Wine Poetic: Paul Monette

​Wine Poetic is where the worlds of wine, spirits, poetry, and history converge. This immersive symposium invites participants to delve into the life and works of a noteworthy poet while tasting a curated selection of site-specific wines (and occasionally spirits & other ancestral libations) from the poet's country of origin.

​Selected readings bleed into mini lectures, which segue into guided tastings and generative writing exercises, all of which spark rousing discussions and incredible poetry to be written and felt in equal measure. Every gathering is an opportunity to hone one's craft, uncover new histories, enliven the palate, and redefine the poetic experience - all within a supportive community.

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For our next Wine Poetic installment, PSNY & GNOSES present the life and work of prolific poet, memoirist, and AIDS activist Paul Monette—a fierce and tender voice of queer resistance in 1980s California.

The program will include:

• A deep dive into the life, loves, and literary legacy of Paul Monette, led by writer and educator Tova Greene.
• A brief history of the AIDS crisis in California, co-presented with , a nonprofit providing HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and advocacy.
• A guided tasting of the evening’s featured wine, plus a mini-lecture on California’s winemaking prowess, led by writer and sommelier Darby Wagner ().

• ​Discussion questions that explore the (in)visible threads between the selected beverages, poet, country, and spontaneous poetics of the evening.
• ​Selected readings and generative writing exercises, plus a chance to be a part of the !

​Please bring a journal, a writing utensil, and an open spirit!

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​ADA NOTICE: 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.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:

​In 2025, by purchasing a ticket to Wine Poetic, you agree to opting-in to the wine tasting component of this class. This is a decision we've made to improve the cohesiveness of this workshop and create a more immersive experience on a collective level. Our venue partner, , will collect payment for the tasting ($20) upon arrival - so we ask that you please have a card ready for them to swipe when you arrive. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation! P.S. Be sure to look out for an email the night before the workshop where the featured wines/beverages will be unveiled !

​Wine Poetic was co-created by writer, experience designer, and sommelier, Darby Wagner - founder of GNOSES - and poet, educator, and COO of The Poetry Society of New York, Jackie Braje.

Also check out other Arts events in Brooklyn, Literary Art events in Brooklyn, Workshops in Brooklyn.