Wine Poetic: Václav Havel

Wine Poetic is where the worlds of wine, spirits, poetry, and history converge. This integrative workshop series, cleverly named as a play on words that reflects the deep connections between these elements, was co-created by Jackie Braje of The Poetry Society of New York and Darby Wagner, founder of GNOSES and a writer + sommelière. The series focuses on site-specific wines (and other spirits/ancestral libations) and poetry, explored through a historical and poetic lens.

In each session, we delve into the life and work of a significant poet—whether from the past or present—while pairing their work with a curated selection of wines and/or spirits from the poet’s country of origin.

(We highly encourage you to opt-in to the tasting flight for the full experience!)

By experiencing these two art forms in tandem, we invite participants to not only understand their shared emotional resonance but to feel it on a deeper level.

The featured beverages will be unveiled the night before the event. Please note that drinks are not included in the ticket cost.

For our next Wine Poetic installment, PSNY & GNOSES are thrilled to partner with Anaïs to present the work of one of Czechia’s most iconic playwrights, political thinkers, and dissident voices: Václav Havel. Expect an evening of captivating prose and revolutionary ideas, paired with wines that reflect the spirit and history of Czech winemaking.

The program will include:

• A conversational presentation and discussion on the featured wine and winemaker, exploring the invisible threads connecting this particular wine to the poetry of the evening.
• An exploration of Czechia's prominence on the global wine stage, led by Darby Wagner.
• A deep dive into the life and work of Václav Havel, led by Emi Bergquist.
• Selected readings and generative writing exercises.

Please bring a journal and writing utensil!

Anaïs offers a tasting flight for $30, so you can taste all 3 featured wines. Single glasses will also be available. Wines will be revealed via email the night before the workshop! Please note that wine is not included in the ticket fee, however, you can opt-in to the tasting during the checkout process.

ADA: There is a small step up to the restaurant, but otherwise, it is all on one level.

Anaïs also has a sister restaurant, Rucola, just down the street for those interested in dining beforehand. Light bar fare will be available at Anaïs during the event.

Host or Publisher The Poetry Society of New York