Join us to raise a glass to the coming season of GenPEM events! Enjoy a spring wine tasting and curator chat in our garden and Garden Atrium, complete with light bites and conversation with fellow GenPEM members.

Ruthie Dibble, PEM's Robert N. Shapiro Curator of American Decorative Art, will begin the evening by giving us a curator’s insight into the fabulous recreated dining salon of Cleopatra’s Barge, the first ocean-going yacht made in the United States. Built in Salem in 1816 for George Crowninshield, Jr., the yacht was outfitted to host luxurious parties throughout Crowninshield’s transatlantic voyages. Learn about the glassware he kept onboard, the wines he served to distinguished guests (including Napoleon Bonaparte) and his stop in Madeira, home of some of the world’s most famous fortified wines.

Following the presentation, wine expert and historian Stephen Casscles will guide a tasting of rare small batch wines produced from grape varieties originally developed in Salem in the 19th century. These historic Cape Ann heritage varieties include Salem, Agawam and Merrimac. After the tasting, mingle with your fellow guests over cocktails.

Copies of Casscles’ book Grapes of the Hudson Valley will be available for purchase.

Generation PEM (GenPEM) is a community of museum enthusiasts, artists and collectors. We believe creativity is everywhere and transformative experiences await. Enjoy innovative programming, curator-led tours and pop-up events designed to connect living artists and art lovers.

If you would like to join as a GenPEM member to attend this event and receive invitations to future exhibition openings, tours and special events and programs, as well as complimentary museum admission, please visit pem.org/genpem to purchase an annual membership.