Presenting Our New Wines

For the first time in its century-long history, The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has taken part in the creation of its very own signature wines. The two new wines are: 2005 Grove Park Inn Chardonnay and a 2004 Grove Park Inn Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2005 Grove Park Inn Chardonnay has beautiful tropical fruits and balanced acids with hints of white spice. By itself or paired with foods such as scallops or pasta with pesto, it is a perfect white wine with a wide appeal.

The 2004 Grove Park Inn Cabernet Sauvignon offers dark berried fruit and plum wrapped in an integrated tannic structure. It is smooth and full of hints of cocoa, coffee and mint. Perfect unaccompanied, it also pairs wonderfully with steak, game and lamb.

The Creators
The two new vintage wines are the handiwork of master winemaker, Kerry Damskey of Sonoma County, Ca.; Kevin Schwartz our very own Sommelier; and Jeffrey Piccirillo, CEC, CFBE.

Kerry Damskey has 25 years experience as a winemaker and is recognized on four continents for his acuity and focus in creating brilliant wines. Despite his accolades as a master vintner, Damskey firmly believes wine is made in the vineyard and the winemaker is merely the “midwife” in the artisan process.

Over the past 28 years, Kevin Schwartz has worked in every aspect of the restaurant business. He’s spent the past 15 years at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa with over 12 years in Horizons. Schwartz holds certifications as Certified Food and Beverage Executive, Sommelier and Certified Specialist of Wine.

With 20 years of service to The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa, Jeffrey A. Piccirillo, CEC, CFBE has illustrated dedication and commitment in his numerous positions within the Food & Beverage Department. Currently serving as Executive Director of Food and Beverage, Piccirillo has a rich culinary background that includes past roles as Chef de Cuisine, Chef Tournant as well as Executive Chef of the Resort.