(Photo Illustration/MetroCreative)

PARKERSBURG — The historic Blennerhassett Hotel is gearing up for an eventful fall season, with a focus on showcasing its rich history, exceptional hospitality and unique dining and drinking experiences.

“We’re really excited to showcase our wine program and provide our guests with an exceptional dining experience,” said in-house sommelier Shawn Smith. “Our wine list features a variety of offerings, with a focus on medium to full-bodied reds that are perfect for the fall season.”

Smith is from the area but moved to the state of Washington a few years back, where he immersed himself in the world of wine production, working for a major vineyard and traveling extensively throughout Europe to further his education.

“I’ve worked harvest in Bordeaux (France), and then I did biodynamic viticultural work over in the Netherlands for a sparkling wine producer,” Smith said.

In 2023, Smith achieved a significant milestone, earning a bachelor’s degree from Bordeaux Sciences Agro, one of the world’s leading institutions for wine and viticulture studies.

“Shawn’s expertise and passion for wine are truly unparalleled,” said Blennerhassett Hotel co-owner Lee Rector. “His dedication to providing our guests with an exceptional dining and drinking experience is evident in every aspect of our beverage program. We’re incredibly fortunate to have him on our team, and we’re excited to showcase his talents to our guests.”

Smith said to celebrate the fall season, the hotel is planning a series of exciting events, including a wine dinner on Oct. 16 which will feature wine pairings curated by Smith.

In addition to the wine dinner, Smith said the hotel is also planning a bourbon tasting event in October, featuring a selection of small-batch bourbons and insights into the history and unique characteristics of each spirit.

“Bourbon is a passion of mine, and I can’t wait to share my knowledge and appreciation for these exceptional spirits with our guests,” Smith said.

The event will take place at the hotel’s 1889 Club where guests can take a step back in time at a hidden speakeasy that transports them to the Prohibition era with its intimate ambiance and carefully curated selection of premium spirits. Located within the historic hotel, the 1889 Club has become a popular destination for those seeking a truly unique and immersive drinking experience.

“The 1889 Club is a real gem,” Rector said. “We wanted to create a space that felt like a true hidden gem, where our guests could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in a bygone era. It’s a place where our guests can escape and indulge in some of the finest bourbons and cocktails around.”

The speakeasy-style bar features a carefully curated selection of hard-to-find and small-batch bourbons, handpicked by Smith.

“We’ve really gone out of our way to source some exceptional bourbons for the 1889 Club,” Smith said. “Our guests can expect to find a selection of 10-year-old small-batch bourbons that offer a truly unique and flavorful experience.”

As the hotel continues to celebrate its 130-year history, the 1889 Club stands as a testament to the property’s commitment to preserving the past while offering modern-day guests an unforgettable experience.

“The 1889 Club is just one of the many ways we’re honoring the Blennerhassett’s rich history and providing our guests with a truly exceptional stay,” Rector said. “We can’t wait to welcome more visitors to this hidden gem and share the magic of the Prohibition era with them.”

For more information on the hotel and upcoming events, visit The Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa Facebook page or the website at theblennerhassett.com.

Douglass Huxley can be reached at dhuxley@newsandsentinel.com