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! Building on past vintages of a custom wine blended by Williams and Millbrook Winery’s head winemaker, Ian Bearup, a fourth 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.

As part of a shared commitment to music education and supporting future musicians, Williams and Millbrook Winery will donate $10 from every concert ticket sold, as well as a portion of wine sales that evening, to the music programs at Dutchess Community College (DCC). DCC’s music program offerings are as diverse as they are dynamic, providing a strong academic foundation for students preparing to transfer into four-year programs in performance, education, studio production, music therapy, business, and more. With instruction spanning styles from classical to jazz, the College prepares aspiring musicians, educators, and industry professionals for success. Beyond the classroom, DCC fosters a vibrant musical community through ensemble opportunities, private lessons, and non-credit classes open to learners of all ages and backgrounds. By making high-quality instruction accessible to both degree-seeking students and passionate community members, DCC reflects Williams’ lifelong advocacy for the arts and the winery’s affinity to supporting its local community.

“Returning to Millbrook Winery and being a part of something that blends music, wine and community is always one of the highlights of my summer,” said Williams, on the partnership. “Sharing the stage with the next generation of musicians and supporting music education makes it all the more meaningful to me.”

“The Performing Arts program is thrilled for the chance to have members of the DCC Jazz Ensemble open for the Bernie Williams annual concert at Millbrook Winery on June 28,” said John Howell, assistant professor of music and supervisor of the performing and fine arts music program. “The Jazz Ensemble consists of a wide range of musicians: DCC students and alumni, students from local Dutchess County high schools, and musicians from the community at large, and they welcome new members every semester. We are grateful to both Millbrook Winery and Bernie Williams for giving our students an opportunity to perform."

Coupled with the concert and philanthropic partner, the 2022 vintage of “Bernie’s Blend,” a red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, aged to perfection, along with a newly created 2023 Chardonnay and the 2021 Pinot Noir varietals blended by Williams himself and Millbrook’s Head Winemaker, Ian Bearup, will debut at the evening of the concert. Becoming a family tradition, the wine blends will be adorned by a custom label created by Williams’ daughter, Beatriz Williams, a Brooklyn-New York-based artist. The label artwork features a symbolic guitar held by two sets of hands — one older, one younger — representing the passing of musical knowledge from one generation to the next. This visual pays tribute to Williams’ own journey, inspired by his father, who first taught him to play guitar.

“Working with Bernie on each year’s wine blend is a true reflection of the passion and artistry that winemaking and music share,” said Bearup. “Each vintage of ‘Bernie’s Blend’ is crafted with care and it’s an honor to see our work come together each year, especially as we celebrate our 40 year anniversary this year.” 

Since retiring from the New York Yankees in 2006, Williams embarked on a successful second act as a jazz musician, earning a Bachelor of Music in jazz performance from the Manhattan School of Music. In 2021, a visit to Millbrook Winery sparked an unexpected connection. Captivated by the vineyards and the winemaking process, Williams struck up a conversation with David Bova, the winery's vice president and general manager. Their shared appreciation for baseball, music and the artistry behind winemaking led to a unique and fruitful partnership. Each year since, Williams has collaborated closely with the winery, taste-testing barrels and carefully crafting each vintage with precision and creativity.

The 2025 concert will kick off at 6:00 PM, featuring a special opening act by DCC Music Program students, who will join Williams and his Band of Friends during the second act. Led by director and saxophonist Joe North, the DCC ensemble includes standout performers, including DCC alum Ben Basile (upright bass) and current students Jevaughn Brown (keyboard), Teo Fairbanks (drums), Pedro Velez de Assis (bass), and Brianna Vivace (vocals).

The Concert is rain or shine. Tickets are not mailed, your name will be on the reservation list at check in.

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, bring your own lawn chair for seating on the lawn.  Picnic Tables Sold Out.  $70 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. $10 from every ticket sold will go to benefit the Dutchess Community College Music Program.