NY Yankees Legend, Bernie Williams, to Kickoff Millbrook Winery’s Jazz Series; Releases Bernie’s Blend Wines

Growing its partnership with former New York Yankees centerfielder and jazz music icon, Bernie Williams, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery (Millbrook Winery) announces the kick-off of its 2023 Jazz Summer Concert Series on Father’s Day weekend with a performance from Williams and his band on Saturday, June 17 at 7 p.m. Adding to the excitement will be the second release of Bernie’s Blend wines with the return of a dynamic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and the addition of two new wine varieties – a Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, crafted and blended by Williams and Millbrook’s winemaking team, and adorned with label artwork by Williams’ daughter. Tickets to the 2023 Summer Concert Season performances, including Williams’ performance, are now available on the Millbrook Winery website.

What has been extra special for Bernie about teaming up with Millbrook Winery is being able to work closely with his daughter Beatriz Williams, a Brooklyn, New York – based artist, who designed the artwork for the wine labels.

“The cover art was painted by Beatriz and illustrates me superimposed over Cerro Gordo Beach in my hometown of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, where I was born and raised,” said Williams. “Most importantly, we’re able to give back, as a portion of the wine sale proceeds will be donated to the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation’s SupportMusic Coalition, which unites non-profit organizations, schools, and businesses working to assure that music education is supported in communities everywhere, and that all children have the opportunity to learn and grow with music, a cause that’s near and dear to our family.”

The relationship between Millbrook Winery and Williams began during a visit to the winery in 2021, when Williams, a long-time Westchester resident, was captivated by the vineyards and the wine. A chance encounter with the winery's Vice President and General Manager, David Bova, led to a conversation about Williams' background with the New York Yankees and his passions for both jazz music and the artistry of winemaking, which ultimately led to the Bernie’s Blend collaboration. Keen on releasing authentic wine varieties that he is proud of, Williams worked closely with Millbrook Winery’s winemaker, Ian Bearup, to taste-test each of the wine barrels and thoughtfully blend and craft each of the wines.

“Working with a New York professional legend like Bernie Williams is an honor and a privilege,” said David Bova. “It allows us to create something truly special, as well as reinforce our commitment to showcasing the very best of our community and its unique talents. Our partnership with Bernie not only represents the union of two passions - wine and music - but also allows us to bring an unparalleled level of culture and excellence to the Hudson Valley and to share it with our community and visitors alike."

Williams will open Millbrook Winery’s 2023 Jazz Concert Series, returning following rave reviews and more than 300 tickets sold for his performance in 2022. After retiring from the New York Yankees in 2006, Williams went on to pursue a career as a jazz musician after earning a Bachelor of Music degree in jazz performance from the Manhattan School of Music in 2016.

The 2023 Williams-curated wine releases will be available in limited quantities online and at the winery starting the evening of the event. Special edition prints of the bottle artwork can also be purchased beginning the day of the event. For more information on the Bernie Williams Jazz Concert and to purchase tickets, visit: Bernie Williams Jazz - Millbrook Vineyards & Winery (millbrookwine.com)

About Millbrook Winery

Established in 1982 on a former dairy farm in New York's Hudson River Valley, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery produces a range of high-quality wines. Guests are welcome for daily tastings in the restored Dutch barn, and guided tours are offered on weekends. Millbrook Vineyards & Winery was the first vineyard in the Hudson River Region of New York State dedicated exclusively to the production of vinifera grapes. Founded on principles of innovation and experimentation, today, it produces between 13-15,000 cases of wine annually. The 38 acres of vines include plantings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Tocai Friulano, Riesling, Grüner Veltliner, Gamay Noir, and Traminette. In addition to consistently earning top ratings on Trip Advisor, the winery is regularly recognized by publications such as Wine Spectator, The New York Times, and Bon Appetit Magazine.

Guests can visit the winery year-round. It is open daily from 12 pm to 5 pm. For more information, visit MillbrookWine.com or connect with the winery on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.