Behind the Wine: an Austrian adventure with Fran Kysela

We're hosting legendary importer and Master Sommelier Fran Kysela for a dinner showcase of his Austrian wines!

As founder of importing company Kysela Père et Fils and one of just a handful of Master Sommeliers worldwide, Fran Kysela has championed the brilliant, terroir-driven wines of Austria for decades. His passion for Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Zweigelt, and other native varietals has helped put Austria on the map for serious wine lovers.

Next week, Jake and Fran head to Austria to visit eight of Fran’s favorite estates. At this wine dinner, they’ll share tales from the road and pour their top discoveries—wines you won’t find in our shop yet! These wines will, of course, be expertly paired with a multi-course meal from Chef Adam Walker of DinnerCrafters!

If you love Austrian wine, crave new discoveries, or just want to geek out over glass after glass with fellow enthusiasts, this is the dinner for you.

ABOUT FRAN KYSELA

Fran began his wine career in 1980 and earned his Master Sommelier diploma in 1989. In 1994, he founded Kysela Père et Fils, building it into one of America’s leading importers of small-producer, Old World and New World wines. His portfolio includes over 200 producers across 15 countries—many from Austria’s top Grüner Veltliner and Riesling estates.

My philosophy on wine is one based on quality: nothing else matters but the quality of the juice in the bottle. I look for wines that are true to type and classic in their flavors. I prefer wines that are fresh, bright and show good fruit/acid balance. I am not a new oak person, feeling that too much wood obscures true regional character. The wines I select are focused and on target. There is nothing more exciting than tasting a wine that hits the mark. — Fran Kysela

WINES courtesy of Kysela Pére et Fils

To be announced once Jake and Fran return from their trip! Based on the visits they have planned, we're expecting a white wine-heavy list.

PAIRING MENU courtesy of Chef Adam Walker of DinnerCrafters

To be announced! Expect a full meal where every dish is carefully crafted to enhance the wines. No one will leave hungry!

Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions; we will do our best to accommodate!

Reserve your spot now and make it a night to remember!