Sweet Cheeks Winery x Branch Road Farm | 2026 April Winemaker Dinner

A Winemaker Dinner Rooted in Story, Season, and Community

At Sweet Cheeks Winery, everything we do begins with connection. To the land, to each other, and to the stories behind every bottle. This April, we’re honored to bring those elements together once again with a very special collaboration alongside Branch Road Farm.

Join us on Saturday, April 11th, for an unforgettable evening celebrating spring with thoughtful food, expressive wines, and the people who bring it all to life.

This dinner is especially meaningful to us, as it’s our first winemaker dinner since 2024, and the only one we’ll host in 2026. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience designed to slow things down, gather together, and share in something intentional.

A Menu Inspired by the Season

Crafted in partnership with Branch Road Farm, this menu highlights the vibrancy of early spring in the Willamette Valley. Fresh herbs, bright acidity, and ingredients grown with care.

First Course | Passed Appetizers in the Barrel Hall

A welcoming start designed to spark conversation and curiosity:

• Caramelized Leek Arancini, Spring Herb Aioli, Chive Blossoms, Pecorino Dust
• Ahi Crudo, Yuzu Champagne Vinaigrette, Spring Pickled Radish, Edible Flowers
• Cucumber Canapé, Lemon Dill Crème Fraîche, Pickled Red Onion, Dill Fronds

Wine Pairing: 2023 Luminary Sparkling

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Second Course | Seated in the Vista Room

A fresh, textural take on a classic:

• Grilled Baby Romaine, Watermelon Radish, Shaved Snap Peas, Fried Capers & Green Garlic Caesar Dressing

Wine Pairing: 2024 Estate Dry Riesling

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Third Course

A true expression of the season:

• Roasted Asparagus, Nasturtium Vinaigrette, Cultured Lemon Cream, Hazelnut & Herb Crumb, Nasturtium Flowers

Wine Pairing: 2024 Gamay Noir

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Fourth Course

A rich and grounding centerpiece, with a thoughtful vegetarian option:

• Braised Bison Short Ribs, Red Wine Reduction with Sweet Cheeks 2022 Pebblestone Vineyard Syrah, Creamy Polenta, Oregon Smokey Blue, Herb Gremolata, Spring Amaranth
• Vegetarian: Oregon Mushroom, Leek & Ricotta Ravioli with Creamy Leek Parmesan Sauce & Fresh Herbs

Wine Pairing: 2021 Quail Run Vineyard Petite Sirah

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Fifth Course | Dessert

A layered, garden-inspired finish:

• Chocolate Ganache with Garden Sorrel Ice Cream, Black Cocoa Cake Crumble, Candied Cacao Nibs, Red Sorrel Shoots

Wine Pairing: 2022 Pebblestone Vineyard Syrah

More Than a Dinner
What makes this evening truly special isn’t just what’s on the plate or in the glass; it’s the opportunity to hear the stories behind it all.

From the vineyard to the farm, this is a chance to connect directly with the people, practices, and purpose that shape each course and pairing. You’ll hear firsthand how the wines were crafted, how the ingredients were grown, and why this collaboration matters.

It’s a reflection of what we believe in most: that food and wine are meant to bring people together, to share, to learn, and to create lasting memories.