa Valley winemaker, Bruce Neyers, has had a long career working with Kermit Lynch. This portfolio of organic French wineries spans the entire country. Experience the wide range of wines from Alsace, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Provence and northern Rhône as Bruce Neyers enthralls us with the history and collection of these remarkable Old World offerings. Located in Berkeley, CA

  http://kermitlynch.com/
• 
  Marc de Grazia

  Marco de Grazia, founder of this distinguished wine company, sources grapes from artisanal producers from more than 80 small estates from 14 Italian wine regions, with emphasis on significant agricultural sites. He will begin with a seminar featuring Terre Nere from the slopes of Mt. Etna and their “cru” style of production. Dinner will include Northern Italian wines from Tuscany, Piedmont and Veneto. Located in Florence, Italy

  http://www.marcdegrazia.com/mdg/ing/azienda.htm
• 
  Markus Huber

  The Huber family has wine growing roots dating back more than 200 years. Markus Huber represents the tenth generation. It is under his leadership that this family winery has gained an international reputation. His wines respect tradition and history intertwined with his own sense of style. Chef Bruce will source Austrian ingredients to add to the authenticity of this Traisental region. Located in Reichesdorf, Trainsental, Austria

  http://www.weingut-huber.at/show_content.php?sid=41&language=en
• 
  Newton Vineyard

  One of the first wineries on Spring Mountain, Newton was founded in 1977. It is widely acclaimed as a California wine trailblazer. This winery produces unfiltered wines with a focus on minimal intervention. Winemaker Chris Millard showcases these wines of distinctive character including their opulent proprietal blend The Puzzle. Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://www.newtonvineyard.com/age-verification/index.php?url=/
• 
  Opus One Winery

  Considered by many to be America’s first growth, Opus One is a legendary winery whose name is synonymous with perfection and harmony. Join fellow forager and winemaker Michael Silacci, along with the inimitable France Posener, for an exquisite dinner with these popular and highly desirable wines from California. Located in Napa, CA

  http://www.opusonewinery.com/
• 
  Page Wine Cellars

  Chris Page, as they showcase their ever growing portfolio. This includes the small production Le Nu Chardonnay and Revolver Wine Company with varietals ranging from sauvignon blanc to their premium meritage blend The Stash. Chef Bruce will create a perfect match from his “stash” of ingredients. Located in Napa, CA

  http://pagewinecellars.com/
• 
  Patz & Hall

  Since the founding of Patz & Hall in early 1988, the winery’s goal has been to produce the finest quality chardonnay and pinot noir in California. Donald Patz returns to present another spectacular display of terroir driven wines produced from the winery’s distinctive vineyard sites throughout California, including its outstanding Pisoni Vineyards Pinot Noir. Located in Sonoma, CA

  http://www.patzhall.com/
• 
  Quarterly Review of Wines

  One of the world’s most influential wine magazines returns with a selection of wines from its 27th annual California “Best of the Best” issue. Richard Elia and Randy Sheahan will host this unique dinner as Chef Daniel Bruce pairs his cuisine with the Grgich Hills Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection and Kathryn Hall Sacrashé Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as other spectacular selections.

  http://www.qrw.com/
• 
  Ramey Wine Cellars

  David Ramey, owner of Ramey Wine Cellars, is known for his big cabernet sauvignons and full bodied chardonnays produced at his Healdsburg, California winery. David has been making great wine for more than two decades in Sonoma and Napa with houses such as Rudd, Dominus and Chalk Hill. This incredible selection will elevate the wine and food experience to a remarkable level. Located in Healdsburg, CA

  http://rameywine.com/
• 
  Revana Family Vineyard

  These boutique, ultra premium cabernets are the inspiration of Dr. Madaiah Revana, who planted vines in 1998 just north of St. Helena. 2010 Winemaker of the Year, Thomas Rivers Brown oversees this estate, which is comprised of nine separate blocks and only nine acres in total. This is a rare opportunity to taste the 2008 and 2005 cabernets, as well as pinots from their sister property, Alexana, in Oregon with Dr. Revana. Located in St. Helena, CA

  http://www.revanawine.com/
• 
  Rising Star: Flanagan Wines

  The popular Rising Stars dinner returns and, for the first time, features two wineries from Sonoma. George Levkoff, founder of George Wine Co. and pinot noir producer of a very small winery in Russian River, will share the stage with Eric Flanagan of Flanagan Vineyards, whose winemaker Philippe Melka produces stunning syrah, chardonnay and cabernets. Together these stars will shine for an unforgettable gathering. Located in Sonoma, CA

  http://flanaganwines.com/
• 
  Rising Star: George Wine Co.

