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Launching Wine Country Retreats: A Journey of Connection and Passion

I am thrilled to announce the launch of my exclusive Wine Country Retreats, born from my deep passion for wine and a unique interdisciplinary approach. Perhaps this stems from my anthropology studies in college, but my greatest joy comes from curiosity and making connections. As a local of Beaune, I created these weekend experiences to share the magic of this place with you. After years of dreaming, planning, and working in the wine industry, the wine retreats are finally here. This summer, I am officially launching the Wine Weekend Retreat, followed by another in October.

July 20-22, 2024 and October 5-6, 2024

These retreats are intimate, with only six participants, designed to foster genuine connections with local winemakers, artisans, and farmers while exploring the beautiful town of Beaune, my home.

A Two-and-a-Half Day Experience of Connection

These retreats are all about connection—connection with the landscape, culture, traditions, people, and of course, the wines. When you see the interplay between these elements, you can delve more deeply into your passion for wine or your study of it. I’ve called France home since 2017, starting as a wine student and evolving into a professional. My background is in the arts, and I’m passionate about making connections between disciplines. I believe that immersion, combined with space to reflect and create, is essential in any pursuit, especially wine.

A Dose of Inspiration

I want these weekend wine country retreats to be a potent dose of inspiration, something you can take with you to reflect, create, and grow. When planning these retreats, I focused on how I wanted people to feel before, during, and after the experience. It’s not just about wine education (though that’s part of it); it’s about culture and connections.

Friday Night: Meet and Greet

We kick off the retreat with an aperitif on Friday night, where we will meet and greet each other, share some wines, and talk about the weekend ahead. This is an intimate experience, including exchanges with some locals. You can choose to practice your French (or not). Before you arrive, we will also have a one-on-one exchange to discuss your expectations and interests.

Day One: Wine and Food Immersion

On Saturday, we dive into the connection between wine and food. We’ll visit vineyards, but also farms—beekeepers, cheese producers, orchards, and more. We will enjoy a picnic prepared by a local chef using seasonal and local ingredients, set against breathtaking views. We will visit a small winery to see production, explore the cellar, and taste more wines. Dinner will be served in a private space with music, allowing us to exchange more stories and experiences.

Day Two: Creativity and Wine

Sunday brings another winery visit, this time in a different subregion, where we will also explore important historical sites, making connections to history and tradition. This is a great opportunity to take photographs and discuss wine writing or projects you dream about. We will visit a local artisan to learn about her work and workshop in a famous wine village in Burgundy, followed by a cheese tasting presentation. The retreat concludes with our final dinner together, sharing the moments and memories we’ve created.

I can’t wait to share this incredible journey with you and help you connect deeply with the world of wine, culture, and creativity. Join me for an unforgettable weekend in Beaune!

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3 Comments

  1. May 20, 2024 / 3:04 pm

    I am adding this to my list of experiences I would love to have!

    • Emily Lester
      Author
      May 24, 2024 / 2:57 pm

      I would love to host you. Please let me know if you have any questions or wish to schedule a private experience should the dates not align. Looking forward to welcoming you in Burgundy. – Emily

  2. user-280126
    July 29, 2024 / 7:08 pm

    awesome