Memorable Wines for Special Occasions

From the Wine Cellar of Wendy Heilmann

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Pebble Beach Resorts is located in a celebrated, stunning part of California, less than an hour from one of the most highly regarded wine regions in the United States—the Santa Lucia Highlands.

As Director of Wine and Spirits, I take great pride in being able to showcase these local selections on our wine list, alongside renowned wines from around the world. When creating and updating the wine list for Pebble Beach Resorts, I enjoy handpicking a variety of champagnes and wines that will appeal to our clients who are planning special occasions and celebrations.

Given our strong connections to this spectacular area, we have long felt that Pebble Beach Resorts should have its own brand from the Santa Lucia Highlands, and in 2012, we were able to launch that project. Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji, owner of Miura Wines, asked if I would be interested in having him make a private label wine for Pebble Beach Resorts. Having worked with Emmanuel for years, and recognizing his stellar reputation for being one of the finest in the business, of course I said, “Yes!”

It was an exciting process: tasting through different lots from different vineyards, selecting subsequent barrel samples, determining the final blend and length of time in barrel—and the result was a beautiful Pinot Noir that is exclusive to Pebble Beach Resorts.

Inspired in part by comment cards from our guests, we selected the name “Pebble Beach Memories” for our wine. Memories has received rave reviews, and we have recently transitioned into the second vintage of our wine. We felt a natural progression would be to expand our offering and include a sparkling wine that would lend itself to celebrations of all kinds.

I am thrilled that we have been able to partner with the esteemed Roederer Estate for this wine, which is called Occasions. Since the launch in early 2015, Occasions has met the same applause Memories has enjoyed—including being featured and enjoyed at many Pebble Beach wedding celebrations.

The entire weddings team at Pebble Beach Resorts is focused on a busy weddings season and the opportunity to delight many bridal couples, their families and friends with world-class food, wine, and service. The wine industry is focused on the production of outstanding wines from the beautiful fruit that is arriving. Hand in hand, we are creating unforgettable “occasions” and beautiful “memories” to last a lifetime…

– Wendy Heilmann, Director of Wine and Spirits

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