Exclusive Wine Tasting with Founding Winemaker Mark LaClair

A Closer Look at the Exclusive Wine Tasting at Seven Birches Winery

If you’re exploring the White Mountains and have a soft spot for wine, the Exclusive Wine Tasting with Founding Winemaker Mark LaClair offers a rare glimpse into the world of boutique winemaking. This experience, priced at $64 per person and lasting about an hour and a half, takes you behind the scenes at Seven Birches Winery in Lincoln, New Hampshire. It’s not just about tasting wine; it’s about connecting with the craft, history, and the man who started it all.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to walk through the cellar with Mark himself, seeing the equipment and the hustle of wine production. Then, instead of the usual tasting flight, you sip four library wines—legacy bottles no longer available to the public but reserved for special occasions like this. Second, the intimate setting and direct access to Mark allow for personalized questions and educational insights that you simply can’t get from a regular tasting room experience.

A potential consideration? Since the tour involves exclusive wines from the library, their availability for purchase is limited to the event, and the selection might not suit all tastes if you’re expecting a broad variety. Also, the experience is limited to your group only, which could be a downside if you prefer larger, more sociable tastings.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about legacy wines and the winemaking process from someone deeply involved in the craft. It’s also ideal if you appreciate personalized attention and enjoy discovering hidden gems that aren’t normally available at wineries.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Sample four rare library wines not open to the general public.
• Personalized Experience: Small-group setting with Mark LaClair, the founding winemaker, offers tailored insights.
• Educational Focus: Learn about grape varieties, wine origins, and production techniques directly from the expert.
• Behind-the-Scenes: Enjoy a brief tour of the cellar, seeing the equipment and wine-making activity firsthand.
• Purchase Discount: Receive a 10% discount on library wine purchases, making this an attractive opportunity for collectors.
• Limited Public Tasting: This is a private experience, ensuring personal interaction and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Review of the Experience

When we first arrive at Seven Birches Winery, the setting itself feels warm and inviting, with a friendly welcome from staff. The tour begins with a quick walk through the cellar, which is remarkably atmospheric—rows of barrels and tanks hint at the meticulous work behind each bottle. Mark LaClair, the winery’s founder, leads the way, sharing insights into the equipment and the daily activity of the winery. For those of us curious about the winemaking process, this glimpse offers valuable context and clarity.

The highlight is the private session in the Birch Room, a cozy space off the tasting room dedicated to this special event. Here, Mark guides a tasting of four library wines—a selection of bottles that are off-limits to the usual tasting experience because they’re part of the winery’s legacy collection. These wines are not only rare but also showcase different stages of the winemaker’s craft, revealing the evolution of the winery’s style over the years.

One thing we loved is Mark’s approachability. His educational insights make the tasting much more than just sipping wine; it becomes a story about the grapes, the land, and the winemaking journey. We found his explanations on grape varieties and wine origins clear and engaging, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner.

Another aspect we appreciated is the opportunity to ask questions. Whether you’re wondering about aging wines, blending techniques, or how the winery sources its grapes, Mark is ready with honest, straightforward answers. The experience isn’t rushed, giving you plenty of time to absorb details or just enjoy the conversation.

The wines themselves are a significant draw. Since they are from the library, you’re tasting bottles that have often been stored for years, giving you a chance to experience wine at different stages of maturity. If you’re a collector or simply love discovering unique expressions, these bottles offer a special value—plus, you can purchase them at a 10% discount.

However, because the tasting is limited in scope—only four wines—and the focus is on library selections, it might not satisfy those looking for a broad, standard tasting flight. Also, snacks aren’t included but are available for purchase if you want to nibble between sips.

The session wraps up back at the main tasting room, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for legacy wines and the craftsmanship behind them. The entire experience is designed to be intimate, educational, and memorable, making it an ideal choice for couples, small groups, or wine aficionados wanting a deeper dive into Seven Birches’ winemaking story.

Why This Experience Offers Great Value

At $64, this tasting offers significantly more than a simple flight. You’re paying for exclusive access to rare wines and a chance to speak directly with the founder, which elevates the experience beyond typical winery visits. The personalized interaction offers educational takeaways that can improve your understanding of wine in general. Plus, the opportunity to buy rare library wines at a discount makes this a smart choice for collectors or gift buyers.

The experience’s private, small-group nature ensures you won’t feel rushed, and you’ll leave with a better understanding of how a boutique winery creates its legacy wines. If you’re someone who values quality over quantity and enjoys stories behind each bottle, this tour is well worth considering.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Exclusive Wine Tasting with Mark LaClair is a deeply rewarding experience for those interested in the craft and history of winemaking. It’s particularly suited for enthusiasts wanting access to rare, off-the-beaten-path wines and looking to deepen their knowledge with expert guidance. The intimate setting and direct dialogue make it an engaging alternative to larger, more commercial tastings.

While it’s not a broad survey of wines, the focus on library bottles offers a unique glimpse into the winery’s evolution, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to the White Mountains. If you’re curious about legacy wines and enjoy conversations with passionate makers, this experience delivers both education and a personal touch that few tastings can match.

Travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic, and educational wine experience will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their itinerary—especially those ready to explore beyond the typical tasting room scene.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy sampling four wines from the winery’s library, a brief walk through the cellar, and a private discussion with Mark LaClair, the founder.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the wines and conversation.

Are snacks included?
Snacks are not included in the experience, but they can be purchased separately at the winery.

Can I buy the library wines?
Yes, you can purchase the library wines at a 10% discount during or after the tasting.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Mark’s explanations are clear and educational, making it accessible whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast.

What is the group size?
This is a private, small-group experience, ensuring personalized attention and a quiet, intimate setting.

Whether you’re a wine lover eager to discover hidden gems or simply looking for a unique activity in the White Mountains, this tour offers a special chance to connect with the art of winemaking and enjoy wines rarely tasted outside the winery’s cellar.