Bernie Williams Jazz Concert

Back by popular demand, former New York Yankees centerfielder and jazz music icon, Bernie Williams and his Band of Friends will play in the Vineyard again this year! We have a great opening act by renowned jazz pianist Larry Ham to kick off the concert at 6pm. Building on past vintages of a custom wine blended by Williams and Millbrook Winery’s head winemaker, Ian Bearup, a third vintage of Bernie’s Blend red wine will debut the evening of the concert. The dynamic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc will once again be adorned by custom artwork created by Williams’ daughter, Brooklyn-based artist Beatriz Williams. The label artwork depicts a still-life of some of her father’s favorite things – baseball, music, and wine – and signed prints of the artwork will be for sale at the Winery the evening of the concert.

After retiring from the New York Yankees in 2006, Williams earned a Bachelor of Music degree in jazz performance from the Manhattan School of Music and has enjoyed a successful second act as a jazz musician. Passionate about giving back to the arts, a portion of all Bernie’s Blend wine sale proceeds will be donated to the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation’s SupportMusic Coalition, which unites non-profit organizations, schools and businesses, ensuring that music education is supported in communities everywhere. The NAMM Foundation, a cause near and dear to the Williams family, frequently supports local music programs and school districts throughout the Hudson Valley community.

“Blending my passion for wine and jazz music, and my daughter’s artistic talent, makes our partnership with Millbrook Winery incredibly fulfilling,” said Williams. “And to do so while supporting the NAMM Foundation and its essential support of music education programs has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.”

During a visit to Millbrook Winery in 2021, Williams was captivated by the vineyards and the wine. A chance encounter with the winery's Vice President and General Manager, David Bova, led to a conversation about Williams' background with the New York Yankees and his affinity for jazz music and the artistry of winemaking, ultimately leading to the fruitful partnership. Each year since, Williams has worked closely with Ian Bearup, to taste-test each of the wine barrels and thoughtfully blend and craft each of the wines.

“Bernie and I share a respect for the craft of winemaking,” expressed Bearup. “Each year our collaboration deepens resulting in an exceptional and unique wine, which is reflected beautifully in this year’s vintage.”

"We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with Bernie Williams and have him take the stage for the third year in a row at Millbrook Winery," said Bova. "Each year, 'Bernie's Blend' captivates our customers – thanks to the wine’s dynamic blend and Beatriz’s stunning label artwork – and we’re confident this year’s vintage will do the same.”

The concert will kick off at 6:00 PM with an opening act by local favorite and jazz pianist, Larry Ham.
Bernie and His Band of Friends will go on stage around 7:00pm.

VIP Ticket includes: Terrace Seating, Special Bernie's Blend Bottle of Wine and Photo Meet and Greet with Bernie Williams.
Also includes an open wine bar.
$250 per person. Limited to 51 VIPs

VIP Lawn Ticket Includes: Special Lawn Seating, Special Bernie's Blend Bottle of Wine and Photo Meet and Greet with Bernie Williams.
Also includes an open wine bar.
$250 per person. Limited to 20 Lawn VIPs

Lawn Seating includes: Seating on the lawn or at a picnic table. Bring your own lawn chair for seating on the lawn. Picnic tales are currently sold out.  
$60 per person.

Food trucks will be on site for food service and wine will be available by the glass or bottle.
Bernie's Blend wine will be available for purchase while supplies last.