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An Unforgettable Tasting at Arterra Winery

Published On 3/2/2026

Somm Circle members were treated to an exceptional afternoon at Arterra Winery, where owner and winemaker Jason Murray opened his cellar doors for an intimate tour and tasting. A small, family-run operation rooted in a deep respect for the land, Arterra is a testament to what thoughtful, minimalist winemaking can achieve right here in Northern Virginia.

Jason walked guests through his philosophy of letting the terroir speak for itself, explaining how specific grape varieties thrive in the region's unique climate and why he lets that natural character guide his craft rather than overpower it. His passion for the place and the process was evident in every glass.

The standout? A special off-menu pour of his Roussanne — a crowd favorite that had everyone reaching for a second taste.

If you missed this event, do yourself a favor and put Arterra Winery on your list. It's the kind of place — and the kind of winemaker — that reminds you why ou fell in love with wine in the first place.

Published On 2/1/2026

Despite frigid temperatures and an unexpected remote format, Somm Circle's Ukrainian wine tasting proved that great wine and meaningful stories can warm even the coldest winter evening.

The event, held at the distinguished DACOR Bacon House in downtown Washington, DC, brought together wine enthusiasts for an exploration of Ukraine's emerging wine scene. Though SPYRT Worldwide Founder Sam Lerman was unable to attend in person due to illness, his virtual presence added an intimate touch as he shared the compelling story behind his mission to bring Ukrainian wines to American tables.

Guests sampled six distinctive wines that showcased Ukraine's winemaking potential. Three expressions of Telti-Kuruk, a native Ukrainian grape variety that offered attendees a taste of the country's indigenous viticulture.Three selections from different lines of SHABO wines, demonstrating the range and quality of Ukrainian red wine production.

Here's to many more memorable Somm Circle gatherings ahead.

Published On 11/30/2025

Somm Circle's November 23rd tasting at Pearmund Cellars was far more than just a wine tasting—it was a masterclass in Virginia winemaking. Hosted by owner Chris Pearmund himself in the atmospheric barrel room, the experience offered both exceptional wines and invaluable insights into the region's viticultural heritage.

We sampled six thoughtfully selected Pearmund wines, with standouts including their old vine Chardonnay and a special treat: their port-style wine. But what truly elevated the evening was Chris's knowledge and passion for Virginia wine. He walked us through the history of Pearmund Cellars, home to Virginia's oldest vines, and painted a fascinating picture of how winemaking has evolved in the Commonwealth.

The barrel room setting added a wonderful ambience to the tasting, making us feel truly immersed in the winemaking process. By the end of the evening, we left not only having enjoyed excellent wines but having gained a deeper appreciation for Virginia viticulture.

Welcome to Somm Circle!

When DMV Wine Explorers launched in April 2021, the vision was simple: bring people together to share a love of wine. As the meetup group grew, something special began to emerge—while some members enjoyed casual gatherings, others were seeking something deeper. They wanted community.

From that group of wine enthusiasts, a true community took root. Friendships formed over shared bottles. Conversations evolved from "what do you taste?" to "when's our next adventure?" Small gatherings naturally emerged—intimate explorations of different wine regions, deeper dives into varietals and winemaking, and even wine-focused travel.

That's how Somm Circle was born.

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