Exploring Umberto Cesari: A Masterclass in Emilia-Romagna

Discover the soul of Italian winemaking right here in Franklin. The Franklin Wine Club invites you to an exclusive, sit-down educational seminar diving into the prestigious estate of Umberto Cesari.

Exploring Umberto Cesari: A Masterclass in Emilia-Romagna

Nestled in the rolling hills of Castel San Pietro Terme, Umberto Cesari has spent over 60 years perfecting the expression of Emilia-Romagna’s unique terroir. They were pioneers in transforming Sangiovese from a simple table wine into a globally recognized masterpiece. Guided by our guest host, Roger Warner, we will explore how their sun-drenched vineyards, clay soils, and precision blending create wines of incredible structure, elegance, and character.

Why the Franklin Wine Club is Different

Since 2014, the Franklin Wine Club has set itself apart from typical casual wine mixers. We don't just pour wine—we explore it. This is a fully seated, structured educational event designed for those who want to look beyond the label. You'll enjoy a guided sensory evaluation with a dedicated tasting mat, background maps, and detailed technical insights into each bottle.

Event Details

·       Date: Thursday, June 18th

·       Location: Franklin Liquors Wine Room

·       Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

·       Guest Host: Roger Warner

·       Cost: Only $5 to reserve your seat! (The Franklin Wine Club is entirely free to join on Meetup.com, with a nominal $5 fee per event to cover setup and materials).

RSVP IS ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED: Because this is an authentic, sit-down seminar with pre-poured tasting flights, we cannot accommodate walk-ins. You must reserve your seat in advance to secure a placement.

What We'll Explore Together

·       The Pioneer of Sangiovese di Romagna: Learn how Umberto Cesari put this historic region on the international wine map.

·       Terroir & Microclimates: Take a look at the specific soil compositions and climate dynamics that give these wines their signature balance of fruit and savory complexity.

·       The Art of the Blend: Discover how they masterfully harmonize indigenous varieties like Sangiovese and Albana with international grapes.

For a deeper look into the winery's history, sustainable vineyard practices, and beautiful estate, feel free to explore the Umberto Cesari Official Website.

Secure Your Seat Now!

Head over to our Meetup page to join the group for free and RSVP for the evening. Grab your glass, pull up a chair, and let's explore Emilia-Romagna together.

Event Link:  https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/events/315070258/

 

About Roger:

With over 20 years’ experience in the wine industry, in roles including wholesale, retail, and supplier side, Roger Warner has extensive knowledge of wine production, from vineyard to glass. Roger has traveled to vineyards and wineries both within the United States and internationally, learning from growers and winemakers along the way. He is passionate about the wine industry and loves to share his knowledge and experience with consumers.

Franklin Wine Club: Exploring Bodegas Luzón - Thursday, May 28

Join the Franklin Wine Club for an exclusive sit-down educational tasting as we explore the rugged beauty and bold flavors of D.O. Jumilla, Spain. We are honored to host José Requena Abellan, Head of International Sales for the historic Bodegas Luzón, for an evening dedicated to the "soul" of Spanish winemaking.

The Story of Bodegas Luzón Founded in 1841, Bodegas Luzón is one of the most storied producers in the Jumilla region. The winery’s name carries a unique history: its founder, Don José Molina, was a military commander stationed on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. Upon his return to Spain, he named the estate in honor of his journey. For over a century, the winery was famously passed down through the female side of the family, maintaining a legacy of tradition that continues to evolve today. 

Today, Luzón manages 415 hectares of vineyards, including prized plots of 40-year-old, ungrafted, and non-irrigated vines. They are pioneers in environmental stewardship, being the first in their region to produce organic wines and one of only 40 wineries in Spain to hold the "Wineries for Climate Protection" certification.

Meet Our Guest: José Requena Abellan Born and raised in Jumilla, José’s connection to the land began in his grandfather’s Monastrell vineyards. After earning his WSET 3 certification and building a career in the wine trade, he joined Bodegas Luzón in 2026. Now leading their international team, José brings a lifetime of local heritage and professional expertise to our wine room.

The Tasting Experience We will focus on the region’s native superstar: Monastrell. These sun-drenched grapes produce wines of intense color, dark fruit aromas, and sophisticated spice notes. Our exploration will include:

• The unique characteristics of dry-farmed Monastrell.
• Traditional, minimal-intervention winemaking techniques using large wooden barrels.
• A look at how Bodegas Luzón blends tradition with modern sustainability.

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Event Details:

• When: May 28th at 7:00 PM
• Where: Franklin Liquors Wine Room
• RSVP HERE: Exploring Bodegas Luzón, Thu, May 28, 2026, 7:00 PM | Meetup
  
  

The Franklin Wine Club Exploring J. Lohr Winery: A Holiday Tasting & Education Event

Uncork the perfect holiday season with the Franklin Wine Club!

https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/

Join us for an exclusive, sit-down wine tasting and educational experience featuring the critically acclaimed J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, a winery recognized as a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits Magazine.

The Franklin Wine Club Exploring J. Lohr
Winery: A Holiday Tasting & Education Event

Discover limited and exceptional wines that are perfect for holiday gifting and elevating your special occasion meals.

Event Details:

·  Date: Thursday, December 11th

·  Time: 7:00 PM

·  Location: Franklin Liquors Wine Room

Featured Host & Wines:

Our evening will be guided by special guest host, Steve Foohey, the Massachusetts Area Manager for J. Lohr. Steve will lead us through a focused tasting of J. Lohr's most sought-after collections:

·  Cuvée Series: Exploring the pinnacle of J. Lohr's artistry and blending mastery.

·  Vineyard Series: Showcasing the unique terroir of their sustainably grown, family-owned vineyards.

·  Estate Series: Discovering the foundational quality and regional character of their portfolio.

These featured wines offer fantastic ideas for your holiday lists and are specifically chosen for their ability to pair beautifully with festive holiday menus. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the more limited releases from this celebrated California producer!

RSVP IS REQUIRED!

For more information about J. Lohr and to learn more about the winery's legacy of sustainability and quality, please visit: https://www.jlohr.com/

About Steve:

Steve Foohey brings nearly four decades of experience in the wine and spirits industry to every seminar he leads. Currently Area Manager for J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines in Massachusetts, Steve shares the stories and craftsmanship behind one of California’s most respected wineries, helping consumers appreciate the character and quality of J. Lohr wines.

Before joining J. Lohr, Steve spent over 35 years with Brown-Forman Corporation, where he managed sales and marketing for some of the world’s most recognized spirits and wine brands across New England. His leadership earned multiple national awards for market performance and brand development.

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Steve has dedicated his career to building connections through wine education. His approachable style and deep industry knowledge make his seminars both informative and enjoyable, whether for seasoned enthusiasts or those just beginning their wine journey.

RSVP HERE:

https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/events/312141955/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=announce_event&utm_source=link&utm_version=v2&member_id=11498431