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Chris Pittenger. Winemaker of Limerick Lane Cellars - A Sip, Sign & Support


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Join us at DRINK for an evening that blends the art of world-class winemaking with a commitment to our local community. On February 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, we are thrilled to host Chris Pittenger, the visionary winemaker behind the iconic Limerick Lane Cellars, for an intimate Sip, Sign, and Support event benefiting the Frankie Lemmon School. Presale Tickets can be purchased here ( https://square.link/u/ceuS5dLc ) for $10, they will be $20 the day of the event.

The Man Behind the Bottle: Chris Pittenger
Wine is more than a beverage; it is a narrative of the land and the hands that tend it. Chris Pittenger’s journey to the helm of Limerick Lane is a masterclass in curiosity and craft.

From his early days at the legendary Wally’s in L.A. to refining his palate as a sommelier in the Tetons, Chris has spent decades absorbing the nuances of the world’s greatest regions. His technical prowess was forged under industry titans like Helen Turley at Marcassin and through years of working with the historic old vines of Robert Biale and Williams-Selyem.

Chris brings a "gentle touch" to his winemaking—an old-world sensibility that prioritizes balance, structure, and the story of the vintage over heavy-handed manipulation.

About Limerick Lane Cellars: History in a Glass
Nestled in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley, Limerick Lane is a 30-acre estate defined by its heritage and unique geology.

• The 1910 Block: The heart of the estate features Zinfandel vines planted over a century ago. These ancient, gnarled vines yield fruit of incredible depth and complexity.

• A Rhone Renaissance: While famous for Zinfandel, Chris has utilized his expertise to champion Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache, grown in the estate's rocky, well-drained soils.

• Minimal Intervention: The philosophy is simple: let the vineyard speak. By using sustainable farming and a light hand in the cellar, Limerick Lane produces wines that are elegant, precise, and deeply evocative of their Sonoma home.

Experience the Connection at DRINK
DRINK isn't just a wine shop; it's a "small wine society" in the heart of Raleigh. Founded by "The Somm and The Mom" (Cameron and Sandy Bridger), DRINK was born from a desire to share small-production, family-owned wines that have a soul.

This event offers a rare opportunity to move beyond the label. In our intimate tasting space, you won't just taste the wine—you’ll have direct access to the man who crafted it.

• Intimate Access: Ask Chris about the 2026 harvest, his time in the cellar with Helen Turley, or the unique "Rocks & Fog" terroir of the Russian River.
• Sip & Sign: Have your favorite bottles of Limerick Lane signed by Chris—perfect for your cellar or as a thoughtful gift
• Support with Every Pour: A portion of the evening's proceeds will support the Frankie Lemmon School, an inclusive developmental preschool that has been a pillar of the Raleigh community for over 50 years.

Event Details
• When: February 6, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: DRINK Raleigh | 215-A Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC
• Highlight: A personal meet-and-greet and bottle signing with Winemaker Chris Pittenger.