Sprouting from a lively conversation down in our Fellows Lounge last year, CLS Wine Club originated with the hopes of bringing our members’ love for literacy and wine together. Our gracious hosts—each hailing from storied outings and clubs centered around the complexities of wine—have agreed to share wit and wisdom twice a year. Special thanks to Jerry Mitchell, who we have named the “Wine Intellect,” and Tim Cantopher, who shares knowledge as “Taste Master.”
In addition, we have partnered with the renowned expert Justin Coleman of Monarch Wines and for this special evening of tasting and access to unique vineyards and small-production varietals. This season’s theme is Alsace Whites featuring varietals such as Rieslings (on the dryer side), Gewürztraminers, Pinot Blancs, and Gruner Veltliners.
Seating is limited in order to host a conversation-style wine tasting where the experts will walk us through four specifically chosen bottles and dissect the nuance associated with each. Part of participating in the wine club is the opportunity to purchase wines that would otherwise not be available at retail. Because these wines are available in such limited quantities to start with, we must secure them ahead of time, therefore your ticket will include one of each bottles to take home (Avg $35/bottle), as part of the overall ticket price. Each ticket includes your attendance to the event in addition to the four bottles.
About Monarch and Justin Coleman
Years of selecting wines for some of NYC’s favorite spots (Balthazar, Commerce, Morandi, The Mark) have helped Justin (owner and propietor of Monarch Wines) cultivate strong relationships with both European and American winemakers, importers, and distributors. From lugging bottles to creating beverage programs, to managing operations, Justin has worked with some of the most exalted names in the business. Seeking a slower pace of life for his young family at the time (wife, Sarah, and eldest daughter, Fia), Justin headed south to Charleston in 2013, landing at The Ordinary as General Manager. At The Ordinary, Justin fostered an appreciation for, and understanding of, the community in Charleston. Monarch Wine Merchants opened in 2017, filling a void in the market at the time for a true neighborhood wine shop, focused on wine and only wine. Delivering the highest level of customer service has become a hallmark of the shop. Justin is forever passionate about keeping the shelves well-stocked at the brick and mortar, while also sourcing highly allocated wines for both local clients and those further afield.
There are two ticket options available:
*Single $285 // $145 ticket price + $140 wine price (4 bottles to take home)
*Couple $430 // $290 ticket price + $140 wine price (4 bottles to take home)