  The popular Rising Stars dinner returns and, for the first time, features two wineries from Sonoma. George Levkoff, founder of George Wine Co. and pinot noir producer of a very small winery in Russian River, will share the stage with Eric Flanagan of Flanagan Vineyards, whose winemaker Philippe Melka produces stunning syrah, chardonnay and cabernets. Together these stars will shine for an unforgettable gathering. Located in Sonoma, CA

  http://www.georgewine.com/
• 
  Robert Foley Vineyards

  Acclaimed winemaker Robert Foley, well known for his Pride Mountain wines, consistently produces a wide range of varietals from Napa and Howell Mountain. This will be a rare treat beginning with a seminar followed by a dinner, which includes his latest creation The Griffin. Located in Napa, CA

  http://www.robertfoleyvineyards.com/
• 
  Susana Balbo Estate

  Susana Balbo is one of Argentina’s most dynamic winemakers and the only person to serve two terms as President of Wines of Argentina. She returns to the Festival after five years to present her newest wines. Critically praised for their value as well as their quality, these wines typify the Mendoza area from where they are produced at her winery, Dominio del Plata. Located in Mendoza, Argentina

  http://www.dominiodelplata.com.ar/
• 
  Thackrey Wine & Co.

  Sean Thackrey brings the Festival to its close with a flourish. Sean sources his grapes from Marin, Napa and Mendocino counties. His unusual approach of letting his grapes “rest” at least 24 hours, outside, under the stars is well known and is one of many approaches that sets him apart from other winemakers. The wines, named after constellations, utilize many grape varietals from cabernets and sirah to unnamed field blends. This will be a fantastic finale with many insights shared. Located in Bolinas, CA

  http://www.wine-maker.net/
• 
  The Telmo Rodriguez Wine Co.

  Telmo Rodriguez is one of Spain’s pioneer winemakers, advocating for use of indigenous grape varietals in their native regions. All of Telmo’s vineyards are bio-dynamically farmed and are exclusively bush-trained in the traditional Spanish method. Experience the wide range of flavors and grape varietals within his portfolio as he takes us on a journey through the regions of Spain. Located in Laciego, Alava, Spain

  http://telmorodriguez.com/
• 
  Trimbach

  Trimbach has been producing brilliant wines since 1626. The heritage of the winery has been passed on from father to son for twelve generations, developing into one of the greatest wine houses of Alsace, France. The magniloquent Jean Trimbach will entertain and enlighten all. Sample the pleasures of the finest wines from Alsace, including a tribute to the first year of the Festival with his 1989 Clos Ste. Hune Vendanges Tardives ‘Hors Choix’. Located in Alsace, France

  http://www.maison-trimbach.com/gb/trimbach-estate.html
• 
  Turley Wine Cellars

  Founded in 1993 by Larry Turley, Turley Wine Cellars has developed a cult following for their rich and concentrated, single-vineyard zinfandels and petite syrahs. Enjoy a rare opportunity to savor these spectacular wines as winemaker Ehren Jordan returns to host his second dinner of the season. Located in Templeton, CA

  http://www.turleywinecellars.com/
• 
  Wagner Family of Wines

  Joseph Wagner presents the entire portfolio from this influential fifth generation, family-produced winery. From their Conundrums, and Mer Soleil chardonnay, their Belle Glos and Meiomi pinot noirs, to their prominent Caymus cabernets, these wines continue to gain a reputation for quality, as well as consistency which few can match. Located in Napa, CA

  http://wagnerfamilyofwines.com/

Toll Free 1-866-660-WINE or Local 617-330-9355

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